In each issue of FIU Business Now, we strive to share information that you and our other readers can use to help meet the opportunities and challenges that arise in the ever-evolving business world. Our cover story in this issue focuses on the many retailers that are rethinking their product-return policies because of the high costs associated with those returns. Our William Hardin Dean, FIU College of Business faculty and alumni experts share insight about how businesses can balance their need to cut costs with customer demands for convenience.

In another feature, we look at how businesses can connect with millions of customers by using emerging conversational AI technology. Our other feature also touches on innovation – insights shared during the annual FIU Business real estate conference, which drew more than 200 industry professionals to campus in the fall of 2023. Learn how developers are preserving South Florida communities through revitalization and multi-use, workforce and affordable housing projects (page 18).

Condominiums are a key part of the region's housing market, but many are not run well. That's why this spring, FIU Business launched a Condominium Board Member Training Certificate Program. We believe this program, the only such university program in Florida, answers the urgent call for empowered and informed condo board members.

Our research section features a study that revealed some firms issue lowball earnings guidance and how that affects stock returns along with another study that found political ideology influences consumers' willingness to purchase imperfect produce.

In our alumni section, you will meet the woman at the top spot at Miami Tunnel, which links mainland Miami to PortMiami; the founders of one of the largest independent accounting firms in the U.S.; and three sisters who work together at a firm their family started 40 years ago.

Finally, we will introduce you to a program that helps to ensure our undergraduate students stay in school and graduate on time. This program would not be possible without the support of our alumni and other donors – so thank you! I hope you enjoy the spring 2024 issue of FIU Business Now.

William Hardin,
Dean, FIU College of Business