Highlights: Government contractors often interact with federal employees while working on projects. This close connection raises a common question: can government contractors give gifts to federal employees? The clear answer is no in almost every situation. Rules on gifts are strict, and breaking them can bring serious penalties for both the contractor and the federal…
Government contracting is often called a game of patience and sometimes luck. But smart contractors know it’s less about crossing your fingers and more about reading the tea leaves of industry trends. If you know where the money is going, you can position yourself to win. If you don’t? Well, let’s just say you might…
Federal contracting is like building a bridge between the government and private companies. The government needs help with things like technology, construction, research, and services. Companies offer their skills and products to meet those needs. But in 2025, building that bridge will become harder. The road is bumpier, the rules are stricter, and the weather…
If your federal business development strategy still revolves around scanning SAM.gov for the next RFP, a seismic shift is underway that you can’t afford to ignore. The quiet revolution of federal category management is accelerating, and with the latest updates to the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Part 8, it’s moving from best practice to a…
U.S. Services Sector Shows No Growth The U.S. services sector, a critical engine of the economy, showed no growth in July, raising concerns about the strength of consumer demand and business momentum. For months, services—from restaurants and hotels to healthcare and transportation—have been driving the recovery, while manufacturing has slowed. However, with the latest data…
A significant development for federal contractor compliance, the Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP) has canceled its planned reduction in force. This decision ensures the continuity of critical oversight and represents a major commitment to upholding federal contractor compliance standards. The National Council of Field Labor Locals has confirmed that employees previously slated for…
Amphenol Corp. will acquire Boston-based Trexon in a $1 billion cash deal, strengthening its defense and harsh environment interconnect portfolio. The acquisition is expected to close in Q4 2025, adding about $290 million in annual sales and boosting earnings in the first year. WALLINGFORD, Conn. – Amphenol Corp. (NYSE: APH) announced Monday it has entered…
The U.S. housing market, which has been red-hot for several years, is showing clear signs of cooling. Recent data from Realtor.com, Zillow, and RE/MAX suggest that inventory is rising, price growth is slowing, and buyers are finding more room to negotiate. After years of pandemic-era frenzied demand, the market appears to be shifting toward balance,…
Government contracting can feel like walking across a field full of hidden explosives. One wrong step — a missed deadline, a misfiled document, a cybersecurity oversight — and boom, you’re dealing with penalties, audits, or worse, losing the contract you worked so hard to win. The good news? With the right systems, a sharp eye…
A Surge in Consumer Confidence After a stretch of sluggish sales and cautious spending, U.S. retail is back in the spotlight with a strong rebound that’s boosting optimism for the broader economy. The latest figures indicate a significant increase in retail sales across multiple categories, including clothing, electronics, home goods, and dining. Analysts credit this…