Business

The ACH Anachronism: Why the IRS Direct Deposit System is Unfit for the Digital Future of Aid

Published

3 weeks ago

November 10, 2025

The political siren song for immediate, blockchain-powered relief—however hyperbolic the idea of doge checks may be—is forcing a reckoning with the ageing IRS direct deposit infrastructure, a system ill-equipped for instant, mass-scale payments.

The United States government is quietly approaching a major inflexion point in its relationship with its citizens: the speed and method of its financial disbursements. While the current tax season may feature the familiar, reliable process of the IRS direct deposit, the future of federal aid—from universal basic income (UBI) pilots to targeted economic relief—demands a technological leap the Internal Revenue Service is fundamentally unprepared to make. The conflict is straightforward: the political desire for instant, transparent relief directly clashes with a legacy system, the ACH network, which is slow, prone to errors, and structurally resistant to digital innovation. The absurd, yet viral, idea of doge checks—payments tied to volatile digital assets—serves as a useful, if hyperbolic, symbol for the intense political and public pressure to adopt a 21st-century payment infrastructure.

My core argument is this: The future of federal aid hinges on transforming the slow, traditional irs direct deposit relief payment system to handle not just fiat currency, but the inevitable political pushes for digital and crypto distributions, symbolised by the far-fetched idea of doge checks. Failure to act will not only result in massive administrative costs but also undermine the effectiveness of future government interventions, leaving millions of the unbanked behind.

Table of Contents

1: The Reliability and Limitations of Traditional Infrastructure

The sheer scale of the existing IRS direct deposit system is impressive. It can manage billions in tax refunds and, as demonstrated during the pandemic, process emergency IRS direct deposit relief payment disbursements to over 150 million Americans. This process, facilitated by the Automated Clearing House (ACH) network, is a testament to the stability of the traditional U.S. banking system.

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However, its reliability comes with severe limitations. The ACH network operates on a batch-processing schedule, meaning fund transfer is not instantaneous, often taking several business days to move from the Treasury to an individual bank account. During a crisis, this delay is not merely inconvenient; it is economically damaging, as aid meant to be immediate is delayed.

Furthermore, the integrity of the direct deposit irs system relies on having accurate, up-to-date bank information. During the emergency stimulus payouts, the IRS struggled massively with stale bank account numbers, leading to countless payments being rejected and reverted back to slow, fraud-prone paper checks. A significant percentage of Americans remain unbanked or underbanked, forcing them to rely on costly cheque-cashing services that extract value from the very aid the government provides. Any IRS direct deposit relief payment program that relies solely on this legacy mechanism guarantees a continuation of this disparity, benefiting those already securely entrenched in the formal banking system while penalising the most vulnerable.

2: The Crypto and Novel Payment Concept

The idea of doge checks is admittedly a jest—the notion of the U.S. government issuing relief payments tied to a volatile meme coin is financially reckless and legally complex. Yet, the concept serves as a vital lightning rod for a real political and technological shift. The underlying pressure is for speed, transparency, and a system that bypasses the old banking intermediaries.

Digital payment advocates point to the benefits of blockchain technology: instant settlement, immutable records, and programmable money that could, in theory, ensure funds are spent for their intended purpose. The political allure is undeniable: immediate relief hitting digital wallets, eliminating the delays of the traditional IRS direct deposit system. Imagine a UBI pilot where funds are disbursed in real-time, 24/7, without the weekend and holiday delays inherent in the direct deposit IRS process.

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But the challenges of moving beyond the IRS direct deposit relief payment are immense. The IRS currently treats cryptocurrency as property, not currency, for tax purposes. Distributing doge checks or any stablecoin would create immediate, cascading tax complexity for every recipient, requiring the individual to track the value of the digital asset from the moment of receipt until it is spent. This would be a compliance nightmare. Moreover, the security protocols, wallet management, and key custody requirements necessary to protect the government and citizens from hacking, fraud, and lost funds are simply nonexistent within the current IRS direct deposit regulatory framework. The political noise around non-traditional payments is getting louder, but the practical infrastructure is nowhere close to ready.

3: The Path Forward: Digitizing Federal Aid

The solution is not necessarily literal doge checks but rather adopting the spirit of instant digital transfer within the safety of the fiat system. The immediate, achievable goal must be to render the slow, two-to-three-day IRS direct deposit relief payment obsolete.

First, the direct deposit irs system must fully embrace instant payment technologies now available across major banking systems (like FedNow or RTP), allowing funds to clear and settle in seconds, not days. Second, the IRS must partner strategically with regulated digital payment providers and prepaid debit card issuers to provide easy, no-fee digital wallets for the unbanked. The focus must shift from simply gathering bank account numbers to ensuring every eligible citizen has a functional, real-time payment endpoint.

This modernisation effort is not just about speed; it’s about security. The legacy IRS direct deposit system is vulnerable to mass fraud when personal information is compromised. By migrating to modern, tokenised payment methods and leveraging state-of-the-art encryption, the IRS can drastically reduce the risk of fraud while improving service. The demand for instant, transparent funds—the core value proposition embedded within the political hype of doge checks—will not vanish. If the IRS’s direct deposit system doesn’t modernise, it risks becoming a bottleneck that strangles necessary economic aid at the moment of peak crisis.

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Conclusion

The challenge facing federal agencies is profound: to move beyond the analogue, batch-processed reality of the IRS direct deposit system and prepare for a digital-first future. The hyperbolic call for doge checks is a powerful symbol, demonstrating the public’s appetite for immediate, unencumbered funds. That political will, however disruptive, must catalyse change. The failure of the direct deposit IRS to handle the scale and speed of a modern crisis will be more than an administrative delay; it will be an economic and moral failure. The question is whether the inertia of the current system will prevail, or if the demands of future aid will force a rapid, potentially chaotic leap into digital disbursement methods, ensuring that the legacy of the doge checks concept is not a joke but a powerful catalyst for necessary technological evolution.

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Opinion

🌍 The Global Biggest Startup & Tech Events of 2026

Published

4 hours ago

December 3, 2025

Abdul Rahman

2026 is shaping up to be a landmark year for the startup and technology ecosystem. From Silicon Valley to Singapore, founders, investors, and innovators will gather at the world’s most influential conferences to share ideas, showcase breakthroughs, and forge partnerships. Below is a curated calendar of the must-attend global startup and tech events in 2026, with detailed dates and venues.

Table of Contents

📅 January 2026

sTARTUp Day – Tartu, Estonia January 24–26, 2026 A vibrant festival connecting entrepreneurs, investors, and changemakers in Northern Europe.

📅 February 2026

Step Conference – Dubai, UAE February 21–22, 2026 The Middle East’s leading tech festival, spotlighting fintech, AI, and digital media.

📅 March 2026

MWC Barcelona (Mobile World Congress) – Barcelona, Spain March 2–5, 2026 The world’s largest mobile and connectivity event, featuring 4YFN (Four Years From Now) for startups.
START Summit – St. Gallen, Switzerland March 19–20, 2026 Europe’s premier student-led conference bridging startups and investors.
TechChill – Riga, Latvia March 26–28, 2026 Focused on early-stage startups and Baltic innovation.

📅 April 2026

LEAP 2026 – Riyadh, Saudi Arabia April 1–4, 2026 A mega-event spotlighting AI, robotics, and future tech.
Tech.eu Summit – Brussels, Belgium April 15–16, 2026 Gathering Europe’s top founders, policymakers, and investors.
Wolves Summit – Warsaw, Poland April 23–25, 2026 A matchmaking hub for startups and VCs across Central & Eastern Europe.
Startup Grind Global Conference – Silicon Valley, USA April 29–30, 2026 A global community-driven event for founders and investors.

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📅 May 2026

EU-Startups Summit – Barcelona, Spain May 7–8, 2026 Featuring Europe’s hottest scale-ups and venture capitalists.
Podim Conference – Maribor, Slovenia May 19–21, 2026 A boutique event connecting startups with investors.
Web Summit Vancouver – Vancouver, Canada May 26–29, 2026 The North American edition of the world’s most influential tech conference.
ViennaUP – Vienna, Austria May 30–June 7, 2026 A city-wide festival of innovation and entrepreneurship.

📅 June 2026

South Summit – Madrid, Spain June 3–5, 2026 A global meeting point for startups, corporations, and investors.
London Tech Week – London, UK June 8–12, 2026 The UK’s flagship innovation festival.
Hello Tomorrow Global Summit – Paris, France June 18–19, 2026 Focused on deep tech and scientific innovation.
Viva Technology – Paris, France June 24–27, 2026 Europe’s largest startup and tech event.

📅 July–December 2026 Highlights

Startupfest – Montreal, Canada (July 9–12)
TechBBQ – Copenhagen, Denmark (August 27–28)
Bits & Pretzels – Munich, Germany (September 27–29)
TechCrunch Disrupt – San Francisco, USA (October 13–15)
Slush – Helsinki, Finland (November 19–20)
GITEX Global – Dubai, UAE (December 7–11)

✨ Why These Events Matter

Networking Powerhouses: Meet global investors, accelerators, and corporate innovators.
Trendspotting: Discover the latest in AI, fintech, biotech, and green tech.
Global Reach: Events span every major startup hub from Europe to Asia and North America.

Final Word

For founders, investors, and tech enthusiasts, 2026 offers an unparalleled lineup of startup and tech events. Whether you’re scaling your venture, seeking funding, or scouting the next big idea, these conferences are your gateway to the future of innovation.

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Analysis

Your Ultimate Guide to San Diego Small Business Saturday: Where to Shop & How to Make a Difference

Published

4 days ago

November 30, 2025

Abdul Rahman

Get ready for San Diego Small Business Saturday! Discover the unique neighbourhoods and hidden gems where your spending supports the local community. Find your perfect shopping guide and make a real impact. #SDSmallBizSat

There’s a feeling in the air on a perfect, 72-degree November morning in San Diego. It’s not just the gentle coastal breeze or the smell of salt and sage; it’s a buzz of community, a sense of anticipation. While the rest of the country bundles up, we’re lacing up our walking shoes for a day that’s become a cherished local tradition: San Diego Small Business Saturday. This isn’t just about checking names off a list; it’s a celebration of the very things that make our city vibrant, unique, and authentically ours.

Sandwiched between the big-box frenzy of Black Friday and the digital deals of Cyber Monday, Small Business Saturday is a conscious choice. It’s a day to reinvest in the creative spirit of our neighbors, the friends who pour their passion into our communities, and the local entrepreneurs who define our city’s character.

Table of Contents

Why Your San Diego Small Business Saturday Shopping Makes a Real Impact

When you choose to shop local, your dollar works overtime. Studies show that for every $100 spent at a locally-owned business, approximately $68 stays in the San Diego community—circulating through our economy, funding our city services, and supporting our schools. But the impact goes deeper than statistics.

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Your purchase is a vote for a San Diego with personality. It’s what preserves the colorful, walkable character of North Park, keeps the historic charm of Barrio Logan thriving, and ensures our beach communities aren’t overrun by generic chains. You’re not just buying a product; you’re funding a dream, preserving a neighborhood’s soul, and ensuring that the next time you crave a perfectly crafted latte or a one-of-a-kind gift, a unique local spot is there to provide it.

Your Neighborhood Guide to San Diego Small Business Saturday

To maximize your day, we recommend picking one or two neighborhoods to explore deeply. Here’s where to find the heart of San Diego’s small business scene.

1. North Park: The Trendsetter’s Playground

The Vibe: Effortlessly cool, creatively charged, and buzzing with energy. Think craft beer taprooms, indie boutiques, and vibrant street art at every turn.
Perfect For: The design-savvy shopper looking for unique home decor, contemporary fashion, and artisanal goods. It’s a place to see and be seen.
Fictional Spotlight: Mesa Goods
Imagine a sun-drenched space filled with the earthy scents of leather and clay. Mesa Goods is a curator of beautiful, functional wares for the home, all sourced from artisans across the Southwest. Here, you’ll find hand-thrown ceramic mugs, woven textiles, and minimalist furniture that embodies the California-Mexican aesthetic.

2. Ocean Beach: The Free-Spirited Enclave

The Vibe: Unapologetically laid-back, quirky, and nostalgic. OB marches to the beat of its own drum, with a historic pier, a legendary farmer’s market, and a fiercely local mindset.
Perfect For: The bohemian soul, the souvenir hunter seeking something beyond a keychain, and anyone who values sustainability and unique, handcrafted items.
Fictional Spotlight: Coastal Candle Co.
Tucked away on a side street, Coastal Candle Co. captures the essence of San Diego in a jar. Using soy wax and essential oils, the owner crafts candles with scents like “Sunset Cliffs Driftwood,” “OB Sea Salt,” and “Mission Beach Boardwalk.” It’s the perfect way to bring a piece of that ocean serenity back home.

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3. Barrio Logan: The Cultural Heartbeat

The Vibe: A powerful, vibrant, and deeply cultural center. Famous for the iconic Chicano Park murals, Barrio Logan is a hub of artistic innovation, featuring galleries, custom lowrider shops, and authentic eateries.
Perfect For: The art lover and the seeker of truly one-of-a-kind items. Come for the powerful visuals and stay for the incredible finds in family-owned shops and artist collectives.
Fictional Spotlight: CASA Cósmica
This collective artist space and gallery is a treasure trove of creativity. CASA Cósmica features jewelry, prints, clothing, and sculptures from a rotating roster of local Chicano and Latino artists. Every purchase here directly supports a San Diego creator and tells a story of heritage and innovation.

Your Pro-Tips for a Successful San Diego Small Business Saturday

A little planning goes a long way in making your day enjoyable and impactful.

Plan Your Route & Parking: San Diego neighborhoods can get busy. Pick your target area, check for special event parking or public transit options (like the Trolley to Barrio Logan!), and consider ride-sharing.
Look for the Local Seal: Many participating shops will display a “Shop Local San Diego” or “Small Business Saturday” decal in their window. Let that be your guide!
Go Beyond Retail: Multiply your impact by making a day of it. That post-shopping craft beer in North Park or the authentic fish taco in Barrio Logan is just as important as the gift in your bag.
Bring Cash & Patience: While most businesses take cards, having some cash on hand can speed up small transactions and is always appreciated. Remember, you’re not in a warehouse store—savor the personal service and unique experience.
Talk to the Owners: The best part of Small Business Saturday is the human connection. Hear the story behind the product. You’ll leave with more than a purchase; you’ll leave with a memory.

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Let’s Make This the Best San Diego Small Business Saturday Yet!

This November, let’s fill our city with more than just sunshine. Let’s fill it with support, celebration, and community spirit. Your choices, your purchases, and your enthusiasm are what keep the unique character of San Diego alive and thriving.

We want to see your finds! Share your favorite San Diego Small Business Saturday discoveries, tag the local shops you love, and use the hashtag #SDSmallBizSat to inspire your fellow San Diegans. Let’s show the world that our local love is the greatest trend of all.

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Analysis

Denny’s Restaurant Closures: What They Reveal About the Changing Face of American Dining in 2025

Published

4 days ago

November 29, 2025

Abdul Rahman

Table of Contents

Introduction: A Legacy Brand at a Crossroads

For decades, Denny’s has been synonymous with 24/7 breakfasts, late-night coffee refills, and a nostalgic Americana experience. But in 2025, the iconic diner chain is undergoing a dramatic transformation. With up to 90 restaurant closures planned this year, Denny’s is not just downsizing—it’s recalibrating its entire business model.

The Scope of the Closures

Denny’s has already shuttered over 160 locations since 2024, with 70 to 90 more expected to close by the end of 2025. These closures span across underperforming markets, ageing buildings, and locations with expiring leases. The most recent example: the Santa Rosa, California outlet, which closed quietly amid restructuring.

Why Is Denny’s Closing Restaurants?

As a business analyst, several key factors emerge:

Operational Costs: Many Denny’s buildings are decades old, requiring costly renovations.
Lease Expirations: Strategic closures are tied to locations with leases ending in 2025.
Performance Metrics: Low-performing stores are being phased out to improve overall profitability.
Changing Consumer Behavior: Post-pandemic diners prefer delivery, fast-casual formats, and digital-first experiences.
Acquisition Strategy: Denny’s is being acquired for $620 million by TriArtisan Capital Advisors, Treville Capital, and Yadav Enterprises, with plans to take the company private.

Impact on Stakeholders

Franchisees: Must adapt to new ownership and possibly rebrand or relocate.
Employees: Face layoffs or transfers, depending on location viability.
Customers: Lose access to familiar dining spots, especially in suburban and mall-based areas.
Investors: Will receive $6.25 per share in cash once the acquisition closes in Q1 2026.

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Industry-Wide Implications

Denny’s isn’t alone. Chains like IHOP, Applebee’s, and Ruby Tuesday have also scaled back. The closures reflect broader trends:

Rise of Ghost Kitchens: Brands are shifting to delivery-only models.
Gen Z Preferences: Younger diners favor experiential dining and healthier menus.
Tech Disruption: AI-driven ordering, loyalty apps, and dynamic pricing are reshaping the restaurant experience.

Conclusion: Reinvention or Retreat?

Denny’s closures in 2025 aren’t just about trimming fat—they’re about strategic reinvention. As the brand prepares to go private, it faces a pivotal question: Can it modernise without losing its soul? For business analysts, this moment is a case study in legacy brand transformation amid economic and cultural upheaval.

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