The Hidden Costs of Tariff Wars: American Taxpayer Burden and an Overseas Sourcing Fiasco
Behind the Scenes at IntelliChain China
Our dedicated employee prepares a shipment in our China office, labeling the box with precision and care. This package is ready to be deployed, showcasing our commitment to streamlined logistics and reliable global operations. At IntelliChain, every detail matters as we ensure your products reach their destination on time and in perfect condition.
Part 1: A Look at the Numbers – Supporting Farmers Amid the Trade Wars
During the Trump administration's tariff war with China, American farmers were caught in the crossfire. Retaliatory tariffs imposed by China led to a steep decline in U.S. agricultural exports, leaving many farmers struggling to make ends meet. To mitigate the damage, the U.S. government introduced massive aid programs funded by taxpayers, distributing over $28 billion in subsidies through the Market Facilitation Program (MFP) from 2018 to 2020. This figure is staggering, equating to almost half of the annual budget for the Department of Agriculture.
While this aid served as a lifeline for farmers, critics argue that it disproportionately benefited large agribusinesses over small family farms and raised questions about the sustainability of such measures. With taxpayers footing the bill, many have asked whether the trade war yielded enough long-term benefits to justify the expense.
Part 2: A Business Client’s Overseas Sourcing Nightmare
A Promising Start on Alibaba
One of IntelliChain Corporation’s clients, a boutique interior design firm based in Texas, sought to source custom wall panels for a flagship office renovation project. The firm turned to Alibaba, a popular online marketplace connecting global buyers with overseas suppliers. After an exhaustive search, the client was impressed by a supplier’s visually stunning product catalog and responsive communication.
The supplier, located in Guangdong Province, China, provided high-quality samples at an attractive price point, creating the impression of a reliable and professional operation. To further ease the client's concerns, the supplier claimed to have worked with several well-known international brands, sharing what appeared to be convincing customer testimonials and photos of their work.
Red Flags Begin to Appear
As negotiations progressed, subtle red flags emerged:
Off-Platform Communication: The supplier requested to switch communications from Alibaba’s messaging system to WeChat, citing faster response times.
Vague Company Details: The supplier’s company name on Alibaba did not match the name on their invoices.
Payment to an Offshore Account: The supplier required a 50% deposit to be wired to a Hong Kong bank account, claiming it was for "tax efficiency."
Despite these warning signs, the client was eager to proceed, hoping to meet their project deadline and save on costs. They transferred the deposit, trusting the supplier's assurances.
The Silence Begins
After the payment was made, communication with the supplier slowed dramatically. Initially, they cited factory delays due to a "busy season." Weeks turned into months, with excuses ranging from supply chain disruptions to COVID-19 outbreaks. Finally, after six months, the supplier went completely silent, leaving the client with no product and no refund.
Part 3: IntelliChain Investigates
Desperate for answers, the client contacted IntelliChain Corporation. Our team immediately launched an investigation, employing a comprehensive approach:
Verification of Business Registration: IntelliChain discovered that the supplier’s listed business registration was invalid and did not match the name provided in the invoice.
Site Visit: A local IntelliChain representative visited the supplier’s address, only to find an empty office space shared by multiple businesses.
Factory Analysis: Using satellite imagery and industry databases, IntelliChain identified that the claimed factory location was actually a residential area with no industrial activity.
Payment Trace: The funds wired to the Hong Kong account were part of a network often flagged for fraudulent activity.
Part 4: Preventing the Scam – IntelliChain’s Due Diligence Services
If the client had used IntelliChain’s services from the outset, the scam could have been avoided. Here’s how:
Factory Verification: IntelliChain would have conducted a physical inspection of the supplier’s factory, confirming their operational legitimacy.
Secure Payment Guidance: We advise clients to use escrow services or Alibaba’s secure payment system to protect deposits and ensure accountability.
Real-Time Tracking: IntelliChain provides ongoing monitoring of supplier activities, ensuring transparency and preventing unexpected delays.
Part 5: Lessons Learned
This experience was a costly but invaluable lesson for the client. It underscored the importance of due diligence when sourcing from overseas suppliers. Cutting corners on verification can lead to significant financial and reputational damage. The client has since implemented IntelliChain’s guidelines, ensuring all future sourcing activities are conducted with maximum transparency and security.
Contact IntelliChain Today
Phone: +1 307-310-5502
Email: connect@intellichainco.com
Address: 306 N Main St. Sheridan, WY 82801
Let IntelliChain be your trusted partner in China, ensuring that every step of your sourcing process is secure and seamless. With our local expertise, we guarantee that your products meet the highest standards of quality, compliance, and safety. By partnering with us, you can focus on scaling your business, knowing that every detail—from factory vetting to logistics—is handled with precision.
Let IntelliChain be your eyes and ears in China, empowering you to bring the best products to market with confidence.
How Trump Tariffs Could Impact the Clothing Industry and a Tale of Overseas Sourcing Gone Wrong
Precision in action: Our dedicated employee is carefully labeling a shipment in our China office, ensuring every package is ready for seamless deployment. It's this attention to detail that keeps our operations running smoothly and our clients satisfied.Precision in action: Our dedicated employee is carefully labeling a shipment in our China office, ensuring every package is ready for seamless deployment. It's this attention to detail that keeps our operations running smoothly and our clients satisfied.
Introduction
The global clothing industry has always been sensitive to economic changes, and with the imposition of tariffs during the Trump administration, the landscape for international sourcing has faced significant challenges. Businesses that rely heavily on imported textiles and garments are grappling with higher costs, disrupted supply chains, and increased competition. This story illustrates how a small fashion boutique in California, struggling with rising tariffs, tried to source custom clothing lines from an overseas supplier—only to discover the hidden dangers of international transactions without proper vetting.
The Sourcing Attempt: A Promising Start
Samantha, the owner of a boutique clothing brand, was already feeling the pinch of the 25% tariff imposed on Chinese-made textiles and garments. To mitigate costs, she decided to find a new supplier offering affordable yet high-quality custom clothing. After browsing Alibaba, she found a company called “Luxe Fabrics & Apparel” that showcased impeccable product samples, glowing reviews, and a promise of competitive pricing.
The supplier’s responsive communication impressed Samantha. They promptly answered her questions about fabric quality, order volumes, and lead times. They even sent her a sample shirt that was not only stylish but well-made, seemingly affirming their claims of excellence.
With tariffs driving up her costs, Samantha felt this partnership was her way out of financial strain.
The Red Flags Begin to Appear
Despite the initial positivity, cracks began to show. The supplier requested a 50% deposit upfront, a common practice in the industry. However, the payment had to be wired to an offshore account in Hong Kong, raising Samantha’s concerns. The supplier assured her this was standard practice for international transactions.
Once the payment was made, Samantha began noticing irregularities:
Communication Shift: The supplier started using WhatsApp instead of Alibaba’s platform, citing "technical issues."
Vague Updates: When asked for production progress, Samantha received only vague responses, often riddled with delays.
Unclear Business Details: The company’s business registration documents, shared upon request, appeared inconsistent, with mismatched addresses and unverifiable certifications.
As weeks turned into months, Samantha’s excitement turned into dread. She had invested $15,000 as a deposit for an initial order of 500 pieces, but delivery deadlines came and went with no shipment in sight.
Seeking Help: Turning to IntelliChain
Desperate and on the verge of financial loss, Samantha contacted IntelliChain Corporation, a firm specializing in cross-border operations, supplier verification, and fraud investigation. During the consultation, Samantha shared all her communications, payment receipts, and details about the supplier.
IntelliChain immediately launched an investigation, promising to uncover the truth behind “Luxe Fabrics & Apparel.”
The Findings: A Scam Unveiled
Within two weeks, IntelliChain provided Samantha with a detailed report. The results were alarming:
Nonexistent Factory: The address listed for the factory was an abandoned warehouse. Local investigators found no evidence of garment production on-site.
Fake Business Registration: The company’s registration documents were forged, with no official records in the government database.
Stock Photos: The product images used on Alibaba were traced back to stock photos commonly found on free image-sharing platforms.
Offshore Payment Black Hole: The Hong Kong account was linked to multiple fraudulent schemes, making it almost impossible to retrieve Samantha’s payment.
How IntelliChain Could Have Prevented the Scam
After uncovering the scam, IntelliChain explained how their services could have safeguarded Samantha’s business from the outset:
Factory Verification: IntelliChain’s on-site inspections would have revealed that the factory didn’t exist, preventing Samantha from engaging with the fraudulent supplier.
Secure Payment Guidance: By using escrow services or trusted payment gateways, Samantha’s funds would have been protected until goods were verified and shipped.
Supplier Background Checks: Comprehensive vetting of “Luxe Fabrics & Apparel” would have flagged inconsistencies in their registration and reviews.
Real-Time Monitoring: IntelliChain’s production tracking tools would have kept Samantha informed, ensuring accountability from start to finish.
The Lesson Learned
Samantha’s ordeal highlights the importance of due diligence when sourcing overseas. Although she lost her deposit, she gained invaluable knowledge and partnered with IntelliChain to find a legitimate supplier in Vietnam. This experience also underscored the compounding challenges of tariffs and scams, pushing her to rethink her sourcing strategies entirely.
How Tariffs Impact Sourcing Decisions
The Trump-era tariffs not only increased costs but also forced businesses like Samantha’s to explore riskier markets in search of affordability. With added pressure to maintain profit margins, companies often rush into partnerships without proper verification, making them vulnerable to fraud.
Conclusion: Safeguard Your Business
Sourcing overseas, especially in industries like clothing, requires careful planning and reliable partners. By working with IntelliChain, businesses can protect their investments and focus on growth without falling victim to scams.
Contact IntelliChain Today
Phone: +1 307-310-5502
Email: connect@intellichainco.com
Address: 306 N Main St. Sheridan, WY 82801
Let IntelliChain be your trusted partner in China, ensuring that every step of your sourcing process is secure and seamless. With our local expertise, we guarantee that your products meet the highest standards of quality, compliance, and safety. By partnering with us, you can focus on scaling your business, knowing that every detail—from factory vetting to logistics—is handled with precision.
Let IntelliChain be your eyes and ears in China, empowering you to bring the best products to market with confidence.
The Tale of Misplaced Trust: How IntelliChain Saved a Business Client from an Overseas Sourcing Scam
Behind the scenes at our China office: One of our dedicated team members meticulously labeling a shipment, ensuring every detail is ready for deployment. From preparation to delivery, we take pride in our seamless operations and attention to detail!
Introduction
Sourcing overseas can be a double-edged sword for businesses seeking quality products at competitive prices. This story revolves around Claire, the owner of a boutique retail store in Los Angeles, who embarked on an ambitious project to introduce a new line of custom luxury handbags to her store. Claire’s goal was to elevate her boutique’s reputation and tap into the growing market of bespoke fashion.
Through an online search, Claire discovered a promising supplier on Alibaba who seemed to offer everything she was looking for: high-quality materials, customizable options, and a sleek portfolio of samples. Impressed by the supplier’s responsive communication and apparent professionalism, she decided to proceed with the deal—unaware of the challenges that lay ahead.
The Honeymoon Phase: Promising Beginnings
From the outset, the supplier, operating under the name “Golden Crown Leathers Co.,” appeared legitimate. They responded promptly to Claire’s inquiries, providing detailed answers about product specifications, timelines, and pricing. The supplier even sent a sample handbag that was so well-made it seemed to confirm their claims of high craftsmanship.
Encouraged by the interaction, Claire decided to place a bulk order of 200 custom luxury handbags for her upcoming retail launch. The supplier requested a 50% deposit, amounting to $20,000, with the balance to be paid upon completion of production. The payment was to be wired to an offshore Hong Kong account, which raised a small red flag for Claire. However, the supplier explained this was standard practice due to "company policies for international transactions."
Though hesitant, Claire proceeded with the payment, eager to meet her tight launch deadline.
The First Red Flags Appear
Initially, everything seemed fine. The supplier sent production updates and even shared a few photos of the bags being assembled. But as weeks turned into months, the updates became less frequent. When Claire asked for a video walkthrough of the factory to verify progress, the supplier claimed their equipment was under maintenance.
Another concern arose when Claire noticed the supplier suddenly stopped using Alibaba’s messaging platform, requesting instead to communicate via WhatsApp. Additionally, their emails began coming from a generic Gmail address rather than the company’s official domain. Her concern deepened when the supplier delayed the promised delivery date multiple times, citing issues such as “unforeseen factory shutdowns.”
Eventually, the updates stopped altogether. Claire’s calls and messages went unanswered. Four months had passed, and the handbags—along with her $20,000 deposit—were nowhere to be found.
Turning to IntelliChain for Help
Desperate for answers, Claire contacted IntelliChain Corporation, a trusted name in cross-border operations. With expertise in supplier verification, logistics management, and fraud investigation, IntelliChain quickly took on the case.
During the initial consultation, IntelliChain’s experts reviewed Claire’s communication with the supplier, payment receipts, and the factory address provided. They assured Claire that their team would conduct a thorough investigation to uncover the truth.
Uncovering the Scam: IntelliChain’s Findings
Within two weeks, IntelliChain provided Claire with a detailed report that painted a grim picture:
The Office Was a Front:
IntelliChain dispatched a local agent to visit the supplier’s registered address in Hong Kong. The address turned out to be a virtual office, with no physical presence of any manufacturing activity.Fake Registration Records:
Upon checking company registration documents, IntelliChain discovered that “Golden Crown Leathers Co.” was not listed as a legitimate business entity. The supplier had provided Claire with fraudulent documentation to create a veneer of legitimacy.Untraceable Payments:
The offshore account where Claire’s deposit was sent was linked to a shell company with no identifiable owner. This made it nearly impossible to recover the funds through traditional legal channels.No Factory in Sight:
The factory images sent by the supplier were traced back to stock photos available online, and the supposed factory location was an empty warehouse.
These findings confirmed Claire’s worst fears: she had been scammed.
How IntelliChain Could Have Prevented the Scam
While IntelliChain successfully uncovered the fraud, the team explained how their preventative services could have saved Claire from this costly mistake:
Factory Verification:
IntelliChain offers on-site inspections to verify the legitimacy of factories. A simple pre-order visit would have revealed that the supplier had no manufacturing capabilities.Secure Payment Guidance:
IntelliChain provides guidance on secure payment methods, such as using escrow accounts or trade platforms that release funds only upon delivery of goods. This would have eliminated the risk of sending a large deposit to an unverified offshore account.Comprehensive Supplier Vetting:
Before entering into agreements, IntelliChain performs a thorough background check, including verifying business licenses, registration details, and client references.Real-Time Monitoring:
IntelliChain’s clients can track production progress through real-time updates, ensuring transparency and accountability from suppliers.
A Hard Lesson Learned
For Claire, the experience was a painful but valuable lesson. With IntelliChain’s help, she was able to pivot her strategy and find a new, verified supplier in Vietnam. While she couldn’t recover the $20,000 deposit, the insights gained from IntelliChain’s investigation enabled her to avoid similar pitfalls in the future.
Claire’s story is a cautionary tale for businesses navigating the complexities of global sourcing. It underscores the importance of due diligence and working with professionals like IntelliChain to mitigate risks.
Conclusion: Trust, But Verify
Sourcing overseas offers immense opportunities but also comes with inherent risks. For businesses like Claire’s, the allure of competitive pricing should never outweigh the need for rigorous vetting and secure processes. By partnering with IntelliChain, businesses can navigate the international sourcing landscape with confidence, avoiding costly mistakes and ensuring smooth operations.
Contact IntelliChain Today
Phone: +1 307-310-5502
Email: connect@intellichainco.com
Address: 306 N Main St. Sheridan, WY 82801
Let IntelliChain be your trusted partner in China, ensuring that every step of your sourcing process is secure and seamless. With our local expertise, we guarantee that your products meet the highest standards of quality, compliance, and safety. By partnering with us, you can focus on scaling your business, knowing that every detail—from factory vetting to logistics—is handled with precision.
Let IntelliChain be your eyes and ears in China, empowering you to bring the best products to market with confidence.
The effectiveness of former President Donald Trump's tariffs
In this picture, one of our dedicated employees is carefully labeling a shipment box in our China office, ensuring it is accurately prepared for deployment. This attention to detail reflects our commitment to efficiency and precision in every aspect of our operations, guaranteeing reliable and timely deliveries for our global clients.
The effectiveness of former President Donald Trump's tariffs has been a subject of extensive debate among economists, policymakers, and industry stakeholders. Implemented with the intent to protect American industries, reduce trade deficits, and encourage fair trade practices, these tariffs have yielded mixed outcomes.
Economic Impact
Analyses indicate that the tariffs had several unintended economic consequences:
Increased Consumer Prices: Tariffs on imports, particularly from China, led to higher costs for consumer goods. A report by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York estimated that by 2019, the average American household incurred an additional $415 in annual expenses due to these tariffs.
Strained Manufacturing Sector: While intended to bolster domestic manufacturing, tariffs on raw materials like steel and aluminum increased production costs for U.S. manufacturers. This resulted in reduced competitiveness and job losses within the sector.
Agricultural Challenges: Retaliatory tariffs from trade partners, notably China, adversely affected American farmers by reducing export markets for products such as soybeans, leading to significant financial strain in the agricultural sector.
Trade Deficit and Global Trade Dynamics
Despite the tariffs, the U.S. trade deficit persisted. Global supply chains adapted, with countries finding alternative markets, thereby diminishing the intended impact of the tariffs. The U.S.'s share in global goods imports decreased, highlighting the limited influence of unilateral tariff measures.
Policy Considerations
The tariffs underscored the complexities of global trade and the challenges of using protectionist policies to achieve economic objectives. They highlighted the need for comprehensive strategies that consider the interconnected nature of modern economies.
In summary, while the tariffs aimed to strengthen the U.S. economy and promote fair trade, their effectiveness was mitigated by increased consumer costs, challenges to domestic industries, and the adaptive responses of global trade networks.
The Perils of Overseas Sourcing: A Cautionary Tale
In 2023, Elegant Interiors, a Chicago-based design firm, sought custom wall panels for a new luxury hotel project. After exploring options, they found a supplier, "Artisan Panels Co.", on Alibaba. The supplier impressed them with high-quality product images and prompt, professional communication.
Initial Impressions
Product Quality: The supplier's samples showcased exceptional craftsmanship.
Responsive Communication: Queries were answered swiftly, with detailed information.
Competitive Pricing: Quotes were 30% lower than domestic alternatives.
Confident, Elegant Interiors proceeded with the order.
Emerging Red Flags
As discussions advanced, concerns arose:
Off-Platform Communication: The supplier insisted on moving conversations to WeChat, citing convenience.
Opaque Company Details: The business name varied between documents, appearing as "Artisan Panels HK Ltd." in contracts.
Unusual Payment Terms: A 50% deposit was requested, payable to an offshore Hong Kong account.
Despite reservations, the firm transferred the deposit, driven by project deadlines.
Communication Breakdown
Post-payment, updates became sporadic. The supplier blamed delays on "material shortages" and "logistical challenges." After six months of missed deadlines and minimal communication, Elegant Interiors sought assistance from IntelliChain, experts in cross-border operations.
IntelliChain's Investigation
IntelliChain's thorough probe revealed:
Nonexistent Office: The supplier's listed address was a virtual office with no physical presence.
Inconsistent Registration: Company records didn't match; the registered entity was unrelated.
Untraceable Factory: The provided factory location was unverifiable.
These findings confirmed the supplier's fraudulent nature.
Preventive Measures by IntelliChain
Engaging IntelliChain earlier could have averted the scam through:
Factory Verification: Conducting on-site inspections to confirm legitimacy.
Secure Payment Guidance: Advising on escrow services to protect funds until order fulfillment.
Real-Time Monitoring: Offering updates on production and shipping statuses.
Lessons Learned
This experience underscores the necessity of due diligence in overseas sourcing. Cost savings can lead to significant losses without proper precautions. Partnering with experts like IntelliChain ensures secure and successful global procurement.
Contact IntelliChain Today
Phone: +1 307-310-5502
Email: connect@intellichainco.com
Address: 306 N Main St. Sheridan, WY 82801
Let IntelliChain be your trusted partner in China, ensuring that every step of your sourcing process is secure and seamless. With our local expertise, we guarantee that your products meet the highest standards of quality, compliance, and safety. By partnering with us, you can focus on scaling your business, knowing that every detail—from factory vetting to logistics—is handled with precision.
Let IntelliChain be your eyes and ears in China, empowering you to bring the best products to market with confidence.
President Donald Trump's proposal for a zero-tariff deal aims to eliminate tariffs
In this photo, one of our dedicated team members is labeling a shipment box in our China office, preparing it for deployment. This moment highlights the precision, care, and efficiency that go into every step of our global logistics operations, ensuring our clients receive their products on time and in perfect condition.
subsidies, and non-tariff barriers between the United States and its trading partners, thereby promoting free and fair trade. For American farmers, such a deal could offer significant benefits:
Enhanced Market Access: Removing tariffs would lower the cost of U.S. agricultural products abroad, making them more competitive and potentially increasing exports. This expanded market access is crucial for farmers seeking to sell their goods internationally.
Stabilized Commodity Prices: With unrestricted access to global markets, demand for U.S. farm products could rise, leading to more stable and potentially higher commodity prices. This stability is vital for farmers' financial planning and sustainability.
Reduced Retaliatory Tariffs: In past trade disputes, U.S. farmers have suffered from retaliatory tariffs imposed by other countries. A zero-tariff agreement would aim to eliminate such measures, reducing trade tensions and fostering a more predictable trading environment.
Lower Input Costs: Eliminating tariffs on imported agricultural inputs like machinery, fertilizers, and seeds would reduce production costs for farmers, enhancing their profitability and competitiveness.
Encouragement of Innovation: Exposure to global markets would incentivize farmers to adopt innovative practices and technologies to meet diverse consumer preferences, driving efficiency and sustainability in the agricultural sector.
However, achieving a zero-tariff deal presents challenges, including negotiating terms acceptable to all parties and addressing non-tariff barriers that can impede trade. Additionally, while such a deal could open new opportunities, it would also expose U.S. farmers to increased competition from foreign producers.
In summary, President Trump's zero-tariff proposal has the potential to benefit American farmers by expanding market access, stabilizing prices, and reducing trade barriers. Nonetheless, careful negotiation and implementation are essential to ensure that these benefits are realized without unintended adverse effects on the agricultural sector.
The Perils of Overseas Sourcing: A Cautionary Tale
In 2023, Elegant Interiors, a Chicago-based design firm, sought custom wall panels for a new luxury hotel project. After exploring options, they found a supplier, "Artisan Panels Co.", on Alibaba. The supplier impressed them with high-quality product images and prompt, professional communication.
Initial Impressions
Product Quality: The supplier's samples showcased exceptional craftsmanship.
Responsive Communication: Queries were answered swiftly, with detailed information.
Competitive Pricing: Quotes were 30% lower than domestic alternatives.
Confident, Elegant Interiors proceeded with the order.
Emerging Red Flags
As discussions advanced, concerns arose:
Off-Platform Communication: The supplier insisted on moving conversations to WeChat, citing convenience.
Opaque Company Details: The business name varied between documents, appearing as "Artisan Panels HK Ltd." in contracts.
Unusual Payment Terms: A 50% deposit was requested, payable to an offshore Hong Kong account.
Despite reservations, the firm transferred the deposit, driven by project deadlines.
Communication Breakdown
Post-payment, updates became sporadic. The supplier blamed delays on "material shortages" and "logistical challenges." After six months of missed deadlines and minimal communication, Elegant Interiors sought assistance from IntelliChain, experts in cross-border operations.
IntelliChain's Investigation
IntelliChain's thorough probe revealed:
Nonexistent Office: The supplier's listed address was a virtual office with no physical presence.
Inconsistent Registration: Company records didn't match; the registered entity was unrelated.
Untraceable Factory: The provided factory location was unverifiable.
These findings confirmed the supplier's fraudulent nature.
Preventive Measures by IntelliChain
Engaging IntelliChain earlier could have averted the scam through:
Factory Verification: Conducting on-site inspections to confirm legitimacy.
Secure Payment Guidance: Advising on escrow services to protect funds until order fulfillment.
Real-Time Monitoring: Offering updates on production and shipping statuses.
Lessons Learned
This experience underscores the necessity of due diligence in overseas sourcing. Cost savings can lead to significant losses without proper precautions. Partnering with experts like IntelliChain ensures secure and successful global procurement.
Contact IntelliChain Today
Phone: +1 307-310-5502
Email: connect@intellichainco.com
Address: 306 N Main St. Sheridan, WY 82801
Let IntelliChain be your trusted partner in China, ensuring that every step of your sourcing process is secure and seamless. With our local expertise, we guarantee that your products meet the highest standards of quality, compliance, and safety. By partnering with us, you can focus on scaling your business, knowing that every detail—from factory vetting to logistics—is handled with precision.
Let IntelliChain be your eyes and ears in China, empowering you to bring the best products to market with confidence.