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Where are business owners putting their investment capital these days? The most popular choices among startups and established companies might surprise you. Not just because the selections managers and owners make are somewhat passé, but because most of the technology has been around for more than a decade. It's a fact that the corporate world, as a whole, likes to wait for new systems and programs to prove themselves before plunking down hard-earned investment money on them. For instance, it took nearly 20 years before brokerage firms and banks become comfortable with automated investing software.

Manufacturers couldn't give the stuff away when it first appeared on the market. Now, you'd be hard pressed to find a financial institution, government agency, or full-service stock broker that doesn't use auto-invest programs as a matter of course. For 2021, what are the investment categories for small and large businesses? Here are four of the most popular ways owners are spending their money.

IT Security Enhancement

No matter what kinds of goods or services a company offers, there's a chance that a single hack of their computer system could lead to work stoppage, stolen data, and even a demand for ransom. Cases of hacking for ransom are on the upswing, which is behind the increased demand for anti-hacking software and professional services. Costs associated with ongoing protection in this realm are reasonable enough that most corporations view the expense as a high-tech version of insurance against theft, just as you might think of a set of digital door locks or fingerprint-verified entry scanners. The main benefits include the prevention of everyday hacks, constant surveillance against ransomware attacks, and large-scale data backup.

Commercial Fleet Systems

Companies with fleets of all sizes are turning to advanced telematics systems to keep track of commercial vehicle fuel economy, delivery efficiency, driver performance, and dozens of other key parameters that managers use to minimize expenses and enhance safety. One of the advantages of advanced telematics programs is that they are cost-effective from day one. And, compared to high-tech systems in general, initial capital outlays are low. You can review a comprehensive guide on fleet vehicle telematics in order to gain a clear understanding of why so many companies are using them, and why they could make sense for your organization.

Reputation Management

Firms that specialize in corporate reputation management are enjoying something of a golden age. An increasing number of business owners are discovering the value of investing in ongoing services or software packages that monitor every online mention of the company's name. Some reputation management service providers and consultants have had success not only with preventing negative news about companies but with removing or countering harmful media pieces that are already out there.

Physical Asset Security

Protecting physical assets with high-end locksmith services is one of the hottest trends in the small business niche. Modern day locksmiths install new age security devices like smart panic bars, building-wide iris recognition locks, doors that only open to a limited set of fingerprint-verified people, and 100 percent camera surveillance in open and common areas.