Knowing how to use a credit card properly can be the difference between leading a comfortable life or a super stressful life. If handled right, a credit card can help build a better credit score, simplify purchases, and come in handy during an emergency. Mishandling a credit card, on the other hand, can result in substantial financial challenges that could be crippling. 

For you to avoid building your credit card debt, here are a few steps you can follow: 

1.  Stick to a Budget

Not having a budget is the equivalent of running up and down a field and not scoring a goal. Most people underestimate their monthly expenditure, but having a budget makes it easier to tackle this problem and save more. A budget also helps you to stay disciplined about your financial goals. 

What’s more important is, having a budget could help curb impulsive purchase decisions that could rack up a massive credit card debt. When you have a clear picture of where you financially stand and what you can afford, it makes it simpler to manage financial commitments and control impulsive decisions. 

If you are struggling with managing your credit card debt and budgeting seems complicated, you could check out lendvia.com to have more clarity to manage your credit card debt. 

2. Emergency Savings

When faced with an emergency, such as a medical expense or a car repair bill, most people would find themselves reaching out for their credit cards to deal with the issue. 

Instead of relying on a credit card for such situations, it is preferable to set up emergency savings in advance. Although it takes a lot of time to have savings that are large enough to cover 6 months of living expenditure, it is best to start with a small amount and continue adding it to the savings fund.  

3. Charge Only If It’s Affordable 

A credit card must never be used to pay for an unaffordable lifestyle. A lot of times, when people see items or services they want to purchase but can’t afford, they find themselves swiping their credit card. They may rationalize thinking that the credit could be paid back comfortably over time. But there is no guarantee of what financial situations could pop-up in the future. 

Instead of swiping the credit card for such purchases, it is better and safer to save up for these things and purchase only things you can afford to repay. 

A simple guideline to keep in mind would be to pay off the entire balance every month. If you are unable to do that, it means you are overspending. 

4. Always Pay On Time

One of the most vital tips for avoiding credit card debt is paying off the entire outstanding balance every month. When a payment is missed, the amount due for the next month will be much higher since you would have to make two payments. Additionally, you would have to pay the late fee, too. 

All this expenditure can make it difficult to fully pay the outstanding balance, and it can push you to use your credit card often just to get by, trapping you in a vicious cycle of credit card debt.

If you are unable to pay off the entire balance or most of the balance every month and are only able to make the minimum payment, it means you are overspending. In this scenario, usage of the credit card needs to be stopped until the entire balance is paid off. 

Late payments also tarnish your credit score, and late payments on multiple credit cards can result in huge interest payments. 

5. Avoid Multiple Credit Cards

The usage of too many credit cards can lead you to greater debt. When you have thousands of dollars available in credit, it can be tempting to indulge yourself and spend excessively. 

A lesser number of credit cards help avoid credit card debt and make it simpler to track your purchases and handle the bills. If you are using one card to pay the outstanding balance of another, it could prove to be very problematic for your finances.   

Bottom Line

If used effectively and with discipline, a credit card can help you manage your finances exceptionally well. In the process, you would also end up establishing an excellent credit score, which could help you to apply for bigger loans when you direly need it. 

Sticking to simple guidelines and being financially disciplined can help you avoid amassing a credit card debt and allow you to have a good credit score.

Algorithmic trading is used for trading assets automatically using computer code. This is also known as automatic trading strategies or trading bots. There are several benefits of algo trading over human trading. First, algo trading run for 24/7 unless stopped. Secondly, algorithmic trading is faster than normal trading. More importantly, there is no impulsive trading, it processes according to the program.

All of the above benefits make algorithmic trading profitable, so how to use these strategies? Here we will focus on the top automatic trading strategies for the crypto market.

Algo Trading Strategies for Crypto Market

There are different automatic trading strategies that can give you profitable trades. Now you will learn the top 4 algo trading strategies that are used for bitcoin storm.

Trend Following Algo System

If you have ever used technical analysis for any types of assets, then probably you are familiar with the trend following system. This is a simple strategy where a trader follows the trend to make profit from the market. This strategy works well for every type of asset class such as equities, commodities, forex trading and even for digital currencies.

One of the trends following algo systems uses an automatic strategy called the Moving Average Crossovers. In this strategy, a faster moving average crosses over a slower moving average which is a signal for a bullish market. If it crosses below then then it’s a bearish market.

Mean Reversion

Trend following system works well for every asset class. However, there is another strategy which can be used for determining the reversal of a trend for exiting the position or for entry by checking the mean average of past data.

After a long movement of the market in any direction, the price always tries to come back to its normal level. So, a mean average strategy can help you to meet your needs and expectations.

Standard Deviation Reversion Strategy

This strategy came from the mathematical subject statistics. The most important and useful standard deviation reversion strategy is the Bollinger Bands. This strategy shows two deviation lines from the mean position.

When the price reaches any of the two lines then it is an indication of over trade. If the price reaches the upper band then it is an indication of overbought. On the other hand, if the price reaches the lower band then it is known as oversold. So, both of the upper and lower bands are the indication of a reversal signal.

Arbitrage Trades

This is one of the most successful algorithmic strategies if you can use it properly. In this strategy, you can use the mispricing across different exchanges to book profits without any risk.

As many exchanges are available, there is a fair chance that the price of a same asset has different value at different exchanges. So, if you want to take advantage of this, buy the asset in one exchange at a lower price and sell it on the exchange where the price is higher. The price difference at exchanges is available for a limited time only. So, make sure you are using this strategy very quickly. As algo trading executes faster, so it is wise to use algo trading for this strategy.

Conclusion

Although the algorithmic trading system is quite difficult for many traders who are just starting out, it can be extremely profitable for frequent traders or scalpers. If you are a frequent trader then convert your strategy into algorithms that can work automatically to book profit from the market. However, it is important to monitor the algorithmic strategy even though they are automatic. Hopefully, the information in this article helped you to deliver the top automatic trading strategies for you.

Are you feeling that your computer is running slow? You will not even be aware, but it will happen. People will not even know that the power of their systems is being used but they will never know about it. This process is known as crypto-jacking, and it is done through different computers. They hack the processing power of the computer which is being used by other users that is us.

Bitcoin era app official website will tell you how the hackers are using the processing power from the computer system of the innocent people and using it for mining cryptocurrency. There are some full-time hackers in the world or the bitcoin, who are active all day and night, and even when you are not awake. Their only work is to hack bitcoins and many among them also hack the processing powers from the computers of the innocent people.

The crypto-jackers illegally harness the power from the other computers and as a result, you will find that your computer is not running well. There are many people who are crypto-jacking, and they are trying to hack a lot of cryptocurrencies from the cryptocurrency community. The criminals use the background of the computer to make it a monero, which is also a digital currency and it is like bitcoin. In a recent suspect, 58% of the illegally generated cryptocurrency was obtained from only 10 hacking plants.

Scientists have discovered that this scam has fulfilled about $58 billion bitcoins from others. Hence the underground activity is quite enormous in the world of bitcoins and cryptocurrency.  It is very important that we understand that there is a dark web which works underground.

You might be aware that the mining of cryptocurrencies takes a lot of power in the process of it and since it is a digital asset, it is important that the hackers will use your electricity and that is what they are trying to do.

What is Cryptojacking?

It is a new online threat that is happening, which hides the computer or any digital device and instead uses the machine’s resource to mine it. It is used to mine the online money which is known as cryptocurrency. The ultimate motive of doing this is the profit, the profit that can be incurred only by earning some crypto bitcoins and using someone else’s computer power to make a crypto jacking.

Difference between Cryptocurrency and the Traditional Currency

The traditional currency is backed by the cryptocurrency while the cryptocurrencies are not being used by it. Hence one has to be very careful while dealing with it and no one can do anything with your bitcoin or cryptocurrency if you tend to keep it safe.

The decentralized matter means that there is no such rule as to how much one can send or receive. No one is going to ask you nor will anyone prohibit you from using it. But then you must be thinking how to keep your coins safe from bitcoin hackers the main rule is every bitcoin owner has a virtual wallet.

Each of the virtual wallets also has a private key. You just need to be very careful of the passwords and the locks. This is a very special way of dealing with the cryptocurrencies and only the miners and the crypto users know in detail about it.

Now when you want to buy bitcoins, or any cryptocurrency make sure you know what to use and how to use it. The wallets or the digital wallets are much needed with a private key to deal with it. This is how you know you can do well in investing and using bitcoins, keeping it very safe.

Do you have a few pieces of random gold jewelry laying around your home? If you do and you are wondering where to sell gold, you are in the right place. Selling gold can be overwhelming because you want to avoid the top mistakes people make and you want to find a reputable place to sell.

Keep reading to learn more about getting cash for gold.

1. Crown Gold Exchange

Crown Gold Exchange is a reputable company that has been around for a decade. They started with only one store but grew to seven locations in their first 12 months of being in business. By their third year in business, they partnered with a large jewelry store chain in southern California and have become a very reputable company to deal with when you are selling your gold.

You can expect to receive payment by cash the same day that you bring in your pieces. You can look here to learn more about their process and the type of gold they will buy. 

2. Cash for Gold USA

If you prefer to do business online, you can check out cashforgoldusa.com. They are another reputable business that will pay you within 24 hours of receiving your gold pieces. 

To give you peace of mind they insure up to $100,000 of the gold that you send in. They make the process fairly easy and after you fill out your information they will mail you a FedEx or a USPS mailer for you to send everything to them. 

3. Sell Your Gold

This is another website that you can go to that has been in business since 2014. They will send you a mailer to send back your jewelry or gold coins.

With this company, they will make an offer the same day that they receive the mailer back and they will send your payment within 24 hours if you accept. You can choose to get paid via check, direct deposit, or PayPal.

4. Luriya

If you are in the New York City area you can visit Luriya in Manhattan’s Diamond District. If not, you can sell them your gold online.

To get an offer online, you will have to fill out the information on their website and send in your jewelry in the kit they provide. Once they receive your items, they will make an offer and pay you if you accept. 

If you are in the area you can simply stop by and they will weigh everything and offer you an amount which they will pay while you are in the store.  

Now You Know Where to Sell Gold

Now that you learned our top recommendations on where to sell gold, you can make a decision on where to go. Whether you prefer online or in-person the choice is up to you. The key is to find someone reputable that will give you the most for your gold instead of trying to give you the lesser end of the stick.

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For many people, holding a standard 9 to 5 job from graduation to retirement is the way to go. The career path offers stability and good income, just about everything you could ask for out of a career. That being said, a standard 9 to 5 job isn’t the only way to carve out a future for yourself. Alternatively, you could become an entrepreneur and establish your own business. Now, why would you want to take on a risky business venture instead of taking the relative security of a traditional job? Here’s why you should start your own business. 

Financial Payoff

When people want to start their own business, the first thing they usually think about is the financial payoff. They think about selling their start-up for millions of dollars down the line, or even becoming a business tycoon like Jeff Bezos or Bill Gates. However not every business venture will net you millions of dollars, and sometimes you may even lose money. That being said there still is a tremendous amount of potential when it comes to earning money from starting your own business. If you play your cards right and have a little bit of luck, starting your own successful business could set you up nicely when it comes to finances.

Autonomy

Another extremely attractive feature of starting your own business is the increased autonomy. Some people just hate taking orders from other people and simply don’t want to be bossed around. These people want to do things their own way and don’t want their income or future to be determined by other people. If you start your own business, you are your own boss. You get to choose how to tackle problems, who you want to hire, and make all different sorts of strategic decisions. While this certainly is a lot of responsibility, some people enjoy forging their own path and the flexibility in business ownership. 

Chase Your Passion

For many people, job satisfaction is just as important as wages and benefits. People want to feel like they’re making a difference, and they want to do something that they love. That’s why many people choose to start their own business, as starting your own business can allow you to chase your passions and follow your dreams. Instead of doing something they don’t enjoy doing, many people will take the leap of faith and start a business in an industry that they’re passionate about. 

Overcome Challenges

As mentioned before, starting your own business can be extremely challenging and filled with trials and tribulations. Yes, you can make lots of money from starting your own business, but the road will be long and hard. For many people, this type of risk and challenge is what attracts them to starting their own business. Instead of staying with a cushy 9 to 5 job, these people want to push their limits and challenge themselves by starting their own business. Sure it might be challenging or risky, but that’s part of what makes the payoff so great. You get what you put into with your own business, something that can attract a lot of people.

Regardless of whether you live a very comfortable life or are drowning in debt, you should always keep an eye on your finances. It’s very easy to overspend or lose track of accruing debt, and before you know it, things have spiraled out of control.

If you have savings, it’s just as important to keep an eye on interest rates to make sure you are getting the best return. Here are 4 money makeover tips to help your bank balance.

Savings

As mentioned above, savings need to be monitored in the same way as debt does. If you have funds in a savings account, find out the interest rate. Check the rates against other financial institutions, and if necessary, switch your funds around. 

Fixed-term or notice accounts will usually pay a higher rate than an instant access account, so if you don’t intend to touch your money for some time, it could be worth locking it away for a while. If you have surplus cash each month, monthly savings accounts are another great way to save. You can usually only pay into them for around 12 months, but interest rates can be pretty decent.

Debt

If you have multiple debts, it’s a good idea to make a list of the debtor, the amount outstanding, and the % APR payable. Establish which is the highest and look to pay that off first, then continue down your list until the debt is cleared.

Payday loans usually carry the highest rate because they are a convenient and quick way of borrowing money fast. Interest can mount, so do your best to use any spare money you have to lower and ultimately pay off the outstanding loan amount. You can read more about it here. If you have borrowed from several organizations, debt consolidation is another avenue that you might wish to explore.

Plan for annual bills

Insurance premiums for the likes of home or car insurance are usually cheaper if you pay annually instead of monthly. The trouble with paying annually is that a good chunk of money will be coming from your account in one go, which is not always affordable.

A great tip is to put the equivalent of 1/12th of your annual bills, whether it’s your ATT internet bill or your car tax, into a separate account each month. That way, when it is time to renew, the money will be there waiting, and you can take advantage of the lower annual premiums.

Spending habits

If you can afford to buy whatever you want whenever you want it – go for it. If, however, you find that you are spending beyond your means, then you need to reign things in. A good way to reduce your spending is to use everything you have at home before buying anything new. For example, how many bottles of face cream, shampoo, and perfume do you currently own? Chances are it’s quite a few.

Make a list of what you have and use it up before you buy anything else. You might be shocked to see how many products you own and how much you can save when you stop making unnecessary purchases.

An astounding 78 percent of the workforce lives paycheck to paycheck. If you’re one of them, you know that there are times when coming up with the money to pay rent and put food on the table feels almost impossible.

During those lean times, taking out a loan is always an option. However, choosing the right loan for your needs can be tough and if you don’t have great credit, qualifying for a loan in the first place might not happen.

Car title loans give you a way to get money quickly without having to rely on your credit score. Here’s how to get a car title loan so you can cover those surprise expenses now.

1. Make Sure You Own Your Car

Car title loans give you to borrow money without taking out a traditional loan from a bank. The lender uses your car as collateral, meaning they’ll take possession of your car if you fail to repay the loan.

Since your car secures the loan, lenders are more willing to approve applications from people with lower credit scores. After all, they can recoup the amount of your loan by selling your car if you default.

However, to apply for a title loan, you’ll need to own your car outright. If you financed the car, the loan should be fully repaid. If you’re borrowing the car from someone, they’ll need to be the ones to apply for the loan.

You must have a clean title that proves you’re the owner of the car. It should also show that no other lenders have a claim on that car.

If you don’t own the car outright, you’ll want to look into other loan options.

2. Shop Around

As with all loans, different car title loan providers will offer different loan terms. The best thing you can do is shop around and get quotes from several lenders in your area.

Each quote will outline the terms of the loan including your interest rate, repayment time table, and how much you’ll receive for your car. Keep in mind that you likely won’t receive the full value of your car when you take out a title loan.

Instead, lenders will offer you a set percentage of your car’s value. This allows them to make their money back if you fail to repay your loan in time.

Take the time to compare the quotes in detail. It’s best to choose a lender that offers the lowest interest rate and the best principal amount.

Once you receive the money, you’re free to use it however you see fit. According to this post, you can use car title loans to pay bills and even to get rid of outstanding debt.

3. Get Your Documents in Order

After deciding on a lender, you’ll need to gather up your documents. These documents will help the lender verify that you’re the owner of the car and can apply for the loan in the first place.

You’ll need your car’s title, a government-issued photo ID, a piece of mail with your address on it, and proof of your income.

Your most recent paystub will work just fine. If you have more than one job, bring pay stubs from each job so the lender has a clear idea of how much you earn each month.

The more you earn, the easier it will be for you to make payments on time and the better terms your lender will likely offer you.

If possible, take pictures of the car, too. Remember, the lender needs to verify that the car matches the one listed on the title.

4. Accept the Loan and Sign the Paperwork

Once you find a lender and compile your documents, you’re ready to accept the loan. The lender will expect you to sign paperwork showing that you agree to the terms and detailing what they expect you to do to repay the loan on time.

After you sign the paperwork, the lender will become a lienholder on the title. Once you pay off the loan, your title reverts back to your name only.

Keep in mind that throughout the repayment process, you’ll keep possession of your car at all times. You’ll still be able to use it to commute to work, run errands, and take trips.

5. Make a Plan to Pay It Back

As soon as you accept the loan, start thinking of how you’re going to repay it in full by the end of the loan term. If you don’t, the lender can take possession of the car and you’ll be without a way to get where you need to go.

Consider setting aside money from each paycheck to settle your debt. If you need your employer to automatically deposit a set amount into a different account so you can’t spend it, update your direct deposit statement.

The important thing is that you make payments on time, every time. This will help you avoid late penalties and ensures that you get to keep your car in the long-run.

Is an Auto Title Loan Right for You?

Auto title loans are a great alternative to traditional personal loans or paycheck advances. Since there’s no restriction on how you can use the money, they’re ideal for people who just need a little extra cash to get through tough times.

However, the loans often have high interest rates which can put a strain on your budget. The best thing you can do is only borrow what you need rather than the maximum amount the lender approves you for.

This will save you hundreds in interest costs alone over the life of your loan.

Now You Know How to Get a Car Title Loan Fast

If you’ve been wondering how to get a car title loan, this guide will help you navigate the process quickly and easily. Just remember to do your due diligence. Research the lenders you’re considering working with and get quotes from several companies before you make a decision.

This way, you’ll be sure to get the best loan terms possible.

Looking for more tips and tricks to help you get through those financially lean times? Check out our latest posts.

The skylines, creative architecture, and a vibe of regal and royalty, this is Kuwait, for you. Apart from its natural placement, the land of Kuwait has recently been a talk of the town, the reason being its currency and its high value. So let’s lift the curtains from the ongoing gossip.

How did it come into existence? 

To understand why Kuwaiti Dinar is among the highest currencies across the globe, let’s trace back its roots. The lines of history connect us to the Roman currency – Roman Denarius, which was used in 211 BC. Although Denarius was not the first coin used, it was one of the most successful currencies found in the Italian Peninsula. The currency did lapse with the time but left a print in the book of the currency system. One example that can be witnessed is the use of similar words such as Denaro, Dinero, and Dinheiro.

Moving further, the Roman Empire got divided into two parts – The Western and Eastern Roman empire. The western went on to become the province of Italy while the eastern side went on to conquer Constantinople. Because of the expansion, the Islamic cultures were influenced by the Romans, and then the subsequent dynasties introduced a currency named – Dinar.

Due to the extensive influence in the Islamic world, Dinar was popularised. When Kuwait was separated from the UK, the administration of Kuwait introduced Kuwaiti Dinar as an official currency to replace the Gulf Rupee.

Since the first round of circulation, there have been six official issues from 1961. The series of currency released in 1980 went on to becoming obsolete when Iraq invaded Kuwait. Post invasion Iraqi Dinar went on to become the official currency of the area. When the hostile situation was lifted, then the fourth series of currency was issued in 1991. The year 1994 saw some security up-gradation, and the final series (current) was released with an engraved impression so that the vision-impaired could also feel them by touch. 

Why is it Expensive?

To understand why Kuwaiti Dinar is among the highest currencies worldwide, it is important to understand the phenomenon of exchange rates. The nature of this can be divided into three ways:

1. Floating

2. Fixed

3. Hybrid

The floating rate is variable and is directed by the market force and performances, whereas the fixed rate is nothing but the idea of pegging the value to other currencies. One other aspect which is considered apart from the two is the hybrid system, which encompasses the characteristic traits of both options.

In the case of the Kuwaiti Dinar, it follows the second regime, which is pegging the country’s currency to other currencies. To start with, it pegged the value of Dinar to Pound Sterling, the national currency of the UK and other British territories. However, with the change in tides, the Dinar was pegged to a basket of currencies chosen by the Kuwaiti Currency Board from 1975 to 2003. Post some turbulence, the decision was changed, and then Kuwaiti Dinar was pegged to US dollar at the rate of 0.29963 Dinars to 1 US dollar back in the year 2003. This arrangement continued till 2007, and then the Kuwaiti Currency board decides to switch to an assorted basket of currencies. So is it all really this easy to peg one’s currency to that of the other nation? The answer is no. So, how Kuwait is doing all of this? The answer lies in the abundant resource it has. Pegging is only possible when you have abundant resources to back your claims. There are various ways and tools; the tool used by Kuwait is superfluous economic power. As it is well known, a large chunk of the economy is driven by petroleum products, which will always be an important avenue for the world. However, despite the credible resource, the Kuwaiti government has continuously been adding a lot of monetary resources into the capital funds established by the Kuwait Investment Authority. This move will secure the future of the nation as a whole and help Kuwait become a credible market source soon.

 How does it all function?

The modus operandi is quite simple; in the stint of 3 years (between 2016 to 2019), the currency of Kuwait fluctuated between $3.27 and $3.36. The information meant that to buy one Kuwaiti Dinar; one might have to spend as low as $3.27 to as high as $3.36. Simplifying it down, a charge of 3.36 USD for 1 Kuwaiti Dinar would mean that the value of US Dollar is depreciating against the value of Dinar. Similarly, if 1 Dinar is bought for $3.27, then the value of USD appreciates against it.

As witnessed, the value of the Kuwaiti Dinar is quite volatile in the market and has limited trading opportunities; due to this, it is not a lucrative option for the investment perspective. Even considering the variable range i.e., buying it at the lowest and then selling it at the highest will yield only 2.75% of the profit. Unless, until there’s a significant pragmatic shift that is going to uplift the value of Dinar, it’s not wise to invest both- efforts and capital in the investment 

Is it important to the global economy?

Honestly, the dangling value, however, high it may hold little importance in the context of world trade. As the place is small and the population makes quite a small percentage of the holistic world population scenario, the high value is pretty much meaningless. It means that people outside Kuwait have very little to do with Kuwaiti Dinar and are unaffected by the rise or decline in the value of the same. Until and unless a country transforms into a superpower and starts controlling the major industrial trade, its value of internal resource holds less importance, as here in Kuwait.

So that’s it. The mystery behind the famous speculation is nothing but a couple of smart moves by the government. In the end, all this is nothing but a facade that holds no truth.

One of the most important parts of running any organization whether it is for-profit or non-profit is proper bookkeeping. If you have recently been thinking to yourself that you can’t keep up with the accounting at your church or if you are currently looking to help your church’s bookkeeping, you are in the right place. We are going to share our top church accounting tips below.

Keep reading to learn more and start applying what you learn today.

1. Spread Out Financial Duties

Even though you want to trust people in the church organization, you always want to implement safety measures to avoid being a victim of fraud. Assign different financial responsibilities to multiple people. For example, you can have someone in charge of tracking expenses and a different person keeping track of the income.

This will create a layer of accountability between several folks, making it easier to notice number discrepancies faster.

2. Annual Budget

Creating a realistic budget for the year will help the church stay on track. You can come back and re-evaluate the budget every quarter or as you see fit to make corrections or make the budget bigger.

Make sure that the budget is seen by those in charge of everything that has to do with the church finances, especially those who work on the church fund accounting team.

3. Classifying Workers

An easy mistake to make is to misclassify workers in your church bookkeeping. Churches are under most of the same laws for labor and employment as “for-profit” organizations. This means that independent contractors and employees have to be classified correctly.

If not, your church will end up with high penalties for making mistakes such as classifying and paying a worker with a 1099, when they should have been classified as an employee. To avoid this mistake, look at each individual you are paying for a service and use the IRS guidelines to determine the correct classification for each person.

If you are ever on the fence, classify and pay them as an employee to be on the safe side.

4. Don’t Do It Yourself

When it comes to taxes this is not a DIY project unless you have experience with non-profits, accounting, and taxes. Usually hiring an experienced bookkeeper might not be high on the list of necessities, but it honestly should be a top priority.

Setting up and maintaining a proper accounting system will be important in the long run. This will help avoid ending up with an ineffective church bookkeeping system where bills are not being paid or bills are being paid twice.

Feeling Like a Church Accounting Pro?

Now that you have our top tips when it comes to church accounting you can put them to work and optimize your church’s bookkeeping. Following the above tips will help you maintain an accurate account of the money that moves around within the church.

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Applying for a loan can be a difficult decision to make. Taking a loan out can affect your life negatively or positively, but unfortunately, it is often much more negative than positive. You should always give it due consideration before you go ahead and take one out. It is always advised you consult a financial planner before you take out a loan and discuss whether or not it will be detrimental to your long-term finances, and if so, you should not take one out. Sometimes, however, you can have little choice and in desperate need of extra finance end up having to take out a loan.

Should I Take a Loan Out for a Big Purchase?

Taking out a loan for a big purchase can often be a risky business. Before taking a loan out for a big purchase you must determine whether or not it is worth the added interest and potential financial errors in the future – when you enter into a loan agreement you can be pursued relentlessly for your payments, so when or if you fail to make a payment, they can immediately add a mark to your credit score which can prove detrimental to your report for years to come.

As with the current COVID-19 pandemic, loan companies have seen a huge surge in interest. In times of extreme financial hardship, it is not unusual to see huge panic buying sprees, whether supermarket shelves are empty or fuel stations empty, the instinct for a panicked human is to hoard as many supplies as you can to ensure the longevity and health of your family in the face of disaster.

Before you take out a loan for a big purchase, especially in an emergency, you should consult a financial advisor or at least weigh up whether or not you can afford it in the long run. Long after the item you have taken the loan out for becomes stale and boring, or proves redundant, you will still be paying back high-interest payments monthly. While these companies often do have payment plans available, they can just add further interest to your payment, which in the end can cost far more than the original product was even worse.

When you choose a company to take a loan out with it is important that you choose wisely and make sure that you do not pick a high-premium shady payday loan company. If you choose an unscrupulous lender you can become inundated with debt for years to come and find yourself in serious hot water. They will often go out of their way to destroy your credit rating. You should always choose a respectable lender, preferably FDIC-approved, and one held in high repute. A lender who appears good but has bad reviews is often to be avoided, as often they can appear to be well-meaning and professionals but are not, and rather, are far from it.

When is a Loan Appropriate?

A loan can be greatly beneficial in times of financial hardship, and notwithstanding the last point, it can offer many benefits. With the obvious negatives and risks taken into account, choosing wisely, and weighing up the possible permutations, you can find yourself a great friend in a time of need. 

However, a loan should not be taken out for trivial things, such as a games console, or clothes unless you are in dire need of them. If you are in a position where you might need to make a big purchase — to buy cooking equipment, household appliance, or able sales diesel tanks, or certain unexpected household disaster, a broken-down car, or a fire happened, these can all be reasons to take out a loan. We all experience disasters in our lifetime, and unfortunately, not all of us are born into wealth, nor will live in wealth during our lifetimes. With the world often feeling like it is stacked against you, it can be a great aid when you have a loan made available to you.

What Type of Loan Should You Get?

It is important to differentiate between the types of loans. There are payday loans which are often high-interest and high-premium loans that can cause disproportionate damage to your credit rating if you fail to pay them back. If you take out a more conventional loan from a bank, you will be offered a multitude of schemes and repayment plans to help you out of an awkward situation being unable to pay. Taking out a payday loan, or a personal loan will allow you to immediately purchase much-needed items, such as appliances, and electronics. Although you can incur some huge fees from personal loans, you can get them instantly and it will circumvent having to pay money while you wait for a more conventional bank loan to be approved.

Use Your Loan to Pay Back Debt

Taking out loans, whether payday or bank, to pay back debts is the most frequently cited reason for needing to take out a loan. While you would ordinarily think it is paradoxical to incur fees and more debt to pay back a lesser debt, it is very frequent and can be quite beneficial and helpful to those in need. Financial advisors would advise you to avoid taking out debt to pay back another debt; however, it is entirely up to your discretion.

Be sure to consult a financial planner to see if there are any alternatives to taking out a loan to pay back your debt. Many times, you can work out a payment arrangement. Debtors will play hard to get and refuse the availability of a payment plan but if persistent you should be able to sort one out. Consider this before you consider taking out a loan.

As aforementioned, if you do find yourself in a situation where you will have to take out a loan, make sure you find a reputable lender. Reputable lenders can be listed on money-aid forums or you can contact your financial advisor or accountant to advise you where you can find yourself a good lender.

Take good care with your credit score as to whether or not you need it now, you will need it one day, and having a bad credit score can hurt you in the future, and hurt your chances of taking out a mortgage.

Renting a property takes work on the part of the owner. Many individuals choose to turn this task over to a property management company. Before doing so, make certain you have the right insurance to cover any damages. This protects you in the event something goes wrong, and many property management firms require it before taking on a client. What are five practical examples of landlord insurance claims?

Tenant Damage

Research shows tenants don’t care for a property as if it were their own. They don’t have an investment in the property and therefore might not take care of it as well as you would. Imagine taking possession of a rental property at the end of a lease only to discover hidden damage that wasn’t discovered during the walk through. This damage must be repaired before the property can be rented again. Landlord insurance helps to cover the costs of this damage, and this type of policy may be obtained through insurers such as Roger Butler Insurance Agency. Landlords don’t bear the full brunt of repairing the damage when this policy is obtained.

Rent Guarantee Coverage

Many landlords only own one rental property and don’t have the funds to cover the mortgage on this property without assistance. When a renter refuses to pay rent for any reason, the property owner must come up with the funds to cover the mortgage payment. Landlord insurance steps in to cover the rent until the situation is resolved. Thanks to the current global pandemic, many landlords find this coverage of great benefit as they navigate these difficult times. Every landlord should consider purchasing this type of protection for future situations such as these and more.

Liability Coverage

Accidents happen. Landlords do everything possible to prevent them, but the tenant also plays a role in maintaining the property. For instance, a property may sustain damage in a storm. The landlord won’t know about this damage until the next inspection or when the tenant calls to alert the owner to the problem. If someone is injured as a result of this damage before the necessary steps can be made to rectify the situation, the landlord could be held responsible. Landlord insurance helps at this time by covering the bills of the injured party so the owner doesn’t have to pay out of pocket.

Property Insurance

Rental properties may not be covered by the owner’s property insurance. In the event the building burns to the ground, for example, and the landlord hasn’t listed the property as a rental, the standard homeowner’s insurance policy might not cover the cost of rebuilding. Rental properties need to be covered by a specific policy to protect the owner. Speak to an insurance agent today to ensure the right coverage is purchased to protect your investment.

Landlord Contents

Tenants can be rough on a home. They spill on the carpet, unplug a freezer while leaving it closed, or fail to replace filters in the heating and AC system, among other things. This leaves the landlord with numerous things to repair or replace when the tenant moves out. Landlord contents insurance helps to cover the costs of these repairs or replacements. Every landlord should consider obtaining this coverage to save money in the long run.

Look into landlord insurance today. The expense associated with purchasing this coverage is easily outweighed by the peace of mind the owner obtains knowing they are covered. No price can be put on this.

Increasing prices of cars make it necessary to buy a suitable car insurance plan. It will be a prudent and smart move. You can’t ignore it for your vehicle’s safety from theft, accidents, and other events.

People often worried about additional expenses and premium amounts. The premium may vary by hundreds to thousands. For this reason, it is possible to find out an affordable insurance plan. With iSelect car insurance comparison service, you can easily choose the best policy.

If you want to save money on car insurance, here are some essential tips to follow. These may help you to shop for the best policy at an affordable price.

Shop Around After Considering Your Needs

Prices of car insurance may differ in each company. Try to get almost three quotes from different insurance companies. Feel free to ask relatives and friends because their recommendations may prove helpful.

You will find different cheap options from a reputable company. Check the official site of insurance companies to learn about available options. With this information, you can pick the right insurance plan.

Keep it in mind that you can’t run after the lowest prices. You have to select a reputable company with affordable options. The company must have user-friendly customer care services.

Compare Cost of Insurance

Premiums of auto insurance are based on the car’s price, safety records, and repair costs. Several insurers offer several discounts for special features. With these features, you can decrease the chances of personal injuries and car theft.

You can compare insurance plans for used and new vehicles. Make sure to check the safety ranking of different models of vehicles.

Raise Your Deductibles

By selecting car insurance with a higher deductible, you may decrease the cost of premiums. Make sure to arrange sufficient money to pay the maximum deductible. Decrease optional insurance on an old car.

If the worth of your old car is ten times less than the insurance premium, you must not consider comprehensive and collision coverage. Carefully check the value of your vehicle.

Bundle Your Plans

Several insurers may offer a discount for purchasing two or even more insurance types. Feel free to combine auto and homeowner insurances. A few companies offer a special price break for longtime clients.

Before bundling insurance, compare the costs of different policies. Make sure to compare discount from a single insurer or different insurers.

Manage an Impressive Credit History

Keep it in mind that an impressive credit history offers different benefits. You will be able to get insurance at a low cost. Several insurers use this information to price your insurance policies.

Make sure to get your credit reports to avoid possible issues. It will help you to detect false information on your reports. Feel free to check your credit statements frequently.

Discounts for Low Mileage

A few companies offer a discount to drivers through special plans. Your employer, alumni groups, or professional business play an essential role in decreasing the cost of premiums. Make sure to see all the possible discounts available for policyholders.

With the development of materials and technology in production, LED lighting is no longer just a discrete light indicator or home decoration. This technology has found its use on tow trucks and rescue vehicles. Many people opt to install these bars to upgrade the look of their SUVs, while others want to make their vehicles suitable for off-road adventures.

If you are thinking ‘Should I get LED headlights,’ see below why these are better than halogen bulbs for your car:

https://www.cars.com/articles/led-vs-halogen-headlights-whats-the-diff-420551/.

Thanks to its construction, which is an assembly of LED tubes with individual lenses and mirrors, it is possible to make the light beam as you want. It extends the capabilities of applying these light bars to vessels, buildings, construction sites, etc. 

If you have decided to upgrade performances of your vehicle, you need to know what factors to consider when buying these bars. You already opt for full-sized models, but you should know that the performances of these bars usually don’t depend on the size. 

Why Do You Need LED Light Bars?

The first thing to think about is why you need this upgrade for your vehicle. Next, you need to know where to put them. Different patterns have different beams. Not all of them are suitable for roof mounting, where most people generally install these bars. Some can be installed on the sides and rearview mirrors, while others can go on bumpers.

For example, spotlight beams have the longest beam distance, but the disadvantage is that there is no side reflection. Because of the directed beam, this pattern is not suitable for off-road driving, but the streets only. These are great for slow vehicles cruising the straight roads.

Floodlight beams are your choice if you are a fan of outdoor activities and slow rides on off-road routes. In these LEDs, the beam ‘spreads,’ allowing you to see the obstacles from the side. But the beam distance is significantly smaller than with spot beams. Also, this type of light often creates a glare on your windshield and hood.

You can decide on a combination of the two patterns and get the most of both worlds. There is a specialized variant of full size led light bars, with the longest and widest beam. That is the best option if you plan on installing only one bar on your vehicle.

The Color

There is no great dilemma about color. When you need the spotlight for work and night driving, you can choose between white and ‘amber.’ These two colors allow for the best visibility and perceptibility of the area in front. In limited lightening conditions, these LEDs showed the best performance.

There are options to choose a specific color or their combinations for each module separately. Still, it is good to know that all colors have a more substantial reflection than white and are less suitable for use at night. Colored bars may be more appropriate to use when the weather is bad or as a warning signal.

The Price

The quality of the product, in most cases, determines its price. As for LEDs, you can find models in different price ranges. That means you have a choice – will you pay more for quality and long-lasting product at the start, or will you buy a cheaper bar and get a new one whenever the old one broke down.

Cheap products are usually not a good idea. They may eventually break down or create a problem. If you need an LED bar for business, consider buying a more expensive model as an investment. But if you just want to show off, you don’t have to spend a fortune. But cheaper reflectors have limited performance.

What you should pay attention to is the IP rating. You can find more information on this link. Keep in mind the quality of the lenses; housing should be of durable materials, and sealing must be firm. The preferred wattage per diode is between 3 and 5; you will recognize lower quality products by low wattage.

The installation of LED bars brings many advantages. They have a long working life (more working hours), as well as resistance to voltage changes. Also, these bars are economical in terms of power consumption.

Money, you always want to have a little more so you could buy that fancy dress or a new gadget, save more for your vacation or a cool dinner, pay off your debts faster, or feel more relaxed about your whole personal financial situation.

There are simple but effective and fun ways to make money on the side. You can earn a bit extra every month without wasting time or effort! Here are a few suggestions for what you can do.

 Photo by NeONBRAND

Make Homemade Movies

All you need to make a cool and memorable movie that’s perfect for becoming a YouTube sensation is a camera and a lovely idea. You don’t need any props or an ideal script. 

Anything goes! There’s a video that shows cute cats or some guy dressed like Batman doing daddy’s usual stuff. There’s an endless amount of video options with smart hidden cameras and water balloon jokes. These were all hits in the past.

After all, all you need is a nice idea and a rough vision of how to turn it into a video. Turn the camera on, make it happen, upload it to Youtube and share it with your friends. It’s probably not going anywhere. But it’s possible.

You’ll never know until you spend the day with the camera making the video. It could be a good opportunity to make some money and have fun while doing it.

Start A Podcast Series

Recording podcasts can be incredibly enjoyable, both for the person who listens and the person who records. 

All you need to record your podcast is a computer and a microphone. You can even record it using just a smartphone if it’s a simple solo show without much need for editing.

You can post your podcast for free using BuzzSprout as you start, and then switch to other ideas if your podcast becomes popular. When it becomes popular, you can start making money from it.

Making money for a podcast is a bit difficult. Still, once you start collecting an audience yourself, you can look at maybe joining a podcast network, which serves as a team to search and negotiate with advertisers to raise funds.

Moreover, podcasting is fun and a great way to attract any topic of interest to the online community.

Raise A Garden

Raising a garden is an interesting and exciting hobby. It is wonderful to take a plot of land, plant some seeds in it, take care of this area by removing weeds and adding nutrients, and watch the plants grow and produce fruits and vegetables. Also, if you use varieties, you can save seeds and plant them again next season.

So how does it make money? For example, you can take food and eat it yourself, getting rid of the cost of food or food ingredients, and keep that money in your pocket. 

You can also take extra food and sell it. You can post what you have for sale on Facebook or take it to the farmers’ market. You could also put them on a table in front of your house with a box, and a “take what you want, pay what you can” card. See how you can sell extra services to local grocers.

The bigger the garden, the more food it will produce, and the more food you produce, the more money you can get. It’s all about how much you like this hobby and how much time and energy you’re willing to spend.

Sports Betting Sites

Sports bets are skill-based bets (depending on the bets you choose). Although you may think that you are betting against the house, they often manipulate the lines, so you are betting against other players, and they charge a small fee to make a bet easier. 

With the right skill and a sharp eye, you can make a living betting on sports. Is it difficult? Yes, but it is quite possible, and many people do it every day.

You could consider joining a sportsbook and start making the right bets. You should start with a sport that you know well, and do extensive research. 

You should be a successful sports bettor if you can come up with a system to predict games and outcomes correctly. 

Take a look at this trusted sportsbook and sports betting site.

Consider Playing A Free Video Game And Stream It

There are many free computer games and inexpensive video games such as League of Legends and Ancient Defense 2 that offer an incredible depth of gameplay and fun. 

They also attract an amazingly large online viewing audience, people who love to tune in and watch people play and hear their comments through sites like Twitch.

If you like to play video games, broadcast them! You can easily set up streaming from Xbox One, PS4, or PC and stream your games and make some money. 

This feature is built-in; you can get OBS for free to stream from your PC. You can also record comments during the game if you have a microphone, and in my experience, this is the best way to create an audience – fun comments during the game.

One of the great strategies is to play niche games that are considered to be classics and joke around while playing as you played with your friends. You do not need to be competitive, just interesting.

 Photo by JESHOOTS.COM

Start A Blog On A Topic Of Interest And Put Some Ads On It

What interests you? What excites you? What do you like to do and say? These are the things that could make a great blog.

It’s pretty easy to start with a platform such as WordPress, Blogger, or Squarespace. All you are required to do is sign up, choose a template, and start writing. 

It is recommended that you focus on two things with each article – make it informative and entertaining. Many believe that items that combine to mix information with interesting anecdotes and stories fascinate people regardless of the subject.

So how do you make money here? There are many ways. 

• You can advertise on the site using Adsense.

• You can place affiliate links to Amazon on the site.

• If you have many articles, you can link them to an ebook.

• You can also use a blog to promote other things you do and other ideas.

Each of these things has the opportunity to make you some money.

Photo by Thought Catalog

Make Crafts And Sell Them Online

Do you have a particular craft skill that you would like to share with others? Maybe you are good at sketching and can make individual sketches for people from photos. Perhaps you are an excellent fiction artist (like this old friend of mine) and would like to sell some of your work. 

Maybe you are making handmade metal signs or key chains. Perhaps you like to knit scarves.

Whatever you do, you can sell it on sites like Etsy.

Opening a store on Etsy is pretty easy; basically, you list yourself and then list a few of the items you sell, pictures of those items, and a reasonable price for them. 

Describe these items well, and people who are looking for exciting jewelry or items to buy will find them.

Not only that but after you have the items listed on Etsy, you can discuss them elsewhere. Post the items on Facebook so that your friends can see them and share them on other discussion forums that you participate in and are related to your hobby.

Start A Video Podcast/blog And Add A Few Ads

It’s effortless. If you have a camcorder on your laptop or computer, record a video discussing what you like. 

Save the video, edit it a bit if you like, and then post it on YouTube. Turn on advertising on this video. Over time, you will make a lot of money on every video you post.

Like in blogs, the real value comes from recording a lot of videos, so people who will find you are interested in sticking with you by watching more of your videos.

It’s a great way to channel your thoughts into something that can make some money, especially if you’re not strong in converting those thoughts into written words—dealing with video challenges is an entirely different set of skills.

To Sum Up

The main thing to remember is that these paths will not necessarily lead you to become rich. However, they will allow you to do what you like and maybe earn enough to pay at least part of the cost of this hobby or possibly earn a decent extra income. Even a small amount of extra income can make a difference.

On the one hand, if it is a good hobby, it means that it generates an income, puts money in your pocket, and does not take it out. 

An income-generating hobby has the potential to grow into something big, provided that you hit the spot with your audience and promote it well, and its a great way to have fun!

Introduction

2020 has been enough of a turmoil for everyone, especially the new professionals have been hampered most as in the freshers who joined the working sector this year or the previous year. Some of the freshers have just stepped into the professional world and they have been awestruck by what 2020 had to bring for them. Some mid-experienced workers have claimed that they have been going through a lot of losses since the beginning of 2020.

Many clever individuals are trying to fix their losses by making some remarkable investments and some by saving money. Well for beginners who have just started to earn some money, it is wise to know that saving money will not grow your stable money, you need to start investing your money.

What could be a better time than this pandemic hit earth when everything is at utmost depression and no one is being able to get over the loss. The prices of gold have also hit the ground and it is still expected to rise in some time.

Best Investment Plans in 2020

There are many sectors of investment but we will give you the simplest ones which as a beginner would be easy to invest in or as an experienced would be some safe investments.

Bitcoin Investment

I am sure, you must have heard of the bitcoin billionaire, who helped many to become the billionaires in the world just by trading and investing on bitcoins. Well, the fact is that it has been revealed by the bitcoin experts that during the worldwide lockdown, there have been millions who lost their jobs.

At the same time, there is also a good sign that more and more people have joined the crypto world. Especially in countries like India and China where the use of cryptocurrency was banned almost, more and more people have shown their engagement in the crypto-related games and idea.

Hence if you are new to the world of investment and eating up too much of your brain thinking how could you investment safely then here is Option 1 for you. Start investing in bitcoins without even thinking twice, because we assure you that you will never run in the loss, not only you in fact all the experienced investors say that having bitcoins in the portfolio is as important as having gold. But since you are a beginner then you must first start with a bitcoin as an asset.

Invest in Gold

This might feel you a little risk plus you must be thinking that you need some decent amount of money to buy gold. Wait! Who asked you to invest in physical gold, do you know that there is also something called digital which you can buy at as low as $10?

In the case of digital gold, you do not have to think for the security of the gold or need not take any tension regarding the gold, all you can do is just get in touch with your state gold authority or your country gold authority and buy some digital gold from them and the transaction related to it will happen online. You will have to pay through any of the online payment methods, your portion of gold will be named on you and later of after few months whenever you want you can sell back the gold to the authority again and it will give you the amount at which the gold is priced on that particular day.

It also means that if you suppose buy at $4/karat today then after two months if you wish to sell the gold and if it is priced $7/karat then you will get back your money considering $7/karat.

The GDPR was created to “regulate” the management of privacy linked to the use of user data on the web, apps and social media by web and media companies who are trying to build their competitive advantage on user profiling. The GDPR can be “interpreted” as a “digital rights charter” of people.

The possible relationships between GDPR and blockchain

The GDPR regulation impacts on a number of areas that relate to the specific characteristics of the Blockchain:

Data access and visibility – The data entered in the blockchain are public and accessible by anyone participating in the chain

Data deletion – the data stored in a blockchain are tamper-proof, therefore their deletion will not be possible once such data is entered in the distributed chain;

Data immutability over time – the data present in the blockchain are kept unlimited and cannot be modified, tampered with or deleted.

Distributed data control – blockchain are distributed therefore control over data cannot be centralized and it is the responsibility of all participants in the blockchain (it is difficult to identify the Data Protection Officer figures required by the GDPR);

Automated decision-making processes – with Smart Contracts, automated decision-making processes or a new type of data management must also be considered

Blockchain and GDPR for a Security by Design

Blockchain and GDPR allow creating “security by design” solutions ensuring pseudonymisation (decoupling of data from individual identity) and data minimization (sharing only the data points absolutely necessary).

With this setting it is impossible to reconstruct the contents of a transaction from the one- way cryptographic hash. And unless one of the parties to the transaction decides to link a public key to a known identity, it is not possible to map and link transactions to individuals or organizations. This means that even if the blockchain is “public” (where anyone can see all the transactions on it), no personal information is made public.

Blockchain, GDPR and legislative issues

The GDPR introduces some rules that may not always be respected by blockchain.

GDPR and Data Protection Officer –   The GDPR introduces the figure of the DPO – Data Protection Officer, an expert in data protection legislation and practices who must assist the person who controls or manages them in order to verify internal compliance with the regulation . The DPO must be a person with a good command of IT processes, data security and other business coherence issues regarding the maintenance and processing of personal and sensitive data.

“When is it necessary to appoint a personal data controller? In the GDPR, the controller must be appointed in the event that the main processing activities require regular and systematic monitoring of data subjects on a large scale, if the activities include the large-scale processing of particular categories of personal data or of data relating to criminal convictions and offenses, again when the treatment is carried out by a public authority or by a public body. “

Which jurisdiction to apply for the law of which country – In the event of disputes, which laws must be applied and how it all began? You can follow trustpedia to read more about crypto.

In a blockchain (especially if it is public) data is kept on each node of the network – publicly accessible to anyone – regardless of the original purpose for which that data was entered and processed in the blockchain. How does this typical blockchain feature fit into a regulatory context that requires that the specific purposes for which personal data are processed must be specified, explicit and legitimate and that personal data must be adequate, relevant and limited to the purposes for which are treated.

The identity of a user (and therefore his sensitive data) is protected by a code that represents the public key to join the distributed network. From a regulatory point of view, it is necessary to understand what constitutes “personal data” in a blockchain context: must public keys be considered personal data? Although a public key appears as pseudonymised data, these do not represent anonymous data and are very often associated with specific natural persons.

Therefore, it is also necessary to deal with legislation on how to manage the “right to be forgotten” issue within a blockchain.

How can traders evaluate a company’s performance? The answer isn’t as simple as deducting expenses from total revenue. There are a few measures of financial performance and profitability within an income statement, and each of these indicators tells a different story.

You’ll likely encounter some of these measures when reading a company’s earnings report or using the software available now at us.tradezero.co. Understanding these indicators helps traders assess a company’s performance over time, and how it compares with its competitors. Below, you’ll learn a few terms that should be a part of any investor’s stock trading vocabulary.

Net Income

It’s the simplest measure of a company’s profitability. Net income is the amount of money left after expenses-; such as administrative expenses, taxes, interest, and the cost of products sold-; are deducted from revenue. Depreciation and amortization are also subtracted. If expenses are higher than revenue, the total is considered a loss. The common term “bottom line” refers to a company’s net loss or income as it is shown in the income statement.

Earnings Before Interest and Taxes

Many analysts and investors use EBIT (earnings before interest and taxes) as a profitability indicator. EBIT is sometimes called operating profit. Because interest expenses and tax structures are different from one company to the next, setting these factors aside allows a trader to determine just how much a company is earning from daily operations. It also levels the playing field when comparing companies’ financial performance.

Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation, and Amortization

Like the factor referenced above, EBITDA allows for an accurate, direct comparison between stocks and industries. Not only does EBITDA strip away taxes and interest, but it also removes amortization and depreciation.

Depreciation is a term used to explain how the cost of an asset is spread out over its lifespan; it allows a company to reduce its taxable earnings each year. For instance, if a piece of equipment is worth $1000 and is expected to last five years, the company can deduct $200 each year for depreciation.

Amortization is very similar, but it’s used to allocate the cost of an intangible asset. Stock traders may use EBITDA when evaluating companies with significant capital expenditures, such as utilities.

EPS or Earnings Per Share

EPS (earnings per share) is an indication of a company’s profitability per common stock share. Income statements typically include two earnings per share measure: diluted and basic. The basic EPS is calculated by dividing the company’s net income by its number of common shares.

If there are preferred shares, the dividends paid are deducted from net income before that total is divided by the number of common stock shares. If new shares were issued or bought back during any quarter, the weighted-average common share number would be used in the calculation of EPS.

A company’s diluted EPS is determined by dividing its net income by the number of common shares plus the number of shares that would be in play if convertible bonds, stock options, warrants, and preferred shares were exercised. Therefore, the company’s diluted EPS is usually lower than its basic EPS.

Considering EPS performance over an extended period will help investors assess the company’s profit trends if the number of outstanding shares remains relatively consistent. Keep in mind that companies can generate a higher EPS without adding net income if they buy back shares.

Price to Earnings

Beyond a company’s profitability, investors also want to compare the value of different companies’ stocks. The P/E or price to earnings ratio is the tool they use, and it’s determined by dividing the stock price by the EPS. This metric is great for comparative analysis, as looking at a single company’s P/E ratio without comparing it to another company’s figures won’t provide much new information.

Stocks with high P/E ratios trade at higher prices relative to their EPS. Those with lower P/E ratios trade at lower prices and could be considered inexpensive relative to other stocks with higher ratios. P/E is subjective, however. It’s typically used to compare companies within a sector because some newer sectors are known for higher ratios, while established industries’ ratios tend to be lower.

Return on Equity

Return on equity or ROE is an indicator that demonstrates the return on shareholder equity, and it’s just one way an investor can determine whether companies are spending their money wisely. ROE is given as a percentage that’s calculated by dividing the company’s net income by the value of its average common equity.

Investors can take the ROE and use it to compare companies to their peers. The ROE is different from an EPS calculation, as the denominator is the value of the average total equity rather than the number of outstanding shares.

Consider Your Rationale Before Investing in Stocks

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced trader, it’s important to understand your reasons for buying a certain stock. What aspects of the company are compelling? It’s not a good idea to buy stocks based on the company’s brand, its employees, or long-held perceptions.

An investment based on emotions is the wrong investment to make. Likewise, a speculative investment may yield a profit, but it’s not wise to use them to form a long-term plan. For the most effective investment, focus on stocks that are priced fairly or undervalued.

Think about it for a minute. Even the biggest company in the world would be a bad investment if you paid too much for its stock. To make accurate comparisons and informed decisions, look to the fundamentals we’ve listed in this guide.

The Takeaway

The most crucial thing to remember is that, when you’re looking for a stock to buy, it’s vital to use multiple metrics to compare investments. Going by a single metric, such as the company’s net income, won’t give you the information needed to make the right decisions. An in-depth understanding of these terms, as well as an informed decision-making process, will do much to help you sell, buy, and hold stocks effectively.

Buying a home is one of the biggest decisions you will make in life. It is also one of the most costly, as you need to save lots of money to afford a decent property. Most homebuyers have no choice but to apply for a home loan. Even then, the process can be complicated, particularly if they cannot fulfill certain requirements to qualify and get the mortgage approved.

If you have a low credit score or a shaky financial history, chances are your application for a home loan will be rejected. In this case, having a mortgage guarantor may be what you need. A guarantor for a mortgage will back up your loan by agreeing to fulfill payments and take over in the event that you default. 

What is a Guarantor Mortgage?

 

A guarantor mortgage is a type of loan that requires a guarantor to co-sign a loan contract. This is a way to secure a mortgage when you lack the required deposit or when your financial history prevents lenders from approving your loan. A guarantor mortgage is sometimes called a family assisted mortgage, where a parent or close family member agrees to help and take the risks.

A guarantor mortgage is recommended if a borrower is a first-time homebuyer, with small or no deposit. This also applies if you have a low income and low to non-existent credit score. If you want to buy a property, but your lenders or mortgage loan aggregators calculate that it costs more than what you can afford, then this type of loan may be the answer to your problem.

What is the Difference between a Guarantor and a Co-signer?

 

A guarantor differs from a co-signer in several significant ways. While both can help unqualified individuals secure a mortgage, their rights and responsibilities are distinct. A co-signer is required to sign mortgage documents, so their name will appear on the property title. In essence, they co-own the home with the mortgagor and will be held accountable for any outstanding payments stipulated in the contract.

Unlike a co-signer, the name of a mortgage guarantor will not appear on the title of the home. This means that while they are responsible for covering the payments, they will not actually own the home even when the original mortgagor defaults. While a co-signer is used when an applicant fails to qualify due to major problems like income issues, a guarantor comes in only to give a boost and satisfy the lending criteria of an applicant on the verge of qualifying.

To give a more concrete example, a co-signer is needed if the borrower has an unverifiable source of income, like self-employment, but may be able to pay the loan easily. Meanwhile, a mortgage guarantor is brought in if the applicant qualifies income-wise, but has problems with credit. This often happens for young individuals looking to buy a home for the first time and do not have any credit with banks. 

How Do I Choose my Guarantor?

 

Some lenders have strict requirements that you have to follow when applying for a guarantor loan. Your mortgage guarantor Canada must satisfy the standards set if you do not want your application to be rejected right away. Technically, they must be in better financial standing than co-signers, must have a stable income and a job.

A guarantor for a mortgage must have a steady source of income to cover the cost of loan repayments if required. Lenders also check if they have adequate savings and a stable job, backed by relevant documents to be submitted by the guarantor. Having a strong credit record is also a requirement. Typically, a credit score of 650 or higher is needed to qualify. 

Owning a house as part of a legal guarantee will also eliminate the lender’s worries regarding flight risks. Some lenders require a guarantor to be a Canadian resident or have lived in the country for a certain period of time. Your mortgage guarantor Canada also has to present a government-issued ID showing they are over 18 years old. 

What are the Potential Risks of Being a Guarantor?

 

Signing a mortgage as a guarantor is not a decision to be taken lightly. You have to know your mortgage guarantor rights or run the risk of paying thousands of dollars if the primary borrower decides to bail out and leave you to clean the mess. It is important that a contract is designed to protect the guarantor from getting stuck paying defaulted loans for years.

In a worst-case scenario where a guarantor has to pay all loan repayments and it is tied to a mortgage, there are two possible outcomes and both are unappealing. Either the guarantor remortgages their own property or has it repossessed to cover the damages. Moreover, their credit score will suffer when repaying loans.

There is a reason why lenders prefer immediate family members, like parents and siblings, to be the guarantors in these arrangements. Some also allow extended families and ex-spouses. Considering their familial ties, they are less likely to run from their responsibility as guarantors. Family or not, it is best to seek advice before agreeing to sign any loan guarantee.

When Should I Agree to Become a Guarantor?

 

If someone you know asks you to become a guarantor for a mortgage, consider the following questions. Your answers will help you make an informed decision about whether to agree or not, considering all the risks involved. Always keep in mind that in being a guarantor, you are agreeing to be liable for someone else’s debt.

 

Do you trust the borrower to pay back the loan on time? 

Can you afford to cover any outstanding payment, in case of default? 

How much is the loan that you will be guaranteed?

Can you get yourself out of the contract at some point in the future?

Will being a guarantor affect your ability to secure your own loan later on? 

 

If you are in the right financial position to be a guarantor for someone you know who needs your help, by all means, be one. Just be cautious. Know your mortgage guarantor rights. Read the contract thoroughly before signing. If you need to, speak with a mortgage broker who will act in your best interest and ask them to explain all of your options.

Did you know the average flood damage claim is $42,000?

This is to say, if your property were to sustain flood damage today and you don’t have flood insurance, repairing and restoring it will cost you a whopping $42K. Do you have this kind of money sitting around in your account?

If you’re anything like most Americans, the answer is no. However, for about $700 per year, you can get flood insurance coverage with a $250K claim limit.

Sounds like something you would want to buy?

Good.

Here’s is a guide on how to get a reliable flood insurance quote.

What’s a Reliable Flood Insurance Quote?

Getting a reliable flood insurance quote simply means buying your insurance from a reliable flood insurance company.

Insurance companies aren’t created equal, and neither are flood insurance policies. There are some companies that have a reputation for taking too long or failing to settle claims. Others have a reputation for offering quality client service, meaning as long as the claim is valid, it’s paid out immediately.

You definitely want to buy flood insurance from a company that won’t frustrate you at your hour of need. At the time you’re filing a flood insurance claim, you’ll probably be under a lot of stress. The last thing you want is more stress.

So, how do you find a reliable quote?

Get Recommendations from the People Around You

As a property owner, you certainly know other owners. These could be relatives or close friends.

Reach out to them and ask whether they have purchased flood insurance and if yes, what their experience with the insurance company is. Pay more attention to property owners who have experienced flood damage. If they received quality service when filing a claim, that’s the kind of insurance company you want to sell you coverage.

If you don’t know anyone who has flood insurance, take your search online. A simple “best flood insurance company in X” where X is the name of your state or region will return a page with links to some of the top-rated local insurance companies.

Have a Good Idea of the Cost of Flood Insurance

You already know that the average annual flood insurance premium is $700. However, there are a number of factors that can push this amount a bit lower or far higher.

Understanding how these factors will affect your insurance premiums is key to getting a reliable quote.

The most important factor is the flood risk zone your home is in. If in a high- risk flood zone, expect a pricier quote than you’d get if the home were located in a low-risk flood zone.

Flood zones information is publicly available. Just look up your state’s flood plain map online. Most maps are colored-coded, with red indicating a high-risk zone.

So, if you’re in a low-risk zone and you get a quote that is markedly higher than the average, you have a good reason to be suspicious or ask the lender to explain their pricing.

Get a Reliable Flood Insurance Quote

Flood insurance is a must-have, whether you live in a high-risk or a low-risk area. However, you need to be careful when purchasing your policy. With this guide on how to get a reliable flood insurance quote, you’re now in a better position to get the best deal.

Keep reading our blog for insurance tips and advice.

Becoming a knowledge trader is very important to your success. Trading is nothing but speculation of the price of an asset or company. The stock traders buy an asset when they think the price will go higher and they short it when the price goes lower. Saying things in the article is easy but finding the trading opportunity in the real stock market is a very tough task.  The experience investors in Hong Kong often find it hard to determine the best asset to trade.

The success of stock traders depends on their actions. Traders can take rational steps when they have in-depth knowledge of this market. Considering the struggling traders, we are going to discuss some of the most amazing ways you can improve your trading knowledge.

Use the social trading community

You can become a member of the active trading community and participate in the discussion. By taking the professional trader, you will learn many new things. The rookies might not participate in the professional trader’s conversion due to lack of knowledge but they can still learn a lot of new things. Try to post some analysis on the major stocks and see what the professional traders say. Make friends with the top traders and you will get powerful insight into this market.

Read books

You must read books on a regular basis to become a top stock trader. Without harnessing the knowledge it is nearly impossible to become a professional stock trader. The majority of successful traders in the Saxo Forex broker read books on a regular basis. They do so because it improves your knowledge and let them understand the market much better. Though it might seem a little bit complicated task once you develop the habit of reading books, things will start to make sense in the stock market. You will know why you were losing money and you won’t make the same mistake again.

Revise your trading method

Every once in while you need to revise your trading method. During the problem fixing stage, you will find a few technical issues that require more analysis and research. Thus, you will get the unique chance to improve your knowledge. Revision to your trading strategy is a must as the market is always evolving. While revising the trading method, try to use the demo account like Saxo so that you get the real price feed. Fixing the problems in the real market is a very tough task and you might have to lose big money.

Join the webinar

Do you know the experienced traders join stock trading webinars on a regular basis? They do so because they know the importance of knowledge. If you stop learning about trading, soon you will stop making a profit. You don’t have to join the paid webinars. If you trade with the reputed brokers like Saxo, you will find many free educational resources. Use free resources and enhance your knowledge to become a better trader. Once you learn to trade in a very precise way, you will be able to trade like a pro stock trader.

Never lose confidence

Those who trade long enough always face a major stock market crash. Seeing the market about to crash, rookies often quit trading. But every crash is a huge opportunity to make some big profit. Learn how the big players make money using the market crash. It’s more like learning about the economic bubble theory. By doing some research you gain confidence and it will help you take trades in the most complicated market situation. Though trading is a complex task many investors consider it as one of the easiest businesses to engage in.

No matter what, you can’t lose your confidence. If you do, you can’t survive in the trading industry. Work hard and believe in your trading strategy to succeed in the long run.