Bill Proposing Elimination of “Carried Interest” will Affect Wealth Managers

February 20, 2021
Yasmin Abbey

Last wee, Democratic Representative Bill Pascrell, Jr. unveiled H.R. 1658, a legislation that seeks to eliminate a tax loophole known as “carried interest.” The said loophole has been long contended as an egregious privilege bestowed by the country’s existing federal tax codes to wealth managers. As it is, top notch wealth managers or financial advisers earn substantial amounts in managing the wealth of the super rich investors but without paying commensurate taxes.

As Chairman of the House Subcommittee on Ways and Means, Rep Pascrell (D-NJ-09), along with members Rep. Katie Porter (D-CA-45) and Rep. Andy Levin (D-MI-09), introduced a legislation captioned as “Carried Interest Fairness Act 2021.”

In announcing the proposed law, Rep. Pascrell gave the following remarks:

”The credit interest loophole has existed in the country’s tax system for too long; allowing private equity moguls to pay lower taxes than their employees. This year, we will push hard for the closing of that loophole, to ensure millions of Americans are entitled to a fairer tax system as they struggle to survive amidst a system that fails to collect more from those who earn more.”

What Exactly is the Carried Interest Loophole?

The carried interest loophole is one where private equity firms managing the investments of wealthy individuals, usually the ultra-rich, allow the wealth managers to receive a share of the investment returns gained by their client.

Those who support the loophole contend that sharing from the profits incentivize wealth managers to ensure profitability of investments. Since the profit realized by the investment will be carried over as a wealth manager’s investment gains and not as compensation, the latter will pay capital gains tax. The capital gains tax rate is lower than the tax rates imposed on ordinary individual income.

While the country’s existing tax system is supposed to work on the principle that greate tax will be collected from those who earn more, the carried interest circumvents the principle. Under the U.S. tax system, long-term capital gains, usually for investment held more than a year, are levied with lower tax rates.

That being the case, wealth or fund managers can simply put forward recommendations for long term investments for their clients, as a way to ensure that they will be receiving carried interest. However, this is likely to change once the “Carried Interest Fairness Act of 2021″ becomes a tax law.

How The Proposed Carried Interest Fairness Act of 2021 Will Affect the Income of Wealth Managers

Wealth managers are financial advisers who offer a broader range of expert financial services, such as developing strategies and plans in managing the legal, accounting and tax aspects of their clients’ wealth, including giving financial advice on investments and retirement plans.

Under the “Carried Interest Fairness Act 2021” proposed by Democratic Reps. Pascrell, Porter and Levin, capital gains tax on carried interest income will no longer apply, as such income will be subject to ordinary income tax rates. While wealth managers can still apply capital gains tax on investments made with their own money, income earned as share of investments as part of managing the wealth of another, will be subject to ordinary tax rates.

In an article published by Forbes Magazine a 15% carried interest gross returns could be reduced to three percent (3%) once the fund expenses, total management fees and taxes are factored in.

Financial adviser PillarWRM cited similar insights in discussing their published book “The Ultimate Guide To Choosing the Best Financial Advisor” (https://pillarwm.com/ultra-high-net-worth-wealth-management-firms/). It gives advice that when choosing a large firm to manage one’s investments and estate, the financial strategy used by large firms in accounting for wealth management costs and taxes tend to erode the performance gains by chipping off only fragments of the costs.

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Pandemic Spurs Increase of Life Insurance Applications Among Americans

February 2, 2021
Yasmin Abbey

Analysis of the U.S. insurance market revealed an increase in applications for life insurance during the coronavirus pandemic, compared to the previous years. Apparently, buying a life insurance policy is now the most logical step as the death toll caused by COVID-19 continues to rise. More so now that the infectious disease has morphed into becoming a deadlier form of contagion.

According to related analytics, the number of life insurance policies sold by the insurance industry since 2020 had increased by double-digits compared to previous years’ sales and before the pandemic outbreak. Experts stated that the most likely reason is because many have come to realize the financial difficulties faced by loved ones in case of their death.

According to MIB, an insurance analytics firm, most of the people who are currently applying for a life insurance policy are under the younger age groups. There was an increase of 9% in the age group of 45 to 59 year olds while it increased by 13% among those aged under 44, and only 0.4% among the older age group of 60 and above. Presumably, these groups have families whose members are still largely dependent on them for financial support.

Why Americans Choose Life Insurance Policies in Particular

Active life insurance policies offer death benefits that would be received by a deceased person’s family, including death caused by a pandemic disease like the COVID-19 contagion.

A life insurance coverage will still be effective even if the deceased person had travelled to a high-risk coronavirus are; albeit subject to certain exceptions. Instances where death occurred while the applicant is still being considered for approval; or if the deceased failed to divulge particular information in his application about previous exposures to COVID-19 transmissions; e.g. travel to a high risk region prior to the application for a life insurance.

Those who are still contemplating to apply for a life insurance policy can still do so but the process might take longer. Moreover, insurance providers will evaluate risks based on the applicant’s location, travel circumstances and behavior, in addition to existing health conditions. Applicants who plan to travel in high-risk regions or countries, should wait for the approval of their application before pursuing any travel plans.

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As New Treasury Sec Open to Cryptocurrency Regulation; Industry Players Anticipate Increased Costs

January 31, 2021
Yasmin Abbey

Now that Ms. Janet Yellen has replaced Steve Mnuchin as new Treasury Secretary, many ask if Mnuchin’s plans to regulate cryptocurrencies will push through. While federal regulation would all the more encourage traditional investors to put their money into bitcoin and other digital currencies, industry players are anticipating the kind of regulation that the government will implement.

Will the government legalize cryptocurrencies and implement policies that will in effect cancel out the benefits of blockchain technology? Will regulations simply focus on enforcing anti money laundering laws and on imposing taxes on ownership and other crypto related transactions?

New Treasury Secretary’s Views and Plans for Cryptocurrency Regulations

Despite her professed reservations for cryptocurrencies, the new Treasury Secretary maintains an open mind toward the prospect of regulating digital money; acknowledging that cryptocurrencies have the potential to improve current financial systems.

During her confirmation hearing, Ms. Yellen said she believes they are mainly used to finance illicit transactions to support terrorism, carry out money laundering and other dark activities that threaten the country’s national security and global financial systems. Yet that very thinking is the reason why she also believes that there is a need for the Treasury Department to work closely with the Federal Reserve Board, federal banks, and securities regulators, in formulating an effective framework that would see to the regulation of cryptocurrency transactions and other fintech innovations.

In her written testimony to the Senate Finance Committee committee Ms. Yellen stated:

”We need to curtail the use of cryptocurrencies for malign and illegal activities and at the same time work on ways on how to encourage their use in legitimate activities.

Although her statements are promising to many cryptocurrency enthusiasts, several have also expressed concern on how the forthcoming regulatory framework will impact the cost of engaging in crypto related businesses.

A Quick Look at How Other Countries Regulate Cryptocurrencies

It is likely that U.S. federal regulators will model their framework after those being implemented by other countries that already recognize the use crypto money as legal. Some of which include:

Requiring providers of blockchain platforms, cryptocurrency exchange operators, providers of crypto-wallets and storage services to register their business with the designated government agency. Registration will of course include payment of licenses and fees as well as compliance with regulatory policies including submission of reports.

Miners that operate on a larger scale will likewise have to register as a business entity, to which all crypto money received as mining rewards will be considered as business income. Those who actively mine for personal purposes will also have to report their mining rewards as other income.

Imposition of VAT Taxes depends on the nature of cryptocurrency transactions, as some types of exchanges could be exempted.

In several U.S. jurisdictions where regulations are already being considered, most states are contemplating the idea of requiring cryptocurrency exchange operators to put up security bonds; or at least maintain a reserve fund in fiat currency.

The general expectation is that federal regulators will try to curb excessive enthusiasm for every class of digital asset, by saddling all sectors of the cryptocurrency industry with additional costs; to perhaps stabilize the price of digital currencies especially Bitcoin.

As an aside to this discussion, one of the newest solutions to beat the volatility of BTC prices nowadays is Bitcoin Mining, as it is currently seen as a less risky alternative to buying BTCs. The growing interest over this option lies mainly on the fact that there are now Bitcoin Farms that offer Bitcoin Mining as a service.

The option eliminates the risk of buying BTC that could drop in value on any day. Moreover, small scale miners will have less to incur as overhead costs by using the service provider’s platform, as opposed to paying high costs of electricity when computing to solve hash puzzles.

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What Are Accident Loans?

December 5, 2020
Sissy Rolo

Auto vehicle accidents aren’t cheap. This is particularly true when injuries and damages are involved as you need to pay for medical bills and services and damage to property among others. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said these expenses raise the sum of the yearly economic impact of automobile accidents to 242 billion USD. Several of those expenditures aren’t directly handed out to the victims of the accident. But according to data coming from the National Safety Council, the separate cost of a fatality due to the accident is more than 1.5 million USD on average, whereas the cost of a disabling injury reaches an average of 90,000 USD.

Settling Accident Expenses

Accident Loans may aid in paying off some of these unforeseen expenses since your case might take a while for it to be solved when you apply for an accident settlement. If you don’t consider Accident Loans as an option to manage to pay for such expenditures, those bills and invoices will reach its due whether you like it or not. How else are you going to pay for those if you need to wait for months or even years to resolve your case and receive your settlement? Furthermore, you aren’t even sure if the case will be in your favor to get a settlement.

What Are Accident Loans?

Accident Loans, also called car accident loans or car accident settlement loans, aren’t actually loans. It is, rather, a cash advance against the possible car accident settlement you have appealed for.  The cash advance isn’t considered a loan since you don’t need to repay this to your accident loan provider if you didn’t win in your case. On the other hand, if you do win the case, you will need to pay back the auto accident loan you applied for.

While there are other funding options to help you with the costs related to the automobile accident you were in, an accident loan is not others as acquiring an accident loan from most providers is very easy and simple as you don’t need to provide much documents in order to be approved for a loan. They mostly rely on all the facts involving your case, hence your credit score as well as your job or your earning capacity doesn’t affect your chances of getting an approval.

Apart from this, accident loans or automobile accident settlement loans are absolutely risk-free. As mentioned, you only will have to pay back the cash advance if you have won the case. This also known as a type of non-recourse funding, wherein all the financial risk is placed on the lender of funding provider and not on the consumer. You could then say that an Accident Loan is a win-win for the consumer.

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Making Sure Your Money Is Secured In A Casino Online Terpercaya

November 17, 2020
Sissy Rolo

The internet could sometimes be a dangerous space especially if you don’t have any idea or take precautionary measures to protect yourself. Online casinos is one of the areas in the internet wherein users should be careful and vigilant.

Online casinos could be a particularly fun and exciting place to play on, and they also have numerous distinct advantages that is connected to them. But these distinct benefits also come with unique risks that users have to be aware of. This is also a reason why players and bettors should only register at and play on a casino online.

Since there is a need for you to deposit your money in online casino sites, knowing what to look for in a casino online terpercaya will ensure you avoid certain problems and dangers.

Determining a Trusted Online Casino – Securing Your Finances

The online gambling and gaming industry, which includes the online casino sector, brings in billions in revenue every year. This is one of the major reasons why there are people that deliberately create ways or perform fraudulent activities to scam and cheat users in order to steal personal and financial details as well as money. Safety is then without a doubt the most fundamental and critical factor to consider when participating and engaging in the online gambling industry. Furthermore, safety is a key factor determining the reliability of a web-based casino.

While it is tough to chase and get rid of deceptive online casinos altogether, various regulations were issued so as to prevent and lessen the number of scams and fraud at online casinos and ensure the safety and security of online casino users.

So, what makes a casino online terpercaya? Let’s have a look at some of the basic factors to bear in mind in order to determine a trusted online casino.

Proper License

Legitimate online casinos have the proper license from the proper authorities. This means that it has gone through a rigorous process of regulatory auditing that ensures the safety and security of its users and that its policies on all the services they offer are fair and transparent. When an online casino has a license, this means that I has passed the process and is authorized to operate.

Gaming Software

There are several top-notch software providers that offer their services to legitimate and reputable casinos only. Knowing which software provider an online casino is powered by will determine its level of safety. However, you shouldn’t only rely on the software provider in terms of the validity and sustainability of an online casino.

SSL Encryption

Another fundamental feature that a reputable and trusted online casino have is its SSL encryption. This technology creates and sets up an encrypted connection between a browser and a web server. This then gives web visitors a safe and secure access to the online casino site. An SSL Encryption is a fundamental indicator that the website is secure.

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Explaining Certificate of Deposit Coupons

November 11, 2020
Shawnee Zeke

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Certificates of deposit are trades provided by banks and brokerage companies where the investor commits to earning money from the certificate of deposit for a particular time period in exchange for providing the investor a guaranteed interest rate.

This interest rate is generally greater than other bank accounts since the lender can rely on the money staying in the accounts for the whole period of the certification of deposit and so invest it into longer-term investments which yield a greater rate of recurrence. In case the cash is removed early, the buyer is going to need to pay a serious punishment, often several weeks worth of attention.

What’s a Coupon?

A coupon will be the stated interest rate on the certificate of the deposit. The expression comes in bonds that have coupons that have to be ripped off the initial bond and must be paid off the interest. The rate of interest given by the coupon is paid in set periods.

Zero-Coupon Certificates of Deposit

Zero-coupon certificates of deposit are the ones that don’t have some interest payments on the account before the maturity date. These certifications of deposit are often priced below their real value to draw investors. Similar cases also apply in select online casinos that offer no deposit coupons.

Tax Implications

Beneath U.S. tax legislation, the investor should pay taxes on interest because it’s accrued as opposed to as it’s paid. This usually means that in case you put money into a zero-coupon certification of deposit which will grow in five decades, you’re liable for paying taxes to the interest accrued from the first year if you file your own taxes despite the fact that you won’t unnecessarily be paid money before the certificate of deposit takes a few decades after.

Calculating Accrued Interest

To compute the amount of interest has accrued in your zero-coupon certification of deposit, then use the formula below where P is the primary, R is the yearly pace, and is the number of days because interest has been compensated: Accrued Interest = P * R / 365 * T by way of instance, in the event that you invested $10,000 in a certificate of deposit which paid a yearly rate of interest of 3%, after 100 days you’d have shrunk $82.19.

Additional CD Payment Procedures

Many certificates of deposit pay attention at predetermined intervals during the period, instead of waiting to take a lump sum payment once the certificate of deposit grows. These certificates of deposit payout the attention to the investor pay off the interest back in the certification of deposit. When it’s paid, the buyer will receive a check or the cash is going to be moved into a different account. This process is preferable for those that have invested in a certificate of deposit to really have a fixed income. In the event the cash is reinvested, it’s added into the principal of this certificate of deposit future interest payments increase. It is more preferable for people who don’t have any demand for the cost and so is buying the certificate of deposit to get the sake rate it gives.

 

ALSO READ: Various Effects of Banking on Small Businesses

 

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Will the US-China Trade Tension Ease Out Under Biden’s Administration?

November 10, 2020
Yasmin Abbey

Even under the new administration, the US-China trade issues Trump left hanging will still put a strain to relationships as Biden intends to take a firm stand. Nonetheless, President-elect Biden is expected to handle the situation with diplomacy and reasonable bargaining as opposed to Trump’s approach of making China a rival country that must be brought down from its powerful economic position. .

Background Information about the US-China Trade Tensions

Subsequent to airing complaints about China’s one-sided commercial practices with the United States, the former president attempted to persuade Beijing through policies. In not succeeding, the government imposed tariffs on imported merchandise from China and negatively affected Huawei with penalties. Still, China was unperturbed because the greater burden of tariffs were imposed on U.S. businesses, which in the long run, rippled to the end-user American consumers.

Trump basically spent most of his term taking drastic actions against China including blacklisting Chinese telecommunications giant Huawei, while Beijing countered by claiming that American technologies were mostly stolen from Chinese companies. The rift has actually blown out of proportion, which makes it very unlikely that a huge change will immediately transpire once Biden takes over as official Presidential of the U.S.

Expectations of the American Chamber of Commerce in China

According to Greg Gilligan, Chairman of the American Chamber of Commerce in China (AmCham China), the issues concerning both countries will not change even under Biden’s administration. In the statement, Gilligan describes Biden’s stand in this US-China trade tension to be fairly hawkish, explaining that domestic politics forbids surrendering the high ground to the other party. Yet unlike the last administration, it’s unlikely that the new U.S. president would send empty threats to Beijung through tweets, but would rather handie the matter with peaceful rhetoric.

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Understanding The Forex Market: What You Should Know

September 18, 2020
Shawnee Zeke

It is hard to believe that Forex remains a relatively unknown financial market, especially considering that it is considered the largest financial market in the world. But when it comes to large-scale economic investments, the first thing most investors think about remains in the stock market.

What is Forex?

The typical images of Wall Street brokers, the numbers on the screen, the highly valued securities of the biggest companies in the world, the bubbles, and the crashes come to mind … 63 times higher than the stock market? Or that in Forex an impressive 5 trillion dollars circulate daily?

But after all, what is Forex, and why haven’t you heard of what is considered to be the biggest financial market in the world?

For more information, you can consult this link, where Forex is defined and explained in great detail. But allow us to make a short summary. In basic terms, Forex (acronym of the English expression for foreign exchange) is the decentralized financial market where all exchange transactions take place. That is, whenever a business involves two types of currency (such as the US dollar and the euro), Forex can play an important role.

As Forex acts predominantly on differences between currency values ​​rather than speculative goods, it can be considered a relatively stable market. It is, moreover, impressive due to the large volumes it involves: it is no accident that the largest investors in the world – such as governments or large multinational companies – invest so much in this market.

In addition to presenting great opportunities for investors, Forex helps entrepreneurs and producers to mitigate the risk involved in multinational transactions, ensuring that future contracts between both do not depend on a possible decrease or peak in the base price of a currency.

Is it possible to invest in Forex independently?

Even though Forex is the largest market in the world, and one of the favorite financial platforms of the great “sharks” of the world economy, Forex can present excellent opportunities for private investors who seek to monetize their capital independently. Fortunately, betting on this promising market has never been easier than it is now. Through the Internet, it is possible to find a number of different brokers that guarantee quick and cheap access to the Forex market. It is possible to learn more about the different types of Forex brokers that are available to the common investor. Check out the Forex brokers that can offer you promising results.

When investing, remember that, as in the stock market, there are a thousand and one possible reasons to justify increasing or decreasing the value of your investments. From supply and demand to political and economic instability, all factors that reflect on the value of a currency must be considered when investing. Although currencies like the Yen are becoming increasingly popular in the financial markets, the “old acquaintances” of the dollar, the pound, and the euro continue to be the preference of investors.

ATTENTION: investment in foreign exchange derivative contracts (FOREX) like all investments, has risks. This article explains some technical aspects and associated nomenclature, we do not make investment recommendations. Above all, information is sought.

Before investing, find out what the risks are, how to mitigate them, and if they suit your risk profile. There is no good investor who is not a well-informed investor.

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Should You Choose A Real Tax Advisor Or A Virtual Tax Advisor

August 31, 2020
Shawnee Zeke

It is often a question of price when it comes to hiring a professional to do your taxes each year. So should you hire a “real” tax advisor, a virtual tax advisor, or just simply hire a tax preparer? “Real” tax advisors seem to be more expensive than virtual tax advisors. After all, there are now entire platforms on which you can make your receipts available, from which specialist staff creates the bookkeeping during the year and the financial statements at the end of the year. But with all your concentration on digitization, you must not lose sight of the fact that there are real people behind a virtual tax accountant. So it doesn’t really matter who you choose.

How To Select The Right Tax Advisor

The price is often an argument in favor of virtual tax offices. However, the effort on their part should not be underestimated. Because so that your bookkeeping is processed virtually, you have to provide all documents virtually. The more work you put in yourself, the less the professionals on the other side of the line have to do, and the cheaper the price. However, real tax consultants who run their own law firm in their own town are now so well networked that many of them can also offer comparably low prices.

It’s a matter of reasoning with a tax advisor when setting prices. What speaks in favor of low prices at local tax consultants is that it is no longer a problem at all that you book from your own office directly on the tax consultant’s server or provide him with the documents digitally in a form that he needs to be able to process within the shortest possible time Time to prepare an accounting or the annual financial statement.

Whether the tax advisor is based in your home town or not only matters if you are looking for a face-to-face conversation and want to take advantage of appropriate advice. As long as the questions are standard, you can work well with a virtual tax office and pick up the phone or use Skype if necessary. The bottom line is that you have to feel comfortable with the arrangement and cope with it.

Software-assisted help – a middle ground

Another possibility is that you can let software support you in preparing your tax documents. Bookkeeping programs are of great help, especially when the effort is still very low and you have certain basic knowledge. Their scope can be adapted to your needs. There are simple programs that are ideal for freelancers or start-ups with a manageable income. The complex issues that mainly affect larger companies are not taken into account here. You need some time, in the beginning, to familiarize yourself with the program and learn to use it. In the end, these software tools minimize your expenditure of time considerably. The intelligent tools help you to find your way through the tax jungle better. The programs are designed in such a way that they are equipped with an interface to meet the tax authorities’ requirements for digital data transmission.

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Potential Financial Benefits Of Playing On Bandarqq Sites

August 27, 2020
Sissy Rolo

Bandarqq is a kind of poker that was quite popular in Indonesia. Today, the game could be played and enjoyed on the internet although there are subtle differences from the traditional poker. Bandarqq is a bit more elaborate and complex compared to casino poker with considerably greater stakes. Players need to focus on the game because of the many imperative details to look out for. Moreover, without plenty of patience, the game is almost impossible to win this game.

Potential Financial Benefits of Playing On Bandarqq Sites

There are many benefits of playing bandarqq especially in terms of financial aspects. With the right site to sign up and play in as well as the proper and effective strategies, players could actually profit from the game.

  • Good Bonuses. Credible sites that offer bandarqq games provide good bonuses which attracts new players and able to keep existing players. Many credible sites offer sign-in bonuses wherein new players are given free money for them to start playing even without depositing an initial amount. This provides an extra income to wager with which increases a player’s chances of winning.
  • Huge Jackpots. Similar to other wagering and casino sites, many bandarqq sites offer players a possibility to win huge jackpots.
  • Referral Bonuses. When you begin playing on trusted and credible bandarqq sites and enjoy the games as well as the bonuses and promotional offers it offers, you could invite other players, perhaps some of friends, to join and earn a referral bonus.

Whether it’s on a bandarqq site or any other gambling site, the fundamental goal of engaging in gambling or betting activities is to win money or gain some profit. It is then imperative for players to have effective gambling strategies to win the games as well as have money management systems or strategies to ensure you don’t and refrain from spend all your gambling money and your winnings.

 

Money Management Tips

If you do your research, there are money management structures that you could employ. But, regardless of the structure you make use of and the rules they have, it is imperative to set and stick to a budget as well as set a win-loss limit reducing your losses and getting into the practice of quitting while still ahead.

To remain in-control of your finances, always remember and adhere to the following:

  • Only wager money that is actually set aside and intended for purposes of entertainment
  • Never make use of funds that are for other necessities such as utility bills, education, mortgage, food, and savings
  • Never wager an amount of money that you cannot meet the expense of losing and stick to your bankroll/budget at all times whether you are losing or winning
  • Always make use of your common sense
  • Bear in mind that the house always has the edge and no money management structure could change that

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Congress Lets $600 Economic Assistance Expire Last July 31, 2020

August 5, 2020
Yasmin Abbey

Congress went into recess for two weeks, whilst letting the $600 economic relief paycheck and the eviction moratorium expire last July 31, 2020 without clarity. As many Americans are still unemployed and while many businesses still unable to pick up where they left off before the COVID-19 lockdown, job opportunities are as elusive as ever.

The only source of financial assistance is the unemployment benefits being doled out by state governments. In addition, the expiration of the eviction moratorium could drive many Americans out of their homes.

The sad part is that the amount of unemployment benefits vary from state to state. Based on the list of unemployment benefits being paid out per state, the amount handed out as financial assistance can be as low as $5 to $20 minimum per week; albeit tending to vary based on the eligibility of the person applying for unemployment benefit. Overall, the average unemployment benefit paid in the U.S. is $6.00 per week.

The following states pay a minimum of below $100 per week: Connecticut ($15), Delaware ($20), Hawaii ($5), Louisiana ($10), Nevada ($16), North Carolina ($15) and Oklahoma ($16). Arizona and Washington have the highest minimum of nearly $190 per week.

However, a meager minimum does not indicate that a state is less generous. The rationale behind the low amount is to make it easier for residents to qualify for state unemployment benefit, which denotes that high a minimum in state financial aid has more stringent eligibility requirements. Hawaai for example pays a minimum of $5 per week but has been noted to rank second in the payment of unemployment benefits in May, which averaged at $466 per week.

Comparison of Eligibility Requirements for State Unemployment Benefit

While Hawaii pays only $5 minimum, a recipient needs ony to meet the following eligibikity requirements:

1.  An applicant must have earned a minimum amount in wages for at least two quarters during the period between April 2018 to March 31, 2019.

2.  An applicant became unemployed through no fault of his own as delineated under Hawaii law.

3.  An applicant must be actively seeking for work and available to work any time.

Although Washing5on pays the highest minimum in unem0loyment benefits, an applicant’s reason will be evaluated before they can qualify.

1.  A person applying for unemployment benefit in Washington must have worked in the state during the recent 18 months; except those who worked for the federal government or the military.

2.  The Washington State Security Department will evaluate the reason why the applicant is unemployed, whether it be due to lay off or firing; or if the applicant quit his job. Evaluations may include reason for military discharge, or involvement in a labor dispute or work strike.

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Blockchain And The System Of Governance

July 28, 2020
Sissy Rolo

Many individuals across the globe carry on to speculate on the future of cryptocurrencies such as bitcoin, the first and most popular digital currency in the market. Crypto supporters believe that cryptocurrency is a worthwhile investment so many sell or/and buy cryptocurrency for various reasons. Many regard cryptocurrencies as the “currency of the future” hence they begin to buy them today before they grow to be more expensive and valuable. Others love the idea of the blockchain technology being it decentralized making it a much safer and secure mode of payment compared to traditional currency, whereas some like these digital currencies as they are increasing in value and carry no interest in the long-term acceptance of these cryptocurrencies as a manner of moving money.

Cryptocurrency – What is it?

As a refresher, cryptocurrency is virtual money, a digital currency that is protected by cryptography making it practically impossible to double-spend, manipulate or counterfeit. Many cryptocurrencies are decentralized networks on the blockchain technology. The blockchain is a distributed ledger that is administered by different computer networks. One of the major features of cryptocurrencies is that they aren’t issued or distributed by a central authority (hence decentralized) supposedly making them immune or resistant to manipulation or inference from the government.

A System of Governance Based on the Blockchain

Many cryptocurrency supporters believe that the blockchain technology could serve a unique function in averting corruption in the government as the technology presents a singular combination of record keeping that is tamper-evident and permanent, real-time, transparent and auditable transactions, as well as an automatic smart contract feature.

Although these features that the blockchain technology possess could help in preventing corruption, the blockchain on its own can’t completely put a stop to crimes or prevent corrupt or crooked actors. Moreover, while blockchain can be compatible with and enhance existing legal frameworks and social structures, its effectiveness is just as great as the system wherein it is a part of.

Without a consistent enforcement of law, precise and specific informational inputs, sufficient technological knowledge, political elites who are supportive and cooperative, as well as societal support and goodwill, a system of governance that is based on the blockchain may not be able to deter corruption.

Nevertheless, major use cases show how the blockchain technology can be used to deal with and manage the weaknesses and frailties in existing systems. The use cases emphasize the significance and value of a multifaceted and thoroughly detailed approach to governance that is blockchain-based as well. In various cases, they too add in crucial limitations as well as drawbacks to the use of the blockchain technology.  Although these restrictions might abate advancements in the technology, it is vital that governments evaluate not only the benefits but also the cost of a system of governance that will be based on the blockchain.

So where can the blockchain technology be used? Below are a few:

  • Public Procurement
  • Land Title Registries
  • Electronic Voting
  • Beneficial Corporate Ownership Registries
  • Disbursements of Grants

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Getting a Broader View of Brokerage Accounts

Arden Davin

You may have heard or read of a brokerage account. But do you exactly know what it is? Basically, this is a type of financial account that can be opened with an investment company like broker firms. However, just before you open with one, it is wise to take time reading broker reviews to ensure that you’re with the right team.

Unlike the traditional bank accounts, brokerage accounts are offering access to diverse investment channels similar to the following:

  • Bonds
  • Stocks and;
  • Mutual funds

In addition to that, brokerage accounts are sometimes referred to as taxable accounts because the investment income within such account is being taxed as capital gains.

How do these Accounts Work?

Basically, you can find various licensed brokerage firms today. Some of these companies may have a hefty price for their service while some have budget-friendly packages.

Most of the brokers let you to create a brokerage account over the web and you don’t need bundles of money in doing so. The truth is, many of the brokerage firms let you to open your account even without initial deposit. On the other hand, you’ll have to fund the account prior to making any purchase of investment.

Fortunately, this can be done easily by transferring money from your savings or checking account or even from a different brokerage account that you have.

In your brokerage account, it is you who has control over your investments and money. You can sell your investments as well at any given time you want. The broker will be managing your account and will act as the intermediary between you as well as the investment that you want to buy. Here, it will be your budget that will set the number of brokerage accounts to have or how much to deposit in each account. Just remember this, there must be no fee in opening a brokerage account.

Difference between a Retirement and Brokerage Account

A standard taxable or brokerage account provides no edge when it comes to investing through the account. Most of the time, the earnings of your investment would be taxed. On the other hand, this also means that there are fewer rules for such accounts. You can pull out your money at any given time and for whatever reason you like and even invest as much as you wish.

Now, if you are shooting for investment for your retirement, then you have to open a retirement account. This is a tax-advantage investment account that is designed specifically for retirement savings. For this reason, there are restrictions placed in these accounts on how and when you could withdraw the money and on how much you can or should contribute per year.

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Preparing and Funding Political Campaign Budget

June 30, 2020
Arden Davin

Whether you believe it or not, but even powerful individuals such as politicians are using långuiden services to fund their political campaigns. After all, they have a budget to follow. This alone makes it more important to strategize a budget for political campaigns. Political campaign budget may go in endless directions that ultimately result to a win.

The thing is, several campaigns bump into problems when they fail to secure written budget or even set unrealistic goals to achieve. Executing the work in drafting realistic budget and at the same time, thoroughly thinking about how, why and when the campaign will be spending money are all critical factors. As we move further, you will see the guiding principles that can assist in developing successful political budget.

Question: How much Money is needed to Raise for the Political Campaign Budget?

A great way of answering this question is by checking at what similar campaigns raised. Additionally, it is necessary to take into mind the past budgets in context. Did it have a competitive general/primary election? Was there a multicandidate field or just a one-on-one race? Was it for an off-year or presidential year election?

All these questions are going to help in having broad ideas of what you might have to raise to become successful.

Establish 3 Budgetary Levels

While you are at the initial stages of working on your political campaign budget, it is best that you establish 3 budgetary levels which includes:

  1. Best-case scenario budget
  2. Middle budget that is more realistic and;
  3. Worst-case budget in the event that the fundraising goes south

It is your job to figure out how you will be spending your money within each stage to get a win.

Question: Where does the Money Come?

It is vital to compile a list of your personal networks and then, put everything together in a spreadsheet. This will include all people who are connected to you whether it is on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and even those who are in your email and phone list.

Go through each and assign a certain amount to how much you think they could give into your campaign based on how you know them and to how strong the relationship you built with them. Once done, add it all up and see how much the total is. Assuming that the total is 1/3 of the budget you initially need, then you may put it under the middle budget category, congrats as you are just on the right path.

Otherwise, then it is time to start rethinking whether this race is something you can still win.

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No Money? Worrying Too Much Won’t Help

April 5, 2020
Yasmin Abbey

If the Covid-19 pandemic is mentally stressing you out over money problems, the best thing to do is to stop worrying too much.

Keep in mind that you are not the only one with money problems. In fact, a great majority of populations all over the world are experiencing financial difficulties as a result of the safety and preventive measures being taken to battle the coronavirus pandemic.

Pew Research Presents Proof that You are Not the Only One with Money Problems

Recently, the Pew Research Center came out with a report, which shows that in the U.S. alone, about 33% of lower income households are highly distressed. About 20% of them are experiencing anxieties over money matters after losing their jobs as a consequence of the Covid-19 crisis.

What is interesting about the information provided by the recent Pew Research report is that 17% of upper-income American households are also experiencing high levels of mental distress over financial problems. Moreover, of those employed by businesses not affected by government orders for temporary closures, about 21% also emerged as belonging to the groups of individuals with high levels of distress.

Health experts are getting concerned that even young people, not just women, in ages ranging between 18 to 29 are currently struggling with high levels of anxiety. This became evident when reports from mental health hotlines revealed a substantial increase in calls, ever since the Covid-19 outbreak unleashed its devastating effect in the U.S.

Of course it is normal to get worried; but obviously, worrying endlessly is of no use. Nearly all of us are in the same boat that is keeping us afloat amidst a great pool of uncertainty. Nonetheless, there are certain steps to take as a means of easing out some of the anxieties, before they get the better of you and your mental health.

Some Tips on How to Reduce Pressures Caused by Money Worries

First off, resist inclinations to focus your thoughts on how your dreams and aspirations for you and your family’s future are starting to crumble before your eyes. Instead, apply concentration on doing all the safety measures that you and your family must undertake to avoid getting infected. Worrying constantly will only cloud your mind, and could make you react in ways that would also stress out those looking to you for strength and guidance.

Secondly, stay on top of the latest news updates but make sure you will intake only information that are truthful, useful and helpful. Avoid reading prophecies of doom or those giving false hopes that can affect your decision-making processes.

Be interested in getting to know more about the financial help that the federal government will mail directly to low-income families. If you are a recipient of financial aid, spend it only on essentials like food, medicines and important provisions for you and your family’s day-to-day living. Aside from the federal government, it is likely that your local and your state governments have also launched programs aimed at providing assistance to needy residents.

Thirdly, stop worrying about defaulting on payments as they fall due, including settlement of an upcoming loan mortgage amortization. Banks, lenders, utility providers and even landlords, have been ordered by local authorities and the federal government to comply with a series of moratoriums.

Such moratoriums include prohibitions against eviction proceedings, against applying past due interest and penalty charges on missed payments and cutting off of utility services, especially concerning displaced workers or heads of a family, who lost their job as a result of the Covid-19 crisis.

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Set Aside Politics To Resolve Corona Spread

March 13, 2020
Shawnee Zeke

The coronavirus keeps the world in suspense – in the truest sense of the word. It is not yet clear what damage it will do. And some still underestimate the situation. A comment by Frank Stüdemann.

The Science and Politics of the Coronavirus Outbreak

Since January, the DPA news agency has sent more than 70 breaking news on the effects of the coronavirus outbreak – 11 of them yesterday alone. You can hardly keep up with all aspects of the health crisis: canceled events en masse, major sporting events in front of empty spectator stands, travel restrictions, aid from the federal government. The whole scenario threatens the global financial crisis and signs of recession are underway.

Investors are selling stocks almost immediately causing chaos in the financial market. The crash is unsettling causing many small businesses to slowly collapse. In response to this sudden shake in the financial market, the government is coming together to provide small business loans (https://moneylendingclub.com/) in order to cope up with huge losses.

The mantra remains: all the restrictions and precautions have only one goal, that is to contain the spread of Sars-CoV-2 as well as possible to protect the weakest among us. It does not get any easier because everyone can transmit the virus without realizing it and showing symptoms. Therefore – it cannot be said often enough – everyone must put the welfare of the community above their own state of mind.

If the whole virus drama has anything good at all, it is at most that it shows us how vulnerable our globalized world is in reality. Microscopic tiny things are able to destroy supply chains, stock exchange prices and oil prices in the world within a few weeks Send basements and ruin the balance sheets of even large companies. But the viral hurricane will also have other consequences: Politicians like US President Donald Trump could be swept out of their positions after poor crisis management and persistent small talk of the situation.

The crisis calls for leaders to set aside politics. The people don’t need that today. What the people need is a solution to the spreading problem, help to those affected, and the right information for people to properly protect themselves. People in the position must control false information from spreading out so as not to trigger panic and unnecessary worry.

We need the public to be informed, to irradicate fear, and to trust that this virus will be resolved. Halt the spread with proper hygiene and sanitation which is really easy to say but hard to do for many ordinary citizens. But everyone has to do their part and that’s what this world needs now.

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Important Financial Tips to Help You Cope with Uncertainty of Year 2020

January 2, 2020
Yasmin Abbey

So today is the first day of the year 2020, which also marks the first day in which your New Year’s Resolution will start taking place. That is, if making yearly resolutions work for you even up to the first few months of the new year.

Actually, now more than ever, it is important for us to take stock of what needs change, or at least some modifications. The  Predictions for 2020 are a mix of good and bad. Taking off from what has transpired in 2019 particularly with how the environment has been reacting to climate change, predictions can be wild.

Regardless of what the year 2020 has in store, there are three important things you have to give careful attention to: Health, Assets and Borrowings

Health is Still Wealth

Keeping yourself healthy and full of stamina is very important especially if you are anticipating hard times ahead. Actually, food to be nutritious, does not have to cost much.

Remember, people from third-world developing countries have fewer choices of food; but the natural limitations do not make them less healthy or more susceptible to diseases. What is important is to eat balanced meals and to live a healthy, active lifestyle.

Make an Inventory of Your Assets

Determine the kind of assets you have, so you will know if you have something reliable to use as fall back in case of emergency.

Now if you have accumulated assets that do not appreciate in value, e.g. clothes, shoes, bags, video games, books and the like, consider selling some of them at eBay, Amazon or the FB market place  . That way you can convert their value into cash that you can set aside for emergency situations. While in storage, make sure they are not exposed or stored in conditions that can bring on molds or mildew.

Control Your Payables and Avoid Taking Out Additional Loans

Keep your borrowings or payables under control by paying on time. Delayed or default payments only increase the amount due. Moreover, avoid making additional purchases on credi,t as doing so only increases the money that will be drawn from your future income. If that will always be the case, the smaller the buying power of your income, especially if it has been stagnant for quite some time.

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Use Your Insurance As An Investment, Get More Out Of Your Money

December 16, 2019
Shawnee Zeke

Insurance is not only for your protection but also as an investment. Get a good insurance consultant to ensure that you don’t get lost in the small print of the providers on the insurance market and that your premium payments really pay off for you. It is important for you to know in advance which insurance and financial investments you need. Sounds easy?

If you take a closer look, you will quickly notice that insurance providers do not always make it easy for you. On the other hand, an insurance consultant will make sure that you avoid unnecessary costs and that you are ideally protected for your personal situation – today AND in the future. So make full use of your options! And keep in mind that the right insurance is not only for your protection, but is also a good investment. An investment for your future.

Which insurance policies are a must?

Not every insurance offered on the market is a must or suitable for you. For instance, final expense insurance may be good for one but not for the other. In the same manner that student insurance is not applicable to all. You also have to make sure that you don’t “over-insure” yourself by taking only the products that offer you the most benefit.

You can only do this by talking to a seasoned and trusted consultant. While consultants are not always easy to find, you can find it easier to locate them through your closest of kin. Highly tested and recommended consultants are the go-to so that you get the best value for money with your insurance packages. You can tailor your insurance according to the protection you need and even use it as an investment for your future.

The optimal insurance – all-round protection and a good investment.

Get a good investment from offered all-round insurance. An insurance consultant can tell you which insurance provider offers the best all-round protection and investment regardless if you are self-employed or an employee if you are unable to work for a long period of time, there will be high loss of earnings that can threaten your existence. Because generally, the general cost of living continues. If you are also one of the millions of citizens who do not hoard a family treasure, take precautions so that you do not have to rely on the minimum state disability pension if the worst comes to the worst.

My house. My car. My dog. Protect your belongings and your wallet.

Depending on your lifestyle and existing property, you must and should take out certain property insurance policies. After all, it’s about not only getting your own laptop replaced but protecting yourself from high claims for damages. At the top is private liability insurance. Some insurance policies are also required by law. For example, if you own a car or a dog.

All-round coverage with the right insurance and at the same time building up assets.

You will notice that if you invest in the right insurance for your life situation and your requirements, you will enjoy optimal protection in the event of damage, at the same time you will invest in the good old-age provision and ensure the security of your family. Find out which insurance policy you are well advised with. Simply find the best insurance consultants in your area to match you with the right insurance for your needs.

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Understanding Pre-Settlement Funding For Your Case

November 7, 2019
Shawnee Zeke

If you are a plaintiff in a lawsuit (like a lawsuit concerning a personal injury claim such as in auto accidents), for sure you would like to win your case. The downside – it takes a very long time to really complete your case via all legal channels. In the meantime, you may need to have cash to help you pay your bills. In this case, you have an option to apply for cash advances against your pending litigation without having to apply for a regular standard loan to pay all the bills. You may consider pre-settlement funding such as pre settlement loans auto accidents. So what is it?

Understand Pre-Settlement Funding

How does pre-settlement funding work?

After applying for a presettlement loan, a funding company will get in touch with your lawyer regarding your case. They will assess your case and from there it will give them a clear idea of the amount you can get against your case. With these details, the company can give you a portion of this amount like a cash advance. As soon as the lawsuit had been finalized, the amount advanced to you (plus a funding fee) will be repaid from the settlement amount. This means you will not get the whole settlement amount, however, you do receive the benefit of getting a bulk of the money straight up.

This type of loan will not require you to pay any monthly prepayment until you win your case. If you do not get any settlement deal in any way, you are not held accountable for paying back the cash advance you have received. This is the risk that the funding company will have to take when they agree to provide you cash advances against your loan. Therefore, while the presettlement loan is referred to as a loan, it is in fact not a loan because the plaintiff does not have to pay anything in case they lose their lawsuit.

Choosing the Best Cash Advance Settlement Business

There are various points to consider when selecting a cash advance presettlement funding company.

  • Make sure the funding company operates within the state. They do not have to be situated in your state, however, they should have the license to work there.
  • Compare offers. Several companies may provide different percentages of your expected settlement amount.
  • Learn how much interest they will charge every month before receiving your settlement money. This really is vitally important since it directly affects the amount of money you might get as soon as your lawsuit is settled.
  • Take a look at the frequency of which the business compounds the interest rate. This could mount up fairly quickly that interest compounded can be more expensive when compared to an extended compounding term.

Regardless of how much money needs you are in, make sure to thoroughly compare and contrast offers to ensure you are making a smart decision. You could consult your lawyer for assistance or talk with a financial consultant should you be unsure of what’s presented to you. An established legal settlement firm must also have a good customer support staff that could discuss everything in very clear words and phrases to provide you with an even better thought of what to anticipate.

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What You Should Need to Know About the D&O Policy

October 27, 2019
Shawnee Zeke

Loss prevention program of an effective D&O has various objectives especially for those under the non-profit organization. The objectives may include but not limited to the following:

  1. Lower down the exposure liability
  2. Developing the ability of the company to hire qualified directors and officers
  3. Prevents time consuming and embarrassing claims
  4. Boosting claims justification and lessen the probable recovery by claimant
  5. Developing the ability of the company to acquire amicable D&O insurance coverage at a reasonable rate.

One way to identify that the directors and officers insurance loss and prevention program is effective are through detailed educational trainings to board members and usage of loss prevention guidelines. However, the succeeding paragraphs will only give emphasis on the identification of different areas in the way D&O loss prevention potential may be present and should be taken into account. This is one of the secrets to have freedom with your finances on your business.

Coverage of a Directors and Officers Policy

D&O insurance policies are formatted for various claims charging harm accountable to the company’s management.

The terms under each policy may either have a broader and narrower coverage compared to the claims contrary to the board. It may become broader once the policy covering the claims is against the company together with the staff and with the exclusion of the board members. On the other hand, the policies tend to be narrower once all types of claims versus the boards are not being covered. Moreover, this kind of insurance do not include body injury or damage of the property under its coverage.

Features of Directors and Officers Policy

What the companies’ needs must determine the features that entail inside the D&O policy. These features may identify the primary benefits and possible drawbacks of the policy. The items below may be included in its desirable features:

  • Wide coverage
  • Justification costs for claims exclusion
  • Insurable incidents coverage which happened before the effectivity period of the policy
  • Protection of directors unaware of the misrepresentation in the application policy
  • Sufficient notice of cancellation

Primarily, it would be based on the circumstances of the company and even the involved employees in case of determination of the worth of the additional features. It is very much preferred that the coverage would be extended to the company, staffs, and other employees excluding the board members. Companies with low financial budget must be amenable on both the costs advancement and deductibles, even the co-payments, if there is any.

Tabulation of the features of D&O Insurance Policy

  1. Insurance premium
  2. Policy restrictions
  3. Deductible
  4. Participation
  5. Coverage for the company, subsidiaries, advisory boards, employees, and volunteers
  6. Covered claims
  7. Exclusions
  8. Justification of claims exclusions
  9. Advance expenses
  10. Prior acts coverage and extended reporting period availability and cost for claims-made policy
  11. Protection coverage for innocent directors
  12. Cancellation and notice

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The Forex Market – What Is It For?

October 18, 2019
Sissy Rolo

The foreign exchange market, also known as forex market, is the market wherein participants sell, buy, exchange as well as speculate on various currencies. The said market is regarded said to be the world’s largest financial market where it processes transactions worth trillions of dollars on a daily basis.

Some participants use forex vps as it permits them to continuously maintain operations in force without wearing out their personal computers. Hence, lost time or interruption because of power failures or connectivity glitches is immaterial. This is a relief since money is in the balance. Moreover, since forex vps is continuously connected or online, it could update as well as reboot beyond the week of trading.

What is the Forex Market for?

The forex market isn’t directed by a solitary market exchange, but comprises a worldwide network of computers as well as brokers from all over the world. Central banks utilize their enormous buying and selling abilities to adjust exchange rates over their activities in the open market and in numerous cases will carry it out not with the intent of profit, but for a number of reasons regarding policies.  Brokers of forex also function as market makers, can post bid as well as ask prices for a pair of currency that varies from the bid that is most competitive in the market. So, what is purpose of the market?

Liquidity

The liquidity of money is the major working force for every type of market and in terms the Forex market, it is the vastest financial market in the world which trades about 1.9 trillion dollars daily. Due to the trading of the commodities which is about a billion dollars per day as well as the trading of the US stock market about 200 billion dollars per day, the foreign exchange market is beyond more gainful.

Trading Time

For any type of business, trading time is extremely vital. The Forex market stays open for 24 hours, excluding the weekends, recognizing the need of the traders. That denotes that in the US, the market formally opens on Sunday at 3:00 pm (EST) and closes on Friday at 5:00 (EST). Moreover, it allows traders who are active to pick the trading times in line with their need and to trade

Trading Costs

The transaction cost in the Forex market is merely the difference of the price of the buy and sell price of every pair of currency. There are without other fees, let alone the fees for brokerage. In the market as well as the commodity market, there are costs and brokerage fees involved. Despite the utilization of discount brokers, those charges tally up. The majority of every no hidden fee is germane in the market of foreign exchange.

Minimal Investment

You could open a trading account for Forex with ease by shelling out a $300.00. Today, the fee is even greater.

 

 

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Four Helpful Tips When Getting An Equity Release

October 12, 2019
Shawnee Zeke

What is an equity release? The equity release scheme enables you to gain access to your property’s worth (value) to get more cash in retirement living. However note that equity release can be a costly, lifetime, commitment.

How to Calculate Home Equity

If you are faced with a pension deficiency or must satisfy a sudden expenditure, equity release could be an appealing source of the needed funds. It enables you to make use of the wealth you have accrued in your property or home but without the inconvenience of moving.

If you have spoken to a financial adviser and you have decided that equity release is the right move for you, here are a few tips to take into account.

1. Do not borrow the total amount you require all at once. The quicker you acquire the money, the more costly it is, because the interest has more time to compound. Thus acquire as few as you will need today and wait until the next time you will need to acquire cash again.

For example, if you think you need 40,000 pounds to live for 20 years, take what you need now and wait around to take more until eventually necessary. Setting a lifetime mortgage with a little strategy can simplify this process and make it less costly.

2. Make sure that the company you are working with is a member of the Equity Release Council. Members of this trade body made a pact of no negative equity guarantee. Members of the council will ensure that you will never be borrowing more than the value of your home.

3. Seek advice before submitting any equity release application. To get the best deal, contact a financial adviser or an independent mortgage broker with a proposal of your intent.

4. Equity release may affect your benefits. Having cash instead of a property may impact eligible benefits such as pension credits and universal credits. Therefore, if you are eligible for these rights, first check the implications.

Try using an equity release calculator

Look for an equity release solution to suit your needs. Should you be aged 55+, try out an equity release calculator to get an immediate perception of the amount of money you can discharge. No matter if you are seeking to create home changes, get additional for your retirement or faced with a mortgage deficiency, you could take advantage of a tax-free cash one time or gain access to a versatile borrowing service. Seek an equity release advice from experienced advisors who are receiving salaries and bonuses instead of those working on a commission basis.

Making choices on how to fund your retirement living is essential so it is really worth listening to all advice that’s going to benefit you in the long run.

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Are You Prepared in Case Recession Becomes Imminent?

October 4, 2019
Yasmin Abbey

Talks of recession taking place have fueled fears of another spate of massive job layoffs similar to what transpired during the 2008 financial crisis. Although Wall Street financial analysts are saying that a recession is not at all forthcoming, it would be best to at least take some precautionary steps in case the current economic downturn continues on a trend that will lead to another recession.

According to the recent GOBankingRates survey, about ⅔ of the 1000 Americans surveyed are ill-prepared when it comes to facing another Great Recession. Actually, that is what is making many jittery, since they have yet to take actions that can make them more resilient against the adverse effects of business closures and job losses.

Being prepared does not necessarily entail prevention of recession because there are other factors affecting the economy. The point is, instead of just waiting with a look-see attitude, taking proactive steps that work toward bolstering one’s financial resources is a better way of moving forward during uncertain times.

Some Suggestions on How to Prepare for Another Recession

Individuals can consider taking actions that can make them better prepared, if in case the downhill trend continues for a prolonged period. According to economists, recession happens if the economic decline continues or worsens during a continuous six-month period.

1. The first step of course is to start saving even in little amounts. Instead of squandering extra money on non-essentials, save a few dollars to build an emergency fund. Bolstering whatever savings you have with an emergency fund will help you overcome anxieties over an imminent recession.

2. Since you current income may be just enough to help you meet the current costs of living, taking on an extra job or a side job can provide you the money you can save in preparation.
Eat right and live a healthy lifestyle in order to avoid incurring additional health care costs that could erode your savings.

3. Avoid the lure of get-rich quick schemes because these are the times when scrupulous individuals will offer you faster and easier ways to earn extra money.

4. Do not put your investment money in just one basket. Moreover, constantly read on business news and analysis of financial reports in order to get an inkling of stocks backed by bad or non-performing businesses.

5. Refrain from using your credit cards too often, because doing so will only yield interests that represent additional costs. If in case you made a credit card purchase, settle the total cost immediately in order to prevent interests from compounding.

https://youtu.be/EroLA-uk3AI

6. Start selling items you no longer need, so you can convert them into cash that you can save. Do this while people can still afford to buy even second-hand offers, as it will allow you to trade them for reasonable prices.

Saving and preparing does not necessarily mean sacrificing comfort or living a less enjoyable life. It is mostly about making thoughtful decisions based on the principles of practicality, security and flexibility.

Research well on options so you can zero in on choices that bring more or less the same benefits at lower costs, such as those offered by trusted online resellers. Cost-saving options can bring in additional money that goes to building your emergency fund. However, make sure you are not exposing yourself to unnecessary risks when deciding on practical choices.

Most importantly, stay flexible since economic downturns as a prologue to recession can bring changes that will require you to make certain adjustments. .

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The Need For Collaboration Between Politics And Crypto Developers For Clear Regulations

September 28, 2019
Sissy Rolo

As the market on cryptocurrency has developed and progressed, many investors make use of crypto signals for trade suggestions and ideas to buy, sell or trade digital currencies at a certain time and price. Crypto signals could be very helpful, especially with the numerous types of digital currencies that currently in the crypto market.

The Need For Clear Crypto Regulations

Many industries have embraced the concept of blockchain and cryptocurrency because of its many benefits. However, when facebook has announced its plan to release its own digital currency in 2020, it has rattled a lot of political figures and lawmakers in the government.

Because of this, the government called for its regulation. But, for the crypto industry and politics to truly benefit, they both have to look for some commonalities. Regulators are all the time more expected to include digital assets or cryptocurrencies into the worldwide economy. Moreover, as the general public and communities around the globe become more knowledgeable of and responsive to digital currency, authorities and governments have to acknowledge and accept cryptocurrency as part of the system.

Companies of cryptocurrency as well as those who adopt it frequently necessitate a legal structure to be able to sell and/or buy crypto assets. But, legislators and politicians appear to be taking things slow in terms of the adoption of cryptocurrency.

As increasingly more nations are prepared to back the global regulation for digital currencies, cryptocurrency and politics might come to be more tightly and strongly connected. But, many officials of the government still link digital currency with high-level risks, especially subsequent the revelation of Facebook’s plan to release their own cryptocurrency, Libra.

Why Many Governments Disapprove Of Cryptocurrency

Although a lot of nations don’t have well-defined legislations for digital currencies, a number of lawmakers and government officials who support these digital assets are brave enough to express their stance. Still, majority of governments are concerned and have reservations with regards to cryptocurrencies, primarily because these digital currencies are decentralized, making it difficult to control as well as regulate.

In contrast, fiat currencies are the foundation of the monetary and financial policy of a nation and could greatly influence the economy of the nation.

Traditional systems of finance give power to governments as well as allow them to control and regulate the quantity of money to flow in an economy. Furthermore, lawmakers could drive investments and/or consumption to create jobs, boost exportation, or prevent inflation. It is a system that is complex that digital currencies can mess up or disturb permanently if it is endorsed and permitted by politics.

Blockchain being disruptive in nature necessitates politics as well as developers of cryptocurrency to strongly collaborate. It is essential for individuals to have clear and well-defined laws and policies that would allow them gain from digital currency as unlawful usage is limited and investors are protected. This could be extremely challenging to accomplish since creating and adoption laws and regulations entails an extensive understanding of the concepts of blockchain and cryptocurrencies.

 

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Isolating Fraudsters from Legitimate Lenders

September 21, 2019
Arden Davin

When running a business regardless of its size, it automatically requires you to have exceptional ability of evaluating the financing options for your business. At one point or another, your business will reach a time when it needs cash infusion. And when that time comes that the only option is to borrow money, fledging and startup businesses unfortunately shuts down.

With the advent of online lending companies such as https://www.californiatitleloans.org, it has given small businesses an alternative option to borrow money. The beauty about these kinds of services is that, they’re processed quickly and applying for one is fairly convenient. On the other hand, just before you do business with any lenders online it is vital to ascertain that the lender is legit and that your business’ identity is safe in their hands. The reason for this is, identity theft is a common case online.

And for businesses, it costs them billions of dollars every year and the cash-strapped businesses become the primary target among fraudsters and hackers.

Take advantage of Technology

Well, it is fortunate that with the advancement of financial technology, it has become safer and more secure to do online lending. Here are few of things that any interested individual has to know when it comes to online lending. By keeping yourself informed, you’ll be able to avoid becoming the next victim of identity theft and other related online lending issues.

Identifying Fraudsters and Scammers

For the past several years, the number of hackers targeting the identities or money of businesses have increased. Oftentimes, scammers find its next victim through

  • unsolicited texts
  • emails or;
  • malware popup on a website

Your initial line of defense towards any scam, if it sounds too good to be true, then it probably is. It’s your responsibility as well to know the latest strategies that fraudsters and thieves are using to hit their next target.

What makes an Online Lender a Legitimate Choice?

There are few things to be taken into account when considering offers from online lenders on top of their physical address. Luckily, the advances in financial technology made it simpler for legit lenders protect your information and for businesses to identify who are legitimate lenders online and not.

Couple of things that you need to watch out for include but not limited to:

  • Strong encryption
  • Security protocols
  • Website background check
  • Watch out for any complaints

By learning about these factors, you’ll get to have an idea which lenders online are good to do business with and which to avoid.

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Various Effects of Banking on Small Businesses

September 1, 2019
Shawnee Zeke

The Impact of Shrinking Financial Policy

In regular days, while banks are not open to bad credit business loan, there are financial institutions that are ready to extend this service to businesses with bad credit. However, during an economic downturn, extending these types of loans even from specialized lending services could be a challenge. This results in many businesses facing the possibility of taking drastic measures like retrenchment and cost-cutting.

People in the business face an economic downturn in many ways.

  • First, as unemployment and household income decrease, consumer spending decreases and employers’ sales decrease.
  • Second, banks have begun to tighten credit policies and offer small businesses with small loans and credit lines.

Changes in bank policy are common and can have a systematic impact on the economy. During the recession, cash demand is high, which can widen the bank’s impact on businesses.

Regulations in Banking

As a result of the Great Depression, Congress ratified a comprehensive law, the Dodd-Frank Act in 2010. This is aimed at overhauling the financial services industry. This sudden reform is fairly common following an economic downturn. For example, the “Grass-Steagall Act” (another financial reform law) was enacted in 1933, soon after the Great Depression. However, some believe laws like Dodd-Frank and Glass-Steagall will bring uncertainty to banks, allowing very few loans to small businesses.

There are two reasons for this.

  • First, new laws create uncertainty about how courts interpret the language.
  • Second, reform laws reduce the freedom of banks to take risks and make big profits.

Thus, banks can only offer loans to companies with the least risk, and that these companies can repay them.

Availability of Credit

The mixture of an economic downturn and new monetary laws has reduced overall loan availability. Like individuals, banks lose money whenever the market falls. As the market worsens, bank lending decreases. In addition, worsening market conditions could possibly require banks to demand more cash reserves to secure enough money to repay their debts. The more reserves held, the less money can be loaned to companies and the harder credit supply gets.

Rates of Interest

The rates of interests are one more part of banking policy that makes an impact on small to medium companies. The Federal Reserve takes on a key role in bank lending and small business lending rate decisions. The Fed decides on the nominal funding rate, which is the interest rate that banks receive when they make short-term loans.

The set rate determines what the bank should pay to provide additional funds to its customers, thus affecting the interest rates offered to consumers. As a result, the Fed encourages banks to lend to small businesses and individuals by lowering interest rates and reducing the cost of obtaining additional funds.

A low-interest rate often allows companies to obtain bigger loans at a lower cost. This indicates that the growth rate for SMEs should be expected when the interest rate is high.

The Amount of Risk Involved

The amount of risk likewise plays an important role in bank policy and affects small business loans. When banks determine that market risk is increasing (usually during recessions), they tend to spend their funds for safer investments. For example, in high-risk markets, US Treasuries are becoming more attractive.

When banks invest money in low-risk assets, they reduce the finances offered for small business and consumer loans. This trend can have a big impact on your potential to grow your business.

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U.S.- China Trade War Wages On as China Vows to Take Up the Fight to Wherever It Leads

August 3, 2019
Yasmin Abbey

The U.S.- China trade war is not about to end as China is all set to buckle down and bring the fight to wherever the U.S. wants it to go. The Chinese government remains unfazed by Trump’s latest warning of making good on his threat of imposing a 10% tariff on the remaining $300 billion worth of Chinese goods coming into the U.S.

Trump announced the tariff will take effectivity on September 01, 2019, obviously giving China up to August to agree to his trade conditions. Although negotiations are expected to resume by early September, it appears that China does not intend to budge, seeing that Trump’s latest threat is having a negative impact on the U.S. economy.

Current data revealed that Trump’s exclusive tariff on China has been limiting trade flows, showing a 0.3 dip in U.S. trade deficit. According to the U.S president, one of the reasons why he is renewing his threat is because China’s goodwill commitment of increasing imports of U.S. agricultural products, has not been fulfilled. Based on latest trading analysis, exports to China remains unchanged.

Trump told reporters at the White House that

“The United States cannot just go and enter into an even deal with China.” “We have to go and make a better deal with China,”

China Announced Readiness to Face Trump’s Latest Threat

Last Friday, after Trump tweeted his additional 10% tariff warning to China, Hua Chunying, the spokesperson of the Chinese Foreign Ministry, immediately made it clear that the Chinese government is standing firm on its position.

In a news briefing held in Beijing, Hua told reporters that China will not give in to any intimidation, maximum pressure or blackmail and that they are still hoping the U.S. president “gives up on his illusions” that China will simply do what he demands. In its stead, Hua said her government is looking to re-negotiate based on equality and mutual respect. In May 2010, trade negotiations of the 13-month trade war failed when U.S. envoys accused China of reneging on previous commitments

China’s new ambassador to the United Nations, Zhang Jun, remarked that Beijing intends to enforce necessary countermeasures, as a means of protecting its rights against moves that only demonstrated Trump’ irresponsible and irrational act. Zhang added,


“China’s position is quite clear; if the U.S. wishes to talk, then we (China) will talk, if the U.S. wants to fight, then China will fight.”

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Trump Administration Causes Stress to Americans’ Finances

July 24, 2019
Sissy Rolo

There are numerous reasons as to why many take out consumer loans, such as those offered by forbrukslaan.com, wherein there is no need for a collateral to back it up, unlike other types of financing. Whether it’s for purchasing services and goods, consolidating debts, or paying off medical bills or credit cards, taking a consumer loan is an alternative for individuals looking for an immediate financial ease. 

Americans are Stressed about the Impact of the Trump Administration on their Finances

According to survey, many Americans are stressed about the influence of the administration of Trump on the financial aspect of their life. For instance, a new Student Loan Hero Survey indicates that although merely 35% of individuals who participated in the survey deemed that the policies of Trump have wounded the economy, 60% expressed that they are stressed on how President Trump may disturb their finances advancing forward.

A few of this might be because of how President Trump communicate, which is without preparation, specifically as the very first leader of the United States to implement the use of Twitter as a means of publicizing policy decisions as well as a way of interacting with the heads or leaders of the globe. Over half of those who participated in the survey revealed that the tweets of the President had an adverse bearing on the economy of the nation.

Political Uncertainty Leads to Financial Concerns

According to entrepreneur John Rampton, the uncertainty enveloping the results related to the presidency of Trump is great. These kinds of uncertainty or doubt are likely directed towards worry and apprehension in all aspects of life, which includes finances. In fact, as per the 2017 survey “Stress in America” by the American Psychological Association, Americans’ principal concern was “the future of our nation.” And coming in second is money or finances.

Looking at the survey, it matches with the results of the survey of Student Loan Hero that show that majority of Americans are concerned that their personal or individual situations will become worse as the presidency of Trump advances.

In actuality, 60% of the survey participants specified that they sense a certain stress level when they ponder on how the administration of Trump administration will impact or influence their situation with regards to money or finances. Moreover, Democrats as well as voters who are unaffiliated aren’t the only ones concerned. Turns out, a substantial 25% of Republicans stated some stress level over the influence of the policies of the White House on their wallets.

Nonetheless, regardless of what you may feel towards president Trump as well as and how he will impact one’s finances and the economy whilst he is still seated in office, there are a number of things that you could carry out to better your situation. Create a financial plan and come up with a strategy to protect yourself as well as your finances in times of recession. By doing so, you’ll be ready and better regardless of who the president is.

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Know the Risks of Getting a Loan before Applying for One

July 14, 2019
Arden Davin

Do you need a loan? Lucky for you, the number of loan options has exploded these days. However, if you want to get it easy and fast, getting personal loans from Zebra loans would be ideal.

You may take advantage of this open-ended loan for almost any purpose you want. To give you an example, this can be used for:

  • Funding adoption
  • Paying for utilities you lack of
  • Settle high interest on credit cards

On the other hand, just before you carry on signing the contract and feel the excitement of getting the money, you need to take a look as well of the associated risks when getting such loans.

An example for this one would be the interest rate associated to this. Simply because you are qualified for such loan, it does not automatically mean that you take it. There are personal loans that have interests of 10 percent and below while others could be 3 or 4 times higher than that. As for the interest, it will depend on your current credit score but at the end of the day, lenders have the power of charging you how much they wanted. Of course, this is so long that it falls within the law.

Penalties

Can you make payments of your loan earlier than the expected date?

Depending on the type of personal loan you acquire be it from a peer to peer lending, bank or other means, there are lenders who favor of paying the loan earlier than others.

If this is something that attracts you as well, it is necessary to read the fine print to ensure that there’s no penalty involved.

In addition to that, it is important to know how much it would cost you to have the loan money be transferred to your bank account. Much like mortgage, there will be varying fees for upfront origination.

Privacy Concern

Both credit union and bank loans implement strict privacy. But there are alternative options that might be less formal. Still, lenders must respect in full view privacy laws with the same standards as for banks.

While it is true that applying for personal loans can save you from urgent situations and other emergencies, it is important that you take your decision with a grain of salt. This is to ensure that you’re not just being drawn to the idea of having quick cash and then, regret your decision at the end.

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