Financial Hardship – An Experience Common to Many Australians

Posted on by Jacki Gwenevere

A 2019 report released by the Australian Financial Security Authority showed that one of every 5 Australians experience financial hardship as a daily reality.

In all probability, the statistics has changed for the worse, after the COVID-19 outbreak that immediately followed the 2019-2020 catastrophic bushfire. The resulting loss of business income or of regular employment is again, driving many Australians to seek relief from their monthly loan payments by way of loan modification; or other means by which they could temporarily pause or reduce monthly loan payments.

Financial hardship is a circumstance not uncommon to many Australians, even if the country ranks among the world’s wealthiest nations. It’s just that many Australian communities are often exposed to natural disasters that often occur one after another. Such events have great impact on vulnerable citizens, since the damages wrought by the natural hazards adversely affect their ability to recover quickly from financial difficulties.

Financial Hardship and Australia’s Consumer Credit Protection Law

In recognizing the frequency of the economic hardship that many Australians go through during challenging times, the country’s National Consumer Credit Protection Act of 2009, gives citizens the right to request modifications of their credit or loan obligations on the ground of financial hardship — not only as a result of a hazardous event/s but also due to illness, loss of employment or even family breakdown.

Lending institutions on the other hand, are under obligation to consider such requests; but given the right to base their approval on their own set of standards. Now here’s the thing, not all Australians have levels of financial literacy that enable them to obtain the best loan modification deal that can provide them the financial relief they seek. In fact, not many are unaware that there are licensed finance brokers who can negotiate a hardship variation arrangement on their behalf.

The team of financial experts of National Loans Australia (NLA), for one, offers their financial services by representing clients seeking to apply not only for hardship variations, but also for refinance deals, as not all borrowers are eligible for hardship modifications.

Keep in mind however, that unscrupulous individuals are most active during times of financial hardship. That is why before engaging a finance broker, it would be best to be on the safe side, by engaging the services of a licensed finance broker.

Ways by Which Finance Brokers at National Loans Australia Can Help

As finance brokers, the financial services offered by NLA start by providing clients and would-be clients, with a free to use, online Loan Pre-Approval tool. The purpose of which, is to find out the financing options available to an individual based on a bank’s or other financial institution’s assessment of the applicant’s personal information, economic condition and credit history.

As licensed brokers, the goal of every NLA broker is to help a client obtain a finance deal that is most beneficial, and at the same time, suitable to their present and future capabilities to settle a financial obligation. While some clients are not eligible for a hardship variation that will reduce their monthly payments, the NLA team can help by negotiating for a refinance deal.

In their 24 years of experience, this group of financial brokers have maintained well-founded relationships with many Australian lenders, including the non-traditional fintechs. While a hardship loan-modification can be negotiated only with the original lender, a refinance deal is different. A loan refinance can be negotiated with another lender who will agree to provide funds to pay off an existing loan with the original lender.

That being the case, the funds provided will then be the refinance loan that a client will settle with the new lender; but under better and more manageable repayment terms. A refinance loan actually takes away the past due interests and penalty charges that tend to make an outstanding loan more difficult to pay.

How to Invest in Physical Gold in Canada?

Posted on by Regan Andre

Gold Bars

 

Finding out how to purchase real gold from Canada, and even silver can help save you effort and money in creating a wise portfolio.

Sold on the notion of buying gold in Canada? Unsure about the best method of getting your hands on a few? This guide can allow you to realize how to purchase real gold from Canada. To begin with there are a couple of alternatives for purchasing gold normally that may be acceptable for you. Below, I’ll walk through the very best ways of how to purchase real gold from Canada.

The very ideal selection for you might not be exactly the exact same as for me personally due to our exceptional financial goals and individual lifestyle options. While only about nobody will whine about acquiring gold for a present, preferences for your design change. Secondly, one of the numerous methods of purchasing real gold, a few are usually cheaper in some time frames. I am going to explain why due fine (99.9%) gold bullion–proceed to get a fast breakdown of what’s silver –for example, is normally safer in contrast to semi-fine (less than 99.9%) gold.

What Options Are There in Purchasing Gold in Canada?

To get a more thorough overview of the various alternatives, you may want to consider how to purchase gold (that literally means achat or in French) in Canada, normally. I love to divide gold investing in three easy schools. They’re buying:

  1. The actual item (bullion – coins/bars);
  2. Something which possesses the actual item (ETF – exchange-traded fund);
  3. Or something that’s influenced by the actual thing (purchasing stock in gold-producing businesses ).

Of these various schools of thought, I’m a firm believer in “1. Invest in the actual item,” and here is why.

There are just two and a half means to invest directly from actual gold. You can do this by purchasing physical gold, so you can purchase a contract valued in gold, and eventually you can buy a part of ownership in something which owns gold. In the first scenario, you can put money into silver or gold non-fine gold. The next means is to purchase a contract like a contract for the future purchase price of gold at a particular cost. Eventually, they can purchase into a fund that owns valuable metals, even though that’s more of “2. Purchase something which possesses the actual thing.”

ETFs are resources that are handled by golden specialists, which means that you stand a better prospect of earning money than you would by yourself. The cost of gold will continually have an effect on gold ETFs. In the end, ETFs do not really own gold. They simply trade at a golden indicator like the CBOE Gold Index, for instance. The inventory of gold-producing businesses relies on the organization’s individual performance, instead of the operation of gold as a product.

Why am I focusing on the best way best to obtain physical gold in Canada? As a firm believer in precious metals as a hedge, the physical stone has a couple of benefits such as (but not confined to) the next. These start with this simple fact that you simply hold it there are not any intermediaries to possession. Secondly, physical gold could be marketed to nearly anybody, anywhere. That doubles when it’s fine bullion that arrives out of an LBMA accredited refinery. At length, real gold is a whole lot more privacy-respecting than some of those other selections out there.

 

ALSO READ: Do The Early Work of Investing For Your Future

 

Which Are The Basic Actions To Purchase Real Gold in Canada?

Simply place, you wander in the golden shop and cover it. Well, it is not that simple. Allow me to break down the sentence for you. To begin with, “walk to” may mean that you locate a neighborhood gold trader or much more generally that you purchase gold on the internet. Secondly, “the golden shop” may be a valuable metals trader, a bank, or possibly a jeweler. Third, “cover it” may mean anything from money to a cable transfer. A complete load of variables will find out that for you, from the place to the sum you purchase.

Actually, the very first step to purchasing gold is locating a trusted supplier. You want to locate a business that provides competitive and affordable rates, superb customer support, and secure delivery (or possibly reliable storage solutions). There are various businesses with a superb reputation in Canada, and you have the chance to purchase elsewhere. I’ve not ever seen a lender beat anybody’s prices and very honestly the choice and wait times are still so dreadful. In reality, I’ve obtained bank-branded valuable metals more economical from traders than in the banks.

After locating your trader and prior to buying your gold, then you need to make a decision as to what kind of gold you want, for example, gold bars or coins. You’ll also have to choose what mint’s, e.g. that the Royal Canadian Mint, or even Refiner’s, e.g. Republic Metals Corp., the merchandise you would like. Just make sure you steer clear of purchasing post-office coins to your very own budget.

A Primer on Several Kinds of Gold

There are a variety of benefits of purchasing coins over bars, and also vice-versa. You’ll have to educate yourself on the best choices out there. There’s not any true right or wrong response on which you purchase. It only depends on what you actually prefer.

Much like any investment, there are numerous elements to take into account like the worth of your investment, as your merchandise premiums, the length of time you intend on maintaining it, and in which you plan on keeping it. Coins are generally slightly pricier than gold bars, but they’re easier to shop for. Many traders enjoy their beauty and lack over what they do to gold bars. Therefore, you might locate them easier to market at a top cost.

The American Eagle gold bullion gold along with Canadian Maple Leaf gold coins will be the most commonly-traded therefore it’s going to be easy to market these once the time arrives to do so. But, Canadians cried: American golden eagles aren’t nice (99.9%) gold bullion. Instead, they’re produced from 22K (99.17%) stone. Therefore, they’re not regarded as investment goods and therefore are subject to Canadian sales taxation.

What is more, the 0.9999 Canadian Maple Leaf is possibly the most famous bullion of all, so this might be an additional consideration.

All these are generally provided as 1oz coins, also you’ll be able to purchase as many as you need. You’ll have to choose whether you’ll save the golden yourself or cover it in order for it to be kept in a vault. Traditional vaulting services could be expensive, but you can have the ability to detect a cheaper option, like an in-home bank or safe.

Premiums

A superior is an added price charged over the gold spot price. Reputable silver traders charge investors little percentage premiums. The best approach to prevent paying premiums is to purchase gold bars rather than coins. This is a result of the bigger unit dimensions since it cost significantly less to manufacture. It cost the exact identical amount to purchase a 1-kilo bar as to purchase 10 100g gold bars for the specific same reason. As a hint, if you intend on maintaining your gold for quite a while, then bigger gold bars are all advisable.

Additionally, consider whether you would like to purchase insurance in your investment. This is normally recommended when keeping your precious metals in the home.

With this information available, you can purchase whatever gold bullion you’re comfortable possessing. Diversification is vital in this market because it’s in any other sort of investment. Look at mixing and matching different choices.

By studying many distinct traders, you’ll have the ability to find a good idea of the choices that are available to you.

 

British-Owned NatWest Group to Brand All Debit Cards as Mastercards

Posted on by Jacki Gwenevere

The majority British-owned NatWest Group, recently announced that all its banking brands will be converting and issuing debit cards using the Mastercard label.

The move indicates Mastercard’s drive in ramping up its operations not only across the UK, but also in Scotland and Northern Ireland. The NatWest-Mastercard agreement will cover approximately 16 million debit cards already issued by NatWest Banks, the Royal Bank of Scotland, Coutts snd Ulster Bank.

Although Mastercard is generally known as a credit card company, the firm prefers to be recognized for its technology and capability to provide global payment services.That being the case, it continues to work with financial and banking institutions that in turn offer the Mastercard brand to clients and customers through issuances of credit, debit and prepaid cards.

Mastercard Deemed as a Perfect Match for the NatWest Group

Since the Natwest Group offers both personal and business banking brands as well as insurance and corporate financing, Mastercard’s global payments technology can strategically connect NatWest banks and its brands, to different institutions transacting with consumers, merchants, government offices and other financial organizations.

Mastercard’s popularity led to the growth of its global base; building a vast network of merchants, settlement banks and financial institutions whose end users have expressed satisfaction. The global payments company takes pride that the seamlessness of completing a Mastercard transaction is due to the fact that processing takes only mere milliseconds.

The Pros Of Hiring A Debt Collection Agency

Posted on by Paden Krystelle

Your client previously assured you that your invoice will be paid, however they leave the invoice unpaid and ignore and don’t respond to your letters and calls. When you have exerted all possible measures to get paid, what else can you do? One of the best options to consider is to hire an experienced debt collection agency as they are aware of and understand the different laws and legalities in order to quickly and effectively recover what is due to you.

Hiring A Professional Debt Collection Agency – The Benefits

For your business or company to remain afloat, you need to collect the payments for the services you have rendered or the products that you have sold. Sadly, not every customer or client that you have are reliable. Running a business isn’t easy and you might not have all the time to check all unpaid invoices, send letters and make calls as attempts to collect these delinquent debts. The older these delinquent debts get, the more difficult it will be for you to collect them. If your demands are of no avail, hiring a professional debt collection agency, like Frontline Collections,  could be very beneficial and helpful for your company or business. While someone else does the collection for you, you bring back your attention and concentration to running your business.

How is a professional debt collection agency beneficial to your business? Let’s have a look at some of the advantages:

Legal Protection

At present, there are numerous laws that regulate and govern the industry of debt collection, and customers or clients who know their rights can sue if they believe it were violated. Experienced debt collection agencies are aware of this that is why they are well-informed of these laws and regulations. When you hire a professional collection agency to retrieve debts that are unpaid, you eliminate the possibilities of legal risks that are involved when trying to collect these debts.

Comprehensive Documentation

Debt collection agencies make a comprehensive record of the process when they communicate with customers or clients with unpaid debts. If in the future you decide to take legal action against a debtor, the agency you hired will have a detailed record of all the times they have attempted to communicate with the debtor. These records will be used in court to show the extensive efforts of the collector to retrieve the debt. Furthermore, if the debt was claimed in the form of tax deduction, this documentation is needed for tax files. If the IRS does an audit, you will have a detailed documentation to show.

Successful Debt Retrieval Rate

Experienced debt collection agencies who have a very satisfactory debt retrieval rate can increase your chances of being able to collect unpaid debts. Your principal focus is to effectively run your business, a debt collection agency’s is to successfully collect delinquent debts. With a very satisfactory debt recovery rate, you can be certain that these agencies have the best practices and techniques to effectively and legally carry out the job.

Car Crash Injury Claims in France : How French Magistrates Decide on Lawsuits

Posted on by Jacki Gwenevere

In France, claiming compensation to recover medical expenses and costs of damages as a result of a car collision is largely based on the theory of negligence. However, since French laws require all motor vehicles to have at least third party liability insurance coverage, the insurance provider assumes responsibility in the payment of such claims.

That is why in France, any dispute over claims for personal injury cost-recovery involves the car insurance provider as the party responsible for all personal injury claims.

When the amount of damages being recovered by the aggrieved party becomes an issue, the matter may be brought to the local Tribunal d’Instance. If an appeal is made, further legal actions are filed with the regional Tribunal de Grande Instance (TGI). These judicial courts handle the civil lawsuits filed by private individuals in relation to assertion of civil rights.

However, the French judicial system works differently in hearing civil litigation over personal injury claims. No oral testimonies are required in determining the negligence on the part of the driver, as police investigations have already established the party at fault in a car collision. In personal injury lawsuits, only the amount of compensation is resolved in court. If a car crash resulted in death, litigation of the driver at fault will take place in another judicial branch in charge of handling criminal cases.

How French Magistrates Decide on Personal Injury Lawsuits

In settling the settlement dispute, the Magistrate assigns a medical expert who is neutral to both parties, to evaluate the nature of the bodily injuries suffered by the plaintiff from the car crash. On claims of compensation to recover cost of damages, other experts are designated to assess the economic issues related to the damaged property.

The court-appointed experts will then submit reports to the Magistrate, while both parties may also submit their comments and observations to point out possible discrepancies. Based on the Magistrate’s own assessment of the expert-reports and of the observations of both parties, awarding the amount being claimed by the plaintiff will be decided. Not unless the Magistrate finds it necessary to assign another set of neutral experts before making a decision.

Generally, insurance companies negotiate for a settlement before the case is actually brought to court as a way to avoid hefty litigation costs. Yet some insurance companies may regard threats of litigation as mere intimidation that will not follow through, especially if the claimant does not have the economic means to do so.

Still, in such cases, a personal injury claimant can obtain financial support from any of the best companies for lawsuit funding doing business in France. After all, lawsuit loans do not require putting up a collateral or require payment of front-end fees. No monthly amortizations are collected either.

Full settlement of the loan plus interests will be taken from the proceeds of the settlement once the Magistrate awards the amount. If by some stroke of misfortune the Magistrate decides otherwise, the lawsuit lending company will not collect payment from the plaintiff.

Today’s Consumers Consider Fintech Apps as Trustworthy

Posted on by Jacki Gwenevere

The pandemic and the need to stay quarantined prompted many people to search for mobile banking applications to use in the first 4 months of the year 2020, As the COVID-19 worsened, the demand for smooth and easy-to-use digital applications intensified; while the number of people using fintech apps have increased worldwide by more than a hundred percent.

Today, it has become apparent that consumers are becoming more trusting of fintech companies. Mainly because their apps are more focused on the delivery of satisfactory digital experience when providing the needs of mobile app users. The successful fintech companies nowadays, are in fact more keen on investing on innovations to improve their products and in instituting transparency in their services.

That being the case, these companies are well-prepared in satisfying the needs and expectations of their customers. Financial experts consider it noteworthy that decision-makers in the traditional financial industry are now embracing the use of disruptive technologies introduced by fintech companies.

Two Examples of Successful Fintech Apps that Focus on User Convenience

Below are two key players in the fintech industry who have achieved great results in their approach of focusing on user convenience and experience:

Grupo Financiero Actinver – Dinn App

While Grupo Financiero Actinver is already an established traditional bank in Mexico, the company still looked for ways to attract the new generation of customers who haven’t tried their hand at investing. The company’s marketing team recommended that the best way to achieve such a goal is to create an app that would give the smooth experience tech-savvy consumers look for in mobile banking apps.

In 2018, the company created a financial services app called Dinn, which targeted the younger generation of investors who have yet to learn how to effectively invest whatever little money they can spare. Using Google’s acquisition tools, Actinver was able to cost effectively build a financial services app designed to help the new breed of young Mexican investors.

The bank’s investing services required lower funnel actions as they reduce the number of options for their first-time investors, in terms of bonds, stocks, and mutual funds. Since Dinn is a digitally native financial brand, it is well positioned to meet the expectations of Mexico’s new breed of customers.

In the U.S., the most successful developer of this disruptive type of financial application is the Robinhood Markets fintech.

Greenlight

Greenlight is the consumer application focused on enhancing digital experience for children, by educating them early on about managing personal finances. The Greenlight app allows parents to monitor their children’s allowances and on how much they have learned from knowing the essentials of properly handling personal finances.

The company made sure that the app is greatly focused in providing user analytics, decision-making tools, and data infrastructure by harnessing Google Analytics. Moreover, observance of privacy regulations is assured as the Greenlight app was developed using Google’s comprehensive app development platform Firebase.

As a note, early success denotes that by word-of-mouth endorsements and exposure to the public, fintech apps are regarded as trustworthy. Nowadays fintech apps recommended by family members or relatives are regarded as 1.6x more reliable that those received as financial advice from other consumers,

POGOs Also Experiencing Financial Difficulties Due to Global Economic Crisis

Posted on by Jacki Gwenevere

Several Southeast Asian countries that invested in land based casinos to boost their tourism industry suffered from fallouts caused by the COVID-19 pandemic Yet one Southeast Asian country that benefited from the turn of events is the Philippines. Mainly because several years prior to the pandemic, the country had established itself as a regulatory haven for Asia-facing online gambling operators, officially known as POGOs (Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators).

Through its economic zones and gambling regulator, the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR), the Philippine government allowed numerous existing providers like Playtech and Realtime Gaming to establish their base of operations on Philippine soil so they can better serve their Asian customers. The move also encouraged numerous Asian entrepreneurs to invest in online gambling products, services and technologies.

Playtech and Real Time Gaming, by the way, provide the online casino games offered by a popular Asian online casino which mainly operates by way of downloadable mobile phone applications

At the height of the global pandemic lockdowns, several POGOs were able to obtain PAGCOR’s approval in allowing them to operate and keep their online casino sites running. PAGCOR’s grant of approval however, depended on a POGO’s compliance with the health and safety measures and more importantly, on up-to-date payment of regulatory fees and tax obligations. After all, the ensuing lockdown measure imposed globally was an opportunity that POGOs could not let pass, as Asian gamblers were showing increased interests in online gambling entertainment.

Success of PAGCOR POGOs Spurred Calls for Increased Taxation Among Philippine Lawmakers

In 2019, the Philippines had established itself as a world leader in regulated online gambling, for being able to collect as much Php 8 billion (USD 164.3 million) in revenues from POGOs. In seeing the profitability of the POGO industry, several Philippine lawmakers called for proposals to increase the tax rates imposed on offshore online gambling operators.

However, the move elicited warning from PAGCOR President and Chief Operating Office, Alfredo C Lim, for the government to refrain from overtaxing POGOs as doing so would drive away offshore gambling operators. Mr. Lim asserted that in addition to taxes on offshore gaming revenues, the Philippines is also benefiting from rentals of high-end commercial space and availability of local employment opportunities.

PAGCOR and Its POGOs are Currently Dealing with Declining Revenues

True enough since the economies of neighboring Asian countries have been hurt by the pandemic, even POGOs are experiencing decline in revenues. PAGCOR’s latest report stated that POGO revenues had plummeted by as much as 80%. That is why only 111 of the 218 accredited POGO firms operating in the country were able to secure clearance from the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR).

A BIR clearance denotes that all fees and taxes due, including the monthly regulatory fees collected by PAGCOR, have been settled. PAGCOR continued to require it as a condition before they can resume operations, after the government eased down on lockdown orders for nonessential businesses

Moreover, Jose Tria, PAGCOR’s AVP for Offshore Gaming Licensing, reported that as many as 42 online gambling service providers have withdrawn their PAGCOR accreditation, another five (5) POGO licenses were canceled, while five (5) other licenses are currently suspended.

As a result, the monthly regulatory fees collected from POGOs that usually amounted to Php 600 million (US$12.4 million) is now down to nearly half, or Php 300 million (US$6.2 million). As several POGO offices are now closing down, even the related income from real estate leases and other businesses that benefited from POGO foreign workers, are reporting declines in revenue.

Understanding the sectors of economy

Posted on by Grady Karly

In the economy, industry and commerce are divided into different areas, called sectors. This term can be derived from the Latin word “sector” and literally means “something that cuts”. A sector is therefore a section, you can also say an area.

Different sectors in the economy

The primary sector

It comprises the original production, also called primary production. This means that in this area, the raw materials are extracted and delivered for further processing. So this is about the procurement of unprocessed goods directly from nature. The first sector includes agriculture, fishing, forestry, hunting, and the extraction of natural resources such as coal. The primary sector is therefore associated with a lot of physical work. It is also said that the sector is “labor-intensive”.

The secondary sector

This is also called the industrial sector. As the name suggests, the focus is on the industry. This is where the raw materials from the first sector are processed. In addition to industry, this area also includes craft, energy and water supply, and the construction industry. The secondary sector, therefore, needs a lot of machines and the raw materials for further use. Because the raw materials and the machines for processing must be purchased, a lot of capital, i.e. money, has to be raised. Forex brokers here can give an aid.

The tertiary sector

This is also called the service sector. In the third area, the goods are distributed and consumed. All professions that cannot be assigned to the first two sectors fall under this area. Banks, trade, administration, doctors, journalists, lawyers, hospitality, insurance, cultural workers, and many others make up the service sector. This means that this sector is, above all, very labor-intensive, so you need a lot of workers.

The Quaternary sector or also known as the information sector

However, the use of the term in economy is not uniform. According to one definition, this includes activities from the tertiary sector that require a lot of responsibility or require high intellectual abilities – such as consulting activities such as lawyers, business consultants, medical and educational professions or professions in information and cutting-edge technology such as computer or biotechnology.

Affordable Marketing Approaches without Breaking Your Budget

Posted on by Nathaniel Sammy

Almost always, starting your business from scratch is the most difficult and challenging part. While it is definitely an achievement to be celebrated, a true business owner knows that this is just the beginning of everything. If you wish to see long-term success, then you need to keep on growing your business and increase sales just as what DominoQQ is doing with theirs. Majority of the businesses do fail just because they lack of funds.

Obviously, it is easy to say to increase sales but during these times of pandemic, we know how hard it can be. As a matter of fact, 38 percent of the small businesses operating in the US say that they are not entirely confident with their financial state because of Covid19. There are a lot of businesses that are struggling to hire a marketing team even in their peak performance. But you need to know that not all marketing and advertising campaigns should be costly.

It doesn’t have to be Expensive

There are creative and at the same time, low-cost approaches that will generate customers.

Number 1. Encourage Customer Reviews

Getting customer reviews in your store is vital in helping you gain a better understanding of your clients and on how to reach them. Also, they can provide credibility to your business. Of course, the more the positive reviews you get, the more customers you can attract and transact with you. Connecting your business listing with free Google My Business profile is one way of getting reviews.

This makes it a lot easier for customers to drop Google reviews and build rapport by simply responding to it. Besides, your profile will increase its visibility on Google Maps and Search, which is perfect for local search and foot traffic.

Number 2. Customer Loyalty

Your business has no better resources than existing customers. And mind you, it is easier to keep them than attracting new ones. There are numerous ways that you can promote customer loyalty and among the most effective is by providing outstanding customer service. Even if other businesses beat you in terms of pricing, providing a better and personalized service can go a long way in attracting and retaining customers.

Number 3. Content Marketing

An awesome way of promoting your business is via content marketing. Basically, this is any fresh and informative content created that is focused on showcasing your services, products or expertise. In this modern era, online content can be anything from article submissions, video posts or making blogs.

Fintech Lenders : When the Need for Extra Funds is Immediate

Posted on by Jacki Gwenevere

It is now apparent that the stimulus loans offered by the government are not as readily available and/or workable, as funding options for needy entrepreneurs.

While the Payroll Protection Program (PPP) of the CARES Act immediately grants $10,000 to successful applicants, many encountered difficulties in preparing and obtaining documents required for speedy and successful processing of their stimulus loan application.

When it became apparent that as the 2020 health crisis will drag on, it became clear for many entrepreneurs that the fastest way they can secure a loan is through fintech lenders. Small businesses have come to realize that in order to survive, they need to immediately bring their business online, incorporate e-commerce technologies as well as launch promotional and marketing campaigns.

However, they need to have additional personal financial resources, if they need to spend extra on restarting their business online.

The PPP charges only 1% of the unforgiven loan balance in case business owners do not meet the requirements to qualify for the forgiveness of loan balance. Yet for entrepreneurs whose need for funding is immediate, competing with the multitude seeking to obtain a PPP loan can be a long and arduous task. That is why many turned to fintech lenders instead.

Who are the Fintech Lenders?

Fintech lenders are companies that utilize Artificial Intelligence, big data, the power of the Internet and partnerships with traditional financial institutions in offering personal or even mortgage loans. Through innovative technologies, fintech lenders have eliminated the need to process loan applications using outdated and complicated methods.

Some examples of today’s leading fintech lenders include:

TALA – Santa Monica, California

Through a consumer-lending app, TALA underwrites loans based on data provided by app-users’ smartphones or smart devices. Examples of data used in determining a Tala loan-applicant’s credit-worthiness include bill payments, social media connections and activities. So far, TALA reports that the company has assisted more than 3 billion new users in obtaining personal loans that will help them build their credit. .

AVANT – Chicago, Illinois

Using its fintech technologies, AVANT offers consumers the Avantcard that enables customers to obtain credit for small shopping purchases or larger loans for emergency needs, home repair or a vacation trip.

BRAVIANT HOLDINGS – Chicago, Illinois

Like TALA and AVANT, Braviant Holdings uses technology and big data analytics in verifying and processing applications that allow the company to make quick decisions. Unlike other fintechs, Braviant Holdings cater mostly to under-banked people, providing them with credit cards to use like Balance Credit and Chorus.

What Factors Affect Changes In Exchange Rates?

Posted on by Regan Andre

The forex is particularly determined by supply and demand. The exchange rate largely depends on them. This is particularly dramatic when, for example, fund companies, banks or entire countries carry out large enough trades in one go. Then the price can suddenly rise suddenly or drop just as suddenly.

Foreign exchange rates are of great importance for all traders in the forex market. So it is important to know the factors that make an impact on the exchange rate.

What influences Foreign Exchange Rate?

The developments in the market. This can be read on a so-called chart. It shows the price trends graphically in a line chart. Brokers like Pepperstone (read Pepperstone broker review) need such charts for their work. You can use them to read the exchange rates and use them as the basis for your future forecast. The finance experts try to read trends in the chart analysis.

Political decisions or elections. The influence of elections can currently be seen very well in the US dollar. Since Donald Trump’s election in November, the dollar has lost value steadily against the euro. In addition, since Trump’s election as president, Mexico has had to throw hundreds of millions of dollars in the market to counter the fall in the price of the peso, fueled by protectionist tones. Fortunately, from Mexico’s perspective, this was possible thanks to large currency reserves.

International crises. In contrast, the consequences of the nuclear dispute with North Korea remained unexpected. While foreign trade and foreign investment declined sharply, the South Korean Wong was relatively unimpressed.

Events in the economy. If, for example, a change occurs at the top of large automobile manufacturers, technology or energy groups, this can also affect the exchange rate if the company is large enough. But the publication of annual figures for important companies can also have a major impact. The change in price can first be seen in the leading indices of the shares.

Natural disasters. Natural disasters and environmental events can also have a significant impact on the currency market. When hurricane Irma headed for Florida, the dollar reacted immediately. Investors feared high losses from the storm, with insurers currently facing $ 40 billion in costs. But when the storm lost strength, the dollar regained strength.
Consumer climate and trade index. Both economic indicators make it possible to forecast the near future economic future of a country. This in turn is decisive for the strength of its currency.

Commodity / oil prices. Commodity prices in general and in particular the prices of crude oil and natural gas also play an outstanding role for the foreign exchange market.

Capital movements. In the case of capital flows, the proportion of underlying real economic transactions has fallen to up to 10%. The lion’s share is speculation. As a result, the stock exchanges are also price drivers. Here, however, it is true that a weak stock market leads to rising prices because investors are fleeing into fixed-income alternatives. It is therefore worth taking a look at the most important stock markets with regard to forex trading.

Monetary policy. The currency policies of individual countries can also lead to price movements that are difficult to predict. In addition to Mexico, Russia and China have recently had to throw large amounts of US securities on the market to strengthen their currencies. While it may be predictable that these steps would be necessary, the exact timing is difficult to estimate.

Conclusion

The list could go on and on. The slightest tremor can upset the markets and start huge flows of capital. Sometimes you expect them and then they stay away. The forex market is very complex and certainly not for beginners. On the one hand there are quick and high winnings, on the other hand the tide can turn quickly and everything is lost. It is therefore advisable to deal with the matter in detail beforehand before engaging in forex trading on the forex market .

Basics of Improving Your Odds of Getting Low Auto Loan

Posted on by Nathaniel Sammy

One of the biggest expenses that someone would ever make in their life is buying a car. This is why many are trying to look for lån uten kredittsjekk og sikkerhet and buy car at the lowest interest with easiest payment terms. Let us face it, there are few lucky individuals who are well-off and can buy a car with any problem at all.

But most people on the other hand are depending on car loans to buy cars, which become more of a necessity than a “want”. Car loans are just like any other loans. It comes for a price and it must be your best interest to keep it low cost. This is why finding low car loans are vital. It will be ideal if you would find an online loan calculator to figure out the best combination of interest rate, loan period and also, amount of loan.

What Affects the Rates of Your Auto Loan?

You can achieve low car loans assuming that the lender personally lowered the rates for auto loan, which is practically, the interest rate they charge. Majority of the car loans are unsecured and because of that, the lender is assessing the borrower’s creditworthiness by checking and reviewing their credit before granting the loan.

Now let us say that the credit score is good and acceptable, the lender will have confidence that there’s little risk to approve the loan and that their money would be safe. With this in mind, the lender will be pleased to lower the loan interest to the applicant. Otherwise, then the lender will be covering the risk of granting the loan and may not be so lenient in offering low interests.

Therefore, it is vital to have good credit score to be able to acquire low car loans. With this in mind, it is going to be helpful if you would fix your credit score and maintain a good one as well before you pass an application for auto loan. If for example that you have poor credit history, you can try fixing it by doing timely payments and get any mistakes you made in the past rectified.

Debt to Income Ratio

This is another aspect that can impact your loan rates. To improve this, you have to ensure that your credit limits are lower than what is approved for your max amount. Additionally, you must keep all previously paid off accounts open and never close them because zero balance open accounts are quite helpful in trying to maintain healthy debt to income ratio.

Fintechs Provide Tools to Help SMEs, Gig Workers

Posted on by Jacki Gwenevere

While financial technology companies are themselve getting hit by the ongoing COVID-19 crisis, yet several UK fintech innovators are helping small businesses stay afloat.

In recent years and all across the globe, fintech companies have been developing new applications or financial resources to help consumers and small entrepreneurs organise and improve finances. They have managed to ruffle the feathers of traditional banks and other lending institutions, by providing consumers and business startups with agile technologies and solutions for obtaining funds.

Although financial technology companies are not immune to the disruptions caused by the current coronavirus health crisis, some have shown concern on the impact of the current crisis on small businesses in the UK. Many fintechs are currently focused on providing quick solutions that can help small players obtain the government funding relief they need in the fastest and surest ways possible.

Solution Provided by Fintechs to Gig Workers and Independent Solo Entrepreneurs

UK fintechs, many of them volunteers, have been developing new tools aligned with economic relief programs that the UK government launched in helping consumers, gig workers and solo-proprietors of small businesses. Below are some examples:

Starling Bank

Starling Bank, a UK licensed and regulated bank that operates digitally and only by way of mobile devices, recently rolled out the “Connected Card.” It works as an emergency debit card that enables a Starling Account Holders restricted by orders for self-isolation, to extend the use of his or her account, not just to family members but even to carers and friends, so they can purchase essential items on the account holder’s behalf.

The Starling account holder is protected by limiting the Connected Card balance to £200; whist allowing him or her to track and manage use of the extended card, by way of a related mobile app.

“Covid Credit”

Several dozens of UK fintechs came forward to render volunteer work in helping build an application that enabled gig workers, freelancers and self-employed individuals to self-certify their lost income. The certification, being a document required by the UK government in processing applications for economic relief.

“Coronavirus Calculator”

Developers at Countingup, touted as the leading provider of agile solutions for banking and accounting needs of small business in the UK, came out with Countingup. This app enables self-employed individuals to immediately determine how much financial relief they could obtain from the UK government’s coronavirus funding program for small businesses ran by solo proprietors.

“Coronavirus Furlough HMRC Claim Calculator”

Pento, creator of automated payroll tools specifically for use of startup small businesses, created the “Coronavirus Furlough HMRC Claim Calculator.” This tool helps startup entrepreneurs determine how much they can claim as financial relief from the UK government under the “Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme.” The government program intends to help employers of small businesses keep workers employed instead of making them take a leave of absence.

Financial Assistance For Small To Medium Businesses Affected By Covid-19

Posted on by Regan Andre

Small businesses are among the industries that are most affected by the COVID-19 epidemic. To address this, the U.S. Small and Medium Business Administration provides economic relief loans. While these financial aid loans can be an important step for businesses looking to survive their business, the Small Business Administration says it is essentially looking at more plans to assist small businesses throughout the country by enlisting an authorized lender to provide additional loans.

Trump: We’ll Be ‘Making Lots Of Small Business Loans’ Amid Coronavirus Spread | NBC News NOW

The U.S. Small and Medium Business Administration defines small businesses as those with 500 employees or less. The only businesses to be excluded are lenders, gambling agencies or any type of speculative industry.

Businesses may apply for loans of up to $ 2 million at a rate of 3.75% for up to 30 years, but the SBA explained this is not the only plan under consideration to support the current economic climate.

“They are yet talking about this. There are numerous matters, and I can not guess what it’s going to be but I’m sure these negotiations are going on,” said department manager Steve Bugler. “The president, lawmakers, and the SBA are working together on this. “

Since no one knows how long this outbreak flu will last, the overall economic effect of the virus is unknown. Visit the SBA website for more information. Or you may call their direct number also found on their website.

Additional Financial Assistance From The SBA

There will be more financial assistance in the future through SBA loans given to SMEs. The White House declared that the SBA would give lower interest lending options to SMEs impacted by the Coronavirus, and on March 11 asked Congress to raise its $ 50 billion budget.

It is unclear which companies are eligible for financing or which loan programs are available. Contact your SBA regional office for the most recent info.

During the outbreak of the corona pandemic, are financial institutions ready to give assistance?

If you currently have a business loan and run a business within an affected region, you don’t have to stress about repayments being missed. Loan providers including Bank of America and Wells Fargo have issued statements that indicate they are ready to work with borrowers. Deferment or possible reduction of amount due may be an option as a result of the coronavirus incident. Check with the lender for available options.

Grants offered to businesses impacted by the coronavirus

Some local governing bodies like New York and firms like Amazon have begun providing cash aid to businesses impacted by the Coronavirus. These subsidies are smaller than standard loans and are restricted to businesses in a few areas. Grants offered by Amazon are available only to businesses in Seattle.

You can check with your local business unit to find out which big companies are providing grants in your area of business. The basic concept of some personal subsidies is to offset the income losses that some businesses may face after the company has a mandatory homework policy.

The Impact Of Corona Virus On Economies Throughout The World

Posted on by Regan Andre

The corona epidemic reveals how susceptible the network of economies is throughout the world. The main challenge started in China, however, it has spread and made a huge impact on American, European, and German companies. Technically throughout the global market.

Europe is feeling the effect of the Corona spread. Italy shows what could also come up in Germany. The virus, Corona is less fatal than any other previous epidemics. On the other hand, the virus is beginning to bring economic operations to a halt.

Coronavirus Affecting Economies and Businesses Around the World

Investors Are Alarmed

The financial market has been alarmed by the pandemic resulting in a market panic. Many investors including those who were eyeing on Canadian stocks to buy came to a standstill.

In China, besides the insufficiency of factory workers, there is also an issue on travel where truck drivers are not allowed to work and possibly fear to work. There had been traffic on the transportation of goods in significant regions of the country. For many weeks, operations have stopped, containers weren’t moved from the ports and therefore there was no movement from the factories to the shops.

The government in China is currently hoping to get people to return to work. This makes it possible for production to start in considerably less infected districts, even though the full potential could hardly be reached. This approach is supposed to stop the country’s overall economy from falling apart entirely and therefore placing the strength of the Communist Party in danger. Even so, it is utterly uncertain if the crisis in the nation is coming in order. Through these measures, however, there is a great danger that the virus will spread again.

The scenario in China and, recently, in Europe, investors in the financial markets became worried about the possible losses due to the pandemic compared to the 2008 financial crisis. The turmoil is not yet similar to the pressure of the tragedy at that time, however, the corona epidemic contains the possibility for a downturn that has not taken place since the monetary crisis. It is similar that a financial shock brought on by the virus could impact the world as a whole as it did.

A Total Unfavorable Scenario

Following the bankruptcy of Lehman Brothers in 2008, it has become clear how highly networked and connected the financial world was as it is still at this time. Today in the midst of the Corona turmoil we observe the tight connection of global industries in terms of production, logistics, as well as services.

The world hopes that the virus will come to a halt before it infects the entire world. Even with a low fatality rate, the number can increase into thousands. In addition, an outbreak could place the global economy in an exceedingly critical turmoil, considering a range of bankruptcies and people losing their jobs. Likely countermeasures are being outlined and solutions should be in place before everything goes out of hand.

What are Fintechs? Why are They Creating a Buzz in the Financing Industry?

Posted on by Jacki Gwenevere

Fintech is short for financial technology now used in referring to companies that harness advancements in financial technologies, in providing financial services that were traditionally provided only by banking institutions.

Actually, fintechs are now at the stage where they are competing with banks in delivering fast and easy to avail financial services, which ordinary consumers can access by way of smartphones and mobile banking systems.

Many startup fintech companies made waves in 2005, 2006 and 2011 when they ventured into offering student loans. Those were the periods when the general public started to lose trust in banks.

To date, several fintech companies like Lending Club, Prosper and SoFi have expanded, furnishing not only student loans. Currently, they are also offering personal loans, home mortgages, equity loans, as well as offer savings,retirement and trading accounts and investment options.

Already servicing several millions of customers between them, these fintech companies can fund as much as $3 billion to $11 billion worth of loans to the general public on a yearly basis.

Yet that would make you pause and ask, “If they are technology companies, are they licensed to offer loans in accordance with government banking regulations?”

“Are their savings and investment offers backed by insurance agreements like those under the traditional Federal Deposit Insurance Coverage (FDIC)?”

Moreover, “Who provide the funding that fintechs loan out?” After all, fintech companies do not have the same business models as banks, in which the latter lends funds as a way of investing deposits placed by customers.

Forbes Conducts Its Own Investigations on How Fintechs Work

Last December 31, 2019, Forbes Magazine published an article that explains how fintechs operate and who provides the funding. The investigation zeroed in on an FDIC-insured and licensed charter bank called Cross River.

Apparently, Cross River also started out as a traditional bank, which financial technology company called Greensky resuscitated when the bank started failing as aftermath of the 2008 financial crisis.

At that time, Greensky, while still a financial technology development company, was already offering no-interest loans. Greensky offered those loans to property owners who wanted to add home improvements to make heir property highly vendable in the real estate market.

Greensky owner David Zalik later approached Gilles Gade, a French immigrant who until now serves as the CEO of Cross River Bank. Through the charter bank, Gade provided funds for loans originated by GreenSky. At that time, the general public had lost trust on bank-funded loans, while financial technology companies like Greensky offered alternatives.

Sure enough, Cross River became one of several charter banks that grew, by funding loans underwritten for fintech companies. After all, financial technologies now include artificial intelligence (AI) in determining, assessing and managing the risks involved in loan operations.

Many call the funding provided by licensed charter banks as peer-to-peer funding. However, Andrew Marquardt of Middlemarch Partners and former New York Fed told Forbes that investors look at fintech companies as banks. Marquardt corrected this view by saying

”They are just tech companies that leverage technology in furthering an old-school bank solution known as business or consumer lending

Understanding FOREX before Starting with a Trade

Posted on by Nathaniel Sammy

Everyone would almost agree that FOREX is a global marketplace. Sellers and buyers are converging from all parts of the world and taking part in trades amounting to trillions of dollars a DAY! Given that FOREX trading becomes globalized activity and almost everyone is into it, it shows that macroeconomics event now has an even bigger role in foreign exchange than before.

As we push through on this article, we will be talking about few of the economic trends as well as events that’ll benefit those who’re new in the market. If you are serious to give this a shot, then see to it that you’ve given the time to understand the movement in this market.

Macroeconomics and FOREX

The market is mainly driven by the overarching factors of macroeconomics. These said factors are influencing the decision of a trader and ultimately, it determines the overall value of a given currency at any given period in time. A country’s economic health is a critical aspect in its currency value. The overall economic health however is then shaped by various events and information that might change on day to day basis, which later contributes to round the clock nature of international FOREX market.

How is FOREX Impacted by Capital Markets?

Perhaps, global capital markets are the most obvious FOREX indicators used in economy’s health. Meanwhile, bond and stock markets are more noticeable in the world. It’s quite hard to miss the release of public info in capital markets given that there’s constant media coverage and information on dealings of institutions, government entities as well as corporations.

Bond markets are critical too. It has a say as well on what’s happening in FOREX market for both currencies and fixed-income securities heavily rely on interest rates. Fluctuations of treasury price are factored in to the movements of currencies.

In other words, if there’s a change in yields, then it will affect the currency values directly. With this in mind, it is vital to have better understanding on how bonds, most especially governments are valued to be able to excel and succeed as a trader in foreign exchange.

FOREX and International Trade

The balance of trends and trade levels between nations are also a key aspect to be taken into account. Trade levels between nations do serve as proxy for relative demand of goods from nations. Nations with services or goods that command high demand in the international market are likely to have appreciation of currency.

Freeing Yourself from Scams Surrounding Cryptocurrency Market

Posted on by Nathaniel Sammy

It doesn’t matter if you do believe in cryptocurrency bubble or not, but one thing that most people would agree is that, investment frenzy are attracting untrustworthy people searching for their next trader greed. In this article, we will try to identify some scams while laying out steps that traders can take in order to be on the safe side whenever they’re trading cryptocurrency.

Scams in the Market

It is fairly easy to think that everyone becomes rich after investing in crypto such as Bitcoin. This is a poor mindset and many people have fallen into this misconception. As a result, there are tons of scammers that are taking advantage to lure traders with unscrupulous services and products which include the following:

Number 1. ICOs

This is known as Initial Coin Offering and is actually fundraising mechanisms that are often coupled to newly introduced cryptocurrencies. ICO investors receive tokens for their new venture. Believe it or not, investors have put ridiculous amount of money to over 1000 ICOs for the past several years.

While most ICOs are legitimate, many of it actually has no real technology to back them up or plans.

Number 2. Exchanges and Brokers are Unregulated

There are literally hundreds of brokerage firms and online exchanges that are unregulated and yet, they are offering cryptocurrency trading products and cryptocurrencies. Most of which are teaching to know the use of the best crypto bots for trading. For any suspecting investors, you should take a step back especially for promotions that seem too good to be true.

As soon as you have made a deposit, most of these firms are going to charge you with unbelievable commissions or perhaps, make it hard to withdraw your funds. In fact, worst offenders are just stealing your money.

Number 3. Bitcoin Trading Systems

Bitcoin’s volatility is such an extreme. It has even spawned wide industry of automated trading system. Promoters of the products are making claims that they have a way of beating the market by means of arbitraging prices between exchanges. As a smart trader, do not believe the HYPE!

Exchanges in Bitcoins oftentimes have expensive withdrawal procedures and high fees for trading it with fiat currencies like Euro or Dollar. Furthermore, the settlement trades may take hours. And all of these factors are going to eliminate profits from the Bitcoin arbitrage and could even result to your lost.

Safe Practices for Trading Coins

We’ve known that trading these coins come with a risk but there is a way to be the next victim for these scams. When trading cryptocurrencies, see to it that you invest money in what you could afford to lose, do thorough research before investing and the likes.

What To Do When Banks Turn You Down

Posted on by Regan Andre

When the banks turn you down for a loan, it’s not the end of the world. Here’s what you should do.

When you are in a tight situation facing legal and money issues. You may have applied for a loan to make ends meet but got denied. While the sum of money from your settlement takes too long to be approved pending legal cases, you can always consider pre-settlement loans like car accident cash advance in cases of auto accidents.

Review Your Circumstance

Find out why the loan application was denied. Lenders usually need to explain and request specific information, so there is no reason not to know.

General reasons why banks deny you a loan

Banks would like to look at good credit history, specifically good payer standing. On the other hand, if you have defaulted on a loan in the past, they will look at the circumstances that have caused these defaults. You can view your credit reports so that you have a guide on your credit history and explain the situation if you have faced such defaults. The good thing is that one you could improve your credit despite past defaults that reflect on your report.

In cases of home loans, loan providers are mandated by law to determine your capacity to pay. Many loan providers make use of a debt to income percentage to verify if you possibly could deal with the repayments after approval of the loan. They will evaluate your earnings, your expenses, and your repayments each month assuming the lowest payments possible. If banks think that you cannot afford another loan, then your application will be rejected. But if you are able to provide collateral as security, there is a high chance of approval.

Prior to resubmitting the loan application

A good tip to keep in mind when reapplying for a loan application, it is best to assess yourself the way lenders do. Look at your income if you have enough to make repayments and check any red flags showing in your credit. Ask your lender if there are any issues that may affect your second application.

First Steps

Do not assume any responsibility for computer errors or mistakes from other person’s actions. You have got the right to delete the error. The lender will see how much you have to pay back the debt each month, so lowering your monthly expense can make you look more like good a borrower.

Additionally, there are approaches you may use that come with an instant impact on your credit rating or can result in being qualified for the loan

Pledge a valuable asset to help you lay hold of the loan. Take challenges that are sensible. It isn’t worth making use of a home equity loan to cover a holiday or possibly an extravagant car.

With home and car loans, particularly, it is better to put these loan applications to a short-term window, 30 – 45 days at the lengthiest to reduce harm to your credit coming from way too many hard queries in rapid sequence.

Longer-Term Approaches To Improve Credit

This means that you will have to get a loan and making sure that you pay on time. By doing so, your credit will slowly but surely improve. As your credit improves, you will receive better rates of interest and lesser rebuffs in the years ahead. This does not automatically imply repaying 100 % of your debts, though that could be the ideal solution. Be sure to contact your lenders to see a repayment schedule, and get a printed agreement to take out unfavorable details out of your credit files.

Settling old debt increases your regular monthly cash flow that is readily available for new loans.

Financing Your Affiliate Marketing Business on a Digital Economy

Posted on by Grady Karly

Due to modernization and technological innovation, online business is really a predominant factor within the industry today. It just take a desktop, laptop or smart device and an internet connection to make this online business possible in the digital economy. A step-by-step learning process that can equip you with the appropriate knowledge and abilities is what you need to start the creation of your business journey. You drive for the development of your online business without the urgency to make your own product.

Affiliate marketing business

To be able to have an affiliate marketing business, you need to associate the following aspects:

  • Know the way of generating traffic
  • Create lists of high profile targeted subscribers
  • Interact with potential clients
  • Make websites
  • Advertise numbers of products with high-quality

Luckily, there are available affiliate programs that cater training and give emphasis on the development of those aspects mentioned above. There are even reviews of those affiliate programs that may help you on your business. One example is the reviews for Affiliate Institute and among the best reviews is the one from Deadline News.

Thus, all those can provide all the needed components to be a successful entrepreneur of the digital economy. Making use of the digital business offers an updated marketing education, first-rate product listing, most advanced level tools, great support system, and an avenue to helpful assistant to keep you closely monitor your business.

An excellent segment of the affiliate marketing business is that the companies or products that you can promote is limitless.

Being in this kind of business can allow you to meet marketing experts and professional business system professionals that can give helpful advise about running your affiliate marketing business. And this may be a part of your training as an affiliate marketer. In each training part, the tools will be provided in order to enhance your point of view and level up your business.

Engaging in different affiliate marketing programs is really advantageous. Meanwhile, below are the benefits that novice affiliate marketers can get from excellent affiliate programs:

1. Continuous Training

Affiliate marketing programs can give you comprehensive pile of video trainings, educational demos, and downloadable programs dedicated on online marketing and creation of online businesses.

2. Exclusive Business Mentor

In order to create your own online business successfully or level up your existing business without any hassle, an expert digital entrepreneur will be provided to guide you in every step of your online business creation. This is one of the important roles of a business consultant.

3. On-hand Digital Platform

A platform will be provided to serve as a tool and service provider. The services included contain but not limited to the following: website creation, web hosting, graphics production, report maker, tracking app, and landing page.

Brazil’s Congress Set to Undertake Deep Probe of the Country’s Cryptocurrency Market

Posted on by Jacki Gwenevere

Cryptocurrency news website Cointelegraph, reported that Brazililian lawmakers have overwhelmingly voted to approve a resolution to launch an investigation into the country’s cryptocurrency market.

Congressman Aureo Ribeiro, instigated the request to formally task the Parliamentary Inquiry Commission (PCI) to conduct the probe. The request came as a result of the widespread proliferation of cryptocurrency related fraud transpiring in Brazil. Congressional support for Ribeiro’s resolution is overwhelming, as the document was signed by 234 Congressmen, which exceeded the required minimum of 63 votes.

According to Cointelegraph, the approved resolution specifically named cryptocurrency operators Atlas Quantum and its CEO Rodrigo Marques, Trader Group and Zero 10 among many others, as needing thorough investigation.

The growing number of complaints put forward by people coming from all over Brazil, indicated that the proliferation of cryptocurrency-related fraud throughout the country, has reached epidemic proportions.

Congressman Ribeiro, who also authored a bill proposing for the regulation of Brazil’s cryptocurrency operations, wrote in the resolution that

”The lack of regulation and vigilance over the crypto market in Brazil presents potential risks to investors and users, as its operations combined with high levels of anonymity, abstraction, cross-border transactions and other peculiarities inherent to the cryptocurrency technology.”

The Brazilian congressman also explained in the resolution, why Atlas Quantum, once purported as the biggest cryptocurrency company in Brazil, calls for a deep probe.

The Main Problem with Atlas Quantum

Homegrown Brazilian cryptocurrency company Atlas Quantum, is currently facing financial problems and legal issues.

Last September 18, 2019, Atlas Quantum released a video to present itself as a robust company with more than $54 million in bitcoins to its name. However, Atlas made further claims that the exchange company HitBTC has frozen 1,862 BTC ($15.3 million) and over $5.4 million in stablecoin Tether (USDT) that Atlas allegedly maintains in three crypto accounts.

On October 05, 2019, HitBTC denied Atlas Quantum’s claim by informing investors that the said crypto-investment company does not have any value stuck in the HitBTC platform. HitBTC further stated that the video released by the alleged Atlas Quantum team is fake, as exchange company noted the non-standard placement of amounts to show the purported balances of Atlas Quantum’s account.

Moreover, HitBTC asserts that it has not received any request for assistance in connection with the supposed frozen accounts. .

The video came at a time when numerous investors expressed fears that the crypto-investment company will not be able to fulfill its obligations to meet all requests for withdrawals. The case attracted wide media coverage, to which Atlas Quantum responded by presenting an audit report allegedly attesting to the veracity of the amount of Bitcoins and other altcoins held by the beleaguered company.

The audited statement though is regarded as contentious, as many of Atlas’ investors doubt if Atlas Quantum has sufficient cryptocurrency resources to honor its commitments.

Equity Release : A Financial Scheme that Can Help Seniors Cope with the Loss of a Spouse

Posted on by Jacki Gwenevere

Home equity release is fast becoming a financial solution taken by UK’s population of senior adults. During the second quarter of this year alone, the Equity Release Council had established that as much as £971 million in equity release loans were availed by Britons aged 55 and older.

Many do so in order to cope with the loss of their spouse, when preferring to live independently in the home where they raised their brood. After all, maintaining a house requires extra funds that a state pension cannot provide.

Moreover, the Centre for Ageing and Demography of the UK National Statistics Office released a report in August 2019 that describes the dramatic change in the structure of the UK population. According to the report, there are more older people making up the UK population, since previous generations had produced fewer children. The only factor driving a rise in the number of people residing in the UK are the migrants. .

The report also said that Britons today tend to have a longer life span. Generally, most British men are said to live up to 79.2 years old, while British women often survive the death of their husband up to age 82 and beyond. Yet senior citizens who have to survive after the death of their spouse, face financial and health issues while living alone.

Seniors Address Extraordinary Financial Needs by Way of Equity Release Mortgage

In seeking professional advice from financial experts, many older adults in the UK learned that there is a financial facility offered exclusively to senior homeowners. Availed by way of an equity release arrangement, a lot of older Britons were able to borrow a percentage of their property’s value, without having to face the burden of making monthly payments.

The amount borrowed plus the total interest compounded on the outstanding balance will be settled through the sale of the property; but only when the senior borrower dies, or when he or she needs to enter a nursing home for long term. The scheme works on the principle that a real property appreciates in value and therefore can be sold in the future at a higher valuation.

It is possible that the proceeds from the sale of the property could exceed the total amount due on the loan. The borrower’s heirs would still stand to receive the residual value, once all payments due on the mortgage have been applied.

On the other hand, to avoid burdening heirs with unpaid obligations arising from an equity release mortgage, the UK Equity Release Council, requires the incorporation of a “No-Negative Equity Guarantee” to the mortgage contract. It is a clause that constrains the lender to consider the mortgage paid through the sale of the property. That is regardless of any resulting deficiency, in case the proceeds of the sale is less than the total amount due. .

Using an equity release calculator uk lenders carefully evaluate the value of a property. That way, they can ascertain that the amount loaned out as equity release plus compounded interest, can be adequately covered by the future value of the mortgaged property.

Cryptocurrencies – Does It Have An Effect On The Global Market

Posted on by Paden Krystelle

Binance withdraw is an option to take as it is one solution for global crypto exchange providing a platform for trading and exchanging over a hundred cryptocurrencies. Since 2018, Binance is regarded as one of the largest crypto exchange in the globe with regards to the volume of trading.

Platforms like this have been created as cryptocurrencies have become tremendously popular because of the potential gains it offers, however the volatility of cryptos includes the risk of losses as well. For instance, Bitcoin increased from around $1,000 to over $19,000 in 2017 prior to dipping to over $3,000 in the onset of 2019. In 2017, ICO or Initial coin offerings raised over $3.7 billion with a succession of new digital currencies entering the cryptocurrency market.

The Responses

The response to digital currencies has been unenthusiastic among financial institutions as well as central banks. Although there are several bodies that have supported cryptocurrencies, numerous central banks continue to be careful taking into consideration the tremendous volatility of the market. Moreover, concerns with capital control as well as tax evasion have directed to several widespread issues.

  • United States Federal Reserve

Jerome Powell, chairman of the U.S. Federal Reserve, deems that technical concerns persist as well as governance and risk management are crucial prior to digital currencies becoming mainstream.

  • European Central Bank

Vitor Constancio, former VP of the European Central Bank, described Bitcoin a “tulip” pertaining to the bubble in the Netherlands in the 17th century. Additionally, a lot of other governors have voiced out comparable skepticism.

  • Bank of England

Mark Carney, Governor of the Bank of England, described cryptocurrencies as part of a finance “revolution” wherein it made the central bank one of the technology’s governmental proponents.

  • Bank of Japan

The Bank of Japan does not envisage a cryptocurrency market.

  • People’s Bank of China

The People’s Bank of China supposes that situations are “ripe” to accept and welcome cryptocurrencies, however the central bank would want complete control. Moreover, authorities are tightening up on the nation’s cryptocurrency ecosystem.

Bearing of Crypto on Global Investments

In terms of transactions that are frictionless and controlling of inflation, cryptocurrencies have numerous benefits, however a lot of investors are including these digital currencies as assets to their expanded and wide-ranging portfolios. To be specific, the market which is non-correlated in nature makes digital currencies a probable border against risk, akin to valuable metals such as gold. Numerous products that are exchange-traded via cryptocurrency have surfaced for this reason.

Conversely, several experts are concerned and fearful that a collapse in the cryptocurrency can have an undesirable bearing on the wider market, like how securities that are backed by mortgage set off a worldwide financial crisis. However, it’s good to note that the entire capitalization in the market of every digital currencies is beneath that of numerous public corporations. This means that it might not have a significant impact or bearing on the global markets.

Do The Early Work of Investing For Your Future

Posted on by Regan Andre

As someone who just graduated from college, it can be a lot to deal with the real phase of adulthood, and the financial aspect that greatly comes with it. Working to earn not just for your wants but most especially your needs can be a lot to handle especially that living more independently is not as easy as it sounds. Paying rent, bills, and other miscellaneous that is vital to everyday living is a lot to handle now that you are working for your future and a possibility of your own family someday.

The Fundamentals of Saving

To make this phase a bit easier and organized, the first thing to really accomplish is to learn the dynamics of priority. This is where the art of learning your wants and needs come in, and how to equalize both. It is saying no to things that can be delayed and is not that needed, and saying yes to things that can benefit you and your lifestyle for the longest run. Learning the terms equity and equality comes handy as well since equality is giving your wants and needs the equal priority and allotment they need and equity is actually giving more to what needs it, and making sure that everything comes off as balanced.

The next thing to do might be the hardest, and that is to actually be consistent in saving up. You might reason out that it is far too early to be very intense in saving but that is really the opposite. Saving up is best dine in your early years so that pursuing what you really want for a future career will not be compromised. Having that start-up budget will look good on you on your 20s and can do you some good, in investing early in things that will matter a lot in the near future.

The third thing is actually quite relevant to the second one and can be seen more on https://www.forafinancial.com/blog/working-capital/get-business-loan-bad-credit/. It is actually making sure that each buys you do from now in is to be treated as one of your investments, in this way you may learn more on choosing to buy things that actually matter and spending your money on things that can be present for a long time. Mindset is important in this aspect, and not everyone can be successful in doing so. Knowing that this point of yourself should dwell more in understanding things that will cater to a more stable future, and that smart moves from this point on will result in more fun and laidback days.

What Drives The Economy Of A Country?

Posted on by Paden Krystelle

When individuals find themselves in a financially tight situation, they constantly fall back on financial institutions, like banks, as well as lending companies, such as American Pride who offer settlement loans for vehicular accidents, to aid them in this time of financial need. Truth is, millions of individuals across the globe get loans only to be capable of paying basic household expenditures such as utilities and other bills.

The way of life of Americans is established on debt. These credits which amount to billions of US dollars have given a lot of Americans the opportunity to own and be blessed with vehicles, appliances, furniture, stylish apparels, healthcare, vacations, as well as other small procurement.

Consumer Spending Drives the Economy’s GDP

The growth and progress of the economy is driven by consumer spending which is a major factor as it frequently contributes to over half of the GDP of the nation. It’s imperative for businesses and companies, whether small or big scale, to be capable of generating new employments and flourish. If this happen, more people will be able to spend for services and goods, therefore more money will circulate.

Taking out a loan is an individual’s own personal approach to help the economy as well as the overall system. Money will be generated and will be returned back to the nation by means of consumer spending, such as purchases of goods and services as well as other expenses. Hence, a market of consumer finance that is stable and appropriately-regulated has macroeconomic as potentials that would greatly be beneficial to the general economy of the nation. Furthermore, it likewise brings microeconomic advantages by making accessible to individuals reliable as well as inexpensive loans, especially for those with poor or no credit history.

Why Some are Fearful of Taking Out Loans

However, there is a minor stigma that frames the concept of loans. Individuals are fearful of the idea of borrowing money, with ostensibly heavy rates of interest as well as underhanded lenders. But, the truth is, people only tend to mistrust or have doubts about things that they don’t own, and getting a loan isn’t any different. Nonetheless, by merely repaying the loan promptly, you’ll get out of exorbitant interest costs as well as cyclical problems on debt. Loans depend on the reliability, integrity, and honesty of both the borrow and the lender.

Although taking out a loan could do the country good, there is a downside to it, particularly in terms of debt. Debt could be risky for the economy as well. For instance, if the economy goes through a crisis or collapse, a lot of people may find themselves jobless or unemployed which would therefore cause them to have defaults or the incapacity to settle debts.

Ponzi-Scheme and Other Investment Scams on the Rise in the Cryptocurrency Market

Posted on by Jacki Gwenevere

Many cryptocurrency owners are forgetting the primary advantages of using digital money for their transactions, which is that of circumventing the red tapes and charges imposed by traditional financial institutions.

Recently though, not a few have been lured into investing their virtual money into Ponzi-schemes and other similar investment scams using the blockchain technology.

Enticed by the prospect of amassing cryptocurrency without having to mine or earn them as profits in conventional trade transactions, victims easily forget that fraudulent investment schemes can easily circumvent an unregulated financial system.

Ponzi-schemes are the most viable because scammers need only to promise cryptocurrency owners profitable returns. Over time, millions of cryptocurrency owners were lured into becoming members by using the Plus Token app, which they were led to believe as legitimate e wallets.

Unknowingly, Plus Token was also transferring small amounts of digital money to e wallets created for purposes of laundering the money collected from members.

Although Plus Token members may have seen increases in their e-wallet balances, there was no guarantee that such increases were real or had been entered in the blockchain system.

In a real-money Ponzi scheme, profits given to subscribers do not come from real investments, but are only skimmed from contributions of new members. In the blockchain platform, this can be verified only by those who are savvy enough to decrypt the blockchain transactions entered by Plus Token.

How the Plus Token Ponzi Scheme was Unraveled

.Legitimate blockchain-based ewallet operators have actually given warnings about the incredulity of the idea of paying out profits just for using a blockchain-based ewallet.

 

Still, the number of Plus Token memberships reached 10 million in July 2019, which was the same time that Dovey Wan, founder of a legitimate cryptocurrency investment firm called Primitive Ventures, took notice that Plus Token was gradually but continuously selling off cryptocurrencies in small batches.

Ms. Wan immediately tweeted warnings about the Plus Token activities, whilst urging cryptocurrency exchange operators to blacklist the site. She also furnished them with ewallet addresses that appeared to have been beneficiaries of the cryptocurrency sell-offs.

After the alarms were raised and reached proper authorities, six Chinese nationals identified as members of the core team running the Plus Token Ponzi-scheme, were located in the island country of Vanuatu. The South Pacific island country later extradited the six to mainland China.

Token Analyst, a crypto-analytic firm located in London said Plus Token maintained e wallets that they used in laundering money once online mixing services have fused the Plus Token-held cryptocurrencies with other e wallets. That way, details of where the virtual money originated will become obscure.

Online mixing services are actually offering this type of work, which in an unregulated system of financial operation, can do so freely without fear of sanctions.

Other Methods Used by Scammers in Luring Investors to Ponzi Schemes

A promise of profit and fast-talking swindlers are not as effective in order to entice millions of cryptocurrency owners in a short span of time. Other methods are in use in order to make the Ponzi-scheme look truly legitimate;

Use of forum influencers, who take part in the website’s forum to attest to how their digital money has grown since becoming a member.

 

 

Paying recruiters, who also influence potential investors by showing off their newfound wealth at social media sites; when actually, the money they earned were commissions earned for every new member they recruited.

In today’s high tech advancements, there are now sophisticated software that can interact with Telegram, an Internet-based messaging system popular among cryptocurrency users. Tech savvy scammers find legitimate methods of responding to inquiries about ewallet account balances. That way, the lured investor will read what he or she is hoping for: the money promised already appears in one’s account.

Terrorism Caused A Surge In Travel Insurance Demands

Posted on by Regan Andre

Terrorist attacks make a huge impact on the economy and the travel industry as a whole. Nonetheless, this also resulted in a surge of travel insurance attention in the past years.

Terrorism Coverage – Travel Insurance Benefit

Several insurance firms observed increasing attention in travel insurance following a cord of terrorist attacks in France. A policy provider said that from the time Paris had been attacked, travel insurance agencies had been getting a spike of phone calls from vacationers wanting to protect their travels using travel insurance.

The State Division of the United States recently released an international travel advisory regarding the issue of terrorist attacks and the requirement for travel safety precautions. The memo prompted a lot of travelers to buy travel insurance for security.

It was noted that one of the most comprehensive and cheapest travel insurance in Singapore allows customers terminate or disturb their travel plans in case of a terrorist-related incident happens from a particular distance from the destination or when it happens in the destination itself. The trip could be canceled or delayed for some time before arrival.

Various policies evidently sport various meaning of terrorism. A number of providers may not keep to the globally accepted meaning of terrorism released by the U.S. government, instead, they make their own definition. Most of these travel insurance agencies combine these into their particular travel insurance guidelines.

The United States Terrorism Definition

The U.S. government’s meaning of terrorism differs from those generally set in policies because it particularly differentiates terrorism from a civil disorder or simple riot. Possibly since they have to stick to the trend or merely cautious to supply more reliable reasons for protection. A few travel insurance guidelines do not let their clientele cancellation because of terrorism. Numerous providers dissuade canceling especially if an insurance policy is bought after any release of travel alert.

Make certain that your plan has coverage for “Cancel for Any Reason”. This can serve your very best interest. Even though it is just an elective benefit, you will be provided the chance to terminate approximately two days prior to your planned departure for almost any explanation – possibly even explanations not established in or included in the travel insurance coverage. You may also be reimbursed as much as 75 % of non-refundable travel costs.

One more thing you need to note. Trip termination or interruption only addresses non-refundable travel expenses. You are not covered for costs that could be refunded. For example, if the air travel company gives a coupon for a trip terminated because of terrorism or weather conditions, you may no more claim any kind of benefit coming from your provider aside from other expenses you suffered.

Consumer Spending Sustains The Economy

Posted on by Paden Krystelle

The economy greatly depends on the spending of consumers, wherein it frequently entails individuals to borrow or take out a loan and get into debt. Check out https://www.xn--forbruksln-95a.com/. That structure can’t put up with itself if borrowers continue to grow poorer because of credit card debt. Conscientious credit card debt is beneficial for the economy since this implies that healthy spending is taking place. However, the economy suffers when the gages lean toward the non-use of credit, or where too many individuals are in debt and can’t repay them.

Impact of No Credit or Debt to the Economy

It’s not easy to envision the economy of the United States functioning with not a single person with a credit card debt. This is just however a setting considered by John W. Schoen. Schoen is a financial writer and MSNBC senior producer. For most Americans, being as well as remaining free from debt is not likely to transpire anytime soon. If it does, it would be interesting to take note of the effects that may come about. Two-thirds of the economy of the United States is supported by consumer spending. If individuals bring spending to an end, it will result in an extreme drop in the gross domestic product (DGP), wherein it is usually utilized as a marker of the health of the economy as well as the living standard.

The economy of the nation is greatly dependent on consumer spending, wherein it every so often have a need for individuals to borrow money and be in debt. Credit card debt that is responsibly paid off does the economy well since healthy spending is present. On the other hand, if individuals don’t make use of credit or if there is a great number of individuals who aren’t responsible or capable of paying off their debt, the economy will surely feel the impact and suffer.  

Increase in Unemployment

Credit cards allows individuals to spend or splurge. In the event that individuals halted from spending, there will be an increase in unemployment. Thousands to millions of work will be deemed pointless and unnecessary if individuals don’t spend or become “consumers.”  For instance, individuals who are involved directly in manufacturing as well as those selling goods and providing services would suffer, likewise to individuals who make boxes to pack products would likely lose their jobs. This is similar to individuals who deliver parcels, or goods. If Americans come to be free of debt, numerous lenders will close their business. Moreover, according to Schoen, without lenders that are reliable the economy “wouldn’t get very far.”

Growth of the Economy Stops

Debt could sustain and support an economy, however this growth will ultimately cease when households or individuals are operating at a loss. In the event that individuals or households can’t meet the expense of repaying or settling their credit card debts, they will have to cut back on their living standards. This is not good for the nation’s economy and could cause episodes of recession, which upsets and impairs the economy. For instance, as the government collect less funds from levied taxes due to high unemployment rate, they would then have to expend more on benefits for unemployment.

 

Government’s Duty in Encouraging People to Start a Small Business

Posted on by Nathaniel Sammy

Providing financial assistance for launching small businesses and stay afloat is puts a government in an advantageous position. Local businesses are helping to support tax base via business taxes and also, through wages that are provided by employees. The probability of workforce expansion as well as economic growth has prompt federal government, states, counties and municipalities in offering different types of assistance. These include but not limited to the following:

  • Research Opportunities
  • Worker Training Programs
  • Beneficial Legislation and;
  • Grants

In order to figure out the services available near you, better get in touch either with your local and state economic development offices. After doing so, inquire about the business incentives that are available in your area.

Loans that are Prioritized

There are many benefits that small businesses can provide to the economy as a whole.

For one, there are government programs that are helping businesses to properly run their operations, grow and to relocate to other areas. In some methods, county, state and local governments are competing with one another for jobs. They are doing this by means of offering a start-up incentive and by taking steps in creating business-friendly environment.

These steps consist of:

  • Worker Training
  • Tax Credits
  • Free Land
  • Zoning changes
  • Infrastructure Improvements
  • Loans w/ Low Interests and;
  • Assistance with fast tracking licensing

Loan Guarantee Programs

Believe it or not, government agencies similar to US Small Business Administration is providing loan guarantees to SME and encouraging local banks and private lenders like Zebra loans to approve loans of those who are applying for a business loan.

In this regard, if you are applying for such a loan, it will be wise to contact your banker or a financial institution and inquire about federal or state loan programs that are offering low interests rates.

If you’re a minority or operating a business in selected industries, then additional loan options might apply.

The only way that you can learn about this is by contacting the economic development office of your state.

R&D

Federal Government is providing grants to the academic institutions that are working on the development and invention of new technologies. This is true especially on those that would benefit the industry. In some cases, the government is providing grants among private companies to create new service or product that’ll further improve vital aspects of the economy similar to agriculture, energy, communications or transportations.

The Importance of Maintaining a Good Credit Score

Posted on by Nathaniel Sammy

You may or may have not heard of what a credit score. However, it has to be in your best interests to truly understand how it works and the way it affects your financial state. The credit score is the same with the school’s grading system. Thing is, rather than denoting how bad or good you are with academics, it is using banks as well as other lending institutions in determining how worthy you are for a credit.

Your Credit Score is Your Report Card

Aside from that, the credit score or history can be used by various insurance companies, landlords as well as employers. The acceptable scores for your credit are ranging from 300 to 850. Anything lower than 300, and you are considered high risk when applying for a loan.

Here’s something that you have to know about having low credit score. It can effortlessly complicate your life and make it expensive. Since you’re considered to be a high-risk entity by banks, they will be stringent with the approval.

The restrictions that will apply would come in form of tighter, higher interests and anyway the bank deem necessary.

Besides, your odds of being rejected from the application are higher compared to those with higher credit scores.

What’s it Like to Apply for a Loan Today?

These days, the acceptable credit score should be at least 740 or higher. Having a score like this, it is going to be easier to get competitive rates as well as financial products. For this reason, make it a point that you are doing the best you can to improve or maintain a good credit score. There are many ways that you can do this actually like for instance, buy tradelines wholesale at this site, pay loans on or before the due date and such.

Banks will be checking for these criteria and if they found out that you are a good payer and with untarnished credit history, they may even be the one to offer you other deals you may not know.

A Shortcut or a Quick Fix?

There are credit bureaus as well that you can get in touch with wherein you will be paying a small amount for their service and you’ll get high credit score. This is regardless of your actual credit score. To acquire free credit, you will have to sign-up for their free trial subscription service. Though, you can cancel your subscription prior the expiration of the trial.