Are you getting the best rate of return on investment? Kiplinger's Personal Finance Magazine annually discusses ways to boost your investment yield in their latest issue. I have to say that I am always pretty disappointed in their recommendations. I love the magazine, but I didn't really care for a list of mutual funds and Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs). But, I wanted concrete ideas on how to earn a 10% annual rate of return on my investments. US Treasuries are earning less than 1% and money market funds are not fairing much … [Read more...] about Ten Ways To Earn A 10% Rate Of Return On Your Investments
Ask Trim Review – Save Money with Trim Automated Finance Personal Assistant
If you find yourself struggling to save money or find other areas of your budget to cut back on, then you’re not alone. Millions of Americans want to save more money, but it’s easier said than done in many cases. After all, it doesn’t just come down to an individual’s financial discipline. For instance, consumer cable bills have risen 40% between 2012 and 2018, which isn’t something you can easily control for, thanks to the relative monopoly status that cable companies have in their markets. Fortunately, free personal finance apps like Trim … [Read more...] about Ask Trim Review – Save Money with Trim Automated Finance Personal Assistant
How To Find The Perfect Work Life Balance At Your Job
Achieving a work life balance is often discussed, but infrequently agreed-upon by workers and their employers alike. While some people argue that it’s up to companies and managers to allow their employees greater flexibility in their careers to balance out their familial obligations and personal enrichment activities, others such as TED Talk speaker Nigel Marsh argue that it’s up to individuals to balance out their day jobs and personal lives on their own terms. According to the American Psychological Association’s annual “Stress in America” … [Read more...] about
Mint Mobile Review – Cheap Mobile Phone Plans Starting at $15 per Month
If you’re trying to cut back on your budget and save money on regular expenses, then your monthly cell phone bill is a good place to start trimming. After all, the average person spends hundreds of dollars per year on data, texting, calling and phone upgrades – but is this really necessary? Step aside, Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile; it’s all about saving money with Mint Mobile now. This up-and-coming cell service provider offers incredible 4G LTE coverage and low, transparent prices on their phone plans compared to other major service … [Read more...] about Mint Mobile Review – Cheap Mobile Phone Plans Starting at $15 per Month
How to Ask for a Pay Raise Without Getting Fired
Yesterday, I wrote about what you should do with a pay raise. But, what if you are not one of the lucky Americans who will enjoy the average 2% pay raise this year? How do you ask for a pay raise? There are a couple of techniques that you can use to learn how to ask for a pay raise. Although unemployment rates are currently at their lowest levels since before 9/11, a major problem for many people in the workforce is stagnant wage growth. Some local and state governments have increased their minimum wages in an attempt to keep up with the … [Read more...] about
Top 3 Reasons You Should Not Invest in Cryptocurrencies
Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies are booming right now. Maybe they don’t always offer the best return on your investment on some days, but there’s enough media hype surrounding this new type of currency that it’s almost impossible to not hear about it. Cryptocurrencies are not for everyone. Should you invest in cryptocurrencies? Here are three reasons why you might want to sit this craze out. There's Bitcoin, which is typically worth anywhere between $12,000 and $20,000 per unit in current markets. And others, including Litecoin, … [Read more...] about
M1 Finance Review – The Newest Robo Advisor for Sophisticated Investors
When it comes to investing with robo-advisors, there are plenty of low-cost, automated trading platforms available today. While there are unique advantages (and disadvantages) to each one, newest robo-advisor on the market called M1 Finance gives the more established, sophisticated investors great investing options. Developed by a 25 year-old Stanford graduate, M1 Finance simplifies the investment process for beginning and experienced investors alike. Unlike other robo-advisors, M1 Finance does not charge a fee, and it gives you the option … [Read more...] about
5 Ways to Save Money on Your Mortgage
If you’re like most people, your mortgage is the costliest payment you make each month. Making your mortgage payments can be a struggle, whether you’re buying your first house or twenty years down the road in a house you’ve made your home. While you might feel stuck in the monotony of your mortgage payments, there’s hope. Read on for 5 ways you can save money on your mortgage today. #1 Improve your credit score One of the biggest factors lenders look at when deciding on APR is your credit score. FICO credit scores are the standard … [Read more...] about 5 Ways to Save Money on Your Mortgage
Top 9 Crucial Considerations to Make Before Choosing a Bank
Are you tired of your bank taking advantage of you? Do you know how to choose a bank you can actually be proud of for a change? You should use a bank that treats you like a valued customer. Here's what you need to know to find a bank worthy of your business. Are you falling out of love with your current bank, or were you never particularly fond of your current bank in the first place? Whether you’re sick of hidden fees, bad customer service, or you simply think there are better opportunities elsewhere, there’s nothing wrong with wanting to … [Read more...] about
USAA ETF Review – USAA Launches Its First Electronic Traded Funds (ETFs)
When you’re trying to diversify your investment portfolio, it’s important to go beyond the usual options of stocks or bonds and consider new investment opportunities. There are many advantages to diversifying your portfolio. You'll have lower risk thresholds, greater returns on investments, and potentially lower fees. What you invest in is just as important as who you invest with. A fund manager or investment platform with a poor history of returns could spell disaster for your portfolio. On the other hand, a successful company, platform, or … [Read more...] about USAA ETF Review – USAA Launches Its First Electronic Traded Funds (ETFs)
5 Home Renovation Projects that Have the Worst Return on Investment
Not all home improvement projects come with a high return on your investments. In fact, some home renovations can be downright disastrous for your budget and home value if you don’t do some careful research in advance to avoid throwing your money down the drain. It’s all about home-buying trends and preferences of potential buyers in your area. While “smart” appliances and home security upgrades are currently popular, you might be surprised to learn that luxurious additions to your home or backyard might actually hurt your home’s resale … [Read more...] about 5 Home Renovation Projects that Have the Worst Return on Investment