In todays rough economic environment, nothing is more important than getting paid for the services you provide. The same applies for cash intensive companies like trucking and freight businesses. In these lines of businesses, it can often take nearly two months before the company sees any payment for the services that have already been provided. In that time, bills must be paid with money you have not received. Drivers must be compensated and the...more
Since the credit crisis hit global financial markets, many companies have seen their lending sources dry up, causing major strain on them to complete everyday tasks. The troubling news is, despite government effort, a new report suggests things arent improving. According to a Wall Street Journal analysis of Treasury Department data, banks receiving the largest amount of TARP or Trouble Asset Relief Program funds refinanced 23% less in new loans...more
So, you are about to embark upon the fun task of switching banks, opening an account for the first time or perhaps just looking around to see what is out there. Think about what you need and then look into your choices. Consider how fast you can get results. Does the bank or credit union utilize automated decisioning so that you can get results in an instant? Automated decisioning is a way that financial institutions can get you answers regarding loans, credit card approvals and line of credit increases right away. Are you thinking about starting a business? Consider small business lending program. Look to see if you would qualify for the loan and perhaps all the hoops through which you will need to jump. A simple thing to ask yourself is how convenient is the institutions location. Maybe you dont drive so youll want to make sure they are on your bus route or within walking distance of your home. If not, maybe there is a satellite location close to you or an ATM where you can do your deposits. Ask yourself how much you will need to visit the bank so you can choose one that is convenient. Next, think about the difference between banks and credit unions. There are several key...more
Index Trading is simple, the term 'Index Trade' refers to a trade that can be placed whether a particular Stock Market Index moves up or down over any specified (short-term) time period. You never actually own the instrument you are investing in, you are simply taking a 'position' on a particular Index to move in one specified direction, either 'UP...more
The business of doing forex mainly relies on foreign currency exchange rates. These are the dollars, yen, euros and other such currencies which are being used to facilitate an exchange between various forex businesses. If you are new in the forex business it would be a good idea to focus on a few major currencies first before you move on to dealing...more
As the major economies start to stabilise and the risk of a depression thankfully recedes, many people are reflecting on a few important issues. Firstly, how did it happen? Secondly, how can you better protect yourself in the future?Few would argue against the importance of fiscal planning and research. Opportunities in fluctuating markets, tax efficiency and planning investments for the future are all motivating forces.It looks like many people are turning away from pure funds and pensions and considering newer forms of trading that provide new opportunities.One style of trading, spread betting, is gaining popularity. When you look at the speed at which you can trade, the number of trading opportunities and take into account the easy access to global markets then, it is worth exploring further.Of course, as with all investments such as trading shares, funds, pensions, housing etc, you can lose money. With spread betting you can lose more than your initial investment.But why trade if there is a risk? Spread betting offers a solution that covers tax free* trading and quick access to global markets. There are many advantages. With spread betting you do not actually buy or sell any...more
As the world slowly recovers from the credit crunch and we look back at what went right and what went wrong, people are increasingly looking to take control of their finances.Many of us are looking to be more tax efficient with our investments. We...more
With the world in recovery mode, many people are still questioning how the financial markets got so out of control. They are also questioning something a little closer to home; how to better look after their own money and finances.If we are being...more
Getting back to even!! Boy...that has a nice ring to it! After suffering through the market’s near collapse in 2000, I thought I’d seen the worst of it. I’ll never forget...My broker at the time (long since fired) worked...more
So it looks like we have avoided a 1930s style depression however the current forecasts still suggest slow growth and a difficult time ahead. So what should you do in a difficult environment with your own finances?If we were to be honest with...more
In the aftermath of the credit crunch, investors are learning from past mistakes and deciding to take greater control of their finances.Opportunities in fluctuating markets, tax efficiency and planning investments for the future are all motivating...more
So it looks like we managed to avoid a 1930s style depression. However, the current forecasts still suggest slow growth and a difficult time ahead. So what should you do in a difficult environment with your own finances?Diversification of assets, tax...more