Paper notes have risen and fallen over centuries, but the value of gold has always been preserved. Although cultures traditionally revered gold for its elegance, investors are now buying gold to expand their assets, inflation hedges, and to guard against the devaluation of the currency. Gold is a worthy investment, but little is understood on how gold prices are calculated and what determines the gold price per ounce. [Read more…]
Why You Don’t Have to Choose Between Investing or Paying Off Debt
A lot of people in the debt-free community (especially if they are Dave Ramsey followers) believe you have to choose between investing or paying off debt. This black-and-white thinking could potentially be holding you back from larger financial goals though. You don’t have to choose. You can do both. Here’s how.
Choosing Between Investing or Paying Off Debt
Any time you come into some “extra” money it is difficult to decide where it should be allocated. When your finances are the main focus in your life, like it is for many of us, it is hard to decide whether you should be investing in your future or focused on paying off debt.
The answer to this question will vary from person-to-person and family-to-family. After all, personal finance is personal, right? If you still hold a lot of debt, no you shouldn’t be thinking about making any investments right now. Focus on getting your high-interest debts paid off and then shift your gaze to making investments for the future.
For us, our main focus has been paying off debt. I’ve had people ask, “Why aren’t you investing yet?” I always thought to myself, “Well, because I still hold a lot of debt.” That does not necessarily mean you can’t invest though. In fact, in some cases, your return on your investment may benefit you more than paying off your debts. That is a rather unpopular opinion in debt-free circles online though.
Now, that isn’t to say that you should drop down to minimum payments on all of your debts and throw the extra cash into an investment portfolio. You have to go about it the right way.
How to Invest While Paying Off Debt
So, how do you invest while simultaneously paying off debt?
Investing and paying off debt are both good uses of your money any way you look at it. However, you want to be sure you are making the most of every penny. At the end of the day, paying off your high-interest debts will provide a better return on your money than any investment you will make. Make a list of your debts from highest to lowest interest.
The key is to look at interest rates versus your potential return. If the return you’d be earning is higher than the interest you are paying on your debts, make the investment. For example, if you hold a mortgage loan that has 5% interest but your portfolio return is 10%, the investment may be the better decision for you. Unfortunately, for the most part, investments are not always that straightforward. Something that is performing well this year may not be next year.
Many people use investments this way to come up with the money they need to pay off their debt more quickly as well. If you think you can earn in the stock market in a way that will further your debt freedom goals, do it! But you really need to put thought into the numbers before making that move.
Read More
Navigate Home Financing: Discovering the Types of Mortgage Solutions Available Today
What Are The Different Types Of Mortgages?
Embarking on the journey of homeownership can be both thrilling and daunting. A crucial step in this process is understanding the different types of mortgages available. Mortgages are not one-size-fits-all; they come in various forms to suit different financial situations, preferences, and goals.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the diverse world of mortgages, helping you find the path that leads to your dream home.
1. Fixed-Rate Mortgages: Stability And Predictability
The bedrock of home financing, fixed-rate mortgages, offers a consistent interest rate and monthly payments over the life of the loan. This predictability makes budgeting easier and shields you from fluctuating interest rates. Typically available in 15, 20, or 30-year terms, these mortgages are a popular choice for many homeowners. Companies like 1st United Mortgage provide tailored solutions in this category, ensuring a stable and predictable financial plan for your home.
2. Adjustable-Rate Mortgages (ARMs): Flexibility With A Catch
Adjustable-rate mortgages start with a lower interest rate compared to fixed-rate mortgages, which adjust over time based on market conditions. This type can be attractive for short-term homeownership or if you anticipate a future increase in income. However, it’s important to understand the potential for rising payments and plan accordingly.
3. Government-Insured Mortgages: FHA, VA, And USDA Loans
These mortgages are backed by the government and offer unique benefits. FHA loans, great for first-time buyers, require a lower minimum down payment and credit score. VA loans, available to veterans and service members, often require no down payment. USDA loans cater to rural homebuyers and offer zero down payment options for eligible properties and borrowers.
4. Jumbo Mortgages: Financing For High-Value Homes
Jumbo mortgages are a specialized financing option for properties that exceed the conventional loan limits set by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. These loans are essential in high-cost areas where property values surpass the typical borrowing cap. Unlike standard mortgages, jumbo loans require higher credit scores, typically above 700, and larger down payments, often 20% or more, reflecting the increased risk to lenders.
The interest rates on jumbo mortgages can be competitive with conventional loans, but this varies depending on market conditions and the lender’s risk assessment. Borrowers seeking these loans must demonstrate strong financial health, including a low debt-to-income ratio and substantial cash reserves. This is to assure lenders that they can manage larger monthly payments and potential rate increases.
5. Interest-Only Mortgages: Lower Payments Now, Higher Later
With an interest-only mortgage, you pay only the interest for the first few years. This results in lower initial payments but higher costs in the long run, as the principal remains unchanged during the interest-only period. It’s a risky choice but can be beneficial for certain borrowers with specific financial strategies.
6. Balloon Mortgages: Short-Term Solution With A Large Final Payment
Balloon mortgages typically offer lower rates and payments for a short period, followed by a large lump-sum payment at the end of the term. This option might be suitable for those expecting a significant cash influx in the future but comes with a high level of risk.
7. Reverse Mortgages: For Seniors Seeking Income
Available to homeowners aged 62 and older, reverse mortgages allow you to borrow against the equity in your home, providing supplemental income. The loan is repaid when the homeowner sells the house, moves out, or passes away.
Conclusion
Choosing the right mortgage is as important as selecting the perfect home. Each type of mortgage caters to different financial situations and goals. Whether you prefer the stability of a fixed-rate mortgage, the initial savings of an ARM, or the unique benefits of government-backed loans, there’s an option that aligns with your homeownership dreams.
Remember to consult with financial experts and mortgage advisors to make an informed decision that paves the way to your new home.
Read More:
Cogni Mobile Banking Reviews. Is the Digital Banking App Worth Your Time?
Cogni Mobile Banking Review. Should You Give This Digital Banking App a Try?
The Rise of Personalized Financial Services
In today’s digital age, customers expect personalized experiences in every aspect of their lives, and banking is no exception. Traditional banking models often treat customers as mere account numbers, offering generic services that fail to meet individual needs. However, with the advent of advanced technologies like artificial intelligence and machine learning, banks now have the tools to deliver personalized financial services like never before.
What is Cogni Digital Banking?
Cogni.com is the digital gateway to a streamlined and modern banking experience. As a financial technology company, Cogni revolutionizes traditional banking norms, offering users a comprehensive suite of mobile banking services. From intuitive money management tools to seamless transaction capabilities, Cogni.com prioritizes user-friendly interfaces and cutting-edge technology.
Catering to the demands of the digital age, Cogni.com aims to simplify financial interactions, providing individuals with the tools to manage their money effortlessly. With an emphasis on accessibility and innovation, Cogni.com emerges as a dynamic platform, transforming the way users engage with their finances.
Cogni Banking is disrupting traditional banking processes by leveraging advanced technologies to offer a more streamlined and efficient banking experience. One area where it has made significant changes is in customer onboarding. Traditionally, opening a bank account involved lengthy paperwork and multiple visits to the bank. With Cogni Banking, customers can open an account seamlessly online in as little as three minutes, eliminating the need for physical paperwork and reducing the time and effort required to get started.
How to get Started With Cogni Digital Banking
In order to set up and Cogni banking account, you must provide the following information:
- Full legal name
- Email address
- Mobile phone number
- Home address
- Social Security number
- Date of birth
Cogni Visa Debit Cards
Through their partnership with Community Federal Savings Bank, Cogni provides three Visa debit cards that can be used anywhere Visa is accepted.
- Primary Card: This is your Cogni Visa debit card, issued as a physical plastic card mailed to your home address. This also has a digital representation in the app, and can be added to 3rd party digital wallets such as Apple Wallet, Paypal, and Venmo. This card must be activated before it can be used. This is the only card type supported for ATM usage.
- Digital Card: This is a virtual card that’s valid for a full year. This is an entirely separate card number from the Primary card, thus giving you flexibility where and how you use it. For example, you could choose to put this card on file for Amazon purchases while you choose to use your Primary card for physical in-store purchases. This also has a digital representation in the app, and can be added to 3rd party digital wallets such as Apple Wallet, Paypal, and Venmo. This card is automatically activated so it is ready for use as soon as you are approved!
- Single-Use Card: This is a virtual card that is valid for only a single purchase. They are automatically canceled after the first purchase. Each Single-Use card generated creates an entirely new card number. These provide the ultimate in worry-free shopping, for example on unfamiliar websites. They are also useful for trial subscriptions, since the subsequent subscription charges will be declined. This card is automatically activated each time it is generated! Note: Due to the single-use nature of the cards, they cannot be used in 3rd party digital wallets such as Apple Wallet, Paypal, and Venmo.
Why Choose Cogni Over the Competition?
✅ Free Visa Debit Card with no foreign transaction fees
✅ No credit check and no minimum balance
✅ Over 55,000 no-fee ATMs throughout the United States
✅ Deposit cash at over 60,000 locations to include Walmart, 7-11, Walgreens, Safeway, etc
✅ After your first 2 deposits of 300 or more, get paid 2 days early when you set up direct deposit
✅ Fast and securely send funds between Cogni members for free using the Cogni app
✅ Up to 20% off digital cards at over 1,500 brands like Uber, Airbnb, Adidas, H&M, ebay and more.
Your Cogni Banking Funds is FDIC Insured
FDIC insurance, or the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation insurance, is a government-backed program in the United States that protects depositors against the loss of their deposits if an insured bank or savings association fails. Funds deposited in a Cogni bank account is FDIC insured under Community Federal Savings Bank for up to $250,000 per account.
How to Deposit Cash using the Cogni App?
One cool benefit of Cogni is the ability to instantly deposit funds into your checking account without ever making a try to the bank, or needing to take photos of checks. You can deposit actual cash into your Cogni account using 4 easy steps:
- Navigate to the “Move Money” tab in the Cogni app
- Click on “Add Cash” and use the map to find an approved location near you
- When physically at the location, present your card and the amount you wish to deposit to cashier
- Once confirmed by the cashier, your funds will be available instantly
Easily Track Your Spending with the Cogni App
Cogni Banking goes beyond the traditional banking experience by offering real-time insights through categorized spending summaries from groceries, to transportation, and more. Instead of waiting for a scheduled meeting with a financial advisor, customers can access their spending trends whenever they need it. This level of convenience and accessibility empowering individuals to take control of their financial future.
Cogni App and Account Security
Cogni Banking offers enhanced security measures to protect customer data. With the growing threat of cybercrime, customers need reassurance that their financial information is safe. Cogni Banking employs advanced encryption and authentication technologies to ensure the highest level of security for its users. This peace of mind allows customers to confidently engage with the platform and take advantage of its personalized financial services. However, note that your information may be shared with other third party companies or organizations. You may contact Cogni or visit the privacy policy page for information on how your data will be used.
How Cogni Banking is Transforming Traditional Banking Processes
Cogni Banking is disrupting traditional banking processes by leveraging advanced technologies to offer a more streamlined and efficient banking experience. One area where it has made significant changes is in customer onboarding. Traditionally, opening a bank account involved lengthy paperwork and multiple visits to the bank. With Cogni Banking, customers can open an account seamlessly online in as little as three minutes, eliminating the need for physical paperwork and reducing the time and effort required to get started.
Is Cogni Legit? Here’s what the reviews are saying.
As of November 2023, Cogni has a 4.7/5 star rating from over a thousands reviews on the Apple App Store,. On the Google Play Store, the Cogni Banking app sits at 4.1/5 stars from over 80 reviews. Negative reviews tend to mostly gear toward technical issues and frustration navigating the app’s features. Recent reviews also pointed out room for improvement in the customer service department as some users reported little to no assistance addressing their concerns.
While Cogni does not have any recorded BBB complaints, the online banking service is unfortunately not accredited by the Better Business Bureau and has a 1/5 star rating from 3 reviews.
Conclusion
By leveraging advanced technologies Cogni Banking offers customers a highly tailored and intuitive banking experience. From personalized financial advice to real-time insights Cogni Banking empowers individuals to take control of their financial future. As this innovative approach to banking continues to evolve, we can expect even greater advancements in personalized financial services, revolutionizing the way we manage our money. While I would recommend giving Cogni a try, I would advice against using the service as your one-stop-shop for banking services.
READ MORE:
- Self Lender Reviews: Building Credit With a Loan from Self Inc
- Cash App Glitch 2023: Is the Free Money Glitch Real?
- Try This $10000 Biweekly 26 Week Money Challenge to Crush Your Debt
- Why You Need A Personal Mid-Year Budget Review and 5 Things to Do Now
- How Often Should You Review Your Budget?
ARK7 Real Estate Platform Review: Exploring the Pros and Cons
Unlocking the Hidden Potential of Your Investments: An In-Depth Ark7 Review
Meet ark7, an innovative platform that offers a unique way to invest in real estate. In this in-depth ark7 review, we’ll explore how this fintech company is revolutionizing the real estate industry and helping individuals grow their wealth.
With ark7.com, you can invest in professionally managed real estate portfolios for as little as $5. The platform leverages advanced technology and combines it with expert real estate knowledge to provide users with a seamless investment experience. Through fractional ownership, you can diversify your investment portfolio and gain access to a range of properties that were once only available to high-net-worth individuals.
But what sets ark7 apart from other real estate investment platforms? We’ll delve into its key features and benefits, such as transparent fees, active management, and a user-friendly interface that makes investing simple and accessible.
If you’re tired of traditional investment options and want to explore the potential of real estate, ark7 may be the solution you’ve been waiting for. Join us as we unlock the hidden potential of your investments through this comprehensive ark7 review.
How Does Ark7 Work?
Ark7 operates on the principle of fractional ownership, allowing investors to pool their money together to invest in professionally managed real estate portfolios. This means that you can own a fraction of a property alongside other investors, giving you access to a diverse range of properties that were once only available to high-net-worth individuals, not actual personal mortgage required.
The process is simple. First, you sign up for an account on the ark7 platform. Once you’ve completed the registration process, you can start exploring the available investment opportunities. The platform provides detailed information about each property, including its location, potential returns, and risk factors.
Once you’ve selected the properties you want to invest in, you can allocate your funds accordingly. The minimum investment amount is as low as $5, making it accessible to investors of all budgets. ark7 takes care of all the legal and administrative processes, including property acquisition, management, and tenant screening.
With ark7, you don’t have to worry about the day-to-day management of the properties. The platform’s team of experts takes care of everything, from property maintenance to tenant management. This allows you to enjoy the benefits of real estate investing without the hassle.
Benefits of Investing with Ark7
Investing with ark7 offers several benefits that set it apart from traditional investment options. One of the key advantages is the ability to diversify your investment portfolio. By investing in fractional ownership of multiple properties, you spread your risk and reduce the potential impact of any single property underperforming.
Additionally, ark7 provides access to properties in prime locations that would otherwise be out of reach for individual investors. This means that you can benefit from the potential appreciation of high-demand areas without having to invest a substantial amount of capital.
What are the Ark7 Fees?
Although the platform is free to use, Ark7 charges users a sourcing and also management fee.
Sourcing Fee: One-time, 3% of the Property Market Cap, charged by Ark7 for sourcing, acquiring the property, and listing it on the Ark7 platform to the general public in sellable shares.
Management Fee: Monthly, 8-15% of the Rental Income from the property, is paid to Ark7 as the Asset Manager for maintaining the property and managing tenants.
Ark7 vs. Traditional Investment Platforms
While traditional investment platforms offer a range of investment options, they often lack the specific focus on real estate that ark7 provides. Traditional platforms typically offer a mix of stocks, bonds, and mutual funds, which may not align with your investment goals.
One of the key advantages of ark7 is its focus on real estate. By specializing in this asset class, the platform can leverage its expertise and experience to identify high-quality investment opportunities. This targeted approach allows investors to benefit from the potential returns associated with real estate investments.
Another major difference is the accessibility of the investments. Traditional real estate investments often require a substantial amount of capital and come with high barriers to entry. On the other hand, ark7 allows you to invest in real estate with as little as $5. This low minimum investment amount makes it accessible to a wide range of investors, regardless of their financial status.
In terms of management, ark7 takes an active approach to ensure that your investments are performing optimally. The platform’s team of experts constantly monitors the properties and makes necessary adjustments to maximize returns. This proactive management sets ark7 apart from traditional investment platforms, where investors often have limited control over their investments.
Getting started with ark7
Getting started with ark7 is a straightforward process. First, you need to sign up for an account on the platform’s website. The registration process is simple and requires basic information such as your name, email address, and password.
Once your account is set up, you’ll need to complete the verification process. This involves providing some additional details, such as your identification documents, to comply with regulatory requirements.
After you’ve verified your account, you can start exploring the available investment opportunities on the platform. ark7 provides comprehensive information about each property, including its location, potential returns, and risk factors. This allows you to make informed investment decisions based on your risk tolerance and investment goals.
Once you’ve selected the properties you want to invest in, you can allocate your funds accordingly. The platform provides a simple and intuitive interface that allows you to manage your investments with ease. You can track the performance of your investments in real-time and make adjustments as needed.
Types of Investments Available on Ark7.com
ark7 offers a wide range of investment opportunities to suit different investor preferences. The platform focuses on residential real estate, including single-family homes, apartments, and townhouses. These properties are carefully selected based on their potential for long-term appreciation and rental income.
The platform also offers investment opportunities in commercial real estate, such as office buildings and retail spaces. These properties provide potential for higher returns but also come with additional risks. ark7’s team of experts carefully assesses each commercial property to ensure that it aligns with the platform’s investment criteria.
Additionally, ark7 offers investment opportunities in real estate development projects. These projects involve the construction or renovation of properties with the aim of selling or renting them out for a profit. Investing in development projects can provide higher returns but also comes with higher risks.
By offering a diverse range of investment options, ark7 allows investors to build a well-rounded real estate portfolio that suits their individual preferences and risk tolerance.
Ark7’s Risk Management Strategies
Real estate investments, like any other investment, come with inherent risks. However, ark7 takes a proactive approach to risk management to minimize potential losses and protect investors’ capital.
One of the key risk management strategies employed by ark7 is diversification. By investing in fractional ownership of multiple properties, investors can spread their risk and reduce the potential impact of any single property underperforming. This diversification strategy helps to safeguard investors’ capital and minimize the impact of market fluctuations.
ark7 also conducts thorough due diligence on each property before it is made available for investment. The platform’s team of experts carefully assesses the property’s location, market conditions, and potential returns. This rigorous evaluation process ensures that only high-quality investment opportunities are presented to investors.
Additionally, ark7’s team of experts actively manages the properties to maximize returns and minimize risks. They monitor market trends, make necessary adjustments to the portfolio, and ensure that the properties are well-maintained. This hands-on approach sets ark7 apart from traditional investment options, where investors often have limited control over their investments.
Ark7 User Reviews and Success Stories. Is Ark7 Legit?
Ark7 has garnered positive reviews from users who have experienced the benefits of investing through the platform. Many investors praise the simplicity and accessibility of ark7, noting that it allows them to invest in real estate without the need for substantial capital. As of November 2023, Ark7 has a 4.1/5 review score on Trust Pilot.
Users also appreciate the transparency of fees and the platform’s commitment to providing detailed information about each property. The ability to track the performance of investments in real-time is another feature that users find valuable.
Several success stories have emerged from investors who have achieved significant returns through ark7. These success stories highlight the potential of real estate investing and how ark7’s unique approach can help individuals grow their wealth.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ark7
- Is Ark7 safe? ark7 employs various risk management strategies to protect investors’ capital. However, it’s important to note that all investments come with inherent risks, and there is no guarantee of returns.
- What are the fees associated with investing through ark7? Ark7 charges a management fee, which is a percentage of the total investment amount. This fee covers all the costs associated with property management, including maintenance, insurance, and taxes.
- Can I withdraw my investment at any time? ark7 offers liquidity options that allow investors to sell their fractional ownership and withdraw their investment. However, the availability of liquidity may depend on market conditions and the specific terms of the investment.
- What is the minimum investment amount on ark7? The minimum investment amount on ark7 is as low as $5, making it accessible to investors of all budgets.
Ark7 vs Fundrise. Which is Right for You?
ARK7: ARK7 is a real estate investment platform that aims to make real estate investing more accessible to a broader audience. It allows investors to buy shares in professionally managed residential properties with a relatively low minimum investment. ARK7 focuses on single-family and milti-family homes and provides a user-friendly platform for investors to build a diversified real estate portfolio.
Fundrise: Fundrise is also a real estate investment platform that operates with a focus on crowdfunding. It allows individuals to invest in a diversified portfolio of real estate assets, including residential and commercial properties. Fundrise offers different investment plans, including starter portfolios and advanced options, catering to various investor preferences. The platform emphasizes using technology to provide individuals with access to private market real estate investments.
Key Differences:
- Investment Approach:
- ARK7 primarily focuses on residential properties.
- Fundrise offers a range of real estate investments, including residential and commercial properties, providing investors with a broader set of options.
- Minimum Investment:
- ARK7 typically offers a lower minimum investment compared to Fundrise, making it potentially more accessible for investors with smaller budgets.
- Investment Options:
- Both platforms use technology to enable crowdfunding, but they may differ in the types of investment plans and strategies they offer.
- Diversification:
- Fundrise may provide more diverse investment options, including eREITs (Real Estate Investment Trusts) and eFunds, allowing investors to diversify across different types of real estate assets.
Conclusion
Ark7 is revolutionizing the real estate industry by offering a unique way to invest in professionally managed real estate portfolios. Through fractional ownership, investors can diversify their portfolios and gain access to properties that were once only available to high-net-worth individuals. With its transparent fees, active management, and user-friendly interface, ark7 provides a seamless investment experience for individuals looking to unlock the hidden potential of their investments.
If you’re tired of traditional investment options and want to explore the potential of real estate, ark7 may be the solution you’ve been waiting for. Join the thousands of investors who have already experienced the benefits of investing through ark7 and unlock the hidden potential of your investments today.
—
*Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as financial or investment advice. Investing in real estate involves risks, and investors should conduct their own due diligence before making any investment decisions.
READ MORE:
HOW TRADING BITCOIN GOT ME OUT OF DEBT
Bitcoin or say, any other cryptocurrency is just a way to store money and utilize it later on when its worth increases. Though this is a risky step to take, but many have been benefitted a lot through it rather than going into loss. And you know what? Many have even traded the bitcoin to get themselves out of severe debt cases. Though that’s all a matter of luck and also the economic situation of a state but currently bitcoin has been a source of real term profits.
Bitcoin in an interesting way of making loads of savings, cause it’s not the mainstream bank account money saving routine but in fact is thrilling and more engaging. Suppose if I purchase $100 of bitcoin, and after a year the worth raises even by 0.2% (thinking from the least) I would definitely get some amount for the investment I made earlier. This is how this profit cycle works. However, in different countries the case is different. Some people even go in debts after making huge investments in cryptocurrencies and that’s not what you should be doing AT ALL! There’s another surprising IT invention supporting the cryptocurrency; a software and that too, automated that claims to automatically trade, buy and sell bitcoin. It gives you a proper ratio of the market rate and hence makes sure that the currency you investing in is going to give you a decent profit.
This Bitcoin Trader review by Inside Bitcoins has eliminated the worries of the manual process, where you weren’t even sure the currency you are investing in is going to get you off debts or not. This software has also been endorsed upon the renowned programs such as the, ‘Shark Tank’ and the ‘ Dragons Den’. Trades are done within minutes and with amazing accuracy that you would be shocked upon. Additionally, here are some general tips I should drop in, so that trading bitcoin can quickly get you out of debt.
- This software can give you a return of almost 88%
- The app is highly functional, however you might have to handle some risks in auto-trading.
- For a beginner, I would suggest not to invest more than 250 euros. Once you get used to the software automation system and its functionality you can invest as much as you like, but for a start; keep it minimum.
- Your part is pretty much done, once you create an account and deposit the currency. Now you no longer have to contribute anything. Everything would be done by a Robot with 100% automation.
- Your account inside the software application is going to act as an app and get you the profits relative to your money.
This was all about how trading bitcoin can get you out of debt. Make sure to take the safety precautions before you jump into something you literally have no idea about! Good luck.
How to Invest Wisely with WeBull
The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second best time to do so is today. Investing your extra cash in the stock market for free while earning free stock with Webull is an excellent way to watch your money grow over a period of time. However, to maximize your returns, you need to invest you must money wisely by avoiding brokers that lack transparency and pass on a myriad of fees to their clients. To gain better control your financial future, you will need to set aside money on a regular basis to build your retirement nest egg or acquire capital for future business opportunities.
Stock or asset investing today is a lot more accessible, and some platforms like WeBull offers real-time market data, analysis tools, options, and zero commission trading for free from your browser, smartphone, or their desktop application. In addition, you get access to their paper trading platform which is a great tool for back-testing and practicing trading strategies without risking your capital.
So how you can you invest your money wisely after opening your Webull account? Here are a few pointers to get you started
Determine Your Trading Style
You will first need to evaluate how you want to invest in the stock market before making your first stock purchase. If you fail to plan, you plan to fail. Your availability, time management skills, and personality will be determining factors on what kind of trading or investment strategy will work best for you. A swing trader may hold stock positions for a day to a couple months. Day trader holding periods can go from seconds to hours, but usually close positions at the end of the day. Then there are your long term investors who may have positions open for months to even decades. Some traders prefer to go about investing alone, while others join trading discord servers, and other trading communities to exchange ideas. Whatever the case, it is best to take advantage of a free stock trading platform like Webull to ensure that you mitigate risk as much as possible when you begin your trading journey.
Create a Budget
This is another important factor you should consider when investing. Think about how much you’re willing to allocate to investing in a company or trading strategy. Dollar cost averaging is a great way to acquire shares over time as it is nearly impossible to perfectly time the market 100% of the time and get the best entry on your share purchases. Webull also offer members the opportunity to purchase fractional shares in the companies you love so now you can purchase fractions of small pieces of high priced stocks to further aid in diversification for smaller accounts. As a beginner, it is advisable that you should not invest more than 10% of your portfolio in any one stock. Set a limit on your investment against your total net worth and it should not exceed 20%. Check out this article on how to conduct a mid-year budget review and possibly free up some capital to fund your Webull account and trade for free.
Conduct Effective Research
There are over 10,000 stocks available for trade in US markets at any given time. Conducting effective research should be a key element in your trading plan. Keep up to date on overall market news, and pay attention to specific headlines which may affect companies you’re interested in. Research can be overwhelming due to the amount of information and strategies out there today. Verify the reputation of any new source or stock market “guru” you decide to follow, and be very skeptical of marketers offering trading strategies and returns that are too good to be true. If you do decide to go with a trading mentor, ensure to verify their trades, and backtest any strategy they offer using a Webull paper trading account before using a live account to trade real funds.
Diversify Your Investments
Once you have created an account through an online broker like Webull, stock diversification is one method used to mitigate risk. Buy stocks from different companies in different industries. While it might sound like a wonderful idea, your portfolio should not be comprised solely of tech, or trendy stocks sectors such as AI. Consider slow and steady moving industries such as utilities, or ETFs and Mutual Funds comprised of a basket of stocks.
Being awarded dividends is another great way to earn income on the shares you own in a company. Webull provides a neat divided search tool that can be used to filter out dividend paying stocks. Some investors use advance dividends tools from Dividends Stocks Online to find the best dividend income earning opportunities. They provide robust dividend scanners which allow you to search of stocks by dividend yield, ex-dividend dates, industry, and numerous other filters tied to the asset’s overall performance. One of the major benefits of dividend investing is the ability gain extra income while the stock is flat or in a downturn.
Separate your emotions
Participate in the market and don’t let emotions do your trading. You can never beat the stock market 100% of the time. Nor can you specifically predict when stock prices will rise or fall. Today market behavior is simply not good companies go up and bad companies go down; speculation is a factor to be considered. Fun fact: Most mutual funds don’t beat the market over time. Never let your emotions overcome your investment strategy if its proven to be profitable over time. Step away from the screen if you have to. However, learn to cut your losses and sell a stock if it goes below your risk tolerance levels.