Category Archives: Finance

10 Trending Crypto Exchanges in 2022

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Trends are born every few days in the world of cryptocurrency. Some crypto coins fall in price, some become more expensive. But in all of this fuss, it is vital to stick to the plan you have created and use reliable tools to make your financial operations.

On the one hand, some trends can be your friends rather than enemies. On the other hand, every popular method or tool should be viewed critically and analyzed. Still, the fashion for proven exchanges is good since it lets you choose a reliable tool in a minute and never regret using it.

The crazy popularity of exchanges like Coinbase, Kraken, and Binance makes the crypto world go round with thousands of transactions taking place every minute. So, this short read will enlist a few of the top exchanges for the end of 2021 to know which platforms you can confidently rely on.

First, we will describe 10 platforms on our top list. Let’s get started!

10 Trending Crypto Exchanges

1. Binance

This global crypto exchange is a leading service among low-fee platforms making crypto available for everyone. Its great plus for beginners is the intuitive interface and structure, allowing quick and efficient exchange with under 10,000 USD cost.

Binance can boast a choice of crypto coins. Its number in the domestic version exceeds 50 and is still growing. It seems like everything you can dream of in a crypto exchange is found on Binance. The only minus is that many US states currently do not allow their citizens to hold accounts on Binance.

2. Kraken

‘Low fees’ is the first thing that comes to mind of every Kraken enthusiast. And really, the maker fee at this service is very low and equals 0,16-0,26 % depending on the transaction. This makes the exchange a perfect choice for anyone buying crypto for individual use or business and orienting on bulk purchase.

This is also one of the first exchanges ever created in the history of cryptocurrency. It is super protected, has excellent cybersecurity safety records, and offers endless features for advanced users.

3. LetsExchange

This exchange is younger and, at first, may seem an unpretentious place. Until you find out it trades over 200 coins, calculates your profits, and never puts a limit on an exchange.

Starting level traders will appreciate the informative blog where relevant tips are regularly uploaded. For example, you can learn about the cryptocurrency list price or find out new trading strategies. Besides, a chart tool shows you the changes in the price of different crypto coins for the last 24 hours and the average profit received in this timeframe.

Plus, if you want to find the newest crypto coins and make, for example, XMR to PIVX exchange, this place will let it happen.

Other famous and reliable exchanges include:

4. com

Crypto.com exchange is also famous for a broad range of cryptocurrencies. Over 100 of them are available for trading, and it gives generous additional perks. In addition, the tool makes exchanges a funny game that you never want to quit!

bitcoin-introduction

5. Gemini

The service resembles Coinbase in its ease of use and functionality. It is perfect for beginners, with low convenience fees and plenty of opportunities to trade different sums.

6. io

With fees a bit higher than on Kraken and a more complicated trading procedure, this tool is still valuable because of the abundance of new Altcoins that you can exchange here with no limits.

7. coin

This less famous tool allows you to buy all types of coins at a relatively low fee of 0,1%. Its special perk includes having 20% off the fee if you pay with Ku coin’s KCS stable coins.

8. Coinbase Exchange

The place remains the largest US-founded exchange with the most attractive features but higher than average fees.

9. Bitfinex

Finally, there is an advanced tool for those in trading for a long time with the option of margin trading and lending.

10. Luno

Luno is primarily attractive for its easy use, accessibility of all kinds of coins, and perks such as free crypto for inviting friends. Here you can trade on the run.

Conclusion

Many of these platforms remain the gold standard to other services. As a result, using them will increase the odds of successful and secure trades. But don’t rely just on exchanges – count on your strategy and knowledge of the market.

Where Can I Exchange COTI to CAKE Safely and Fast?

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Investing in blockchain is not a walk on the park if you don’t know where to buy, sell, and convert your tokens. Are you looking for an excellent platform where you can convert COTI to CAKE safely and quickly? Find out how you can trade COTI for CAKE in this guide.

What is COTI?

COTI is an enterprise branding itself as a fintech project. Its main purpose is to an acceptable payment solution by digitizing any tokens and fiat currencies. This venture should minimize transaction fees and save time by performing quick transactions.

The project uses blockchain protocols to optimize decentralized payments. This functionality makes COTI user-friendly for DApps, governments, stable coin issuers, and merchants.

Where can I exchange COTI to CAKE

In an attempt to bring a change in the blockchain ecosystem, the COTI group launched COTI Pay. This app counters challenges and risks arising from using conventional financial services.

COTI is exceptional in the way it effortlessly creates time-saving fintech products using fewer data and money. As a result, you can optimize the platform and trade the stablecoin for other tokens. 

What is CAKE?

CAKE crypto is a decentralized native token fueling the PancakeSwap ecosystem since June 2019. Its main role was to generate liquidity and cash flow within the blockchain space. 

Though it is a DeFi project, CAKE operates on the Bitcoin network. The token circulates through proof of stake protocols and master nodes.

CAKE is an all-time crypto project for investors who want to make passive income. If you want to make passive income, here is a chance to trade in the PancakeSwap ecosystem. In addition, you can earn rewards by staking CAKE tokens –you will earn rewards for holding your assets on the platform. Consequently, many merchants use the platform to acquire higher rewards. Reasons you should invest in CAKE:

  • The platform is decentralized, making it easier to earn higher returns even when prices drop.
  • The site is transparent, thus allowing traders to analyze the software metrics on the public nodes and calculate rewards. 
  • You don’t have to worry about the safety of your assets, thanks to the enhanced safety features. 

Where to exchange COTI to CAKE quickly and safely

Here are the top three sites you should try to find favorable crypto exchange rankings and pairs for profitable COTI to CAKE investments. 

1. Binance

This exchange platform is popular for processing almost every crypto transaction. Unlike other exchanges, trading COTI for tokens like CAKE on Binance is quick and doesn’t incur a higher conversion fee. You are also guaranteed liquidity when trading on Binance, making buying, selling, and exchanging assets easier. 

2. KuCoin

KuCoin is a well-known competitive trading platform renowned for charging lower transaction fees safely. Since its inception, KuCoin has been providing secure and fast transactions for more than 200 tokens, including COTI. And the best thing about KuCoin is that you will find the newest cryptocurrencies listed on the platform. This gives you a chance to try investing in new assets. 

3. Gate.io

This exchange site guarantees safe, quick crypto transactions for new and experienced traders. In addition, traders can find a variety of altcoins on Gate.io, including a COTI to CAKE trading pair. 

Think It’s Too Early for Maternity Insurance? Read This

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Childbirth is a beautiful experience, and it is a joy for parents to welcome new life into this world. However, the process comes with its set of financial hurdles in the form of hospitalizations, birth complications, among other things. A maternity insurance is the best way to ensure that expectant mothers and their new-born children get the care they deserve.

Before you choose the maternity insurance policy you want to take, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. If you are thinking about getting a maternity insurance policy, then this article is for you. We will look at why you need an insurance policy, some tips you should know about, and what maternity insurance covers.

Things to Keep in Mind Before Buying A Maternity Insurance

What is Maternity Insurance?

Maternity insurance helps to ensure that the expecting mothers and their families enjoy the smooth journey of motherhood. It is advisable to get a pregnancy scan first to check your pregnancy. The progressive rise of medical expenses and soaring hospitalization costs could cause financial hardship for expecting couples if they have not taken out a policy.

As a parent, you want a maternity health plan that would help you cover the costs of childbirth and pregnancy. With rising medical inflation and skyrocketing hospitalization charges, you know you are faced with lots of financial hurdles in your journey as a parent.

Why Is Maternity Insurance Important and When Should You Buy One?

Women must have access to good healthcare facilities before and during delivery. However, rising healthcare inflation presents a challenge. That’s why health insurance with maternity coverage is essential.

There is often a waiting period for health insurance with maternity cover, so ideally you should opt for it a few years before you wish to start your family. The maternity insurance policy by Care Insurance has a waiting period ranging from 9 months to 24 months, depending on the type of policy you choose.

Things to Keep in Mind Before Buying A Maternity Insurance

Before you decide which maternity insurance you want to take, there are a few things you should keep in mind. Let’s take a look.

  • Select a maternity insurance plan that protects you not only against hospitalization costs but also against other important medical expenses.
  • Check out the cashless network hospitals so you’ll be able to access them easily in case of an emergency.
  • There are a few benefits you need to look for in maternity plans, including coverage for new-born babies, day-care procedures, and new-age treatments.
  • Get information about how to file a maternity insurance claim, so that you will not face any delays or hassles.
  • Look out for ways to save money. For instance, you may be able to save money by buying a multi-year policy.
  • It is important to understand the policy inclusions, sub-limits, and waiting period in the policy documents.

What Does Maternity Insurance Cover?

Health-related complications during delivery are a cause of concern in expectant mothers. So, it is important to know the extents of the maternity insurance coverage to avoid any disappointments in a time of need.

Maternity insurance covers expenses both before and after birth. Some policies also provide insurance for new-born babies until 90 days after birth. Furthermore, you can also get a tax benefit on the premiums paid for the maternity insurance. They help you reduce your tax liability and plan for medical expenses- so it’s a win-win!

Some maternity insurance policies also give you easy settlement options by providing cashless service. All you have to do is present your card at partner hospitals and your expenses are taken care of. Even if you opt for a non-partner hospital, you can provide the right documents and get your claim processed.

Plan Your Family’s Future

Hospitalizations and medical expenses during childbirth can be a major hurdle for parents. To ensure a healthy pregnancy, you should make sure that the financial aspect is taken care of so that you can take care of your family.

Maternity insurance helps you prepare for medical expenses, take care of hospital bills, and prepare for complications. You should get a head start and look at policies that suit your needs.

Top Reasons Why Popularity of Bitcoin is Getting on its Peak

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The popularity of the cryptocurrency market has already passed the market of critical psychology. It is proven to be great that it is continually offering so many benefits to investors.  There are a lot of crypto companies out there that are continually investing money in bitcoin. Bitcoin has become the leading cryptocurrency, and the price of it is continually rising.

If you want to invest money in bitcoin, you will have to pay close attention to various important things. Lots of retail investors, famous billionaire investors and large institutions are continually investing money in it. Therefore, it would be better to start with Bitcoin payments that has become one of the most popular trading platforms to help you buy and sell bitcoin. Here are a few things that you need to consider before investing money in bitcoin.

Reasons Why Popularity Of Bitcoin Is Getting On Its Peak

Limited supply

You will find different kinds of assets out there that are already considered a store of value. The most popular and common asset that comes to mind is expensive metals like gold or anything that comes with a limited supply.

Bitcoin is also similar to gold with a limited supply and offers considerable benefits to investors. If you also want to invest money in bitcoin, you will always need a steadier financial plan like a genuine portfolio of low-cost index funds that will benefit you.

Accepting in business

No doubt, the world has become a highly digital play.  Trading has already been possible via an electronic payment system. Moreover, online trading is being possible via payment services. Cryptocurrencies are continually getting popular that are continually following a person-to-person system and always use a primary medium of exchange. Moreover, blockchain technology is always used in various cryptocurrencies that use cryptography to create new units and protect transactions easily.

Cryptocurrencies are considered one of the best alternatives to conventional currencies as these are continually following a decentralized network. If you are a beginner in the world of bitcoin, then it is your responsibility to invest a considerable amount of time in research and learn everything about it. Make sure that you are making a genuine decision.

Popularity of cryptocurrencies

Just like conventional cryptocurrencies, bitcoin also comes with a value. The bitcoin market is entirely volatile, and the value of such an incredible cryptocurrency keeps on fluctuating. The main reason such significant cryptocurrency’s value is skyrocketing is just because of pervasive usage across the world.

bitcoin-cash

Most individuals and businesses are continually using bitcoin as a primary payment method instead of conventional currencies. In addition, many consumers are continually using such fantastic cryptocurrency just because of higher convenience and higher safety & security.

Make A Genuine Decision

You will find cryptocurrencies like bitcoin are continually gaining massive popularity because many companies and businesses are continually accepting bitcoin in their businesses as a primary payment method. Through this, trading has become entirely possible and more accessible for a person. You will find many people are continually choosing the businesses, real estate businesses and coffee shops that can accept bitcoin payments. Make sure that you are paying close attention to the value of bitcoin and its growth rate.

According to the professionals, the value of such an incredible cryptocurrency will surely increase as lots of businesses and retailers are continually accepting it as a primary payment method. If you don’t want to face any complicated problems in the future, then you should invest wisely.

Cheap, easy and quick transaction

Bitcoin has become one of the significant cryptocurrencies that aren’t dependent on any bank & central authority. The best thing about bitcoin is that you will not have to pay a higher transaction fee if you transfer to others.

For example, suppose you are transferring funds via banks internationally. In that case, the bank will charge huge charges like transaction fees from both receiver and sender that take many days to complete a specific transaction. However, suppose you are transferring funds via bitcoin. In that case, it can be quite a more straightforward process because it takes a few minutes to complete a particular transaction, and you don’t have to pay a higher fee for the transaction.

9 Different Ways to Fundraise for a Biomass Energy Project

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Raising funds for a biomass energy project can be challenging. You can achieve your sustainable energy goals with creativity and determination. Starting your biomass project is a perfect way to take good care of the environment for future generations to enjoy.

how to raise funds for biomass projects

Ways To Fundraise For A Biomass Energy Project

1. Start A Crowdfunding Campaign

Kickstart your fundraising for your biomass energy project with a crowdfunding campaign on different crowdfunding platforms. Craft a compelling story about your project’s environmental benefits. Sweeten the deal by offering special rewards and keeping backers in the loop with updates. It’s a great way to get support rolling in.

2. Look For Government Support

Keep an eye out for government incentives, subsidies, or grants for your biomass project. Many countries offer financial support to boost sustainable energy sources. Explore what’s available at the national, regional, and local levels. It’s a smart move to tap into these resources and turn your sustainable energy dreams into reality.

3. Create A Picture Book

A cool fundraising idea is to create a picture book showcasing your past successful biomass energy projects. You can design photo book templates to show how these projects benefit the environment and communities.

You can also use your masterpiece as a thank-you gift to donors or sell it to raise funds. It’s a great way to build trust with potential supporters by showing your track record and gratitude for their support.

4. Team Up With The Right People

Consider teaming up with businesses that share your mission and passion for the environment. Some companies love investing in sustainable energy to give back to the environment and care for the planet. You can work together and team up to achieve your goals. It’s a win-win situation for everyone involved.

5. Organize Fund-raising Events

Organize fun fundraising events like charity dinners, auctions, or gatherings with an environmental twist. These could give you the perfect opportunity to educate attendees about your cause. It is a fun way to spread awareness about the benefits of biomass energy while gaining funds for your project.

why bioenergy is the future

6. Workshops And Seminars

Why not organize some workshops or seminars focused on biomass energy? You can encourage attendees to donate or commit to supporting your project during these events. It’s a great chance to educate them about the science behind biomass energy and how it benefits our environment. Plus, you’ll be gathering support for your important initiative.

7. Look Out For Microloans

Take a look online for microloans aimed at green energy projects. You’ll find small loans from individuals who are eager to support sustainable initiatives. It can help you with your money problems and help your cause. Taking out a loan is a big help for your goals and the environment.

8. Involve The Community

Get your community on board with your biomass energy project by giving them a chance to invest. Consider offering them bonds or shares so they can join in and share the project’s success. It is a fantastic way to let the community help preserve the environment. Everybody gets to help save the planet in their own way.

9. Seek Help From Government Agencies

Explore deals with government agencies or eco-conscious energy companies. They could be your ticket to a stable income for your biomass energy project. You may need all the help you can get to raise your funds. Take advantage of companies that are willing to help you achieve your goals.

The Bottom Line

Fundraising for a biomass project can be a challenging journey. Raising money for your cause is always tricky when it comes to these things. You need to make efforts to convince potential donors to help you with your cause. Use the different ways given above to help speed up raising funds to help the environment.

How Much Millennials Need to Save for Retirement

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Retirement can be the last course of life to be in the mind of millennials. But, life is getting tough by the time as the technology is taking over. Millennials now need to save 40% of their income as compared to 15% of the past saving plans. Right now, millennials are the ones in the toughest position and it can get tougher by the time of retirement.

However, let us do some math here to understand how much savings millennials need for the retirement plan and how they can make it happen.

Importance of Retirement Plan for Millennials?

The employment program is reshaping into automation, artificial intelligence, and machine learning along with a lot of other technological advancements. So, you need to invest more in on-demand skills and mental resilience including overall health. Because you need to be fit and mentally healthy to survive the wave of technological advancements.

millennials-savings-plan

More importantly, you need a retirement plan for you to live a happy and joyful life in the last years. Besides of retirement plan, you can also consider life insurance for seniors, visit SeniorsLifeInsuranceFinder.com.

Experts About the Retirement

In 2016, the 17th Annual Transamerica Retirement Survey of Workers gave their perspective on the retirement for baby boomers, millennials, and Generation X. According to it, 72 percent of people contributing to 401(k) plans were born in 1979 and 2000 is around 72 percent and investing around 7% of their annual pay. And the other 30% invest more than 10%.

The same report shares the way boomers and Generation X had early withdrawals of their investments stating the major issues or debt pay-offs. So, millennials need to learn from the other generations and plan better.

So, you must be asking a question; how to plan your retirement budget?

How to Plan a Budget to Retire by the Age of 70 or Above?

Just assume that you have $23,000 in your IRA and you are planning to retire in the next 30 years. Moreover, you happen to manage to set aside $100 a month over the next three decades, you will end up with about $288,000 in total.

It is only if your investments in that IRA deliver an average annual 7% return for the remainder of your savings window. There may be other complications, but you can get through them while you’re planning retirement.

The question here is that if you are aiming to have this much amount at your retirement, how can you save it in this ongoing era of low wages and economic downfall?

1. Invest Early and Often

The main thing you need to do is to invest early and make it often. If you cannot 40% of your income, at least invest in the skills and health plans. Because by the time you retire, your skills and health can be core essentials to help you keep going.

2. Save Your Bonuses for the Retirement

Another plan is to start adding your bonuses to the savings account. So, next, when you are celebrating receiving a bonus, make it count by adding it into your savings account. In case you are not getting any raises or bonuses, you can still add some of the amounts from your income to save for a better lifestyle at the time of retirement.

3. Woman or Have a Family? Save Even More

Women generally dismiss the retirement plan. But they are more on the edge without a retirement plan. So, if you are a woman with or without a family, save even more.

Despite all the women equality protests, women are still facing low wage issues. So, if you are working around the clock and still end up with lower savings, you may need a better plan for your retirement. Therefore, start saving more by cutting more percentage from your income.

4. Have a Side Job

If you are dreaming about the comfortable retirement time and you don’t have enough income to cut 40% out of it, you can have a side job. Plan this job only for retirement and include the income in your retirement plan. It is just a way of planning for the long-term.

5. Pick Any of the Expense and Save It

We can increase our expenses and cut them off for our good. So, if you cut off some of the expenses, do it and include them in the retirement money. Yes, life is about living in a present, but the last years of your life shouldn’t be broke because you were busy living the life of the present.

Plan it accordingly and save for the days when you might want better health care and even a better lifestyle.

6. Invest in Different Plans

Invest in the 401(k) plan or choose IRA plans to smoothly plan your budget. Usually, all plans offer a tax advantage, but 401(k) and IRA are the hottest options in the market. For example, 401(k) contributions are made with pre-tax dollars, which reduces your taxable income. Roth IRAs, in contrast, are funded with after-tax dollars but withdrawals are tax-free.

So, find the institution offering these plans and start investing right now. All you need is to learn from the mistakes of boomers and other generations.

Final Thoughts

Ultimately, you need to prepare yourself for retirement. Do your math or listen to the financial experts to understand and manage your money accordingly. Millennials are hungry for the information and putting up important fights too.

So, they need to be mentally aware of their retirement plans too. Also, the job of the future is changing and you will need a safety plan to be healthy and fine.

What You Should Know Before Investing in Bioenergy Stocks

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In recent years, there has been a gradual shift that has seen people paying extra attention to biomass energy and more environmentally friendly options, which has filtered down to their lifestyle choices as well. However, this is not to say that it is a relatively new concept, as bioenergy is said to be one of the world’s oldest sources of energy. Although initially, it did not lead to many benefits or returns for investors, that has been improving. In 2021, particularly, reports have noted that the industry is starting to find its footing and entrench itself as one worth investing in.

Through the use of technology and key differentiators, many industry players are fast attracting investors and highlighting the competitive advantage that the industry holds over other less sustainable alternatives. In light of this, one might argue that investing in bioenergy may prove to be a viable sustainable forex trading option, given that the industry has been showing a certain level of growth and may possibly reach new heights in years to come.

biofuel-production

Investing in bioenergy stocks

Before investing in biomass energy stocks, however, it is worth noting that it is generally a more expensive energy source to produce. Additionally, naysayers have highlighted that it requires a lot of wood from natural forests, which some people will ultimately lead to deforestation. Although generally championed as the more environmentally friendly alternative, writings on the matter claim that if the wood is not fully burnt, it can result in particles that contribute to air pollution.

These are perhaps some of the reasons behind the initial hesitance to invest in biomass energy. On the upside, bioenergy is a great way to repurpose waste and it can be stored with minimal energy loss.

Penny stocks and economies

Given that most of the biomass energy companies are listed on stock exchanges, it is therefore true that the decisions that investors make on the stock market will affect the prices and availability of commodities in global economies.

Having an understanding of this can better guide and inform your decisions as an investor on how to trade stocks or commodities. These include penny stocks, which can be defined as common shares of small public companies that trade for less than one dollar per share. In light of the activity that the bio energy industry has been experiencing, it is no surprise that there is correlating activity amongst penny stocks.

bioethanol india

As at July 2021, listed amongst some of the best energy penny stocks that you might want to consider investing in were Southwestern Energy, Transportadora de Gas, Taronis Fuels and Denison Mines. Of these, Taronis Fuels is described as a global industry player that produces renewable and socially responsible fuel products. It is also said to have a high liquidity and trades more than 160 829 shares per day. Southwestern Energy is described as one of the largest natural gas and natural gas liquid providers in the US. To provide an indication of its activity and investor confidence, it reportedly trades more than a whopping 3.7 million shares per day.

Recommended Resource: How BioEnergy Can Change the World

Solar Energy Prospects in Oman

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Even the fleetest of glances at global solar energy map shows Oman to be well placed to exploit the energy-giving rays of the sun. In fact, over the last few years, a gaggle of reports have been published extolling the virtues of exploiting this renewable energy source. However, with increasing and more urbanised populations consuming greater and greater amounts of energy, only now are governments across the Gulf and wider MENA regions seriously looking at harnessing solar power to help fill potential energy deficits.

Sealing and mounting application of epoxy resins increase the environmental tolerance of the solar equipment

Mr Jigar Shah, quoted in a recent article, said investors were “desperate to invest in the Middle East solar industry” and were waiting for clear instructions from the governments in the region. He said, “The economics of switching to solar energy are far better here than in South Africa, India, Brazil, China and the US. Now that the costs of developing solar technologies have significantly declined, it is time for the Middle East to turn talk into action.”

That there is huge potential in the solar industry was underlined in no uncertain terms by the announcement last year of a $2 billion project to develop solar power projects in Oman. The plans also envisage creating industrial plants for the manufacture of solar panels and aluminium frames, to be used by the power station and also for local consumption and export.

Knowledge and technology transfer were also critical contributors to the success of the project which also aimed to tie-up with major international technology companies and international universities with expertise in renewable energy education, to help train the local population in servicing this burgeoning industry.

David Heimhofer, Chairman of Terra Nex Group and Managing Director of Middle East Best Select Fund, said, “By attracting foreign direct investment in the growing renewable energy sector and using German expertise, Oman will become not just a regional leader in the field, but also benefit from the great intrinsic value within the complete value chain associated with this economic sector. He says“In addition to generating new jobs for the Omani people and boosting exports, this project creates an entire industry that Oman can be proud of.”

The project is expected to deliver more than 2000 jobs for Omanis across a diverse range of industrial sectors and services. In order to increase the skill set of the local population to help service these new jobs, the University of Zurich proposed the setting up of an educational institution in the Sultanate specialising in the field of renewable energy engineering.

4 Things to Do When You’ve Faced Identity Theft Online

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Our current level of technological development allows online users to get jobs on a different continent or communicate naturally with people miles away. We have instant access to information and easy access to technology but we’re also more exposed to risks than ever.

While being online browsing and using social media is something millions of people do every day, very few of them are aware of the many Identity Theft scams that run online (among others). According to the 2021 Identity Fraud Study by Javelin Strategy & Research, Americans lost around $56 Bn to ID fraud in 2020.

ID theft online is a sneaky thing because the victim doesn’t take notice until it’s too late to do anything to stop the damage. When they learn something is wrong, all they can do is try to mitigate the disaster. So, if you’ve faced ID theft and you’ve become a victim or believe you may be one in the future, here are the four main steps to take:

Identity Theft Online

1. Get Extra Protection

Start by checking all your accounts (banking, email, social media, and others). Change the current passwords and implement two-factor authentication on the ones that allow it. Also, check with your bank and let them know you think someone stole your ID.

Next, add an identity theft service that protects your digital and financial identity by setting up watchlists and services that monitor your most important accounts.

2. Put a Fraud Alert on your Credit Report

One of the biggest inconveniences of ID fraud is a damaged credit score. This can have long-lasting effects that continue even after you’ve dealt with most of the aftermath of being an ID theft victim.

Plus, a fraud alert on your credit report lets anyone checking it know something is wrong. So, in case someone uses your data to get online loans, apply for a job, or get a credit card, the fraud alert will warn them to stop the action and alert you (the owner).

To put a fraud alert, you only have to contact one of the three credit reporting agencies in the country. Since they share a database, once a fraud alert is placed by one of the agencies, it will notify the other two as well. A fraud alert is free and it lasts for one year (it can be prolonged) – it’s an easy-to-use protection method in case of emergency.

3. Check your Credit Card Reports & Your Accounts

Once you place a fraud alert, you’ll receive a free credit card report from each agency. Use these to look for evidence of fraud such as new accounts you didn’t apply for, employers you’ve never heard of, payments you’ve never made, and anything out of the ordinary.

Also, make sure to regularly check your accounts for vanishing amounts or transactions you haven’t authorized.

4. Talk to the Authorities

While there’s not much they can do until you are sure your identity has been compromised, they will provide guidance on the steps to take until then. You can also familiarize yourself with the process, in case fraud is confirmed (so you’ll be able to act fast).

In the US, you’ll have to report the event to the FTC and the police (in that order). Make sure you know what data to include in these reports so all your accounts are covered. Once this step is complete, you will have to start the long journey of contacting each agency, company, organization, and more that provide you a service or might be convinced to open new accounts or provide services in your name.

Wrap Up

ID theft is a lucrative line of business and even though there are many new technologies that could make a difference in the near future (like blockchain), for now, it’s best to practice caution when navigating online.

Going Green – Are Green Finance Deals Really Worth It?

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Whether you are looking to go green because you are selflessly trying to help save the planet, you want to save some of your hard-earned cash, or, most likely, a combination of the two, deciding to make your lifestyle and your home more environmentally friendly does come at a cost.

Green Finance

Fortunately, lenders are now offering more cost-effective ways for you to embrace sustainability. From solar panel agreements to energy improvement mortgages to short-term loans for smaller green changes, keep reading to discover all the green finance deals on offer.

Energy Improvement Mortgages

If you are looking to make eco-friendly improvements to your home, such as more energy-efficient windows, additional insulation, or a better heating and cooling system, an energy improvement mortgage can help you to achieve your goals.

For those that already have a mortgage, you can increase your loan amount by refinancing your mortgage to cover the costs of your new upgrades. Although this will increase your monthly mortgage payments, you will recoup this over time through lower energy bills. (If you are age 62+, consider refinancing into a reverse mortgage for the same result)

In fact, by simply installing double-glazed windows in your home, you can expect to save $250-$300 per year. Given that these windows can last up to 20 years, this could save you $6000 over their life span. Furthermore, if you choose to install triple-glazed windows, you can expect further savings of between 5%-10%.

Short-term loans

If you are looking to make a series of smaller changes to your home, which do all add up to significant savings, your best bet may be to take out a short-term loan.

Cashlady offers quick cash loans that can be approved almost immediately, typically lending lower amounts that are paid back within short timeframes.

Small green upgrades that you may want to consider making include:

  • Installing LED lights that last longer and waste less energy than standard fluorescent bulbs – save up to $75 a year.
  • Fixing any inside or outside leaks – save up to $35 a year.
  • Replacing an old toilet with a WaterSense model – save $100 per year.
  • Planting shade trees – save $35-$199 a year.
  • Purchasing energy-efficient appliances. By upgrading all of your appliances, including your dishwasher, oven, fridge-freezer, and kettles to ones with a higher efficiency rating, you will use up to 40% less energy.

Solar leasing or PPAs 

Did you know that more than 75% of American households have access to third-party owned solar power?

What exactly is this?

Both solar leasing and power purchase agreements involve the solar provider in question paying for and being the rightful owner of your solar power system. They will take care of the system installation, the maintenance, and any repairs that need carrying out.

solar-leasing

Solar leasing can be advantageous, as you do not need to pay for any upfront costs to install the solar system. However, the savings you make will be less than if you purchased the solar panels outright, plus the provider is entitled to the financial incentives for going solar.

Alternatively, if you want to purchase solar panels outright, you could consider a home equity loan. Buying solar panels is not a cheap option (you can expect to pay between $10,000 and $30,000 depending on the size of your home). However, they are expected to last for at least 25 years with a less than 10-year payback on the system, meaning you could potentially enjoy 15 years of free electricity.