The traditional concept of retirement is changing dramatically as more employees choose to gradually transition from full-time work to retirement. This technique, known as phased retirement, is gaining popularity as a result of rising inflation, health concerns, and a desire to continue living with purpose and fulfillment.

Why is Phased Retirement Gaining Popularity?

WTW’s recent research shows that there is an increasing desire for flexible work arrangements and gradual retirement. Fortune’s coverage of the phased retirement trend demonstrates that workplaces are changing, and firms must alter their retirement programs to keep up. Similarly, a Fidelity Investments poll found that two-thirds of respondents prefer a progressive approach to leaving the workforce.

Phased retirement enables individuals to minimize their duties or transition to less demanding tasks while remaining with their current employer. Although this may result in a corresponding wage loss, it has various advantages. Employees can continue their income, stay in touch with colleagues, and gradually transition into retirement.

This technique allows firms to retain the important experience of senior staff at a cheaper cost. It also allows for a smoother transfer of knowledge to younger employees, who may be more likely to stay with the company if they see a flexible retirement path for themselves in the future.

Financial Security and Health Considerations

Inflation is a major factor driving the increased interest in phased retirement. With growing living costs, many people find that continuing to work part-time helps to mitigate the impact of inflation on their savings. This financial buffer offers stability and peace of mind.

Health is another critical factor. People’s health worries may prevent them from totally retiring as they age. Phased retirement enables people to remain in the workforce while managing their health, providing a scheduled routine and necessary social interaction that helps to overall well-being.

The Search for Purpose and Fulfillment

Retirement can sometimes cause feelings of solitude and loss of identity. Work frequently provides a sense of purpose and happiness, and phased retirement contributes to this sense of fulfillment. Individuals who shift gradually can continue to contribute to their field, pursue their passions, and be active members of their communities.

Advantages of Phased Retirement

• Financial Security: Working part-time supplements retirement income and mitigates the consequences of inflation.
• Improved wellness: A scheduled work regimen and social involvement promote physical and mental wellness.
• Increased Fulfillment: Phased retirement provides a feeling of purpose while retaining a good attitude about life.
• Flexibility: Customize your phased retirement plan to meet your individual needs and interests.

Steps for Implementing a Phased Retirement Plan

• Assess Your Financial Situation: Determine your income requirements and assess your retirement funds to guarantee you can keep your preferred lifestyle.
• Consider your health: Consider your physical and emotional health to assess whether a part-time job is doable and beneficial.
• Explore Career Options: Determine your hobbies and skills to identify suitable part-time work.
• Negotiate with your employer: Discuss phased retirement possibilities with your employer, such as reduced hours or progressive reduction in responsibility.
• Create a Plan: Create a complete phased retirement plan that includes your goals, timing, and financial approach.

To Conclude 

Phased retirement is becoming increasingly popular as a flexible and rewarding option to transition from full-time employment to retirement. Individuals can build a phased retirement plan that meets their own needs by carefully planning and taking into account financial, health, and personal goals. As the concept of retirement changes, phased retirement is expected to become a more common option for people looking for a smooth and fulfilling transition into their golden years.

It is a basic right for every child to receive an education that is both inclusive and of high quality. However, in Africa, there are nearly 46 million children of school age who do not attend school. Those who face the greatest challenges, particularly those impacted by conflict and climate crises, often lack access to education the most.

According to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation, of the 244 million children globally between ages 6 and 18 who are not in school, more than 98 million—or over 40%—reside in sub-Saharan Africa. This includes significant numbers in Nigeria (20.2 million), Ethiopia (10.5 million), the Democratic Republic of Congo (5.9 million), and Kenya (1.8 million). Currently, sub-Saharan Africa exhibits the highest levels of educational deprivation worldwide, with an alarming 90% of children unable to competently read or comprehend a basic text by age 10. Children entrenched in areas plagued by conflict or climate-related emergencies are disproportionately impacted by this learning deficit, suffering the highest rates of educational shortfall in the region. Over half of all children worldwide affected by crises are in sub-Saharan Africa. These vulnerable children should be prioritised for extensive educational support to aid their learning and rehabilitation; however, many are unfortunately left without such assistance.

It is widely recognised that education is a critical component for socio-economic development, significantly contributing to the improvement of individual lives and community welfare. Education equips people with crucial skills, knowledge, and abilities necessary for personal development and societal progress. The benefits of education extend past scholastic achievement, advancing economic growth, alleviating poverty, promoting social fairness, bettering health conditions, stimulating innovation, encouraging environmental preservation, reinforcing community connections, and supporting self-actualisation.

From an economic standpoint, education is a driving force for expansion and improvement, boosting the productivity and innovative capacity of the labour market. Individuals with education are more likely to land better-paying jobs, foster technological progress, and spearhead initiatives, which in turn enrich overall economic performance and consistency. Additionally, education is crucial in reducing poverty, as it arms people with vital skills to escape persistent deprivation. Quality education not only broadens job prospects but also provides individuals with essential insights that influence their choices regarding health, dietary habits, and family planning, thus enhancing the general quality of life.

Education acts as a leveler, providing opportunities for people from all walks of life to thrive and contribute to society. It encourages social harmony by teaching acceptance and respect for differences and enables individuals to partake in meaningful discussions and unite on community matters. By granting knowledge and skills, education empowers people to make choices, speak up for themselves, and influence their futures. It reduces inequalities related to gender, ethnicity, or income through accessible educational opportunities. Moreover, an educated public is more likely to take part in civic duties, comprehend their rights, and actively engage in democratic processes, promoting a fair and just society.

Access Bank PLC, one of Africa’s premier financial institutions, continues to reaffirm its dedication to education and community development through its annual Charity Polo Tournament. During the 2024 event, Access Bank announced the construction of 60 additional classrooms in Maraban Jos, Kaduna. This initiative underscores the transformative power of sports in driving community upliftment.

The tournament, which attracted dignitaries, sports enthusiasts, and philanthropists, highlighted how sports can serve as a powerful catalyst for social good. This year’s announcement builds on the Bank’s commendable efforts in 2023, where they commissioned 30 blocks, each comprising two classrooms, during the same event.

Upon the project’s completion, Access Bank aims to double the enrolment capacity of the Access Bank Fifth Chukker School. This expansion is poised to significantly enhance educational opportunities, building on the school’s success in providing quality education and social welfare to approximately 14,000 children to date. The Polo Tournament has also, in recent years, been extended to include South Africa, with a partnership with the Nelson Mandela Foundation forming a foundation for scaled impact across the continent. Access Bank’s initiatives include scholarships, mentorship programs, and providing a comprehensive educational experience for underserved students.

Continuing with similar initiatives, Access Bank, in collaboration with the Temitayo Awosika Help Foundation, launched the Back to School Project to lessen financial pressures on parents and guardians of children with sickle cell disease. This noble cause has provided over 12,000 underprivileged students with vital scholastic materials. These materials comprise textbooks essential for thorough learning, backpacks for the efficient and safe transport of items, notebooks designed for effective note-taking and homework, along with an array of stationery crucial for everyday learning tasks. Through this provision, TAHF aims to promote educational opportunity and equity, ensuring that children from all economic backgrounds have the essential instruments to thrive academically.

Furthering its efforts to reduce the number of out-of-school children, Access Bank partnered with Kidpreneur Africa to launch “Project Educate Me.” This initiative aims to empower internally displaced and underserved youth with essential literacy, financial, digital, and life skills. Targeting vulnerable populations in Adamawa, Katsina, and Borno states, Project Educate Me will support children in specific local government areas. By collaborating with stakeholders, the project seeks to directly benefit over 150,000 children, ensuring positive, lasting impacts on their lives and futures.

Access Bank Ghana’s partnership with CHAINT AFRIQUE on the “A Sandal More” project, an initiative focused on upcycling used car tires into eco-friendly, durable school sandals. This innovative project addresses the dual needs of promoting quality and inclusive education for all children by providing sandals to underprivileged children, and promoting environmental sustainability by repurposing waste materials. The project was launched in 2023 supported 1,000 school children in Ghana with sandals made from tires. The initiative has impacted over 400 communities and involved skills acquisition programs for youth and entrepreneurs to build capacity on recycling old tires, with 1,000 individuals trained. Collection hubs were provided in various locations for the collection of old tires from customers and employees

Building on its success in Ghana, Access Bank Nigeria partnered with FREEE Recycle to launch a transformative initiative in Oyo State. The program collected and recycled 706 discarded tires from the Oyo environs through FREEE’s network of aggregators. The recycled tires were utilised to produce 2,500 rubber sandals, benefiting school children in various communities across Oyo State. This initiative not only addressed critical waste management challenges by promoting recycling and reducing carbon emissions but also enhanced access to education by providing footwear to school children. Additionally, Access Bank and FREEE Recycle were committed to empowering local communities through skills development, ensuring sustainable contributions to FREEE Recycle’s manufacturing operations and fostering environmental stewardship across the region.

In Zambia, many girls encounter formidable challenges due to the considerable distances they must traverse to reach school. These distances often pose a barrier to their education, especially in rural areas like Kasama. Recognising this obstacle, Access Bank Zambia has made a significant contribution to the Strong Girls Strong Zambia Campaign by donating 60 bicycles. These bicycles play a crucial role in enhancing educational opportunities for vulnerable girls. By providing a means of transportation, Access Bank Zambia is helping to overcome the logistical hurdles that often prevent girls from attending school regularly and punctually. This initiative not only ensures safer and more efficient travel but also empowers girls to prioritise their education, thereby fostering their academic success and personal development.

Access Bank is actively addressing educational barriers, empowering vulnerable populations, and promoting sustainable development. By focusing on literacy, empowerment, and community engagement, Access Bank not only transforms individual lives but also contributes significantly to the socio-economic advancement of communities. As we all know, education is a fundamental human right and it is our obligation to ensure no child is left behind.

Kickstarting Your Investment Journey: The Free Demat Account

Before diving into stock investments, securing a Demat account is paramount. A Demat account, short for dematerialised account, electronically holds your securities, thus eliminating the need for cumbersome physical share certificates. Opting to open a free Demat account is an ideal starting point for beginners looking to minimise initial costs.

Why Opt for a Free Demat Account?

1. Cost Efficiency: Avoiding account opening and maintenance fees allows you to channel more funds directly into investments.
2. Ease of Use: An electronic system simplifies the processes of buying, selling, and managing your securities.
3. Enhanced Security: Digital records prevent the risks associated with theft, loss, or damage of physical certificates.

To open a free Demat account, choose a credible Depository Participant (DP), such as a bank or brokerage firm, offering free account services. You will need to complete the KYC (Know Your Customer) process by submitting identification and address proofs. Once your account is activated, you can begin managing your investments online.

The Rising Star: AI Stocks in India

Artificial intelligence (AI) is a transformative technology that is revolutionising industries globally. Investing in AI stocks presents a lucrative opportunity, especially as AI continues to integrate into various sectors, driving innovation and efficiency.

Why AI Stocks Are Worth Considering

1. High Growth Potential: AI is spearheading future technological advancements, positioning companies at the forefront of AI innovation for substantial growth.
2. Versatility: AI’s applications span across healthcare, finance, retail, and manufacturing, offering diverse investment opportunities.
3. Supportive Policies: The Indian government’s push towards AI research and development supports companies within this sector.

Strategic Research and Analysis

Thorough research is the cornerstone of successful stock investing. When eyeing AI stocks in India, it’s critical to evaluate companies’ financial health, market standing, and growth prospects. Scrutinise their revenue models, profit margins, and AI implementation effectiveness.

Staying updated with financial news, company reports, and analytical tools can provide insights into the latest trends in the AI sector. This information is essential for making well-informed investment decisions and identifying high-potential stocks.

The Power of Diversification

Diversification is a key strategy to mitigate risks in stock investments. By spreading your investments across various sectors and asset classes, you shield your portfolio from the underperformance of any single investment. While AI stocks hold promise, balancing them with investments in sectors like healthcare, finance, and consumer goods can stabilise your portfolio.

Diversification ensures resilience against market volatility and economic downturns. It enables you to harness growth opportunities across different sectors while safeguarding against sector-specific risks.

Staying Informed and Flexible

The dynamic nature of the stock market necessitates staying informed about market trends, economic indicators, and company performance. Regular portfolio reviews and adapting to market changes can optimise your investment strategy.

Subscribing to financial news, following market analysts, and utilising investment apps can provide real-time updates and insights. This knowledge can guide you in making timely adjustments to your portfolio to maximise returns.

Professional Guidance: A Valuable Resource

While self-directed investing can be rewarding, professional advice can enhance your strategy. Financial advisors and market experts offer insights and recommendations based on their extensive experience and knowledge. They can help navigate complex decisions and tailor your portfolio to meet your financial goals.

Professional guidance is particularly beneficial when exploring burgeoning sectors like artificial intelligence. Advisors can pinpoint promising AI stocks, considering market potential, competitive advantages, and technological advancements.

Long-Term Perspective: The Key to Success

Adopting a long-term perspective is crucial for stock market mastery. While short-term market fluctuations are unpredictable, a long-term approach helps you weather volatility and benefit from overall market growth. Investing in AI stocks with a long-term view allows you to capitalise on sustained growth in the AI sector.

Patience and discipline are essential for long-term investing. Avoid impulsive decisions based on short-term market movements and focus on the intrinsic value of your investments. This strategy can yield significant returns over time.

Maximising Investment Potential

Regular Monitoring

Consistent portfolio monitoring is vital for investment success. Track your investments’ performance and stay updated on market changes that could impact your holdings. Portfolio management tools can assist in keeping a close watch on your investments and making necessary adjustments.

Rebalancing

Rebalancing your portfolio involves adjusting your asset allocation to maintain your desired risk and return levels. As asset values fluctuate, regular rebalancing ensures you stay aligned with your investment goals.

Leveraging Technology

Utilising technology can significantly enhance your stock market success. Many online platforms offer real-time market data, investment research, and portfolio management services. These tools can help you make informed decisions, track your investments, and optimise your trading strategies.

Continuous Education

The stock market is constantly evolving. Staying educated about new trends, strategies, and market conditions is crucial. Engaging in webinars, reading financial news, and taking investment courses can help you stay informed and make better decisions.

Conclusion

Stock market investing requires a strategic approach, informed decisions, and continuous learning. By opening a free Demat account, you can seamlessly manage your investments and participate in the stock market. Exploring opportunities in AI stocks offers promising growth potential as AI technology continues to transform industries.

Conducting thorough research, diversifying your portfolio, staying informed, and seeking professional advice are key strategies for smart investments. Adopting a long-term perspective and maintaining discipline can help you navigate the stock market successfully and achieve your financial goals.

Regularly monitoring and rebalancing your portfolio, leveraging technology, and continuous learning are essential practices for maximising your returns. Remember, stock market investing is not a get-rich-quick scheme. It requires patience, diligence, and ongoing education. By following these principles and staying committed to your goals, you can unlock the potential for financial growth and achieve stock market mastery.

Remember the old swipe devices at petrol stations and grocery stores? Did you hear the unique “swoosh” sound when your card was read? This is the magnetic stripe technology in action. For decades, this simple strip has been our reliable friend for storing information ranging from credit card numbers to access codes. However, as technology advances at a rapid pace, the magnetic stripe may become obsolete.

The Rise of Smarter Cards

As technology advances, magnetic stripes are being replaced by newer, more secure technologies. Let’s take a deeper look at these developments.

• Chip Cards: EMV (Europay, MasterCard, and Visa) cards are a popular alternative to magnetic stripes. These cards include embedded microchips that create unique codes for each transaction. This technique dramatically improves security by making it impossible for fraudsters to copy or steal data. Unlike magnetic stripes, which contain static data, chip cards generate a unique transaction code each time they are used, significantly lowering the danger of card skimming and forgery.
• Contactless payment: Contactless payment technologies, including RFID and NFC, have transformed the way we pay. Transactions can be done almost instantly with a single tap of your card or smartphone. This technology not only speeds up the payment procedure, but it also reduces physical touch, which has been increasingly crucial in recent years due to health concerns. Contactless payments are also more convenient for consumers, as they eliminate the need to search for wallets or input PINs for modest purchases.
• Mobile wallets: Mobile wallets, such as Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay, offer increased convenience and security for payments. These mobile wallets securely store card information on your device and use encryption and biometric verification (such as fingerprint or face recognition) to verify purchases. Mobile wallets can handle contactless payments and can store loyalty cards, tickets, and other items, providing a one-stop solution for a variety of payment requirements.

Why the Shift?

Several main elements contribute to magnetic stripes’ decline:

• Security Concerns: Magnetic stripes are less secure than modern technologies. They store unencrypted data that can be easily accessed by hostile equipment and used to generate counterfeit cards. As a result, fraudsters have targeted magnetic stripe technology. Chip cards and contactless payments, on the other hand, provide more advanced security features such as encryption and tokenization to help protect critical information.
• Consumer Demand for Convenience: Convenience is a top priority for modern consumers when it comes to payment methods. Contactless payments and mobile wallets match these expectations by enabling faster and more efficient transaction processes. The ease of tapping a card or smartphone rather than swiping or inserting a card appeals to a tech-savvy demographic that values efficiency and quickness.
• Environmental Considerations: The shift away from magnetic stripes indicates increased environmental concern. Magnetic stripe cards and tickets are frequently constructed from elements that are detrimental to the environment. Newer technologies, such as reusable contactless cards and digital tickets, help to eliminate the need for physical materials while also being more environmentally friendly.

The Future of Payment Technology

While magnetic stripes may not disappear completely overnight, their importance in the payment landscape is obviously dwindling. The switch to chip cards, contactless payments, and digital wallets represents a significant advancement in payment technology. These innovative solutions provide more security, convenience, and reduced environmental effect.

As technology advances, we should expect further innovations that will revolutionize the way we handle payments. The future of payment systems promises to be even more safe and efficient, with biometric authentication and blockchain-based transactions.

“Through COPYTRADE, we want to foster the courage of potential traders to trade without worry by making expert strategies accessible to everyone,” said Teng, APAC Regional Officer of Bold Prime. “Whether you’re starting out or scaling up, COPYTRADE is designed to enhance your trading capabilities and help you achieve your financial ambitions.”

COPYTRADE aims to be the gateway to trading success. Here’s what makes COPYTRADE stand out:

• Real-Time Strategy Replication: Instantly mirror the moves of seasoned traders with proven track records.
• Flexible Risk Management: Customize settings to match your trading style and risk tolerance.
• Diverse Market Access: Trade a vast array of assets, including forex, stocks, and cryptocurrencies, all from a single platform.

COPYTRADE addresses some of the most persistent challenges faced by traders:

• Overcoming Knowledge Gaps: No need to be a trading guru; COPYTRADE lets you leverage the expertise of top market players.
• Managing Market Volatility: With advanced risk management tools, stay in control, no matter the market conditions.
• Time Constraints: Maximize your trading potential without being glued to your screen, thanks to automated trade replication.

COPYTRADE is crafted to meet the goals of traders across the globe:

• Profit Growth: Amplify your earning potential by copying the strategies of successful traders.
• Portfolio Diversification: Access different markets and diversify your trading techniques effortlessly.
• Skill Enhancement: Learn from the elite and refine your trading approach with every trade.

Through COPYTRADE, Bold Prime envisions a world where every person has the tools to achieve their financial goals. Bold Prime’s commitment is to provide a platform that not only simplifies trading but also enriches trading experience, helping you grow and succeed in the global market.

We invite all traders and brokers to experience the power of COPYTRADE. Sign up today and transform your trading journey into one of profit, learning, and success. Your path to achieve a financial goal begins with signing up with Bold Prime’s COPYTRADE.

For further information, please contact: support@boldprime.com

About Bold Prime

Bold Prime is a leading broker platform committed to delivering innovative and reliable trading solutions.

With a focus on pioneering technologies and user-centric services, Bold Prime continues to redefine

what traders can expect, empowering them to achieve their trading goals.

The financial world is transforming at an unprecedented rate. Previously controlled by traditional banks, this industry is currently undergoing fierce battle from two unexpected competitors: credit unions and tech behemoths. Both are striving for consumer loyalty, but who will win over the hearts and wallets of customers?

The Rise of Credit Unions: The Modern Davids

Credit unions, long seen as the quiet achievers of the financial world, are coming into the spotlight. They have typically functioned on a cooperative basis, based on the principle of mutual aid, with a focus on member benefits rather than profit margins. This approach has resulted in tremendous consumer loyalty throughout the years.

Credit unions are already leveraging new technologies to expand their offerings. They are not only focussing on their conventional strengths, but also embracing digital innovation. Credit unions are demonstrating their ability to compete in the digital age by offering advanced mobile banking, powerful online account management, and AI-driven financial advising.

What distinguishes credit unions is their strong community ties. They’re frequently involved in local economies, helping small businesses and investing in community projects. This localized approach appeals to consumers who value institutions that mirror their particular ideals.

Big tech: The financial giants enter the arena.

In the opposite direction, large technology businesses are transforming the financial sector. Apple, Google, and Amazon have introduced digital payment options such as Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Amazon Pay, which have transformed the way we conduct purchases. Its advent into finance is notable for its immense resources, cutting-edge technology, and large customer bases.

These tech behemoths aren’t stopping with payment solutions. They are also expanding into loan and investment services, leveraging their data edge to provide highly personalized financial products. They can provide targeted loan offers and investment advice to individuals based on their spending patterns.

However, large tech faces challenges, especially in terms of trust. Concerns regarding data privacy and security remain, and their absence of physical presence makes it difficult to establish human ties with clients.

The Battleground: Customer Experience

Customer experience will determine who wins this financial duel. Both credit unions and big tech strive to provide superior, personalized, and value-driven services.

Credit unions already thrive at trust and personalized service, knowing their members on an individual basis and providing tailored financial advice. To remain relevant, they must continue to innovate digitally while meeting the changing needs of today’s consumers.

Big tech’s advantage stems from its advanced technology and broad service network. To close the gap created by its impersonal character, it must prioritize trust-building and demonstrating a true commitment to consumer well-being.

A Hybrid Future: The Best of Both Worlds?

The future of finance may not be an either/or situation. A hybrid paradigm could emerge in which credit unions and big tech work together to use their capabilities. Credit unions might use big tech’s technological expertise while maintaining their member-centric approach. Partnerships could result in breakthrough digital banking systems or AI-powered financial solutions.

In contrast, huge internet companies might invest in or purchase credit unions to gain access to their customer base and financial services expertise. Such actions could boost trust and provide a physical touchpoint to supplement their digital-first tactics.

The Real Winner: The Consumer

As the war between credit unions and big tech continues, the consumer will emerge victorious. Increased competition results in a wider selection of financial products, lower rates, and better client experiences.

Consumers should take advantage of the current competitive environment by researching and comparing possibilities. Whether you choose a community-focused credit union or a tech-driven behemoth, the goal is to find a financial partner who understands your needs and values, allowing you to reach your financial goals more easily and with more satisfaction.

Imagine you had a basket full of different fruits. While you can’t consume the entire basket at once, you can sample a small portion of each fruit. An Exchange-Traded Fund (ETF) operates similarly, except instead of fruits, it holds a portfolio of securities such as equities, bonds, or commodities. Investing in an ETF gives you access to a diverse portfolio in a single transaction, making it a handy and efficient investment alternative.

What is an ETF?

An ETF is a sort of investment vehicle that trades on stock markets, similar to individual equities. It maintains a group of assets, such as stocks, bonds, or commodities, and allows you to invest in them as a single security. A stock ETF, for example, may own shares in hundreds of different businesses, whereas a bond ETF may hold a variety of government or corporate bonds. This implies that when you buy shares of an ETF, you are effectively purchasing a small percentage of each fund’s assets. This diversification helps to mitigate the risks associated with investing in a single asset.

How ETFs work

ETFs are exchanged on stock exchanges, and their prices fluctuate during the trading day depending on the value of the assets they own. When you buy an ETF, you are effectively purchasing a small share of each asset in the fund. This design enables investors to gain access to a diverse range of assets without having to purchase each one separately.

Types of ETFs

There are several types of ETFs that appeal to different investment objectives. Index ETFs, for example, track specific market indices such as the S&P 500, providing broad market exposure at minimal fees. Thematic ETFs specialize in specific areas or trends, such as technology or renewable energy. Bond ETFs offer exposure to fixed-income markets, whereas commodities ETFs follow the values of items like gold or oil.

Why ETFs are Attractive

ETFs provide various benefits that appeal to investors. They offer diversification by spreading your investment across a variety of assets, so lowering risk. ETFs are typically less expensive than mutual funds due to lower cost ratios. They also provide liquidity, meaning you can buy and sell them throughout the trading day. Furthermore, many ETFs are tax-efficient, and their transparency enables you to see exactly what assets you have.

Investing in ETF

To begin investing in ETFs, select a broking business that allows ETF trading, conduct research to identify ETFs that meet your investment objectives, and open a broking account. Once your account is funded, you can buy ETFs using your broker’s interface. Regularly monitoring your ETF investments and rebalancing your portfolio as appropriate will help you stay on track towards your financial goals.

Building Your ETF Portfolio

Establish specific investment goals, such as saving for retirement or paying education, and analyze your risk tolerance to ensure that your ETF selections are appropriate for your comfort level. Diversify your assets by including a variety of ETFs to spread risk, and modify your portfolio on a regular basis to preserve the right proportion. Keep an eye on costs, such as expense ratios and trading fees, to maximize the efficiency of your investments.

ETFs versus Stocks

While both ETFs and individual stocks are traded on stock exchanges, they serve distinct functions. ETFs provide built-in diversification by holding a diverse range of assets, lowering risk when compared to individual equities, which represent ownership in a single company, exposing you to more risk if that company performs poorly. ETFs, like stocks, can be purchased and sold during the day, but because they are diversified, they normally have lower volatility and risk, whereas individual equities may have larger price swings. Investing in ETFs allows for larger market or sector exposure with a single purchase, making diversification easier, whereas purchasing individual equities necessitates more in-depth study and monitoring of certain companies.

ETFs versus Mutual Funds

While both ETFs and mutual funds provide diversification, they differ in a few respects. ETFs trade on stock exchanges and are priced throughout the day, whereas mutual funds are valued only once at the end of the trading session. ETFs typically have lower expense ratios and more tax advantages than mutual funds.

Conclusion

ETFs are a powerful and flexible investing tool that can help you improve your personal finance strategy. ETFs provide a practical alternative for establishing and managing your assets by allowing you to access a diverse portfolio at reduced costs and with greater transparency. Whether you’re new to investing or wanting to improve your current portfolio, ETFs can help you achieve your financial objectives.

Disclaimer

Investing in ETFs entails risks, including the potential loss of investment. Past performance does not predict future results, and returns are not guaranteed. Before making any investing decisions, you should perform your own research or get advice from a financial professional. Before making an investment, always examine your personal financial status, goals, and risk tolerance.

DBS Bank, Singapore’s largest bank by assets, has started a trial program for its “DBS Treasury Tokens” in collaboration with Ant International, the global arm of Alibaba’s fintech affiliate Ant Group. This effort attempts to improve Treasury and Liquidity Management.

According to a statement released by The Block, the pilot will use DBS’s permissioned blockchain to improve Ant International’s multi-currency treasury and liquidity management across multiple markets. The goal is to greatly accelerate the settlement of intra-group transactions, lowering processing times from “potentially days to seconds.” This improvement is intended to increase intra-group liquidity and working capital, giving company treasurers greater visibility, predictability, and control over their overall financial situation.

Lim Soon Chong, DBS Bank’s group head of global transaction services, stated that this new pilot is opportune given the changing treasury needs caused by the expansion of e-commerce and on-demand businesses that operate around the clock. He added, “DBS’ permissioned blockchain also forms the building block for new efficiencies and capabilities in traditional banking services, such as programmable, fractionalized, and atomic value transfer.”

Kelvin Li, head of platform tech at Ant International, stated that their collaboration has already resulted in successful use cases such as fast tax refunds and cross-border payments for small and medium-sized businesses via the Whale platform.

The DBS Treasury Tokens pilot builds on the bank’s participation in Project Orchid and Project Guardian, which were both spearheaded by the Monetary Authority of Singapore to investigate the potential benefits of tokenization.

The excitement of traveling the open road may rapidly turn into a nightmare with a single unexpected catastrophe. Consider this: a flat tyre in the middle of nowhere, an unexpected car breakdown or a misplaced key on a dark, isolated road. Here’s where roadside assistance insurance really shines.

It’s more than just a policy; it’s your safety net, providing both peace of mind and speedy solutions to unforeseen roadside issues.

What is Roadside Assistance Insurance?

Roadside assistance insurance is an additional layer of coverage that supplements your primary motor insurance policy. It is there to assist you when your vehicle experiences problems on the road, whether it be a flat tyre or a total breakdown.

Key Features and Benefits

• 24/7 Emergency Help: This helpline is always available and ready to assist you at any time, day or night.
• Towing Services: If your vehicle cannot be repaired where you are, it will be hauled to a nearby repair facility.
• Flat Tire Assistance: A specialist will come out and repair or replace your flat tire.
• Jumpstart Service: If your battery dies, a specialist will jumpstart it.
• Lockout Assistance: Have you locked your keys in the car? A locksmith will arrive to your assistance.
• Fuel Delivery: Have you run out of petrol? A limited quantity of fuel will be provided to you.
• Additional Services: Some policies may provide additional benefits such as tyre changes, battery replacements, or minor repairs.

How It Works

In an emergency, simply dial the roadside assistance hotline. The operator will request information about your location, the problem, and your policy. They will then send the appropriate assistance your way.

A service technician will arrive, examine the situation, and either fix the problem on-site or tow your vehicle to a repair facility, if necessary.

The Evolution of Roadside Assistance

Roadside assistance has progressed much beyond its early stages. Today’s services are significantly more advanced.

• GPS Tracking: Providers employ GPS to properly locate your location, which speeds up reaction time.
• Mobile Apps: Many organizations now offer apps for requesting assistance, tracking service status, and receiving updates.
• Expanded Coverage: Beyond the basics, some plans now include benefits such as rental car reimbursement and lodging.

Why Does Roadside Assistance Matter?

Roadside help may appear to be an unnecessary investment, yet it can be a lifesaver in unexpected situations. Here’s what makes it worthwhile:

• Peace of Mind: Knowing that support is only a phone call away can significantly lessen stress.
• Time-saving: It saves you time and effort by offering immediate assistance.
• Cost-effective: It is generally less expensive than paying for towing, repairs, and rental automobiles out of pocket.
• Safety: In dangerous situations, such as a breakdown on the highway, roadside help safeguards your safety.

Choosing the Right Plan

With so many options, choosing the correct roadside assistance coverage can be difficult. Consider the following factors:

• Coverage Area: Make sure the plan includes the places where you travel the most.
• Services Offered: Examine the services offered and select the package that best suits your requirements.
• Towing Limits: Determine the maximum distance for towing.
• Cost: Compare premiums to find the greatest bargain.
• Customer Reviews: Read reviews to determine the quality of service.

Roadside Assistance and The Future of Mobility

As the car industry evolves, so does roadside help. What’s on the horizon?

• Electric Vehicle Services: As more electric vehicles hit the road, specialized services are emerging.
• Connected Automobiles: Future improvements may enable automobiles to recognise problems and seek assistance on their own.
• Autonomous Vehicles: Self-driving automobiles, which are still in development, have the potential to alter roadside assistance by automatically diagnosing and addressing problems.

Conclusion

Roadside assistance insurance isn’t just an extra cost; it’s an essential component of modern driving. It provides a safety net for unexpected breakdowns, ensuring you are never stranded. Understanding different plans and advantages allows you to make an informed decision and enjoy the confidence of knowing aid is always available.

Parents may now provide their 7- to 12-year-old children with a wearable payment gadget thanks to a collaboration between Google Wallet and GoHenry by Acorns.

According to a press statement issued on Wednesday (August 7), the two organizations have partnered to provide a tool to help parents teach their children about money management, ensuring they spend securely and properly.

In this collaboration, GoHenry by Acorns, a debit card and financial education program for children ages 6 to 18, will be incorporated into Google Wallet and featured on the Fitbit Ace LTE wearable, which is specifically developed for children aged 7 to 12. GoHenry will function as a card issuer in the device’s wallet.

The GoHenry by Acorns app enables parents to set up automatic allowances, make fast payments, and establish spending limitations for their children. According to the announcement, it also offers instructional content such as courses, quizzes, and films that educate important financial concepts.

“GoHenry empowers kids growing up in a digital world to learn about and use money in a safe environment,” said Acorns CEO Noah Kerner. “Our collaboration with Google Wallet brings this to life on a wearable payment device, embodying our mission to make every kid smart with money and providing parents with more tools to nurture healthy habits in their kids.”

Ben Greenwood, Fitbit Ace LTE product lead, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “We’re excited to collaborate with GoHenry to bring tap-to-pay capabilities to the Fitbit Ace LTE, giving parents a valuable tool to instill responsible spending habits and help kids gain confidence while they learn important money skills.”

Acorns acquired GoHenry in April 2023, with Kerner noting at the time that the acquisition would “accelerate our roadmap and deliver financial wellness to the whole family through all of life’s stages.”

At the time, the combined companies had approximately 6 million users.

Google also announced a relationship with Greenlight, a FinTech focussing on financial education, this week. This collaboration will connect Greenlight’s debit card to Google’s Fitbit Ace LTE, teaching children to “spend wisely” through tap-to-pay on their smartwatches, providing them with safe and simple access to funds without the need for a phone or physical card.