Investing can be a daunting task for anyone, especially for those who are new to the game. With a plethora of options available, it can be challenging to know where to start and what investment vehicles to choose.
One option that has gained popularity in recent years is listed investment companies (LICs). In this beginner’s guide, we’ll take a closer look at what LICs are and how they can be a valuable addition to your investment portfolio.
What are LICs?
LICs are publicly traded companies that invest in a diversified portfolio of assets, such as stocks, bonds, and real estate. They are similar to mutual funds, but instead of investing in the fund directly, you buy shares of the company that owns the assets.
This allows you to gain exposure to a variety of investments through a single stock, making it an easy and convenient option for those who want a simple and diversified investment portfolio.
Benefits of Investing in LICs
Diversification: As mentioned earlier, LICs offer a diversified portfolio of assets, which helps to spread risk and minimize the impact of any single investment.
Professional Management: LICs are managed by professional fund managers who have the expertise and experience to select and manage investments on your behalf.
Liquidity: LICs are listed on stock exchanges, making it easy to buy and sell shares, and providing you with the flexibility to make changes to your portfolio as needed.
Potential for Higher Returns: By investing in a diversified portfolio of assets, LICs have the potential to deliver higher returns than investing in individual stocks.
Lower Costs: Compared to other investment vehicles, LICs often have lower fees and expenses, which can result in higher returns for investors.
Risks of Investing in LICs
Market Risk: As with any investment, LICs are subject to market risk, which means that the value of your investment can go up or down depending on market conditions.
Credit Risk: LICs may invest in bonds, which are subject to credit risk. This means that if the issuer of the bond defaults on their debt, the value of your investment may decrease.
Management Risk: The success of a LIC depends on the ability of the fund manager to make good investment decisions. If the fund manager fails to perform, the value of your investment may be negatively impacted.
How to Invest in LICs
Research: Before investing in a LIC, it’s important to research the company and its portfolio of assets to ensure that it aligns with your investment goals and risk tolerance.
Consider the Fund Manager’s Track Record: Look at the fund manager’s track record to see how they have performed in the past and whether they have a history of delivering good returns.
Diversify Your Portfolio: As with any investment, it’s important to diversify your portfolio to minimize risk. Consider investing in multiple LICs to achieve a well-rounded and diversified investment portfolio.
Monitor Your Investments: Regularly monitor your investments and make changes as needed to ensure that your portfolio remains aligned with your investment goals.
In conclusion, LICs can be a valuable addition to your investment portfolio, offering the benefits of diversification, professional management, liquidity, and the potential for higher returns. However, it’s important to understand the risks involved and to do your research before investing. By following these tips, you can ensure that you make informed investment decisions and achieve your financial goals.
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Bankruptcy means a test is done to determine who can file for chapter 7 bankruptcy. The means test considers everything while determining your current position to pay your debt to the creditors. It goes through your income, expenditure, assets, and family members.
The means test was designed to reduce the number of debtors willing to get their debts erased. It has been seen that most of the debtors who have applied for the means test have passed.
Those people who cannot qualify for chapter 7 or want to keep their assets to themselves can apply for chapter 13 bankruptcy.
How Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Works?
Applying for chapter 7 can be an expensive and lengthy process. The means test helps the government clarify who is eligible for chapter 7. The Means Test has two parts. Both parts are designed to see through your income and assets and determine the current financial standing.
You have to apply for the Means Test only for the primary consumer debts like medical debt or credit card debts. You do not have to apply for this test if your debt is related to business loans.
First Part
The part of the Means Test determines whether your house income is below the state's median income. The means test starts gathering information about your income, expenses, and assets. These data are mostly collected from the past six months. However, there have been cases where this six months time duration can be changed.
After all the reports, if it is being found out that your income is below the median income, you will qualify the Means Test. In a report made by the US government in 2013, more than 12% of the debtors were able to qualify the Means test in the first stage.
Second Part
The second part consists of going through all your expenses. These expenses consist of everything you pay for, starting from paying your utility bills, grocery bills to the travel expenses and education expenses. Out of all the expenses, only the allowable expenses are considered to be used by you. Other expenses that are not necessary are used to pay off your debts.
While you document the list of expenses, be thorough about the things you add to the list. Remember, those expenses will decide whether your petition will be accepted or not.
Allowable expenses are based on the local and national standards used by the IRS. The national list covers items like food and clothing, and local items cover housing expenses and car payments. You need to work carefully to ensure that all your expenses are thoroughly documented.
What's Next After You Qualify for the Means Test?
Passing the means test means you have the green light to apply a petition for chapter 7 bankruptcy. Once your petition is accepted, most of the unsecured debts will be forgiven. That does not mean that this will be the best route for you.
There are also chapter 13 bankruptcy that might give more advantage over chapter 7 in many cases. Chapter 13 will help you put a hold on all your debts, mortgages, overdue loans, and bank taxes.
What Will Happen After You Fail The Test?
Once you fail the Means Test, there are no more appeals for a certain period. You can apply for the chapter, or you can wait for the cooldown time to apply again for the means test.
We have already mentioned that the Means Test goes through all your financial income and expenditure in the last six months. That means, after a failed attempt at the Means Test, you can apply again after six months.
However, if you do not intend to apply for the Means Test again in the future, you will be restricted to chapter 13 and will have to pay off your debt based on the chapter 13 provision.
The Bottom Line
Is it really hard to apply for a loan after bankruptcy? Well, you can say more than hard; it is more complex. You first need to qualify the Means Test, and then only you can apply for chapter 7. It is better to have an attorney while you are managing legal documentation.
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Whenever I go ahead with traditional banking, it often feels disconnected from social progress.
Recently, I have been trying to switch from such traditional platforms to more efficient digital ones.
One of my friends suggested a platform called Betterthisworld Money.
Now, of course, I will not use any platform for money before I review it!
So, when I hopped onto the internet, I saw that this platform has emerged to redefine the relationship between capital and conscience.
Additionally, I saw that this movement isn't just about saving or investing. Rather, it is about Impact Investing.
What is that? If I have to explain this in simple terms, I would say that it is the practice of putting your money into a particular sort of project.
These will generate measurable social or environmental benefits. In addition, I will also get a financial return.
As we navigate the economic landscape of 2026, I suggest that you understand how to align your wallet with your values.
I can assure you that it is no longer a niche hobby. Rather, it is a strategic necessity for the modern investor.
In this guide, I am going to break down the core philosophy of Betterthisworld Money.
Additionally, I will also talk about the advantages of ethical banking.
Finally, I would mention the critical safety measures that you will need. This will help you to protect your assets in the impact space.
What Is Betterthisworld Money?
Betterthisworld Money is a financial philosophy and ecosystem. It is centered on Conscious Capitalism.
Additionally, I would say that the platform acts as a bridge between retail investors and global initiatives. These focus on:
Climate Change
Educational Inequality
Sustainable Infrastructure
Also, I would like to add that this platform doesn’t just let your deposits sit in a traditional bank.
There, they might be used to fund fossil fuel expansion. In fact, it can also be used for predatory lending.
Rather, Betterthisworld Money advocates for transparency.
Also, it encourages the use of Green Bonds and Social Impact Notes. In fact, it also promotes Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs).
What Are The Core Pillars Of Betterthisworld Money?
To understand how this ecosystem functions, it is helpful to look at its three primary drivers:
1. Transparency
Every dollar is tracked. Investors receive an Impact Report that shows exactly how their capital contributed to tangible outcomes, such as gallons of water saved or the number of low-income housing units built.
2. Sustainability
The focus is on long-term growth.
This approach avoids pump-and-dump schemes, favoring companies with high ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) scores.
3. Accessibility
Historically, impact investing was reserved for high-net-worth individuals. Modern platforms have lowered the barrier to entry, allowing users to start with as little as $10.
What Are The Advantages Of Switching To Betterthisworld Money?
Why should I invest through BetterThisWorld Money? How will it benefit me? This was one of the first questions I asked.
Well, it turns out that this lens offers unique benefits. Guess what? It is way better than the traditional portfolios:
1. Resilience Against Market Volatility
If you own or work in companies with high ESG ratings, you would know that they tend to be more resilient during economic downturns.
This is because these firms focus on long-term sustainability. Additionally, they also prioritize ethical governance.
Therefore, they are less prone to scandals. Also, they can prevent regulatory fines that plague less ethical competitors.
2. Personal Fulfillment
There is a psychological advantage to knowing your wealth isn't coming at the expense of others.
Additionally, this alignment of values leads to Financial Wellness.
Therefore, it reduces the stress and guilt often associated with complex financial markets.
3. Competitive Returns
A common myth is that doing good means earning less.
However, I was looking at the data from 2025 and 2026. Guess what I saw?
It shows that impact funds frequently match or outperform the S&P 500.
I think one of the biggest reasons behind this is that the global regulations are shifting toward rewarding green energy.
Also, the shift towards ethical labor practices is another prominent reason.
What Are Some Common Safety Concerns With Betterthisworld Money?
While the intentions behind Betterthisworld Money are noble, the Impact Space is not immune to risks. You must be vigilant to protect your principal.
1. Beware Of Greenwashing
Greenwashing occurs when a company or fund spends more time and money on marketing themselves as environmentally friendly.
But guess what? They barely do anything to actually minimize their environmental impact.
Therefore, I would suggest that you always look for third-party certifications like B Corp status.
Additionally, you must also pay importance to the GIIN (Global Impact Investing Network) verification.
This is an important step before you commit large sums of money.
2. Liquidity Risks
Many impact investments, particularly those in community development or green infrastructure, are long-term plays.
Therefore, this means your money might be locked in for 3 to 5 years.
So, I would strongly recommend that you ensure you have an emergency fund in a liquid high-yield savings account.
When to do this? Of course, before you move your core capital into less liquid impact notes.
3. Platform Security
As these platforms gain popularity, they become targets of cyberattacks.
So, I must assert that you need to ensure any app you use for Betterthisworld Money utilizes AES-256 encryption.
Additionally, I also checked if it offers SIPC or FDIC insurance (or the equivalent in your region) for my cash balances.
4. Higher Expense Ratios
Because impact funds require more research and active auditing to ensure compliance with ethical standards, they sometimes carry slightly higher management fees than passive index funds.
5. Narrower Diversification
If you only invest in green companies, your portfolio might become over-concentrated in the tech and energy sectors.
It is vital to maintain a balanced asset allocation across different industries.
Who Are The Ideal Users Of Betterthisworld Money Com?
I am listing a few categories of people who will genuinely benefit from this platform. Want to know if you are one of them? Read on!
Firstly, if you are a gig worker or a freelancer, I can assure you that this is the platform you have been looking for.
Now, you can manage multiple streams of unicorn without missing a payment.
Secondly, you will really love this platform if you are a young professional.
This will help you maximize your savings. Additionally, you will learn a lot about budgeting.
Additionally, if you are a small business owner or any sort of entrepreneur like me, you can use this to make more informed decisions.
Also, this will help you to oversee cash flow.
Finally, you will benefit from this if you are an investor or a general saver.
This will help you explore low-risk investment scopes. Also, you will be able to optimize your spending.
Is Betterthisworld Money A Sound Strategy For 2026?
Betterthisworld Money embodies a transformative vision for the future of finance.
As Generation Z and Millennials increasingly accumulate and control a significant portion of global wealth, there is a profound shift in expectations around ethical transparency and sustainability.
This generational demand is compelling the entire banking industry to reassess its practices and prioritize transparency, accountability, and responsible investment.
By embracing this progressive approach today, you are not just contributing to positive environmental change.
Rather, you are strategically positioning yourself at the forefront of what is poised to be the next major economic transformation.
Engaging with Betterthisworld Money means being part of a movement that not only aligns financial growth with ethical values but also actively fosters a more sustainable and equitable future for all.
Your participation can influence broader trends and practices in finance, making a lasting impact on the industry and the world.
As an independent event planner, you have the freedom to set your own schedule and take on exciting projects that you’re passionate about.
However, being your own boss also comes with certain responsibilities, including managing your taxes. Freelancers often face challenges in maximizing their tax savings and properly filing their taxes due to their unique work situation.
In this article, we’ll explore the tax implications of being an independent event planner and provide helpful information to ensure that you’re on top of your tax obligations.
1099 Income and Taxes
As an independent event planner, you may receive 1099 income, which refers to income received from a client or business that is not your employer. When you receive 1099 income, you’ll need to pay both the employer and employee portion of Social Security and Medicare taxes. This is known as self-employment tax.
The self-employment tax rate is currently 15.3%, but only applies to the first $132,900 of your net earnings. Once you reach this threshold, the rate drops to 2.9%. It’s worth noting that the self-employment tax rate applies in addition to your regular income tax rate. This means that you’ll need to factor in both taxes when calculating your overall tax liability and use a quarterly tax calculator.
To make things a bit easier, you can use a 1040 ES calculator to estimate how much you’ll need to pay in taxes for the year and to determine how much money you should set aside throughout the year to cover your tax bill. The 1040 ES calculator takes into account your 1099 income, self-employment tax, and any other income you may have throughout the year.
Claiming Deductions and Maximizing Tax Savings
One of the benefits of being self-employed is the ability to claim deductions that can help reduce your taxable income and lower your overall tax bill. However, freelancers often struggle with identifying which deductions they're eligible for and how to properly claim them on their tax returns.
As independent event planners, you may be eligible to deduct expenses such as office supplies, equipment, software and subscriptions, travel expenses, and marketing expenses. However, it's crucial to save records of what you spend in order to claim them properly, and in case you get an IRS audit.
You can also consider setting up a retirement account, such as a Solo 401(k) or a SEP IRA, which can help reduce your taxable income while ensuring that you're saving for your future.
Managing these different accounts and write-offs is often a lot of work for one person. Most people find that their financial situation gets more complex as their business grows. Professional owner tax consulting helps you stay organized throughout the year. This type of support makes it easier to spot savings you might miss on your own. It also helps you prepare for changes in tax laws that affect small companies. Having a clear plan in place keeps your focus on your clients instead of paperwork.
Tax Implications of Incorporating Your Business
Many independent event planners operate as sole proprietors, which means that they’re an individual who owns and operates a business. However, there are benefits to incorporating your business, such as limited liability protection and potential tax savings.
Additionally, corporations are eligible for more tax deductions than sole proprietors, including health and life insurance premiums, employee benefits, and certain business travel expenses.
Making your business incorporated can also help reduce your total tax liability. For example, if you’re earning a high income as a sole proprietor, you may be subject to the top income tax rate of 37%. However, if you incorporate your business and structure it as an S-corporation, you can pay yourself a salary and receive the rest of your income through distributions, which are taxed at a lower rate.
2023 Self-Employment Tax Calculator
Looking ahead to future tax years, it’s always a good idea to stay informed about changes to tax laws and regulations. The self-employment tax rate may change from year to year, and it’s important to stay on top of these changes in order to accurately estimate your overall tax liability.
The self-employment tax calculator 2023 can help you estimate how much you’ll owe in self-employment taxes for the year, based on the latest tax rates and regulations. By using this calculator, you can ensure that you’re setting aside enough money throughout the year to cover your tax bill and avoid any unpleasant surprises come tax time.
Conclusion
As an independent event planner, managing your taxes can be a bit daunting. However, by staying informed about your tax obligations, identifying available deductions, and incorporating your business if necessary, you can minimize your tax liability and maximize your tax savings. Utilizing tools such as the 1040 ES calculator and the self-employment tax calculator 2023 can also help streamline the tax planning process and ensure that you’re in compliance with the latest tax regulations.
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