DiversyFund 5 Steps to Protect Your Portfolio in a Difficult Environment

Published on: 22 April 2019 Last Updated on: 02 March 2020

It is easy to get excited when the stock market is up, but what happens when prices start to fall? For many investors, a falling stock market is a reason to panic, but selling out when prices are low can be counterproductive – and a sure way to destroy a carefully crafted portfolio.

If you are feeling a bit overwhelmed by the state of the market, you can ease your worries by diversifying your portfolio. Instead of panicking, you should utilize the five-step survival strategy Craig Cecilio, founder of DiversyFund, created as your guide.

1. Do a Gut Check:

A severe market downturn or prolonged bear market will test the mettle of even the most seasoned investor. Even if you think you have a high tolerance for risk, now is the time to do a gut check.

If you are feeling freaked out about the current downturn, your risk tolerance may not be as high as you think. Now is the time to reassess the situation and make any changes you feel are necessary. If you are working with a financial advisor, schedule a meeting to review your portfolio and assess your current level of risk.

2. Build Your Emergency Fund:

Having a significant portion of your assets in cash and fixed-income investments can cushion the fall when the stock market declines. When the stock market hits a rough patch, those emergency reserves become even more important, so take a good look at your portfolio and make sure you have sufficient savings.

Financial experts recommend that you have a minimum of three to six months’ worth of living expenses in an emergency fund, more if your job situation is uncertain or you are worried about the future. If you feel you are too heavily invested in stocks, pulling some cash off the table and adding it to your contingency fund might make sense.

3. Take Advantage of Rising Interest Rates:

The stock market often struggles when interest rates are on the rise, but those rising rates could be a golden opportunity. If you have an emergency fund and stash of contingency cash (and you should), take advantage of rising rates to boost your passive income.

If your emergency cash and contingency funds are sitting in a low-interest savings account, look around for other, higher yielding alternatives. Moving your funds to a money market or online bank could increase your earnings and help you get more for your money.

4. Chill Out:

Focusing on the day to day swings of the stock market is enough to drive anyone crazy, so take a step back and try to relax. Even if those daily dips seem frightening, thinking longer term and exploring alternative investments could have a calming influence. As they say, time in the market is better than timing the market.

5. Look for Buying Opportunities:

When planning investments, it is crucial to consider diversifying investments to mitigate overall risk. One way to diversify your portfolio is to consider real estate, specifically multifamily real estate. If you’re looking for less hassle and more security, a real estate investment trust (REIT) could be a good option to explore. REITs allow investors to diversify their portfolio without the difficulties of directly acquiring the property. REITs invest large amounts of money into residential multifamily homes, commercial buildings, healthcare facilities, and large-scale industrial buildings as well.

Investing in real estate is an excellent option for long-term investment. The typical real estate investor purchases a property and holds it for an expected increase in value or rents it out using the rent to bolster his or her income. Real estate that has been purchased through a retirement plan is also held for a longer period of time in order to realize a higher profit.

Market downturns can be scary, and nothing can completely eliminate fear. Even so, panicking will do you no good, and it could do you a lot of harm. Taking a step back, and taking the right steps, could protect your portfolio during the downturn and put you in a better position when things turn around.

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11 Ways to Save Money while Studying in Israel

Israel is a wonderful country to visit. Whether it is the beautiful Mediterranean coastline, the religious landmarks, and historical sites, or the people themselves, there is always something to check out in Israel. However, it is no secret that Israel is not a cheap place to visit. The country is quite expensive by any measure so travelers would be well-advised o save money wherever they can. Whether it is currency conversions, the price of food itself, or accommodations, Israel tends to empty your wallet. What follows are some tips for saving money during your time in the Holy Land. Hopefully, by utilizing these you will be able to extend your stay in Israel or come home with a little bit more money. 1. Buy a RavKav: Image Source: upload.wikimedia.org Instead of buying bus tickets from the driver, you’ll save money by purchasing a RavKav, which you can swipe on most forms of public transportation in Israel. You’ll save money on Egged buses and on the light rail in Jerusalem, plus you won’t have to dig for coins each time you get on the bus. 2. Don’t Negotiate with Taxi Drivers: Image Source: upload.wikimedia.org There’s no way to come out on top when bargaining with the notorious Israeli taxi drivers. Instead, insist to the driver that he turn on the meter, and let that dictate the price of your journey. 3. Work out your Communication needs before leaving: No matter what country you’re in, people will look to take advantage of travelers who failed to make all their necessary preparations back home. For this reason, it is imperative that you take care of your telecom needs before you leave for Israel. Renting a SIM card for Israel or domestic cell phone is a good way to go. 4. Supermarkets over Makolets: Image Source: commons.wikimedia.org The local makolet on your school’s street corner might be the most convenient place to shop, but everything will cost a lot more than at a larger supermarket. Do yourself a favor and avoid doing your heavy shopping there. 5. Street Food Instead of Restaurants: Image Source: upload.wikimedia.org With cheap hummus and shawarma widely available throughout the country, you’re never far from a tasty and inexpensive meal. Use this to your advantage and avoid eating out in expensive restaurants. 6. Improve your Hebrew: Image Source: upload.wikimedia.org It doesn’t matter if you’re dealing with the cellphone company, the bank, or your local pharmacy. It’s always more effective when you’re negotiating in Hebrew, and if you don’t speak the language well, try to bring someone along who does. 7. Avoid American Food Products: Image Source: upload.wikimedia.org Your favorite cereals and snacks at home are going to be extremely overpriced in Israeli stores, so for extra savings go with an Israeli brand. You’ll save money and get a better feel for what Israelis are eating! 8. Buy a Reusable Water Bottle: Image Source: upload.wikimedia.org Purchasing bottled water in Israel can add up, and there’s no reason to pay for it. Tap water in Israel is of the highest quality that can be found worldwide, so just fill up your bottle whenever you’re thirsty. 9. Buy from the Shuk: Image Source: upload.wikimedia.org Like other Middle Eastern countries, the best deals are to be found at the local marketplace. If you’re studying in Jerusalem, then a great place to do your shopping is in the Mahane Yehudah market, where all the local Israelis find the city’s best bargains. 10. Circumvent ATM Fees: Image Source: upload.wikimedia.org Most students studying abroad get access to their funds by withdrawing cash from Israeli ATMs. Don’t use ATMs that charge high withdrawal fees, so avoid using ones not connected to a recognized bank. 11. Work Part-Time: Image Source: upload.wikimedia.org There are plenty of opportunities in Israel for English speakers to work part-time. If you’re having trouble saving money, why not earn a few extra shekels on the side? Travelling to Israel is exciting for anyone. If you’re fortunate enough to have a trip planned for some time in the future you will want to plan things out so that you don’t end up spending any more money than you have to. Whether you’re going through the whole country or just visiting Tel Aviv or Jerusalem, these tips ought to help you keep a little more in your wallet so you can enjoy your trip longer. Safe travels! Read Also: Benefits Of Internship Programs 7 Wise Financial Choices That Will Help You Follow Your Budget

Does Bankruptcy Ruin Your Credit?

Most people understand that bankruptcy can help you discharge the debt if you're in a bad financial situation. They also understand that bankruptcy can hurt your credit score. But can bankruptcy ruin your credit entirely? The Importance of Talking With an Expert First, if you’re considering filing for bankruptcy protection, make sure you talk to a bankruptcy lawyer. A bankruptcy lawyer will have the knowledge and expertise necessary to help you determine whether filing is appropriate for you and which type of bankruptcy you should pursue. They'll also help you understand the core process of filing for bankruptcy and setting your expectations for timelines, costs, and consequences. Lawyers are an indispensable resource here, so don't neglect to hire one. Different Types of Bankruptcy You should also understand that there are different types of bankruptcy. Different types of bankruptcy manage debts in different fashions and have a different impact on your credit score. For example, Chapter 7 bankruptcies tend to stay on your credit report longer than Chapter 13 bankruptcies, due to the fact that Chapter 13 bankruptcies frequently allow consumers to pay back a portion of their debts. A chapter 13 case could benefit a person for numerous reasons. Typically, a person would file a chapter 13 case to save a house from a mortgage foreclosure action and a car from repossession, due to payment arrears. A person may also file for chapter 13 protection to pay back only a portion of unsecured debt because they do not meet the chapter 7 criteria. Chapter 13 requires a person to make monthly trustee payments for 36 to 60 months. A chapter 13 case is completed after all monthly plan payments have been paid in full. Chapter 7 bankruptcies allow an individual to eliminate all unsecured debt, such as credit card debt and personal loans. Therefore, a person who is only interested in eliminating unsecured debt would file a chapter 7 case, if one meets the criteria. The chapter 7 case takes about four months to complete after the filing. No payments are required in a chapter 7 case. The Impact of Bankruptcy on Your Credit A chapter 13 bankruptcy filing stays on a credit report for 7 years from the date of the filing. A chapter 7 bankruptcy case, stays on a credit report for 10 years from the bankruptcy case filing date. Typically, filing for bankruptcy has a negative impact on a credit score, although the filing may increase a person’s credit score, based on their financial circumstances. The most important criteria impacting the credit score are as follows: The shorter the credit history the less advantageous it; Missing payments reflect a derogatory mark; The amount of one’s revolving credit limit compared to the amount of the debt incurred. The optimum debt to credit limit ratio is a debt balance of 30% of someone’s credit limit. The additional debt incurred over 30%, the more the credit score is negatively affected. For example, a person that used $3k of their total $10k credit limit has used 30% of their total credit limit. However, if the same person charges a total of $6k of the $10k credit limit, the ratio is increased to 60%, which reduces the credit score. A person’s credit report lists their creditors and other facts regarding each creditor. This includes the status of payments; type of loan; length of the loan, and the loan balance. Typically, a credit report also reflects a bankruptcy filing, foreclosure action, repossessions, charge-offs, and debt settlements. The credit report also reflects a total score, indicating the general state of a person’s credit. A prospective lender must analyze a person’s financial circumstances to determine: if they will issue the loan; what type of loan will be issued; the loan amount; the loan interest rate; and, the length of the loan. Based on each creditor’s internal lending requirements, the determination of extending credit is based on a balancing act between the loan applicant’s credit report, income, expenses, the debt amount, debt payments, assets, and other information. Typically, a person considering filing for bankruptcy protection is experiencing difficulty paying their monthly credit card payments and/or mortgage or auto finance payments. Consequently, such a person usually has a low credit score. The lower the credit score at the time of the bankruptcy filing, the less the impact the bankruptcy filing has on a credit score. Conversely, a bankruptcy filing will have a substantial impact on a person with a high credit score. In general, a high credit score does not always guarantee that a person will obtain the loan they want with the best terms. A prospective debtor with an excellent credit score and substantial monthly credit card payments may experience difficulties, without filing for bankruptcy. What if a person with an excellent credit score has a very low income? Let’s assume that a person with a high credit score, with substantial monthly debt payments, eliminates all credit card debt, in addition to other types of debt in a chapter 7 case. Initially, the person’s credit score will sustain a substantial hit, resulting in difficulty obtaining any loan. However, within a reasonable time period, together with the proper credit repair, the person’s credit score will substantially increase. In the future, the person will apply for credit without their enormous monthly debt payment load. Now, let’s assume that a person with a low credit score and substantial monthly debt payments eliminates all credit card debt, in addition to other types of debt in a chapter 7 case. Initially, the person’s credit score may sustain a minimal hit. However, most likely this same person was experiencing great difficulty obtaining credit prior to the filing. If this person implements the proper credit restoration process, the person’s credit score will substantially increase, as well. Ultimately, within a short period, the bankruptcy filing will likely increase this person’s ability to obtain credit Typically a bankruptcy mark on a credit report has a negative impact on prospective creditors to review. Generally, within one year after the completion of a chapter 7 case, the debtor (the person that filed) will experience great difficulty obtaining a loan. Although obtaining a loan depends on the totality of the person’s financial circumstances, the rule of thumb for receiving automobile financing with a reasonable to low-interest rate is about one year after the completion of a chapter 7 case. The rule of thumb regarding the receipt of a reasonable to low mortgage rate is about two years after the completion of chapter 7. Based on a debtor’s financial circumstances, she may be able to obtain automobile financing and/or a mortgage during the chapter 13 case. Otherwise, the same rule of thumb applies to a chapter 13 debtor as a chapter 7 debtor regarding obtaining a reasonable and low-interest rate after the case is complete. Read Also: 5 Smart Ways to Boost your Credit Score A Guide to Getting Out of Credit Card Debt Why Would I Need A Business Credit Report? No Credit Rating Check Lendings Online split Second Authorization

Should You Consider Equity Release To Pay For Live-in Care?

Although it seems like equity release plans have been around forever, this sector of finance has only been regulated since 2004. However, this has not dented their popularity among over 55s wishing to free up a sum of money rather than leaving it tied up in their property. Many have used the money to fund home DIY projects, help a child onto the housing ladder, or simply for a blowout holiday or new car. Increasingly though many are seeing equity release as a good way to pay for care in their own home in old age. Equity is the value of your home minus any loans or mortgages secured against it which haven’t been fully paid off. If you’re wondering whether this would be right for you read our advice on the advantages and pitfalls of equity release and how the equity in your home could pay for a comfortable old age. What is Equity Release and How Does it Work? This is a method for releasing some of the untapped wealth tied up in your home. Being able to unlock the value of your home and turn this into cash is a way to remain in a much-loved family home. There are two main types of equity release – a lifetime mortgage or a home reversion plan, which is the sale of part or all of the property. A lifetime mortgage is a loan against the value of your home which is not repaid until either the homeowner dies or goes into long-term care, or the property is sold. If you decide to go down this route you must choose carefully between the two types of lifetime mortgage which are: The interest roll-up mortgage, which is the most popular option. With this, you receive either a lump sum or regular amounts, and interest is added to the loan at a fixed or capped rate. An interest-paying mortgage is similar to a standard mortgage in that you pay monthly or ad-hoc payments, and some plans allow you to pay off the capital, to reduce the sum owed at the end. The home reversion plan is only available to those aged at least 65. With this, you can sell all or a percentage of your home to a provider at below the market value and you become a rent-free tenant in your home. You can even sell percentages of the home at off-set intervals. Another, less well known and potentially more risky option is the sale and rent back scheme where you sell your home, at a discount and become a rent-paying tenant in your home. Points to Consider Home care services are increasingly seen as preferable to standard nursing home care for many reasons, not least among them being able to carry on living in your own home being looked after by a trusted live-in carer who becomes your friend. Lifetime mortgages are considered the most popular option for equity release because it allows you to retain full ownership of your property and some come with an option of paying back some of the loans over time in order to reduce the build-up of interest and retain as much of the value of your property to benefit your estate when you die. You can only apply for equity release once you are over 55 and the amount you receive is dependent upon the value of your home (minimum value £70,000) as well as your age. Your property must be in the UK. Benefits of Equity Release For today’s older homeowners who have seen the value of their homes rise significantly over recent years and with the added benefit of current low-interest rates, equity release gives you an amount of cash to spend now or to put towards a live-in care plan. Risks and Pitfalls of Equity Release The biggest problem with equity release is that you do not receive the full market value for your home, indeed the amount you can access would be much less than you would get by selling your home on the open market in the traditional way. Another disadvantage is that any inheritance your beneficiaries expect to receive would be reduced. The upfront costs and fees involved in setting up an equity release plan could be as much as £3000. If you opt for a lifetime mortgage there is a real risk that when the time comes for your home to be sold the amount owed may be more than you borrowed because of the compound interest charged on the mortgage, unless you can pay off some of the debt as you go along. So, if you want to leave a decent inheritance for your family you need to act with caution. Be aware that if you have a substantial amount of cash in the bank this could affect any means-tested benefits you may be entitled to. The upper threshold is currently £16,000 so above this you are ineligible for means-tested benefits. Your tax situation could be impacted. If you choose to pay off the whole of the lifetime mortgage early you could incur penalties. Risks of Home Reversion Scheme You may only receive between 30-60% of the market value of your home and there may be a clause in your contract which forbids you from moving home. Distressingly, once you die the property usually has to be vacated within one month which causes unnecessary upset to the family at a distressing time. Protections from the Equity Release Council You should look for an equity release provider who is a member of the Equity Release Council to ensure that any lifetime mortgage you take out will never exceed the total value of your property. You are also assured that: You can remain in your home until the end of the mortgage term You are provided with an independent solicitor who explains everything clearly to you Interest rates must be fixed or capped and the product must have a ‘no negative equity guarantee'. Always get the best independent adviser who is regulated by the FCA and discuss things with your family before signing on the dotted line. Read Also: What To Leave Behind Once You Have Sold Your Home The Guide to Understanding Your Home Value

DiversyFund 5 Steps to Protect Your Portfolio in a Difficult Environment

1. Do a Gut Check:

2. Build Your Emergency Fund:

3. Take Advantage of Rising Interest Rates:

4. Chill Out:

5. Look for Buying Opportunities:

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Content Rally

Content Rally wrapped around an online publication where you can publish your own intellectuals. It is a publishing platform designed to make great stories by content creators. This is your era, your place to be online. So come forward share your views, thoughts and ideas via Content Rally.

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11 Ways to Save Money while Studying in Israel

Does Bankruptcy Ruin Your Credit?

Should You Consider Equity Release To Pay For Live-in Care?

DiversyFund 5 Steps to Protect Your Portfolio in a Difficult Environment

1. Do a Gut Check:

2. Build Your Emergency Fund:

3. Take Advantage of Rising Interest Rates:

4. Chill Out:

5. Look for Buying Opportunities:

Share this Article

How Artificial Intelligence Is Helping Banking and Financial Institutions?

Know the Applicable Stamp Duty when Gifting an Asset

Content Rally wrapped around an online publication where you can publish your own intellectuals. It is a publishing platform designed to make great stories by content creators. This is your era, your place to be online. So come forward share your views, thoughts and ideas via Content Rally.

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Popular

Follow Us

Recent

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