Investing in stocks for the first time can be a daunting task, especially since there are so many options out there each with a different risk to return ratio. Consequently, many people who are thinking of investing are reluctant to do so until they better understand their options. Here are the questions you need to ask yourself and know the answers to, so you can gain that understanding and make your first investment in stocks:
What do I hope to gain through investing?
The first thing you should know is what your objectives of investing in stock are. Are you investing to diversify your investments? Hoping to gain extra income? Making this your primary source of income? Each of these objectives has a different route, and some are more difficult than others. Know what you want from investing before doing so.
What portion of my income should I invest and how much am I willing to risk?
Ideally when beginning your seed investment should be that part of your income which you are able to set aside a bonus or monetary gift. At least until you’re comfortable with investing and trading, do not put your savings on the line. Or start putting aside a small portion of savings that you are willing to risk on investments. Determine how much you are willing to risk as it is important when deciding on your investment type.
What sort of stocks do I want to invest in?
Different types of stocks come with different risk levels and different returns on those risks. Be sure to research your options and see which types you’d like to invest in. Some are more stable but yield lower returns, while some are volatile with higher returns.
Which industries do I understand well?
Investing in the biggest thing because others recommend it is not always the best option. Invest in what you understand pick companies from industries or sectors that you are knowledgeable about. This way you’re more likely to understand how the stock you’re investing in will be impacted by external forces.
Do I need a broker to help me?
This is largely a personal decision do you want professional help in managing your stock portfolio? If you have a busy professional or personal life, it might be better to have a professional who can dedicate the time to understanding your needs and managing your investments.
A certificate of deposit (CD) is a popular savings instrument. Here, customers earn interest on a lump sum amount locked in for a fixed period. Unlike a regular savings account, the amount invested must remain untouched throughout the term. Failing to do so may invite penalty fees or result in a loss of interest. CDs offer a higher rate of return for the lost liquidity. Avoid these nine common mistakes when opening a CD.
Withdrawing the money too soon
CDs promise a higher rate of return due to the fixed lock-in period. Withdrawing money from an immature CD can be expensive, as lenders typically levy an early withdrawal penalty. The cost may vary from bank to bank. Many opt for liquid CDs, which do not incur a fee when you withdraw the principal amount early. However, these CDs offer lower interest rates and may not be as lucrative as regular ones.
Signing up for a very long term
CDs come in different lock-in periods, the most common being six months, twelve months, two years, and five years. The Federal Reserve meets several times yearly to review interest rates for different tenures based on the economic situation. Currently, the interest rates on long-term CDs are not as attractive as before. However, some experts believe the Fed might hike the rates soon, so holding back for a while would be wise. Instead of locking in $10,000 into a five-year CD today, you could diversify your investment, creating $1,000 CDs with shorter and staggered term lengths. As the CDs mature in the coming months, you can close them and open new ones for a better rate.
Not checking what different banks are paying
Many open CDs in a bank they already have an account with, which could be a mistake. You must shop around and check the rates of interest offered by other banks. Comparing will help you receive the best returns on your savings. Online banks usually offer higher interest rates on savings accounts and CDs than their brick-and-mortar counterparts.
Failing to diversify CD investments
The term “diversification” is often used when talking about investing. It refers to the practice of having a variety of investments, such as stocks, bonds, and CDs. Diversification helps reduce the loss in case one investment fails to perform. Interestingly, you can also diversify CDs or indulge in what is known as CD laddering. Here, you set up multiple CDs scheduled to mature at different times using a combination of short-term and long-term deposits. Staggering lets you access your funds regularly and provides an opportunity to upgrade to a higher interest rate.
Ignoring other high-return savings options
CDs are low-risk, low-return savings instruments. Investing all your money in them may reduce liquidity and stall earnings over the years. Additionally, money tied up in a CD does not grow at the same rate as the cost of goods and services. So, instead of focusing on a single investment option, consider several types to meet your financial goals. The ones you choose must align with your risk tolerance and liquidity requirements. People looking for higher long-term returns may find an IRA or a 401(k) rewarding. Those looking for better liquidity may find a high-interest savings account appealing.
Opening a CD instead of clearing high-interest debt
Consider your existing debts when planning investments. If the interest rate on your debts is higher than the interest rate of your CD, you may make losses. As a rule of thumb, pay off high-interest debts before making long-term investments with modest rates of return.
Letting the CD roll over
Once the lock-in period ends, do not let the CD roll over into a similar term at the same institution. Sure, it saves time and effort, but it fetches a lower rate of return. In some places, the CD may even turn into a regular savings account with lower rates of interest. Instead, begin to shop around as the CD nears its maturity date. Look into higher-yielding CDs and other investment options for the best possible returns.
Ignoring odd-term CDs
Some of the best CDs happen to have unconventional lock-in tenures. Often advertised as standout offerings for periods like 5-, 17-, or 21 months, these odd-term CDs can be gainful options. They may be offered to attract new customers, celebrate an anniversary at the bank or credit union, or for another reason. Keep your mind open to these unconventional options as they allow you to earn better rates of return.
Opening a fee-based account first
Many banks and credit unions may require you to open a checking account before setting up a CD. Ensure these accounts do not have overhead costs. Since the earnings on CDs are fairly modest, fees from checking accounts can significantly reduce your net profit.
Although CDs are a relatively safe and wise investment option, stay aware of these common mistakes and avoid them diligently. Doing so can help you receive the highest possible rates of return to maximize your savings. Research before investing and consult a financial expert if you need more clarification. Also, read the policy’s terms and conditions carefully to avoid misunderstandings.
There are companies that work on collecting and maintaining credit information of consumers. These are known as credit reporting agencies (CRAs). There are three such major CRAs in the country, namely Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. Apart from these, there are other smaller-scale agencies too that specialize at the job. If you’re worried about “where to get my credit score?,” the larger CRAs are the most reliable bets.
These major CRAs obtain information from companies that you hold business and transactions with. People or companies that lend you money regularly report to these CRAs on your repaying status. There is also detailed information on the amount you are indebted and whether you have ever defaulted on your payments. Aside from the reports obtained from lenders, these companies also tally your general records based on certain other aspects. Some of these aspects are your public records from the local and state judiciary. These include your tax records and bankruptcy information. This information makes up an important chunk of your credit score and its report.
Equifax
Present in 24 countries, Equifax is an agency that offers consumers protection against identity theft and credit fraudulence. They also sell credit reports and credit monitoring assistance to businesses.
Experian
Experian started off in London and is now a trusted agency in 39 different countries. It provides you with a credit score, credit report, and even credit tracker on subscription. The agency uses FICO 8 system of credit score calculation. Experian was a part of Forbes’ “World’s Most Innovative Companies” in 2018.
TransUnion
Based across 30 countries with a database of over 1 billion consumers, TransUnion is another CRA giant. The agency, like the other ones, will provide you with your credit score and your credit reports. In case you decide to freeze your TransUnion credit report, it will also go the extra mile to notify Equifax and Experian, which frankly is a big help especially in case of identity theft and credit fraud.
So, the next time you are sat wondering “where to get my credit score?,” think of these three giants that provide you with an annual credit score and credit report for free once each year. However, if you are looking for more frequent updates, you can subscribe to their services and receive your monthly updates.