5 Tips To Recover From a Financial Crisis

How bad are things going to get in the next few months and years financially? No one really knows if they are being honest. It seems certain that there will be a global recession, but it is hard to predict how long this will last and how severe it will be. 

The McKinsey group has recently estimated that up to 53 million jobs in the US are vulnerable as a result of recent events. They include in this number all permanent lay-offs, temporary furloughs, and employees who are likely to have their pay or hours reduced. 

It seems that there are not many people who will come out of this financial crisis unscathed. So how can you best prepare yourself to weather the storm of financial failure? Read on for five helpful tips on how to survive whatever the global economy has to throw at you. 

5 Tips to Deal With a Financial Crisis 

Whether you have already lost your job or you are facing an uncertain future, it makes sense to be prepared. Here are some steps you can take to get your finances in order and protect yourself from the worst effects of the financial crisis. 

1. Set a Budget 

Now more than ever, it is important to take control of your finances. Whether your income has taken a hit or as yet is unaffected, it is critical that you understand and have control of your outgoings. 

To achieve and maintain financial security, you must be spending less than you earn. This prevents you from getting into debt or eating into your savings and should help you to build up some savings in the long term. This will give you more security against uncertainty. 

The simplest way to manage this process is to write down your total income and list all your expenses. Some will be fixed, like rent and some bills, and others will be variable, like groceries and money for entertainment and clothing. You may need to track your spending for a few months to work out a budget for variable expenses. 

Then you need to set targets and keep track of your progress. This is the best way to be in control of your spending. This level of insight into your personal finances is critical in these uncertain times. 

2. Trim Your Budget Where Possible 

If you want to prepare for the worst or are already facing a reduced income, you need to eliminate all unnecessary spending. Do you really need multiple TV packages and streaming subscriptions? How often are you actually going to the gym? You need to be ruthless and analyze every weekly and monthly expense. 

You could get really serious and try to make some extra money by selling unwanted and unused possessions. You can use online selling sites or advertise locally. You never know what people might want to buy, out of the junk piled up in your garage! 

You could also look at your grocery bill and try some strategies to reduce spending on food. This could involve buying staple items in bulk, cooking meals in batches for the freezer, and having a weekly meal plan. This will mean you are less likely to spend on take-out or impulse buys if you have planned ahead. 

3. Get Help Paying Your Bills 

If your income has reduced, it might be a struggle to pay your bills. The stress of hardship can be extreme when you are worried about covering your rent, heating, and energy expenses. 

There are different kinds of help available for individuals whose income has been affected by the coronavirus outbreak. It may be possible to get assistance in paying for your home energy bill. Help is also available for telephone bills for low-income families. 

It is important if you are unable to meet your bills that you seek help as soon as possible. Otherwise, you could end up in further debt and the situation could quickly become much worse. 

4. Consider Debt Consolidation 

If you are struggling to keep up with debt repayments, it might be worth considering debt consolidation. This is a process of combining all your unsecured debts into one loan with one monthly payment. It can make loan repayment much more manageable. 

While debt settlement companies do not reduce the amount of your overall debt, having one single payment rather than multiple accounts can be much easier to manage. It may mean that the overall interest rate on the loan is lower too. 

However, it is important not to be complacent about this. If credit is freed up, it can be tempting to take on further debt. If you are taking on a debt consolidation loan, you should consider cutting up your credit cards to prevent yourself from getting into more debt. 

5. Plan for your Financial Future 

Knowing that you have enough money now and some put away for the future is the true meaning of financial security. If you can, start to put some money aside. 

It can be helpful to have two different savings accounts. You can use one as an emergency fund for any crises at home or daily unexpected expenses. You could earmark the other account for longer-term savings. Also, don't forget to keep an eye on your pension. Long-term investment is important for a secure retirement. 

If your job is vulnerable, you might want to think about retaining. You could undertake a professional skills audit to help you identify possible alternative career paths. While it is hard to predict which jobs will be most recession-proof, it is always helpful to have a Plan B. 

Surviving the Financial Crisis 

Staring poverty in the face can be a terrifying prospect. Being prepared for a financial crisis, both practically and emotionally, is critical. Don't neglect your mental health at this time and make sure you spend plenty of quality time with your friends and family (even if you have to do this virtually). 

By managing your money carefully and making some plans for the future, you may be able to protect yourself from the worst consequences of a global recession. And in the event of a loss or major reduction in income, you now have some strategies to ease the financial burden. 

Being informed and prepared is your key to success in a financial crisis. For more great tips about frugal living and helpful articles on financial matters, be sure to explore the rest of the website.

The 5 Best Investments During Inflation

Without earning compounding interest, your money's value is wasting away each year at an alarming rate. Your one dollar today will not be able to buy the same goods in the next few decades (or months at this point), and this is because of inflation. It is inflation that is measuring the services in the economy and the measures of average price levels in a country. This is the increase in price at a given point in time. Because of inflation results, the currency that you are holding today will buy less than before. With your buying power and savings at a loss, especially in a time of increasing inflation and wage stagnation (stagflation), you have to start planning to minimize it the best you can. 

Inflation is running rampant across the United States and many parts of the world right now due to many factors with prices skyrocketing. In fact, the U.S. and other countries just printed more money in the past 2 years than they have in the previous 200! The Fed continues to keep the printing press going for now. And with rapidly growing national debt adding up each year, things on the horizon don't look very promising. While inflation needs to be lowered down to a normal 2-3%, it has been hovering around 4% for awhile in 2025! Even mortgage rates are now at record highs, although they won't last forever since the red hot housing market will eventually cool. Clearly the inflation is not "transitory" as it was called for many months, and could contribute to an upcoming global recession. 

Now in 2025 it looks like inflation is starting to cool off slowly along with home prices, and eventually mortgage rates will start falling a bit. But nobody is home free yet.

Inflated pricing a complicated issue with many moving parts. The record-breaking inflation is blamed by many on Joe Biden, Donald Trump, Powell, The Fed, Russia, or China. But the truth is that no one single person or country or industry or political policy is to blame after the Coronavirus pandemic fallout that has wreaked havoc on the economy.

Nowadays just going to the grocery store or buying building materials is costing a fortune at this point, if you can even get the products you are looking for at all in our new inflation nation. There is a noticeable shortage on all items, and prices are reflecting it. Empty shelves and panic buying are occurring even now, especially around the holidays. Even the almighty Dollar Tree will be raising prices on some items above $1 soon! Some products don't increase prices but instead just reduce size or quantity to cut costs.

This is why it is essential to have a hedge against inflationary price increases. When prices go up, you need an investment that will go up in value, and your portfolio should be able to keep up with the costs as you age. In addition, the economy of a particular country can rapidly contribute to inflation. This can be in the form of a rise in wages or rapid processing of oil and other raw materials. 

It is natural to have inflation in the market. However, who wants to lose money over time? It helps to lower your bills and save more money, but what you really need to do is invest in things that give you a return higher than the level of inflation. This is why many disciplined investors are going into other asset classes when they notice that the markets are going to turn into a climate of inflation. Some of the top assets that you may consider to fight inflation include the following: 

5 Top Investment Options To Fight Inflation

1. Gold 

Gold bullions or coins are always considered a hedge when the prices are soaring. This is because gold has not lost its value over centuries, and it’s still considered by many as an alternative currency. Gold bars and specific coins are helpful when a native currency of a country is losing its value as the people’s trust in the government becomes lesser. This is a physical asset that one can hold in their hands, and the value tends to hold for the most part. 

2. Bond Portfolios 

Bond portfolios with 60/40 stock are a traditional mix of bonds and stocks, and they are considered the safest investments. They are conservative, and if you’re unsure about how to do the work on your own and are reluctant to pay for an advisor, you can consider the dimensional DFA Global Allocation instead. This can be a straightforward strategy, and like any other investment plan, it has its cons. 

If you compare them to equity portfolios, they won’t perform well over a significant period of time. There are also the effects of compounding interest to consider. It is essential that the 60/40 is only a hedge that will keep the overall portfolio safe. However, you will likely be missing out on a few returns compared to the stocks with a high percentage. Some bonds have been booming, but no investment is guaranteed in a volatile economy filled with inflation. Bonds have also been having a moment in 2025.

3. Real Estate Investment Trust 

The REITs are known to be real estate companies that operate and own some income-producing properties. These houses tend to rise with inflation, and you can invest in one that consists of a pool of other like-minded people. The pool will pay out the dividends to the investors. Of course, if you want more exposure to this but want a lower expense ratio, you can always consider Vanguard Real Estate ETFs. 

However, know that there are disadvantages when you put all your money into a real estate investment trust. They are very sensitive to the changes in high-yielding assets. As the interest rates are rising, some people find it attractive to invest in treasury securities, and the result is a lower share of prices because the funds were withdrawn away from the REITs. 

Another thing is that REITs need to pay property taxes, and this can be more than 20% of their total operational costs. If the council or municipal authorities suddenly pass a law that increases the taxes for the budget shortfalls, the shareholders may find themselves strapped for cash. 

There are certainly high yields in general, but the taxes are imposed on the dividends. Most of the rates fall at about 15%, and the dividends are currently taxed according to the higher percentage of REIT. They are considered a personal income that can raise the rates and potentially put you in a higher tax bracket. 

4. S&P 500 

Stocks are still the best choice when you want to invest for the long term. Businesses usually have gained from inflation, especially if they require little capital as a start-up. Those that are often dependent on natural resources are considered losers. 

Today, the S&P 500 has a high enough concentration when it comes to communication services and technology businesses. They can account for more than 35% of the stake in the Index. Overall, the communications and technological developments serve as capital-light for many companies, and they can emerge as winners afterwards. 

If you are going to invest in the S&P 500, you need to look into the SPDR ETF for the S&P 500 that will be a watch list on your behalf. However, like any other investments out there, specific disadvantages may be present in the S&P 500 Index. One of the significant drawbacks includes giving a higher priority to many companies with a lot of market capitalization. The stock prices for the larger companies will influence the Index in no time. Also, there are no exposures with the small capital companies that historically provided the best returns. 

But when it comes to the very basics, you can get around a 9% growth per year investing in the stock market compared to a 3% loss to inflation each year. And all the compound interest from dividends really adds up.

5. Income From Real Estate 

The income from real estate comes with rentals. The amount and cash flow you receive every month can beat inflation. When the inflation rises, expect that your home will also increase in value. This is because the landlord can charge a higher amount each month. The result is that there will be a higher rental income that keeps up with the inflation. This is one of the best reasons you should consider investing in real estate if you want diversification. 

However, know that there are cons to real estate investing. First, you have to cough up a considerable amount of money for the initial investment, and the transaction costs are higher than what you may have anticipated. Additional costs like insurance, repairs, and maintenance can't be forgotten as well.

The second thing is that houses and real estate are not liquid, so you can’t quickly sell them without substantial losses in their value. Purchasing a home will require maintenance and management, and you also have a great deal of financial liability if you don’t research this industry before getting into it. And don't forget about other costs like property taxes or condo HOA fees!

In addition to rental income real estate or flipping properties, you can also invest in land if you speculate that it will increase in value over time.

Ignore Inflation Increases 

Inflation can be tough on your personal finances, small business, and retirement planning. But utilizing the above investment options, potentially along with cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin or other precious metals like silver, will ensure that your investing goals aren't inhibited. With a smart strategy including the tips above, you can inhibit the inflation inflammation!

GraniteShares CEO Will Rhind Interview On ETF Investing

Will Rhind is the Founder and CEO of GraniteShares. Follow him on X and LinkedIn. 

How Did You Get Started In The Financial Industry? 

I joined the Japanese Investment Bank Nomura as my first job after college. I moved into asset management around one and a half years later joining Barclays Global Investors (now Blackrock). I joined at the right time as the firm was launching the first ETFs in Europe and the ETF industry we know now was just beginning. 

Why Are You So Passionate About ETFs And ETPs? 

I was lucky enough to start working with ETFs at the very dawn of the industry in Europe and the US. I have worked with the product for almost my whole career now and have seen the amount of assets managed grow to approximately $13 Trillion today. ETFs have revolutionized asset management and the way we invest. They have replaced the legacy mutual fund as the investment vehicle of choice and offer investors a huge range of investment choices at very low cost. The exciting part to me is that I still feel we have a long way to go in terms of growth, strength and depth of offering. 

What Sets Your ETFs And ETPs Apart From The Competition? 

Over time we have developed a specialty in what we call high conviction ETFs. High conviction ETFs are, as the name suggests, investments that are designed to offer a greater potential for reward and risk. Leveraged Single Stocks have been a new ETF phenomenon that we pioneered and are a market leader in. 

Investors like the ability to trade daily leveraged exposures, typically +2X, to popular stocks such as Nvidia (NVDL), Tesla (TSLR) Palantir (PTIR). We offer an exciting range of options ETFs called YieldBoost that aim to generate high yields from options selling strategies. We also offer Gold (BAR) and other unique strategies all centered around our high conviction philosophy. 

What Is Your Favorite ETF Right Now? 

Like my children I love them all equally but I do think that our YieldBoost ETF range has some really exciting potential. It is a totally unique approach that sets itself apart from the competition. 

What Is Your Top Piece Of Advice For Investors? 

There are so many things to say but I think time horizon is probably one of the most valuable things to consider. Most people probably don't think long term enough when it comes to investing or markets. Markets can be volatile but knowing that the market will go up over a long enough time horizon probably helps you sleep well at night which is invaluable. 

Thank you so much for your time and insights in this exclusive interview Will Rhind when it comes to ETFs and investing! Keep up the excellent work with GraniteShares.

5 Best Sources of Funds for Business Startups

Once you have researched the market and written a business plan, you will need to think about acquiring funds. The US Small Business Associate even provides a fillable PDF spreadsheet you can download to calculate your startup costs.

You can get the funding you need to help open your startup if you use the right sources.

Your company deserves a chance to take off. If you need help backing your startup, keep reading. Here are the five best sources of funds for business startups simplified.


1. Use Your Savings

This is one pretty obvious. There is no better place to look than in your bank account. If you have savings, you should use it to invest in your business first. The more money you are willing to put in, the more others will believe in you enough to invest, too.

Using individual savings is common for new business owners. If you don’t have savings, there are avenues you can take to create a business funding first.


2. Find Investors

Investors can come from all walks of life. You can network to find a silent investor who believes in your vision. Or, you can turn to loved ones who can afford to gift you the money.

By partnering up with an investor, you won’t have to worry as much about startup funds. However, many investors want to see you have a solid plan and have put in as much money as you can.


3. Crowdfunding Sources of Funds for Business

Crowdfunding involves seeking funds from fans and future consumers. You can find sites that make it possible to share your business plan and ask for donations. With enough outreach, you may be able to obtain the funding you need.

Crowdfunding doesn’t always work. You should try other funding sources to ensure you don’t miss promised deadlines.


4. Get a Side Gig

As much as you may not want to work for another person, getting a part-time job can help fund your business. You will have to manage your time wisely, but once your startup kicks off, you should be able to drop the temporary position.

Some side gigs you can try are writing, virtual assistant, customer service, or a position in your new field. You will continue your work skills while earning the money you need to be your boss.


5. Obtain a Loan

A term loan gives you a set amount with a repayment schedule and a fixed or floating interest. Many businesses use loans for real estate, equipment, inventory, and other startup costs. Obtaining a business startup loan will help you get where you need to be.

Term loans are considered secured loans. These small business start-up loans require collateral you could lose if you fail to pay. These are common for new businesses or those without credit.


Plan For Startup Success

Now that you have read about the best sources of funds for business startups, you’re ready to plan for success. Use what you learned here to get the money you need for your company. You can combine ideas for higher investment costs.

Your sources of funds for business startups are a crucial part of your company. Keep exploring our blog for the best financial advice and tips and learn more today!

Interview With CEO Sylvia Jablonski On ETFs

Sylvia Jablonski is a trailblazer in the financial and ETF industries. She is the CEO & CIO of Defiance Investments. Follow her on X & LinkedIn for investing insights and financial commentary.

How Did You Get Started In The Financial Industry Sylvia? 

I started my career on the institutional side of the business, working with structured products, derivatives, and global investment strategies. Early on, I was fascinated by how financial innovation could create access and opportunity. That naturally led me to ETFs, which I saw as the future of investing—transparent, cost-effective, and endlessly adaptable to emerging trends. 

Why Are You So Passionate About ETFs And ETPs? 

ETFs democratize investing for retail investors and smaller firms. They give everyday investors access to strategies and sectors that were once only available to institutions. Whether it is AI, quantum computing, or even access to the S&P 500 minus the mag7, ETFs let you own a piece of the future without needing a hedge fund or private capital. It is this blend of accessibility and innovation that drives my passion every day. 

What Sets Your ETFs And ETPs Apart From The Competition? 

At Defiance, we focus on disruptive innovation. We are not afraid to be first movers—we launched one of the first 6G ETFs and are early leaders in quantum tech exposure with QTUM, which remains a favorite of mine. We build products that reflect where the world is going, not where it has been. Our strategies resonate globally, and we are seeing strong interest in European markets, where investors are increasingly looking for thematic and tech-forward opportunities. We are committed to growing our footprint there and tailoring products to align with global demand. 

What Is Your Favorite ETF Right Now? 

I must say that the Quantum Computing ETF is still close to my heart as my favorite ETF. It blends quantum computing and machine learning—two technologies poised to reshape everything from finance to healthcare. It is forward-looking, and it captures the spirit of what we are building at Defiance. 

What Is Your Top Piece Of Advice For Investors? 

Stay curious, and don’t be afraid to invest in what you believe in. Thematic ETFs can help you express a long-term vision while still offering liquidity and transparency. But always understand the structure, the holdings, and the risks. Diversify, think globally, and stay focused on the horizon—not just the headlines. 

Learn more at Defiance Investments!

Thank you so much for this incredible exclusive interview Sylvia Jablonski! We greatly appreciate your time and insights. 

Read Our Other Top ETF Expert Interviews, More Coming Soon: 

Oktay Kavrak | Derek Huizinga | Dan Cash | Ari Gutman

8 Tips To Improve Family Financial Security

In the U.S. nearly 35% of Americans have nothing saved for retirement. That is correct about 50 million people in the US have exactly $0 in savings for their hopes to retire securely someday. The same financial trend is taking place around the world as well after a mini recession and rampant inflation.

How will these people have any family security financially? What will families do during this global economic recession with shortages, debt, and inflation still running rampant? 

It is an embarrassing reflection on people's priorities and a shameful reflection on American society. But we are not here to shame you, we are here to help your personal finances. Because when it comes to finance, it is all about family first and financial freedom in the 2025 economy!

Family Finances First

If you are looking to improve your financial security, you have come to the right place. We have rounded up family security and finance tips to help you prepare for the future. 

Whether you have three small children or you are on the verge of retirement, today is always the best day to start improving your financial health. Fiscal responsibility is essential in today's world. From life insurance to college and retirement savings, we have rounded up everything you need to know about how to be financially secure for your family's future. 

Here is how to improve your family finances and secure their financial future. 

8 Tips To Improve Your Family Finances

1. Get Life Insurance 

Having an adequate life insurance policy is essential for ensuring the financial security of most families. But what is whole life insurance and why do I need it? Whole life insurance protects your spouse and family in the event of an unexpected death. If you pass away, your family loses your income. 

Unlike term life insurance, whole life insurance policies last your entire life. These policies don’t expire as you age. That means your family has even more monetary protection. If you pass away in your 90s, your spouse or children still receive the benefits. 

Whole life insurance is also inexpensive compared to some other forms of investing. Making your monthly payments on time is all you need to do to financially protect your loved ones in the event of and unfortunate accident or illness. 

2. Boost Your Savings and Emergency Fund 

According to a study by the Federal Reserve, the average American doesn’t have enough saved to cover a $400 emergency. 

If you fall into this category, it is not too late to start saving. There is some debate about how much of your income you should save for emergencies. While there isn’t a one-size-fits-all number, you want to be comfortable. 

Let’s say your expenses total $2,000 per month. If you lose your job, how long could you live off your savings? Having $10,000 in savings could float you through five months of unemployment. Saving $208 per bi-weekly paycheck for two years could get you to $10,000 in savings. 

Once you reach your goal of $10,000, don’t stop the savings there. Remember that there are plenty of other important things to save for. Keep up your savings rate and shift your money into retirement savings, investments, and your child’s education. 

While an emergency fund is important, saving for retirement and investing is arguably even more vital. Should you need more than what is in your emergency fund, you still have these assets to pull from. If you never need them, they are growing at a much higher rate than a savings account. 

3. Create a Budget 

If you are thinking there is no way I can save any money each month for your families, it is time to take another look. Budgeting isn’t about coupons and envelopes of cash. It is about going through your expenses and really looking at how you are spending your money. 

Take some time to go through your bank account. Look at how much you have coming in as income. Next, look at what expenses you have. Fixed expenses are bills you have to pay each month. This includes your mortgage, student loans, and car payments. 

Next, look at the expenses you can trim some costs if needed. You might not even realize you have been paying for three different music subscription services. If you aren’t using things such as group fitness classes or virtual cooking lessons, take the time to cancel them. It is the frugal thing to do for masterful money management!

Once you have a clear picture of where your money is going, it is time to see what is left. If the answer is nothing, take another look. Look at your grocery bill and how much you spend on coffee or eating out. 

Your food and entertainment spending are likely areas where you will be able to pull down some extra savings. Set a goal for each of your savings buckets. You should always have one for retirement and financial emergencies. You may want more for things like a new home and your child’s education fund. 

4. Make a Financial Plan 

Once you have your budget in place, it will be easier to tackle your next steps. Consider your financial goals. What does it mean to you to have financial security for your family? 

Some people, want to pay off their debt while others prefer to see a large emergency fund. Whatever your goals are, get them down on paper and start shifting your budget accordingly. 

5. Pay Off Debt 

Debt is expensive. The less debt you have, the less interest and finance charges you are paying. With less debt, you will see lower interest rates on cars and homes. 

Without credit card debt, you will drop expensive monthly interest payments as well. Your credit score will improve, and you will have a better debt-to-income ratio. Pay down your debt and you will be that much closer to better financial health. 

6. Save for Retirement 

Retirement is one of those non-negotiables when it comes to savings and financial planning. There comes a time in everyone’s life when they aren’t able to work anymore. Think about how you’d like your retirement to look and what you will realistically need. 

Make a plan to invest in your future. If you have an employer-funded 401(k) plan, start by maximizing this. An employer match is free money you should take advantage of. Next, consider opening your own brokerage or IRA account. 

Set up automatic withdrawals from your checking account into these investment accounts. When the money comes out automatically, you won’t miss it. The money goes right in each month and you can sit back and watch it grow. 

If you like to see a visual of how you are shaping up, there are a lot of great apps you can use. You can put in all your accounts and funds and they will automatically add up your wealth and net worth. 

From here, you can see what that looks like when you retire. Is $500 or $5,000 enough to live off of each month? Remember that any wealth you accumulate can also be left to your spouse, children, and grandchildren to take care of them after you have passed. 

7. Provide Your Family With Finances for College 

When you first have a baby, college can seem far away. You will be surprised at how fast the time goes. How much you should save for college is often debated by financial experts. 

With the rising costs of education, if you have multiple children, paying for all their college tuition will be expensive. A 529 Plan is a tax-advantaged way to save for college. 

Instead of burning yourself out trying to pay for it all, aim for a third. Paying for a third of their education means your child handles a third and the final third is paid through grants, scholarships, or loans. 

Remember that your child should also be involved in this process. There are work-study programs and on-campus jobs that provide students with income to offset the cost of their education. Get them involved in the planning process as well. 

Also remember that paying for their entire education isn’t a burden you need to take on alone. Whether you pay for 100% or a few thousand dollars, there is no right or wrong answer here. Starting young, however, gives you the best chance to accumulate some savings when they reach 18. 

8. Set Up a Will or Estate Plan 

Once you have children, if you don’t have a will, it is time to get one. An estate plan is another security to make sure your final wishes are clear. When you pass away, your loved ones won’t have to fight over or sort out what asset is going where. 

These are especially important if you have young children. You can include medical directives, and who should care for your children in the event that you and your partner should pass away. 

These aren’t only for the super-wealthy families and estates. If you own a home or have any money in your bank accounts, you qualify for an estate plan and a will. Make sure everything is lined up for your spouse and children after you have gone. 

If you have also had more than one spouse or children from different marriages, an estate plan is a great way to avoid any tensions or confusion. Everyone will know your wishes and will understand what to do with real estate, investments, and assets which improves overall family security when it comes to money management. 

How To Improve Your Family Security and Finances 

Family security offers some much-needed peace of mind. It is a great feeling knowing you are on track for your frugal financial goals. 

For some, financial security means paying for their child’s education. For others, it is a large emergency fund or retirement savings. 

Whatever financial security means to you, it starts with getting control of your finances. You can’t change where your money is going if you don’t know what you are spending it on. Get your priorities in place and set your plan in motion for your family's financial future. 

From life insurance to estate plans, it is never too late to start taking advantage of these programs and securing your family’s financial future. For more finance and money resources to improve monetary family security, head to the Frugal Finances blog section.

Interview With Financial Professional Derek Huizinga

Derek Huizinga is the CEO of May 15 Media, May 15 Life, and May 15 Exteriors. He has been a successful businessman and finance pro for 20 years. Follow him on Instagram, LinkedIn, and Facebook. 

Here is our exclusive interview with business expert Derek Huizinga:

How Did You Get Started With Investing Derek? 

I have been into financial management and investing since high school. I took a Junior Achievement class and led a group of students to win a regional area stock market challenge. By age 19, I got into individual stock and mutual fun investments and I have been hooked (with many ups and downs) since for the last 20 years. 

How Did You Begin Posting Financial Content Online And Which Online Platforms Do You Use The Most? 

I began posting financial content with WordPress blogging through ownership of several news, general, finance related sites. Currently, I use LinkedIn, Instagram, and individual blogs to promote finance content and services. 

What Is Your Favorite ETF Right Now? 

I like to invest in other securities or wealth vehicles. I like stability investments now since my business ventures involve more risk. XDTE from Roundhill Investments is the only ETF I am currently invested in. I have done individual, futures, crypto, traditional and Roth IRA, IUL, and unsecured loans, along with more investments such as websites and domain names. 

What Do You Do In Your Personal Life That Helps With Your Financial Success? 

All of these things factors in my personal life are key to maximize success: exercise, nutrition, faith, reading, adequate rest, and time spent with my wife. Travel is a must to gain new perspectives and refuel the tank of innovation! 

What Is Your Top Piece Of Advice For Retail Investors? 

Do your due diligence and place your risks 3-4x accordingly. Keep working capital when cash is required and give yourself the freedom of proper timing. The best investments in the world require proper timing... and even the worst investments come out ok with proper timing. Time things right and understand the cycles that the market takes! 

Thank you so much Derek Huizinga for the exclusive interview!

Interview With ETF Expert Oktay Kavrak

Exclusive Interview With ETF Professional Oktay Kavrak. Follow him on X, LinkedIn, and Reddit!

How Did You Get Started In The Financial Industry Oktay? 

I studied finance in college, but it was the CFA program that ultimate piqued my interest in finance. I was particularly interested in the inner working of capital markets and trading which ultimately led to me entering the ETF industry with Leverage Shares. 

Why Are You So Passionate About ETFs And ETPs? 

I love the fact that it is a level playing field for retail investors. Whether investing $10 or $100,000 - you are getting access to the same product, with the same features, as professional investors in the markets. That is a real game-changer for smaller investors.

What Sets Your ETFs And ETPs Apart From The Competition? 

We were the first company globally to launch single-stock ETPs - this was on the London Stock Exchange back in 2018. This segment has since become one of the hottest areas in the ETF/ETP space, with over $100 billion in AUM globally. Our latest innovation is Europe’s first high-yield income ETPs on single stocks and indices - our IncomeShares suite launched in 2024. We have brought innovation to the fastest-growing ETF market in the world (Europe) and we will continue to do so in 2025. 

What Is Your Favorite ETF Right Now? 

For trading, it is the 5x Magnificent 7 ETP (ticker MAG7, in London). It is a straightforward way to “buy the dip” in tech stocks I am personally bullish on. There are many excellent funds available from Income Shares and Leverage Shares as well for various investing objectives.

For long-term buy-and-hold investing, I like the iShares Core MSCI World UCITS ETF (ticker IWDA, in London). With a single trade, I get exposure to 85% of listed equities across more than 20 developed markets. It is my "one-and-done" holding of choice. 

What Is Your Top Piece Of Advice For Investors? 

Stick to your plan and stay invested through both bull and bear markets. More money has been lost trying to time the market than by simply holding through drawdowns. Investing isn’t always smooth sailing, but extending your holding period gives you a much better shot at long-term success with ETFs for 2025 and 2026.

How To Handle Money And Manage Your Finances

Let’s Learn To Handle Your Money Better 

You have bought a new shirt, had a delicious meal in a restaurant, and have been to the movies a couple of times. That all has left a gaping hole in your budget. Sounds all too familiar? Does it mean that you live beyond your means? 

Almost everyone has lived beyond their means at least once in their lives. And then, they wondered where all the money went to. However, if this happens regularly, it can be a sign that you cannot handle your funds appropriately. It occurs when you: 

● Don't know the amount of our income and expenditure 
● Don't know what your monthly budget is 
● Are surprised how high the bills are every month 
● Are putting the issue of an old-age provision on the back burner 
● Believe credit rating is a points collecting system 
● Like to postpone bank appointments 

First of all, we should ask ourselves what "handling money" really means. There is simply no clear definition, and everyone understands something different by it. But for most, handling one’s money right means that there's some money left at the end of the month. 

Studies show that people who have more money left than others generally handle their money differently. Most of us don't have a bank loan to repay, so we don’t have to worry, at least in this regard. Studies show that dealing with money properly is something completely different for men and women. But who is better at handling their money? Women have a less strong desire to make a lot of money and make large savings than men. In addition, men are much more prone to risks when it comes to investment. In their turn, women are better at dealing with money than men and are more economical.

One Possible Cause Is Heredity 

The reason why many people cannot handle their money properly is that their parents were the same way. If parents have always lived beyond their means, their children will also have a hard time handling their finances properly. However, that doesn’t mean that you should blame your parents for your financial misery. 

Have A Household Book 

First and foremost, it is important to get a rough idea of ​​how much you spend each month. List in a budget book all monthly fixed costs, such as electricity, water, insurance, and telephone. Calculate how much money you spend on food, restaurants, leisure activities, etc.

Important: Always have a contingency fund. Sum up all your expenses and subtract them from your total income. And here comes the most important point: is there a minus or a plus before the result? In the best-case scenario, you should end up in the black. 

You can also save a lot of money without leaving your home. For example, you can drink tap water instead of mineral water. You can drink your coffee at home instead of going to the coffee shop nearby. You can also purchase groceries in bulk and not go to the store every other day. If there are leftovers from the previous day, you can use them for cooking an original dish. 

In any case, a budget book will be an important tool that will help you manage your finances most effectively. List all expenses in the future: the bread you buy from your local bakery and the outfits you purchase from your favorite clothing store. It’s important that you note down each sum of money you spend. That way, you will gradually get a sense of where your money goes and change your spending habits accordingly. 

Find An Alternative 

It is important that you look for a suitable but cheaper substitute. Do you go to restaurants frequently? You can organize a gourmet meal in your own home and invite one or two of your friends. Looking for a case assignment to buy? On websites you can save some money with different coupons and special discounts.

Set Yourself A Monthly Budget 

Set yourself a realistic monthly budget and try to stay within it. That way, you’ll be able to control all your expenses. 

Stop Using Your Credit Card 

A radical but quite effective measure is to get rid of your credit card. Without a deposit account, you are no longer tempted to live beyond your means. 

Pay Cash 

Always try to pay cash. You’ll be more reluctant to spend a fixed amount of money that you have in your wallet. Also, think twice whether you want to exceed a specified amount in your wallet during the week. 

Stop Spending Money On Unnecessary Things 

It is very important that all actions remain consistent. Resist all attempt to spend money unnecessarily. For example, you can unsubscribe from email newsletters from online shops, stop browsing through catalogs, and drive into town only if you really need something. 

More Money-Saving Tips 

Here are some simple recommendations on saving money that you may use in everyday life: 

● Reduce Power Consumption - Refrigerators and are real power guzzlers. It's best to check that they are at least two inches away from the wall and that they’re not in the standby mode. Simply disconnect the device from the power supply. 

● Compare Providers - Up to $550 can be saved simply by changing your electricity supplier. Doing so is usually very straightforward and fast. The same applies to your telephone provider — we often pay for services that we don't need at all. 

● Sharing - Car sharing is about sharing the same car with people in your area. But you can also share everything else, such as strollers, bicycles, washing machines, and many more. There are different sharing platforms that allow you to save a lot of money. 

● Biking - Is your bike all alone outside? Well, no more. You can save a lot of money by bicycling to work. You will save on fuel and car maintenance while also getting in some frugal fitness, which could also save you money on healthcare related expenses in the long run. 

Or, maybe it is not you who can not handle your money, but our partner? In that case, we should report the problem without putting the blame directly on them. Just discuss the issue with your loved one and try to work out a possible solution together.

3 LLC Tax Benefits Businesses Must Know About

Paying taxes is one of the largest expenses that a business faces every year. How would you like to lower your company tax liabilities? Small businesses pay on average 19.8% in taxes. You may be able to lower the amount you pay in taxes by forming an LLC (limited liability company) instead of remaining a sole proprietor or independent contractor.

There are tax and legal advantages of forming an LLC that can easily be overlooked. Are you ready to learn all of the LLC tax benefits?

Let’s get started on 3 top LLC tax benefits for your business!


1. Employee Benefits

Employee overhead is often the largest expenditure for small businesses and LLCs. In order to be competitive and attract the best and brightest, you have to have a great benefits package.

Benefits like healthcare are expected, but that can be a huge burden for employers because healthcare keeps increasing.

You can deduct those expenses you use for LLC employee benefits, which can help you lower your tax bill.


2. Pass-Through Tax Deduction

LLCs can take advantage of a 20% pass-through tax deduction, which was included in the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act.

What this means for business owners is that you can deduct 20% of your business profit from your income taxes. While the LLC setup itself costs money and may have annual maintenance fees, in 2025 you will end up saving a lot more money than you spend with a limited liability company formation.


3. Capital Expenses

LLCs that have to invest in buildings and equipment can benefit from this tax deduction. Capital expenses are often related to real estate, and here is how they impact your taxes.

You can deduct large purchases over a period of years, instead of taking a massive taxation deduction in a single year.


How Much Can You Deduct?

How much you can deduct from your business taxes depends on what type of LLC or corporation you form. How can you compare an LLC vs corporation? Let’s take a look at how the IRS treats LLCs and corporations.

An LLC is a limited liability corporation. It can have one member, such as a sole proprietor, or several members or partners.

In the case of a single-member LLC, the IRS views the member’s finances and business finances as one and the same. Business owners report their income and business deductions on Form Schedule C and pay federal income and self-employment taxes on the net profits of the business.

For an LLC with multiple members, each member will pay taxes on their share of the profits of the business.

Corporations are treated differently by the IRS because the business and owner’s finances are completely separate. The owner usually receives a salary from the business, which they pay income taxes on.

The business is taxed as a separate entity, the business reports its profits and losses and is taxed on profits.

LLCs are often seen as more flexible because you can choose to be taxed as a corporation. For example, a single-member LLC can elect to be taxed as an S-Corp.


The Top LLC Tax Benefits

It is smart to register your business as an LLC because there are legal protections in place and there are LLC tax benefits to consider, too.

You can take advantage of limited liability company or ltd tax benefits like writing off capital expenses, employee benefits, and the pass-through deduction.

If you want more great business tips and taxation tidbits, be sure to visit this site often. For more accounting advice like top LLC tax benefits and ways to save on personal taxes, visit the Frugal Finances section of our site.

6 Risks Of Business Loans And Financing

Like most things in life, business finances are also very uncertain. It doesn’t necessarily mean that the functional operations of a company may go as per you initially planned. A perception regarding people in business is that the owners throw away cash as if they have a money- printing-facility in the office. 

Cash flow is the central aspect of a business that resorts them to take a business loan for funding purposes. While there are lenders available for financing options, there is always some risk involved. It is essential to keep these into consideration while applying for a business loan or new company funding. Here we are sharing six risks associated with a business loan and financing you need to focus before taking the step. 

The 6 Risks Of Credit For Businesses


1. Banking Risk 

Whenever a loan credit gets carried out, the banker takes the chance that the borrower will pay the amount back. In this way, the bank undertakes a risk of interest rate, which is subtle but present nonetheless. This risk represents the possibility that the bank has priced the rates incorrectly, whether it is the fault on the bank’s behalf or due to marketplace changes. If it turns out that payments are not enough to cover the deposits. The bank is on the verge of profit failure. 

2. Borrowers Risk 

As risks are relative to everyone, borrowers are likely to subject. A borrower gets a loan for a reason if presented logically. The borrower, in this sense, has a risk that is on the return of investment. If the ROI is too low as compared to the cost of loan borrowed. Then this will be a financial disaster for them. The most significant risk that a borrower faces is that if something goes wrong with the investment. They might not be able to pay back, putting more strain on the borrower’s financials. 

3. Having To Pay Additional Interests 

Taking a loan can be hard, but spending is easier. However, making payments on due time is the challenge. High-risk lenders and borrowers need to know the risks associated with business loans and financing and devise their payment plan accordingly. While there is no problem in making timely payments, however, if you miss even one payment, it will incur a penalty in the form of additional interest. An occasionally missed amount might be recoverable, but a continuous cycle will put a strain on the financials and will put your business in financial danger. 

4. Damaging Credit Score 

Your credit score tears itself if you do not pay on time. It is simple as that - to keep your credit score on the positive side and avoid such a scenario. You must be sure to make your monthly payments on time. While it looks tempting to use the loan amount to make investments early on, it is a wise decision to calm down and smartly use that borrowed amount. An impulsive expenditure will not only make your credit score look bad. However, it will also give your business a bad reputation in terms of financials. 

5. Borrowing More Than You Can Repay 

Sure, going through all the financing process and getting loan approvals is the more accessible part. The hard part comes when you have to make sure to process on time. It is possible when you know the limits of your revenues and expenses. If you borrow the amount, more than your business makes, with the idea that injecting it will do the business, prosper. Then you are at the end of a burning rope. Knowing the limits of your business finances is the key to ensure that the loan borrowed is under your control. 

6. Difficulty In Getting Finances Or Loans For Future 

An associated risk for a borrower is the difficulty in getting future loan approvals. It might be due to any of the reasons like late payments or poor credit scores. If you are an avid loan borrower, you know that your financial history is essential for future approvals. To get approvals for future loan chances, be sure to keep your financial record clear and avoid any commotion. 

Proceed With Caution On Business Loans And Financing 

It may seem tempting to take a business loan to keep your business operations in a cycle. However, there is no denying the risks associated with it in any way. Most of the time, borrowers ignore such risks thinking they will cover it. It turns out their instincts were wrong on many levels. You take a loan for several reasons, be it personal or business-related. 

You know the risk associated, in case you fail to deliver the payments on time. Take your time, research thoroughly, and then decide whether loan financing is the only option for you. Make the leap if you understand the risks associated with business loans and financing and the pros outweigh the cons.