Sabtu, 07 Agustus 2010

Google is The Best Bussiness Driver

As a prospective entrepreneur, operating either one web site or several websites, the primary motivation is probably commerce, regardless of product or services rendered. The reality is that while a customer needs a product, they're almost certain to utilize Google as the tool to locate and buy products from the hopeful eCommerce entrepreneur. According to the real time statistical source, Worldometers.net, Google searches average well over 840,000,000 per day. How does one structure a web site, fulfill customer expectations and reap the rewards? This is the key issue facing small business.

Google is a Moving Target

Despite the efforts of Microsoft's Bing search engine, Google is still the most powerful single force on the net today. In an article written for the web by Sherrylynne Starkie in Why Search is More Important Than Ever, she stated, "According to recent statistics, although Google retains nearly two-thirds of the U.S. search market, it did drop a fraction from 65.7% in Dec 2009." Even with their phenomenal success, Google continues to modify and improve its search engine technology as other search engines challenge their worldwide dominance.
This make SEO a veritable nightmare for companies involved in this technology segment . Accordingly, the web site owner is at the other end of the SEO Google whip trying to budget ever higher marketing expenses. In a previous article, the author had urged web site owners to embrace social networks such as Twitter, Facebook and Linkedin as part of the new reality of online business. While true, the ever changing and evolving face of Google continually adds more depth to the dimension of the problem. Google will always be the not so invisible 900 lb. gorilla in the room.

Learning the SEO Google Jungle

In the good old days, say the mid nineties, it was possible to buy inexpensive search engine optimization software and literally crank out an optimization for a web page. This allowed a web designer to load multiple versions of a single page appealing to the various search engines that were active. Now with Google's dominance, SEO is a bit more simplistic, but somewhat more intense. With the rise of social networking as real business venues, Twitter, Facebook, YouTube and LinkedIn, may also be optimized for Google, as well. For instance, every time a posting is made on Twitter, etc., the SEO professional should also be posting the URL and any locations on the social networks with the Fan pages and group locations connected with the respective URLs. While this sounds like techno-drivel to the typical web site owner, it is relatively easy to accomplish... even for business owners with limited web capabilities.

How to Monetize Using Google, et al

Obviously, an intelligent business strategy in today's internet world now means SEO, Social Networks, Blogs and paid advertising, particularly Google Adwords. All of these venues are almost like a funnel...a Google induced funnel that should have sources from the supporting social and blogging networks. Once the potential client arrives, the landing page must efficiently deliver the appropriate content to accomplish what it was designed to accomplish: product sales, information, e-mail address capture, etc. If the web site visitor quickly clicks away, then all of the planning, time and advertising dollars invested was wasted. Therefore, various landing pages will need to be tested and improved. The landing page will need to be compelling enough for the visitor to take whatever action the web designer sought.
In summary, web designers and web owners will likely depend upon Google to be the horse carrying visitors from social networks, from blogs and from the judicious use of Adwords and optimized web pages to making that ever important decision. That decision to buy, pay or supply information is the measurement of web success. Web pages must continually adapt to that which what Google searches for, as Google adapts.

Where is the Fit ? : Facebook, Twitter or You Tube ?

In today's internet world, good search engine keyword placement and keyword Meta tags are only part of the solution. Formerly, it was the only solution to getting your product or service noticed on the web. With over 1.7 billion world wide users on the internet, according to an Internet Usage Reporting site, Internet World Stats , the future of eCommerce sales supported by a shopping cart looks rosy.
However, with the proliferation of thousands of sites with shopping carts, conversely, the success of e commerce looks like its own worst enemy for the prospective entrepreneur. Social networks, such as Twitter, Facebook and Linkedin supported to an extent, by YouTube are the reality that must be considered. When blogs are added to the marketing equation, the picture may be more complicated, but still rosy.

Does Facebook, Youtube & Twitter Fit With Your E commerce Website?

According to Robert Grant, one of a new breed of social networking entrepreneurs, publishing on the internet in "How To Monetize Your Social Media Presence", maintains that shoppers are more likely to check with social networks before making important purchases.
Consequently, a web presence would need to be supported by a marketing program that relies on an integrated social networking strategy. This model relies on all manner of online marketing tools to attract the potential e Commerce buyer to your site. Other appoaches have stressed the importance of blogging, as well.

Blogging, another part of Marketing Strategy

With the dwindling appeal of conventional mass media, newspapers, case in point, blogging has reared its head not only as part of the social fabric, but importantly, as part of the commercial online world. According to Tiara Ria, in an online article, 10 Blog Monetization Tips, stated that "Blogging is one of the best ways to gain relevance in the search engines, because you are sending out fresh and relevant content and telling the search engines exactly when you’re doing it."

Is Website Marketing Dead?

Not even close. A website is the engine that sells a product or service, but paying attention to the ever changing face of the internet and modifying strategy accordingly, will mean a continuing source of business. In basic terms, this means that the web site is the centerpiece of an online business, but blogs, social networking, SEO and whatever new developments occur will increase market share. All of them are important, social networking and blogging obviously will produce no results if the web site is not live or is rarely viewed by perspective customers.

Website Success Action Plan

Get seen, get noticed and participate. This means activating a Twitter account, developing a Facebook Fan page, starting a LinkedIn group featuring a product or service and by all means, develop a following with a blog. With an SEO optimized web site and by exploiting the social media, the activity and buzz that is generated, will increase sales.

Tips When Using Social Networking Sites for Marketing

For online advertisers and internet marketing specialists looking to capitalize on social media for sales, opt-ins, and long-term success, it might be best to step back and think about how they are going to do so. The following are tips that will help any online marketer approach social network marketing effectively:

Don't Become "Follower-Deaf" on Social Networking Sites

Follower deafness is an social network marketing setback that is exclusive to Twitter. When profiles reach a certain level of popularity, particularly in the amount of people they are following, it becomes difficult for the owners to achieve real two-way communication with any of the people attached to their account.
Hitting this point of relative popularity is suicide for relationship marketers and internet marketing specialists. For brands and online businesses, no matter how big or small, it is important to be accessible to all followers, and minimizing interference and noise can help social network marketers achieve that. Knowing this, social network marketers should cut out useless followers, prioritize real interaction, and reap the benefits.

Don't Define Your Social Network Marketing Goals Openly

Even when openly acting as a permission marketer, their followers on social networking sites can easily be disgruntled with any sort of non-discreet marketing message. Audiences hate knowing that they are being marketed to. It can be referred to as a weird fact of human nature or a kink of psychology, but it is true.
When social media marketers and internet marketing specialists openly discuss their marketing intentions with their audiences, they risk affecting and negatively influencing the relationships that they are trying to preserve. Online marketers on social networking sites should be open and honest with their intentions, but not to the point where it hurts their ability to run a successful business.

Limit Your Daily Interactions on Each Social Network

So many online advertisers and internet marketing specialists often find themselves tempted to flood their social networking accounts with as many marketing messages in a day as possible, hoping that each of their followers will find at least one thing interesting. Some times, that is also done to promote as many aspects of a brand or online business as possible. However, doing so is actually very detrimental to online marketing campaigns.
There are only so many bases online advertisers and internet marketing specialists can cover in 24 hours. Much like excess followers and online communications can result in "follower deafness," excessive daily interactions can result in a significantly diminished per-interaction value. The best online marketers know their limits, and they do their best to ensure that they do not exceed them.
These relationship marketing tips will help social media marketers, but only when backed up by a secure long-term strategy. Those hoping to tackle social media marketing should first create something scalable and effective across a long time period, then apply these tips and tactics to their overall plan.

How to Effectively using Social Networking Websites

For online entrepreneurs that are thinking of marketing products through social media, these tips will no-doubt help in achieving success. Social media marketers and internet marketing specialists should avoid becoming a mismatched marketing disaster and apply these tips, tricks, and tactics to reap the rewards that social networking sites can offer smart, innovative, and adaptive marketers:

Never Be Pushy on Social Networking Sites

Audiences on social networking sites hate spam, even the kind of spam that offers real value. If online entrepreneurs and internet marketing specialists market their products aggressively, particularly through the kind of "buy or die" marketing tactics that commonly pervade internet marketing, they will either be ignored or see nothing but rejection and criticism.
Social media marketers and internet marketing specialists should use a soft and less aggressive approach to their social network marketing efforts. They should always treat customers as prospects that deserve long-term care and attention. Sales are made through social networking sites, but they are rarely made through pushy marketing efforts and short-term sales tactics

Create Your Product Specifically for Your Social Media Audience

Some of the biggest and most successful companies test their products with small groups to gain valuable consumer insights before launching. Online entrepreneurs and internet marketing specialists should test the waters with marketing before their products are completely developed. Social networking sites can be used to gather feedback while their products are in development. By doing this, they will be rewarded with much greater social media sales success upon launch.
Another value of starting out in social networks is in building hype. Cap'n Crunch was an advertisement three months before it was a product. Why? Because the people behind it understood the importance of marketing on a product's design, direction, and long-term strategy. Online entrepreneurs and internet marketing specialists can basically replicate that type of marketing strategy in a simpler and more inexpensive manner through the use of social networking sites.

Back Your Offerings Up With Real, Constant Social Network Marketing Efforts

More than any other marketing platform, social media requires input in exchange for measurable output. Simply put, if online entrepreneurs and internet marketing specialists want to generate sales, they have to exert real effort. They need to get out there in the trenches and interact with their potential customers, even after they have bought whatever is being offered.
Ongoing social networking efforts involve developing real relationships with consumers as well as encouraging two-way conversations with them. With an ongoing effort, online entrepreneurs and internet marketing specialists will see their sales increase tenfold as the market grows more aware, interested, and trusting of them.
Although social networking sites are typically considered as online marketing platforms for generating web traffic, there are ways to properly and effectively use them directly for generating sales. All it takes is the right product and a proper approach to communicating with social media audiences.

Succed in Business : About Sales Generation on Social Networking Websites

From Twitter to Facebook, Friendfeed to Ning, social media websites have popped up in massive quantity. This has rewarded internet marketing specialists and online advertisers with a level of access to large groups of targeted audiences that was once impossible to reach. Now, there are even add-ons, web apps, and software that help online marketers easily establish their presences on social networking sites.
Generally, social networking sites are for branding exercises, traffic generation, and community marketing. Because audiences on such sites are known to have mindsets not suited for direct marketing, social media is rarely used successfully as a sales generation platform. However, there are actually huge sales generation opportunities in social networking sites for specific types of products.

Direct Selling Opportunities on Social Networking Websites

Beneath the mismatched businesses and poor planning often observed among businesses and internet marketing specialists engaged in social network marketing, there is potential to social media. This is particularly true for one type of product: the digital product. Digital products, particularly informational products, are inexpensive, easy to purchase, and profitable not just for their manufacturers, but for their marketers – everything that social media marketing demands.
Social networking sites are rarely ideal venues for generating direct sales. However, for products like e-books, audio clips, and other inexpensive non-physical products, the value of such sites can be tremendous. This is especially true when digital products relate to users' social networking activities or specifically target their declared interests.

Don't be Afraid to Experiment With Marketing Platforms Outside of Social Networking Sites

Pay-per-click advertising, search engine optimization, and affiliate marketing models still exist, even with social media fueling most of online business' sales. As internet marketing specialists and online advertisers, it is highly unwise to cut out marketing methods and revenue models in exchange for short-term satisfaction.
Online entrepreneurs and internet marketing specialists should invest in social media without neglecting other potentially profitable methods of client, customer, or promoter acquisition. Other online marketing platforms combined with a properly maintained social network marketing effort will generate a solid online marketing campaign that is sustainable for long term growth and sales generation.
Social networking sites are extremely valuable for developing communities around brands and generating web traffic for online businesses. Because audiences on such sites hate the salesman approach, direct selling rarely works. However, there are sales generation opportunities in social media, specifically for digital products. Nevertheless, social media marketing should never be used by itself as it often works for online businesses and internet marketing specialists only when backed up by a solid and complete online marketing strategy.

Succed in Business : Differentiate Brand and Product Marketing

Whether the professional is an executive in a mid sized corporation, a small business owner, or entrepreneur looking to grow a small business; it is important to understand one of the fundamental elements of marketing: the difference between brand marketing and product marketing.
Each is different but one cannot exist for a truly successful business without the other. Working together, they form an enviable strength that makes it hard for competitors to duplicate. Companies like McDonalds (I’m Lovin’ It), Dell (It’s a Dell) and Intel (Intel Inside) have done a stellar job using strong brand marketing to propel successful product marketing.

What is Brand Marketing?

Brand marketing is when advertising a brand name, corporate vision or company image rather than a specific product or industry. To put it another way, brand marketing sells the sizzle instead of the steak. It offers consumers a glimpse into the essence of a company through strong brand awareness such as logos, company mission, and potent corporate slogans or statements. The basic elements of brand marketing include:

  • Image
  • Positioning
  • Awareness
  • Attitude
  • Convey information

What is Product Marketing?

Product marketing covers the 4 P’s of the marketing mix: product, price, promotion, and place. In a nutshell, product marketing is promoting a product or service to the target market through a variety of venues, channels and means. In general terms, actions related to product marketing include:
  • Defining strategies
  • Product placement
  • Consumer offering (packaging, pricing)
  • Reaching the target market
  • Sales
Ford:
  • Ford telling consumers that "Quality is Job 1" – this is Brand Marketing
  • Selling that consumer a Ford Mustang – this is Product Marketing

Nike:
  • Integrating the ‘swoosh’ logo in every aspect of their marketing strategy; ultimately resulting in the consumer being able to recognize the Nike logo just by the swoosh logo – this is the ultimate in brand marketing.
  • Selling the consumer a pair of Nike basketball shoes with the swoosh logo – this is Product Marketing.
Cola Market:
  • When more than 65% of consumers think of cola, they think of the ‘real thing’, Coca-Cola. This is brand marketing at work.
  • Pepsi-Cola holds a firm market position through constant and aggressive product placement, complemented by a cost strategy of slightly lower per unit price points. This is product marketing.
For a company that does not engage in both brand and product marketing, the job to reach the target market is that much harder. Without a brand or image, the product marketing must work twice as hard to reach target sales levels.
The consumer equates brand with quality and prestige – the 12-29 age demographic being the strongest example. If it does not have a visible brand, they don’t want it. However, if a business executive or small business owner places the company brand in the mind of the consumer, it will be much easier to conduct product marketing and achieve corporate goals. Essentially, to be successful in any industry, it is critical to embrace brand and product marketing.

A Progressive Marketing Strategy

The benefits cannot be stressed enough. If time is taken by small business owners, marketing executives and entrepreneurs to formally develop a marketing strategy and marketing mix, a company’s likelihood to succeed will double. In 90% of small businesses, owners rely on intuition when making critical marketing decisions. This method does not allow the opportunity to think through all the aspects of the business; including critical elements such as products, placement and distribution. A well thought out marketing strategy allows management to define goals and provides a clear path to achievement.
The following represents a very brief overview of the steps needed to put together an effective marketing strategy. Keep in mind that although the business may require more or less elements, these are the basic essentials that need to be addressed in every successful marketing plan.

Identify and Detail the Unique Selling Proposition (USP) of Products or Services:

  • The unique selling proposition is a marketing term that aims to identify unique attributes to products and services that convinces a customer to buy or switch.
  • The proposition must be unique to the company’s product or service.
  • The proposition must be powerful to attract customers to purchase the product or service.
  • A company’s USP does not have to be a verbal message. It can be communicated to customers in a visual manner.

Clearly Define the Target Market

  • Who the company will sell to and why that group?
  • Is it necessary to segment the market into smaller, more focused segments, due to financial restraints?

Document all the Benefits of the Business

  • Benefits of products and services are what will convince consumers to buy. A successful business owner or marketing executive knows all critical product features and benefits and use these to market the business
  • Try and isolate benefits with the broadest consumer interest. This will help in marketing efforts.

Use the 4’s of the Marketing Mix to Determine How to Position Products or Services in the Market

  1. Product – Define product in terms of packaging, features, benefits and offering
  2. Price – Determine how to price products on the market. Will the company take a market approach to be a low cost alternative, or a higher price point by marketing quality and benefits?
  3. Place – How will the product get to the consumer? Determine methods of distribution which may include retail channels, wholesale, warehouse issues and global distribution.
  4. Promotion – How will the company promote products and/or services? What forms of advertising will be utilized to get the business in front of the customer?
A few things to remember when creating a new marketing strategy:
Always have a firm budget in place. Everything within the marketing plan depends upon the company’s financial ability to carry out a plan. Be realistic and plan within a budget. Never create a formal marketing plan until there is a complete understanding of the company’s unique selling propositions - this is a crucial first step before developing the rest of the marketing strategy.
A marketing strategy should be revised often; at least once each quarter. However, if results are not as expected, the management team must sit down, brainstorm and rethink the marketing strategy again.

Saving Money for College

College tuition is a big expense that many families are not prepared for. Tuition prices typically rise by as much at five percent each year, so it is a good idea to begin an educational savings plan early. Although saving for college can seem overwhelming, there are many college savings plans in place to help parents save over time or grow savings by investing in stocks and bonds.

State Sponsored 529 Saving Plans

A 529 Savings Plan is a state sponsored college savings program with an added advantage of tax benefits. Monies that are contributed to a 529 plan are allowed to grow tax deferred until withdrawal. As long as the money is used toward the tuition of a college education, there are no taxes charged when monies are withdrawn.
Almost every state has at least one of these types of plans but they may vary slightly from state to state. While contributions to a 529 plan are not tax deductible, in some states a portion of what is saved can be written off. Disadvantages reported by some contributors are the steep brokerage and annual fees.

Coverdell Education Savings Account

Similar to some 529 saving plans, a Coverdell ESA is an educational savings program that can be used for college. A nice advantage offered by a Coverdell ESA is monies can be withdrawn to fund private elementary or high school.
If parents wish to choose a Coverdell ESA, they should begin saving early. Maximum contributions to this college savings plan cannot exceed $2000 annually. However, low maintenance fees make these savings plans more popular than most 529 plans.

Educational Saving Bonds

Educational Savings Bonds are virtually risk-free and offer similar tax advantages as other college saving programs. Because bonds cannot be purchased until the age of twenty-four, bonds need to be purchased in a parent’s name with the child being the beneficiary of the bond. A minimum of $50 is needed to invest and bonds usually mature to full face value after 17 years.

Standard Savings Accounts

Many banks and lending institutions offer a variety of savings accounts for children. While most standard savings accounts do not offer any tax advantages, this type of college savings account is valuable in teaching children financial responsibility. When choosing a savings account for a child, look for one that has earns at least 1.5% interest and has no annual maintenance fees. Another advantage of a standard savings account is that any money deposited into it (under $100,000) is insured by the FDIC.

Saving Account for a Child's Educational in South Africans

Save money towards a South African child's tertiary education with this initiative by the Department of Education and The Association for Savings and Investment South Africa.

Educational Savings Account

The South African Government rewards citizens who save for a child’s education. The Fundisa Fund is a savings account, which can only be used for a child’s education at a recognized college or university.

High Yield Saving Account

This high yield saving account is exceptionally high yielding as the government pays a bonus of 25% per year for the first R2400 invested. The bonus is calculated in October and paid into the account in January.

Unit Trust investments

The money is invested in unit trusts, which grow on average by over 8% a year. Add to this the 25% bonus paid by the government, and the return on the investment is over 33%.

Save for Education

It’s never too early to start saving for a child’s tertiary education. Fundisa requires a minimum monthly investment of R40, or alternatively, lump sum payments. It is not only open to relatives of the child- anyone can contribute to the student’s fund at any time.

Student Education Grants

Only one Fundisa account can be opened per child. If the child decides not to study further after school, the fund can be transferred to another child. However, the fund must be used before the child turns 35, or the government bonus will be lost.

Paying for Student Education

When the student has been accepted by a tertiary college or university, the bank where the account is held issues a certificate, which the student hands to the fees department at the college or university. The college then claims from the National Student Financial Aid Scheme.

Open a Savings Account

The Fundisa fund is managed by Stanlib, and sold through the Post Office and three national banks – Standard Bank, Nedbank and Absa. Applications for Fundisa accounts can be downloaded from the Association for Savings and Investment South Africa (Asisa) website.

Funds for Education

Paying for a child’s tertiary education can be one of the largest costs in a parent’s budget. For many people paying for three or four years of University is out of the question. By starting early, and taking advantage of the government’s funding for education, a large proportion, if not all of the fees, can be saved before the child reaches school leaving age.

Quality Tertiary Education

A quality education is the best gift a parent or relative can give a child, equipping him or her with skills and training for life. With a Fundisa account the dream of your child becoming a doctor, lawyer, teacher or engineer is that much closer

Start at January 2011 : Coalition Government will Scrap Child Trust Fund

The UK's coalition government announced on Monday 24th May that the Child Trust Fund scheme will be gradually reduced over the course of this year. It will then be scrapped completely on the 1st of January 2011 subject to final legislation being put into place. What does this mean to existing/new parents?

Child Trust Fund Payments Will be Reduced Over 2010

Until this announcement the government gave a Child Trust Fund payment of £250 (£500 for low income families) to parents on the birth of a child to be invested for their future. This was then topped up when the child reached the age of 7. From August 2010, this scheme will be subject to change with reduced payments and will gradually be phased out.
From the 1st August 2010 the payments given at birth will be set at £50 for families on average/higher incomes and at £100 for those on lower incomes. The age 7 top-up payments will also cease from this date. Those with disabled children have been given other top-ups in the past. These will be continued until January next year. At that point the Child Trust Fund system will close down in terms of new or further payments.

What About Existing Child Trust Fund Accounts?

The closure of the Child Trust Fund system will see an end to government payments. But, parents with an existing Child Trust Fund account or those that will qualify to open one with a reduced payment in 2010 can still continue to save under the scheme.
For example, they, their families and their friends can still make their own contributions into an account (currently set at a maximum of £1,200 a year). Growth will still be given tax free status, parents can switch account types under current rules if they wish and the accounts are still not accessible until the child reaches the age of 18.

Why is the Government Ending Child Trust Funds?

The Child Trust Fund scheme is being scrapped as part of the coalition government's cost-cutting measures. It is thought that closing down the system will save £520m. David Laws, the new Chief Secretary to the Treasury, said that giving people money that was essentially being borrowed by the government was "deceiving" them.

Parents May Want to Look at Other Ways to Save for Their Children

Child Trust Funds were popular with many parents as they gave them the ability to start saving for their children's future with funding from the government. Many used these payments, and any allowance they were given to save on their behalf, to invest in accounts that could, for example, help defray college costs later in life.
Those that are keen to carry on investing or that need to make a start when they have a child may want to look at other ways to save. Parents in this situation may find the following articles useful:
  • A Guide to Tax Free Savings
  • 2010/11 ISA Allowances are Increased to £10,200
  • How to Choose the Best Investment ISA
  • How to Find the Best Cash ISA Savings Rate
 
A Guide to Tax Free Savings
 
The interest rates on savings accounts aren't currently that impressive. Consumers with money to save often find that a lot of the interest that they can earn gets eaten up by the tax they have to pay. There are, however, a range of tax free savings options that may be worth considering to avoid this happening.

ISAs (Individual Savings Accounts)

ISAs have been around since 1999. These accounts allow an individual to save money and/or invest in the stock market in specially designed accounts. Any interest that is earned from ISA accounts is paid tax free.
These accounts have savings/investment limits imposed on them. So, for example, an individual is given a tax free ISA allowance of up to £7,200 a year. Up to £3,600 of this can go into a cash ISA. The rest, or alternatively some or all of the total allowance, can be used in a stocks and shares ISA. Individuals aged 50+ in the 2009/10 tax year are now allowed to save up to £10,200 (to a maximum of £5,100 in a cash ISA). The extended allowance will apply to everyone else from April 2010.

(NS&I) National Savings & Investments

Accounts from NS&I are managed by HM Treasury. Individuals that invest in their products will basically be investing in the government. Some of the options on offer here are designed to give tax free savings. These include:
  • Premium Bonds
  • Index-Linked Savings Certificates
  • Fixed Interest Savings Certificates
Although a consumer can access their savings when they like with NS&I savings certificates products, these are often viewed as medium/long-term savings as the best returns will come over time.

CTF (Child Trust Funds)

CTFs are savings accounts for children that are funded by the government. These accounts were set up to help children get a good start to their adult lives and are designed to be accessed once the child turns 18.
Parents with a child born on/after 1st September 2002 are given a voucher from the government to open an investment or savings account for their child. They will also get an additional voucher when the child turns 7. Low income families qualify for additional funding. An extra £1,200 a year can also be put into the account by family or friends of the child or by the child itself every year.

Tax Free Savings and Pensions

Although individuals may be taxed on part/all of their pension payments when they start to be made, they may benefit from tax free savings benefits before this point. Pension contributions are not taxed while a fund is being built up via the tax relief system. So, individuals that have a personal pension and that use money that they have already been taxed on to pay into it can claim it back in tax relief up to limit of their pension allowance.

Income Tax Allowances and Savings

As well as thinking about tax free savings, some individuals can also use their tax allowance to save money. Each individual in the UK can earn up to a certain amount every year before they are taxed. This rate currently stands at £6,475 for the 2009/10 tax year. Those who are not tax payers or who earn under their limit do not have to pay tax but, if they have standard savings accounts, their bank/building society will tax their interest automatically
A non-tax payer can use an R85 form (available from their bank or building society). This will prevent the bank/building society from taxing interest at the source. Those with low incomes may also want to see if they can claim back any of the tax they may have paid on standard savings accounts.
Just because these savings options come tax free doesn't mean that consumers should forget about checking out all their options before taking one out. ISA interest rates, for example, can vary a lot and comparing savings accounts deals and offers may be well worth doing before choosing a product.


2010/11 ISA Allowances are Increased to £10,200

During 2009 the ISA tax free savings allowance changed from £7,200 to £10,200 for those aged over 50. During the 2010/11 tax year the increased amount is being rolled out to all UK consumers that wish to open an ISA account or to contribute to an existing product. How can the new Individual Savings Account allowance be spent?

ISA Allowances Can be Used in Both Cash and Investment Accounts

As in previous years consumers can choose where to put their savings. They can use a cash or an investment ISA or a mix of the two. They cannot exceed their allowance of £10,200 but they do not have to use all of it in any given tax year. There are specific rules on how this can be allocated to each specific ISA type.

How Much Can be Saved in Each Type of Individual Savings Account?

How the 2010 increased allowance can be used depends on how the individual wants to save or invest it. Basically, it is possible to:
  • Invest up to half of the allowance in a cash ISA.
  • Invest up to half the allowance in a cash account and up to half in an investment product.
  • Invest up to all of the allowance in an investment ISA.
In other words, it is not possible to save more than £5,100 in a cash ISA but individuals can save up to their entire allowance in an investment product if they do not wish to take up a cash savings option.
So, for example, an individual with the full £10,200 to spend that wants to use both kinds of accounts could split their allowance evenly between cash and investment ISAs. Or, if they prefer, they could place a lower percentage in a cash account and a higher percentage in an investment product.

How Many ISAs Can be Opened or Used in a Tax Year?

Individuals are limited to opening/using one account of each ISA type each year. So, they can save into one cash account and one investment account. They don’t have to take out both options but they cannot use more than one of each in every tax year.
Cash ISAs are available to those aged over 16. Investment products cannot be used until the individual reaches the age of 18. ISA transfers are possible and this may be worth looking at as savings are built up if it makes financial sense to change provider or, in some cases, the type of account used.
Before choosing which kind of ISA to use and which provider to sign up with it may be worth checking out options in more detail. Cash ISAs may be risk-free but it’s a good idea to check out where and how to get the best deals to maximise returns. Investment ISAs may come with a greater risk and investigating the types of account on offer with these products may therefore be worth doing.


How to Choose the Best Investment ISA
 
Those looking to use up some or all of their investment ISA allowance are faced with a variety of options. Unlike cash ISAs which tend to work in one simple way, an investment ISA can take many forms. Consumers may want to put some time into thinking how and where they invest their money to try and get the best returns.

Common Types of Investment ISA

There are a few different options to choose from here. In basic terms the consumer can opt to:
  • Take out a managed investment product where their money is actively invested by a funds manager.
  • Put their investment in a tracker investment ISA where their money is invested via a system that is linked to a specific financial index.
  • Invest themselves via a self select ISA where they have a say in where their money goes.
Choosing between these options may not be that easy, however. They may all have different fees and may also come with differing degrees of risk

Things to Consider When Choosing an Investment ISA

Choosing any type of investment can be difficult. There are generally no guarantees of performance with standard products and investors may be asked to assess their risk comfort level when choosing a product. In general terms the following may be useful:
  • Tracker ISAs may be cheaper in fee terms than managed products as they simply track an index and need no specialist input. For some, these out-perform managed funds.
  • A successfully managed fund can give much better returns if the manager gets his/her investments rights and pulls some lucky rabbits out of the bag. But, there are no performance guarantees here.
  • Self select ISAs may only give a decent return on investment if the individual knows what they are doing (or gets lucky).
  • Income types of funds may give better immediate dividends and returns but may not perform as well over time. Standard investments may go the other way.

How to Get Help Choosing a Shares ISA

Most people won't know enough about investments to make a truly informed choice at this stage. They may know enough to go for income over long-term growth or vice versa according to their circumstances. Or, they may feel confident enough to try their hand with a self select ISA. Most, however, will compare investment ISA performance tables and go with a company that is currently doing well.
This may work out fine but consumers would do well to remember that past or current performance means nothing in long-term investment terms. A shares ISA with phenomenal growth now could tank a few years down the line for a variety of reasons. Its manager might make mistakes or leave the fund. The index it might be tracking may start to do badly.

It may be worth considering talking to an independent financial advisor to assess options against needs. This could at least help the individual better understand their options and which one(s) may suit them best. Checking the costs of a shares ISA (i.e. the fees that may be charged) is also important. There's no point spending more than is necessary to hold this kind of account and fees can vary in the sector.
Finally, those looking to open an investment ISA should check out their limits and conditions first to make sure they qualify for its tax free status. They may also want to think about their cash ISA options and to use rate comparison tables to help source the best deals.

How to Find the Best Cash ISA Savings Rate
 
Saving money in a cash Individual Savings Account (ISA) can make sense. These products give tax-free interest (up to certain limits). But, not all cash ISAs give the same returns. The interest given by any financial institution that offers this kind of product can vary wildly. What is the best way to find the best cash ISA savings rate?

Finding the Best Cash ISA Savings Rates

This really comes down to shopping around. Like any other interest bearing account the cash ISA will pay a rate of interest that is set by the company that provides it. Rates across the industry can vary a lot.
It may, therefore, be helpful to do a rate comparison before applying for a product. This is relatively easy to do as there are plenty of ways to find lists of current ISAs and their rates. An individual could, for example:
  • Look at online savings rates comparison sites that either list savings rate across all products or that solely focus on ISAs.
  • Check the financial press/financial supplements in newspapers to see their own comparison tables.
It makes sense to compare cash ISA rates before choosing a product to save in. Getting even a small boost in interest rates could help maximise returns and earnings.

Comparing Cash ISA Interest Rates and Options

Most ISAs will offer variable rates of interest that may go up or down according to market conditions. Some, however, offer fixed rates of interest, either for a short introductory period or on a longer term basis. These rates may look good but it may be worth checking:
  • How long an introductory rate lasts for and what the underlying rate that will be given when it runs out will be. If this is low then the advantages of the initial rate may be lost and the individual may be better off with a standard option.
  • Whether the rate brings with it any conditions such as limits or bars on withdrawals. Some accounts may only allow a certain number of withdrawals before interest penalties are charged. Some of the higher fixed rate options may not allow withdrawals at all for a set period of time. This may not be an issue if the individual won't need to access their cash but it may be important if they think they might want/need to.
Bear in mind that it is possible to simply up sticks and move an ISA to a new provider to get better rates in the future so this may be worth investigating as well.
Those interested in ISAs in general may find it useful to check up on the regulations and terms behind these products. The tax free allowance given here can also be used for investment based accounts. Those looking for alternative/additional ways to save without incurring tax may also find A Guide to Tax Free Savings useful.

Important Tips : Saving Money for Children's Education

Start Saving Early for Children

It typically takes five or six years before a child begins her early education. So parents do have quite a long time frame to start saving. Ideally, do this before the child is even born. A cash savings of only $20 a week invested into a high interest savings account can help the parents save more than $1000 within a year. If the amount is reinvested year after year, it will grow into a sizable sum in 10 years. Make sure this fund is only for the child’s education and avoid using for other household or personal expenses.

Open a Child’s Account in a Parent’s Name

Punitive tax rates – 46.5% when the interest income exceeds $420 per year – are applied to investment income earned by children. So avoid investing in the child’s name. Instead, invest in the name of the parent with no or lower income. In fact, a non-working spouse could earn an annual income, including investment income, of $14,000 before paying income tax.

Invest in Managed Funds or Trusts

As it take years before a child steps into school, long-term investments like managed funds or trusts are extremely useful to save for children’s education. These investments are professionally managed by experienced fund managers and offer the opportunity to buy a diverse range of listed Australian and International shares. Start with a capital of $1000 and make a commitment to contribute $50 to $100 a month and the returns will snowball over the years.

Use School Savings Plans


In Australian, many leading banks and fund specialists like the Australian Scholarship Group (ASG) and Lifeplan also offer school or education saving plans for children. These plans are often tax-effective as the Australian government encourages parents to save for their children’s education. However, proceeds from such plans are only meant for children’s education and cannot be accessed earlier. Those who withdraw funds before they are due often face a penalty.
Good education often equates better job prospects and salary packages. That’s why parents are willing to spend on children’s education. However, they need to start saving for it early and invest it wisely in a parent’s name. They can also invest in managed funds or trusts and use school savings plans to start their kids’ school funds.

Start Investing on a Low Income

Investors don’t need hundreds of thousands of dollars to start investing. In fact, even small income earners can make profits through investments. The key to successful investing lies in discipline and adequate knowledge of the financial and investment market.
So how to start investing on a low income? Check out the following investment guide for people with little money.

Pay off Consumer Debts First

Most investment advisers will highly recommend paying off consumer debts such as car loans, credit cards and overdrafts first. It makes no financial sense for someone to earn 5% of interest in cash investments like a fixed-term deposit when he has to pay 18% on his credit card. As a general rule, make sure consumer debts are less than 15% of take-home salary before starting on any investment scheme.

Start Saving Early and Regularly

Everyone should start saving early and regularly to make the best of compounding interest. If a bank account holder re-invests his interest payment each year instead of spending it all, he will earn interest on both the principal amount and the previous year’s interest. Over the course of a few years, the amount will snowball into a sizable figure. And that can be used as a capital to invest in bigger investment schemes. For this reason, children and young working adults should be encouraged to start saving and investing early.

Buy Units in Managed Funds

Buying shares for the long term is a good investment strategy. But for those on a low income, buying units in property and share-based managed funds is an ideal option. Try to save an initial $500 to $1000 and buy units in a managed fund. Then make monthly contributions to build up the portfolio. When there is a more substantial amount – $10,000 to $15,000 – consider buying shares directly. However, be sure to do some market research or get professional money advice first.
There are other advantages of buying units in managed funds as well. The investments are managed by experienced fund managers who diversity the assets across different sectors, reducing the risks involved while ensuring good returns.

Open a Cash Management Trust

This is another approach to use before investing in the stock market directly. Typically, an initial deposit of $1000 to $5000 will be required. While the money in the cash management trust is waiting to be invested in future shares, it will earn a higher interest rate compared to a standard bank account. Cash management trusts are also very useful for those saving for a home deposit.

Borrow to Invest

While borrowing money to pay for consumer goods (for example getting a personal loan for overseas holiday and excessive use of credit card) is frowned on, borrowing to boost investments is often deemed a sensible financial move. The term “installment gearing” refers to investing in approved managed funds regularly using the investor’s own money and money borrowed from a margin lending facility.
For instance, a new investor starts with an initial investment of $1000 in a managed fund and this is matched by another $1000 from the margin lender. After that, the investor can make a minimum monthly contribution of as little as $250 per month. And again the contribution is matched by the lender. Over time, the investor will enjoy twice as much the profit, bearing in mind that he has to pay back the loans, of course.
It is possible to start investing on low income. Having the right money attitude, discipline and knowledge is crucial. Investment tips for people with little money also include paying off consumer debts first, saving and investing early, buying units in managed funds, using a cash management trust and borrowing to invest.

Easy Way for Parents : Money Management

While generally considered a worthwhile undertaking, having children comes with a big price, quite literally. And without proper preparation and care, managing the costs of raising children is almost impossible. Here are some money management ideas for parents to ease the financial pinch and help ensure the family’s future.

Plan Household Budget

The best way to plan and keep track of family expenses is by planning a household budget. List the family income, expenses for essential items and extras and see if what is earned is more than what is spent and vice versa. If there is more spending than income, make the effort to cut down on expenses and pay off as many debts as possible.
These days, the practice of doing household budgets is made easier through many free and user-friendly online budgeting tools designed to help people start and stick to their budgets. Check out bank websites or try the Understanding Money Budget Planner.

Invest Wisely for Children

As kids grow older, the costs of taking care of them rise, especially if parents are planning to support them through to university. Saving for children’s education does have to start early. While opening a junior savings account is a good start, parents should also look into non-cash investments such as bank shares or managed funds for the children’s future.
Investing in quality shares for the long term actually smooths over losses that may have occurred over the years. So it’s sound investment when it comes to children’s education, which can take years to complete. Talk to a financial planner about investing for children if possible.

Choose Flexible Investments and Loans

Families with children are bound to be hit by unexpected expenses from time to time. So do choose investments and loans that offer flexibility and allow their investors or borrowers to access them during emergencies. For instance, invest in shares instead of an investment property so that the investments can be sold quickly in a financial emergency or choose a home loan with a redraw facility when there is an urgent need to access the surplus payments.

Have Right and Adequate Insurance Cover

Young families with financial commitments and dependants should always have the right and adequate insurance cover. Important insurance covers include life insurance, which gives the beneficiary a lump sum payment upon the death of the insurance policy holder, and income protection insurance, which can protect a certain amount of the policy holder’s income if he is unable to continue working due to illness or injury. Other insurance policies to consider are private health insurance and trauma insurance.
It’s a challenge managing the costs of raising children. To ease the financial stress, some basic money management skills for parents will help. These include acquiring the knowledge to plan a household budget, invest wisely for children, choose flexible investments and loans as well as have the right and adequate insurance.

Household Finances

Save Your Money at a different stages

People need money management skills at different stages of their lives to accommodate their current lifestyles. The financial needs and wants of a young family can be very different from those of a mature couple or retirees. But one thing is for certain – it's never too late to start saving.

Here's a quick guide on what families and individuals should be considering at various stages of their lives when in comes to money management.

Learn to Budget, Save and Invest From 20 to 30

At this age, most young people are just starting to join the workforce or have worked for a few years. Those who are money smart would have started budgeting, saving and investing for their future. They would also have learned that it's not how much they earn that matters, but how wisely they save and invest.

However, young people who haven't done any of these can begin doing the following when they are still in their 20s.
  • Set a reasonable and practical personal or household budget. Review and update it regularly as and when the financial situation changes.
  • Put aside a certain amount of money each month in a high interest saving account.
  • Young Australians should also contribute more for their superannuation.
  • Buy income protection insurance.
  • Pay attention to financial news and learn to take financial risks on growth-oriented products such as stocks and shares, and property investments.

Establish a Family and Home From 31 to 45

Many people are either in serious relationships or married with young children at these ages. The focus is invariably shifted towards home ownership and planning for children's future. Not surprisingly, family finances will revolve around boosting the household income, securing good home loans and investing for kids.
Here are more money management tips for young families.
  • Find ways to move up the corporate ladder to increase earning potential. If a spouse has to stay home to look after the kids, she can consider working from home part time or find a casual job with flexible hours.
  • Families planning on buying their first homes should learn about the different home loan options available and make good use of any government incentives available, such as the First Home Owner Grant and the First Home Saver Account in Australia.
  • Learn to manage home loans, credit card debts and other household debts effectively.
  • Invest and plan for children's education and future. Lead by example. Have good money habits and teach children about money from young.
  • Families with young children must also have ample health insurance and income protection insurance.
  • Those who can afford it should seriously consider engaging a financial planner to establish long-term financial goals and build family wealth.

Experience Financial Freedom From 46 to 60

By this time, many couples would have paid off most or all of their mortgages. The kids have grown up and might have left home too. With fewer expenses, most people can find more ways to make and save money. Now would be a good time to:
  • Make more super contributions.
  • Diversify investment portfolio or change to more secure investments. Another consideration is using the home equity to invest in other financial products.
  • Review and update insurance for health, life, disability and income protection.
  • Draw up a will or ensure proper estate planning is in place.
  • Review the family financial plan.

Enjoy the Golden Years After 60

Most people will be headed for retirement or have retired after 60. Those who have saved and invested wisely will be able to enjoy their golden years. As Australians are living longer than ever before, it's crucial for retirees or pensioners to continue practising smart money management.
  • Understand pension entitlements and make full use of age pension benefits such as pharmaceutical benefits and the Pensioner Concession Card.
  • Arrange for tax-effective income streams. One good method is to invest the superfund in a private pension. This means investing the superfund with a fund manager – exchanging the lump retirement sum for a series of regular income repayments.
  • Take good care of health and maintain good health insurance.

Money Management for Various Stages of Life

Good money habits are for life. It's never too late to save and manage money wisely. People in different stages of their lives – young couples in their 20s or 30s, families with small children, mature couples on the verge of financial freedom and retirees or pensioners – can only benefit from smart money management and investment.



Manage Money Wisely

Knowing where money goes can be a tough challenge. But having a plan and doing a budget aren’t difficult. They help get finances checked. Here are money management tips and insights to track wisely where money goes.

The Budget Planner

A budget planner is a valuable tool to manage money. It can be weekly, fortnightly or monthly guide. Once the period has been decided, all the numbers or entries written down are for the same time period. It's also important for partners to agree on what they want to do with money. Therefore, it is good to prepare a budget together.
The actual income and expenses should be written down. Once these two factors are realistically worked out, result is taken by subtracting the total expenses from the total income, which is a straightforward formula. What is more significant from financial planning perspective is seeing the result: the regular total income coming in and where the money goes (total expenses).

Spending Money Wisely

Here's the question: Is the result from the budget planner the one expected? The budget can show areas where changes in spending can be effected. One suggestion in sorting out expenses is to group into two, essentials and non-essentials.

Spending can be reduced in the non-essentials. If there's money left over, money should be spent wisely. This is where debt management comes into play, that is, to get debt under control. Some options where the "extra" money can be used are increase in credit card repayments or loan, or organizing a deduction for an investment account or separate savings.

More Tips How to Spend Money Wisely

    * Avoid buying take away for lunch, take lunch to work
    * Consider pre-paid options for personal mobile or cell phone
    * Leave credit card at home
    * Prepare a shopping list and stick to a limit

Setting Goals

It's difficult to have a budget if there's no plan what to do with the money. Setting goals will lead to what's being worked towards. Goals must be realistic, specific, and motivating enough for time frame to be followed. They can also have some dependencies like commitments and age, among others. Some of these commitments are:
    * Getting debt under control
    * Saving for a home deposit
    * Savings for retirement
    * Providing for Unexpected Expenses (to avoid using credit card or a personal loan)
    * Other Savings

By using the budget planner, it can be worked out how much money has been left after expenses and how long it will take to get the amount needed, to save for those deposits.
Teaching Children about Money

For families who have children, parents should teach them the basics of money. Here are some tips to help kids:
    * Encourage them to save regularly and as much as possible.
    * Set an example by managing money well.
    * Set up a savings account with a passbook to help them keep track of transactions in terms of deposit, withdrawal and interest they earn.
    * Make savings fun by letting the kids choose their own realistic goals

Change being inevitable, it's advisable to revisit budget and goals regularly in order to reflect changes, perhaps twice a year, or when necessary.




3 Steps to Manage Money with create Budget

Step 1:  Calculate your monthly household income.
Monthly income includes:
    * What's left of your paycheck AFTER taxes and deductions.  Deductions may include insurance and retirement plan contributions, among other things.
    * Cash benefits from Social Security payments, temporary assistance for needy families (TANF), and other public assistance programs.
    * Additional earnings from alimony payments, a part-time job, or other income sources.

Step 2: Calculate your monthly household expenses.
    * An easy way to track expenses without trying to remember what you bought or locating last month's receipts is to keep a spending journal.  In the journal, write down every purchase you make or bill you pay for one month.  At the end of the month, calculate the total amount you spent.  You should organize your spending into two categories:
          o Fixed expenses (expenses that you must pay each month), such as rent, car payments, heat, etc.
          o Flexible expenses (expenses that change month to month), such as entertainment, clothing, food, etc.

Step 3: Subtract total expenses from total income.
    * If you have money left over, consider saving it in a bank account
    * If your expenses are greater than your income, you'll need to determine how you can reduce expenses or increase income.
   * If you're in debt and can't seem to solve the problem, speak with a Financial Empowerment Center counselor.

5 Tips to Manage Money with Spending Smart

Here are five tips to help you stretch your dollars and even save them by spending wisely.

1. Make a shopping list and stick to it.
One of the top reasons why people overspend is because they don't have clear goals to guide them when entering stores.  Make a shopping list of only what you need to buy and stick to it.

2.Avoid impulse purchases.
When you see something you "must have" that is not on your shopping list, pause for a moment and ask yourself if you really "need" the item.  Think over any impulse purchase for at least two days to make sure you can afford it.  If it is a purchase that requires a loan agreement, ask for a copy of the terms and conditions to review fully at home before signing anything.  Newly released items have big price tags, but prices usually drop as time passes because trends and demand fade.  By avoiding impulse purchases, you'll save money - either by not buying the item at all or buying it at a lower cost later on if you find that you really need it.

3. Shop at more than one store.
When you're in a store, you will be tempted to buy an item right there and then, but visit a few different stores to see if you can get a better deal.  You may want to try carrying a notebook to jot down the prices to review and compare.

4. Buy quality products if you intend to use items for a long time.
Even though quality products can come with a higher price tag, consider them a smart investment.  You're paying a little more for something that will last longer.  If you buy a lower quality item, you may need to replace it often - which can cost more than the higher quality item in the long run.  Setting aside a little money each month can help you save enough to buy the quality item.  If it is an item you think you will use only a few times, see if a friend or family member has it available for you to borrow.
For example, if you are on a softball team and play often, it's best to buy a quality glove versus a lower quality glove that might break apart easily.  However, if you know your playing time will be limited, then borrow a glove or buy a cheaper one.

5. Use coupons wisely
Coupons are a great way to save money, whether it's 15¢ off a shampoo you use or $20 off a $100 clothing purchase at your favorite store.  The only catch is that you could be spending money on something you don't need just because you have a coupon.  Check your shopping list to see if you need the item featured in a coupon before buying something that might break your budget. 

How to Manage Finance

Financial Management is Planning, directing, monitoring, organizing, and controlling of the monetary resources of an organization.
1. Planning
Basic management function involving formulation of one or more detailed plans to achieve optimum balance of needs or demands with the available resources.
The planning process (1) identifies the goals or objectives to be achieved, (2) formulates strategies to achieve them, (3) arranges or creates the means required, and (4) implements, directs, and monitors all steps in their proper sequence.
2. Directing
Management function that includes building an effective work climate and creating opportunity for motivation, supervising, scheduling, and disciplining.
3. Monitoring
Supervising activities in progress to ensure they are on-course and on-schedule in meeting the objectives and performance targets.
4. Organizing
a. Arranging several elements into a purposeful sequential or spatial (or both) order or structure.
b. Assembling required resources to attain organizational objectives.
5. Controlling
Management function of (1) establishing benchmarks or standards, (2) comparing actual performance against them, and (3) taking corrective action, if required.
6. Monetary Resources
Economic or productive factor required to accomplish an activity, or as means to undertake an enterprise and achieve desired outcome. Three most basic resources are land, labor, and capital; other resources include energy, entrepreneurship, information, know how, management, and time.

What is HOT MONEY ?

1. General: Alternative term for discretionary income.
Discretionary income is portion of an entity's income available for saving, or spending on non-essentials. It is what remains after expenses for basics (such as food, clothing, shelter, utilities) and prior commitments (such as school fees and loans) are deducted from the disposable income. Total amount of discretionary income in an economy is a key indicator of the level of possible economic growth and is the target of all commercial advertising.
2. International finance: Extremely volatile short-term capital that moves on a short notice to any country providing better returns. Powerful speculators can quickly pump massive sums into a high-yield economy, giving it an artificial aura of success and propriety. But, on a mere suspicion of a downturn or other negative factor, they can (and do) withdraw it almost overnight causing a near collapse of the country's financial structure.
3. Local finance: Money obtained through illegal means such as drug trafficking. Also called dirty money (money that needs money laundering for it to be used in normal business transactions).

What is INVESTMENT ?

Investment is money committed or property acquired for future income, also trade off between risk and reward while aiming for incremental gain and preservation of the invested amountprincipal. Incontrast, speculation aims at high gain or heavy loss and gambling at out of proportion gain or total loss. Two main classes investment are :
1. Fixed income investment such as bonds, fixed deposits, preference shares.
2. Variable income investment such as business ownership (equities), property ownership. In ecomnomics, investment means creations of capital or goods capable of producing other goods or services. Expenditure on educationhealth is recognized as an investment in human capital, and research and development in intelectual capital. Return on investment (ROI) is a key measure of a firms's performance.

1. Investment Analysis
Examination and assessment of economic and market trends, earnings prospects, earnings ratios, and various other indicators and factors to determine suitable investment strategies.
2. Investment Income
Capital gains, dividends, interest, and rent generated by investment, and not by trading activities. Also called unearned income, investment income is generally taxable.
3. Investment Instruments
Alternative term for financing instrument (document such as a share certificate, promissory note, or bond, used as means to acquire equity capital or loan capital.)
4.  Investment Project
Long-term allocation of funds (with or without recourse to the project's sponsor) to carry an investment idea through to its stable-income generation stage. A viable investment project aims at achieving a profitable return that ensures (1) timely payment of interest and principal, (2) attractive return on the invested capital, and (3) positive and consistent cash flows
5. Investment Property
Asset purchased and held primarily for its future appreciation or income, such as collectibles, land, securities, works of art.
6. Investment Recovery
Alternative term for asset recovery (selling off or disposing off obsolete, scrap, surplus, or waste goods or material in a manner that maximizes the return while minimizing the costs and liabilities.)

What Is MONEY ?

WHAT IS MONEY ?
Anything of value thas serves as generally accepted medium of financial exchange, legal tender for repayment of debt, standard of value, unit of accounting measure, and means to save or store purchasing power. In common usage : cash.



1. Money at Call
Alternative term for loan (such as an overdraft) with or without a fixed maturity date, but which can be recalled anytime (often on a 24 hour notice) by the lender and must be paid in full on the date of demand. Also, the borrower can pay off a demand loan at any time without incurring early payment penalties. Also called call loan or money at call.

2. Money Illusion
Belief that monye (specifically, a currency) represent a constant value.
Curency is tokens used as money in a country. In addition to the metal coins and paper bank notes, modern currency also includes checks drawn on bank accounts, money orders, travelers checks, and will soon include electronic money or digital cash.

3. Money Market Account (MMA)
Special savings-account which pays fluctuating interest rate that, on average, is higher than the interest rate on ordinary savings accounts. However, a certain minium credit balance must be maintained in an MMA , and only a limited number of checks can be written on it in a month although, usually, there is no limit on transfer of funds over the bank's counter or through automated teller machines (ATM). An MMA balance is covered under deposit insurance like an ordinary savings account balance.






4. Money Market Certificate (MMC)
US non-negotiable certificate of deposit (CD) with a minimum denomination of $2,500 and minimum original maturity of seven days, paying an interest rate set by the issuing financial institution.



5. Money Market Instruments
Short-term (Usually one year or less, often used to refer to bonds or loans. opposite of long-term.), high grade (low risk) financial instruments such as bankers' acceptance, certificates of deposit (CDs), commercial paper, and treasury bills.

6. Money Market Investment
Short-term (typical maturity is less than one year), highly liquid government or corporate debt instrument (such as bankers' acceptance, promissory notes, treasury bills) traded in money markets.


7.Money Market Fund (MMF)
Alternative term for money market mutual fund (MMF).
Open ended mutual fund that invests in highly liquid short-term financial instruments (with maturities typically 90 days to less than one year) such as negotiable certificates of deposit (CDs), commercial paper, and treasury bills; and pays money market account (MMA) rates of interest. MMFs differ from other mutual funds in that their market value remains constant at $1 per share, only the interest rate paid by them fluctuates. They also offer check writing privileges, but are not protected under the deposit insurance schemes. Also called money market mutual fund.

8. Money Market Rate
Interest rate on money market instruments.
Annual cost of credit or debt-capital computed as the percentage ratio of interest to the principal. Each bank can determine its own interest rate on loans but, in practice, local rates are about the same from bank to bank. In general, interest rates rise in times of inflation, greater demand for credit, tight money supply, or due to higher reserve requirements for banks. A rise in interest rates for any reason tends to dampen business activity (because credit becomes more expensive) and the stockmarket (because investors can get better returns from bank deposits or newly issued bonds than from buying shares).