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What Young People Can Teach Their Grandparents About Money

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Here Is What Young People Can Teach Their Grandparents About Money

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Money moves fast these days, and it’s not just the stock market doing the sprinting. Young people have grown up in a whirlwind of apps, subscriptions, and digital wallets, and they’re running laps around traditional ways of managing money. Grandparents may have decades of experience, but sometimes experience needs a little turbo boost from the new generation.

From budgeting hacks to investing shortcuts, the lessons flow both ways—but today, it’s the younger crowd in the driver’s seat.

1. Digital Wallets Are Not Just Fancy Gadgets

Grandparents might still be fumbling with checkbooks, but young people are turning phones into personal banks. Apps like Venmo, Cash App, and Apple Pay make splitting bills, sending gifts, and paying rent feel like a casual text conversation. Digital wallets also track spending automatically, giving insights that even the most meticulous ledger can’t match. No more digging through piles of receipts or wondering where the money went at the end of the month. This isn’t magic—it’s technology making life easier, and grandparents can totally catch up.

2. Subscription Services Can Break Or Make Your Budget

Streaming, gaming, software, even meal kits—there’s a subscription for almost everything today. Young people have mastered the art of managing multiple subscriptions without bleeding cash. They know which services they actually use, which ones are worth canceling, and how to snag deals without overspending. Teaching grandparents to audit recurring charges can be a game-changer for saving money without feeling deprived. Awareness and smart canceling can transform a bloated monthly bill into a streamlined, stress-free financial plan.

3. Investing Isn’t Just For The Suits

Stocks, crypto, ETFs, robo-advisors—investment used to sound like Wall Street jargon. But young people are shaking things up, showing that anyone can start small and grow wealth over time. Micro-investing apps and fractional shares let beginners invest without needing a fortune upfront. Grandparents can learn the thrill of compounding, the patience of long-term growth, and even a little risk management from the younger generation. It’s proof that investing isn’t intimidating—it’s just a new kind of fun puzzle.

4. Side Hustles Are A Real Thing

Back in the day, a steady 9-to-5 was the path to security. Today, young people are flipping skills into cash with side hustles—freelancing, gig work, online tutoring, or even selling creations on Etsy. They understand that money doesn’t only come from one source, and that multiple streams can lead to financial freedom. Grandparents can take notes on diversifying income without overcomplicating life. Sometimes, learning how to monetize a hobby or skill is the spark that turns financial anxiety into empowerment.

5. Saving Can Be Fun And Creative

Young people don’t just stash money under the mattress—they gamify it. Round-up apps, automatic transfers, and reward-based savings make putting money aside feel satisfying rather than painful. Grandparents can learn that saving isn’t about denial; it’s about creating a system that works with your lifestyle. Visual progress trackers and challenges turn boring budgets into exciting financial missions. It’s a shift in mindset that proves money management can actually be enjoyable.

Here Is What Young People Can Teach Their Grandparents About Money

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6. The Power Of Financial Community

Social media isn’t just for memes and cat videos—it’s a financial classroom in disguise. Young people exchange tips, celebrate milestones, and learn from mistakes in ways that are public and collaborative. Grandparents can see the value of discussing money openly instead of keeping it private and isolating. Forums, apps, and groups create accountability and encouragement that textbooks never could. Learning to lean on a community can turn intimidating financial decisions into shared adventures.

7. Tech Tools Make Tracking Everything Easier

Spreadsheets are fine, but apps are faster, smarter, and sometimes downright fun. Young people rely on technology to monitor spending, set goals, and forecast future finances effortlessly. Notifications, charts, and alerts replace the stress of forgotten bills or missed payments. Grandparents can adopt these tools to regain control without spending hours on tedious paperwork. Once the fear of “tech overwhelm” fades, the convenience and clarity are addictive.

8. Mindset Matters As Much As Money

Finally, young people bring a refreshing attitude to finances: curiosity over fear, experimentation over stagnation. They see mistakes as lessons and aren’t afraid to try new methods. Grandparents can learn that money isn’t just numbers—it’s a mindset game. Being open to change and new ideas often leads to more opportunities and less stress. In essence, financial wisdom is less about age and more about adaptability.

Generational Money Lessons Go Both Ways

Learning about money doesn’t stop at any age. Young people can teach grandparents digital tricks, investing strategies, and creative saving methods, while grandparents provide wisdom, patience, and perspective. When generations combine experience with innovation, money management becomes more dynamic, effective, and even exciting.

Have you experienced a moment where someone younger taught you a financial tip that blew your mind? Drop your thoughts or stories in the comments section.

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Regulation Alert: 9 Proposed Rules Every Investor Should Watch in 2026

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There Are Numerous Proposed Rules Every Investor Should Watch in 2026

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Investing in 2026 is shaping up to be more exciting—and a bit more complicated—than ever.

Regulators are proposing a wave of new rules that could shake up markets, influence trading strategies, and make investors rethink the way they approach risk. For those of us who love watching the market evolve, these proposals are like a thrilling financial thriller unfolding in real time.

Some rules might tighten restrictions, others could open new doors, and all of them deserve a closer look if you want to stay ahead.

1. Enhanced Disclosure Requirements For ESG Investments

Environmental, social, and governance (ESG) investing has been growing at lightning speed, but regulators want more transparency. Proposed rules aim to require companies to provide detailed reports on how their operations truly align with ESG claims. Investors could see standardized metrics for carbon footprints, diversity initiatives, and corporate governance practices. This could help weed out companies that are greenwashing or making misleading social claims. For savvy investors, understanding these disclosures early could become a competitive advantage.

2. Mandatory Real-Time Trade Reporting For Retail Investors

Imagine knowing exactly what’s happening in the market as it happens. Regulators are considering rules that would expand real-time trade reporting beyond institutional players to include retail activity. This could mean more transparency in price movements and fewer surprises for everyday investors. On the flip side, it might also create new volatility or strategic behavior from high-frequency traders. Investors will need to watch for how this could affect liquidity and pricing on popular stocks.

3. New Limits On Derivative Leverage

Derivatives have always been thrilling and terrifying at the same time. Proposed rules in 2026 are looking at restricting the leverage available for certain derivative trades. The goal is to curb systemic risk and prevent wild swings that can cascade through markets. While this could reduce extreme losses, it might also limit potential upside for risk-tolerant investors. Staying informed about which instruments are affected could be critical for those with aggressive portfolios.

4. Stricter Guidelines On Crypto Asset Custody

Cryptocurrencies are here to stay, but regulators aren’t taking chances. Proposed regulations aim to strengthen custody rules for crypto assets, focusing on security, insurance, and operational transparency. Investors may see stricter standards for exchanges and wallet providers to protect against hacks or mismanagement. While this could increase investor confidence, it might also raise the cost of participation in digital assets. Understanding the evolving landscape will be key for those balancing traditional and crypto portfolios.

There Are Numerous Proposed Rules Every Investor Should Watch in 2026

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5. Expanded Requirements For Proxy Voting Transparency

Corporate governance is entering a new era of accountability. Proposed rules could require mutual funds, ETFs, and institutional investors to disclose how they vote proxies on shareholder issues. This means everyday investors might get a clearer view of how their money influences corporate decisions. Transparency in proxy voting could lead to more engagement and potentially reshape executive behavior. Keeping an eye on these proposals could help investors align their portfolios with their values more effectively.

6. Increased Oversight Of Short Selling Activities

Short selling has always had a flair for drama, and regulators want to keep it under closer watch. Proposed 2026 rules may include more frequent reporting, stricter disclosure requirements, and tighter borrowing regulations. These changes aim to prevent market manipulation and reduce volatility spikes. While short sellers may see more compliance burdens, ordinary investors might gain more insight into market sentiment. Understanding these rules could provide strategic advantages for both long and short positions.

7. New Guidelines For Retail Advisory Fees

Advisory fees have long been a point of contention, and regulators are looking to clarify what is reasonable. Proposed rules may require financial advisors to provide clearer breakdowns of fees, including hidden costs and third-party arrangements. The goal is to ensure investors know exactly what they’re paying for advice. This could help retail investors make more informed decisions about where to allocate assets. Savvy investors could use this transparency to negotiate better terms or seek lower-cost alternatives.

8. Expanded Cybersecurity Standards For Financial Institutions

In an era where digital breaches make headlines weekly, regulators are focused on cybersecurity. Proposed rules could mandate more robust systems for protecting customer data, monitoring cyber threats, and reporting incidents quickly. Investors could see enhanced safeguards for their accounts and more confidence in online transactions. While these standards may increase operational costs for institutions, the benefit is a safer investing environment. Being aware of these requirements can help investors evaluate which institutions are taking security seriously.

9. Standardized Risk Metrics For Mutual Funds And ETFs

Understanding risk is fundamental, but comparing funds has often been messy. Proposed rules in 2026 aim to create standardized risk metrics for mutual funds and ETFs. This could make it easier for investors to assess volatility, drawdowns, and exposure to various market factors. Consistency in reporting would allow better apples-to-apples comparisons when building a diversified portfolio. Investors who track these metrics closely could make smarter choices and avoid hidden pitfalls.

Stay Ahead Or Play Catch-Up

The 2026 regulatory landscape is shaping up to be both challenging and exciting for investors. From ESG disclosures to crypto custody and risk metrics, each proposed rule has the potential to influence market behavior in meaningful ways. Staying informed isn’t optional—it’s essential if you want to maintain an edge. By keeping an eye on these proposals and understanding their implications, investors can make strategic adjustments rather than scrambling reactively.

Have you noticed any of these regulatory trends affecting your investments, or do you have predictions for how they’ll play out? Let’s hear about it.

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11 Cryptocurrencies Your Advisor Doesn’t Want You Researching Alone

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There Are Certain Cryptocurrencies Your Advisor Doesn't Want You Researching Alone

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There’s no doubt that it’s thrilling to scroll through the world of cryptocurrencies—like you’ve stumbled into a digital Wild West filled with glittering promises, confusing jargon, and enough volatility to give even the bravest investor heart palpitations. Advisors often prefer you stick to the “safe and simple stuff,” but let’s be honest: the lesser-known corners of crypto are where the real intrigue lives. Some coins come with bold missions, wild communities, or technology that feels like it was smuggled out of the future. Other coins? Well, they’re the financial equivalent of petting a tiger because it “looks friendly.”

Whether you’re exploring out of curiosity or hunting for the next big story to tell at brunch, these are the cryptos you’ll want to handle with both fascination and caution.

1. Bitcoin Cash

Bitcoin Cash often sparks debates that sound more like family drama than finance because it was born from a major ideological split in the original Bitcoin community. Supporters swear it’s the truer version of what Bitcoin was meant to be, thanks to its faster transaction speeds. Critics argue it’s living perpetually in Bitcoin’s shadow, struggling to form its own identity. That tension alone makes it a fascinating coin to dig into, but it also means you need to understand the history behind the split to make sense of it. Advisors know this rabbit hole is deep, emotional, and fiercely opinionated.

There Are Certain Cryptocurrencies Your Advisor Doesn't Want You Researching Alone

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2. Cardano

Cardano has a loyal fanbase that treats its roadmap like it belongs in a museum display, complete with phases named after famous poets and computer scientists. This coin prides itself on academic rigor, meaning upgrades take time, research, and more peer review than most college dissertations. Investors are drawn to its slow-and-steady vibe, which contrasts sharply with the “move fast and break things” energy of other cryptos. But that careful pace can frustrate newcomers who want flashier action or quicker news cycles. Your advisor probably knows you’ll lose a weekend watching Cardano explainer videos without coming up for air.

3. Solana

Solana is fast—so fast that people joke it’s trying to win a race no one else signed up for. Its ability to process an enormous number of transactions quickly made it a darling in the crypto world almost overnight. But its history also includes a handful of network outages that critics love to bring up at every opportunity. Fans argue that these hiccups are expected when building something this futuristic, while skeptics insist reliability trumps speed. One deep dive into its community arguments, and you’ll understand why your advisor stays neutral.

4. Polkadot

Polkadot isn’t just a cryptocurrency—it’s an entire concept about connecting blockchains into one big harmonious universe. The vision is ambitious enough to make even veteran developers squint with both admiration and caution. Its “parachain” system is complex, brilliant, and occasionally overwhelming to newcomers who simply wanted to know what the logo meant. But learning how Polkadot works is like learning how your favorite gadgets communicate behind the scenes—it’s mesmerizing if you’re patient. Advisors know the complexity can lead curious minds down a vortex of endless reading.

5. Avalanche

Avalanche bursts onto conversations whenever people talk about speed, scalability, or creative blockchain applications. It’s a chain that prides itself on doing everything efficiently, from running decentralized apps to enabling custom blockchains. Some enthusiasts view it as the infrastructure of the future, while others wonder if it’s trying to do too much at once. That blend of innovation and uncertainty attracts the boldest explorers. Your advisor knows it’s tempting to believe Avalanche is the future—and equally easy to get overwhelmed by its possibilities.

6. Chainlink

Chainlink isn’t flashy, but it is essential—it’s the quiet genius enabling blockchains to talk to the outside world through what’s known as oracles. Some people call it the plumbing of the crypto industry, but not in a boring way; it’s the kind of plumbing that makes skyscrapers possible. Because it solves such a specific problem, Chainlink has become a favorite among developers and early adopters. However, its usefulness is hard to grasp until you understand what smart contracts can’t do alone. Advisors know this coin inspires late-night Googling sessions that lead to more questions than answers.

7. VeChain

VeChain’s mission is all about supply chains, authenticity, and getting companies to track items in ways that prevent fraud. Heartwarming? Yes. Simple? Not even a little. The moment you dive into how it partners with businesses, tracks goods, and manages data, you realize it’s a lot bigger than it seems. Its long-term potential is interesting, but its real-world applications make the research surprisingly dense. Advisors know that once you start looking at VeChain use cases, you might start checking the legitimacy of your groceries for fun.

8. Algorand

Algorand’s entire identity revolves around elegant, eco-friendly solutions and fast, reliable transactions. It has a founder with serious academic credibility, which automatically raises the stakes for what the coin promises. The technology is genuinely impressive, and its commitment to efficiency has earned it a reputation as a “next-gen” blockchain. But because it tries to solve so many issues at once, understanding it requires more than casual curiosity. Advisors know that people researching Algorand often emerge more excited—but also mildly overwhelmed.

9. Tezos

Tezos is that coin with a cult following and a brainy spirit, built around the idea of self-upgrading technology. It’s designed to evolve without causing massive disruptions, which is a brilliant concept—but also a complicated one to grasp fully. Its governance model fascinates people who love the idea of community-driven innovation. But diving into its voting systems, upgrades, and proposals can feel like getting a backstage pass to blockchain politics. Advisors know that Tezos research tends to escalate quickly into passionate debates.

10. Stellar

Stellar’s focus on fast, inexpensive global transactions sounds simple on the surface, but the ecosystem is surprisingly layered. It aims to connect financial institutions, individuals, and cross-border partners in ways that feel almost futuristic. Some people see it as the bridge between old-school finance and blockchain tech. Others view it as a competitor to traditional remittance services. Advisors know you might go looking for basic info and end up researching international banking systems at midnight.

11. Filecoin

Filecoin’s mission sounds like science fiction: decentralized data storage where anyone can rent out space on their computer. It challenges the way we think about cloud services and digital information security. Because it’s built on incentives and a massive network, the technology behind it is both thrilling and complex. It’s the kind of crypto that sparks curiosity, especially among tech enthusiasts. Advisors know Filecoin inspires big ideas—but those ideas can turn into deep dives that last far longer than planned.

Research Carefully, Explore Boldly

Each of these cryptocurrencies carries its own mix of innovation, hype, complexity, and potential—but also risks that deserve careful attention. Your advisor may prefer you stick to familiar names, but curiosity is part of what makes crypto fascinating. The key is to explore with a clear head, plenty of patience, and a willingness to learn more than you planned.

If you’ve researched any of these or have stories, thoughts, or warnings from your crypto adventures, drop them in the comments below and share your journey. You never know who your insights might help.

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The Gemini Lie: 8 Reasons You Shouldn’t Be Investing In Gemini

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With more people eyeing cryptocurrency as a way to grow their money, the choices for crypto exchanges seem endless. Gemini, a well-known platform, frequently appears in discussions about where to buy and store digital currencies. But is it really the best place for your hard-earned cash? The truth is, investing in Gemini comes with risks that many overlook. Before you trust your money to this exchange, it’s important to get the full picture. Here are eight reasons why investing in Gemini may not be the smart move you think it is.

1. Regulatory Challenges

Gemini has faced a fair share of regulatory scrutiny over the years. Governments around the world are still figuring out how to handle cryptocurrency exchanges, and Gemini is no exception. Even though the company claims to follow rules, regulations can change quickly. This uncertainty puts your investments at risk. If Gemini faces legal action or stricter oversight, your funds could get caught in the crossfire. Investing in Gemini means trusting that the platform will keep up with shifting laws—and that’s a big gamble.

2. Security Breaches Are Still a Threat

Crypto exchanges are prime targets for hackers, and Gemini is not immune. While the company markets itself as a secure platform, no exchange is completely safe. Even minor breaches can lead to major losses for users. If you are investing in Gemini, you are putting faith in their security systems. History shows that even the most reputable exchanges have been hacked before. If Gemini ever suffers a breach, your assets could be gone in a flash, with little chance of recovery.

3. High Fees Eat Into Profits

One of the hidden downsides of investing in Gemini is the fee structure. The platform charges higher fees than many competitors, especially for small transactions. Over time, these fees add up and chip away at your returns. For beginners and small investors, this can make a big difference. You might not notice the costs right away, but they quietly erode your profits. If you’re serious about maximizing gains, these fees can be a dealbreaker.

4. Limited Coin Selection

Gemini offers fewer cryptocurrencies compared to other major exchanges. If you want to diversify your portfolio or explore up-and-coming tokens, you might be disappointed. Investing in Gemini means sticking to a relatively short list of coins. This limitation can stifle your investment strategy and keep you from seizing new opportunities. Other platforms provide a broader selection, giving you more ways to grow your money in the crypto world.

5. Customer Service Complaints

User experiences with Gemini’s customer service are mixed at best. Many investors have reported slow response times and unhelpful answers when problems arise. If your account is locked or you encounter a withdrawal issue, you could be left waiting for days—or even weeks—for help. Investing in Gemini means accepting the risk that you might not get the support you need when it matters most. In the fast-moving world of crypto, delays and poor communication can cost you real money.

6. Opaque Business Practices

Transparency is crucial when choosing where to invest. Unfortunately, Gemini doesn’t always make its business practices clear. Details about how they manage funds, handle liquidity, or protect against market manipulation are often vague. This lack of openness can leave investors feeling uneasy. If you are investing in Gemini, you’re relying on the company’s word rather than transparent, verifiable facts. That’s a risky position to be in when your money is on the line.

7. Recent Legal Troubles

Gemini has been named in several lawsuits and regulatory investigations. These legal issues often revolve around compliance, transparency, or alleged mishandling of funds. Even if the company is ultimately cleared, the process can shake user confidence and impact the platform’s stability. Investing in Gemini during times of legal uncertainty means your funds could be frozen or inaccessible.

8. Better Alternatives Exist

The crypto landscape is full of exchanges with lower fees, wider coin selections, and stronger reputations for customer service. Platforms like Coinbase and Kraken offer features that Gemini lacks, including advanced trading tools and robust educational resources. If you’re investing in Gemini, you might be missing out on better options. Don’t settle for less when there are safer and more cost-effective choices available.

Think Twice Before Investing in Gemini

At first glance, Gemini may seem like a solid choice for crypto investing. But when you look closer, the risks start to pile up. From regulatory uncertainty and high fees to limited coin options and shaky customer support, there are many reasons to reconsider. The recent legal troubles and lack of transparency make things even murkier. Ultimately, investing in Gemini could expose your money to unnecessary risk. It’s worth weighing these factors carefully before making a decision.

Have you had experience investing in Gemini? What concerns or successes have you had with the platform? Share your thoughts below!

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Are These 6 Trending Jobs Just a Rebranded Pyramid Scheme?

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The job market is always changing. New roles pop up every year, promising big money and flexible hours. But sometimes, these “opportunities” sound a little too good to be true. You might see friends posting about their new side hustle or get a message from someone you barely know, asking if you want to “join their team.” It’s easy to get curious. But it’s also easy to get burned. Some of these trending jobs look a lot like old-school pyramid schemes, just with a fresh coat of paint. Here’s what you need to know before you sign up.

1. Social Media Brand Ambassadors

You’ve probably seen posts from people selling beauty products, supplements, or fitness gear. They call themselves “brand ambassadors.” The pitch is simple: buy a starter kit, post about the products, and recruit others to do the same. The more people you bring in, the more you earn. But here’s the catch—most of the money comes from recruiting, not selling. If you have to pay upfront and your main job is to sign up new sellers, you’re not building a business. You’re feeding a system that only works if more people keep joining. This is a classic sign of a pyramid scheme. If you’re thinking about becoming a brand ambassador, ask yourself: would you make money if you didn’t recruit anyone? If the answer is no, walk away.

2. Crypto Investment Clubs

Crypto is everywhere. People talk about making fast money with Bitcoin or the latest coin. Some groups invite you to join their “investment club.” They promise high returns if you put in cash and get others to join. The more people you bring, the bigger your cut. But these clubs often have no real investment strategy. They just move money from new members to old ones. When new recruits dry up, the whole thing collapses. The Federal Trade Commission has warned about these crypto pyramid schemes. If you’re asked to pay to join and recruit others, be careful. Real investments don’t need you to bring in friends to make money.

3. Online Course “Coaches”

There’s a boom in online courses. Some people call themselves “coaches” and offer to teach you how to get rich. They say you can earn thousands by selling their course to others. But here’s the trick: you pay a big fee to join, then you’re told to sell the same course to new people. Your income depends on recruiting, not teaching. This is a pyramid scheme in disguise. Real education businesses make money from students’ learning, not from endless recruiting. If you’re considering a coaching role, ensure the focus is on developing real skills rather than merely recruiting more sellers. If it’s the latter, it’s not a real job.

4. Dropshipping “Mentorships”

Dropshipping sounds easy. You sell products online without holding inventory. Some “mentors” offer to teach you the secrets for a fee. But many of these mentorships are just about selling the mentorship itself. You pay to join, then you’re told to recruit others and earn a cut of their fees. The actual dropshipping advice is often basic or outdated. The real money is in getting more people to buy the mentorship. If you’re paying for a program that pushes you to recruit, not sell products, it’s a red flag. Real dropshipping businesses focus on customers, not endless recruiting.

5. Health and Wellness MLMs

Multi-level marketing (MLM) companies in health and wellness are everywhere. They sell shakes, oils, or supplements. You join by buying a starter kit, then you’re told to recruit others. The promise is that you’ll earn passive income as your “downline” grows. But most people in MLMs lose money. A report from the FTC shows that over 99% of participants don’t turn a profit. If your main job is to sign up new sellers, not sell products to real customers, you’re in a pyramid scheme. Before joining, ask for real income data and talk to people who’ve left the company.

6. “Passive Income” App Promoters

Some apps claim you can earn passive income by sharing them with friends. You download the app, pay a fee, and get paid when others sign up through your link. The more people you recruit, the more you earn. But the money comes from new sign-ups, not from the app’s actual service. When recruiting slows down, so does your income. This is just a digital version of a pyramid scheme. If an app’s main selling point is recruiting, not the product itself, it’s a warning sign. Real apps make money from users, not from endless referrals.

How to Spot a Pyramid Scheme in Disguise

It’s easy to get excited about new ways to make money. But if a job or side hustle focuses more on recruiting than on real work or sales, be careful. Pyramid schemes don’t last. They leave most people with empty pockets and broken promises. Always ask: Where does the money come from? Would you earn anything without recruiting? If the answer is no, it’s time to move on. Protect your time and your wallet. There are real jobs out there that don’t rely on endless recruiting.

Have you ever been pitched one of these trending jobs? What was your experience? Share your story in the comments.

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Four Tips For Avoiding Cryptocurrency Scams

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The demand for cryptocurrency has become a global craze today, creating more opportunities for scammers. Whether you’re an experienced or new trader, you might fall into a cryptocurrency scam when you’re not careful. Therefore, you could lose a lot or even all of your hard-earned investment or assets.

Investing in cryptos has now become a trend worldwide. Scammers now have many ways to encourage or pursue people to fall into their schemes with the advent of technology. 

Here are some ways to combat or avoid cryptocurrency scams:

Be Careful Of The Apps You’re Installing

Because apps have many functions and provide several benefits to their users, crypto scammers use them to mimic other apps and use them to their advantage. If you fail to see the warning signs of these fake apps, you’re at risk of having your vital information stolen from you. 

For instance, they may have mimicked a crypto trading app. When you’re not careful, you may install and use it without knowing the danger it can cause you. It may work at first, but the app could steal your cryptocurrencies in no time. This is possible when hackers present you with an address to send your payments or receive your funds. However, you may be sending your funds or cryptos to the fraudster’s crypto wallet address instead. You can’t undo such transactions, so you’re left feeling helpless when this happens. 

Hence, you should always check the publisher’s credentials when downloading from the Google Play Store or Apple Store apps to avoid such scams. For example, you may look at here now if you want to download an Australian crypto exchange. You may also download a given link from a trusted source or the app developer’s official website.

Learn About Crypto Pyramid Schemes

Some fraudsters may show that their new ‘crypto’ is steadily gaining value by running a website. Unfortunately, they can make fake ‘real-time transaction logs’ or ‘mining and trading’ activity appear legit. They may even ‘prove’ that the crypto investors are doing well by showing regular payouts. These are all ways to encourage you to join the craze as one of their investors. 

When you make an account and invest in them, they’re more likely to create fake growth of your initial investment. It may show your gains and the period limit you should withdraw them. 

However, your earnings may come from the funds of other investors. This means they’re using other investors’ money to create interests or dividends on your account. Thus, the crypto you thought was yours could be a nonexistent fund. This scam is popularly known as Ponzi or pyramid scheme, named after Charles Ponzi, a con artist and swindler in the 1920s (per wikipedia).

What you can do to avoid such is to ensure that crypto exists. You must research the crypto you intend to invest your money in, its founders, and its utility. Look at third-party websites, such as this site that helps people check if crypto project is a scam, or review sites to determine their legitimacy. If you can’t find one or only see one or two review articles about it, your best course is to avoid it right away.

Don’t Fall For Giveaway Scams

Fraudsters also use the names of influencers or celebrities. They’ll try to promote their crypto offerings using famous personalities to organize fake giveaways. Some even use fake accounts to respond to the giveaway post so that it would appear legit. 

In this scheme, you may see a QR code or link to a website where you’ll enter your credentials to participate. They may ask for your crypto wallet address for ‘verification’ purposes before they can send you the ‘giveaway,’ which we all know would never come any day soon.

Hence, if the giveaway seems too good to be true, disregard it altogether. Moreover, never enter your wallet address in such cases. Legit crypto companies will never ask for your crypto-wallet information.

Picture of a man whose cryptocurrency wallet has been stolen.,

Read About Initial Coin Offering (ICO) Scams

The ICO is like a stock’s initial public offering where founders will outsource funds to support their crypto project or development. As an investor, you will receive the issuance of such cryptos in exchange for the funds you pledged. 

Some ICOs may not come from well-established companies. Hence, you should see if the company has any operating history or perform a background check on the management team and developers of the ICOs. It may be best to shy away from such if you can’t find any trustworthy information on them or they don’t provide a whitepaper. There’s a big chance they’ll abandon their investors once they’ve collected the funds, so you’ll never hear from them again. 

Conclusion: Be Safe, Stick To Major Well Known Platforms and Avoid Sketchy Links

The best way to avoid crypto scams is to buy or sell cryptos on a legitimate trading platform. Ensure you double-check links or apps before clicking on them. Furthermore, consider the tips mentioned here, so you’ll be safe from inviting schemes of crypto scammers.

For more great Free Financial Advisor articles, read these:

How To Increase Your Net Worth

Financial Resolutions, Debt, Saving and Crypto

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Is The ADA Cardano Going To The Moon?

 

 

Investment Risks in the World Today

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The world is crazy right now. The war with Russia and Ukraine has created investment risks and opportunities with commodities, specifically. Inflation is also an issue. What do you do with all of these moving parts in the global economy?

Gold

Gold has only gone up since the war began, up over $2,000 for the first time since 2020. The reason being is that gold is a store of value and is often seen as a safe asset during times of uncertainty, like war, inflation, or a pandemic.

Gold isn’t the only asset that’s used in times of uncertainty. Cash, bonds, and other precious metals have also seen a massive inflow lately.

Crypto

Cryptocurrencies have also seen a run-up in recent weeks, for two reasons. One, some people do see cryptocurrencies as a store of value like gold. And two, cryptocurrencies have played a role in this war. Because Russia has been cut off, financially, from the rest of the world, they’ve used crypto to finance operations. Ukraine has done the same, but for the reason of being able to raise money from different channels.

Oil

The price of oil has been on a roller coaster since the war began. Russia supplies a lot of energy to the world. It supplies the U.S. with just 3% of oil, but it supplies Europe with most of what they use. That said, the price of oil went up very fast to about $125/barrel because the US and other countries blocked them off to further disrupt their finances.

It’s come back down since then thanks to OPEC+. They pledged to increase production to make up for the loss in supply.

Inflation

Inflation is off the charts right now. The most recent reading came in at 7.9%. There are quite a few things that are seeing the effects of it. Food is getting more expensive. Gas, obviously, due to supply constraints and inflation is getting more expensive. Property is also getting more expensive. Interest rates are going up as well. My wife and I refinanced late last year and locked our rate in at 3%. The most recent reading came in at 4.5%.

The FED is going to make some moves as well. Because of the war with Russia and Ukraine, they will take a more measured and conservative approach, so it’s possible that inflation is a problem for longer because the FED won’t hike rates as quickly as they may have previously intended.

Commodities

There are some other commodities, besides gold and other precious metals, that are feeling a pinch due to the war between Russia and Ukraine. Wheat is the biggest example of this because between Russia and Ukraine, they produce and ship a third of the world’s wheat.

Unintended consequences

Even though the war is between two countries, it’s affecting everything (though differently than how it’s affecting Russia and Ukraine). There are logistical problems that are delaying shipments of things. The air space above the scuffle is off-limits, so flights around the area are taking longer than they previously would have. Longer flights = more fuel and reduced volume on flights = increased costs.

There are a lot of investment risks and opportunities due to the moving parts in the world right now and the market will continue to be volatile until things settle down. If you have time to ride out some ugly markets, stick to your plan. If you’re in retirement or close to retirement, reducing your risk might not be a bad idea.

Related reading:

How to Invest in Gold: 5 Ways to Get Started

How Inflation is Changing Our Lives and Not for the Better

Weekly Wrap: Crypto Aids Ukraine Putin Aids Inflation and Russian Investments Tank

Safeguarding Your Future: A Comprehensive Review Of Augusta Precious Metals

Disclaimer:

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