Investor Types - What Type Of Investor Are You

Investor Types - What Type Of Investor Are You
There are many different types of investors in the stock
market. Some people are bearish, believing that the market
is going to fall, while others are bullish, believing that
the market is about to rise. Within both categorizations,
investors can be classified into the following types:
Aggressive, Moderately Aggressive, Moderately Conservative,
and Conservative. Which type are you?

Aggressive investors tend to concentrate on equity
investments such as individual stocks and mutual funds.
They are open to more risk, willing to see large short term
swings in market performance on an annualized basis. They
aim for large growth in the market, often above what the
long term market performance has shown. They are also
seeking quick growth in their portfolio, and some are even
called "Day Traders." The recommendation for this investor
is to have a minimum timeframe of 15 years before they will
need their principal investment, to allow for variations in
the market to average out. The average rates of return that
an aggressive investor expects to see is between 12-14%, a
few percentage points above the long term stock market
average.

Moderately Aggressive investors also seek longer term
investment gains through a mix of equity investments. While
many of the investments are the same, the overall portfolio
contains some more conservative investments, creating a
portfolio that builds wealth with less annual swings in the
portfolio's performance. An investor with a time frame of
between 6-10+ years is most appropriate for this type of
portfolio and the average level of return that an investor
can expect to receive is between 10-11% annually. This
annual investment return represents the stock market's long
term average growth over the past several decades.

Moderately Conservative investors are much less willing to
accept variations in their portfolio's balance. Individuals
that are going to need their money within 3-6 years are
most suitable for this investment strategy, or those
looking for a regular income stream. A moderately
conservative portfolio is often more weighted to individual
bonds or bond mutual funds, and can expect to earn between
6-8% in annual growth. Moderately Conservative investors
also typically receive income from dividends on a quarterly
or annual basis from their investments.

Conservative investors are typically those with either a
short term goal (less than 3 years), or those who are in
retirement seeking a regular income stream. These
portfolios tilt away from equity investments into more
preservation investments, like real estate investment
trusts (R.E.I.T.'s), individual bonds, bond funds,
municipal bonds and annuities. These assets are not
intended to provide great growth within the portfolio, but
are designed to provide income and preserve the principal
balance over the investor's estimated lifespan.

These descriptions are meant to serve as a guide as there
are many different definitions of these categories
throughout the international stock markets. In order to
determine what type of investor you are, take a risk
tolerance quiz online and consider your gut feelings about
the level of risk that you are willing to accept. Whether
you are aggressive, moderately aggressive, moderately
conservative or conservative, you are sure to build long
term wealth when investing into the stock market.

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For a free DVD by a Self Made Millionaire, visit:
http://www.investing-in-australia.com.au

Balance Transfer Credit Cards: Three Reasons to Apply for One

Balance Transfer Credit Cards: Three Reasons to Apply for One
You've probably heard of balance transfer credit cards. But
you may not be aware of all the benefits that come with
them. These cards can help you get out of debt while
enjoying additional perks. If you're thinking about signing
up for a new card, here are three reasons to consider a
balance transfer.

A Chance to Consolidate Debt

If you have a number of outstanding balances on different
credit cards that are weighing you down, you're not alone.
Many cardholders juggle various accounts and interest
rates. When you want to get rid of the balances, it can be
hard to keep track of everything.

A balance transfer card is a smart option to get you
organized. You can consolidate your credit card debt into
one account. Balance transfer credit cards usually offer
lower interest rates than other cards. This allows you to
save on interest as you pay off the amount. By setting up a
schedule to make payments, you can get out of debt quickly.

0% APR Introductory Period

In addition to a lower regular interest rate, balance
transfer credit cards usually include an introductory
period. This may apply to the balance transfer itself. That
means that the amount you bring over will not be charged
interest for a certain time, usually between six and twelve
months. This creates a window for you to reduce the debt,
interest-free. If possible, you'll want to pay off the
entire amount during this time. Through this method, you
could save hundreds of dollars in interest fees.

Some balance transfer credit cards include a 0% APR
introductory period for purchases as well. This allows you
to buy items and avoid high interest fees. The 0% interest
on purchases is a convenient feature if you've already paid
off the existing balance. If not, you'll want to
concentrate on reducing the amount you owe before using the
card on a regular basis.

Additional Rewards

Balance transfer credit cards are often advertised as a way
to consolidate and reduce debt. And in a large part, they
are. But many also include additional benefits, such as
rewards programs. Once you start making purchases with the
card, you can earn rack up points for free airline tickets,
travel benefits, and cash back bonuses.

As you shop, compare the different features of balance
transfer credit cards. Consider the various interest rates
offered, as well as the attached rewards programs. Some
credit card websites include a balance transfer calculator,
which lets you see how much you would be saving by
switching cards. Punch in the different rates and balances,
and use it as a guide to find the right option for you.

You'll also want to read the fine print before applying.
Some cards charge a fee for bringing over outstanding
amounts from other places. Check to make sure you will save
more on interest than you have to pay in transfer fees. For
most cards, the savings do outweigh the costs involved.

After signing up for a new card, it's up to you to make the
most of it. Make monthly payments to get rid of any
outstanding balances as quickly as possible. Then start
using the card for new purchases. With proper planning,
you'll be out of debt and in the rewards in no time. How's
that for a good credit card deal?

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To View Balance Transfer Credit Cards click the following
link:
http://www.credit-card-surplus.com/balancetransfer.php . Ed
Vegliante runs http://www.credit-card-surplus.com , a
directory helping consumers to compare and apply for credit
cards.

IRS Ramps Up Audits

IRS Ramps Up Audits
Are IRS audits really on the rise? YES!

Here are a few highlights from the IRS's audit activities
in 2007:

For the first time since 1998, the percentage of individual
tax return audits was higher than one percent. Audits of S
corporations and partnerships increased. 1 out of 11
millionaires faced an audit in 2007.

What is triggering this increase in audits?

The IRS is under great pressure from Congress to show
results in closing the $300 billion tax gap, the difference
between what taxpayers owe and what they pay. The IRS
reported that enforcement and examination revenue totaled
more than $55 billion in 2007, up from roughly $45 billion
in 2006.

Audits of Individual Tax Returns:

Audits of all individuals across all income levels
increased in 2007. The IRS reported that the total number
of individual returns audited in 2007 was 1.38 million
compared to 1.29 million in 2006.

Audits of "High Income" Individuals:

The IRS considers "high income" individuals to be those who
have "Total Positive Income" (TPI) of $100,000 or more.
Generally, TPI is calculated by using only positive income
values from specific income fields on the tax return and
treats losses as zero. This is important for those with
real estate losses!

Example:

You file a return showing wages of $80,000, interest of
$10,000, business income of $40,000, and a $35,000 loss
from rental real estate. Your net income is then $95,000.
However, your TPI is $130,000, so your return is considered
a high income tax return by the IRS.

The IRS audited 293,188 of these returns in 2007, up nearly
14 percent from 2006.

The IRS also audited more individuals with incomes above
$200,000 in 2007 than in 2006. Audits of individuals with
incomes over $200,000 reached 113,105 returns, reflecting
an increase of nearly 30 percent from 2006!

Audits of Millionaires:

Audits of individuals with incomes of $1 million or more
increased 84 percent from 2006 to 2007. More than 30,000
millionaires were audited in 2007 compared to 17,000 in
2006.

Audits of Businesses:

The IRS took special interest in two popular business
entities: S corporations and partnerships. Audits of both
entities were up in 2007 compared to 2006 by roughly 25
percent.

With the tax gap as large as it is, the IRS is likely to
keep up this new pace. Are you prepared?

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Tom Wheelwright is not only the founder and CEO of
Provision, but he is the creative force behind Provision
Wealth Strategists. In addition to his management
responsibilities, Tom likes to coach clients on wealth,
business, and tax strategies. Along with his frequent
seminars on such strategies, Tom is an adjunct professor in
the Masters of Tax program at Arizona State University. For
more information, please visit
http://www.provisionwealth.com

5 Things You Need to Know about a Canadian Secured Credit Card

5 Things You Need to Know about a Canadian Secured Credit Card
There are numerous articles and informative resources that
contain tips and advice regarding secured cards in the
United States, but what about those consumers who need a
Canadian secured credit card? Are there secured card
options for Canadian cardholders? The truth is out there,
and we are getting to the bottom of it. If you want
information about secured credit cards in Canada, this is
what you have been looking for...

They Do Exist!

Yes, my friends, you can indeed get a Canadian secured
credit card -- if, of course, you meet some basic
requirements. First and foremost, you need to live in the
country of Canada. You cannot really get a Canadian secured
credit card if you live in a different country. In addition
to residency requirements, you will probably also need to
meet some income requirements and you will definitely need
to supply a security deposit for the card.

The Security Deposit Factor

A security deposit for a Canadian secured credit card is
not much different than the security deposits required for
US-based cards. Security deposit minimums are usually
around $300 and your deposit will likely earn an interest
rate of around 2 percent annually.

The Fees

Like other secured cards, there are going to be fees
associated with a Canadian secured credit card. You can
expect an annual fee of $50 or more depending on your
specific credit history. There might even be processing
fees depending on the card you apply for and monthly fees
are also a possibility. Of course, interest is something
you will have to pay no matter what card you go with, and
rates can vary drastically from card to card.

Try to keep your fees to a minimum, applying for cards with
the lowest fees first. If you do not qualify for those
cards, you might have to settle for a Canadian secured
credit card, and they may have higher fees and higher
finance charges as well. Handle With Care

When you do get your credit card, make sure you manage it
wisely. If you pay your bill on time each and every month
you'll eventually be able to transition to an unsecured
line of credit.

While a Canadian secured credit card may be more expensive
and less prestigious than the card of your dreams, it's a
practical way of establishing the credit history you need
for the credit you want in the future.

----------------------------------------------------
For more tips on secured credit cards, saving money and
avoiding getting taken, check out CreditCardTipsEtc.com, a
website that specializes in providing credit card tips,
advice and resources.
http://www.creditcardtipsetc.com/secured_credit_cards/

A Savings Account Can Save Your Home

A Savings Account Can Save Your Home
Defaulted home loans and foreclosures in the United States
are making international news. You cannot open up a
newspaper or turn on a television without hearing about the
housing market. It's my opinion that mortgages will
continue to be in the news for quite a while.

So what's happening and how does that affect you? Simply
put, people are falling behind on their mortgage payments
because of unexpected changes to their finances. As a
result, they have lost their homes or are in danger of
losing their homes. We would like to think that these
people couldn't afford a home to begin with, but it's not
always true: job loss, disability, divorce, and other
changes that we don't even like to think about can
completely change our financial outlook. Rising interest
rates or balloon payments, events we thought we'd be ready
for, can suddenly become dangerous obstacles to our
security. Unfortunately, no one knows what will happen next
month, let alone next year. So you need to take steps to be
prepared.

What can you do to be prepared? The standard answer is to
have an emergency savings account that can meet six months
of expenses, but how do you set aside money when you're
having trouble meeting your current monthly expenses?

1. Find the leaks. You need to find the leaks that are
preventing you from setting money aside. Some leaks may be
obvious and can be addressed immediately with very few
changes, but others may need some research and
investigation. How do you find the less obvious leaks? You
start by dividing your expenses into two categories: needs
and wants. A need is something you must have, such as your
mortgage payment, the utility bills, insurance,
transportation, or food. A want is something you can do
without, like expensive clothing or entertainment.
Sometimes a want is disguised as a need. An example of that
can be eating out instead of preparing your own food. Yes,
you do need to eat, but you can eat for much less if you
bring food to work instead of eating out every day. Your
mortgage, utilities, insurance and transportation can also
be closely examined to see if you're making the best
choices.

2. Reduce your entertainment expenses without giving up
entertainment. Once you've found your leaks, then you can
start addressing them. One of my personal leaks was books,
because I love to read. These days, I typically go to the
library and borrow a book if I think I really must have it.
After I've read the book and know I will read it again,
then I'll let myself make the purchase. Did you know that
you can ask the library to purchase books if they don't
already have them? Most libraries have a fund especially
for requested books, knowing that if one person asks for
the book, many others are probably wanting to read it as
well. This works for movies, too. Most libraries also have
a free movie night - great entertainment at no cost. By my
example, I'm trying to show you that saving money doesn't
always mean going without, it can mean making better use of
the resources available to you.

3. Lower your utility costs the smart way. Not every need
or want can be replaced by free community resources, but it
is possible to lower your expenses while still holding on
to the basic services you're used to enjoying. You can have
fewer televisions connected to your cable / satellite
service, switch to a less expensive package, or maybe give
it up all together and strictly watch movies and TV shows
on DVDs that you've rented or borrowed from the library. If
utilities are your biggest expense you can lower your costs
there as well. When we power washed our home this summer,
we found a few windows that needed to be caulked. We were
glad to take care of it, because caulk is much cheaper than
the heat we would have lost during the cold winter months.
Other ways to lower utility bills are to take shorter
showers, turn out lights when you leave a room, and dress
according to the weather instead of forcing the heating and
cooling to make you comfortable no matter how you're
dressed.

4. Don't be afraid of change. I know from experience that
the biggest obstacle to saving money is the desire for
convenience and the need to fit in. What will you talk
about if can't watch the latest TV shows? Who will eat
lunch with you if you have to eat in the break room? What
if you've never used caulk and aren't even sure what to do
with it? Fear of the unknown can make it hard to get
excited about change. A great way to get excited is to
learn what other people are doing and how it has benefited
their lives. If you are interested in learning more, a few
really great books to read are: "Not Buying It: My Year
Without Shopping" by Judith Levine; David Bach's "The
Automatic Millionaire" Suze Orman's "The 9 Steps to
Financial Freedom" and Amy Dacyczyn's "The Complete
Tightwad Gazette". Remember to check your local library for
titles. After you've sampled the book and know you want to
keep it for future reference, then feel free to buy it.

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Jill Russo Foster provides practical tips for everyday
finances. Learn more about protecting your credit and
living within your means with Jill's popular free report,
bi-monthly ezine, and credit report reminder program,
available here ==>
http://www.themortgagearrangers.com/resources.asp

Secured Credit Card Advantages

Secured Credit Card Advantages
Secured Credit Cards have many advantages for someone who
does not have any credit, or someone with challenged
credit. It is hard to do a lot of things without credit
cards. In this article I will discuss why you need credit,
and if you don't have credit or your credit is challenged,
how secure credit cards will benefit you.

Establish good credit
One of the hardest challenges is to get a creditor to
extend credit to someone that has no credit. There was a
trick used for years, and that trick was having a family
member ad you to there credit card as an authorized user.
Recently the FICO® score model was changed because of
the fraudulent use of selling authorized user accounts by
credit repair companies. This motivated Fair Isaac to
change there FICO® score model. So if you are added to
a credit account as an authorized user, this can hurt your
credit score. This loophole has been closed. The best way
to get started in the credit building process or the credit
rebuilding process is too get a secure credit card. Secure
credit cards require a deposit into a designated account by
the credit card company. This is the quickset way to start
establishing good credit.

How much credit do you need?
Once you start building your credit, most creditors like to
see at least 3 lines of credit reporting on your credit
report for 12 months. The standard is getting 3 secure
credit cards or at least two will suffice. Once the lines
of credit have been reporting to all 3 credit bureaus for
12 months your credit score will start to appear or get
better depending on your circumstances. Remember secure
credit cards are just a way to get the ball rolling. After
you have been paying on your credit cards with no late
payments other credit card companies will start offering
you credit cards with small credit limits. Typically they
will extend around $1000 line of credit to you. With good
history they will increase that limit over time. Your
credit card balance should never be charged over 30% of
allowed credit limit. Fair Isaac talks about this in their
score model. Be careful with credit cards, they can consume
you if you are not careful. You should never charge more on
a credit card than you can pay off that month.

Payment History
If you have one late payment on your credit card, you just
defeated the entire purpose of this article and the credit
building process. One late payment will slaughter your
credit scores. Typically your credit score will drop 100 to
150 points. So if you had a 720 credit score, you now have
a 570 score. A 570 credit score will get you denied for all
types of credit. So make sure your payment history is in
good health. Never be late on anything. Make sure you get a
copy of your free credit score report to see where you
currently stand.

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About the Author: Mike Clover is the owner of
http://www.creditscorequick.com/ . CreditScoreQuick.com is
the one of the most unique on-line resources for free
credit score report, fico score, Internet identity theft
software, secure credit cards, and a BlOG with a wealth of
personal credit information. The information within this
website is written by professionals that know about credit,
and what determines ones credit worthiness.