Archive for the ‘Investing’ Category

« Older Entries

Trigger Quick Business Growth- 4 Smart Reasons to Apply for a Business Loan!

Monday, September 24th, 2018

If you are a business owner, simply taking a loan does not mean you are willing to increase debts. There are smart reasons for you to apply for a business loan and promote the consistent growth and development of your business. You need to have a concrete business plan in place to help you utilize the business loan to its maximum potential so that you can drive rapid business growth with success.

4 top reasons for a business loan to drive business growth

Industry experts say the following are some of the smart reasons why you should apply for a business loan-

  1. Get a new physical location for your office staff- Is your office too cramped for your staff to work in? You might not have realized this, but a space crunch can be a prime deterrent to your business growth. Yes, your staff need more cubicles and air to breathe. You may be the owner of a restaurant or even a retail store. If space in your business area is getting smaller day by day, this means your business is expanding. Good news. It is time for you to apply for a business loan and switch to a bigger and better physical location. However, before you apply for the loan, examine and analyze the revenue you will earn in the process. Will changing office space cover the loan? Forecast and if you see a positive outcome, go ahead. The staff will be happy and with a bigger space their morale will increase. They will become more productive and will see the chances of long-term growth when you decide to use the funds obtained from your business loan for a better and better office space! 
  2. Funds to invest in new equipment for your existing business- Business loans can be used for the purchase of new and modern equipment. This will largely help you to eliminate time-consuming and redundant machinery in the workplace. Moreover, equipment financing is often considered to be collateral for the business loan you take. The process is more or less like a loan you take for a car. You should examine your business and check the necessary equipment you need to accelerate production and improve revenue. You must ensure your employees are trained when it comes to new machinery. The last thing you want is employees getting new equipment and they are not aware of how to use them. Business loans should only be taken and applied for when you check the above. Check what the optimal investments for your business are. Just because your employees have demanded vending machines does not mean you get them. Analyze and check whether the machines will give you desired revenue and business growth before you take the loan.
  3. Inventory purchase- Most banks and financial institutions will provide you with business loans if you need funds for purchasing new inventory. You should always stock your inventory with high-quality options. Experts in the field of money lending says if you are in a business that is seasonal by nature, there are some months where you need to buy more inventory over others. These are the months where you need business funds for the purchase. They advise you when you have a seasonal business where funds are needed to buy inventory, always apply for the business loan in the off-season. This will give you sufficient time in hand to buy inventory for your needs. This means you can earn better profits as you have the inventory ready when you need it the most for your business. Now, experts again say that when you plan to apply for a business loan for inventory purchase, consider whether it is a prudent move. Calculate the sales projection for the task. Remember, the sales numbers vary from season to season so make sure that you keep risks and other factors in mind.
  4. Business opportunities that eliminate potential debts– Now, if you have already in the market performing well, you may come across a unique business opportunity that will give you the chance to pay off a potential debt. For instance, you may receive a huge commercial contract for a large corporation however you do not have sufficient equipment to fulfill the order on time. This is where you should apply for a business loan and buy the equipment you need. With the business loan, you effectively are able to buy the equipment you need for finishing the order. Here, you need to do some calculations as you have to estimate the costs of the order and make sure that it will cover the business loan expenses you take. Keep the risk factors in mind and always weigh the pros and cons of the project before you come forward with a concrete decision. You need to make a forecast for revenue as well. The major decision for the above must be made on solid predictions and calculations over just a gut feeling. Determine the revenues on investment and make sure the opportunity you seek gives business growth as well.

Therefore, if you wish to trigger business growth and consistent revenue, you should consider the above four smart reasons to take business loans. These loans will mainly help you to trigger better returns on investment and revenue as well. Talk to your financial advisor or an expert in the field of money lending so that you effectively are able to get the best returns when it comes to taking a business loan. The above reasons are ideal for both new and old businesses that wish to see a transformation in their business revenue and growth. Apply for small amounts of business loans in the beginning if you do not wish to take risks. Remember to have a decent credit history, and in case you have a poor credit score make sincere attempts to fix it first before applying for a business loan- your chances for its approval will be higher!

Summary

There are smart reasons for business owners to apply for a business loan and promote the consistent growth and development of your business. They need to have a concrete business plan in place to help you utilize the business loan to its maximum potential so that you can drive rapid business growth with success.

Author Bio

Marina Thomas is a marketing and communication expert. She also serves as content developer with many years of experience. She helps clients in long term wealth plans. She has previously covered an extensive range of topics in her posts, including business debt consolidation and start-ups.

Posted in Financial Intelligence, Guest Post, Investing, small business | 1 Comment »

FINANCIKA NIGERIA – IS IT LEGIT?

Thursday, January 25th, 2018

Financika Trading Platform is one of the leading financial solutions in Forex trading today – they have made a good name for themselves and are constantly on the rise. However, the greatest question this trading platform has faced has been: “Is Financika legit?” Well, it is normal to have concerns when it comes to Forex trading as it is easy to fall into the hands of scam firms that are always ready to rip you off your hard earned money. However, Financika Nigeria, as well as its firms all over the world provide invaluable answers to the questions of interested clients by offering effective solutions for online traders.

What is Financika – Is it good for Nigerians?
The investment solutions provided by Financika Nigeria meets the standards of the best global financial practices and is aimed at helping investors – beginners and experienced individuals alike – to maximize their profit potential. As well as in Nigeria, Financika’s trading platform is open to all countries that have traders have strong desire to make the most of the opportunities available online. Unlike many Forex trading platforms, Financika educates its traders about the positives and downsides of online trading as every investment has its risk. Any trading platform that fails to do so is basically fraudulent.

Trading Platform & Trading Training
Financika Nigeria is an open and transparent online trading platform and they are very clear about the factors every investor must look out for before making any investments. Trading platforms that do unnecessary premonitions of fluctuations in the market must be avoided – no one can correctly tell the changing moods and fluctuations of the market. Therefore, while it is important for a trading platform to educate its investors about the entire possibilities involved in online trading, it should not be aimed at scaring anyone or making anyone feel too relaxed.
As a safe broker, Financika offers technical advice and analysis for free – even including daily market updates on the website page. Financika also makes an economic calendar available free of charge in order for a trader to be able to properly analyze the different options available, the market directions, and have a very clear perspective of the market possibilities.
Before making a decision on the best trading platform to work with, check out the social media pages of the platform and be on the lookout for a text disclaimer. A legitimate online trading platform must include a risk disclaimer in all their marketing materials. Financika has gone as far as dedicating an entire page on its website to this concept. This is designed to inspire confidence in any potential trader.

Is Financika Safe?
A decent trading platform must always make the terms and conditions of operation available and very understandable. In fact, any broker that hides the terms and conditions involved in their business and transactions is never a transparent one. Even if there are promotional bonuses and little attractive pecks, do not be swayed by the antics of fraudulent Forex brokers. The terms and conditions of Financika are as transparent as glass.
Many Forex brokers and advisers do not properly explain what the term “margin” means – and you would definitely come across this term if you go into trading. If a broker does not clearly define the differences between margin and leverage, their customers would be exposed to the risk of losing their money. Learning the differences between such delicate terms would be crucial to achieving success in Forex trading. Through the online trading education platform of Financika, potential traders are well informed of different terms involved in trading and the best possible trading approach.

Is Financika Nigeria Legit?
Considering all the factors stated above, the answer is yes. Financika Nigeria is not only a legit online trading platform, but it offers the best financial education platform to ensure traders are well aware of all possibilities before they make their decision. Market analyses, useful tools, and a clear and concise explanation of all the trading terminologies ensures Financika stands tall among any competitors – in Nigeria. You can register an account on Financika Trading Platform today.

Posted in Guest Post, Investing | 3 Comments »

The Shark Tank Formula For Startup Success

Monday, November 24th, 2014

Have you ever wondered what it takes to launch a successful startup? ABC’s reality TV show, Shark Tank, demonstrates what it’s like for entrepreneurs to go through the process of pitching their business ideas to investors (otherwise known as sharks).

Over the course of five seasons, there have been 337 pitches and only 186 deals. Out of these deals, only one-third them actually closed! You’re probably wondering, why is this such a low rate?

The reality is, it’s tough to keep your startup afloat after launching. Since 2012, only one in 17 business ventures have actually experienced a profit. Unfortunately, not every entrepreneur has the opportunity to become the next Mark Zuckerberg.

Despite the challenges of launching a startup, there are a few things entrepreneurs can do to increase their chances of success. First, it’s absolutely necessary to know your product inside and out. Regardless of how cool you think your idea is, it won’t be valuable to investors unless it serves a real purpose for your target audience.

When preparing to launch, it’s also important to perfect your pitch. Entrepreneurs need to approach investors with a goal, a business plan, and also know their numbers very well. Investors only care about how profitable your business will be in the future. Make sure you understand your numbers and can identify the information about your business that will important to investors.

Finally, it’s important to build a strong network of investors. Remember, you want these people to take interest in your business and provide you with the funding you need. Spend time building relationships with investors and learn about what they’re looking for in potential startups.

These are just a few of the takeaways you should know from ABC’s Shark Tank. To learn more about launching a startup and what it takes to be a startup success, check out the infographic below:

Shark Tank Formula

Shark Tank Formula

Your feedback will be appreciated. Cheers.

Author Bio – Ivan Serrano is a business and social media journalist living in the Bay Area of California.

Tags:, , , , , , ,
Posted in Entrepreneur, Financial Intelligence, Guest Post, Investing, small business | 1 Comment »

Freelancing Your Way To A Real Business

Wednesday, April 16th, 2014

When it comes to risk versus reward, freelancing is one of those vocation choices that has the potential of offering plenty of returns without a lot of up-front resources or capital at stake. Given the right opportunities, knowing the right people, and having the right skills can turn a casual hobby into something you can actually get paid for doing.

Here’s how you can take that freelancing gig of yours and turn it into an actual, consistent business. Of course, this isn’t the last word on the subject. Aspiring self-employed types should get as much knowledge and information as possible; especially in topics like how to promote yourself, Financial Management for Freelancers, and how to file taxes as a self-employed entity (spoiler alert: it’s a bloody nightmare).

Freelancing Your Way To A Real BusinessYou can turn your hobby into a business if you have the time, talent, and opportunity

Be Prolific
The best way to get your name out there is to be productive. Whether you’re selling a product (like a craft-related item), or offering a service (such as a writer or website designer), people need to see that you can churn things out that customers want. For instance, if you’re a writer, make sure to get your name out there by writing for magazines, blogs, or anthologies. Start getting that reputation as someone who delivers results. You need to leave your footprints and handprints all over the Internet.

Be Patient
Although it’s exciting when you start getting multiple clients, you really have to pace yourself. Having six clients giving you work at the same time may look good in terms of income, but if you spread yourself too thin, you’ll deliver an inferior product, and make it likely that you won’t get repeat customers. Know your limitations, and build up your customer base slowly. Don’t try to tackle everything at once. Better to start off with three clients that get excellent work from you than ten clients who get barely passable work. This means learning to say “no”.

Be Prepared
One of the most hair-pulling and frustrating things about freelancing is the inconsistency. On any given month, a client may give you four projects or purchase a large amount of the goods you produce. The next, they may barely remember that you even exist. Be ready for the lean times by socking away some money for emergencies, to tide you over when you have a light month. Also, having that reserve will make sure you don’t get desperate, and end up taking a job far outside your area of expertise, something that could have serious repercussions on your overall reputation.

Be Organized
Many freelancers and one-person businesses end up working out of their home. While this is an awesome aspect of the job, make sure you have boundaries separating your personal and professional life. Set up times when you’re “at work”, and when you’re enjoying time off. That requires a level of planning and organization in order to adequately map out your responsibilities and how much time you devote to them. Also, make sure you have a work space that’s separate and dedicated to your job, if for no other reason than making it easier to claim it as a business expense of your income tax return.

Be Visible
Finally, make sure that people know you exist. Since you are self-employed, then shameless self-promotion is key. After all, working for yourself means that you are responsible for every stage of the job and yes, that includes marketing. Make sure you have business cards, a business page on various social media platforms, and an easy way for people to get a hold of you, whether by cell phone or email. If you have a blog, make sure to drop an occasional reference about your business (something which should already reside in the About section of your blogging site). Seriously, you need to let people know you exist and that you can write. Or draw. Or whatever it is you do.

It’s exciting and challenging when you take an avocation and turn it into a vocation. It becomes even more exciting when a part-time freelance gig turns into a full-time job. And there’s a lot of advice out there for budding entrepreneurs, so keep your eyes open.

Byline: John Terra has been a freelance writer since 1985. He’s done the full-time writing thing, but these days he supplements his freelancing with a “regular” job.

Photo Credit: justinmatthew21

Tags:, , , ,
Posted in Entrepreneur, Financial Intelligence, Investing, small business | 1 Comment »

Understanding the Full Potential Of E-Commerce In Nigeria

Monday, April 14th, 2014

Nigeria, now known as The Giant of Africa, was recently declared as the region’s biggest economy, surpassing South Africa. Almost overnight, Nigeria was increase by 89% its current GDP, which is now worth USD 510 billion. This follows a recalculation of the GDP to include the rising “Nollywood” industry, as well as the banking, telecoms, and e-commerce sectors.

E-commerce and online trade make up two of the biggest contributors in the increase of the nation’s GDP. Over USD 1.3 billion has been invested in the retail industry, with USD 15 million of that channelled to the online trade industry.

Retail in itself is a major driver of economic and employment growth. With over 80 million Nigerians residing in metropolitan areas, the country has great opportunities for existing and new investors to take advantage of the online retail business.  A report from the Oxford Business Group indicates that foreign and local investors are already expanding their domestic retail footprints in the country.

Nigeria’s population alone makes the country the largest consumer market in Africa. With the introduction of more Internet providers and the availability of mobile devices in the country, e-commerce businesses in Nigeria can easily reach their full potential, if business owners know how to take advantage of the ripe market.

One of the biggest hurdles to e-commerce in Nigeria, however, is online accessibility. Despite the increase of mobile telecoms, broadband capacity still isn’t widely accessible. In 2012, only 32.9% of the Nigerian population has Internet, despite the increase of Internet service providers in 2013. Most of the population can access the Internet via their mobile phones though, thanks to the introduction of GPRS and EDGE connectivity.

Nigerian E-commerce

E-Commerce in Nigeria on the Rise

Despite this, a handful e-commerce companies have won significant investments and are now considered rising stars in the online trade business. Jumia, an online retailer that began only with three employees in 2012, currently has USD 35 million in investments, over 150 partner brands, and more than 500 employees. The company was awarded as Best New Retail Launch in 2013 by the World Retail Awards, proving that e-commerce in Nigeria can be profitable and successful.

Similarly, Konga is another Nigerian e-commerce and online retail company, which has won investments of more than USD 24 million. Launched in 2012, Konga is currently the 16th most popular website in the country, according to Alexa.com.  HumanIPO also selected Konga as one of the African technology start-ups of 2013 due to its impressive and consistent service. Konga also recently launched a buy-and-sell platform where users can set up an online storefront with Konga.

Thanks partly to the success of these two e-commerce sites, online trade and retail in Nigeria maintains a positive outlook. Online retailers have been luring shoppers from physical stores, offering convenience and a greater variety of products offered. Online retail customers have the option to pay for their items on delivery, or through online payments via credit cards.

Analysts are actually optimistic that the upward trajectory in online retail will continue to rise, as more Nigerians start to see that local online shopping will be faster, more convenient, and cheaper. Add to the fact that more and more people are connecting to the Internet via their mobile phones and tablets, the dot com business is a viable way to profit in Nigeria.

Plans are also already underway to improve and increase Internet and broadband connectivity in the country. More accessible Internet access can pave the way for other online businesses aside from e-commerce—banking, services that offer online credit card comparison, affiliate blogs, consultancy blogs, and so on—to enjoy better opportunities for not only for business owners and investors, but also for local consumers.

Nigeria is still a developing country, despite the increase in its national GDP. With the proper investments both offline and online, and a consistency in government efforts to improve infrastructure, Nigeria is well on its way to joining the exclusive club of emerging economies in the world.

Author’s Bio

Ryan Del Villlar is a content strategist for MoneyHero. He is also a freelance writer for an Online Reputation Management company. He writes ORM articles for various clients.

Tags:, , , , ,
Posted in Investing, small business | 2 Comments »

« Older Entries