Personal Capital is a client-centric robo-advisor offering investment and wealth management services. The company distinguishes itself from the competition by combining automation with personal service. With over 2.7 million users, Personal Capital currently holds $16 billion in assets under management.
Unlike many financial apps designed to make investing more accessible, Personal Capital is a robo-advisor for those who already have some established wealth. They’ve gone back and forth on the minimum investment required, which is now set at $100,000.
Get started with Personal Capital
on Personal Capital’s secure website
Its goal is to provide a more transparent and affordable investment platform. However, its wealth management service does target clients with larger assets, with higher fees being assessed with the fewer assets you let the company manage.
In this Personal Capital review, we’ll get into the specifics shortly, but the upside to potentially paying higher fees is the access you get to financial advisors to help with your investment strategy.
The company utilizes five principles for investing:
the modern portfolio theory
personalized asset allocation
tax optimization
equal sector and style weighting
disciplined rebalancing
No matter how much in assets you’re looking to invest, consider Personal Capital if you prefer a hands-on experience or if you have a large portfolio to open or transfer. Either way, we’ll take you step-by-step through the different types of accounts you can have with Personal Capital, as well as the fees you’ll pay at different asset levels.
You’ll also learn about the special features that make Personal Capital unique, including financial tools and expertise. If you’re looking for an online advisor for any or all of your wealth management, see if Personal Capital is right for you.
Available Plans at Personal Capital
There are three different plans available at Personal Capital, which are divided up based on the amount of investable assets you have. If you know how much you’d like to invest, find the correct category to learn about the benefits and services you’d receive from Personal Capital. Then keep reading to learn more about the fee structure.
Investment Service Plan
The first plan is targeted for those with up to $200,000 in assets to be invested. Services include access to a financial advisory team, a tax-efficient ETF portfolio, dynamic tactical weighting, 401k advice, and cash flow & spending insights.
You’ll also get to use Personal Capital’s free wealth management tools. You do, however, need a minimum of $100,000 to get started investing with Personal Capital.
Wealth Management Plan
The next option is the Wealth Management plan, for those with investable assets between $200,000 and $1 million. You get access to all the benefits from the Investment Service plan, plus several others.
The Wealth Management service includes two dedicated financial advisors, customizable stocks and ETFs, a full financial and retirement plan, college savings and 529 planning, tax-loss harvesting and tax location, and financial decisions support.
The financial decisions support refers to help with insurance, home financing, stock options, and compensation. Also, note while your financial advisors can help you plan for investment accounts like a 401k for retirement or a 529 for college savings, Personal Capital doesn’t actually offer these accounts.
Private Client Plan
If you invest more than $1 million, you qualify for the Private Client Plan. Again, you receive all the perks of the previous two plans, in addition to several more.
To begin, you’ll get priority access to CFP, financial advisors, investment committee, and support, plus an investment portfolio mix of ETFs, individual stocks, and individual bonds (in certain situations).
You also receive family tiered billing; private banking services; estate, tax, and legacy portfolio construction; and donor-advised funds. Personal Capital also offers private clients a private equity and hedge fund review, deferred compensation strategy, as well as estate attorney and CPA collaboration.
Get started with Personal Capital
on Personal Capital’s secure website
Fee Structure and Accounts
The more money you invest through Personal Capital, the more money you’ll save in fees. If you invest up to $1 million, your fee comes to 0.89% of the assets being managed. If you invest more than $1 million, your first $3 million in assets are only charged a 0.79% fee. Then, your next $2 million is charged 0.69%.
The $5 million after that are charged 0.59% and the next $10 million are charged 0.49%. However, there aren’t any charged beyond the account management fees, so you don’t have to worry about annual, transfer, or closing fees.
So what types of investment accounts are supported through Personal Capital? There are many: both individual and joint non-retirement counts; Roth, traditional, SEP, and rollover IRAs; and trusts.
Through your Personal Capital investments, you can expect a healthy range in your portfolio. For example, when buying U.S. equities, they buy a diversified sample of at least 70 individual stocks that epitomize their tactical weighting approach and optimize your account for tax purposes.
Personal Capital also only purchases liquid securities, so that if you ever need to access cash quickly, you can receive funds within a settlement period of just one to three days.
Funds are held by Pershing Advisor Solutions, a Bank of New York Mellon Company. It is one of the largest U.S. custodians and currently holds more than a trillion dollars in global client assets.
Tax Optimization Strategies
Personal Capital uses several techniques and strategies to ensure clients are optimizing their taxes on investments. First, they entirely avoid mutual funds, which they regard as inefficient for tax purposes. Their asset location is personalized whether you have taxable accounts or retirement accounts.
For example, Personal Capital typically places high-yielding accounts and fixed income into a tax-deferred or exempt account. REITs are also generally placed in a retirement account because they pay nonqualified dividends.
Finally, Personal Capital utilizes tax-loss harvesting, meaning they use individual securities that realize losses and can, therefore, offset gains or provide a tax deduction.
Special Features
You can take advantage of some of Personal Capital’s online resources without even becoming a client. Just by creating a Personal Capital account, you can link all of your financial accounts for an investment checkup.
The program analyzes your bank accounts, credit cards, and investments to create recommendations on your asset allocations. You can then choose whether to make those adjustments to your investments.
Additionally, you can check holistically on how your investments are performing by considering how much you’re charged in fees. You can do this in one of two ways.
The first is through the Mutual Fund Analyzer, which you can compare performance (with fees) against the broader markets. Then you can use the general Fee Analyzer to see what you’re being charged on your non-taxable retirement accounts.
You can also use Personal Capital for a budget check-up that analyzes your saving and spending. You can even incorporate their Retirement Planner for long-term savings projections.
You’ll be provided with several scenarios, including best-case, worst-case, and most likely. It gives you a good idea of what you could potentially expect when you’re finally ready to retire.
All of these features run through the Personal Capital financial dashboard, so you can get a holistic view of your entire financial picture. You can use them on their mobile app or website.
Some of their investment management tools include a 401(k) Analyzer, Retirement Planner, Investment Checkup, Net Worth Calculator. Moreover, you still have the ability to contact a personal financial advisor.
As we mentioned earlier, Personal Capital implements five distinct strategies for investing. Learn a bit more about each one to get a better grasp of how your money would be managed by this advisor.
Modern Portfolio Theory
The prime directive here is to create an efficient portfolio for clients while yielding the highest possible return for the lowest possible risk.
Personal Capital works with six asset classes to provide this equilibrium, which are all meant to be liquid and broadly investible. These asset classes are U.S. stocks and bonds, international stocks and bonds, alternatives (including ETFs and commodities), and cash for liquidity.
Personalized Asset Allocation
There’s a reason the company is called Personal Capital: they understand that no two investors are exactly alike. That’s why they look at your individual data and financial goals to balance your portfolio’s risk and growth.
They use a proprietary Retirement Planner software that analyzes your spending and savings habits in addition to your projected income. This helps you determine what your financial future looks like and what you may need to change to reach your future goals.
Tax Optimization
We mentioned earlier that Personal Capital optimizes your taxes by using tax-loss harvesting and asset location, as well as avoiding mutual funds.
In fact, these steps could boost your annual returns by as much as 1%. While many financial advisors use one or two of these tactics, Personal Capital offers a truly robust strategy to make your portfolio more tax efficient.
Equal Sector and Style Weighting
Personal Capital’s strategy for diversification involves equalizing the composition of your portfolio by sector, size, and style.
The goal is to prevent bubbles and other volatile conditions from adversely affecting your investments too much. Likewise, they don’t rely on a few large companies, but instead spread out U.S. stock investments between 70 and 100 different stocks.
Disciplined Rebalancing
Your portfolio receives a daily review for any potential rebalancing needs. For high-level assets, they’re typically rebalanced when they deviate more than a few percentage points from the target.
Specific securities receive a smaller margin and are reviewed after just a 0.5% move from the target. Having a systematic review allows you to maximize your ability to buy low and sell high.
Who is Personal Capital best for?
Personal Capital offers truly extensive services for high net worth investors, particularly considering the low percentage of fees charged. This is especially true if you’re an investor with several million dollars in assets and who likes to have easy access to a dedicated financial advisory.
After all, in the Private Client tier of $1 million+, you can get advice on just about anything related to your finances, whether it’s about retirement, real estate, or anything in between.
That’s on top of the personalized asset management, so you have a one-stop-shop of both automated algorithms and a human point of contact who understands the larger picture concerning your finances.
Personal Capital also makes it easy for this type of investor to remain passive. If you appreciate their investment management and like how the allocation and review processes, then you don’t have to do much on your own.
If you are new to trading stocks, the sheer volume of stock market terms can be off-putting. But learning some basic stock trading terminology is a great place to begin before investing any money. For any new investor just getting into trading, getting a grasp on some basic stock market terms can be extremely helpful.
The Significance of Knowing Stock Market Terminology
It’s important to have at least a grasp of some basic stock market terms if you plan on trading or investing. If you don’t do a bit of homework beforehand, you may find yourself feeling in over your head, and grasping for help from family members, friends, or a financial professional.
While there are a multitude of different stock market terms out there, it isn’t terribly difficult to develop an understanding of the basics. Yes, it’ll take some time and practice, but like learning anything else, once you get the hang of it, it should become easier as you move along in your investment journey. 💡 Quick Tip: Investment fees are assessed in different ways, including trading costs, account management fees, and possibly broker commissions. When you set up an investment account, be sure to get the exact breakdown of your “all-in costs” so you know what you’re paying.
Fundamental Terms
To get a fundamental understanding of the stock market, it can be helpful to start with some relatively basic terms, including the following.
Asset Allocation
Asset allocation involves investing across asset classes in a portfolio in order to balance the different potential risks and returns, and there are three main asset classes, which are typically stocks, bonds, and cash. Asset allocation is closely tied with portfolio diversification.
Asset Classes
There are several asset classes, or types of assets, that investors can invest in. This can include, but is not limited to, stocks, bonds, money market accounts, cash, real estate, commodities, and more. You can also think of certain assets as equities, debt securities, and more.
Bid
Bid, in the context of bid-ask spread, refers to the “bid price” that an investor is willing to pay for a security or investment.
Ask
Ask, in the context of bid-ask spread, is the opposite of bid, and is the lowest price that investors are willing to sell a security for.
Bid-Ask Spread
The bid-ask spread is the difference between the bid and ask price, and can be a measure of liquidity. When the bid and ask prices match, a sale takes place, on a first-come basis if there is more than one buyer. The bid-ask spread is the difference between the highest price a buyer is willing to bid, and the lowest price a seller is willing to ask.
Market Phrases
There are a number of market phrases, or types of jargon that may be used in and around the stock market, too. Here are some examples.
Bull Market
A bull market describes market conditions when a market index rises by at least 20% over two months or more, and is often used to describe high levels of confidence and optimism among investors.
Bear Market
A bear market describes a 20% fall in a market index, and is the opposite of a bull market. It can signal overall pessimism among investors.
Market Volatility
Market volatility refers to how much a market index’s value increases or decreases within a specific period of time. Volatility can occur for a number of reasons.
Investment Vehicles
There are many specific investment vehicles that investors should know about, too, including different types of stocks, bonds, and more.
Bonds
Bonds are a type of debt security, which effectively means that investors are loaning money to the issuer. There are many types of bonds, and they’re often considered to be a less-risky investment alternative to, say, stocks.
Common Stock
Common stock, also known as shares or equity, is like owning a piece of a company. You purchase stock in a company, and receive a proportional part of that corporation’s assets and earnings. The price of stock is different for each company and fluctuates over time.
Preferred Stock
Preferred stock is similar to common stock, but usually grants shareholders some sort of preferential treatment, such as advanced dividend payments, and more.
ETFs
ETFs, or “exchange-traded funds,” are types of funds that trade on exchanges like stocks. Investors can purchase shares of ETFs, which incorporate numerous different types of securities (like a “basket” of different investments), and may offer built-in diversification as an advantage for investors.
Mutual Funds
Mutual funds are companies or entities that pool money from numerous different investors and then invest it on their behalf. A manager oversees a mutual fund, and actively manages it. Investors can purchase shares of mutual funds, which are similar to ETFs in many ways.
Stock Analysis Terms
Analyzing the stock market incorporates its own set of terminology, and it can be helpful for investors to know a bit of the vernacular.
Earnings Per Share (EPS)
Earnings per share, often shortened as “EPS,” is a ratio that helps determine a company’s ability to drive profits for shareholders. It’s a common and oft-cited business metric for investors.
Dividends
A dividend is a payment made from a company to its shareholders, often drawn from earnings. Usually, these are made in cash, but sometimes they are paid out as additional stock shares. They are typically paid on an annual or quarterly basis, and typically only come from more established companies, not startups.
Dividend Yield
Dividend yield refers to how much a company pays out to shareholders on an annual basis relative to its share price. It’s a ratio that’s calculated by dividing the company’s dividend by its share price.
The Price-to-earnings (P/E) Ratio
The price-to-earnings ratio (often written as the P/E ratio, PER, or P/E) is a ratio of a company’s current share price relative to the company’s earnings per share. It can be used to compare performances of different companies. 💡 Quick Tip: When you’re actively investing in stocks, it’s important to ask what types of fees you might have to pay. For example, brokers may charge a flat fee for trading stocks, or require some commission for every trade. Taking the time to manage investment costs can be beneficial over the long term.
Price Movements and Pattern Terms
There are also a number of movement and pattern terms that investors may want to familiarize themselves with.
Trading Volume
Trading volume refers to how much trading is happening on an exchange. For a stock trading on a stock exchange, the stock volume is typically reported as the number of shares that changed hands during any given day. It’s important to note that even with an increasing price, if it’s paired with a decreasing volume, that can mean a lack of interest in a stock. A price increase or drop on a larger volume day (i.e., a bigger trading day) is a potential signal that the stock has changed dramatically.
Volume-weighted Average Price (VWAP)
Volume-weighted average price, or VWAP, is a short-term price trend indicator used when analyzing intraday, or same-day, stock charts. It’s a type of technical analysis indicator.
Trading Order Types and Execution
Investors need to know the types of orders that they’re likely to use throughout their investing journey. Those include market orders, limit orders, and stop-loss orders.
Market Order
A market order is the most common type of order, and it means that an investor wants to buy or sell a security as soon as possible at the current market price.
Limit Order
Limit orders are another common type of order, and involve an investor placing an order to buy or sell a security at a specific price or within a specific time frame. There are two types: Buy limit orders, and sell limit orders.
Stop-loss Orders
Stop-loss orders, or sometimes called stop orders, are orders that specify a security to be sold at a certain price.
Day Trading Terms
For the prospective day-trader, there are a slate of terms to know as well.
Day Trading
Day trading involves an investor making short-term trades on a daily or weekly basis in an effort to generate returns off of price fluctuations in the market. There are numerous day trading strategies that investors can utilize.
Pattern Day Trader
A pattern day trader is a designation created by FINRA, and refers to traders who trade securities four or more times within five days. There are rules and stipulations that pattern day traders, and their chosen trading platforms, must follow.
Trading Halt
A trading halt can refer to a specific stock or the entire market, and involves a halt to all trading activity for an indefinite period of time.
Long-term Investment Terms
The opposite of day trading, long-term investing also ropes in its own jargon.
Averaging Down
Averaging down involves a scenario in which an investor already owns some stock but then purchases additional stock after the price has dropped. It results in a decrease in the overall average price for which you purchased the company stock. Investors can profit if the company’s price subsequently recovers.
Diversification
Diversification refers to investing in a wide range of assets and asset classes, as opposed to concentrating investments in a specific area or class.
Dollar-cost Averaging
Dollar-cost averaging is a strategy to manage volatility in a portfolio, and involves regularly investing in the same security at different times, but with the identical amount. Effectively, the cost of those investments will average out over time.
Derivatives and Market Predictors
Getting into the weeds now — derivatives and market predictors are more high-level market elements, but it can be helpful to know some of the terminology.
Futures
Futures, or futures contracts, are a form of derivatives that are a contract between two traders, agreeing to buy or sell an asset at a specific price at a future date.
Options Trading
Options trading involves buying and selling options contracts, of which there are many types.
Arbitrage
Arbitrage refers to price differences in the same asset on different markets. Traders may be able to take advantage of those differences to generate returns.
Financial Health Indicators
We’re not done yet — these terms involve financial health indicators.
Debt-to-equity (D/E)
Debt-to-equity is a financial metric that helps investors determine risks with a specific stock, and is calculated by dividing a company’s equity by its debts.
Liquidity
Market liquidity is essentially how easily shares of stock can be converted to cash. The market for a stock is “liquid” if its shares can be sold quickly, and the act of selling only minimally impacts the stock price.
Profit Margin
Profit margin refers to how much profit is generated from a trade when expenses are considered. Lowering related expenses can increase profit margin, all else being equal.
Economic Terms
Knowing some key economic terms can be helpful when trying to size up larger economic and market trends.
Volatility
Volatility refers to the range of a stock price’s change over time. If the price stays stable, then the stock has low volatility. If the price jumps from high to low and then back to high often, it would be considered more of a high-volatility stock.
Economic Bubbles
Economic bubbles or market bubbles are often created by widespread speculative trading, and involve a runup or buildup of prices for a given asset, which can be detached from its actual value. Eventually, the bubble tends to burst and investors may incur a loss.
Recession
A recession is a period of economic contraction, and is usually accompanied by higher unemployment rates, business failures, and lower gross domestic product figures. Recessions are officially declared by the Business Cycle Dating Committee at the National Bureau of Economic Research.
Adaptation and Risk Management
For particularly savvy investors, knowing some terms relating to adaptation and risk management can also be helpful when navigating the markets.
Sector Rotation
Sector rotation involves investing in different sectors of the economy at different times, and rotating holdings between those sectors in an effort to generate the biggest returns.
Hedging
Hedging is an investment strategy that involves limiting risk exposure within different parts of a portfolio, and there are many methods or strategies for doing so.
The Takeaway
Learning some basic stock market terms can go a long way toward helping an investor navigate the markets, and there are a lot of terms and jargon to get familiar with. But doing a bit of homework early on can be enormously helpful so that you’re not trying to figure things out on the fly as an investor.
While you’re not going to learn everything right off the bat, if you start to spend a lot of time investing and trading, you’re likely to quickly catch on to certain terms, while others will come with time. As always, if you have questions, you can reach out to a financial professional for help — or do a bit more research on your own.
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Inside: Learn how much to effectively patch a tire. Get insights on DIY or professional tire repair to make an informed decision.
You walk outside ready to drive away- only to quickly realize a nail has punctured your tire! This is so incredibly frustrating.
This summer it happened to me not once, but twice!
Not only does it pose a potential safety risk owing to reduced fuel efficiency and poor handling, but it can also substantially disrupt your day by necessitating an unexpected trip to the tire repair shop.
From my experience, you can learn how much patching a tire costs.
What is Tire Patching?
Patching a tire involves repairing a puncture in the tread area of the tire. A patch, typically a rubber material, is installed on the inside of the tire after the puncture has been located and repaired.
This tire plug repair method is used to seal the puncture, preventing the tire from losing air, and extending the life of the tire significantly. Patching tires is a cost-effective solution that helps vehicle owners maintain their tires without burning a hole in their pocket.
Quick Answer
Patching a tire DIY can cost as little as $6 if you have most of the tools, but having the job done at an auto repair shop, which includes labor time and professional expertise, ranges from $20-$40.
You can patch a tire for free if you go to the company that installed your tires.
Common Causes for Tire Damage
Tires suffer damage due to a variety of reasons. One of the primary culprits is road hazards, such as nails, screws, or shards of glass leading to punctures – a scenario that can cause a slow leak or even a sudden blowout if the object creates a large hole.
Bumps in the road, severe weather conditions, improper storage, or simple wear and tear due to age can also result in tire damage. Moreover, tire bead issues, where the bead that holds the tire to the wheel’s rim slips and becomes damaged due to improper inflation, can also give rise to serious issues affecting the car’s ride, handling, and safety.
Regular visual checks of your tires can help spot signs of imminent damage like cuts, punctures, cracks, or bulges.
Why Patch a Tire? Potential Risks of Ignoring Tire Damage
Ignoring tire damage can lead to serious repercussions. A damaged tire can drastically affect the performance and handling of your vehicle, compromising ride comfort and fuel efficiency.
The most immediate danger, however, is the increased likelihood of a tire blowout. I have been there – remember the Ford Explorer tire issues?1 I was on the highway and thankfully was able to stop safely thanks to another driver who slowed down so my SUV could hobble to the side and roll to a stop safely. The severity of this situation cannot be emphasized enough.
This can happen when driving on a severely damaged or worn tire (or tire malfunction) – a situation that can lead to a serious accident. Additionally, driving with damaged tires can cause uneven wear and tear on other tires, possibly increasing your maintenance costs in the long run. Remember, while the cost of a new tire may seem steep, it’s a worthy investment in your safety.
How to Diagnose a Damaged Tire
Step #1: Finding the Leak
Locating a leak in a tire involves a careful and systematic process. First and foremost, mechanics use their senses to determine the origin of the leak. They inflate the tire to make it easier to find leaks because the air tends to escape more prominently from them or use a bubble solution. Next, they visually inspect the tire for any cuts, holes, or objects sticking out, like nails or screws.
Aside from a visual inspection, mechanics also listen for a distinctive hissing sound – a clear indication of escaping air. If the leak isn’t immediately visible or audible, a soapy water test can be performed. This involves mixing water and dish soap in a spray bottle, inflating the tire, and spraying the solution over it. Bubbles will begin to form where the air escapes, clearly identifying the location of the leak.
Step #2: Checking the Extent of the Puncture
Determining the extent of a puncture is crucial in detecting whether a patch repair will suffice or if a tire replacement is needed. A mechanic will typically measure the size of the puncture; if the wound is larger than 1/4 inch in diameter, a patch may not effectively seal the tire.
The mechanic will also check the location of the puncture. Punctures close to or on the sidewall are usually non-repairable, primarily because the flexing of the sidewall could cause repaired areas to break open. The structure of the tire could also be compromised, making it unfit for a patch.
Any internal damage, such as severe abrasions, penetrations, or bruising, can not be repaired. Certain punctures made by large, sharp objects, or those resulting from a high-speed impact, may also leave the tire beyond repair.
Further, tires that have already undergone a certain number of repairs should not be patched again, as they risk losing their essential strength, leading to possible tire failure while driving.
How long can I drive with a nail in my tire?
When you find a nail in your tire, your immediate concern is often: how far can I continue to drive? Though there’s no definitive answer, driving with a nail in your tire isn’t advised. The nail can cause the tire to lose air slowly over time, negatively impacting the vehicle’s fuel efficiency and handling, and even leading to a tire blowout.
While it might be possible to drive for a few miles, or even a few days in some cases (depending on the nail’s size, location, and the tire’s condition), you should address the situation as soon as you notice it to prevent further deterioration.
The safest course of action is to drive slowly and carefully to the nearest tire repair shop. Do not attempt to remove the nail yourself as that could potentially worsen the damage and make the tire irreparable.
Remember, safety should be a driver’s primary concern, not the inconvenience of a tire repair.
Can Your Tire Be Patched?
Factors Determining Patch-ability
When determining whether a tire can be patched, several factors come into play. Here are a few key elements that determine the patch-ability of a tire:
Location of the Puncture: Tires can only be patched if the damage is confined to the tread area. Punctures in the shoulder or sidewall are not patchable due to the immense pressure these areas bear while driving.
Size of the Puncture: The size of the puncture greatly affects whether a tire can be patched. Generally, punctures up to 1/4 inch in diameter can be repaired, but anything larger than that cannot.
Number of Punctures: A tire with multiple punctures may not be patchable. Each case is unique, and a professional should evaluate the tire to determine if and how it can be repaired.
Angle of the Puncture: The angle of the puncture also plays a role. If the angle is strange or the puncture goes in sideways, patching may not be the best solution.
Overall Condition of the Tires: If the tire has already endured a patch near the current hole, or the sidewalls have serious damage or bulging, a patch may not suffice and a tire replacement could be needed. Also, if the tread depth is already at or beyond the wear bars, even a simple puncture can mean the end of the tire’s useful life.
Remember, always bring your tire to a professional for evaluation and repair. Proper inspection and repair are vital to ensuring the continued safety and performance of your tires.
When Not To Patch
It’s important to understand that not all tire damages can or should be patched. There are situations where patching a tire is not advisable or safe. These situations include:
A Puncture at an Odd Angle: If the hole is at a strange or awkward angle, a patch may not seal the hole effectively, leading to air loss.
Severe Sidewall Damage: A tire’s sidewall is a critical part of its construction, and if severely damaged, patching would not be able to restore its structural integrity.
Bulges or Bubbles in the Rubber: Bulges or bubbles indicate structural failure within the layers of the tire. Since these faults are on the inside, a patch cannot rectify the problem.
A Patch Near the Current Puncture: If your tire has already been patched near the current hole, applying another patch might compromise the integrity of the tire and its ability to carry load reliably.
Multiple Issues at Once: Your tire might be experiencing a second issue along with the puncture, like unbalanced wear, tread separation, or other structural failings. In such a case, it would be safer and more economical to replace it.
Always remember, when in doubt about whether to patch or not, consult a professional tire technician to ensure the safety and longevity of your tires.
Cost Breakdown of Tire Patching
Free With Purchase of Tires
One of the most advantageous aspects of maintaining your tires is that they can actually be free of charge at the location where you bought your tires.
For instance, if you’ve bought your tires and had them installed at Costco, you are entitled to free flat tire patching. This service comes as an extension of their commitment to customers, and their affordable prices make them a thrifty option to consider.
Discount Tire is another prominent name when it comes to economical and quality services. You can get your tire inspected for free here, and if a tire patch is the solution, they will repair your tire without charging you a penny if you bought those tires with them.
This service goes a long way in saving their customers’ hard-earned money and reinforces their reputation as a budget-friendly grandstand in the automotive industry.
Tire Repair Shop
A substantial part of the tire repair cost at a tire repair shop is majorly attributed to the mechanic’s labor charges. While a tire patch job takes approximately 15 minutes, the cost of shop overhead costs is the biggest expense.
You can expect to pay between $20-$40 for this service. While traveling, we paid $25 to fix a nail in the tire.
However, just remember, that you are paying for the mechanic’s expertise, and time dedicated to the repair which primarily constitutes the cost.
At Home Repair Costs
Materials you’ll need are a tire patch kit, a pair of pliers, a car jack, a lug wrench, soapy water, and a spray bottle. Optionally, a tire marker can be useful.
The retail value of these tire repair materials can range around $6. The pricier items would be if you have the supplies to jack up the car or proper wrenches.
Many people who drive beater cars have become good and maintain their car to lower their costs.
Other potential expenditures
Apart from the primary costs of labor and materials, there may be other expenditures while patching a tire. One such possible fee is the cost of tire rebalancing. When tires have been removed and replaced or repaired, they should be rebalanced to ensure smooth and optimal vehicle performance. This service might add around $100 to your overall bill.
Moreover, in some cases, there could be a tire disposal fee. Suppose, after inspection, the professional deems your tire beyond repair and it needs to be replaced, the old tire has to be discarded properly. Many shops handle this disposal but might charge a small fee (usually around $2-$5) for the service.
DIY Process of Tire Patching – How to Patch a Tire at Home
If you choose to do it yourself, here are the steps to take.
Removing and Dismounting the Tire
Remove the Tire from the Vehicle: To remove the tire from the vehicle, first, you’ll need to loosen the lug nuts with a wrench while the vehicle is on the ground. Once they’re loosened, raise the car with a jack. Now you can fully remove the lug nuts and pull the wheel from the vehicle.
Release the Air: With the tire removed, you need to let the air out by removing the valve stem core with a special removal tool. This will lead to a complete release of tire pressure.
Break the Bead: Breaking the bead, which refers to the seal between the tire and the wheel rim, is the next step. This can be done with a tire spoon and a hammer. The bead must be broken on both sides before the tire can come off the rim.
Remove the Tire from the Rim: This is done using levers or specialized tire removing tools. You must carefully insert the tools and lever the tire off the rim.
Remember, while the dismounting process might seem easy, it requires careful attention and certain specialized tools. It’s advised to have a tire repair professional handle this job to ensure safety and precision.
Applying the Tire Patch
Once the tire has been removed and dismounted, the next step involves the application of the tire patch. This process is as follows:
Preparation of the Area: The area around the puncture inside the tire is prepped by cleaning and roughening up a bit. This cleaning is essential to ensure the patch will adhere securely. The punctured area should be buffed with a grinding stone or sanding tool strong enough to bring the inner liner to a velvet-like finish.
Clean Dust and Debris: Using an air blow gun, all dust and debris need to be cleaned from the tire, especially those left by the buffing process.
Applying the Patch: An adhesive cement needs to be applied to the prepped area before the patch. Once the cement has dried to a tacky touch, the patch is applied. The patch, on its sticky side, has to be applied towards the interior side of the tire at the punctured spot.
Rolling the Patch: After the patch has been placed, a roller is used over it to remove any possible air bubbles trapped between the patch and the liner. This is important for ensuring optimum adhesion.
Apply Sealant: A sealant is applied around the edges of the tire patch to further secure it and to ensure that no air can escape from around the patch.
Each patch needs a different type of cement and a different style of application. Thoroughly read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions while applying the specific patch.
Remember, if you don’t feel comfortable doing this process yourself, a professional can easily and quickly do it for you.
Reinstalling the Patched Tire
After the patched tire has been given sufficient time to dry and cure, it’s ready to be reinstalled. Here’s how it’s done:
Mount the Tire: Using a tire-changing machine, mount the tire back onto the wheel rim. Ensure the valve stem is pulled through its hole in the rim, and the bead of the tire is properly seated.
Inflate the Tire: Next, inflate the tire to the appropriate air pressure – typically, the recommended pressure is indicated on a placard on the vehicle’s door edge, doorpost, glove box, or fuel door.
Rebalance the Tire: The process of patching may have unbalanced the tire. So, it’s prudent to have the tire checked for balance. This is done using a balancing machine that spins the wheel and tire.
Reattach the Tire: Reattach the wheel with the patched tire onto the vehicle. Apply even pressure while screwing the lug nuts back on in a star pattern for even distribution of the load. Lastly, using a torque wrench, securely tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer’s recommended torque.
Drive the Vehicle: Initially, carry out a test drive at a slow speed to make sure the repair was successful. Listen for strange noises and feel for abrupt shaking. If all seems well, resume your regular driving.
Remember that even though patching a tire may seem simple, it requires specialized tools, time, and expertise. If you don’t have the proper tools, it may be more cost-effective and reliable to have the tire patched by a professional.
Tips to Maintain your Tires and Avoid Frequent Patches
Tip #1 – Regular Checks and Balancing
Routine tire checks and balancing can go a long way in prolonging your tires’ life and reducing the need for patches.
Regular checks help you identify and address minor issues like lower tire pressures, slow leaks, or tire damages early before they worsen into more significant problems. Make it a point to visually inspect your tires at least once a month and before long trips.
Balancing your tires is equally crucial – an imbalanced tire can cause vibrations, uneven tire wear, and strain on the car’s suspension. It is recommended to have your tires balanced every 12,000 miles, or when the car has issues with steering wheel vibrations.
Tip #2 – Timely Tire Rotations
Another critical preventive maintenance task to prolong the life of your tires is timely tire rotations. Rotating your tires can help achieve more uniform tire tread wear, which extends their lifespan and improves your vehicle’s performance.
Typically, tires should be rotated every 5,000 to 8,000 miles or as specified by your vehicle’s manufacturer. During the rotation, tires are moved from one position on the vehicle to another – for example, the front tires to the rear and vice versa.
Since front tires often wear out quicker than rear tires due to weight distribution and turning forces, this rotation helps evenly distribute the wear across all tires. Regular rotations not just prolong your tire lifespan but also improve gas mileage, provide an improved ride experience, and mean you’re less likely to experience sudden tire failure.
I just add this task to my digital planner with how many miles were on the car when the tires were rotated.
Tip #3 – Proper Inflation and Pressure Maintenance
Maintaining correct tire pressure is a crucial aspect of tire care that can drastically improve your vehicle’s performance, fuel efficiency, and tire longevity. Both over inflation and underinflation pose risks to the safety and wear of your tires.
Underinflated tires can lead to poor fuel efficiency, reduced handling, and increased tire wear.
Overinflated tires, on the other hand, can make your vehicle more susceptible to impact damage. You should check your tire pressure at least once a month and before long trips.
Thankfully, many of the newer vehicles will have this in your dash to monitor. The old-fashioned way is to use a reliable tire pressure gauge and refer to your vehicle’s manual or the placard on the driver’s side door post for the correct pressure.
Frequently Asked Questions
The longevity of a tire patch significantly varies depending upon the quality of the patch, the skill of the person who installed the patch, and the driving conditions. Generally, a tire patch can last between 7 to 10 years if installed correctly. However, just like any repair, a tire patch’s lifespan can also be influenced by factors such as the size of the puncture, driving habits, and road conditions.
Regular inspection and maintenance can help in timely detection of any issues, maintaining your tire’s performance and your safety on the road.
Yes, under appropriate circumstances, it is absolutely safe to drive on a patched tire. In fact, a properly patched tire is safe to drive on indefinitely, as the repair is considered permanent.
Remember, when it comes to any doubt about the safety or performance of a patched tire, it’s best to consult with a tire professional.
The answer to whether a tire with more than one puncture can be repaired is – it depends. Generally, it is possible to repair a tire with more than one puncture as long as the punctures are at least 16 inches apart. This distance is necessary to maintain the integrity of the tire structure without risking a tire failure due to stress concentration in one area.
However, if there are more than two punctures, or if the punctures are closer than permitted, the tire may need to be replaced. Multiple punctures can compromise the tire’s structural integrity, increasing the risk of a blowout.
Regardless, every situation is unique, and whether a tire can be patched, and how, should always best be determined by a professional. Understanding and respecting the potential risks associated with patching a tire with more than one puncture is vital to ensure safety on the road.
Isn’t Patching a Tire Fun?
Don’t forget to use your spare tire if the pressure cannot be maintained in the tire.
Indeed, patching a tire may seem an intriguing and rewarding experience, especially for those with a knack for DIY activities. However, even when it looks like an easy fix, tire patching involves meticulous examination, skill, and a proper understanding of safety measures.
Your tires are your vehicle’s sole point of contact with the road, and their health directly impacts your vehicle’s performance and your safety. So whether you’re patching a tire using a tire repair kit at home or taking it to a professional, it’s essential to ensure the job is executed correctly.
Remember, that car is an asset!
When it comes to tires, no quick fixes are worth risking your safety. Here are better ways to start saving money.
Source
Wikipedia. “Firestone and Ford tire controversy.” https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Firestone_and_Ford_tire_controversy. Accessed January 9, 2024.
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We’re all aware that there are vast differences in what’s considered normal around the world, and most of us have even noticed that there are differences in normal between families, small towns, different schools, etc. But have you ever found yourself in the midst of your own country or even your family and wondered How is that just normal? Well, we’re with you. Whether it’s something as seemingly inconsequential as a particular gesture, or more dramatic such as customs surrounding celebrations, it’s pretty common to feel like the odd one out a some point. So stick with us; we’re examining some of the things people find normal that we just can’t get used to.
1. Spitting Loogies
One user shared, “Spitting, especially loogies. I literally almost throw up when I see someone doing it.”
Ok, we’re with you on that one. We know everybody has their own preferences and we’re not here to stop you, but spitting really just baffles us.
2. Holding a Bag of Dog Waste
One Redditor user said, “On colder days when my dad walks the dog, he’ll sometimes hold the dog [waste] bag in his hands to warm his hands.”
Another user commented, “This is deeply disturbing.”
Fortunately, it seems only that commenter’s dad thinks this is normal. Frankly, we’ve never heard of anyone else doing this and we don’t plan to make it any more widespread than it already is. That’s just uncomfortable and gross.
3. Writing With Chalk
“Perhaps not gross, but I am repulsed by holding chalk and writing on a chalkboard. The touch, the feel, the sound, everything,” posted by one Redditor.
Another user shared, “We just got new dishes a couple of months back and the bottom is the raw clay feeling. That terrible gritty sandpaper-like texture. I can hardly use the plates without shivering and getting weirded out.”
There are a lot of odd textures out there, and while they don’t bother a lot of people, when they do bother you it’s almost impossible to forget about.
4. Parents Monetizing Kids on YouTube
One user pointed out, “People monetizing their kids on YouTube.”
Another user replied, “This should be a top comment.”
To be fair, that’s definitely a gray area. But we definitely feel a lot of sympathy for those kids, having to grow up in the spotlight, and sometimes in really vulnerable and uncomfortable ways. We’ll say this much for sure: people’s kids should never have to be publicly uncomfortable just to help their parents make a buck. Providing for the family is the job of an adult, and kids aren’t responsible to help with expenses by performing.
5 When Someone Else Washes My Dishes
One user stated, “When someone else ‘washes’ my dishes for me and I drink from a ‘clean’ glass, and it smells of rotting food and I look at my sponge and it’s covered in food because someone thought that smearing food around my dishes with a sponge somehow made them clean you’re all fired I never want to see you again.”
Sanitation is no joke when you’re washing the dishes. Sponges are great, but you’ve got to keep them clean in order to really clean the dishes you’re washing. And if you’re washing dishes in somebody else’s home to show them you care, go the extra mile and make sure you wash the dishes they way that they like them washed.
6. Wearing Big Engagement Rings Without Cleaning Them
“Wearing those big-a- engagement rings and never properly cleaning them. Especially in a hospital, nobody should be wearing anything below the elbow for good hand hygiene. I can’t imagine how many germs live between all those diamonds that are now spreading to my patients. Just take it all off, leave them at home!” one online user stated.
Another user confirmed and replied, “Omg, so many patients just leave their rings on for years, and then the stones are filled with lotion, dead skin, and grease.”
Besides the important sanitary concerns, did you know your ring will sparkle so much more if you clean it regularly? Most jewelers will offer free cleanings for any rings or jewelry you’ve purchased through them, and otherwise the price is very low, often as cheap as five dollars to get your whole ring polished and looking good as new again.
7 the Sound of Chewing
One user posted, “The sound of people chewing,”
Another user responded, “Ugh, eating with mouth open …”
Honestly, that’s just good manners. There’s definitely an etiquette to chewing. If you’re alone in the privacy of your own home, then be considerate of anyone else around you while you’re eating.
8. Children With Snotty Faces
“Children with food on their face. And snot,” one user shared.
Another user stated, “As a parent, we find it gross too. We’re just tired of cleaning it 900 times a day.”
9. When Clothes Smell Musty
One Redditor posted, “Maybe not ‘normal’ but I am repulsed by the smell created by clothing not correctly drying. The scent is on clothing that sat in the washer machine too long. Or dish towels and bathroom towels that dried without being spread out. I smell it on people from down the aisle in stores. And don’t get me started on drying my hands in someone’s bathroom and finding out the smell is lingering on my hands now.”
Granted, some people have this harder for others. For example, the southwest United States is much less humid than other parts of the country, and that makes drying clothes and towels much faster and easier. In other locations, it’s more challenging to get clothes and linens completely dry and it takes some effort not to smell musty.
10. Constantly Spitting
One user said, “Spitting. I feel physically ill when I witness someone hawking and spitting in public or see spit sitting on the pavement.”
Another user added, “My friend is always doing this. I’m less disgusted than I am confused. I’ve never felt the need to spit spontaneously, lol.”
While we’re here, could somebody tell us why they spit all the time? Is there a good reason for this? From the outside it seems like a pretty unnecessary habit, so please enlighten us.
11. Licking Fingers to Turn a Page
“Licking their fingers to turn a page. Turns my stomach!” one Redditor shared.
Another user added, “Or counting money. F- filthy.”
Ok, fair enough.. If you need to lick your fingers for any reason, please wash your hands afterwards. Keep the germs from spreading and be considerate of others.
12. Not Washing Hands Before a Meal
One Commenter mentioned, “Not washing hands before a meal. You have been in filth, and you are going to touch your food with those hands? Yuk.”
Another replied, “Also, not washing your hands when cooking food. I can’t understand how people just start cooking food for other people without doing it.”
13. Not Rinsing the Soap Suds off Dishes
One user added, “Washing dishes in a tub of soapy water and not rinsing off the soap suds. Or not scrubbing the outsides of pots and pans as well. Makes me want to vomit. I’d rather not taste stale soap and bacteria in my cup of tea or food, thanks. I can always tell as well.“
Soap always leaves a residue, and yea, most of us can taste it. It’s such a strong flavor and it adds an unpleasant taste to anything you eat or drink from that dish. It seems Washing dishes is more of an art than maybe we first thought.
14. Coughing Without Covering
“Spitting, coughing without covering your mouth. I have multiple sclerosis. Get sick really easily,” one user added.
Another user agreed, “I work in a hospital. I still wear a mask the entire work day. I’ve been asked “why” over & over, told that I don’t have to do that anymore, so-called a sheep, & various other comments. My job is directly in patient’s bubbles. The mask does prevent being a direct hit from bodily fluids, helps with the unpleasant outdoors, & hides my facial expressions from exposure to those things.”
Ok, that’s a pretty fair assessment. If you’re working with people’s bodies and fluids, it only makes sense to be as protected as you can.
15. Not Washing Your Hands After Going to the Bathroom
A user commented, “Not washing your hands after going to the bathroom. Nasty.”
Another user shared, “I would hope everyone finds this nasty …”
What can we say; there’s a reason stores and restaurants have signs reminding employees to wash their hands. It’s both less common than we could wish, and much more gross than some people seem to think.
16. Employers Paying New Hires More Than Current Employees
One user stated, “Employers paying new hires more than tenured employees. Having drastically different pay rates for people with similar credentials doing the same job.”
Another user added, “Not entirely the same, but my first job was at a McDonald’s. I was making, I think, like, 5.45 an hour? One of my friends at the time got hired on at 6/hr. I approached the manager about it, and he said, ‘It was a mistake, but I can’t increase your pay or decrease theirs. Also, who told you about it?’ He made clear in his tone he intended to punish the person that told me, and I didn’t say s-.”
17 Wearing Sneakers Without Socks
“Wearing sneakers without socks. Ugh! The sweat stinks,” one user shared.
Another user replied, “Agreed. But Most of the time you see that; they’re probably just wearing no-shows.”
We agree with both commenters; most of the time people are wearing no-show socks. And if they’re not wearing socks at all, that’s about to smell terrible. Even shoes you’ve only worn with socks tend to smell terrible after a while. But if you really have make that fashion choice, rest assured there are plenty of stinky-shoe remedies online to rescue you.
18. Childbirth
One Redditor stated, “Childbirth. We’re all here because of it, and it’s currently my day job to catch a baby or two per day, but [holy cow] is it like watching a woman’s [body] go through Vietnam each time.”
One user added, “Time for a game of ‘child-snatcher or midwife?’”
It’s true that watching childbirth can be an uncomfortable process, but birth is truly a normal part of life. Like the commenter said, without birth none of us would be here, so we have our mothers to thank for going through all that struggle for us.
19. Kissing Pets on the Mouth
“Kissing pets in their mouth,” shared one user.
Another user posted, “What everyone’s dad didn’t say, ‘I just saw that dog eating s- outside,’ every time this happens … “
No offense to the pet parents out there, but there’s definitely a lot of germs not only in cats’ and dogs’ mouths, but in human mouths. And transferring that many germs between humans and animals has never been a great idea. We get that it’s normal and a lot of people connect with their pets and show affection that way, but maybe consider some other manner of pet cuddling than kissing them.
20. Smacking Gum
Another commenter shared, “Smacking gum. I hate it. And loud chewing/swallowing noises.”
Chewing gum seems to be one of those things people either love or hate; there’s no middle ground. But we totally understand how it can be annoying for those who are highly sensitive, especially to noise.
What do you think of the list shared above? Share your thoughts with us down in the comments!
Source: Reddit.
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11 Vampire Movies That Will Make You Thirst for More
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We’ve all been there: you make a comment you haven’t thought through at all, and the whole room goes silent at what you’ve just said. But can you imagine doing that as a famous person—and getting canceled? Check out this list of celebrities who did just that!
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Are you planning a trip to the US? Culture varies a lot between countries, even countries that share borders. So if you’re headed to the good old U. S. of A, here are a few pointers to make your travels go more smoothly!
Are you looking for the best game apps to win money? Yes, you can actually play games to win real money on your phone and make extra money. There are lots of apps for both iPhones and Androids that let you do this. If you already spend a lot of time playing games on your…
Are you looking for the best game apps to win money?
Yes, you can actually play games to win real money on your phone and make extra money.
There are lots of apps for both iPhones and Androids that let you do this. If you already spend a lot of time playing games on your phone, then you might as well get paid for it, right?
In this article, I’m going to talk about some really good game apps that let you win actual money prizes. These games include ones like those you might find in a casino as well as easier puzzle games and even arcade style games. So, there’s something for everyone. When you play and collect points or coins, you can get your winnings through easy ways like PayPal and Apple Pay.
Key Takeaways
Playing game apps can be fun and you can even win real money.
The best game apps that pay real money include KashKick, Swagbucks, and InboxDollars.
Popular payout methods include PayPal, Apple Pay, and gift cards.
Game apps pay real money rewards because they make their money from ads and in-app purchases. They give you a portion of their earnings to encourage you to continue playing their games.
Do any game apps actually pay real money?
Yes, some game apps do pay real money or in gift cards. They most likely will never be a main source of income or a full-time job, though – simply just a way to make some extra money.
Why do game apps pay you real money?
Game apps that give out real money usually make money through ads, things you buy in the app, and paid gaming competitions/tournaments. They share a little of what they earn with you to get you to keep playing their games.
Sometimes, game apps have partnered with different game developers and companies so that people will try new games and earn rewards for them. Since the game app is being paid and they want more people to play the game, they then will share some of their earnings with you to get you to keep playing the games in their app.
It’s a win-win! You get to enjoy yourself and make some extra money, and businesses get to showcase their ads and games to a wider audience.
Recommended reading: 30 Best Money Making Apps
Best Game Apps To Win Real Money
Here’s a quick list of the top game apps that pay real cash:
KashKick
Swagbucks
InboxDollars
Below, I dive further into the best game apps to win real money.
1. KashKick
I think the best game app to win real money is KashKick.
KashKick allows you to earn $100 or more by playing popular mobile games like Yahtzee and Monopoly GO. You can also make money by trying new products and services, watching videos, answering surveys, and reading emails.
There are many different games you can play on KashKick such as:
Coin Master
Monopoly GO
Yahtzee
Family Island
Bingo Blitz
Scrabble Go
Solitaire Smash
MGM Slots
For example, here’s how you can make money playing Monopoly Go on KashKick: “Install (make sure to accept tracking requirements on your device!) and reach Board 27 within 8 days from the install date to get $30, reach Board 42 within 12 days for $40 more and reach Board 71 within 24 days for another $50 – for a total of $120!”
Please click here to sign up for KashKick for free.
Recommended reading: KashKick Review
2. Swagbucks
Another favorite game app to win real cash is Swagbucks.
Swagbucks is a very popular rewards site where you can earn money by playing games, taking surveys, watching videos, and shopping online, and you can cash out what you earn with PayPal cash or gift cards.
Swagbucks is a company that I started using years ago, and it has helped me easily earn some extra cash on the side, all from home or while traveling. I have personally earned over 100 free gift cards through Swagbucks, so I know that they are a legit game app that pays you real money!
To play games on Swagbucks, you simply head to the “Play” tab when you are logged in. When I logged in, I had over 20 available games that I could get paid to play, with a total rewards value of $2,264.02 or 226,402 SB points.
Some of the games you can play on Swagbucks include:
Match Masters
Farmville
Lucky Buddies
Dragonscapes Adventure
Wizard of Oz Slots
Solitaire Smash
POP! Slots
Dice Buddies
Swagbucks Live
If you join Swagbucks through my referral link, you can receive a $10 bonus.
Recommended reading: Swagbucks Review
3. InboxDollars
InboxDollars is another good rewards site that pays you cash for taking surveys, shopping online, playing games, and reading certain emails. In fact, InboxDollars has been around since 2000, and they have paid over $80 million in cash and gift cards.
They pay via PayPal cash as well as gift cards to places such as Amazon, Apple, Target, Dunkin’ Donuts, Lowe’s, Barnes & Noble, and Gap.
To play games on InboxDollars, simply head to the tab that says “Games.”
When I log in, I have 8 games available for me to currently play, such as Mahjong Dimensions, Solitaire, Word Wipe, Monkey Bubble Shooter, Pyramid Solitaire, Candy Jam, Pet Hop, and Giant Hamster Run.
Sign up for InboxDollars here and get a free $5 bonus.
4. PrizeRebel
PrizeRebel is a popular rewards site where you can play games (as well as take surveys that pay instantly and more). You can redeem your rewards points for PayPal cash, gift cards, and even cryptocurrency.
Some of the games on PrizeRebel include Bingo Blitz, Solitaire Grand Harvest, Age of Apes, Kingdom Guard, Yahtzee, Woody Sort, Viking Rise, and more.
You can sign up for PrizeRebel here.
5. MyPoints
MyPoints is a rewards platform where you can earn money by playing games, watching videos, and participating in surveys. Your earnings can be redeemed as gift cards or PayPal cash.
To get paid to play games on MyPoints, you log in and head to the “Games” tab, and there you will see games such as Bejeweled, Bingo, Catch 21, Puzzle Match, Wheel of Fortune, and more.
Sign up for MyPoints by clicking here.
6. Blackout Bingo
Blackout Bingo is a highly-rated bingo game app that allows you to win real cash. In fact, there are nearly 90,000 reviews on the App Store alone, with an average of 4.5 out of a 5 star rating.
Over 5,000,000 people have played this bingo app where you can win rewards and cash prizes too.
You play against other players in real time and can cash out your winnings via PayPal.
7. Bingo Cash
Bingo Cash is a fun game of Bingo that you can play for free, and you can play against other people no matter where you are in the world. You get to “travel” to different places in the game and practice your Bingo skills. Plus, you can win really big prizes!
Bingo Cash is a free game that you can play on the popular gaming platform called Papaya.
It’s easy and safe to get your prize money through PayPal. You can choose from lots of cool prizes like Airpods Pro, iPads, and coffee makers!
Note: If you live in AZ, AR, CT, DE, LA, MT, SC, SD, or TN, you can’t join prize tournaments. But don’t worry, you can still play for fun with the game app’s virtual currency.
8. Solitaire Cube
If you like to play solitaire, then this is the game app for you as you can get rewarded for playing just like how you normally do.
Solitaire Cube is a card game app that allows you to test your card skills and win real money. The game is available for free on iOS and Android and is perfect for solitaire fans who want to put their skills to the test.
With this game app, you play against other real players all from your phone. Your rewards can be cashed out for PayPal cash or Apple Pay.
9. Mistplay
Mistplay is one of the most popular game apps to win money, with over 400,000 reviews and an average rating of over 4.1 stars out of 5. There have been over 10,000,000 downloads of this app too!
Mistplay is an app where you can earn money by playing and testing new games on your smartphone. It’s a great option if you enjoy discovering new games and want to make some extra cash.
Mistplay has given away $60,000,000 in rewards for playing games since the site was created too.
You can redeem your points for PayPal cash or gift cards to Visa, Amazon, and more.
Note: This app is currently only available for Android phones on Google Play.
10. Fanduel Fantasy Sports
If you like football, soccer, hockey, baseball, basketball, golf, and other sports, then this is the app for you.
Fanduel Fantasy Sports is a sports betting site where you create your fantasy sports lineup and compete with other players for cash prizes.
With this app, you have a chance to win real money. You simply create your fantasy team, keep an eye on your scores, and compete every day for prizes in lots of different fantasy contests.
Note: Fanduel Fantasy Sports is only open to U.S. residents and users must be 18 or older (19 or older in AL, 21 or older in AZ, IA, LA, MA). Users physically located in DE, ID, HI, MT, NV, and WA are not eligible to participate in paid contests.
11. Cash’em All
If you’re a casual gamer and want to play games in your spare time for a chance to win real cash, give Cash’em All a try.
This app doesn’t bother you with in-app purchases or ad walls. Instead, you earn points, or “coins” as the app calls them, for each second you play their games.
There are many different games that you can play on Cash’em All, such as Candy Crush, Match Masters, Bingo Blitz, Coin Master, and more.
You earn points which then can be exchanged into PayPal cash or gift cards to places such as Netflix, Amazon, and more.
Note: This app is currently only available for Android phones on Google Play.
12. 21 Blitz
21 Blitz is a blackjack and solitaire hybrid card game where you can win real money, and it’s a fun choice for people who like card games. Also, it’s great for practicing blackjack, exercising your brain, or simply having fun.
You can play against real people for free. When you feel ready, you can switch to cash games and have a chance to win real money.
This game is a part of the Skillz platform, which is a popular game app platform where people can win real money through their collection of different games that they have (they have some of the best games to win real money).
13. Pool Payday
Pool Payday is the top pool game app where you can play 1-on-1 pool games and win real cash prizes.
This is a free game app where you can win real money taking pool shots and winning points.
The app is available on iOS devices through the App Store, and you can withdraw your winnings via PayPal cash or Apple Pay.
Note: You can join cash tournaments in most places around the world. However, if you live in AZ, AR, CT, DE, IL, IN, LA, ME, MT, SC, SD, or TN, cash tournaments are not available. But, you can still play for free if you live in these states.
14. Bubble Cash
If you like bubble shooter games, then this is the best bubble shooter game app.
Bubble Cash lets you play against other players in real-time bubble shooter games, with the chance to win cash prizes. Bubble Cash is a bubble shooter game where the more bubbles you pop, the higher your chances of winning.
I know people who spend hours playing these types of games, so this can be a fun way to get rewarded to play a favorite game.
Here’s how to play:
Match three bubbles of the same color to pop and clear the board.
Tap the screen to aim the laser, then lift your finger to shoot the ball.
You can download the app on iOS and Android devices.
15. Solitaire Cash
Solitaire Cash is a card game app where you can play solitaire games for real money.
Once you download the game for free, you can play regular or cash tournaments and have a chance to win real money.
You’ll play against players of similar skill levels, and everyone gets the same deck. So, the game is fair and based on your skills.
The app is available on iOS and Android devices.
16. Rewarded Play
Rewarded Play is an app that pays you for playing games on your phone. If you want to play a variety of games, then this is the app for you.
You can play games such as Scrabble, Yahtzee, Bingo Blitz, Wheel of Fortune, and more.
The way the app works is that they introduce you to new games. Then, the more time you spend playing their games, the more points you can earn. Your points can be redeemed for gift cards to places such as Amazon, Walmart, Target, Nordstrom, and more.
17. Dominoes Gold
Dominoes Gold is one of the best dominoes game apps where you can put your domino skills to the test and win cash prizes.
You play by challenging your opponent in the same games against the computer and see who can win with more points.
The app is available for iOS devices, and you can cash out your winnings via PayPal.
18. AppStation
AppStation is an app that pays you for playing new games on your phone. You can earn coins by trying different games and then redeem them for PayPal cash or gift cards. Games include Fishdom and Match Royal.
Note: Only available for Android users.
19. Jackpocket
Jackpocket is an app that lets you play lottery games and potentially win real cash prizes. You can buy lottery tickets through the app and even be notified if you win. This can be an easy way to play your local lottery games right from your phone.
You can have Powerball, Mega Millions, Cash4Life, and other lottery tickets from NY, NJ, and NH sent directly to your phone.
Just pick your game and numbers (or use Quick Pick), and the app will safely get your ticket from a licensed lottery seller.
If you win less than $600, the money goes directly to your Jackpocket account. For big wins, they make sure to safely deliver you your ticket so that you can redeem your winnings yourself.
20. Cookie Cash
Cookie Cash is a Match 3 puzzle skill game from Papaya Gaming that is for the iPad and iPhone.
With Cookie Cash, you can play as much as you want for free. Then, once you’re ready, you can compete against other players for prizes and real money, such as PayPal cash and Apple Pay.
Note: Cash tournaments are not available in the states of AZ, IA, LA, and SC.
21. Money Well
Money Well has many arcade-style games that you can play to win real money, and this is a very popular game app with over 10,000,000 downloads and an average rating of 4.3 stars out of 5 stars (with over 528,000 reviews!).
You can simply play the games, collect coins, and cash out your earnings for PayPal cash and gift cards to places such as Grubhub and Apple.
22. Bingo Clash
Bingo Clash is a bingo game app from AviaGames with high ratings, and they give real money payouts through PayPal, Apple Pay, Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Venmo. You can play this game for free and enjoy the competitive nature of real-time bingo.
You’ll play against real players who have similar skills and compete in classic, fun, and fair cash games based on your skills. You can also take part in tournaments with different match styles, and the higher you place, the bigger your prize.
Note: Cash games are not available in the following states of AZ, AR, CT, DE, LA, MT, SC, SD, TN, and VT. But, if you live in one of these states you can still play the game for free.
23. Spades Blitz
Spades Blitz is a card game app where you can win cash earnings by playing and mastering the popular card game of spades.
With Spades Blitz, you compete against real people from around the world in tournaments, where you pay an entry fee to take part.
You can get paid via PayPal cash or check.
Note: The app is available on the App Store and the Galaxy Store. Currently, Spades Blitz is only available for iPhones and Samsung devices.
More Ways To Get Paid To Play Games
There are more ways to get paid to play, other than the game apps listed above. If you like to play games and want to make money, some other ideas to look into include:
Become a Twitch streamer
Twitch is a site where you can make money playing video games, talking, and more.
If you like playing video games, live streaming yourself playing can be a way to make money doing what you love. As you gain followers and subscribers on Twitch, you can earn income through ads shown on your stream, donations from viewers, and monthly subscription fees.
Most Twitch streamers don’t earn a full-time income, but there are some who make well over $100,000 annually. In fact, a few even bring in millions of dollars each year.
To see success on Twitch, I recommend finding ways to keep your audience interested, playing the games that you actually enjoy, and sticking to a regular streaming schedule (because your followers will want to see you consistently!).
You can learn more at How Much Do Twitch Streamers Make?
Play in game tournaments
Playing in gaming tournaments can be a way to make money if you’re really good at a certain game.
Many popular competitive games like Fortnite, League of Legends, and Call of Duty host large-scale tournaments with large prize money.
You’ll need to practice a lot, though, as there are many good players in all games – and you want to be the best in order to actually make some money.
Start a gaming blog
If you love games, then you may be interested in starting a gaming blog.
Starting a gaming blog gives you a platform to share what you know about games, your thoughts on games, and your experiences with other gamers. You can make money from your blog through ways such as affiliate marketing, sponsored content, display ads, or even by selling merchandise.
You can learn more about how to start a blog here.
Become a game creator
If you love gaming and have an interest in design or programming, think about making your own games. Independent game creators can build games for different platforms like PCs, consoles, or even phones.
While a college degree isn’t always required, it can be very helpful. You may want to get a degree in fields like game design, computer science, or graphic design, and also look for courses specific to game design.
First, try finding internships, co-op programs, or beginner-level jobs at companies that make video games. This will give you important experience in the field and let you learn from people who have been doing this for a while.
Sell game merchandise
If there’s a popular game out there, then you may be able to sell merchandise to earn some extra cash.
Some examples of merchandise include T-shirts, posters, or accessories based on popular games.
Of course, you will want to make sure that you can legally do this, as you don’t want to get in trouble for pretending to be a certain game app or anything like that.
My Tips For Playing Game Apps That Pay Real Money
Below are my tips for getting paid to play game apps from your phone.
Be smart about how much time you are spending.
When playing game apps, it can be really, really easy to let time get away from you and play too much (especially if you are a winner!). After all, you are probably having fun and it’s something that you can easily do from your phone.
But, you don’t want to forget about everything else in your life.
You don’t want your game app playing to turn into an obsession (such as with arcade games or trivia games) or into a gambling addiction (as many of the above are similar to casino games).
So, I recommend being careful with any games that require you to pay money (such as to join tournaments) and know your limit. You may want to set a timer for playing and a budget.
You may have to pay taxes.
If you’re winning money from these game apps, then you will need to pay taxes. This means that you will want to save money from any of your winnings for taxes so that you are not surprised at the end of the year with a huge tax bill.
Read real reviews and experience with game apps that pay money.
When you’re trying out different game apps where you win real money, it’s important to read real reviews and experiences. This helps you make a smart choice as reading honest thoughts from other players can give you a clear picture of the app’s pros and cons, how they pay out, how easy they are to play, and if people actually enjoy them.
Some things in game app reviews to look out for include:
If the customer service support is helpful (do they actually answer emails if you have an issue?)
If payments are actually being made and if they are on time (if many people are leaving reviews saying that they are not getting their payments, then you may want to do more research before you start playing games on that specific app)
If the game is fun (of course, this is just an opinion and everyone is different, though)
Keep in mind, while winning real money in gaming apps can be exciting, it’s important to remember that it’s not a full-time job with a full-time income. Always focus on having fun first.
Frequently Asked Questions About Playing Game Apps To Win Money
Below are answers to common questions about playing game apps to win real money.
Which games are best for earning real money? What are some popular real cash games?
There are many game apps that can help you earn real money and some of the top game apps are KashKick, Bingo Cash, Blackout Bingo, Solitaire Cash, and Mistplay. You may want to test a few and see which one is a game that you actually like.
How can I find legit cash games?
To find real cash games that you can trust, you should look for ones that are popular and have good reviews by looking at the Apple Store or Google Play Store to read user ratings and reviews. This can give you a good sense of the game’s legitimacy and whether or not they actually pay out the rewards you earn.
Do any game apps offer instant payouts?
Even if some game apps claim to have instant payouts, the actual time it takes can still vary. Usually, it might range from a few minutes to a couple of days for your rewards to show up in your account.
Are there money-making game apps for iPhones?
Yes, there are several money-making game apps available for iPhone users. Some of the popular ones include Solitaire Cube, 21 Blitz, and Blackout Bingo.
Can I earn money directly to my bank account with game apps?
Certain game apps let you transfer your earnings directly to your bank through direct deposits, while others pay through PayPal, Apple Pay, Amazon gift cards, or other cash rewards.
Game Apps To Win Money – Summary
I hope you enjoyed this article on how to play game apps to win money. As you can see, you have many options!
To sum it up, there are game apps that give real money rewards, and they can be a fun way to spend your time. But remember, they shouldn’t be your main source of income. Think of them as a fun way to make a bit of extra money.
Do you play any game apps to win money? Which one is your favorite?
All investments carry some risk, but the difference between speculating and investing is the amount of risk involved. Speculative investments are typically short-term, and far riskier than traditional investing products and strategies, and may involve the risk of total loss.
Investing typically indicates a more long-term approach to making a profit, with an eye toward managing risk.
Defining Investing and Speculation
Speculating often describes scenarios when there’s a high chance the investment will deliver losses, but also when the investment could result in a high profit. High-risk, high-reward investments include commodities, crypto, derivatives, futures, and more.
In contrast, investing generally refers to transactions where an individual has researched an asset, and puts money into it with the hope that prices will rise over time. There are no guarantees, of course, and all types of investing include some form of risk.
Examples of Investments and Speculative Investments
Assets that are thought of as more traditional types of investments include publicly traded stocks, mutual funds, exchange-traded funds (ETFs), bonds (e.g. U.S. Treasury bonds, municipal bonds, high-grade corporate bonds), and real estate.
Even some so-called alternative investments would be considered more long-term and less speculative: e.g., jewelry, art, collectibles.
Assets that are almost always considered speculative are junk bonds, options, futures, cryptocurrency, forex and foreign currencies, and investments in startup companies.
Sometimes it isn’t as simple as saying that all investments in the stock market or in exchange-traded funds or in mutual funds hold the same amount of risk, or are “definitely” classified as investments. Even within certain asset classes, there can be large variations across the speculation spectrum. 💡 Quick Tip: Before opening an investment account, know your investment objectives, time horizon, and risk tolerance. These fundamentals will help keep your strategy on track and with the aim of meeting your goals.
The Traditional Approach to Investing
When it comes to the more traditional approach to investing, individuals typically buy and hold assets in their investment portfolios or retirement accounts, with the aim of seeing reasonable, long-term gains.
Traditional forms of investing focus on the performance of the underlying business or organization, not on the day-to-day or hour-by-hour price movements of an asset.
For this reason, more traditional investors tend to rely on various forms of analysis (e.g. fundamental analysis of stocks) and analytical tools and metrics to gauge the health of a company, asset, or market sector.
Speculation: A High-Risk, High-Reward Game
The difference between speculating and investing can be nuanced and a matter of opinion. (After all, some investors view the stock market as a form of gambling.) But when traders are speculating, they are typically seeking super-high gains in a relatively short period of time: e.g., hours, days, or weeks.
In the case of commodities or futures trading, the time horizon might be longer, but the aim of making a big profit fairly quickly is at the heart of most speculation.
Speculators may also use leverage, a.k.a. margin trading, to boost their buying power and amplify gains where possible (although using leverage can also lead to steep losses).
The Psychology of Investing vs. Speculating
The psychology of a typical investor is quite different from that of a speculative investor, and again revolves around the higher tolerance for risk in pursuit of a potentially bigger reward in a very short time frame.
Long-Term Investing
Speculating
Taking calculated or minimal risks
Willing to take on high-risk endeavors
Pursuit of reasonable gains
Pursuit of abnormally high returns
Willing to invest for the long term
Willing to invest only for the short term
Uses a mix of traditional investments and strategies (e.g. stocks, bonds, funds)
Uses single strategies and alternative investments
Infrequent use of leverage/margin
Frequent use of leverage/margin
Historical Perspectives on Investing and Speculation
The history of investing and speculating has long been entwined. In the earliest days of trading thousands of years ago, most markets were focused on the exchange of tangible commodities like livestock, grain, etc. Wealthy investors might put their money into global voyages or even wars. Thus many early investors could be described as speculators.
But investing in forms of debt as a way to make money was also common, eventually leading to the bond market as we know it today.
The concept of investing in companies and focusing on longer-term gains took hold gradually. As markets became more sophisticated over the centuries, and a wider range of technologies, strategies, and financial products came into use, the division between investing and speculating became more distinct.
Recommended: What Causes a Stock Market Bubble?
Speculation History: Notable Market Bubbles and Crashes
The history of investing is rife with market bubbles, manias, and crashes. While the speculative market around tulip bulbs in 17th-century Holland is well known, as is the Great Financial Crisis here in the U.S. in 2008-09, there have been many similar financial events throughout the world — most of them driven by speculation.
What marks a bubble is a well-established series of stages driven by investor emotions like exuberance (i.e., greed) followed by panic and loss. That’s because many investors tend to be irrational, especially when in pursuit of a quick profit that seems like “a sure thing.”
Some classic examples of financial bubbles that changed the course of history:
• The South Sea Bubble (U.K., 1711 to 1720) — The South Sea company was created in 1711 to help reduce national war debt. The company stock peaked in 1720 and then crashed, taking with it the fortunes of many.
• The Roaring Twenties (U.S., 1924 to 1929) — The 1920s saw a rapid expansion of the U.S. economy, thanks to both corporations’ and consumers’ growing use of credit. Stock market speculation reached a peak in 1929, followed by the infamous crash, and the Great Depression.
• Japanese Bubble Economy (1984 to 1989) — The Japanese economy experienced a historic two-decade period of growth beginning in the 1960s, that was further fueled by financial deregulation and widespread speculation that artificially inflated the worth of many corporations and land values. By late 1989, as the government raised interest rates, the economy fell into a prolonged slowdown that took years to recover from.
• Dot-Com Bubble (1995 to 2002) — Sparked by rapid internet adoption, the dot-com boom saw the rapid growth of tech companies in the late 1990s, when the Nasdaq rose 800%. But by October 2002 it had fallen 78% from that high mark.
Key Differences Between Investing and Speculating
What can be confusing for some investors is that there is an overlap between investing in the traditional sense, and speculative investing in higher risk instruments.
And some types of investing fall into the gray area between the two. For example, options trading, commodities trading, or buying IPO stock are considered high-risk endeavors that should be reserved for more experienced investors. What makes these types of investments more speculative, again, is the shorter time frame and the overall risk level.
Time Horizon: Long-term Goals vs. Quick Gains
As noted above, investors typically take a longer view and invest for a longer time frame; speculators seek quick-turn profits within a shorter period.
That’s because more traditional investors are inclined to seek profits over time, based on the quality of their investments. This strategy at its core is a way of managing risk in order to maximize potential gains.
Speculators are more aggressive: They’re geared toward quick profits, using a single strategy or asset to deliver an outsized gain — with a willingness to accept a much higher risk factor, and the potential for steep losses.
Fundamental Analysis vs. Market Timing
As a result of these two different mindsets, investors and speculators utilize different means of achieving their ends.
Investors focused on more traditional strategies might use tools like fundamental analysis to gauge the worthiness of an investment.
Speculators don’t necessarily base their choices on the quality of a certain asset. They’re more interested in the technical analysis of securities that will help them predict and, ideally, profit from short-term price movements. While buy-and-hold investors focus on time in the market, speculators are looking to time the market. 💡 Quick Tip: How to manage potential risk factors in a self-directed investment account? Doing your research and employing strategies like dollar-cost averaging and diversification may help mitigate financial risk when trading stocks.
Real-World Implications of Investment vs. Speculation
To better understand the respective value and impact of investing vs. speculating, it helps to consider the real-world implications of each strategy.
The Impact of Speculation on Markets
It’s important to remember that speculation occurs in many if not all market sectors. So speculation isn’t bad, nor does it always add to volatility — although in certain circumstances it can.
For example, some point to IPO shares as an example of how speculative investors, who are looking for quick profits, may help fuel the volatility of IPO stock.
Speculation does add liquidity to the markets, though, which facilitates trading. And speculative investors often inject cash into companies that need it, which provides a vital function in the economy.
Strategic Approaches to Investment
Whether an investor chooses a more traditional route or a more speculative one, or a combination of these strategies, comes down to that person’s skill, goals, and ability to tolerate risk.
Diversification and Asset Allocation
For more traditional, longer-term investors, there are two main tools in their toolkit that help manage risk over time.
• Diversification is the practice of investing in more than one asset class, and also diversifying within that asset class. Studies have shown that by diversifying the assets in your portfolio, you may offset a certain amount of investment risk and thereby improve returns.
• Asset allocation is the practice of balancing a portfolio between more aggressive and more conservative holdings, also with the aim of growth while managing risk.
When Does Speculation Make Sense?
Speculation makes sense for a certain type of investor, with a certain level of experience and risk profile. It’s not so much that speculative investing always makes sense in Cases A, B, or C. It’s more about an investor mastering certain speculative strategies to the degree that they feel comfortable with the level of risk they’re taking on.
The Takeaway
One way to differentiate between investment and speculation is through the lens of probability. If an asset is purchased that carries a reasonable probability of profit over time, it’s an investment. If an asset carries a higher likelihood of significant fluctuation and volatility, it is speculation.
A long-term commitment to a broad stock market investment, like an equity-based index fund, is generally considered an investment. Historical data shows us that the likelihood of seeing gains over long periods, like 20 years or more, is high.
Compare that with a trader who purchases a single stock with the expectation that the price will surge that very day (or even that year!) — which is far more difficult to predict and has a much lower probability of success.
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For a period of a little over three years from June 2020—after covid had just broken out—to June 2023, core inflation was higher than 5%. Over the last three months, it has been lower than 5%. In September, core inflation was at 4.6%, the lowest it has been since March 2020, when it was at 3.8%. Core inflation is the inflation among the items that remain, after leaving out food, fuel and light items in the consumer price index. They form 54.1% of the overall index.
A possible explanation for the fall lies in the fact that the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) started raising the repo rate—the rate at which it lends to banks—in May 2022. Between then and now, the repo rate has gone up from 4% to 6.5%. This rise, among other things, has pushed up interest rates across the financial system.
The hope is that as interest rates go up, people and businesses cut down on their consumption, slowing down the growth in demand and the growth in wages, leading to lower inflation.
But this doesn’t happen overnight. The transmission of monetary policy of a central bank—in the form of higher interest rates slowing down consumption growth and discouraging corporates to borrow and expand—and that in turn helping control inflation, takes time. This time gap is referred to as the lag. Now, how long is the lag in the Indian case? Viral V. Acharya, while he was a deputy governor of RBI, had said in a November 2017 speech: “Monetary policy actions are felt… with a lag of 3-4 quarters on inflation.”
When RBI started raising the repo rate in May 2022, core inflation had stood at 6.2%. It continued to be above 6% until February 2023, except in July 2022 when it was at 5.95%. Since March 2023, it has been lower than 6%. Clearly, as Acharya had said, it has taken the monetary policy nearly three to four quarters to have an effect.
But one area where the higher interest rates haven’t seemed to have had an impact is in the disbursal of housing loans. From January to May 2022, before and around the time RBI started raising the repo rate, the growth in the outstanding housing loans of banks—which give out a bulk of these loans—had stood at around 13%. Post-May 2022, it has stood largely in the range of 14-16%. The increase in the months of July and August has been 37.4% and 37.7%, respectively. But this has been because of the merger of HDFC—which was a housing loan lender—with HDFC Bank. The data published by RBI on the lending done by banks by economic activity doesn’t adjust for this merger, forcing us to use June numbers.
The housing loan interest rates before May 2022 had stood at 6.5-7%. Now they are at around 8.4% to 10%, with housing loan equated monthly instalments (EMIs) having jumped 20%. But this hasn’t slowed down their disbursal. Why? The answer lies in looking at the breakdown of housing loans between priority sector loans and the non-priority loans. Priority sector housing loans are defined as: “Loans to individuals up to ₹35 lakh in metropolitan centres (with a population of 10 lakh and above) and up to ₹25 lakh in other centres… provided the overall cost of the dwelling unit in the metropolitan centre and at other centres does not exceed ₹45 lakh and ₹30 lakh, respectively.” The remaining loans are non-priority loans.
In the months leading up to May 2022, priority sector housing loans formed around 35-36% of the overall outstanding housing loans of banks. By June 2023, they had fallen to 31.5%, implying that banks are giving out more non-priority housing loans. Of course, these loans are largely taken on by the well-to-do, who do not get impacted much by the rise in EMIs.
In fact, the outstanding priority sector housing loans of banks from January to June have been just 1-2% higher than during the same months in 2022. When it comes to non-priority housing loans of banks, they have been around 22% higher from January to June in comparison to the same months in 2022.
Further, the percentages don’t explain this inequality well enough. The outstanding priority sector housing loans from June 2022 to June 2023 went up by ₹137.76 billion. In comparison, the non-priority sector housing loans went up by ₹2.47 trillion, nearly 17 times more. To be fair, this anomaly existed even before the Reserve Bank started raising rates, but it has only got worse, primarily because real estate in the formal sector continues to remain very expensive and the fact that prices of high-end real estate have rallied in the last 12-18 months.
Of course, actions of central banks have consequences. Things don’t always work in just one direction. The trouble is that the other direction rarely gets talked about. When RBI and almost every other central bank pushed rates down post-covid, it led to massive bubbles in stocks and cryptos and higher inflation. But there was very little talk about these bubbles in the communications of central banks. Now, as RBI has raised rates, the not-so-well-to-do have been pushed out even further from the housing markets, and there is very little talk about this K-shaped impact. Like the part does not always reflect the whole, the whole also rarely reflects all the parts.
With rolling hills, friendly faces and unique towns that resonate with charm and innovation, Iowa has been making quite the name for itself. As many discover the allure of the Hawkeye State, the quest to identify the best places to live in Iowa has become a topic of intrigue. From bustling urban centers to tranquil suburban retreats, each spot featured below offers its own brand of enchantment, painting a picture of a state that’s as diverse as it is delightful.
Population: 212,031
Average age: 34.0
Median household income: $58,444
Average commute time: 19.2 minutes
Walk score: 45
Studio average rent: $870
One-bedroom average rent: $1,040
Two-bedroom average rent: $936
Touted as one of the best places to live in Iowa, Des Moines is more than just the state’s political pulse, it’s a metropolis that artfully marries its rich agricultural history with modern urban flair. Downtown’s historic East Village effortlessly lures visitors and locals alike with its boutique shopping, scrumptious eateries and trendy art studios, while just a stone’s throw away, the iconic Iowa State Capitol building stands with its shining golden dome.
But Des Moines doesn’t just entice with aesthetics and activities. The state capital boasts some stellar educational institutions, top-notch healthcare facilities and a robust job market, primarily driven by its flourishing insurance and financial industries. It’s a place where people find their dreams echoing in the gentle ripples of the Des Moines River and the shimmering lights of the downtown skyline.
Population: 74,596
Average age: 26.3
Median household income: $51,925
Average commute time: 20.0 minutes
Walk score: 45
Studio average rent: $1,225
One-bedroom average rent: $1,199
Two-bedroom average rent: $1,636
Iowa City is home to the esteemed University of Iowa, giving the city an undeniable intellectual and creative buzz. Literary enthusiasts might already know this gem as a UNESCO City of Literature, where streets whisper tales of famed writers and coffee shops double as hallowed writing retreats. The historic downtown district calls out with its mix of independent bookstores, quirky shops and enticing restaurants that serve everything from farm-fresh delights to international delicacies.
Beyond the allure of literature and academia, Iowa City offers an engaging lifestyle for its diverse populace. Tree-lined streets, scenic parks and an abundance of activities make it easy for residents to embrace an active lifestyle. For families, the city is a treasure trove, with top-tier schools and a strong sense of community that binds its inhabitants. From its pristine pedestrian mall to the melodious strains of live music that fill the air during citywide events, Iowa City stands as a testament to what makes the Hawkeye State so darn special.
Population: 66,424
Average age: 23.5
Median household income: $54,339
Average commute time: 19.0 minutes
Walk score: 42
Studio average rent: $840
One-bedroom average rent: $818
Two-bedroom average rent: $855
An undeniable contender for the title of one of the best places to live in Iowa, Ames is more than just a college town, though the presence of Iowa State University certainly leaves an indelible mark on its landscape. As you walk through the town, it’s hard to miss the blend of Cyclone pride and the intellectual curiosity that bubbles up from every corner. There’s a delightful alchemy here of innovation and agriculture, resulting in forward-thinking research centers, flourishing tech startups and green spaces that look like they’ve been painted right onto a canvas.
But what truly makes Ames stand out is the sense of community it fosters. The town hosts imaginative events that range from local art festivals to high-energy athletic showdowns. Families will appreciate the focus on education, with schools that aim to nurture the mind and spirit. On weekends, the streets come alive, whether it’s for a local farmers market bursting with fresh produce or for a leisurely bike ride on one of the city’s scenic trails.
Population: 136,467
Average age: 36.5
Median household income: $60,787
Average commute time: 17.6 minutes
Walk score: 34
Studio average rent: $1,150
One-bedroom average rent: $750
Two-bedroom average rent: $895
Cedar Rapids is a city that effortlessly secures its spot among the best places to live in Iowa. While some cities shout, Cedar Rapids hums. It’s this gentle, magnetic hum that draws you into its diverse neighborhoods, historic avenues and the lively currents of the Cedar River. With a moniker like “The City of Five Seasons,” one quickly discerns this isn’t just any Midwestern city. That extra ‘fifth season’ speaks to the time residents take to enjoy life’s pleasures, be it watching a theatrical performance at the Paramount Theatre or indulging in some craft beers from Clock House Brewing.
The story of Cedar Rapids is one of resilience and reinvention. From its early days as a gritty industrial hub, the city has blossomed into a center for arts, technology and sustainable living. Green spaces dot the landscape, while the downtown district buzzes with constant activity. Moreover, the emphasis on education and business opportunities makes it a magnet for growing families and focused professionals.
Population: 59,119
Average age: 37.5
Median household income: $73,968
Average commute time: 16.7 minutes
Walk score: 40
Studio average rent: $1,200
One-bedroom average rent: $ 650
Two-bedroom average rent: $850
As the state’s oldest city, Dubuque, is like a fine wine, mature, rich in character and nuanced in its flavor. Its riverfront promises adventure, whether you’re taking a serene boat ride or exploring the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium. The historic Fenelon Place Elevator, dubbed the world’s shortest and steepest scenic railway, offers breathtaking views of the tri-state region, a reminder of the expansive beauty surrounding this special city.
Yet, Dubuque isn’t just a feast for the eyes; it’s a hub of opportunity and community spirit. A reimagined warehouse district stands testament to the city’s dedication to progress. Education is a priority here, with top-rated schools and institutions focused on nurturing the next generation. Events like the Dubuque Farmers Market and Bix Beiderbecke Memorial Jazz Festival harmoniously weave the threads of tradition and contemporary charm, creating a palpable sense of community.
Population: 22,949
Average age: 32.7
Median household income: $67,474
Average commute time: 19.5 minutes
Walk score: 33
Studio average rent: $650
One-bedroom average rent: $790
Two-bedroom average rent: $850
Hugging the outskirts of Iowa City is Coralville, an enchanting area that frequently lands on the list of best places to live in Iowa. While its proximity to the renowned University of Iowa certainly adds to its allure, Coralville is not just an extension of its bigger neighbor but boasts a distinct identity of its own. The city’s crown jewel, Coralville Lake, beckons residents and visitors alike for sun-soaked days of boating, fishing and picnicking, while the Iowa River Landing offers a delightful mix of shopping, dining and entertainment options.
Everyday life in Coralville is punctuated by a strong sense of community. The town’s well-planned neighborhoods offer a blend of old-world charm and modern comforts, making it ideal for families, professionals and retirees. Engaging in community events, from outdoor summer concerts to ice skating in winter, ensures there’s never a dull moment.
Population: 70,287
Average age: 32.5
Median household income: $92,959
Average commute time: 21.6 minutes
Walk score: 34
Studio average rent: $1,305
One-bedroom average rent: $1,296
Two-bedroom average rent: $1,538
Rapidly evolving from its agricultural origins into a dynamic urban hub, Ankeny is where the energy of growth meets the tranquility of suburban living. Its shimmering lakes are a favorite among anglers and picnickers, while the expansive parks and green spaces showcase the city’s commitment to nature and recreation.
Yet, it’s the spirit of the community that truly sets Ankeny apart. From its top-rated schools, which focus on holistic development, to the multitude of community events that bring residents together, Ankeny is a city that celebrates togetherness and takes the happiness of its citizens seriously.
Population: 18,814
Average age: 38.4
Median household income: $114,905
Average commute time: 18.1 minutes
Walk score: 40
Studio average rent: $900
One-bedroom average rent: $1,023
Two-bedroom average rent: $1,250
Often referred to as the “City with a Smile,” Clive seamlessly weaves modernity with nature. The renowned Greenbelt Park and Trail system, spanning miles of picturesque landscapes, is the heartbeat of the town, where joggers, bikers and nature enthusiasts find their happy place.
Everyday life in Clive is characterized by a harmonious blend of community and convenience. Highly regarded schools emphasize academic excellence and personal growth, ensuring a bright future for the younger residents. The city’s robust economy, driven by a mix of local businesses and larger corporations, offers a stable platform for professionals and entrepreneurs alike.
Population: 39,327
Average age: 39.7
Median household income: $89,375
Average commute time: 19.9 minutes
Walk score: 29
Studio average rent: $1,336
One-bedroom average rent: $1,625
Two-bedroom average rent: $1,175
Part of the illustrious Quad Cities, Bettendorf is a great city in Iowa to call home. Residents find solace in the breathtaking views of the river, while kids gleefully spend hours at the Family Museum. Not to be outdone, the Isle Casino and numerous local restaurants offer adults their share of entertainment, making Bettendorf a hub of activity and relaxation in equal measure.
Yet, the essence of Bettendorf isn’t just in its attractions but in its community spirit and quality of life. With a strong educational framework and top-rated schools, the city places a high premium on nurturing the minds of the next generation.
Population: 41,703
Average age: 38.0
Median household income: $75,927
Average commute time: 19.5 minutes
Walk score: 32
Studio average rent: $895
One-bedroom average rent: $1,115
Two-bedroom average rent: $1,250
A mere stone’s throw from Cedar Rapids, Marion confidently carves out its identity among the best places to live in Iowa. A blend of historic charm and contemporary flair, Marion’s Uptown District invites with a mix of unique shops, cafes and public art displays. Add to that the rhythms of live music during summer concerts at Lowe Park and the irresistible aroma from local farmers markets, and it’s evident that Marion provides a true feast for the senses.
The city’s emphasis on community shines through in every corner. Quality education is a hallmark here, with schools that champion academics and character development. With a collection of neighborhoods offering everything from urban sophistication to tranquil suburban spaces, Marion effortlessly caters to a wide array of lifestyles. A backdrop of events, from the renowned Marion Arts Festival to seasonal parades, underscores the town’s commitment to bringing its residents together in constant celebration.
Settle down in Iowa
In the heartland of America, the search for the best places to live in Iowa unveils a treasure trove of communities that cater to every imaginable lifestyle. Together, these Iowan gems weave a compelling narrative of a state that’s poised to offer more than just a place to call home. It’s an invitation to be part of a community, to thrive amidst nature and innovation and to craft stories that stand the test of time. Indeed, Iowa entices not just with a promise of a better life but with the assurance of an experience unparalleled.
When you’re ready to find your Iowa apartment, you know where to start your search.
The high cost of housing is driving Southern California’s biggest challenges. Income is not keeping pace with housing costs. It hasn’t for at least two generations, and the problem of unaffordable shelter shows few signs of letting up.
There’s a metric called “housing burden” that lays the situation bare. Over the last 50 years, it tracks the growing, gaping mismatch between income and shelter costs in Los Angeles County.
In 1979, UCLA land experts Leo Grebler and Frank Mittelbach wrote: “As a general, time-honored rule of thumb” house prices in a community “should not exceed 2 to 2½ times the annual income” of its residents.
Within a decade, home prices began to drastically violate this rule. If it were applied today, it would mean a four-person household with the median Los Angeles County income of $98,200 could afford to buy a house that cost $245,500. However, the median home price in the county last month, according to Redfin, was $980,000.
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How did things get so unbalanced?
In the 1950s and 1960s, buying a single-family home in Los Angeles was an attainable prospect. The GI Bill and the Federal Housing Authority helped with loans and mortgage dollars (albeit primarily for white families). And home building was on a tear, thanks to the region’s pro-development political climate.
By the 1970s, however, a cascade of factors — local to global — changed the equation.
Housing prices first shot ahead of income in the mid-1970s. Analysts attributed the spike to the first cohort of baby boomers reaching home-buying age, which expanded the pool of buyers and created a seller’s market. The 1973 oil crisis and ensuing inflation pushed buyers to pay up for fear prices would rise even higher. Unrelenting demand thus not only kept pace with prices, it increased them.
Social-demographic factors also factored in. Per capita income doubled from 1966 to 1977, due in part to more women in the workplace. When federal policies struck down gender discrimination in loan and credit decisions, two-income families could qualify for larger mortgage loans, elevating the demand for higher-priced homes.
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Then land and building costs climbed, pushing prices even higher. And in 1978, Proposition 13 became law.
The ballot measure slashed property taxes and with them, funding for municipal services. Cities and towns scrambled to recoup the lost revenue. New real estate developments were “money-losers,” as urban planner and former Ventura Mayor William Fulton observed, because property taxes fell so low. Instead, municipalities turned to retail development to generate lucrative sales tax revenue. Prop. 13 thus became a powerful disincentive to build housing.
The rising slow-growth movement put another damper on housing supply. It was pushed by homeowners who resisted adding multifamily housing in single-family neighborhoods or new development in nearby open space.
One study by the California Legislative Analyst’s Office found that by the early 2000s, more than two-thirds of cities and counties in coastal California metro areas had slow-growth policies in place, and that when a community added such a policy, it resulted in a 3% to 5% increase in home prices. Moreover, the historical momentum of R-1 (single family) zoning stymied the construction of multifamily units.
The upshot of all these pressures? From 1980 to 2010 in Los Angeles, the population grew by 31.3% while housing units grew by only 20.6%.
L.A.’s spiraling housing costs paralleled trends in large, global metro regions by the turn of the 21st century, suggesting that forces beyond L.A. were also at work. In the 1990s and early 2000s, the housing bubble was driven by finance structures linked to global markets, inflows of global capital and unregulated banking practices that set off unrestrained and predatory lending and buying frenzies. Even after the 2007-09 banking crisis and Great Recession, home prices in L.A. soon regained traction.
Taking a longer view, economist Robert Shiller traced rising housing costs in the late 1980s and early 2000s across metro areas globally, including L.A. He pinned a good deal of the blame on “irrational exuberance” that motivated uncontrolled buying. The psychological draw of metro areas such as Paris, London, Sydney and L.A. reinforced the belief that land prices would continue to go up and up. Media fed these perceptions. And housing bubbles blew up.
Looking at the housing burden graph, the price surge since 2020 is truly eye-popping. Urban analyst Richard Florida attributes it to pandemic-driven demands for more housing space especially among millennials, a massive shortage of housing overall and, perhaps most disturbingly, the growing competition from large institutional investors who’ve been snapping up homes and apartments in recent years. In 2021, they bought 29% of all single-family homes in California and, with their ability to outbid other buyers, they drive up prices.
Over the last 50 years, L.A.’s housing burden has evolved from challenging to simply unsustainable. The consequences are all around us, in skyrocketing rents, a ubiquitous homelessness crisis, housing overcrowding, rising commuting times to drive-till-you-qualify exurbs, population flows out of California and intensified wealth inequality.
Solutions must come from both the housing and the income side.
Increasing the housing supply is crucial. It must be accompanied by policies that protect individual buyers from corporate competitors, ensure the ongoing production of affordable housing, and guard against gentrification.
Even more importantly, wages and salaries must climb considerably to make housing affordable again. The major employers in our region — from the movie studios to hotels to hospitals and logistics firms — must take a long, hard look at the housing burden graph and see in it their own role in widening the gap. The Writers Guild and actors’ strikes, the Unite Here Local 11 hospitality industry strike and the strike vote last week by Kaiser Permanente healthcare workers speak directly to L.A.’s housing burden.
The struggle to match income to cost of shelter is an inescapable fact of L.A. life that demands swift, conscientious redress.
Becky Nicolaides is a research affiliate at the Huntington-USC Institute on California and the West, and author of “The New Suburbia: How Diversity Remade Suburban Life in Los Angeles After 1945,” forthcoming from Oxford University Press. The data set collected for the book, a granular look at demographics from 1950 to 2010, will be published online by the USC libraries next year.
Homemade scented candles: where creativity meets illumination.
It’s almost fall, which means it’s generally the best time for candles and coffee. When the first cooler breeze hits, our minds turn to all things vanilla, spice and woodsy scents. And then shortly after, we get to the holidays, when we want to smell fir, cloves and spiced berry fragrances. Unfortunately, a candle craving can get expensive, with many larger candles coming in at almost $50 each.
Rather than trade your life’s savings for a nice-smelling apartment, you can do some scented candle making on your own. Here’s how to make scented candles and fill your home with the scents of the season so you can save some money and customize each candle to your liking.
Materials you’ll need for homemade scented candles
Here are the supplies to buy for your scented candle making, some of which you may already have on hand:
Candle wax of your choice:
Soy wax flakes
Paraffin wax
A blend of the two
Containers for each candle (mason jars, tins, etc.)
Candle wicks (available at most craft stores or online)
Wick trimmer or scissors
Stirring utensil (wooden spoon or stir stick)
Hot glue gun, superglue or glue dots
Fragrance oils or essential oils
Dye (optional for colored candles)
Candy thermometer
Pot or saucepan
Glass bowl or pitcher
Labels or decorations
Making your own DIY scented candles at home
Once you’ve gathered your supplies, it’s time to start candle-making! The process is pretty easy, but it can get messy — especially if it’s your first time making candles. Wear an apron or clothing you don’t mind ruining and avoid using the melted wax on carpet or other surfaces that could be harmed by the wax.
1. Attach and center your wick
Start out by selecting your candle containers of choice, whether that be empty candle jars, mason jars or multipurpose jars. Make sure the container has been thoroughly washed and is completely dry. Place a dab of your glue of choice in the bottom center of the container and press the bottom of a wick into the glue. If you’re using a wider container, you have the option to do multiple wicks so that your candle will burn evenly instead of tunneling.
Cut a piece of masking tape that is long enough to fit across the top of your candle container. Using scissors, cut a hole in the middle of the tape, then pull the top of the wick through the hole. Secure the tape across the top of the candle container. You can also use a pencil to wrap the wick around and hold it up. This should keep the wick standing straight so it doesn’t fall into the wax at an odd angle and ruin the candle’s burn pattern.
2. Melt the wax
Now it’s time to melt your wax for your homemade candles. Start by filling your pot or saucepan about halfway with water, then bring it to a boil by putting it over high heat on the stove. Put your wax into the glass bowl or pitcher, then put it over the boiling water. This will form a double boiler and ensure that your wax doesn’t get too hot or burn away.
The amount of wax you’ll use will really depend on how many candles you’re making — it’s easy to simply eyeball the amount you use and maybe add a little extra to ensure you have enough. The good news is that if you end up melting too much, the wax will harden and be reusable to melt again.
To ensure your candle wax is melted enough, put the candy thermometer in the wax as it heats and bring it to about 180 degrees Fahrenheit. Once it reaches that temperature, remove the wax from the heat.
3. Add fragrance
Let the wax cool down to about 140 degrees Fahrenheit. This can vary on timing, so you can leave it alone and check back every few minutes. Once it’s reached 140 degrees Fahrenheit, you can add your fragrance of choice.
The general rule is to add one ounce of fragrance oil for every pound of wax you melt. However, you’re welcome to add less than that if you like weaker scents or more than that if you want a stronger-scented candle.
If using essential oils, you may need to add even more than that since they are typically a little weaker. Feel free to get creative and mix different essential oils to develop your own unique scent. Crafting your favorite scents is easy with these combinations.
4. Pour the wax and add decorations
You’re one step closer to your finished candle! Now, once you’ve added your fragrance, you’ll simply pour the wax into the containers you prepared beforehand. Pour it out slowly, or else it can create air bubbles in the new containers and make the top of the candle look bumpy.
For those who want to make their candle personalized, add a name for your candle with a label, or sprinkle in some dried flowers, glitter or even sprinkles for a fun decorative touch. Do this before the candle dries so it stays intact and doesn’t fall out.
5. Let it cool, trim your wick and enjoy!
Once you pour your scented candle, make sure to let it cool before you light it! Leave it for at least 24 hours to ensure it cools and sets completely. Then, trim your wick, light your candle and enjoy the soft scent as it fills your apartment.
Is making scented candles profitable?
Consider crafting more than one candle either for your own apartment or as gifts or you can also sell them! Because the wax and fragrance oils are relatively affordable, as long as you sell your candles for more than the cost of materials and factor in how much time you spend making the candles, you can sell your scented candles for a nice profit.
Must-read candle safety tips
Ensure you trim the wick each time before lighting your homemade candle — you’ll want it about one-fourth of an inch above the wax. If the wick is too long, it can create a large flame and the wick will get too hot and start to spark and pop.
Never leave your lit homemade candle unattended. It’s best if you can see the candle while it burns just in case the flame gets too big, it tips over or it catches on something nearby, like curtains.
When burning your homemade candles, be as safe as possible to avoid catching anything on fire or burning yourself.
Homemade scented candles made easy
Making scented candles is an easy and fun way to make your own personalized scents. While it may seem easier to buy a premade candle, seeing the fruits of your labor makes crafting a homemade scented candle a worthwhile endeavor. Start making your own candles for your apartment and invent your own delightful scents!
Wesley is a Charlotte-based writer with a degree in Mass Communication from the University of South Carolina. Her background includes 6 years in non-profit communication and 4 years in editorial writing. She’s passionate about traveling, volunteering, cooking and drinking her morning iced coffee. When she’s not writing, you can find her relaxing with family or exploring Charlotte with her friends.