Smart Investments | Earn from Home
Helping you make informed financial decisions and build
a sustainable income from anywhere.
About Me
Hello, I’m Gold.
I’m an accountant turned freelance Virtual Assistant and an introverted mom on a mission to explore smart investment strategies and ways to earn money from home. A proud mother of three wonderful children, a wife and I’m passionate about sharing my personal journey, finance tips, and honest reviews on various financial opportunities and institutions.
My story began in Lagos, where I balanced a full-time job with family responsibilities, enduring a grueling 3-hour commute each day. The challenge of juggling work and family life sparked my curiosity about online businesses.
Explore Key Topics
Smart Investments
Discover strategies and tips on how to grow your money through safe and reliable investment options tailored for anyone.
Earning from Home
Learn practical insights into building multiple income streams from the comfort of your home using proven methods.
Join me on my journey toward financial freedom as I share my experiences, successes, and lessons learned along the way.
Recent Blog Posts
As a Nigerian freelancer, working with international clients can be rewarding, but there’s also the concern of facing bias or discrimination. While it’s disappointing, there are ways to overcome this and thrive in the global market. Here are some strategies to help you avoid discrimination, build trust, and grow your freelancing career.1. Build a Strong PortfolioYour portfolio is your most powerful tool. It showcases your skills, experience, and professionalism. Include samples of past projects, client testimonials, and certifications to show the quality of your work. A strong portfolio will make clients focus on your abilities rather than your nationality. Let your work speak for itself!2. Use Professional BrandingMake sure your profiles on freelancing platforms (like Upwork, Fiverr, and LinkedIn) are well-crafted and professional. Avoid mentioning personal details like your nationality in your profile bio, unless it adds value to the client. If you’re concerned about being judged as a Nigerian, you can generally mention that you’re an African freelancer instead. Use a clear, professional photo, and focus on your skills, achievements, and experience.
3. Communicate Clearly and ProfessionallyEffective communication is key to winning international clients. Always respond promptly and professionally. Use proper grammar and avoid slang or overly casual language. Good communication builds trust and helps clients see you as a reliable freelancer, regardless of where you’re from.4. Suggest Escrow Payments for TrustSometimes clients may hesitate to work with freelancers from certain regions due to trust issues. A great way to overcome this is to suggest using Fiverr’s payment system or another platform with escrow services, even if you’ve connected with the client on another platform. Escrow protects both you and the client, ensuring payment is secure, and this can give clients peace of mind.5. Set Clear Terms and ExpectationsBe very clear about your terms from the start—deadlines, payments, and project scope. This shows professionalism and reduces misunderstandings. When clients see that you’re organized and dependable, they’re more likely to trust you, regardless of your location.6. Offer Competitive RatesSet rates that reflect your skills and the industry standards, not based on your location. Research what freelancers with similar skills charge and offer competitive prices. Don’t undercharge just because you’re from Nigeria—charge what you’re worth while staying reasonable for the market. Offering fair, competitive rates helps build client confidence in your work.7. Deliver High-Quality WorkDelivering excellent results is the best way to win clients over. When you provide high-quality work that exceeds expectations, clients will focus on your talent rather than your background. Consistently delivering great work will lead to positive reviews, repeat business, and word-of-mouth recommendations, helping you grow your client base.8. Network and Build RelationshipsThe more you network and build relationships with clients, the more trust you’ll earn. Good relationships lead to positive reviews and referrals. Join freelance communities, attend virtual networking events, and engage in discussions to increase your visibility and build a reputation.9. Don’t Take Rejection PersonallyIt’s important to understand that not every client will hire you, and sometimes, this may be due to bias. If a client doesn’t hire you due to a lack of trust or preconceived notions, don’t take it personally. Freelancing is competitive, and rejection happens to everyone. If a client can’t trust you despite your professionalism, it simply wasn’t meant to be. Focus on clients who value your skills and experience.ConclusionAs a Nigerian freelancer, you can succeed globally by focusing on your skills, professionalism, and the quality of your work. Mentioning that you’re an African freelancer instead of specifically Nigerian can sometimes help avoid bias. Using platforms like Fiverr with escrow payment options can build trust with clients. Most importantly, don’t take rejection personally—keep improving, delivering excellent work, and building your reputation, and the right opportunities will come your way. [...]
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Are you thinking about exchanging your Naira for US dollars and then keeping those dollars at home? Before you make this decision, let me show you why this might be the biggest financial mistake you’ll ever make—and what you should do instead.The Fluctuating Naira and the Temptation to Hoard DollarsWith the Naira fluctuating, it’s understandable that you might be tired of seeing your hard-earned money lose value. One day, it costs ₦1,000 to buy a loaf of bread, and the next day, it’s ₦1,025. You may feel trapped as your salary stays the same while the prices of goods skyrocket. Perhaps you have some savings that could have bought you a plot of land five years ago but now can’t even buy 100 bags of cement. I completely understand why you might want to protect your wealth by converting your Naira to dollars. However, keeping those dollars at home is not the solution.The Security Risk of Keeping Dollars at HomeThe first reason you should not keep your dollars at home is the security risk. When you store a large sum of money at home, it’s exposed to various risks like theft, natural disasters, and fire incidents. Even though Nigeria isn’t prone to frequent natural disasters, events like the current flooding can damage or destroy your money.Let me share a personal experience. After working as a freelancer for a few years, I had never seen the US dollars I earned in person; everything was digital, transferred from one bank to another. One day, I decided to withdraw some dollars to hold onto them physically. I spent a small portion and kept the rest at home, just to look at it during the weekend. I know it sounds foolish, but this really happened.After withdrawing the money, I became paranoid. I even stopped my cleaning lady from coming to work because I was worried she might take my money. It wasn’t that I didn’t trust her; she was new, and I didn’t know her well. I spent the entire holiday weekend worrying about that money until I could deposit it back in the bank. Keeping money at home, especially dollars, robs you of your peace of mind unless you have a very secure safe, and even then, you might still worry about someone accessing it.Lack of Growth PotentialThe second reason not to keep your dollars at home is that there’s no growth potential. Yes, the Naira is fluctuating, but don’t forget that there’s global inflation as well. For example, if you plan to travel abroad or need to import goods, the prices of these services and products are also rising. Even if you keep your dollars at home, their purchasing power could diminish over time.A friend of mine exchanged her Naira for euros, planning to travel late last year. She couldn’t make the trip, and later realized that the money she had kept at home wasn’t enough anymore because the minimum balance required for a blocked account had increased. Had she invested that money in a fixed deposit or a foreign currency account, she would have earned interest and only needed a small amount to top up her balance. Instead, she had to find a way to add more money, since the funds she kept at home had not grown.When you keep your dollars at home, you miss out on potential investment income. Even in a fluctuating economy, finding the right investment can help your money grow, which is far better than letting it sit idle at home.
The Impact of InflationAnother critical reason to avoid keeping dollars at home is the impact of inflation. Inflation can erode the value of your money, even if it’s in dollars. Let’s say you kept $100 at home when the Naira was ₦40 to the dollar. Back then, ₦40,000 could buy quite a bit, but now that same $100 might exchange for ₦150,000 or more. However, what you could buy with ₦40,000 a few years ago is not the same as what you can buy with ₦150,000 today. The high inflation rate will erode any profit you think you’re making by holding onto dollars.Opportunity Cost: Missing Out on Potential EarningsKeeping your dollars at home also means missing out on the opportunity to earn interest. Imagine keeping $10,000 at home. That money isn’t earning anything while sitting idle. On the other hand, if you invested that same $10,000 in a Eurobond or a dollar-denominated fund, you could potentially earn around $700 in interest within a year. Even with global inflation, that $700 could help offset the rising costs, allowing you to maintain your purchasing power.What Should You Do Instead?Instead of keeping your dollars at home, consider investing in dollar-denominated funds. There are various options available, some of which allow you to start with as little as $100. For example, the new Nigerian Domestic USD Bond is an excellent opportunity, and there are other firms like ARM, Stanbic Asset Management, and GTBank that offer similar investments. These investments not only protect your money from theft and inflation but also provide you with returns.All you need to get started is a domiciliary account. If you don’t have one, you can open one with the help of two guarantors who have current accounts. Once your account is set up, you can start investing and earning interest, securing your financial future.ConclusionIn conclusion, keeping dollars at home is fraught with risks—security risks, lack of growth, the impact of inflation, and missed investment opportunities. Instead of exposing yourself and your money to these risks, consider investing in dollar-denominated funds that offer security and the potential for growth. By making the right investment choices, you can protect your wealth and ensure that your money works for you, rather than sitting idle at home.So, before you make the decision to hoard dollars, think about the alternatives. Investing your money wisely can help you achieve your financial goals without the stress and risk of keeping cash at home. [...]
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Are you searching for a reliable investment that offers attractive returns in US dollars? The Nigerian Government has just launched an exciting bond opportunity that might be the perfect fit for you. This unique investment, known as the Nigerian Domestic USD Bond, is designed to offer security and steady returns, making it an excellent option for investors seeking stability and growth. Let’s dive into the details of this new investment opportunity.What is the Nigerian Domestic USD Bond?The Nigerian Government has introduced a new bond aimed at raising significant capital in US dollars. With an ambitious goal of securing at least $500 million, and potentially reaching up to $1 billion, this bond represents a major financial initiative by the government. The bond is structured to last for five years, providing investors with a steady income stream through biannual interest payments. At the end of the five-year term, investors will receive their principal investment fully repaid in US dollars.This bond is designed to cater to a wide range of investors, both within and outside Nigeria. Whether you’re a Nigerian citizen, a non-Nigerian living in Nigeria, or a Nigerian residing abroad, this bond is accessible to you. Additionally, qualified investors, including pension funds, can also participate in this opportunity. The flexibility in eligibility makes it a compelling option for a diverse group of investors looking to grow their wealth in a secure and structured manner.
Key Features of the Nigerian Domestic USD BondOne of the standout features of this bond is its accessibility. The bond requires a minimum investment of $10,000, making it accessible to individual investors, yet substantial enough to attract institutional investors as well. Investors have the option to increase their investment in increments of $1,000, allowing for a tailored approach to meet their specific financial goals. The bond is set to be available for subscription in August 2024, giving potential investors ample time to plan and participate in this promising investment opportunity.How the Funds Will Be UsedThe proceeds from the bond issuance are earmarked for strategic sectors of the Nigerian economy. These sectors have been identified as critical to the country’s development and have been approved by both the President and the National Assembly. By investing in this bond, you’re not only securing your financial future but also contributing to the growth and development of key sectors in Nigeria. This dual benefit of personal financial growth and national development makes the Nigerian Domestic USD Bond a socially responsible investment as well.Tax Advantages of the BondIn addition to the attractive returns and security offered by the bond, investors can also enjoy significant tax benefits. The interest earned on this bond is exempt from income tax, providing a clear advantage over many other investment options. This tax exemption ensures that you get to keep more of your returns, enhancing the overall profitability of your investment. Moreover, there are additional tax benefits associated with this bond, making it even more appealing to savvy investors who are looking to maximize their after-tax returns.Trading and LiquidityAnother important aspect of the Nigerian Domestic USD Bond is its liquidity. The bond will be listed on the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) and the Financial Market Dealers Quotation (FMDQ). This means that investors will have the opportunity to trade the bond on these platforms, providing flexibility and potential liquidity during the bond’s term. The ability to trade the bond on recognized financial exchanges adds an extra layer of security and convenience for investors, ensuring that they have options should they need to access their funds before the bond matures.Why Consider Investing in the Nigerian Domestic USD Bond?The introduction of the Nigerian Domestic USD Bond offers several compelling reasons for investors to consider this opportunity:Solid Returns in US Dollars: With interest paid in US dollars, investors can benefit from a strong and stable currency, protecting their investment from local currency fluctuations.
Security: As a government-backed bond, this investment offers a high level of security, making it an attractive option for risk-averse investors.
Tax Benefits: The income tax exemption on the bond’s interest payments enhances the net returns, making it a tax-efficient investment.
Accessibility: With a minimum investment requirement of $10,000 and the ability to add in $1,000 increments, the bond is accessible to a wide range of investors.
Contribution to National Development: By investing in this bond, you’re supporting key sectors of the Nigerian economy, contributing to the country’s growth and development.
Liquidity: The listing of the bond on NGX and FMDQ provides potential liquidity, offering investors flexibility and peace of mind.ConclusionThe Nigerian Domestic USD Bond represents a unique and attractive investment opportunity for those looking to secure their financial future while earning solid returns in US dollars. With its combination of security, accessibility, tax benefits, and contribution to national development, this bond offers a well-rounded investment option for both individual and institutional investors.As the subscription period approaches in August 2024, now is the time to consider how this bond could fit into your investment portfolio. Whether you’re a seasoned investor or just starting, the Nigerian Domestic USD Bond offers a compelling way to grow your wealth while supporting the growth of Nigeria’s economy.If you’re interested in learning more about this investment opportunity or exploring other smart investment strategies, be sure to stay tuned to our blog for the latest updates and insights. Investing wisely today can set the foundation for a secure and prosperous future, and the Nigerian Domestic USD Bond might just be the perfect step in that direction. [...]
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Ever dreamt of having multiple sources of income but don’t know where to start? I was exactly in your shoes a few years ago. In this blog post, we’ll break down the steps you can take to create multiple streams of income, what they are, and how you can get started. So, let’s dive in!What is Multiple Streams of Income?Multiple streams of income simply mean having more than one source of income. This can come from a job, side hustle, investment, passive income, or any combination of these. The idea is to diversify your income sources so that you are not relying on just one. This not only provides financial security but also opens up opportunities for financial freedom.Types of Income StreamsThere are three primary types of income streams:Active Income
Passive Income
Portfolio IncomeActive IncomeActive income is the money you earn from working. This could be your daily job or freelancing work. For instance, I earn my active income from freelancing. Active income is essential because it provides immediate cash flow. Many people start with active income because it is straightforward and doesn’t typically require an upfront investment. However, relying solely on active income can be risky because it usually stops if you can’t work due to illness or other reasons. This makes diversifying your income streams even more important.Passive IncomePassive income is the income you generate with little or no effort to maintain it. This can come from rental properties, blogs, or developing apps. Real estate can be a great passive income stream if you have the capital to invest. The beauty of passive income is that it continues to generate revenue even when you’re not actively working. However, creating passive income streams often requires a significant initial investment of time, money, or both. For example, writing a book or creating an online course takes considerable effort upfront, but once completed, it can generate income for years with minimal maintenance.Portfolio IncomePortfolio income comes from financial investments such as stocks, mutual funds, or other financial instruments. If you’re new to investing, there are plenty of resources online to help you get started. You might also consider consulting a financial advisor. Portfolio income can provide significant returns, but it also carries risks, especially if you’re not well-versed in financial markets. Diversification within your portfolio is crucial to managing these risks. Investing in a mix of assets, such as stocks, bonds, and mutual funds, can help you achieve a balance between risk and return.
Practical Steps to Get StartedLeverage Your SkillsIdentify what you can do well. Are you a graphic designer, social media enthusiast, or writer? There is likely a market for your skills.
Set up a profile on freelancing sites or create your own business.
Utilize social media pages to market your skills and reach out to potential clients.
Building a personal brand is essential. Showcase your expertise through a professional website or blog. Share valuable content that highlights your skills and attracts potential clients. Networking is also crucial. Attend industry events, join relevant online communities, and connect with other professionals in your field. The more visible you are, the more opportunities will come your way.Invest in EducationEducate yourself before investing. Watch YouTube videos, take online courses, and follow financial news.
Diversify your investments. Don’t put all your eggs in one basket. Consider mutual funds, stocks, or low-risk investments like treasury bills.
Knowledge is power, especially when it comes to investing. Understanding the basics of the stock market, real estate, and other investment vehicles can help you make informed decisions. There are numerous free and paid resources available online. Websites like Investopedia offer comprehensive guides on various investment topics. Additionally, books by renowned financial experts can provide valuable insights and strategies.Create a Robust PortfolioDiversify your income streams to avoid over-reliance on one source.
Invest in various financial instruments and real estate to ensure stability even if one income stream faces issues.
With the economy’s constant changes, having multiple income streams can protect you from financial instability.
Real estate is a popular choice for building a robust portfolio. Investing in rental properties can provide a steady stream of passive income. If real estate investing seems daunting, consider starting small with a single rental property or a real estate investment trust (REIT). REITs allow you to invest in real estate without the need to manage properties directly. They offer a way to diversify your investments and potentially earn dividends.Network and LearnConnect with others who are also building multiple income streams. Join forums, Facebook groups, and attend seminars or webinars.
Networking within your industry can provide valuable insights and opportunities.
Learning from others’ experiences can save you time and money. Networking events and online communities are great places to meet like-minded individuals. By sharing your journey and hearing about others’ successes and failures, you can gain new perspectives and ideas. Don’t hesitate to ask questions and seek advice. Mentorship can also be incredibly valuable. Find a mentor who has successfully created multiple income streams and learn from their experiences.The Importance of DiversificationDiversification is key when creating multiple income streams. By spreading your investments and efforts across different areas, you reduce the risk associated with relying on a single income source. For instance, if you lose your job, having income from investments or a side business can provide a financial cushion. Diversification also allows you to take advantage of different market opportunities. While one investment might underperform, another could exceed expectations, balancing your overall income.Real-Life Examples of Multiple Income StreamsLet’s look at some real-life examples to understand how people create multiple income streams:Freelancer Turned Entrepreneur: A graphic designer starts by offering freelance services on platforms like Upwork or Fiverr. Over time, they build a client base and launch their own design agency. Simultaneously, they create online courses and sell them on platforms like Udemy, generating passive income.
Investor and Blogger: An individual works a 9-to-5 job while investing in stocks and real estate. They start a personal finance blog to share their investment journey and monetize it through affiliate marketing, ads, and sponsored posts. The blog becomes a significant source of passive income over time.
Tech Savvy Professional: A software developer works full-time and builds mobile apps on the side. They publish these apps on app stores and earn revenue through ads and in-app purchases. They also invest in cryptocurrencies and participate in online forums to stay updated with market trends.Overcoming ChallengesCreating multiple income streams is not without challenges. Time management is crucial. Balancing a full-time job, side hustles, and investments can be overwhelming. Prioritize tasks based on their potential returns and time requirements. Use productivity tools and techniques, such as time blocking, to manage your schedule effectively.Financial constraints can also be a hurdle. Some income streams require significant upfront investment. Start with low-cost or no-cost opportunities, such as freelancing or blogging. As your income grows, reinvest in higher-return opportunities like real estate or stocks.ConclusionCreating multiple streams of income is crucial in today’s economy. It not only provides financial security but also the opportunity to achieve financial freedom. By leveraging your skills, educating yourself on investments, diversifying your portfolio, and networking, you can build a stable and prosperous financial future.Thank you for reading! Please subscribe to my blog and follow me for more tips on creating multiple streams of income. See you in the next post!For more updates and detailed guides, follow us on social media and stay connected. Happy earning! [...]
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Are you eager to start investing in the US stock market but don’t know how to begin from Nigeria? In this comprehensive guide, I’ll walk you through the steps, the apps you need, and everything else you need to get started. Let’s dive right in!Understanding the Basics of Stock InvestingBefore we jump into the steps, it’s crucial to understand the basics of stock investing. Stocks represent ownership in a company. When you buy a stock, you can earn returns through price appreciation or dividends. However, it’s important to note that investing in stocks comes with risks, so being well-informed is essential.Choosing a Brokerage FirmTo invest in US stocks from Nigeria, you’ll need a brokerage firm that allows Nigerians to invest. Here are a few reputable options:1. TroveTrove allows you to invest in US stocks, as well as stocks from China and a few other countries. It provides easy access to a wide range of stocks.2. ChakaChaka offers access to over 4,000 US stocks and ETFs globally, including those from the US. It’s a great option for those looking to diversify their investments.3. BambooBamboo provides access to over 3,000 US stocks and has a user-friendly interface, making it easy for beginners to navigate.In an upcoming video, I’ll compare these platforms based on costs and other factors to help you choose the best one for your needs.
Watch it on YouTubeSetting Up Your AccountOnce you’ve chosen a brokerage firm, follow these steps to set up your account:1. Download the AppGo to the app store and download the app of your chosen brokerage firm.2. Register and Complete KYCFill in your information, complete the KYC (Know Your Customer) process, and provide your ID card, source of income, and other necessary information.3. Fund Your AccountYou can fund your account through various methods, such as bank transfer or debit card, depending on the platform you choose.Researching and Choosing StocksNow that your account is set up and funded, it’s time to research and choose stocks. Here are some tips:1. Use Research ToolsMany platforms have built-in research tools. Enter the name of a stock you want to buy, and these tools will provide detailed information about it. You can also use search engines to gather more data.2. Diversify Your PortfolioDon’t put all your eggs in one basket. Spread your investments across multiple stocks to minimize risk.3. Follow Market NewsStay updated with global financial news. Even minor events, like a change in a company’s CEO, can impact stock prices. Follow sources like Yahoo Finance and Bloomberg.Placing Your First TradeWhen you’re ready to buy your first stock, follow these steps:Log into Your Account
Use the Search Function Enter the ticker symbol of the stock you want to buy. For example, Apple’s ticker symbol is “AAPL.”
Choose the Order Type Decide whether to buy at the current market price or set a limit order at a specific price.
Review and Confirm Your Order Double-check all details, including the number of shares and the price, then click confirm.Monitoring Your InvestmentsAfter placing your first order, it’s important to regularly monitor your investments. Use the tools provided by the app to track the performance of your stocks. Knowing when to sell or hold is crucial to managing your investments effectively.ConclusionInvesting in the US stock market is a fantastic way to diversify your portfolio and build wealth. By following these steps, you can navigate the process with ease. Remember to stay informed and subscribe to financial news sources like Yahoo Finance and Bloomberg.If you found this guide helpful, please subscribe to my YouTube channel and hit the notification bell. See you in the next video! [...]
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They say high risk equals high return, but what if you, like me, can’t stomach the roller-coaster of the stock markets? Can you still invest and grow your wealth? Absolutely! In this blog post, I’ll share the tips and tricks I use to invest and earn money while I sleep. Let’s get started.1. Treasury BillsWhen I started investing about 10 years ago, I began with treasury bills. Treasury bills are government-backed securities that are considered very low risk. The only potential downside is the possibility of government default, but so far, the Nigerian government has never defaulted since I started investing.2. Government Savings BondsAnother great option is government savings bonds. These bonds are also government-backed and allow you to start with a small amount of money. They are low risk and provide a steady return on your investment.3. Savings AppsApps like Kuda and Opay offer low-risk investment opportunities. For example, Kuda allows you to set up your account so that every time you spend, a small amount is saved. The interest rates may not be very high, but it’s a good way to start building your savings.4. Money Market FundsMoney market funds are another low-risk investment option. They invest in short-term, high-quality investments issued by government and corporate entities. These funds offer lower risk and more liquidity compared to stocks.
5. Fixed DepositsFixed deposits with reputable banks are also a solid low-risk investment. Nigerian banks are generally well-regulated, so your money is safe. The returns might not be as high as stock investments, but they are much safer.6. Diversified Money Market FundsIf you can handle a bit more risk, consider diversified money market funds. These funds invest in a mix of stocks, commercial papers, and fixed income securities. While they are not as low-risk as treasury bills or fixed deposits, they still offer a balanced approach to investing.7. Dollar FundsThe only moderately risky investments I’ve ventured into are the Stanbic Dollar Fund and the Vintage Dollar Fund. These were initially offered by Investment One, but have since been sold to GT Fund Managers. While they carry some risk, they provide exposure to the dollar, which can be beneficial.Long-Term Planning with Low-Risk InvestmentsLow-risk investments won’t make you rich overnight, but with long-term planning, they can yield significant results. Typically, you start seeing returns within a year, depending on the amount of money you invest.Remember, the key to success with low-risk investments is patience and consistency.Don’t forget to subscribe to my channel and tap the notification button for more investment tips. See you in my next video! [...]
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