People still ask is it wise to invest in gold? It has always been a solid investment, throughout history, and even more so today. Gold still holds an air of mystery, sure, we all know about gold, its history, jewelry, gold coins, gold watches, but how many of us have really owned gold, I mean, a substantial amount, more than a few grams?
How many of us have investigated gold investment, and where and how to buy it? It is simply a matter of knowing where to buy at the right price and from a secure licensed dealer. Providing you deal with the legitimate companies in the gold industry, your gold investment will provide you with the financial security you have dreamed about. If these criteria can be met, then the answer to should I invest in gold is always a definite yes.
Investors who purchase gold will find that they have a hedge against market crashes, political disasters, currency crises, economic turmoil, taxes and devaluation.
Gold has always been a steadying influence throughout history, with investors achieving financial security and stability, due to the steady rise in gold, a safe haven for their investments.
Most people would want to find an investment that is secure, that can’t nosedive. With rapid fluctuations in forex and stock markets, investors want a safe place to put their money, and there are many reasons why gold ticks all the boxes.
Governments can’t make gold, they can make paper money, which is devaluation, but gold holds its value. Gold has always been around and will be around for a long time yet, steadily, or rapidly rising in value. Gold is the one perfect investment instrument which has the means to survive any financial catastrophe.
The Chinese and the Indians are starting to invest heavily in gold, they are increasing their gold reserves, and so is Russia. Investors in these countries are also looking for safe investments, and of course, realize the value of gold. Many Governments have dropped restrictions on the purchase of gold and so it is now possible to store gold with very low overheads, making gold a very viable investment.
You now can take control of your investments and protect against inflation, and create wealth when others are seeing their finances deteriorate. Governments can always rescue themselves by printing more and more money. The US and UK are printing more money now than at any time in history. This of course makes your cash worth less, but it also means that gold is worth more, gold always rises when confidence in Governments is at its lowest, with confidence in the economy at an all time low and markets sliding, what do you feel confident investing in? In a turbulent time, if you have invested in gold, you have secured your assets, which means peace of mind for the future. Your risk is minimal against other investments because it tends to outperform others in times of turbulence. Gold has quite rightly been called the ‘crisis’ commodity.
With the US Dollar falling over 40% since 2001, and stocks at an all time low, the dollar could soon be in freefall, but gold is still a solid haven for hard earned cash, why?
Because since 2001 the value of gold has increased by 150%, try beating that. Over the last eight years it has outperformed all markets, and unlike stocks which can quickly fall, gold remains valuable and stable. For gold to collapse in line with other markets, it would need to rocket to over $6,000 per ounce (I hope it does, but if it does get out quick). Gold remains stable, therefore, is a secure way to protect your money and assets.
As a more promising outlook for the economy emerges, the focus should then fall on the possibility of inflation, which will increase with time, therefore increasing the demand for gold. The demand for gold investment in 2008 increased by 10% over previous years, and is expected to rise year on year as supply dwindles.
Gold is still going strong despite many critics predicting a fall in gold prices during last year, of course this was not the case, the bubble did not burst, with gold investors making a steady profit, from $800 to $950 per ounce, and certainly not losing as predicted. Gold is not subject to a bubble, unlike real estate or stocks; it is very rare to see a sudden movement in precious metals. No, there was no crash, indeed gold proved what a reliable investment it is, with its price during the first half of the year still producing a steady return, and should continue to do so.
Summing up, gold has, throughout history always been a strong, reliable, solid investment. Crashes in the economy, stocks and real estate we have all seen, but who can remember a serious crash in gold? If you don’t believe it now, you never will.
A good investment?
Make up your own mind.
January 31st, 2010
posted in Gold Investment
Buying property in Montenegro for investment offers anyone wanting to invest in property a superb opportunity for big capital gains.
The country was recently voted one of the top 5 overseas investment destinations and investors are looking at property investment in Montenegro and its advantages longer term and buying in increasing numbers.
Why Montenegro Property Investment is rising in popularity
Many countries that have recently joined the European Economic have seen strong growth in property prices and Montenegro look set to follow this trend.
Montenegro could could join the EU as early as 2010 and has already adopted the euro as its currency.
Montenegro’s property market offers capital growth potential on property values, but there are also great buy-to-let options in the cities and popular tourist resorts.
Montenegro Facts
Montenegro is a small country of just 14,000 sq km. that sits in the Balkans.
It recently voted to become fully independent of Serbia in 2006 of which it had a loose federal union with after the break up of Yugoslavia in 2003.
Montenegro maybe small but has something for everyone from:
The fascinating capital of Cetinje, to rugged mountains, breathtaking river gorges such as the awesome kotor fjord and finally, the beautiful beaches of its Adriatic coastline.
With approximately 200 kms of coast and some of the most stunning bays in the Mediterranean, like the Bay of Becici – Montenegro has much to offer and is far cheaper than its near neighbor Greece.
So why should you buy be looking buying property in Montenegro?
1. The best value in Europe
Capital appreciation according to the World Travel and Tourism Council should see growth of up to 20% between 2005 and 2014; and the “value of Montenegrin property should triple or quadruple, given the huge surge in demand.
2. Tourism set to boom
In 2005 Montenegro was chosen as the #1 Country for tourism growth over the last ten years, by the World Travel and Tourism Council.
The government is committed to the development of tourism having realized that there is exceptional potential in this area.
The potential can clearly be seen in the recent development of the Tivat marina, costing in excess of $600 million and more such developments look to follow.
Montenegro benefits from close transport links to Dubrovnik’s International Airport, which offers competitive and regular flights in and out of Croatia.
Getting Dubrovnik takes only around 20 minutes.
In the near future, the budget airlines are expected to reduce the cost of flying to Montenegro as its popularity increases as a tourist destination.
3. Rental yields and capital growth potential
Montenegro is short of quality summer rental properties to accommodate an ever-increasing number of tourists visiting Montenegro beautiful Adriatic coast.
This means, rental yields should remain strong for the foreseeable future.
4. Montenegro enjoys a low cost of living.
This includes the cost utilities, making it extremely attractive for renting out investment property to the tourists.
5 Montenegro has a booming economy
The economy is strong and overseas investment is increasing, when Montenegro joins the EU investment will accelerate.
6. The buying process is straightforward
The buying process is relatively straightforward and transaction costs and taxes are cheap.
Montenegro property investment looks a great investment for long term investors all the above will come together to create both capital growth and lucrative income from buy-to-let properties.
With average growth of 30% per annum and far higher in many locations and strong growth likely to continue astute property investors are buying property in Montenegro for high rewards and low risk.
If you are looking for the next property hot spot consider Montenegro Property investment and you may be glad you did.
January 31st, 2010
posted in Property Investment
There are numerous overseas property investments to choose from, but how do you pick the best one?
Below we have outlined 5 simple tips for you to consider when buying abroad, so you can make the most of your overseas property investment, in terms of return on your investment.
The 5 tips below could see you double or triple your overseas property investment in just a few years, so here are your 5 tips for buying an overseas investment property.
Note: Against each tip we have provided an example of a solid overseas property investment and its advantages to reinforce the points.
1. Buy an Established Market
There are a lot of overseas property investments that are touted as the next “big one for growth” and you should get in early. Problem with many of these overseas property investments is you are one of only a few in and prices never take off and worse still plunge in value.
The best way is to buy an established overseas property market that has a track record of good growth and where prices are still relatively cheap and have potential for further growth.
Costa Rica: The market has been growing steadily for the last 10 years and the average growth is 300%.
This is an average growth and many investors have made much more on their investment, by careful choice of locations.
2. Look for competitive Prices
Once you have found a good established market that has had good property growth rates, look for prices that have the potential to give you further potential growth on your overseas property investment and that the market is not over priced.
Costa Rica: Despite the past growth rates prices still remain around 70 – 80% cheaper than equivalent properties in southern US states, such as Arizona or Florida.
3. Look At Long Term Prospects for the market
Take a look at the long term prospects for the country that your overseas property investment is in.
For example, how does the local economy look from a growth and stability point of view?
There is no point risking your money in an overseas location that has the potential to be unstable politically or economically.
Many overseas property investments advertised are in economies that are poor and where the government and political situation is fragile.
Costa Rica: Is a long established politically stable democracy and doesn’t even have an army!
The country is stable, has the potential for substantial growth and this fact is reflected in the huge investment from both US residents and corporations such as Intel
3. Look at Up & Coming Locations in the country
If you want to make more than the average growth rate from your overseas property, then look for new and up and coming locations. As locations become established, they become more expensive and growth potential drops.
Look for the next hot are and look at the coming infrastructure to see if you can take advantage of buying near important new developments
Costa Rica: Consider the following changes and think how you could take advantage of them.
1. A New freeway
Due to be completed shortly, this road will link the largest metropolitan cities to the Pacific Coast.
2. A New marina
The largest marina in the country will be completed soon in the coastal town of Quepos.
3. A New airport
A new international airport is being planned and will be built near the town of Orotina. Buy near these and your investment can take advantage of increased prices once they are completed
6. Rights and Ease of purchase
Many countries don’t give favourable purchase rights to overseas investors and this can mean problems if you don’t do your research, or there are laws that apply to you that are unfavourable.
Costa Rica: Offers the same rights of ownership for foreign buyers as residents and the buying process is made simple by the government, who are actively trying to attract overseas property investment to Costa Rica.
Overseas property investment – do your homework!
Don’t fall for sales hype and buy locations that may look good make sure that if you do overseas property investment, the location looks good already.
Make sure you do some research on the country itself in terms of stability prospects and legal rights for buyers.
Do all of the above and you should dramatically increase the potential for growth from your overseas property investment.
January 31st, 2010
posted in Property Investment
Millions of people dream about owning their own business. Having the independence that being your own boss brings, the security that no one can fire you, enjoying a good income – and for the most successful – the accumulation of wealth and prosperity. Unfortunately, the cards are stacked against a new small business making it big – or making it at all. An endless stream of problems makes competition from large, sophisticated chains too intense. Many new start-ups end as failures.
Buying a franchise represents a different approach to starting a business. For an upfront franchise fee plus ongoing royalty payments, the parent company teaches its business model and methods to the franchised-operator who shoulders all operating and financial responsibilities of the outlet. Some statistics are impressive: it is said over 40% of all U.S. retail sales are through franchised establishments. While franchise giants like McDonalds, KFC, H&R Block and Radio Shack are familiar, household names, franchises are available in a wide range of industries. The list of 3,000-plus companies selling franchises span over 100 different industry categories.American Dream … Or Nightmare?But just as franchising represents a chance to get rich, it’s also a chance to get stung. An alarming number of franchised operators make less than the minimum wage, working seven days, sixty to eighty hours a week, pursuing an expensive and elusive American Dream that turns into a nightmare. Since the ongoing franchise royalty payment comes right off the top, as a percentage of gross sales or a fixed minimum amount, the franchise company gets an assured revenue stream, even if its franchised units are operating unprofitably and are sold over and over again to new, unsuspecting buyers. The internet is filled with comments of the many people who lost $250,000 and more on concepts like eBay Drop off stores (iSold It), 30 Minute Fitness concepts (Curves), The UPS Store, etc. Yet many of these companies continue to sell and resell franchises over and over again. How do they accomplish that? Because there are enough people who think they can “believe” their way to success, even with a concept or business that’s not working in the marketplace. As discussed below, in many cases franchise investment decisions are incredibly based on emotionalism, not on business logic or even common sense.Ownership And Being Your Own Boss?Pride of ownership and being your own boss are highly touted phrases in franchise recruitment ads. But these are more fantasy than reality. Although you get all the financial exposure, headaches and stress of business ownership, what do you really own? A franchise owner is merely licensing a trademark (or service mark) from a company that dictates every detail of business operations. So the real boss isn’t you, but the company that sells you their franchise rights . . . and sea of franchise obligations.Equity Build up?But at least you’re building up equity, the ownership value of the business as a going concern beyond your investment of money, to compensate for all those years of hard work and long hours – right? Wrong – at least in the world of franchising. The franchise company reserves rights to acquire your entire business at below wholesale prices if their contract is not followed precisely. The acquisition rights provide for predetermined asset-based valuations, like book or liquidation value. These valuation methods provide bare minimum compensation (the used value of some file cabinets, office furniture, equipment, etc.) and are not generally used to determine the selling price of any business.Absolutely no compensation is paid for established goodwill, the value of a business that is generating $X in profit or cash flow every month after years of effort, investment and expense – thus eliminating the most valuable ownership asset. Of course, you may be able to sell your franchise to a third party for a sales price that includes an earnings-based valuation. But that’s possible only if:(a) you can find a buyer who is willing to live within the complexities of a franchise relationship, and(b) you happen to own a franchise that’s showing healthy profits.What follows is a bottom-line franchise checklist and tips compiled by franchise attorney and franchise expert, Mr. Franchise, based on reviewing over 500 franchise offering circulars and twenty-eight plus years of experience in the franchise industry – including ownership of a very successful franchise. These factors to consider in making a franchise investment will help you eliminate 95% of the companies you are considering. Then, you can concentrate your efforts on the 5% “cream” of the crop” companies that may deserve consideration. This franchise checklist assumes you’re suitable for and willing to live within the confines of a franchise relationship. It also assumes the franchise company:(1) has itself successfully operated the concept being franchised for at least five years at multiple locations;(2) is not plagued by franchise litigation and franchise lawsuits from disgruntled franchise owners;(3) does not have unusually high franchise attrition rates (owners who have “left the system”); and(4) has a balanced, fair franchise contract.SOLD It – An American Dream That Turned Into A NightmareAn example of a franchise company in trouble that failed to meet basic threshold standards is iSOLD It, an eBay drop-off store franchise. The company started its one and only company-owned store in November of 2003. Just weeks later, on December 10, 2003 they filed an application to sell franchises. The California Department of Corporations didn’t say “What are you thinking? You’ve only been in business a couple weeks, how can you even consider selling franchises?” Nor did they require this be disclosed as a risk factor on the cover page of the Franchise Offering Circular, as it should have. Disclosure responsibilities ultimately rest with the company (and its attorneys), and this will become one of many issues in future franchise litigation.Instead, the Department simply collected its $675 filing fee and issued an order declaring the franchise registration effective the next day – on December 11, 2003. Then the magic of franchise marketing took over. By 2006 the company had nearly 200 franchised drop off stores in operation and was touted by Entrepreneur Magazine as #1 in their list of “Top New Franchises for 2007” and #17 on their “Hotter Than Hot” franchise list. Entrepreneur Magazine, which requires franchise companies to submit their FOC’s (Franchise Offering Circulars) for supposed review each year before they’re listed, didn’t consider the high attrition rate (franchise owners leaving the system) or the fact that the audited financials in their FOC showed the company hadn’t operated profitably since 2004 as serious negatives and awarded iSold It the #1 listing for Top New Franchises of 2007. How did all of this happen? It’s yet another bizarre reality in the world of franchising.The franchise company’s audited financial statements for the year ended 12-31-05 showed an operating loss of $1.1 million. Nine months later, in September of 2006, the net operating loss mushroomed to over $4 million.In its November 3, 2006 Franchise Offering Circular, the table in Item 20 disclosed a total of 10 franchise owners leaving the system, yet a hand count of Exhibit D-3’s “Former Franchisees” revealed a significantly different number – 44. A similar “discrepancy” exists about franchise transfers. Item 20 says 12 transfers whereas Exhibit D-3 discloses 27.In a long overdue letter distributed to franchise owners on April 5, 2007, CEO Ken Sully painted a dire picture of an American Dream that had turned into a nightmare. Mr. Sully’s letter admitted the company has not been profitable since 2004 (according to the audited financials, the company showed its one and only operating profit of $356,286 in 2004 before the precipitous downward spiral of 2005 and 2006). Over 60 franchised stores have closed and many more are struggling for survival. Mr. Sully observed “Tragically, many individuals who believed passionately in the potential for the category have lost sizable investments, including homes and retirement savings.”Lost homes and retirement savings? How could such a travesty happen? I counseled a number of persons considering an iSold It franchise and warned all of them against the investment. Fortunately, they followed my advice. The concept was never proven in the marketplace before franchise efforts began, violating the most basic Franchise 101 precept. I also felt the management team lacked strong franchise credentials and the five-day training program was woefully inadequate. Finally, the franchise company was operating increasingly in the red and had a high attrition rate (owners leaving the system). It didn’t take a lot of brain power to see this was an accident waiting to happen. I predicted the bubble would burst and, sadly, it did.Common sense could and should have prevented so many people from losing so much. Unfortunately franchise sales persons appeal to emotions (passions and potential, to use Mr. Sully’s terms) and strive to keep common sense and business logic out of the buying equation. If a franchise company is able to obtain a ranking on a media list, the sale is even easier. Reprints of high rankings on lists, like Entrepreneur Magazine, are included in the package given to franchise buyers, who are lulled into a false sense of security and begin to stumble over each other in a rush to sign up before someone else takes their desired territory (another favorite closing technique used to sell franchises).iSold It! amended its FOC at the end of May, 2007 to add some long overdue risk factor language to the cover page of its Franchise Offering Circular. Hmmmm… maybe they read my comments above and did a little research. The new FOC cover page risk factor language says their “franchise system is still new and unproven.” That’s very interesting. How can they say a franchise system, that’s approaching its fourth anniversary, is “still new?” Maybe they’re looking at things from a ‘how old is our universe’ perspective? The word “unproven” is another play on words. The system is most certainly proven in the sense that many people, to quote Mr. Sully, “have lost sizable investments, including homes and retirement savings.” So why not use this quote directly in their Franchise Offering Circular? Answer: can’t sell any franchises that way.In an August 31, 2007 Business Week article, CEO Sully claimed it wasn’t necessary to disclose these risk factors in the FOC. His reasoning: “We told everybody that this is sort of like the wild, wild West” he says. “It’s a brand-new concept and nobody knew for sure where it was going.” Disclosure was added to the UFOC recently, he says, “because of the number of stores that weren’t understanding the complexity of the business.” Hello? You don’t tell your franchise investors after the fact what you were required to disclose in the FOC before they bought so they could make an informed investment decision. That’s the purpose of franchise disclosure laws. And claiming written disclosure of risk factors in the FOC is not necessary if a prospective buyer hears a salesman’s verbal wild, wild West story ignores franchise disclosure responsibilities and is really an admission the company failed in this regard. With its amended FOC, the company incredibly continues marching forward with franchise marketing efforts.Now, let’s consider the franchise checklist and factors to consider before any leap into franchising.INDUSTRY TRENDIs the franchise in a cutting-edge industry that is doing well currently and is projected to do well in the future despite any economic slowdown? Education and home-improvement services are stable categories. Food is over-saturated generally and, except in exceptional circumstances, is not worth the high investment, long hours, headaches and marginal income.TOTAL INITIAL FRANCHISE INVESTMENTIn general, don’t expect a franchise that requires a five-figure initial franchise investment to produce a six-figure income. As with most things in life, you get what you pay for. On the other hand, don’t assume a six-figure investment will lead to a six-figure income level. Be realistic and conservative. Is the total initial franchise investment range (including working capital) $125,00 or less; and the maximum investment less than $200,000? You can find solid companies in this investment range if you’re willing to look around.Don’t forget to consider long-term financial commitments, particularly the real property lease (see discussion below under “LEASING AND LOCATION”). Also, the working capital estimate (called “additional funds” in Item 7 of the company’s franchise offering circular) does NOT cover operations up to the break-even point. It only covers a short initial phase (usually only three-months) of operating costs As the break-even point (where revenues cover all operating costs) may not happen for one, two or more years, knowing only what it’s going to take to get you through the first 90 days is not helpful – in fact it may set you up for financial suicide. In many cases, reaching the break-even point can require more reserve funds than the total initial capital investment. Don’t ever forget the name of Item 7 in the Franchise Offering Circular: “Initial Investment.” If you don’t have enough reserve capital to reach the critical break-even point, your entire investment will go down the drain and franchise failure occurs.One franchise owner in a relatively low investment and low operating cost window cleaning franchise said his biggest surprise was how long it actually took his franchise to be profitable. Going in, he thought it would take 12 to 15 months. It ended up taking twice that time. Fortunately, he had enough reserve capital to make it there, but declined to say what his actual franchise profits or income level were once he reached “franchise profitability.” If you’re operating just above the break even point and making less than minimum wage, is that anyone’s definition of success?REAL BUSINESSIs this a legitimate retail business, as opposed to a “work out of your home” operation? The vast majority of work out of your home concepts produce marginal income at best.FRANCHISE MANAGEMENT EXPERTISEDoes the management team of the franchisor (the company selling you the franchise) have executives with demonstrated past achievement and experience in operating a franchise company (not just persons who have sold franchises)? If not, this is a big RED FLAG. Many companies enter franchising and fail to realize they are in a brand new business – one requiring entirely different management skills and abilities to navigate franchise relationships. A seasoned franchise management infrastructure must be in place. If the franchise management team lacks strong franchise credentials, or does not receive ongoing advice from qualified individuals, you might as well take a trip to Las Vegas with the money you’re intending to invest. Your chances of making vs. loosing money are roughly equal.NORMAL WORKING HOURS AND DAYS; SUFFICIENT FRANCHISE INCOME LEVELWill the nature of the business allow you to work a normal five-day, forty-hour workweek? Life is too short for the seven-day, sixty to eighty hours a week, workaholic lifestyle that destroys health, family and pocketbook. Financially, we’ve calculated the true hourly rate for franchise owners who work these workaholic hours and discovered many are making far less than the minimum wage. One couple who operated a $200,000 fancy pizza franchise in an upscale mall were shocked to discover they were making fifty cents an hour each. Hardly an income level to recoup or justify the franchise investment. Many more fast-food franchise operators make even less, or operate at a loss until their funds, retirement savings, homes, etc. are exhausted. Buying a franchise in a non-food industry doesn’t necessarily improve the franchise profit picture. In a 2006 article “Mail Boxes Etc. Owners Fighting UPS Conversion,” a Mail Boxes, Etc. franchise owner who operated his franchise since 1993 reported profits for a typical MBE store like his were $16,000 per year after paying royalty and advertising fees to the franchise company. That calculates out to about $8.33 per hour for a forty-hour work week, approximately the wage of an entry fast-food worker.Another major shortcoming of disclosures in the Franchise Offering Circular is not telling you how much money the franchises in the network are making. Instead of answering what is the most important question in a franchise investment decision, the franchise disclosure laws make this “optional” for the franchise company to answer or not. If they do answer this critical question, it will be found in Item 19. But don’t hold your breath – more than 90% of franchise companies “decide” not to answer this question. It’s another bizarre reality in the world of franchising. Although they collect complete monthly (and in many cases, weekly) financial profit and loss statements from their franchise owners, and know exactly how much their franchises are making (or losing), more than 90% decide not to share this information before you buy one of their franchises. A number of franchise salespersons have told persons asking this question: “the franchise laws don’t allow us to answer that question.” Nothing could be further from the truth.And just because you’re a business executive making a 6-figure income now, don’t assume this income level will be duplicated in a franchise investment just because the company “approves” your application. One such executive, despite a plethora of negative feedback from current and past franchise owners who’d lost everything, marched forward with her franchise investment in a 30-minute fitness concept. Despite her 6-figure income, she didn’t invest a dime in professional franchise evaluation advice and stated she was taking a leap of faith, hoping to build her wings on the way down. Build her wings on the way down? Sound’s (and is) crazy, but this happens all the time. Due to the ploys of the franchise salesperson, too many franchise investment decisions are based on emotionalism. Prior business skills, business sense (and even common sense) are short-circuited. Needless to say, if this business executive made a similar investment decision for her corporate employer paying the 6-figure salary, she would be promptly fired.MINIMUM NUMBER OF EMPLOYEESCan you operate the franchise business with 6 or fewer employees? Managing dozens (or in the case of some fast-food operations – hundreds) of minimum-wage teenagers who are constantly quitting or simply not showing up for work is a royal pain in the ….. Well, you know what we mean.LEASING AND LOCATIONFor most retail franchises, the triple net lease of the location is the biggest financial commitment, larger than the total franchise investment. Yet, the typical real estate lease and its ramifications are not required disclosure in any Franchise Offering Circular (FOC). For example, an estimate that you’ll need 2,000 sq. feet of space with expected rental of $5 to $10 a foot per month is normally disclosed in the Franchise Offering Circular’s initial investment table as Leased Real Estate $10,000 to $20,000. A footnote to the investment table may say “assumes 2,000 sq. ft. at $5 to $10 a foot.”But, that’s only the beginning of a much longer story. The lease is normally a 5 to 10 year triple-net lease. So, the financial commitment made when the lease is signed is at least $600,000 (at $5/foot for 5 years) to $2,400,000 (at $10/foot for 10 years). And this doesn’t include substantial, additional obligations to pay all of the landlord’s yearly property taxes, insurance, common area operating expenses, etc. With hundreds of thousands (or even millions) of dollars in financial obligations at stake, personal guarantees and other risks, more than just a warm, fuzzy feeling that everything will work out is necessary.Key questions to ask here:(a) is the franchise you’re considering one that can be operated in a low rent commercial business zone? Avoid franchises requiring the costly expenses and triple-net leases of a visible retail storefront and the extravagant rent associated with areas of high foot traffic, like shopping malls. You’ll sleep much better at night.(b) What’s your total financial commitment under the lease?(c) Do you have sufficient liquid assets (or a willing, sufficiently liquid third party guarantor) to meet the landlord’s lease qualification standards?If you don’t, you might as well forget about investing in the franchise. Or even worse, getting involved in a questionable franchise and business model, then realizing you’ve made a big mistake – and discovering you’re on the hook personally for a $500,000+ lease obligation.A related real estate variant is securing a lease with a sufficient term (with renewal options) to recoup your investment and make a profit. In July, 2005, an attorney in her mid-forties purchased an existing ice cream store franchise for $375,000 believing it to be a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.” Trading her briefcase for an ice cream scoop, she attended the company’s 11-day Ice Cream University and assumed operations of the ice cream store. Turned out it was an opportunity – but only to inherit a store with numerous problems. These problems included (but were not limited to) a lease that would expire the following summer and a landlord who’d previously announced the lease would not be renewed. Rather than pay the $100,000-plus in relocation costs, the attorney returned to the practice of law, but is still paying off $350,000 remaining on the loan taken out to buy the once-in-a-lifetime franchise opportunity. Although there’s a franchise lawsuit pending, it’s yet another case of “franchise fever” – this time attacking a professional no less. Who would ever commit to paying $375,000 for an existing retail franchise without checking out the l-e-a-s-e? Sound’s like another bad attorney joke, but I can guarantee she’s not laughing. Business fundamentals were ignored or forgotten in the rush to acquire the opportunity of a lifetime. And I’m willing to bet not a dollar was spent on competent, pre-investment franchise advice.IMAGE AND LIFESTYLEHow does flipping burgers, scooping ice cream and cleaning restrooms fit the image of what you want to do for a living? Investing in a franchise will be the most important financial and psychological decision you ever make. Many prospective franchise owners fail to realize they’ll be wearing virtually every hat at some point, from salesperson to bad-debt collector, from firing employees to bathroom janitor. The franchise owner is usually the first one to arrive in the morning – and the last one to turn out the lights late at night. And you’ll need to forget about corporate perks like paid vacations, paid holidays and sick pay. In their place, substitute financial pressures, unexpected events and money draining out of your savings and retirement accounts. Does the typical working day and responsibilities of the franchise you are considering fit your personal image and desired lifestyle? You can experience some of this BEFORE you invest by working for a couple weeks in an outlet owned by one of the existing franchise owners. TRUE FRANCHISE VALUEBuying a franchise from a “blue chip” franchise company that has spent decades and hundreds of millions on advertising to develop their brand can make a lot of sense. These companies have “true franchise value” that compensates for the long-term disadvantages of ongoing royalty and advertising fund payments. Often these additional payments literally mean the difference between earning a profit and operating at a loss. In unknown franchise chains with little or no brand recognition, you the franchise buyer are building their brand from scratch, and are saddled with severe, long-term competitive disadvantages.In these unknown franchise chains, you have to ask yourself a simple, common sense question. What value is the company giving you that you couldn’t learn on your own by working at one of their locations as an employee for a couple months? Franchise truth be told, what most unknown franchise companies are selling is just a business opportunity – teaching you how to get into a new business venture. But unlike a business opportunity seller that charges a one-time fee to help get you into business, they call it a “franchise” and charge ongoing royalty and advertising fees like they’re a McDonalds or other blue chip franchise company.The reality is they’re not a McDonalds type franchise – not even close to one. In the majority of these lesser-known franchise chains, you’d be much better off starting an independent business on your own. You can learn most or all of their so-called “secrets” in the franchise interviewing process and by talking to (and possibly working a short time for) existing franchise owners.FRANCHISE PROFITABILITY & “SUCCESS”Dr. Timothy Bates’ study released in 1993 by the Entrepreneurial Growth and Investment Institute in Washington, DC (and another study published in 1996) was the first to compare start-up costs, franchise profitability and franchise failure rates for franchised vs. nonfranchised firms. In his analysis of some 7,270 firms over the test period, Dr. Bates found that startup capital for a franchised business averaged $85,293 compared with average startup capital for nonfranchised firms of $30,156. In 1987 nonfranchised firms reported average pre-tax net income of $19,744 as compared to a loss of (-$1,548) for franchised firms. Dr. Bates concluded “Despite their larger revenues, much better capitalization, and their supposed advantages of affiliation with a franchisor parent firm, the franchisees lag behind cohort young firms in profitability and rates of survival.”The franchise companies ignore both studies by Dr. Bates, pretending they never happened. Instead, other techniques are employed. For example, some franchise companies use misleading success statistics to sell their franchises. Their promotional materials say franchises generally enjoy a 90% success rate, compared to less than 20% for independent firms. These figures are based on unverified information supplied thirty years ago by a select, non-representative group of franchise companies. A full third of the companies receiving “questionnaires “ elected not to participate. There was no verification of any of the information supplied by the franchise companies, not even random, spot checking. Nor was any effort made to identify franchise companies who, along with the franchise owners in their chain, had gone out of business.Even more recent “studies” saying nine out of ten franchise owners (90%) consider their franchise to be somewhat or very successful also suffer from serious methodological flaws. These were simply telephone surveys of franchise owners who were still in business and asked to say (with absolutely no definition of the term “successful”) whether they felt their business was “very unsuccessful,” “somewhat unsuccessful,” somewhat successful” or “very successful.” Franchise owners who had gone out of business or bankrupt were not included in the survey.Even if terms are defined and a representative sample obtained, franchise owners can be a quirky group. Hence the need, as in Dr. Bates’ studies, for review of financial data. I remember evaluating an existing franchise for a client. I asked the current owner of the franchise if his business was successful. He said it was very successful. But his financial statements revealed a different picture. He’d never taken a dollar out of the business for himself, never made a profit in two years of operation, and was on the verge of bankruptcy. Another owner of a bakery franchise, interviewed by Business Week, says being successful in franchising means “adjusting your definition of success.” He says he makes a profit, but declined to say what it is, or if he’s ever recouped his $250,000-plus initial franchise investment. Incredibly, he insists he’s in business “for lifestyle reasons, not profit reasons.” Huh? Probably a quote from the company’s franchise recruitment materials. In the world of franchising “success” and “profitability” are very subjective terms.FRANCHISE BROKERS WHO FIND YOUR PERFECT MATCH?Does the franchise you are considering have its own in-house marketing department, or does it utilize outside franchise brokers? The use of franchise brokers is a definite red flag. First, it indicates the franchise company is not very serious about who it lets into the franchise network, or even worse, they’re desperate to sell franchises. Second, franchise brokers receive a substantial commission up to 50% or more of the franchise fee you’re paying the franchise company. Franchise Broker Realities: (1) Their service is definitely not “free” despite these and other similar misrepresentations. It’s really common sense – how could anyone offer a “free” service and survive in business? Unfortunately, the common sense part of the brain tends to short circuit when the franchise brainwashing process begins. The simple truth is if you buy one of the franchises they’re hawking, your money goes to the franchise company, then into the broker’s pocket. If anyone ever calculated how much time they spend to collect their $15,000 or $20,000 commission, it’s probably a lot more than a brain surgeon earns. (2) Franchise brokers definitely do NOT have your best interests in mind. They will do or say whatever they have to in order to close a deal and earn their commission.Many franchise brokers claim they will help you find a franchise company that is the perfect match for you. In the beginning it sounds good. There’s some personality testing and review of your personal finances. At the end of the day, it turns out they only represent (and steer you towards) a handful of small franchise companies you’ve never heard of before. A detailed analysis often reveals these highly touted franchises produce mediocre or even below minimum wage financial performance. Yet franchise brokers don’t mention this, and individuals continue to rely on their recommendations, believing the broker represents them. Nothing could be further from the truth.Also, many franchise brokers call themselves franchise consultants. A franchise consultant is usually an independent adviser who offers advice to others (usually franchise companies or firms that want to franchise their business) for a fee. This makes their advice more impartial in theory as long as they are not compensated by third parties. Because they are not legally required to disclose actual or potential conflicts of interest, it’s important ask questions. For example, if you’re using a franchise consultant who is recommending the “best franchises,” are they paid anything by the companies on their list? This could be a commission, kick-back or consulting fee. As mentioned, many franchise brokers call themselves “franchise consultants” to hide their true identity. So, make sure if you’re dealing with a franchise consultant, he or she is not really just a franchise broker in disguise.FRANCHISE DISCLOSURE LAWSThe franchise disclosure laws, while requiring franchise companies to give you certain, limited information, don’t come close to protecting your interests. For example, as discussed above, Item 7 of the Franchise Offering Circular only requires an estimate of additional funds for 90 days as part of the investment information. But economic reality is you need to know the additional funds you’ll need to reach the break-even point, which can be years away, or your entire “initial” investment will go down the drain. You’d think this type of information would be required by franchise disclosure laws, but it’s not.FRANCHISE REGISTRATION LAWSDon’t ever assume that because a company has registered its Franchise Offering Circular in your state, someone at the state has approved or reviewed the document in your favor. Franchise registration is obtained by simply forwarding documents and paying a filing fee – period. In most cases, franchise offering circulars are given an extremely limited review to ensure state-specific disclaimers are present.I remember filing a registration application for a new franchise company in a state with a reputation for being one of the “toughest” franchise registration law states in the country. After the three-week review period set forth in the statute had gone by, and not hearing anything, I called the examiner assigned to the application. After looking through his files, he finally found my client’s offering circular and application. He apologized for entirely misplacing the file and promised to immediately review the application and call me back. Ten minutes later, he called to say he’d finished and was making the registration effective that day. Ten minutes of review and the franchise company was given the state’s green light. This is not an isolated case – it happens all the time.WHAT STANDARDS MUST A FRANCHISE COMPANY MEET TO SELL FRANCHISES; ARE THERE ANY REQUIREMENTS TO FRANCHISE A BUSINESS?Incredibly, the answer is – none. There are no minimum standards or requirements to franchise a business except preparing a Franchise Offering Circular. It’s yet another bizarre reality in the world of franchising.You and I could have no background in any business, form a new corporation or LLC, capitalize it with only $1, put together a Franchise Disclosure Document and file it with any franchise registration state. While the offering may be subject to an impound or escrow requirement because of the low capitalization ($1), we’d still get “registered” and be able to sell as many franchisees as we want.In these 14 franchise registration states, we may not be able to receive any money until each franchise actually opened, but simply posting a bond would alleviate this difficulty in the franchise registration states. And in the vast majority of states there are no franchise registration laws, so we’d be able to sell franchises and collect fees with impunity once we compiled our Franchise Offering Circular. The federal FTC Franchise Rule doesn’t protect against this risk either – it only requires disclosure (i.e. provide a Franchise Disclosure Document) and has no registration component or minimum standards for franchise companies.Basic investor protections and requirements found in both federal and state securities laws for over 50 years were never carried over to franchise investments. While most non-blue chip franchise companies could never even qualify to sell you a single share of stock in their company, they are entirely free to collect unlimited franchise fees, ongoing royalties, equipment and other purchases, as well as cause you to incur financial obligations totaling hundreds of thousands of dollars, or even millions in some cases. This isn’t information you’re likely to find in the glowing articles about franchising and franchise companies prevalent in the media.CLOSING REMARKSRemember, you are the only guardian when it comes to your franchise investment. It’s definitely an environment where the phrase “Buyer Beware” applies. So, before you sign on the line and make what will undoubtedly be the most serious financial and emotional commitment of your life, get all the facts and figures.One couple I counseled after-the-fact, invested $2 million in a new franchise company. The contract they signed gave them no right to terminate, no matter what the franchise company did or didn’t do. Of course, the contract gave the franchise company unlimited termination ability, a right it had exercised. The franchise company’s management team had no one with experience in running a franchise company. Incredibly, the couple had not spent a dime on legal or business advice before investing $2 million. The once friendly franchise company had transformed into a formidable foe and was poised to take over their franchise. Sadly, this happens too frequently in franchise investments. Decisions are made on fuzzy feelings and emotionalism. In an effort to save a couple thousand dollars, franchise investors risk homes, retirement savings, everything they have. Then they scratch their heads in amazement later on after inevitable and often horrific problems develop, wondering how they could have been so nearsighted.Another indispensable level of inquiry is whether you’re getting true franchise value and whether you’d be better off doing the business on your own. In the overwhelming majority of franchises touted by unknown companies, franchise value isn’t there and doing the same thing independently makes better economic sense and actually decreases the risk of failure.Finally, and this applies to franchise investments as well as investing in any business venture, develop a plan to succeed but also plan a franchise exit strategy that minimizes financial risk in case things don’t work out. Both plans need to be thought through before the investment is made. Don’t wait until problems develop to start thinking about a franchise exit strategy – by then it’s usually too little, too late.
For more information, visit the Franchise Foundations Website.
© 1990-2008, Kevin B. Murphy, B.S., M.B.A., J.D. – all rights reserved
January 30th, 2010
posted in Investment News
Slovenia property investment is hot and it has recently been named one of the best 10 countries to invest in the world. This article will look at Slovenia property investment and the potential for capital growth which has been estimated at up to 280% over the next ten years.
When investing in overseas property a number of factors need to be considered which include:
The countries Political stability, economic growth and housing values at the present compared to possible future growth.
Slovenia property investing has become popular with savvy property investors all over the world, due to its potential to earn great capital growth and solid rental incomes from the buoyant buy-to-let market.
1. Economy
One of the newest members of the European Union (joining in 2004) with the top performing economy of any of the recent member states.
Government macro economic policies have seen Slovenia achieve and sustain great growth.
The Slovenian economy features:
Small external imbalances and public debt, while at the same time lowering inflation and keeping interest rates in line with the rest of the euro economy. EU entry has increased confidence which in turn has increased trade and increased growth, and overseas investment has increased steadily as a result and this has also seen property investment rise dramatically.
Per capita incomes have reached about 80 percent of EU-average for year end 2006.
With growth rates running at around 5% per annum Slovenia’s economic future looks solid. It is this economic expansion which is driving house prices up, as higher incomes and people looking for second overseas homes has increased the demand for quality housing stock.
2. Geography & Communications
Slovenia is only small, compact country and is around half the size of Switzerland or the size of Wales, yet it is beautiful with diverse scenic beauty.
Located to the east of the Trieste region of Italy, it also has borders with Croatia, Austria and Hungary making it a country at the crossroads between the established western economies and the new emerging nations of the east.
Slovenia makes a great base to explore a host of nearby countries and attractions – Venice, Prague and Budapest are all within a day trip.
Many investors who buy a Slovenia investment property are skiers. You can Ski in three countries in one day with one ski pass in these three countries Italy, Austria and of course Slovenia
Slovenia has good infrastructure and communications which is great news for the economy and tourism generally.
With budget airlines flying direct to Slovenia and offering frequent and cheap flights, more people are getting easy access to the delights of this country.
3. Beauty
Slovenia is a beautiful country. The country features all the following:
Stunning mountains, tranquil lakes, alpine forests, valleys, dotted with vineyards and finally, a beautiful stretch of Adriatic coastline. There are also bustling cities and towns such as the capital Ljubljana, the coastal town of Piran with their many attractions and plenty more. Ljubljana is popular with investors and has been compared to Prague and features beautiful baroque architecture, lovely church spires and a cosmopolitan atmosphere.
There is much to enjoy and that leads on to next point which is boosting Slovenia property investment.
4. Tourism
Tourism is rapidly becoming one of the most important industries in Slovenia, as it catches up with its neighbors who have promoted their tourist industries more aggressively until now.
5. Quality Housing
The capital has become popular with overseas property investors, who are taking advantage of growth rates of 30 – 40% per annum. The city reflects the economic growth of the country and new housing is lagging behind demand. This is due to strict local planning laws, which are restricting the flow of quality housing and demand is out stripping supply.
Primorska on the coast and the mountainous area of Gorenjska are the next most expensive places to buy in Slovenia but offer great returns.
6. A Boom in Its Infancy
Property booms tend to last for a long time and the boom in Slovenia investment property looks to be no different. With prices starting at around £40,000 and a wide choice of areas that remain relatively undeveloped there is a wide choice to suit all tastes and budgets.
7. Potential
With capital growth forecast to be up to 280% for the next decade, Slovenian investment property offers solid returns in a safe and stable environment.
You can of course also get rental incomes in the major towns such as Ljubljana and a host of other developing areas offering Slovenian property for sale which include:
The holiday resorts of Lake Bled and Lake Bohinj, Maribor, the beautiful coastal city of Piran and the ski resorts of the Kranska Gora region, as well as the Soca Valley – an area of outstanding natural beauty.
8. Ease of Purchase
The buying process in Slovenia is designed to protect both buyers and sellers and local finance is also available from banks and secured locally on the property. All details are held at a central Land registry, making ownership rights clearly visible to all – which is not the case in many countries!
9. Its Safe & Friendly
Slovenia has friendly, helpful, courteous people and an absence of serious crime making it a welcoming country which leaves an impression on all who visit the country.
Slovenia property Investment offers overseas buyers a lot and buying property in Slovenia has never been more popular and it’s easy to see why.
Discover Slovenia property investment and you maybe glad you did.
January 27th, 2010
posted in Property Investment
In our investment work when we get involved in stock investing, we do hands on stock research. Here are 12 basic stock investing rules that you may follow for successful trading. The stock market is driven by earnings, and a good stock investing course will teach you to judge the emotional state of the stock market.
Basic concept behind stock investing before getting involved in the stock trading, you should be well versed with its concept as this will help you in achieving success every time you trade. Now with all these information presented to you, it is now your choice whether you will get involved in penny stock investing. With ETF investing, you get the best of stock investing (ease of trading) and the best of mutual fund investing (built-in diversification) all in one investment vehicle.
When taking a stock investing course you may learn a few things that your broker may not even be aware of. Unlike stock investing, you need strong credit to use other people’s money to finance investment property. As you might imagine, the ads under stocks generally (which includes broad search terms like ’stock investing’) are seen the most, because most searchers begin with generic inquiries.
So if you are new to investing in the stock market take some time and learn how to by taking a stock investing course. Stock investing is relatively volatile and full of uncertainty. The more forex stock investing trades you make with a high probability of success, the more successful you will be.
Stock investing takes a great deal of research however if you make good investing decisions, it can have a high rate of return. Stock investing is a popular tool that many use for creating wealth. It is not difficult at all to succeed in stock investing.
They don’t know anything about stock investing and they often lose a few thousand dollars very quickly. You have to weigh both the pros and the cons of small cap stock investing before you sink any of your hard earned money into anything. In the real world, the world of stock investing, you should always put money after your best ideas.
It is also the hardest part to master in stock investing. Penny stock investing is a junior level course at least. Fraudsters don’t think twice before developing stock investing, commodity or option trading courses to make a little extra money for themselves regardless of whether or not what they teach helps their students.
Also, online stock investing has opened the door wide for overseas stock trading, giving you more investment opportunities than ever. In this manner, stock investing is much like surfing: spotting when or when not to ride the waves. So, before putting any money into stocks, the first question you should ask is what do you want to achieve with stock investing.
The second richest man in the world, Warren Buffett, has made his millions from stock investing. Social networking has been intergraded into many stock investing courses. When you take a closer look, the alternative means of extra income via stock investing is just a spin-off of earning from a business.
Online stock investing has helped a lot in saving time and money by enjoying the thrill of trade at your convenience in the ambience of your home. What any ‘vexed’ shareholders are forgetting, and he is not, is that Rule 1 in stock investing is, don’t lose money. Penny stock investing can be profitable.
January 27th, 2010
posted in Investment News
If investors want to buys stocks or bonds, they can call up their brokers and quickly make the purchase. They can also buy stocks online with the push of a button. Commodities such as gold and silver, however, are more difficult to buy because of the the complicated way in which they trade through futures and options markets.
Whatever the current price of gold is, many people wish to learn how to invest in gold. Metals such as gold and silver are called commodities and they are more complicated than stocks for the normal investor because there are different ways you can invest in them.
Luckily, investing in gold is one of the easier commodities to invest in. One option is that you can invest in gold coins that are obtained from a dealer and from some banks. If you do this, though, you will have to find a safe way to store the gold. Many people who have gold store it in bank safe deposit boxes. This seems to be the most secure method of storage.
The second way to invest in gold is to buy an ETF. Exchange traded funds work much like stocks and they can be bought and sold any time the stock market is open. These funds mirror the price of gold and so even though you do not directly own any gold, you have a fund that has exposure to it. Investing in gold through ETF’s is probably the easiest method and the most recommended method of gold investment for the average investor.
The third and most complicated way to invest in gold is to trade futures and options in the commodities market. This takes a lot of knowledge and experience to know what you are doing and it is not advised for the normal investor. Trading futures and options is something that you learn how to do over time and it is not usual for most gold investors to take this route.
Investing in gold is not as intimidating as it sounds. Usually people can easily buy ETF’s and this is by far the most popular way. As the current price of gold fluctuates, these ETF funds go up and down correspondingly. If you like to have the physical gold in your hands you can always buy it but then the safety issue comes into play. Whichever method or methods you use for your investments in gold, you will still have the benefits of owning the most treasured metal in earth’s history.
January 27th, 2010
posted in Gold Investment
January 26th, 2010
posted in Investment News
Gold Investment is an old age tactic of putting your money into something that you feel will increase in value over time. It is a liquid and tangible investment. There are so many motives behind gold investment. Some invest in the hope of future increment in the value, some because they love the yellow metal, some other for price speculation and so on.
Gold is slightly more risky than bonds, so you should be careful to pay attention to this. However, as a long term investing strategy, gold has steadily increased in value over time. Also, part of the reason that gold is worth so much money is due to its comparative rarity. Even though it is rare, If the markets were to become flooded, chances are good that you would lose money. However, gold has a tendency to stay relatively stable, or to increase its value, over time. The rarity of gold is what keeps it’s value up.
It can be a trading item, store of value, investment, insurance and others. You have the options of investing in gold, gold stock, gold bullion, gold certificates, options, forward contracts, gold linked notes and such other gold related options. Trading gold has also been an old established business. Trading may be like other currencies for future appreciation in the value.
How stable is gold investing? Well, the demand for gold is much higher than its supply. As you can tell, this is already good for people who are thinking about gold investing. Once there is more supply than demand, the price starts to rise. Since the demand for gold is almost twice the amount that is actually mined, the prices for gold are likely to go up steadily.
Speculation is the main cause for trading. There may be different types of gold investors like people who store gold, people who include in their portfolio, banks who keep part of their deposit in gold, financial institutions, gold bugs, speculator, petroleum speculator, portfolio hedger etc.
Gold may be included in your investment portfolio. But with other investment strategy, gold investment should be a part of your portfolio not the whole portfolio. Exposure to only one kind of investment can have negative effects should you run into a down time. You can invest in gold but with some research and knowledge. Investing is interesting but may be destructive for your investments. Like stock investing, in gold investing also you should do research and fundamental and technical analysis.
Just like diversifying your total investment portfolio, one thing that you should keep in mind about gold investing, is that you should not put all of your money into one type of gold investment. You should also not just go out and buy a bunch of physical gold. While this is a good way to build a solid and insured foundation, you should also be investing in some of the other parts of the gold industry. For instance, if you invest in gold mines that are not producing at their top amount yet, or in potential gold mines, you stand a chance of making more money in the future.
Gold values are currently at all time highs as the US dollar weakens in value, and oil prices continue to rise. The perfect time to invest in gold would have been a few years ago up to last year, however, timing the market is not the best strategy for non active investors. Dollar cost averaging is best for non active investors. What you would do is purchase gold in even increments over time, and the over all average cost of the acquisitions lowers as you buy gold in up times, as well as down times.
January 25th, 2010
posted in Gold Investment
There are actually many ways to invest in gold to take advantage of its bullish fundamental activations. You could buy gold itself, buy gold stocks, or buy gold derivatives. Just as any other sector, there are gold investments possibilities out there to meet the unique risk tolerance and capital development of a potential gold investor. Before you invest in gold, you should carefully consider what percentage of your overall portfolio you are willing to risk in gold- related investments. If you are totally new to gold and you are just getting your feet wet, protect allocations of under 5% of your capital will be great plenty. Later as you investigate gold become more familiar with the gold world, you can increase your capital allocation to gold investments.
Gold is a proven way to preserve wealth when your local currency may be loosing its value. Gold is also valuable for things beyond investments and this is demonstrated by the ever growing demand for gold. In fact, over the last decade, consumption of gold has actually exceeded production. And since the production of gold is controlled by relatively few companies, whenever the price of gold dips below current production cost, these companies ceases operations. Also gold is a good way to diversify or hedge an investment portfolio since the price of gold does not necessarily move with stock prices.
For example, investing in jewelry can be profitable. The purchases and holding of gold jewelry for investment purposes is much more common outside of the United States. This is an expensive way to collect gold since a premium will be paid for the craftsmanship associated with making gold jewelry. Along with higher inflation and global instability, important driver of the gold prices this year is expected to be increasing demand for jewelry in developing countries. Jewelry accounts for 70% of total demand of gold. Specifically, women see gold jewelry as both a fashion item to enhance emotional well- being and as an intrinsically valuable investment.
Now a combination of factors, including a weakening dollar are aligning to drive gold prices higher as gold had been loosing investment. Meanwhile, the demand is surging. Markets such as Indian and China with gold ownership have largely been confined to jewelry. Gold was in use as a form of money, in one form or the other. Gold are assets that are both tangible and liquid too.
Gold is a long term, low risk yet profitable investment. Gold is a must in every serious investor’s portfolio. But what if you don’t have knowledge, experience, skill or time to invest in gold by yourself? Then you should leave it to the expert like us. By leaving it to us, we ensure you’ll make profit of 2% monthly, 112% after six months or 124% per annum. Find out more here GenuineGold.biz
January 23rd, 2010
posted in Gold Investment
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