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Choosing The Right Bene-Fit Plan For Your Needs

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Bene-Fit Wellness Solutions are a group of fitness professionals who provide body and mind packages to groups, corporates, and individuals. As a health collective, they assist customers by providing plans which incorporate nutrition, workout, breath therapy, coaching, and more.

How do you choose a Bene-Fit Plan for your needs?

First, let’s have a look at their services.

Precisely, Bene-Fit Wellness Solutions’ services range across Fitness, Nutrition, and Breath Work. Their fitness programme are designed to suit your goals and abilities. Therefore, you don’t have to worry about competing with already-established gymnasts or going too hard on your first day. What even better, you can pace yourself with their programme and become fit on your own terms.

Their nutrition packages include working with a nutrition expert to create healthy habits and accelerate results, so you are not left at the mercy of trial and error. Based on your body type, you immediately know what foods are best for you and how to manage your diet. You can even learn to pair your nutrition withh your fitness programme so that you get the best out of both!

BeneFitness Slings

Their services on breath work includes exercises around yoga breathing, mobility and stretch to improve all aspects of well being. As resounded by their mantra, Bene-Fit Wellness Solutions believe in changing lives through wellness, and building strong minds and bodies, one class at a time. Whatever your preference, you can get accessible and personalised workout and nutrition plans in person, from the comfort of your home, or your office.

The benefits of Bene-Fit seem inexhaustible however. Apart from their core services around fitness, nutrition and breath work, they also offer customised wellness packages, to suit each customer’s unique need. The customised Bene-Fit packages have been designed to encourage, motivate, and maximise results in short, effective sessions, and there are a variety of them:

Customised Wellness Packages

The 6-Week Bene-Fit Programme:

This programme is designed for the workplace! You can sign up to a 6-week course of private fitness classes tailored to you and your colleagues. There are 3 x 30 minute sessions a week or 2 x 45 minute sessions a week to choose from. At the beginning and end of the 6-week course, you get a fitness and wellness assessment, with measured vital stats to help keep tabs on your progress. The package also provides you and your colleagues with a food plan, shopping list, and food tips to help you make simple changes that suit your lifestyle. So if you’re a working class professional with a busy schedule, this sounds like something that’s right up your alley, instead of idly burning calories at your nearest gym.

workout equipment

The 6-Week Zoom Fitness Programme:

This one is ideal for the remote worker; designed for those that don’t want to leave their houses in order to be fit. With their online classes that you can take anytime, anywhere, you’ll never miss a session again! Without a doubt, the biggest increase in demand we’ve seen so far has been virtual everything. From virtual learning, virtual meetings – so why not virtual fitness? Bene-Fit has taken their onsite programmes onto Zoom and haven’t skipped a beat.

Sessions are a combination of total body/HIIT/core/stretch for all fitness levels and they provide modified and low impact exercise options. Even if you can’t make it along to the online classes, they’ve got you covered – every class is recorded and sent out to the group on the same day. Pretty swell, yes?

Ladies Who Lunge Bene-Fit Programme:

This 28-day online programme is designed for the ladies! (I think this deserves a round of applause. Finally, something for the ladies…)

With this package, you can sign up to a 28-day programme including nutrition, education around intermittent fasting, breath work, and exercise. Members are provided with a 7-day food plan and shopping list. HIIT workout videos 2x per week to complement your own daily exercise, Facebook live chats and Q&A sessions, and private Facebook support groups – with daily motivational info, recipes, and tips to help you make simple changes that suit your lifestyle.

Bene-Fit Equipments

The Bene-Fit 30-Day Challenge:

BFIT30 is a 30-day wellness initiative with a difference. Most short-term fitness challenges are now app-based and lack personal interaction and direction. BFit 30 is an initiative by Bene-Fit Wellness to change the narrative and create an optimal month-long challenge without compromising service delivery and still manage to keep the cost down for participants. This programme includes live daily group exercise sessions, food plans and a commitment to “The 30” wellness-themed goals to help maximise the results. It’s a mix of some easy wins and a few that will demand a bit of discipline. The group exercise sessions are tailored so that those who consider themselves very unfit can still get the job done.

One-on-One “Bene-Fits”:

Bene-Fit customised packages also include one-on-one, 30 minute sessions with a personal trainer (PT) on Fitness Coaching, Nutrition, and Breath Work. Whether online or in-person, depending on your preference. Each session is designed especially for you to achieve your personal goals. 

The benefits of Bene-Fit are truly inexhaustible. Outdoor bootcamps are also part of their wellness packages, suitable for the outdoor-sy ones. There is also the “Spin at work” package to foster camaraderie between teams in the workplace, and a recreation centre for total body workout. Really, with Bene-Fit Wellness Solutions, there is truly something for everyone!

How to Choose The Right Walmart Jobs for Your Skills and Experiences

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Walmart is one of the world’s largest companies by revenue. If you want to be a part of the Walmart family, then your application should shine with the right skills and experience. With over 10,500 retail openings across different countries in the world, Walmart offers a wide range of job openings yearly. However in order to have a successful application, you have to apply with the right skills set and experience. At the end of this article you will already know how to choose the right Walmart jobs for your skills and experience.

Walmart Employee skill set

Some of the skills set needed as a Walmart employee are: Problem solving, Prioritization, Time management, Ability to multitask, customer service, record keeping, product knowledge, Scheduling, Communication, Calendar management, Math skill, Planning, Team work, interpersonal skills, inventory management, cleaning and maintenance , stocking shelves, unloading trucks. All of these will be explained later in the article to provide better knowledge for choosing the right Walmart jobs.

What your Walmart Resume should look like

Let us touch on what your resume should look like for different job roles at Walmart. This will help you get the right role for your experience. You should check all of the points listed below in preparing you resume: 

Resume Format

This point is to convince the hiring manager that you possess the right skill set for the job. This is as important as when you choose your job role at Walmart. Since the main task of an employee at Walmart is to provide customers with an excellent shopping experience, then your resume has to show that you have what it takes. This could mean a variety of things depending on the position you are applying for. From stocking, check out, customer experience and even to store management. Your resume must include your basic information and up to date contact information. Try to fit your resume into one page. That’s the advised resume length if you have less than 15 years of relevant experience. Make sure your resume is submitted in the requested format. 

Resume Profile

You will need a resume profile containing an introduction statement regardless of the role you are applying for. In this profile summary, mention the job title you are applying for, your experience in relevant fields and your achievements to impress and catch the reader’s attention. However if you do not have enough experience for a summary, simply write a resume objective. 

Walmart Job Description

After you have read and understood the job description for the role that you are applying for, the next thing is to make it the center of your resume. You do not want to bore the reader with irrelevant information about your skills and experience if they do not align with what Walmart is searching for. Use the reverse chronological format when writing your experience. Start with the most recent stating relevant duties and achievements. Make sure your resume targets Walmart specifically.

Other information

This stage, you add some other necessities to your resume. Go ahead to add your certification and licenses, volunteer jobs, hobbies and interests, awards and achievements, language skills and the likes. This will also help your application to stand out from the crowd. You can also view the tips for a successful interview at Walmart.

Most required skills for Walmart application

Customer service skills

This is one of the most important skills needed to be a part of the Walmart family. It is important for you to provide a positive experience for your customers. You should be able to attend to customer complaints and queries. Answer their questions in a resort and professional way. Listen to their needs and always ensure to create a good impression on each one of them. 

Product knowledge

As an associate , you should be able to understand and explain the features, benefits and uses of a product. You can not achieve this without good product knowledge. Walmart expects you to be able to answer questions about the products you sell. This way, you can make informed recommendations to customers, thereby increasing sales.

Team work

This is the ability to work well and interact in the appropriate way in a team. As an employee, you will seldom be working on tasks and projects with other employees. This skill is needed when completing any task at work or volunteering for projects. It will help you collaborate with your co-workers more effectively and increase productivity. It also allows you to build good relationships.

Interpersonal skills

This is an important skill set a Walmart employee should have. Its the ability to communicate with customers, and even co-workers, and understand their emotions. This will help you have a great connection with customers, and also interact in a team.

Merchandising

This is the process of arranging products in an attractive way that encourages customers to buy them. As an associate, you will need these skills when arranging products on the shelves and tables. You should have an attention to details and creativity so you can display products in ways that are more appealing for customers to buy them.

Cleaning and maintenance

 This skill is necessary for working in retail. As an associate, you may be responsible for cleaning the aisle of your department or overall cleaning of the store. You may also be required to maintain inventory levels and also perform routine maintenance on office equipment. 

Unloading trucks

For associates in the receiving department , this is a necessary skill to have. You will be required to move items from delivery trucks to storage and ensure that each one of these products are accounted for. You should be able to lift up to an average of 50 pounds.

If you already have all these skills set, then congratulations you are on your way to getting your dream job at Walmart. If you do not already, then you should start working on having and improving on these skills.

How to Set Up and Use an eSIM on Your iPhone

What is an eSIM?

An eSim is smaller than a regular Micro Sim and even a Nano Sim. It is often attached to the integrated circuit of a device which allows users to activate a cellular plan from the carrier.

eSim or embedded SIM cards are digital sims embedded directly into a device.

eSims make it possible to set up, use and enjoy the benefits of a regular SIM card without having to buy a physical SIM card.

It means with eSIM, you can have an empty SIM tray and still be able to make calls, surf the web and make use of your phone as if a SiM were in it.

According to Trusted Connectivity Alliance, eSims have gained a 9% popularity increase since 2021 and has reached a total shipment number of 337 million units.

How does an eSIM work?

For an iPhone to be eSim compatible, it has to have an eUICC chip permanently attached to its integrated circuit. This makes it possible to use eSim services and multiple service providers on a single iPhone device this means devices that do not have this chip installed cannot have access to or use eSim services. It simply allows you to connect to your service provider’s cell towers, make calls and browse the internet.

Which iPhone models can use eSIMs?

Only the newer generations of iPhones like the iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, iPhone XR, or later have the eUICC chip installed in them and as a result are eSIM compatible. The United States version of the iPhone 14 does not have a SIM tray included and is strictly an eSIM device. Unfortunately, earlier versions of the iPhone do not have this chip installed and therefore cannot use the eSIM.

Now you know what an eSim is, what it does, and how it works. But what if I want to use eSiMs on my iPhone? How do I set it up and activate it?

What you need for eSIM activation to be smooth and successful;

All you’ll need is…

  • An Phone XS, iPhone XS Max, iPhone XR, or later.
  • A Wireless carrier or worldwide service provider that supports eSIM.
  • An Internet connection.
Setting up your iPhone

How to set up and use eSim on iPhone

Follow these simple steps to easily set up and use eSIM on your iPhone.

  • Go to setting on your device.
  • Click on Cellular or Mobile data.
  • Click on ‘add eSIM’.

You will get two options ‘transfer from a nearby phone” and “scan QR code”.

To activate via QR code, you have to scan the unique QR code given from the service provider and you’re good to go.

You can manually enter the activation details provided to you by your service provider and follow the onscreen prompts to fully activate your eSIM.

When transferring from an old iPhone to a new one, it is important that the old iPhone is password protected, has bluetooth enabled and is on the IOS16. Once you’re certain all this requirements are met, you can begin your transfer.

To complete your transfer:

  • Go to Settings on your new iPhone.
  • Click on Cellular or Mobile Data.
  • Click on Add Data Plan.
  • Choose a mobile data plan to transfer from another device.

At this point you would most likely see a list of numbers, but if you don’t, click on transfer from another device. Both devices have to be on iOS 16 or later.

Check for instructions on your previous iPhone to confirm the transfer.

To confirm, click on Transfer, and if you’re asked to input a verification code, enter the code that’s displayed on your new iPhone. Wait for the mobile data plan to be activated on your new iPhone.

The previous SIM will be deactivated when the mobile data plan on your new iPhone is activated. If notification appears on your new iPhone that prompts you to ”Finish Setting Up Your Network Provider’s Data Plan”, click on it..

It will automatically redirect to your network provider’s web page to transfer your eSIM.

If you encounter any difficulty during this process, please contact your network provider.

eSIM

Advantages of using the eSIM on your iPhone

  • eSIM are resistant to damage, which makes them more durable compared to the normal SIM.
  • eSIM lets you use multiple accounts on a single iPhone without having to switch sim cards.
  • eSIM gives you easy access to service providers in other countries, this helps to avoid expensive roaming charges.

How Does Recession Affect the Economy: The Effect and Impacts

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All businesses, whether big or small, experience a decline in sales and profit during a recession. Many businesses are worried for the next recession because of the rise in inflation rates and negative gross domestic product (GDP) data that upshoots as a result.. Recession is a periodic occurrence that causes abrupt downturn by interrupting economic growth. Regardless of the business size, there will always be an effect , negative most times, whenever there is a recession. During a recession, smaller businesses have smaller margins of error that can curb credit access, slow collections and even lead to bankruptcies in business. Larger businesses have more of a financial cushion that can help them withstand the downturn.

People usually experience significant impacts on their daily lives. There is increased prices of everything shooting up, from groceries, to clothes and even food items. Consumers could even begin to experience the recession effect long before it becomes official. It is important to be aware of how your business or company can be affected by an economic downturn. This will help ensure your business does not become one of the casualties of the upcoming recessions. Companies like retailers and suppliers of technology with high fixed costs face an excessive hit to the bottom line as the profit declines. Demand will reduce and manufacturers may experience bloated inventories enforcing them to slow output until demand improves again.

What is Recession?

A recession is a significant, widespread and prolonged contraction in economic activity(Investopedia). Recession is used to describe a slowdown in general economic activity or when there is a decrease in the economy’s performance. This decrease extends to a period of several months. Recession, in macroeconomics, is officially recognized after two consecutive quarters of GDP growth rates resulting in higher unemployment rates and lower consumer spending. These are some of the indicators that are looked out for when deciding to declare a recession. Lets see them under the effects below

Covid 19 pandemic and the fear of recession

The Effect of Recession on the Economy

Staff/employee layoffs

Companies want to cut costs during recession. The inflation rates then tend to go down as a result of decrease in consumption rate. These job layoffs then create a vicious cycle of an economic slowdown. Companies want to cut off capital spending and marketing, resulting in employees lay offs. It may become tougher to find a new job as the available vacancies become limited with more people contending for them. For example, during the covid-19 pandemic, the US Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that the number of unemployed persons rose by 15.9 million to 23.9 million in April,2023.

Increased Cost of Living

As a result of inflation, you may realize that gasoline, groceries, clothes and other household essentials become more expensive than before. Therefore in order to cut excessive spending, people tend to have strict budgets.

Industrial Production/Manufacturing Reduces

Manufacturing industries/businesses always cut down on production in response to the rising cost of raw materials during recession. This can contribute to an overall decrease in economic activity because there is a high tendency for exports to decrease during this period. As mentioned earlier, there was an abrupt fall of overall manufacturing activity in the United States manufacturing activities as a result of the Great Recession, leading to a 10% decline in employment in manufacturing.

Reduced production/manufacturing process

Decrease In Retail Sales

Retail sales is an aspect of consumer spending which depicts the total amount of money consumers spend on goods and services. Generally retail sales will decrease because people have less money to spend during a recession. Consequently as retail sales decline, there will be new measures by businesses to reduce cost, which may include laying off workers, and some others may even shut down.

Long Term Impact

An economic recession can leave a ‘scar’ behind- the negative effects on the economy could be longer than expected, it may also take a longer time for businesses and individuals to recover from this. Some of the evident proof demonstrating the long term impact of recession are:

Unemployed worker as a result of Recession

Damaged Economy

A large percentage of all sectors of the economy will often be affected by recession. There will be higher unemployment rate, lower wages and income, lost economic opportunities, and this is bad for the economy. Though there tends to be rapid growth during the recovery period, the effect of the downturn will still prevent the recovery from reaching the best it could.

Unemployment/Job Loss

Unemployment obviously does not just affect the individual who loses the job only, it also impacts the family members. Even after securing a new job after a recession, which will often come at a lower salary, the negative impact can still stay for years.

Education

As rise in poverty causes many families face financial hardships, many children will suffer hunger or malnutrition. They may not have access to adequate health service. This will affect their reading comprehension, grade attainment, cognitive ability and consequently, their earnings later in life. In other cases, children may be forced to stop their education for a while. They may even be asked to stop permanently.

Rise in poverty causes many families face financial hardships

Private Investment

This is perhaps the most obvious area in which economic growth can be slowed down because the central role of investment and technology has been long recognized by economists, as key contributors to economic growth. As a long term impact of recession, there could be decrease in investment spending and the adoption of new technologies.

Poverty & Wealth

Wealth and Poverty are part of what shapes the economy. Poverty is bad for the economy. In most cases, children who grow up in poverty are more likely to have low earnings or commit crimes later in life. Wealth provides a life line for when things are tough. These two have a large influence on the financial and educational achievement, cognitive development, behavioral and emotional outcome for kids and adults alike.

The Benefits of Investing in the Real Estate Housing Market: Growth Potential and Diversification

Investing in real estate is a widely accepted strategy for building wealth and diversifying investment portfolios. When executed correctly, real estate investment can provide numerous benefits. This may include appreciation of property value, consistent rental income, and a tangible asset. Both seasoned investors and beginners can benefit from a comprehensive understanding of the benefits of real estate investing, as it will allow them to make informed decisions to achieve their financial objectives. This article will delve into the key advantages of investing in the real estate housing market, with a particular emphasis on growth potential and diversification.

Investing in real estate housing market.

Growth Potential of Real Estate Housing Market

The real estate housing market is an attractive investment option for many people due to its growth potential. Property values have a history of appreciating over time, with some markets experiencing substantial growth over the course of a decade. The growth potential of real estate investments can result in substantial returns for investors who take a long-term approach.

A. Increase in Real Estate Housing Market Values Over Time

Property values generally tend to increase over time due to a variety of factors such as inflation, population growth, and economic development. As the demand for housing increases, the value of real estate properties tends to rise.

Inflation is a major factor in the growth of property values. As the cost of goods and services rise, so too does the cost of housing. This increase in cost is reflected in the value of properties. This makes real estate a hedge against inflation.

Population growth is another factor that drives the growth of the housing market. As the population grows, the demand for housing increases, leading to higher property values. This increase in demand is particularly evident in urban areas where population growth is highest.

Economic stability is also a key factor in the growth of the housing market. When the economy is strong, people have more disposable income, which they can use to purchase property. This increased demand leads to higher property values, making real estate a safe haven for those looking to protect their wealth.

B. Leverage of Other People’s Money through Mortgages

The real estate housing market provides excellent growth potential for investors by leveraging other people’s money through mortgages. Using the property as collateral. In this scenario, the borrower only needs to put down a portion of the total cost of the property, while the lender provides the remaining amount. This allows the borrower to leverage the lender’s money to purchase a property that they would otherwise not be able to afford. The borrower then repays the loan, with interest, over a set period of time. By taking a mortgage, an investor can purchase a property that is worth much more than the amount they have invested, thereby increasing their returns. As the value of the property increases, so does the investor’s equity in the property, providing them with even more financial security.

Diversification Benefits of Real Estate Housing Market

Investing in real estate offers exposure to a different asset class than traditional stocks and bonds, which can help to balance the portfolio and reduce overall risk. Real estate prices are not directly correlated with the stock market, so owning real estate properties can help to mitigate the impact of market volatility on your investments. Diversification is a key principle in investing, as it helps to reduce risk by spreading investments across different assets. The real estate housing market can play a significant role in reducing risk through diversification.

A. Diversification of Investment Portfolio

Real estate housing can be a valuable addition to an investment portfolio due to its potential for steady income through rent, long-term appreciation of property value, and its role as a hedge against inflation. The real estate market is relatively uncorrelated to other traditional financial markets, providing diversification benefits to an investment portfolio.

B. Reduction of Risk Through Spread of Investments

The real estate market goes through different cycles, including periods of growth, stability, and decline. Understanding these cycles can provide investors with opportunities to maximize returns and minimize risk. 

During a growth cycle, the demand for real estate is high, and property values are appreciating. This can provide an opportunity for investors to purchase property at a lower price and sell it at a higher price in the future.

In a stable market, demand and supply are in balance, and property values are not appreciating or depreciating significantly. This can provide an opportunity for investors to purchase property with the expectation of consistent rental income.

In a decline cycle, demand for real estate is low, and property values are depreciating. This can provide an opportunity for investors to purchase property at a lower price and hold onto it until the market turns around. Different real estate market cycles can provide different investment opportunities for investors.

C. Potential for Inflation Hedge

The real estate market has the potential to act as an inflation hedge, as property values tend to rise over time, outpacing inflation. Inflation erodes the value of money over time, and investing in assets that increase in value at a rate that outpaces inflation can help to mitigate the impact of inflation on an investment portfolio. This can help to protect the purchasing power of investments in real estate. Real estate is one such asset, as property values tend to appreciate over time, especially in areas with strong economic growth and high demand for housing.

The real estate market has the potential to act as an inflation hedge, as property values tend to increase over time and provide a source of rental income, helping to protect the purchasing power of investments and provide a stable stream of income.

The Future of the Real Estate Housing Market: Market Crash

A housing market crash is characterized by a rapid and severe drop in home prices, which reduces demand for housing. This can be caused by various factors, including an increase in interest rates, a decrease in demand for housing, or oversupply of housing units. A housing market meltdown can have an effect on the entire economy, affecting investors, homeowners, and the larger financial system.

The 2008 subprime mortgage crisis is a recent example of a housing market crash. There was sharp decrease in home values with many homeowners going into mortgage default, and sharp rise in foreclosures. This, in turn, resulted in the collapse of several large financial institutions, including Lehman Brothers and Bear Stearns.

Real Estate Market Falls. Red arrow down on the background of houses.

Reasons for a Housing Market Crash

Economic Recession

The most significant reason that may lead to a housing market crash is an economic recession. The current global economic outlook is not very positive, with many countries experiencing negative GDP growth. The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on economies worldwide. The unemployment rate in most countries has also gone up significantly, which has led to a decrease in consumer spending, including the purchase of houses. As a result, the demand for homes is declining, which might cause the housing market to fall.

  • Overbuilding: When there is an oversupply of housing units, prices can fall as developers fight for purchasers. This may result from misunderstanding market demand, overestimating population increase, or over constructing in an effort to meet anticipated demand.
  • Interest Rates: When interest rates rise, the cost of borrowing rises, which can reduce demand for housing. This can lead to a decline in home prices as buyers are unable to afford the higher costs.
  • Subprime Mortgage Crisis: This occurs when lenders provide mortgages to individuals who are unable to pay them back. This causes a huge increase in foreclosures, a drop in home values, and, eventually, the housing market to collapse.

Increase in Interest Rates

The housing market is dependent on interest rates. A rise in interest rates can make mortgages more expensive, making it difficult for people to buy homes. If interest rates continue to rise, it may become prohibitively expensive for consumers to purchase homes, reducing demand. This could lead to a decrease in house prices, which could trigger a housing market crash.

Oversupply of Housing

Another reason that may lead to a housing market crash is an oversupply of housing. An oversupply of housing means that there are more houses available in the market than there are buyers. This can happen if there is overbuilding or if the number of people selling their homes increases. An oversupply of housing can cause a drop in house prices and a drop in demand, perhaps resulting in a housing market catastrophe.

Changes in Government Policies

Government policies can have a significant impact on the housing market. For instance, changes in tax policies, building regulations, or zoning laws can impact the housing market. A shift in government policies can cause a drop in home demand, triggering a housing market meltdown.

The Current State of the Housing Market

The current state of the real estate housing market can be described as a seller’s market. Housing demand has increased significantly in the last year, resulting in a shortage of available homes. The COVID-19 pandemic has played a significant role in this surge in demand. With remote work becoming the norm, many people are looking for larger homes in suburban or rural areas, and some are even moving to different states. Additionally, historically low-interest rates have made buying a home more affordable, leading to an increase in demand the real estate market.

As a result of this demand, home prices have skyrocketed. According to the National Association of Realtors, the median home price in the United States reached $334,500 in December 2020, a 13.5% increase compared to the previous year. Additionally, homes are selling faster than ever before, with many receiving multiple offers and selling above asking price.

While this may seem like good news for homeowners and real estate investors, there are concerns about the sustainability of this growth. Many experts are worried that the housing market is in a bubble and that a market crash is inevitable.

What a Housing Market Crash Looks Like

A housing market crash can have a significant impact on the economy, people’s lives, and the real estate industry. The following are some of the ways in which a housing market crash can manifest:

  • Decline in House Prices

A housing market crash can lead to a significant decline in house prices. As a result, homeowners may find themselves in negative equity, which means that the value of their house is less than the amount owed on their mortgage. This can make it difficult for homeowners to sell their homes or refinance their mortgages in the real estate housing market.

  • Increase in Foreclosures

A housing market crash can lead to an increase in foreclosures. Homeowners who are unable to make their mortgage payments may default on their loans, leading to foreclosure. Foreclosures can lead to a decline in house prices, which could trigger a further housing market crash.

  • Increase in Unemployment

A housing market crash can lead to an increase in unemployment. The real estate business is a major employer, and a housing market meltdown can lead to reduction in work opportunities. Furthermore, if the economy is impacted, there may be job losses in other industries, leading to an increase in unemployment.

  • Decrease in Consumer Spending

A housing market crash can lead to a decrease in consumer spending. Homeowners who are in negative equity may not have the same level of disposable income as before, which could lead to a decrease in consumer spending. This can lead to a further decline in the economy.

Red 2023 cube blocks stop falling blocks protect house miniature. fall Business, Home Insurance, investment, Crisis, Economic recession, New Year, Real Estate and Property concept

2023 Housing Market Forecast

As we move further into 2023, experts in the housing industry are closely monitoring the economy, which continues to be impacted by various factors, such as high inflation, steep interest rates, geopolitical uncertainties, and fears of a recession.

Despite the challenging economic environment, there are some indications that the housing market is beginning to correct itself. For instance, mortgage rates are showing some signs of easing after reaching 20-year highs in late 2022.

Additionally, home prices, which had experienced a rapid increase in the past couple of years, are starting to come down slowly. However, the decline in prices is making it harder for many homebuyers to find affordable housing.

The National Association of Realtors (NAR) reported that the median sales price for existing homes increased by 2.3% to $366,900 in December 2022 compared to the same month in the previous year. Although this marks the 130th consecutive month of year-over-year price increases, the increase was slower than in November. Meanwhile, month-over-month existing-home sales prices have continued to trend downwards, falling by approximately 11% from their peak of $413,800 in June.

Furthermore, total existing-home sales fell by 1.5% from November to December 2022, marking the eleventh straight month of declining sales and a 34% decrease from the previous year, according to the NAR.

Despite these mixed signals, some experts predict that there may be some reasons for optimism among homebuyers in 2023. Lawrence Yun, chief economist at NAR, suggests that markets in about half of the country are likely to offer potential buyers discounted prices compared to the previous year.

Other experts anticipate an increase in sales activity as home shoppers begin to return in 2023, which could lead to a housing market resurgence in 2024. Nadia Evangelou, senior economist and director of forecasting for the NAR, states that home sales activity may have already hit its lowest point and with mortgage rates stabilizing around 6%, the housing market is expected to recover in 2023 and rebound in 2024.

Will housing market crash?

Will the Housing Market Crash?

Experts predict that the housing market is more likely to experience a correction than a crash. This is partly due to an ongoing inventory problem that is keeping home prices elevated. While there have been double-digit percentage jumps in home prices in recent years, economists believe that there will be essentially no change in home prices nationwide in 2023.

However, there are some areas where homes could see sales and price growth, particularly in locations where home prices have remained affordable in relation to median income. While some markets may see prices continue to increase, others may experience a 5% drop in home prices.

One factor that suggests today’s homeowners are on more secure footing than those who weathered the 2008 financial crisis is that a high number of borrowers have positive equity in their homes. Homeowner equity is currently at the highest level it has been in several decades. Additionally, mortgage products have become less risky due to more regulations and restrictions in the mortgage market, making it stronger, less volatile, and less risky than it was after 2008.

If there were to be a housing market crash, it would typically result in a 20% to 30% drop in home prices and a decline in home sales. However, there has been no significant jump in foreclosure activity. Experts believe that the housing market is more likely to cool than to crash, with a correction being the most probable outcome.

Should I Buy a House in Now?

Purchasing a house can be a wise financial decision, especially when the housing market is not expected to crash in the near future. The low-interest rates, the availability of affordable mortgage loans, and the continuous growth of the economy make it easier for individuals and families to realize their dreams of homeownership. Furthermore, owning a house offers long-term benefits such as financial stability, equity growth, and the ability to customize your living space to your liking. Therefore, if you are in a stable financial position and are looking for a sound investment, now is the time to consider investing in the real estate housing market. Investing in a property can offer long-term stability and potential for growth. It also provides sense of security and pride of ownership.

Recession Indicators and Signs: What predicts Recession?

Many businesses are worried for the next recession because of the rise in inflation rates and negative gross domestic product (GDP) data that upshots as a result. People also experience significant impacts on their daily lives during a recession. The prices of everything shoot up, from groceries, to clothes and even food items. In the course of this article, we will touch on the recession indicators and signs. See how recession affects the economy.

The topic of Recession in today’s world can not be fully explained without touching on the Great Recession. This took place from 2007 to 2009, resulting from the bursting of the US housing bubble and the global financial crisis. It caused a sharp decline in economic activities and lasted several years and eventually spilled into global economies. It was the most severe economic regression in the US after the great depression that happened in the 1930s.

However there was a report, by the Financial Crisis Inquiry Commission That the Great Recession was avoidable. There were several key factors that contributed to the recession that could have been avoided. This is actually being said to say that before a recession occurs, usually more often than not, there are indicators and signs. For recession to be officially declared, there are three criteria’s that are often used by the National Bureau of Economic Research. Though these criteria’s can be interchangeable when it comes to identifying a recession, as long as each one is met to a degree: Depth, Diffusion, Duration.

Recession Indicators and Signs

Most times, recessions are not predictable. If they were, the government would do all that is in their power to prevent them. However there are warning signs of the emergence of a recession with 6 months of economic contraction. Knowledge of these signs can help us prepare adequately for it.

Increase in Unemployment Rate

An economic downturn will make organizations reduce their workforce by laying off workers. When there is a sudden spike in the rate of unemployment in the society, then there is a high probability that a recession is coming. This is because when people start losing their jobs, then it could mean a rise in inflation rate and companies might be closing. Layoffs also means businesses might be losing revenue and have to lay their workers off. Consequently, there will be a drop in personal income and the unemployed workers will have less money to put into the economy. This will later lead to a cycle of declining GDP.

Inverted Yield Curve

The yield curve shows the relationship between the yield for short term bonds and the yield for long term bonds. An inverted yield curve is when the yield for short term bonds is more than that of the long term bond. In clearer terms, it means the interest rate of short term securities becomes more than that of long term securities. This usually happens when there is a fear of recession and people want to invest more in the long term bond because they offer protection for a longer period.

Poor Stock Performance

The stock market is not always a reliable indicator of a recession as it is extremely volatile. The rise and fall of stocks are somewhat common. However if a poor stock performance extends for a longer period of time, this indicates the coming of a recession.

Leading Economic Index (LEI)

The index is structured to provide a broad look into the economy. The LEI looks at factors including unemployment rates and stock market performance. If this shows a decline, then a recession could be on its way.

Manufacturing/Production Slows Down

During an economic downturn, manufacturers will have to slow down their production process. This will happen because of the reduction in demand for their goods. A rise in inflation and less consumer spending usually brings about reduction in demand. When this happens, then it could be an indicating sign of recession.

Consumer Spending Slows Down

There is no economy without the consumer. Consumer demand is related to the gross domestic product(GDP). They are like the backbone of the economy because they put money(that they have earned) back into the economy. But when there is a downturn in the economy, then they start losing faith which can make them start spending less due to stress. They may even be making the same amount of money, but don’t want to spend money on those things they could once afford because they feel broke. Unfortunately, this can be a sign that recession is underway.

In Conclusion

Recession is a normal part of the economic cycle, it is a relatively common event. There are degrees of severity when it comes to recession, it’s not always similar to the Great Recession that occurred in 2008. In order to survive a recession, you should ensure your finances are in order. Reduce the amount of debt you incur and have ample savings. It doesn’t have to be a lot at once, but with consistency you will be able to have a reserve. Also, you should be willing to take up any job in case you lose yours.

The Future Of Mining and What To Expect From This Growing Industry

Mining has since gone past simply exploring the earth for minerals. Now for a mining company to be successful, then there has to be a future for innovation. This means that mining companies must develop new internal processes to maximize resources. They should be looking at ways to go about having a more sustainable path forward. This could include acquiring resources from outside the mining industry. Mining industries are transforming at an exponential rate. This is why we will clearly explain the future of mining and what to expect from this growing industry. See the benefits of investing in mines and mining companies.

For thousands of years now, mining has provided humans with the raw materials needed to build communities and develop the economy. Miners have had to travel deep into the earth in dangerous conditions in order to bring these natural elements to us. Currently, as a result of scarcity projects in some countries, areas that have been earlier considered marginal or too risky are not being explored. As a result of this, more mining companies are exploring investments in these emerging markets. To do this, there is a need to improve performance and operational efficiency and comply with regulatory updates.

Trends in the Mining Industry

It is certain that demand for minerals will grow in the coming years. However there are different trends that will determine which aspects of mining will remain in the future. 

New Technologies

Mining companies will need to venture into frontier areas where extractions have not been economically viable. Companies will have to master new technologies for extraction and processing. Automated processes and digitalization will provide more targeted and efficient mining processes. This could be further enhanced through breakthroughs in technological areas like the in-situ leaching, block caving or bio mining. 

Finance Mining

Model financing and production models will become common as mining companies endeavor to limit risks. In order to spread the risk of new capital-intensive projects, these new financing solutions will continue to develop. Mining companies may also consider developing joint ventures which are similar to those observed in the oil and gas sector. Companies may also consider service agreements. 

Low Carbon Economy

Countries must start working towards decarbonising their energy system by the middle of this century. Failure to do this will cause temperature to rise to the point of causing catastrophic damage to the planet. Since transportation systems and low emission energy are more mineral-intensive, this will provide a great opportunity for the mining sector. Consequently, the mining sector will also have to reduce its own emissions. Therefore companies that use renewable energy to power their operations will be best to sell low carbon minerals.

Mining and Data

As mining companies embrace digitalization and automation in their processes, there will be a need for collections and processing massive databases. A major area of debate will be what data should be shared, processed or made transparent. This way, investors will use the proliferation of the non financial data to access the risks of their mining portfolios. Consumers will also seek to improve on value chain transparency. It will be expedient for companies to work together with other stakeholders. This will help give a clear understanding on the type of data that should be made available. Companies will also be able to understand the right format for disclosing data as this will ensure standardization, usefulness and impact of the data.

Mining Geopolitics

There is a growing resistance to globalization and free trade. This resistance is directly affecting the mining sector and also altering politics. Policy makers are trying to enact local content rules and regulations which require minerals to first be processed before exportation. Trade wars are likely to disrupt the value chain of mining companies and also likely to dampen global commodity demand. Geopolitical maneuvering will create opportunities for domestic projects that are not economically viable without intervention of the government. However, it could also create challenges for companies that have been prospering under a system of relatively free trade.

The Near Future of Mining

In concluding this topic, we leave you with a list of global predictions by BDO GLOBAL

  1. The arms race around rare earths will be quickened, as growing geopolitical tensions affect global trade and countries battle to lead manufacturing and technology innovation.
  2. Secondary raising will be a concept of the past. The rise of alternative financing solutions, that is responsible for reducing the burden on mining companies’ balance sheets, will grow in popularity and this will hit stock exchanges hard.
  3. Miners will become an open book because of the pressure from investors to demonstrate their social license to operate. Miners will have to make use of blockchain technology to validate their operations.
  4. Artificial intelligence will be commonplace in mining activities, as miners use it to interpret data from smart sensors and machine interconnection, and to improve operational safety and efficiency through unmanned, AI-enabled technologies. As a result of this, mining will be transformed into one of the safest occupations of its kind.

Maximizing Your Investment in the Real Estate Housing Market: Tips and Tricks for Successful Investing

The housing market can be a tricky place to navigate for investors. On one hand, it offers a tremendous opportunity for growth and profit, but on the other hand, it can be a high-risk venture with potential pitfalls that could spell financial ruin. There are many mistakes that can be made that can turn your dreams of getting rich into a nightmare in bankruptcy court. That’s why it’s important to have a solid understanding of the market and a sound investment strategy in place.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at tips and tricks to maximize your investment in the housing market and avoid some of the common mistakes made in real estate investing.

Tips and Tricks for successful Housing Market Investment

1. Selecting the Right Housing Market and Making a Smart Investment Timing Decision

When it comes to real estate investment, understanding your local market is more important than just following national trends. Timing your investment correctly is also crucial, as buying at the top of the market can result in financial loss. To become successful in real estate investing, it is best to avoid very hot markets, even if other investors may brag about their property appreciation or rising rates.

The real estate market is cyclical, and every market is at a slightly different phase of its housing cycle. Investors should seek markets that are in the expansion phase, where sales and prices are rising, affordability is good, construction is low, and capital investment is increasing. The location of the property within the market is also important, and investors should look for neighborhoods with high population density, developing amenities, and access to basic services such as schools, parks, medical care, public transportation, and shopping malls.

These factors are common in great neighborhoods that have high demand for housing. As long as housing supply meets demand, real estate investors should not miss the opportunity to invest since home prices remain affordable. By being selective and knowledgeable about housing market and timing your investments wisely, you can increase your chances of success in real estate investing.

2. Smartly purchase Cheap Properties

Housing investment is similar to investing in dividend-paying stocks, where the return on investment largely depends on the purchase price. However, it is crucial to evaluate the return on investment before making a decision. Simply purchasing a low-priced property in a dangerous neighborhood may not yield high returns. Therefore, instead of fixating on buying a house, it is advisable to consider buying land or investing in off-plan properties. This approach can help in obtaining cheaper deals while saving money and achieving higher profits over time.

sold sign

3. Buy from hidden markets

One of the most effective ways to get a great deal in the housing market is to tap into the hidden market. This means looking for properties that are not listed for sale, but are instead being sold by distressed sellers. Distressed sellers are people who need to sell their property quickly, often because of financial difficulties, divorce, or other personal issues. By buying from a distressed seller, you can often get a property at a price well below fair market value.

The key to finding these hidden market opportunities is to keep your eyes open and your ears to the ground. Look for homes with distressed sellers who haven’t put them on the market yet. This might include properties that are in pre-foreclosure, or that are owned by someone who needs to sell quickly but hasn’t listed the property for sale. You can also reach out to local real estate agents or other investors to see if they know of any hidden market opportunities in your area.

When buying from a distressed seller, it’s important to do your due diligence and make sure that the property is worth the price you’re paying. You should also be prepared for a quick sale, as distressed sellers often need to close the deal as soon as possible. If you’re able to navigate the hidden market successfully, you can find some of the best deals in real estate and build a strong investment portfolio.

house for sale

4. Understand your chosen market

To avoid real estate investment pitfalls, understanding the market is essential. Proper market research will help you evaluate the value of investment properties, know the typical house price per square foot, and determine the rent you could charge. It’s also important to renovate properties in ways that appeal to the target buyer. For instance, don’t reduce the number of bedrooms in a family-friendly community, or shrink the master bath to install a hot tub if there’s little demand. Don’t invest in things people don’t want. If you put a lot of effort into understanding the local housing market, you can increase your chances of success in real estate investing.

It’s important to consider inflation, as the value of money fluctuates. Inflation reduces the value of money over time. As a result, what costs $100 today might not be worth the same in the future. By taking inflation into account, you can get a better understanding of the market and make informed investment decisions. Proper understanding of the market will save you a lot of trouble and improve your chances of success in real estate investing.

5. Optimize the Value of Property

To maximize profit on an investment property, look for ways to increase its value. For instance, renting out a small area to a bank for an ATM, or leasing space in the lobby for a small business, could add to your cash flow. In an apartment complex, adding value-added services such as trash pick-up or a concierge could make the property more attractive and allow you to charge higher rent.

Another option for adding value is to turn a flipped house into a turnkey rental property. Rather than selling the renovated property to a buyer, fill it with a tenant and then start looking for potential buyers. This way, you can attract new investors who want to start investing in real estate without any stress.

By taking steps to maximize the value of an investment property, you can increase its appeal to potential buyers and tenants, while also boosting your overall return on investment. It is important to consider the additional costs involved in value-added services and whether they can offset or exceed the additional income generated.

6. Avoid Over-Renovating and Focus on “Best in Class” Improvements

When investing in real estate, it is a common mistake to over-renovate a property and try to make it the best in the area. For instance, transforming a working-class home into a luxury residence in a neighborhood that doesn’t match the luxury standard can lead to losses. Therefore, focus on “best in class” improvements, rather than going overboard with extravagance.

Begin by fixing all broken or damaged items, then make small changes that don’t cost a lot, but which stand out. For example, adding two-tone paint, more convenient soap dispensers, or trash cans can be beneficial. Skip expensive items such as Corian or granite countertops, top-of-the-line appliances, or costly decor.

Over-building a home or commercial building is wasteful and won’t increase the property’s value. Instead, it’s essential to make sensible decisions that will increase the property’s overall value and appeal to buyers and tenants. By following these simple tips, you can improve the property’s aesthetics and functionality, while also increasing its market value.

7. Consider Non-Traditional Housing Market Investments: Diversify Your Portfolio for Financial Success

Diversifying your housing investments can increase your chances of financial success. Consider investing in non-traditional properties like office buildings, storage units, warehouses, or industrial spaces to generate rental income. For office and industrial properties, you can reduce expenses by using a triple-net lease, in which the tenant covers insurance, property taxes, and maintenance costs. This will lead to steady cash flow without the need for extra expenses.

Investing in non-traditional housing assets can offer a unique opportunity to add variety to your real estate portfolio while minimizing the risk associated with concentrating solely on one type of property. For example, a diversified portfolio may include a mix of residential and commercial properties, which will provide multiple income streams from various sources.

As with any investment, it’s essential to do your research and consult with experts to assess the risks and benefits associated with non-traditional real estate investments. By expanding your portfolio with diverse real estate investments, you can mitigate risk and generate steady income over the long term.

By following the tips and tricks outlined in this article, you can maximize your investment and increase your chances of success. Remember to do your research, assess the market conditions, and diversify your portfolio to minimize risk. Additionally, work with professionals such as real estate agents, financial advisors, and property managers to help you make informed decisions and navigate any challenges that may arise. With the right approach and mindset, investing in the housing market can be a valuable long-term investment opportunity.

The Future of Outdoor Drinking: What to Expect from Restaurants With Outdoor Drinking

As the world continues to grapple with the COVID-19 pandemic, the restaurant industry has been forced to adapt and change in order to survive. One of the most significant changes we’ve seen is the growth of outdoor dining and drinking. As more and more people seek out ways to socialize while remaining safe, restaurants with outdoor drinking options have become a popular choice. In this article, we’ll take a look at the future of outdoor drinking and what you can expect from restaurants with outdoor drinking.

Increased Emphasis on Outdoor Drinking Spaces

Restaurant with Outdoor drinking

As restaurants adapt to the new normal, they’re placing a greater emphasis on outdoor spaces. This means creating more comfortable and inviting outdoor areas for patrons to enjoy. Restaurants are adding features such as comfortable seating, outdoor heaters, and even canopies or tents to protect guests from the elements. Additionally, many restaurants are investing in landscaping and décor to create a more inviting atmosphere. The goal is to create an environment that’s both comfortable and aesthetically pleasing.

Expanded Menu Options in Restaurants

Expanded menu options


Restaurants with outdoor drinking options are also expanding their menu options. In many cases, this means creating a separate menu specifically for outdoor dining and drinking. These menus often include lighter fare, such as sandwiches, salads, and appetizers, as well as a range of cocktails, beer, and wine. The goal is to create a menu that’s well-suited to outdoor dining and drinking, and that offers a range of options to suit a variety of tastes.

Creative Cocktails and Beverages for Outdoor Drinking

Creative outdoor drinking


With the expansion of outdoor drinking options, we’re also seeing a rise in creative cocktails and beverages. Many restaurants are creating unique and innovative drinks that are well-suited to outdoor dining and drinking. For example, some restaurants are offering “frosé” (frozen rosé) or “poptails” (cocktails with popsicles). These types of drinks are not only delicious, but they’re also Instagram-worthy, making them a great way for restaurants to stand out in a crowded market.

Technology-Driven Solutions in Restaurants

Personalized experience in restaurants with outdoor drinking


Restaurants are also turning to technology to help them adapt to the new normal. This includes things like online ordering, digital menus, and contactless payment options. By using technology, restaurants can offer a safer and more convenient experience for their guests. Additionally, some restaurants are using technology to monitor the number of guests in their outdoor spaces, to ensure that they’re not overcrowded.

More Flexibility for Guests in Restaurants

Online menu options for restaurants with outdoor drinking

Becoming more flexible in their policies is a good strategy restaurants have adopted. For example, many restaurants are offering more lenient cancellation policies, to give guests greater peace of mind. Additionally, restaurants are often willing to work with guests to create custom menus or beverage options and accommodate their specific needs. The goal is to create a more personalized and accommodating experience for guests.

A Greater Emphasis on Safety in Restaurants with Outdoor Drinking

Safe outdoor drinking environment


Finally, we’re seeing a greater emphasis on safety in restaurants with outdoor drinking options. Restaurants are implementing a range of safety measures, such as frequent cleaning and disinfection. Also, they are providing hand sanitizer and masks to guests. Additionally, many restaurants are limiting the number of guests in their outdoor spaces. This is done to ensure that there’s adequate space for social distancing.

Overall, the future of outdoor drinking looks bright. As restaurants adapt to the changing times, we’re seeing a greater emphasis on outdoor spaces, expanded menu options, and creative cocktails and beverages. There is also the implementation technology-driven solutions, more flexibility for guests, and increased safety measures. Whether you’re looking for a casual place to grab a drink, a quick lunch break or dinner with family and friends. Restaurants with outdoor drinking are here to stay and serve you better than they ever have.