As the holiday season approaches, it's easy to get caught up in the festivities and overspend. But have you ever wondered why we tend to spend more during this time of year? From the pressures of tradition and year-end reflection to the temptations of buying for ourselves and justifying overspending, understanding these triggers is the first step toward regaining control of your holiday budget.
Money tips
Are you eager to explore the world but worried about the financial hurdles of holiday travel? As a passionate traveler herself, Ruth understands the challenges of balancing wanderlust with a limited budget. She shares her tried-and-true tips on how to save money while planning for your dream holiday, ensuring that you can embark on unforgettable adventures without breaking the bank.
Money tips
In the vast landscape of personal finance, it's easy to become overwhelmed by the sheer volume of books, blogs, podcasts, seminars, apps, and products available for furthering your money education. In this edition of Ruth’s Two Cents, Ruth explores building a solid foundation for expanding your financial knowledge.
Money tips
Black Friday 2023 isn't too far away, and while we're responsible shoppers here at PocketSmith (obvs), we love a sneaky discount as much as the next person. Here are our top tips on strategically shopping the Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals.
Money tips
In this insightful piece, teenage investor Jordan Turner wades into a hotly debated topic in New Zealand politics: The importance of teaching financial literacy to Kiwi youth. As a high schooler, he adds his two cents to this dialogue.
Money tips
From the serene landscapes of New Zealand to the bustling streets of the United States, the cost of living can vary significantly, impacting everything from groceries to housing. Kiwi local Rachel examines some of her purchases and experiences from her recent travels through the US, and uncovers the surprising distinctions in the financial landscape of each country’s residents with the help of PocketSmith’s Global Household Spending Snapshot.
Money tips
While general expenses continue to rise, Australians are feeling the pinch when it comes to their car-related payments. Gary Ross Hunter, insurance specialist at Finder, shares seven practical tips that can help you save substantial sums on your car insurance bills, potentially putting hundreds of dollars back in your pocket annually.
Money tips
Mic check, mic check. As an ever-increasingly popular form of media, starting a podcast can be alluring in all of its accessible and gratifying glory. But does it make a worthwhile side hustle? As the host of more than one successful podcast, Emma pulls from her own experience to weigh in.
Money tips
For decades, the nebulous world of investing has been steeped in misconceptions, preventing scores of everyday people from achieving their dreams of financial freedom. Just as Sharesies was created to give the masses access to financial markets, this book gives ordinary people a crash course in investing that has too often been reserved for those in the industry or who were lucky enough to grow up in families that taught them financial literacy.
Money tips
Going through a divorce can be an emotional rollercoaster accompanied by difficult legal and financial decisions that need to occur if you want a financially secure future. Although this can seem daunting, creating a financial plan during a divorce can help you secure your assets and prepare for the future.
Money tips
Calling all Aussie investors! From user-friendly interfaces to diverse investment options, the throng of investing apps available to Australians are revolutionizing the way they engage with the stock market, ETFs and more. Here are six digital platforms that Australians can use to take control of their financial futures.
Money tips
Has your bank account got the bustling city blues? If you’ve ever considered heading somewhere that’s a bit more provincial, you might find some monetary advantages that suit you. Take it from current small town gal Ruth, who’s seen the benefits to her financial security.
Money tips
Freelance writing is one of the most popular side hustles out there today. Like any good side hustle, it comes with a fair amount of financial admin. Rachel shares with us her system for managing her freelance finances in PocketSmith, and how it’s given her increased efficiency and insight.
Money tips
In a world where interest rates are soaring, financial decisions become all the more crucial. Whether you're a seasoned investor or just starting to dip your toes into the investment pool, understanding how to prioritize your investments in such an environment is key to maximizing returns and protecting your hard-earned capital.
Money tips
"One student loan closed for good: Check. One deliriously happy debt-free writer: Check." Paying off a student loan is no mean feat, and Rachel's managed to do it early — all while self-employed. Read why she chose to achieve this massive milestone and get rid of her student debt once and for all.
Money tips
A big wedding with all the thrills isn’t for everyone, especially for those who would rather spend that money on someone else. In this edition of Ruth’s Two Cents, Ruth takes a trip down memory lane to her own low-cost nuptials and how she managed the expectations of those around her.
Money tips
Healthy money management isn’t about scrimping and saving all of the time, it’s about aligning your spending with your values — regardless of what the dollar amount is. Sometimes spending a little more adds more value to your life! We’re sharing six convenient purchases that are worth the extra cost.
Money tips
Interest rates are having a moment, persistently remaining high thanks to rising inflation and a number of other factors. What can you even do about that? Take it from practicing accountant Sam Harith, who shares how inflation interacts with interest rates, and accessible ways you can manage the effect it has on your finances.
Money tips
With fluctuating income streams and the absence of traditional job benefits, freelancers and those who are similarly self-employed are uniquely affected by increasing everyday personal and professional expenses. Rachel shares how she's using PocketSmith to adapt and retain financial stability with a continual rise in the cost of living.
Money tips
As you prepare to welcome your first child, it's important to recognize the profound impact your little one will have on your finances. From diapers to education, the financial responsibilities that come with parenthood can be overwhelming. Speaking from experience, Ruth shares how you can ensure a stable foundation for your growing family.
Money tips
The dreaded work commute — an inevitable rite of passage for most workers at least once in their lifetime. Commuting to work can often become a significant financial burden, draining both your budget and energy. However, with a thoughtful approach and a few adjustments to your routine, it's possible to slash commuting expenses while maintaining a comfortable and efficient journey.
Money tips
While the concept of practicing gratitude may seem fluffy, research has shown that gratitude has a positive effect on your mental, emotional and physical wellbeing. Follow Rachel’s journey of over 400 continuous days of gratitude, and how it allowed her money mindset to evolve.
Money tips
The increased cost of everyday expenses is surely having a trickle-down effect — do the kids in your life understand what’s going on? Mother and household money manager Ruth shares how she's encouraging her daughter to interpret the current cost of living, and how that impacts the family's finances as well as her own.
Money tips
Has the dollar amount on your grocery receipts lately have you feeling faint? By adopting a mindful approach and being open to adjusting your habits, you can effectively manage rising food costs without compromising on quality or nutrition. Emma's sharing her best tips for adjusting your shopping mindset.
