The U.S. is in a recession — as is the rest of the world. Unforeseen circumstances can rock the markets and the growing clamor for socialism might eventually lead to Venezuela-like inflation. Banks are not entirely safe and even your money can lose value. Changing market forces can wreak havoc on your investments — however, you can stay insulated from them with a few key measures. Learn how you can protect your household from these uncertainties so you can keep your lifestyle.
Don’t Rely Solely on Stocks
Stocks plummeted during the 2008 recession. Even the S&P 500, the index that kept track of the 500 largest companies in the US, lost close to 50 percent of its value. People close to retiring saw their 401Ks lose more than 20 percent of their value — with the nation’s 401Ks and IRAs losing close to $2.4 trillion. 9 million Americans lost their jobs and more than 10 million lost their homes. Stocks can be volatile and experts have already predicted another recession before 2022.
Diversify your investments by allocating some of your money into bonds. While bonds usually earn less than stocks — there is practically no risk, as the government guarantees payment at the given rates. Allocate a portion of your stocks to companies that deal with basic necessities such as food, drinks, and apparently — toilet paper.
Look into Precious Stones and Metals
In 2013, a rotisserie chicken in Caracas sold for 200 Bolivars. Two years later, it would cost 1,400 Bolivars. 5 years later, you would need 15,000,000 Bolivars to buy that same chicken. What happened to Venezuela is a testament to how money can lose its value in just a snap. The same can happen in the US — especially with some politicians proposing to print more money to pay for their proposed Green New Deal.
One way to retain your savings is by investing in gold and precious stones. The two have stable valuations worldwide and their value is not reliant on any specific currency. Gold can easily be acquired as bars or coins. On the other hand, precious stones like diamonds, rubies, and emeralds — are usually sold as part of rings or beautiful luxury necklaces for women. Jewelry is also portable — allowing you to carry vast amounts of wealth if ever you need to leave at a moment’s notice.
Know When to Bail
Just like the rich leaving New York and California, you also need to know when it’s time to bail. Keep in touch with local news and consider moving when taxes get too high or the state refuses to protect your assets. Politics in the US is getting crazy and there have been calls to impose a wealth tax. Unlike an income tax, a wealth tax would tax your net value — including all your assets from years of hard work. While moving to states that won’t tax your income and 401k might be enough — it might be prudent to look into other countries just to keep your options open.
Financial experts are predicting gloom and doom. Their predictions could turn out to be nothing more than speculation — however, a little preparation to insulate your hard-earned savings won’t hurt.