Jasmine Birtles
Your money-making expert. Financial journalist, TV and radio personality.
It’s fair to say that we’re living in times of uncertainty. The economy can be unpredictable, with rising living costs and fluctuating markets, plus global events like the pandemic throwing things into disorder. It’s a start reminder of how fragile our financial systems can be. While you can’t control these external factors, you can take steps to protect your own finances. Here are some simple, practical tips to help you safeguard your money during unpredictable times.
During times of uncertainty, investing in stable long-term assets can help you protect your wealth. When we talk about stable assets, traditionally this means things like precious metals, particularly gold. It’s been a reliable store of value for centuries, particularly during periods of inflation or economic downturn. These days, you don’t even need to leave the comfort of your home to invest in physical gold; for instance, you can invest in Preserve Gold from anywhere in the US.
Having a safety net can help you cover unexpected expenses like medical bills, car repairs, or even sudden job loss. Most financial experts recommend having at least three to six months’ worth of living expenses saved somewhere safe, like in a separate account. The goal is to have money set aside that you can tap into quickly if life throws you a curveball. If you can only afford $20 a week, the important thing is to start now. Even small amounts will add up over time.
Just as you should diversify your investments, it’s also good to expand your income streams. This means you have backup options if one source runs dry. Something as simple as picking up a side hustle, like freelancing, consulting, or even renting out a spare room can help put you in a more stable position. Fortunately, there are plenty of platforms and a growing gig economy which means it’s easier than ever to create multiple streams of income, even from home.
Debt can be a major burden, and in times of financial uncertainty, it’s something you need to address. High-interest debts like credit card balances can grow quickly which becomes a danger if they eat away at your income. If possible, focus on paying down these debts first, or look into ways to consolidate them if you have many. It’s also a wise idea to avoid taking on new debt unless absolutely necessary.
When times are tough, it’s important to take another look at your budget and cut unnecessary spending. This doesn’t mean you need to stop enjoying life, but it does mean prioritizing your essential needs. Deal with your non-negotiables first, like housing, food, and transportation, and any luxuries should come after that. Budgeting apps are a great way to track your spending and identify any areas you could cut back to either save some cash or invest it in your future.
Uncertain times can be stressful, and even scary. However, taking steps to protect your finances puts you in good stead to deal with whatever is waiting around the corner. Building an emergency fund, making smart investment choices, managing your debt, finding new ways to earn, and careful spending habits can help you protect your financial well-being, no matter what the economy and life throws at you.
Disclaimer: MoneyMagpie is not a licensed financial advisor and therefore information found here including opinions, commentary, suggestions or strategies are for informational, entertainment or educational purposes only. This should not be considered as financial advice. Anyone thinking of investing should conduct their own due diligence.