It pays to get the lowest price, even after you’d bought something. Shopping around is key to getting a decent price. You can do this by using comparison sites such as PriceSpy or Idealo. Now, you’d think the next step would be to buy the items at the cheapest shop. But actually it can be […]
The post Where to price match and save cash appeared first on Be Clever With Your Cash.
Choosing the right financial partner is vital when navigating debt and personal finance. With numerous lending options, it’s crucial to understand how each company operates and what past customers have experienced. This article provides an in-depth review of Heights Finance, highlighting its services, customer feedback, and how it compares to other debt relief options. Are […]
The post Heights Finance Reviews: What You Need To Know appeared first on CuraDebt.
The workplace has changed a lot. It’s no longer so stiff and strict. It’s more relaxed and enjoyable, and people actually want to be there. But don’t get it wrong—bosses still expect you to follow the rules. Mess up, and you could get fired, even on day one.
Here are 25 things you don’t want to do at work if you want to keep your job.
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1. Inappropriate Jokes on the Boss’ Wife
Never mess with the boss’s wife because it will definitely get you in trouble. Making inappropriate jokes is a sure deal-breaker in the workplace. And you’ll be sent packing in no time.
Show your boss’s wife the same respect you give your boss. Respect and kindness will go a long way in the workplace.
2. Just Can’t Keep Up With the Task
When the task seems too difficult for you to handle and you can’t keep up with the team’s rhythm, the boss won’t have a choice but to let you go. Especially if you don’t know when to ask for help or assistance.
If you can’t keep up, the best thing to do is to learn more about your tasks. Take the time to get used to the new work and the environment you need to immerse in.
3. Giving a Wet-Willy
Acting immature at work may jeopardize people, but it doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll get fired. However, this incident is different because a co-worker gave someone a wet willy and started a massive fight in the office.
If you encounter an immature co-worker, don’t get carried away by your frustration. Be the bigger and mature person and let it go, especially if it’s just a prank.
4. Selling Products and Having Favorites on Buyers
When hustling in life, it’s not unusual to work two to three jobs at the same time. Mixing up these jobs and taking tasks from the other job to the next job’s workplace is a big mistake that can get any person fired.
Lesson here: finish your tasks at work or take it home with you. Don’t use other’s company hours to complete your work.
5. Letting a Kid Do the Job
It is funny when you think about kids doing the job for you. But it turns dangerous in some cases, depending on your profession, which can definitely get you fired.
It’s irresponsible and illogical to let a kid do your work, whether just because you think it’s funny or cool. Children don’t have that sense of responsibility adults are expected to have. Basically, it’s just wrong to let someone else do your job for you, much less a kid.
6. Playing Video Games at Work
When a boss catches you playing video games at work, he probably won’t automatically fire you. He might give you a stern warning not to do it again. But if you keep doing it and keep playing, firing is only logical.
This is why work-life balance is very important. You just need to save all your video games playing during the weekends.
7. Making a Deadly Choice at Work
Whether it’s an accident or you’re just being plain careless, you can get fired if you make a deadly mistake. One example is accidentally poisoning people at a restaurant for serving them contaminated seafood.
That said, whatever your job is, always do it with full regard to other people involved. Be as careful as you can and follow your work’s protocol at all times to be safe. If you’re new, never hesitate to ask about some aspects you don’t know about.
8. Bullying Co-workers to Do His Job for Him
Bullying is a nasty habit and one of the most reasonable causes for firing someone at work. Productivity can only be a success if the team works together, but if someone is disturbing that workplace rhythm, it’s not good for the company.
Bullying is an aggressive and immature behavior you’ll only see in kids. Making rude side comments to your co-workers and spreading lies about that are plainly childish. You or any co-worker should not be behaving that way.
9. Sleeping on the Job and Locking Everyone Out
Dozing at work may not be a grave professional sin, but can be overlooked sometimes. Sleeping at work, locking everyone out, and disrupting operations are different things. And yes, it will get you fired.
If you find yourself partying on Sunday and need to work Monday morning, just call in sick. Don’t force yourself to go to work and end up being a liability instead.
10. Stealing
Stealing in any setup and circumstance is a crime, including at work. Pens and other simple office tools may be overlooked, but cash and products are off-limits. Don’t make extra money by stealing from the company that has been paying your salary in the first place.
For money issues, don’t endanger the job that’s keeping you financially afloat. If you really need some hard cash, ask your boss if an advance is possible. You can also look into institutions that offer loans with minimal interest.
11. Being Late at Work
Getting fired for being late at work depends on the company. Some jobs are fine with employees being late every now and then as long as they send a message. It’s a different thing for time-sensitive jobs, like air traffic controllers and emergency medical services personnel, that will require you to be at work at a particular time.
If you find it hard to come to work on time, even with an alarm clock, try training your biological clock by having a consistent sleep schedule.
12. Just a Bad Worker
Jobs and professionals also have compatibilities. If you’re not compatible with your job, there’s a high chance you won’t do well at work. Ultimately, you will get fired for being a bad worker.
Once you’re new to the job position, make sure to do your best to adapt to it. If you can’t, finding a new job is not too late.
13. Clearly Doesn’t Want to Work Anyway
When people don’t want to work, it’s evident in their vibes and the way they move. But they often don’t let the boss see this attitude. If this is you, you’re not alone. A lot of people are actually stuck in jobs they’re unhappy with.
But it is a sure way to get fired if you do your work carelessly. You will have bad days and good days at work, and that’s normal. If you don’t want to work on a particular day, ask for a day off if you can’t, try to power through.
14. Mentally Unfit for Work
When working, one needs to be mentally stable to be effective and productive. Whether it’s a schizophrenic episode or an extreme mental breakdown, those moments are not meant for work. When you force yourself to clock in despite these conditions, you will surely get fired.
You must be mentally fit to do your tasks to remain valuable to the company. Work-life balance is key to staying mentally healthy. You must manage stress effectively by taking breaks and staying active when necessary. Meditation also goes a long way to clear your mind from unneeded anxieties and feel refreshed and ready for a day at work.
15. Under the Influence of Drugs Before Work
Drugs can get anyone in trouble in general, and that includes work. People under the influence act so weirdly that they’re not fit to work. It’s a sure way to get canned.
More than your health, these substances can affect your performance at work. They will impair your memory and decision-making skills, which are vital when working. Your concentration and ability to focus will also be affected, which can lead to mistakes at work. If you’re under the influence, stay at home and focus on healing first.
16. Drinking Alcohol While at Work
One of the clear ways to get canned is to drink alcohol while on duty. Some try to hide it and discreetly enjoy some booze at work. Once they get caught, though, they shouldn’t be surprised to get laid off.
If you want to drink alcohol and have a good time, your workplace is the worst place to do it. Wait for the weekend or take a day off.
17. Accessed Confidential Files and Bragged About It
Most companies share confidential information with their trusted employees. Often clarified in contracts, you are responsible for keeping all the company’s data confidential. If not, it is a major grounds for getting laid off.
With power comes great responsibility. Congratulations on getting that access, but keep it to yourself.
18. Devil-May-Care Worker
Any boss wants an employee who cares about the company. If you are a devil-may-care worker who waltzes in late, takes a lot of breaks, and doesn’t really care about work, the boss will definitely fire you and not want you around the next day.
If you’re working for a company, the least you can do is care about the work you’re responsible for. Find a job that interests you and will make you care.
19. Went to Work Drunk Like a Skunk
If the weekend party extended to the early morning of Monday, it would be better to call in sick. Going to work drunk as a skunk is a bad idea. You will end up either getting fired on the spot or the next day when you have a clear mind to understand the gravity of your actions.
Just go home. No one would want to see you giggling, slurring, and stumbling at work anyway, and you would not be productive, either.
20. Leaving the Workplace for a Personal Errand
When you leave your workplace for a personal errand, you’re taking up company time that you will be paid for. Once discovered, your boss will reprimand you or, worse, fire you.
If you want to get a cup of coffee, settle for the one in the staff room. If you have other errands you need to complete, like bills to pay, try paying them through online banking. For grocery runs, you can have them delivered nowadays through shopping apps.
21. Surfing Inappropriate Sites at Work
The concept of NSFW (not safe for work) content has become a trend because many people are getting fired for surfing inappropriate sites at work.
Once it’s labeled as NSFW or you’re checking a website you don’t want your boss to see, leave it for later at home.
22. Making a Scene
The workplace is a professional space for work, not for confronting anyone or starting a screaming match. Don’t make a scene in the office—it can get you laid off. If you’re about to make a scene, take a break to calm yourself. Respect is key in this case.
Taking a break is part of being at work. Aside from lunch or pee breaks, it also serves as a breather. Just ensure your boss knows you’re taking a break and that you return on time. Doing otherwise can get you in trouble.
Whenever you need to go out for a longer time, ask your boss if you can take a day off. It’s better than masquerading it for a long break.
24. Secretly Filming in the Women’s Bathroom
Zveiger/Depositphotos.
One nasty way to get canned is acting like a pervert and filming from under the door of the women’s bathroom. It’s a disgusting habit, not to mention a huge disrespect to women.
If you have this kind of urge, you need help. And if you’re a woman who experienced this at work, talk to your supervisor and report it.
25. Inciting Violence at Work
Violence is not acceptable anywhere, especially at work. Hitting someone will get you canned. It can even get you arrested!
It’s fine to show your emotions, but when you feel like hitting some, take a deep breath and find a peaceful corner to calm yourself down.
The Dark Side of Aging: 10 Things That Will Drive You Crazy as You Grow Older
I recently saw this question online, “What are you starting to dislike more as you get older?” Here are the top-voted responses.
I Tried Living the European Way: 10 Luxuries That Left Me Wondering, ‘Why Don’t Americans Have This?’
The internet sure is a pool of information. I was scrolling the front page of the internet when I saw this question, “Americans, what do Europeans have every day that you see as a luxury?” the top-voted responses are quite interesting, so I had to share these with you.
Because what do they have every day that Americans don’t?
Did You Fall for These 10 Commonly Believed Myths? Science Sets the Record Straight
I recently saw this question online, “What is a popular belief that is scientifically proven wrong?”
Are you thinking of something you know now? Here are the responses that received the most upvotes.
Parenting Confessions: 10 Parents Admit What They Hate Most About Having a Child
I recently scrolled the internet’s front page when I saw this question, “What do you think is the worst part of having a child?” Here are the top-voted responses.
Legal Today, Banned Tomorrow: The Shocking Future of These 11 Items
Are you prepared for a future where something currently legal becomes illegal? This intriguing question has been making rounds on the internet, and the top-voted responses are bound to leave you curious.
Check out the detailed answers to the question, “What currently legal thing do you expect to be illegal in the next 20 years?”
The 10 Biggest Lies Society Has Been Telling You For Years – Stop Believing It Now
Curious to know the common lies that people believe? I came across an interesting question on the internet: “What lie do people need to stop believing?” the responses were eye-opening.
Here are some of the top-voted ones that might surprise you.
11 Quirky Items That Confuse Non-Americans About American Homes
Behold the internet’s treasure trove of knowledge! Amidst my casual scrolling, I stumbled upon an interesting question: “non-Americans, what do you reckon resides within the four walls of every American’s home?”
As I looked into the answers, I found many interesting comments that made me even more curious. And now, I’m excited to share them with you.
14 Innocent Jokes That Somehow Became The Center Of Intense Controversy
The internet is a vast source of information. While scrolling, I came across a question about something that began as a joke but is now taken too seriously.
The top answers to this question are fascinating.
The IQ Test That Should Be Required: 15 Silent Signs of Diminished Intelligence
Have you ever wondered if there are subtle signs of low intelligence? A recent online discussion posed this question, and the responses may surprise you.
Get ready to dive into this thought-provoking topic and challenge your perceptions.
From Boomers to Gen Z: The Childhood Trends That Faded Away
I recently saw this question online, “What was common when you were young but is rare now that you’re older?”
Let’s delve into the top-voted responses, which shed light on these nostalgic elements of the past that hold significance to many.
Source: Reddit
MSN Writer, Radical FIRE
Expertise: Entertainment, Travel, Interior Design, and Personal Improvement Niches
Education: Bachelor of Science in Tourism, Major in Development Tourism Management at Ateneo de Naga University
Experience: Marisa Bolivar is a content writer with 10 years of experience in creating blogs and articles across different industries on the web. She has explored many niches in her years working as a content specialist with her favorite zeroing on entertainment, from books to movies and TV shows. Marisa is also a bookworm, who has a fondness for personal improvement and philosophical authors like Paulo Coelho and Mitch Albom.
Do you love books? Do you have an abundance of books in your home? Are you wondering where to donate books? When the collection of … Read More
If you’re looking for an alternative to traditional banks, the best credit unions could be a good choice for you. Unlike with a bank, at a credit union, you’re a member – which also makes you an “owner”.
As such, credit unions have a reputation for taking care of their customers better, offering solid rates on loans, and not “nickel and dime-ing” their customers with fees.
We break down our favorite credit unions – with a focus on those that are available nationwide. Many credit unions are small, and focus on local customer areas. However, the credit unions below are available nationally, and some even have branches in most major cities.
Note: The savings offers that appear on this site are from companies from which The College Investor receives compensation. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site (including, for example, the order in which they appear). The College Investor does not include all savings companies or all savings offers available in the marketplace.
Our Top Best Credit Unions Picks Of 2024
We evaluate credit unions on their annual percentage rate (the interest you receive), the minimum balance requirements, and the terms and conditions of having the account. We also look at their availability, products and services, and more.
1. First Tech Federal Credit Union
First Tech Rewards Checking® is a solid option for high-interest checking. The account has no minimum balance requirements, no monthly maintenance fees, and a network of 30,000 CO-OP fee-free ATMs.
First Tech Federal Credit Union also has a unique rewards program where you can earn upwards of $60 per month based on account activity. You can earn these rewards through additional cash back on credit card purchases, cash back on minimum loan payments, and more.
Plus, you can earn 4.00% APY on balances up to $15,000 (then 0.10% APY after that)*. To earn the high APY, you must do the following:
- 20 transactions with a minimum monthly spend of $500
- Monthly direct deposit of at least $1,000
- Be enrolled in eStatements
They also offer competitive options for student loans and other banking products!
Read our full First Tech Credit Union review here.
2. Navy Federal Credit Union
Navy Federal Credit Union is a popular choice for service-members and DOD employees – and for good reason! They offer everything that any major bank offers, but with lower fees than you’d find elsewhere. Plus, they have a nationwide footprint of locations – with branches around most DOD facilities.
Navy Federal offers free checking options, loans, student loan refinancing (see our Navy Federal student loans review), and even business products like business checking and business savings.
If you’re eligible to join Navy Federal, it can be well worth it. That’s why we consider them one of the best credit unions.
3. Consumers Credit Union
Consumers Credit Union is our top pick because of their awesome Rewards Checking Account that offers an amazing interest rate on your checking account.
Right now, you can earn up to 5.00% APY on your checking account for the first $10,000. The account also has no fees, no minimum balances, and reimburses your ATM fees.
Consumers Credit Union also has a solid savings account, and offers a variety of competitive loan products.
Read our full Consumers Credit Union review here.
4. American First Credit Union
If you’re looking for a solid credit union to park your savings, American First may be the right choice for you. In partnership with SaveBetter, they are opening up their money market account and CD accounts to savers nationwide.
Right now, you can earn 4.45% APY on your savings in their money market account.
They also have a top notch 12-month CD that can earn you 4.00% APY.
Read our full American First Credit Union review here.
5. Sky One Federal Credit Union
Sky One Federal Credit Union is a nationwide credit union that has been around for over 70 years. They are branching into offering more competitive online products, and their money market account is one of the highest rates you can earn right now.
Right now, you can earn 4.60% APY on your savings in their money market account. It only takes a $1 minimum deposit to get started, and they don’t charge any monthly maintenance fees.
6. PenFed
PenFed (which stands for Pentagon Federal Credit Union) is another nationwide credit union that originally was focused on military members and their families. However, today you don’t have to be in the military to join – and there are multiple ways you can do it.
PenFed offers the full range of products and services – checking, savings, auto loans, mortgages, and PenFed even has student loan refinancing.
PenFed checking also pays interest, has access to a large network of ATMs, and PenFed has physical branches in many locations. The only drawback to PenFed banking is that they do have minimums and fees. For example, their Access America checking requires $500 minimum daily balance, or a monthly direct deposit of at least $500.
Read our full PenFed Checking and Saving review here.
7. Alliant
Alliant is another well known nation-wide digital credit union – with full service offerings of checking, savings, loans, and more. They even offer some of the best 12 month CD rates available.
They offer a solid High Rate checking account – which earns interest and has no monthly fees or monthly account minimums. They also offer up to $20/mo in ATM rebates, mobile deposit, and more.
Alliant also offers loan products, including credit cards, auto loans, mortgages, and even personal loans.
8. Connexus
Connexus is one of the largest credit unions in the United States, with over 300,000 members across all 50 states. Like others on this list, they offer high yield checking accounts, savings accounts, and loan products. They are also a solid digital credit union.
They have two levels of checking account – one that is completely free but it doesn’t earn interest. Their Xtraodinary Account also doesn’t have any monthly fees, but does have some basic requirements (such as $400 in debit card spending or 15 monthly purchase) to earn interest.
Their savings account isn’t as competitive as the top high yield savings accounts right now.
They also offer a variety of loan products, such as auto, mortgage, and more.
Best Credit Union And Savings Accounts
These aren’t all necessarily credit union products, but if you want the highest yield savings accounts right now, check this out:
Credit Union FAQs
Here are some common credit union questions and answers.
What is the difference between a bank and a credit union?
A credit union is basically a member-owned bank. Banks have specific owners (shareholders or individuals) and customers, while the customers of a credit union are also the owners of the credit union. As such, credit unions have earned a reputation for superior customer service, more flexibility for small businesses, and in some cases, higher interest paid on accounts.
Are credit unions insured?
Yes! Credit unions are insured by the National Credit Union Association (NCUA). This is similar to banks, who are insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation.
Are credit unions worth it?
They can be – it all depends on what you’re looking for in a financial product. Credit unions typically offer fee-free checking products, low-interest auto loans, mortgages, and more.
What is a credit union membership?
Credit union customers are members – and that membership is restricted to the rules of the credit union. Many credit unions were designed to serve certain groups of individuals (such as the military, teachers, people in a local area). However, some credit unions have broadened their membership opportunities.
How to join a credit union?
Each credit union sets its own membership rules. Some credit unions require you to live in a certain geographic area, work for a certain employer (or type of employer), or be a family member of someone who meets that criteria. Other credit unions allow you to become a member simply by opening an account at their credit union.
Do credit unions have ATMs?
Yes. Most credit unions not only have their own ATMs, but they are part of a network of ATMs called CO-OP. This gives members access to a large nationwide network of ATMs.
Do credit unions pay more interest than banks?
Sometimes. Credit unions are known to pay higher interest than banks on checking accounts. However, the amount of interest is typically limited to lower dollar amounts of deposits (such as on balances below $10,000). When it comes to savings accounts, credit unions can’t really compete with the best online savings accounts available today.
Final Thoughts
A credit union is very similar to a bank, so you really shouldn’t think of banks and credit unions as different. What you should be looking for is an account that matches your needs. Whether you need a checking account, savings account, auto loan, mortgage, or other type of financial product, you should look to see if credit unions can meet your needs, while also not charging you excessive fees or having tough requirements to meet.
And if you’re looking for a credit union for your business accounts, check out our guide to the best credit unions for small business.
Methodology
The College Investor is dedicated to helping you make informed decisions around complex financial topics like finding the nationwide credit union. We do this by providing unbiased reviews of the top banks and credit unions for our readers, and then we aggregate those choices into this list.
We have picked credit unions based on our opinions of how easy they are to use and sign up at, their costs and fees, any interest rates and bonuses provided, and a variety of other factors. We believe that our list accurately reflects the best nationwide credit unions in the marketplace for consumers.
First Tech Federal Credit Union
* As Of August 1, 2024
The post Best Credit Unions Nationwide Of 2024 appeared first on The College Investor.
What’s the point of having financial goals if you’re struggling to reach them? That’s a good question, and if you’re finding yourself asking it, chances … Read More
It’s been a while since I’ve done a reader case, so here goes! Who do we have in our mail bag this week? Hi FireCracker! I’ve been reading your blog for about a year. Just finished reading your book which I love. A lot of it resonates with me as my parents immigrated to the US from Vietnam. My father was lucky to get education in the US during the 70s but then was put into re-education camp when he came back to Vietnam at the end of the war. My parents then escaped Vietnam while my mom was pregnant with me, […]
The post Reader Case: How Do I Get My Money Out in Retirement? appeared first on Millennial Revolution.
Even before taking office, a president-elect’s actions signal the direction of the incoming administration and its impact on the economy. Donald Trump’s cabinet nominees have created a firestorm in Congress and a fire sale in the stock market.
In addition, Trump has demanded that those controversial appointees take office without being confirmed by the Senate. That has triggered outrage by defenders of the Constitution’s principle of separation of powers.
Markets Decline
All three major stock markets dropped last week. The Dow Jones Industrial Average tumbled 305 points or .7 percent. The S&P 500 dropped 1.3 percent and the Nasdaq composite average fell 2.2 percent.
In short, the markets have done a U-turn after a brief post-election “Trump bump.” Many businesses and investors assumed Trump would cut taxes, regulations, and government oversight of business. As a result, they felt that would lead to higher profits.
Stock prices for banks, small U. S. companies, and cryptocurrencies benefited the most.
However, the nomination of controversial cabinet appointments has brought the party on Wall Street to an end for now. Those nominees have been criticized for being unqualified or corrupt.
Destroying the Balance of Power
Trump was haunted on the campaign trail by a comment he made about being a dictator on his first day in office. He clarified that he would use dictatorial powers to close the border and promote oil drilling. However, various supporters close to Trump have expanded the dictator idea to include political retribution.
Dictators appoint government officials and change laws at will and without accountability.
Trump tried to change a law by decree in his first administration when he signed an executive order to eliminate the Affordable Care Act (ACA) often referred to as Obamacare. However, the Constitution prohibits a president from overturning a law.
Trump is now trying to appoint his cabinet without the Senate performing its constitutional (Article ll, Section ll, Clause ll) responsibility to “advise and consent.”
Circumventing the Senate
Except in emergencies, presidents submit cabinet nominations to the Senate for review. In almost all cases, those nominations are submitted to a committee, such as Justice for review of a proposed attorney general.
The committee does a background check, examines experience, and conducts a public hearing.
The committee submits a recommendation to the full Senate which then votes on the nomination. A simple majority is required to confirm. With Republicans holding a 53 to 47 advantage – Trump’s nominees would normally breeze through this process.
However, these are not your nominal nominees. As a result, Trump is trying to get around a transparent Senate confirmation.
Recess Appointments
Although the Constitution designates the Senate to review and vote up or down on cabinet appointments – there is a loophole.
Trump is reaching back to the 18th century to find a 21st century solution for installing cabinet members without a public hearing.
When the nation was founded there were no planes, trains or automobiles. If a senator was in his (women could not serve then) home state it might take weeks – even months to get to Washington. As a result, the founders allowed for “recess appointments.” These are presidential appointments made during a Senate recess and are not subject to review.
Trump demanded recess appointments in a November 10 statement on X. It said in part:
“Any Republican Senator seeking the coveted LEADERSHIP position in the United States Senate must agree to Recess Appointments (in the Senate!), without which we will not be able to get people confirmed in a timely manner. Sometimes the votes can take two years or more. This is what they did four years ago, and we cannot let it happen again. . .”
Newly elected Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) fell in line quickly. However, he also seemed to perform some political contortions.
In a Fox News interview Thursday, Thune said, “I think that all options are on the table, including recess appointments.”
However, in the same interview, Thune said, “But obviously, there is a process whereby we get down and scrub all these nominees and figure out whether or not, one, they’re qualified and are they people who are fit to hold these offices.”
That process is called a confirmation hearing. They do not take place while the Senate is in recess.
Test to Checks and Balances
The man Thune defeated 20 years ago to become a senator, former minority leader Tom Daschle has a different view of Trump’s effort to side-step senate scrutiny.
“Trump has promised to be a dictator on day one but has already started before day one,” Daschle told the New York Times. “This is a major test to our system of checks and balances. The Congress must demonstrate its commitment to its constitutional role. And it is critical that it does it now. Failure to do so is an acknowledgment that the president’s promise will become the reality.”
In addition to circumventing the Constitution and Senate, not having confirmation may lead to some cabinet members who are unfit for their jobs.
“None of these candidates, I’m sure, were vetted,” said David Marchick, dean of the Kogod School of Business at American University and co-author of “The Peaceful Transition of Power”. “It’s all just spontaneous decisions by Trump and then announcement by tweet. No process, no interviews, no vetting, just chaos. He had a mandate to deal with the price of eggs. The question is: Did the mandate extend to this craziness?”
Most Troubling Nominees
A president makes thousands of appointments. Cabinet members are the most consequential. With that in mind, let’s review three of the most controversial of Trump’s nominees.
Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.
Perhaps no nomination has jarred the health sector more than that of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. The day after Trump announced Kennedy as his candidate for Secretary of Health and Human Services – pharmaceutical companies saw their stocks take a dive.
Moderna was trading down 2.92 points over the weekend at 36.85. Pfizer was off 1.22 points to 24.80 while Novavax closed up .10 at 7.32 after dipping Friday morning by 2.8 percent.
Kennedy has campaigned against vaccines founding the Children’s Health Defense. That group claims that the childhood vaccine schedule is linked to autism. Once more, he called the Corona vaccine “the deadliest vaccine ever made.”He has also promoted other medical ideas debunked by scientists.
Matt Gaetz
The idea of Matt Gaetz as attorney general has not directly spooked financial markets – but it has created a stir on Capitol Hill.
Gaetz resigned his seat in the house Wednesday “effective immediately” right after Trump decided to tap him to be attorney general. House Speaker Mike Johnson told reporters that Gaetz quit so his seat could be filled sooner. However, there is wide speculation that Gaetz’s quick exit was an effort to prevent an ethics report from being released.
The House Ethics Committee was scheduled to release their probe of misconduct charges against Gaetz on Friday. However, since Gaetz is no longer a member of the House, the report may not be released.
The committee has been investigating several charges against Gaetz – including that he had sex with a minor. Gaetz has always denied the charges. However, John Clune, attorney for a woman who testified before the committee that she had sex with Gaetz, has called on the committee to make their findings public.
Other witnesses and some lawmakers have also called for the release of the committee report. Johnson is not one of them. However, even if the report is not officially released, it is the sort of thing that could get leaked.
Pete Hegseth
A weekend host on the Fox News morning show, “Fox and Friends,” Pete Hegseth served as an officer in the Army National Guard with tours in Afghanistan, Iraq, and Guantanamo Bay. However, he has never served in a senior military position and has no national security experience.
Like Gaetz and Trump – Hegseth has a sexual allegation in his past. A woman alleged that Hegseth assaulted her following a 2017 Republican women’s event in California. No criminal charges were brought, but Hegseth paid his accuser in a settlement a few years later.
Trump considered him twice during his first administration for roles as under secretary in the Department of Defense and Department of Veterans Affairs. He was vetted for those posts by Justin M. Higgins, a former opposition researcher for the Republican National Committee.
Higgins writes that he thinks Hegseth was tapped for the top Pentagon job, because of his devotion to Trump.
“Unfortunately, these Trump-friendly qualities also position him as perhaps one of the least qualified picks for secretary of defense we’ve seen,” writes Higgins.
Hegseth was “unqualified for the more junior positions he was being considered for in 2016, and eight additional years spent at Fox News has not made him any more qualified to run the Department of Defense,” noted Higgins.
The Road Ahead
The list of proposed Trump appointees with sketchy backgrounds and lack of qualifications is growing. That not only undermines the stability of markets – it threatens democracy. The question is whether the Senate will do its constitutional duty or step aside to make way for a dictatorship.
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Real estate investment banking is a niche within the broader investment banking sector, dedicated to raising capital, offering advisory services, and managing transactions related to real estate assets. As the global demand for real estate continues to rise, so does the need for specialized financial expertise to guide investors, developers, and institutions in making informed decisions about capital allocation. This sector’s unique combination of finance, strategy, and asset management makes professionals in the field increasingly indispensable. But what does it take to stand out and secure a lasting career in real estate investment banking?
In this essay, we’ll explore how you can position yourself as a key player in the industry, honing the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive, stay relevant, and become indispensable.
The Growing Importance of Real Estate in the Global Economy
Real estate has always played a significant role in the global economy, but in recent years, its importance has escalated. Urbanization, population growth, the rise of real estate investment trusts (REITs), and the increasing need for infrastructure development have all contributed to real estate becoming a major asset class. According to data from MSCI, real estate is now the third-largest asset class after bonds and equities.
Investment banking in real estate plays a pivotal role in this landscape by providing essential services such as debt and equity financing, mergers and acquisitions advisory, and restructuring services for property portfolios. With real estate projects becoming larger and more complex, the demand for professionals who can navigate both the financial and operational intricacies of these projects has never been greater.
Why Real Estate Investment Banking?
The complexities of real estate transactions demand specialized knowledge in areas like zoning laws, property management, tax implications, and market trends. Real estate investment bankers must have a strong understanding of both financial analysis and real estate markets to offer clients the best advice.
Moreover, the sector requires experts to assess risks, understand regulatory landscapes, and create value in an asset class that, while historically appreciating over time, is not without volatility. The intersection of these skills makes real estate investment bankers crucial to the success of their clients, from real estate developers to institutional investors and high-net-worth individuals.
Key Skills to Make Yourself Indispensable in Real Estate Investment Banking
- Deep Industry Knowledge: Real estate is heavily influenced by local regulations, economic trends, and demographic shifts. To become indispensable, an investment banker must be familiar with the intricacies of these forces and be able to advise clients accordingly. This involves having up-to-date knowledge of zoning laws, property taxes, local market trends, and the broader economic environment.
Additionally, understanding niche sectors like commercial real estate, residential properties, industrial spaces, and hospitality projects enables a banker to provide more tailored advice. - Financial Expertise: Real estate investment bankers must excel in financial modeling, valuation techniques, and capital markets. Building financial models that forecast cash flows, calculate returns, and assess risks requires a robust understanding of finance. In particular, discounted cash flow (DCF) analysis, internal rate of return (IRR) calculations, and net asset value (NAV) assessments are key tools that any real estate investment banker must master.
Moreover, as real estate projects often involve complex debt structures, knowledge of financing options—such as commercial mortgage-backed securities (CMBS), loans, mezzanine financing, credit card debt, mortgaging, and preferred equity—is essential. Speaking on this, Gareth Boyd, Head of Growth at the credit card comparison website Credit Card Compare, says “it’s important for mortgage applicants to consider the impact of their credit card debt not just on loan affordability, but also how much you can borrow.” - Relationship Management Networking and relationship-building are central to success in real estate investment banking. Relationships with property developers, institutional investors, regulatory bodies, and lenders provide the necessary insights and opportunities to stay ahead of competitor intelligence.
Additionally, real estate transactions often involve long timelines and complex negotiations, requiring bankers to maintain strong relationships over extended periods. Fostering trust, demonstrating value, and offering ongoing support ensures that clients return for future deals. - Market Analysis and Forecasting Real estate markets are constantly evolving, impacted by changes in economic conditions, interest rates, and consumer behavior. A banker’s ability to predict these changes and advise clients accordingly can make them invaluable. An indispensable real estate investment banker knows how to interpret economic indicators, such as employment data, inflation rates, and interest rates, and their impact on the property market.
Moreover, the ability to perform comparative market analysis (CMA) and evaluate property values relative to market conditions allows bankers to make informed decisions about the timing of investments. - Adaptability and Continuous Learning The real estate sector is continuously evolving with technological advancements, changing consumer preferences, and shifting regulatory landscapes. To maintain relevance, real estate investment bankers must stay ahead of the curve by embracing new trends such as PropTech, green building initiatives, and sustainable finance. By staying informed about emerging technologies and trends, bankers can position themselves as forward-thinking advisors, which can lead to more lucrative opportunities and long-term client relationships.
- Negotiation and Deal Structuring Negotiation is a critical skill in real estate transactions, and an investment banker’s ability to structure deals that benefit all parties involved is a major factor in becoming indispensable. Real estate deals are complex, often involving multiple stakeholders, including developers, investors, tenants, and lenders. The ability to craft mutually beneficial agreements while protecting the interests of clients sets top-tier investment bankers apart.
An indispensable real estate investment banker will not only negotiate favorable terms but also anticipate potential issues and create contingency plans to mitigate risks. - Regulatory Compliance and Legal Acumen Real estate is one of the most regulated industries, with a web of zoning laws, tax policies, and environmental regulations to navigate. A successful real estate investment banker must have a strong understanding of these regulations and ensure that transactions comply with them.
Additionally, real estate deals often involve complex legal structures, including joint ventures, partnerships, and REITs. Being able to understand and advise on these legal aspects adds another layer of indispensability to a banker’s skill set.
The Role of Technology in Real Estate Investment Banking
Technology is reshaping real estate investment banking by making data more accessible, improving market analysis, and streamlining transactions. PropTech, for example, is transforming the real estate industry by enabling better property management, enhanced tenant experiences, and more efficient transactions. Investment bankers who are well-versed in these technological advancements will have a competitive edge.
Moreover, the use of data analytics and machine learning in real estate valuations and market predictions is becoming increasingly important. By leveraging big data, bankers can offer more accurate forecasts and tailored investment strategies to clients, further solidifying their indispensable role.
How to Build a Lasting Career in Real Estate Investment Banking
- Specialize in a Niche Market Real estate is a broad field, and specializing in a particular area—whether it’s residential, commercial, or industrial—can help you stand out. Specialization allows you to become the go-to expert in a specific market segment, making your skills more valuable to clients who operate in that niche.
- Cultivate a Strong Professional Network Building a robust network of industry contacts is crucial for staying on top of market trends, finding new opportunities, and advancing your career. Regularly attending industry events, joining professional associations, and staying in touch with past clients can help you build a network that will support you throughout your career.
- Commit to Lifelong Learning The real estate sector is dynamic, with new trends, regulations, and technologies constantly emerging. To remain indispensable, you must commit to ongoing education and professional development. This can involve pursuing advanced certifications, attending industry conferences, or enrolling in courses related to finance, law, and real estate.
Conclusion
Real estate investment banking is a challenging yet rewarding field that offers significant opportunities for those who are willing to invest the time and effort into becoming experts. By developing deep industry knowledge, honing financial expertise, building strong relationships, and staying adaptable, you can position yourself as an indispensable player in this niche sector. As the global demand for real estate continues to rise, so too will the need for skilled professionals who can navigate the complexities of the market, making real estate investment bankers critical to the industry’s future.