[The following is a featured post discussing the idea of investing a small amount of money in order to pay off debt. This is something that I have done with mixed results so far.]
In days gone by, it was commonly believed that the specter of debt could only be overcome by reducing expenditure and committing to a frugal lifestyle. While this remains solid advice, however, it is not necessarily the most productive method in an age of technological advancement and advanced money making opportunities.
Although it may sound a little unorthodox, the prevailing contemporary theory requires individuals to invest capital in pursuit of greater returns. This money can then be used to repay debts more effectively, without forcing households to struggle against a back-drop of austerity and long-term uncertainty.
How to Speculate and Accumulate: 3 Ways to Spend More and Generate Additional Income
With this in mind, how exactly can modern-day speculation inspire you to boost your income and stave off debt? Consider the following:
Embrace the Financial Markets
While access to the open financial markets was once exclusive to professional traders and large commercial institutions, the development of sophisticated online trading platforms and educational resources have removed many of the pre-existing barriers to entry. As a result of this, numerous markets are now within reach of independent traders with minimal dollars.
This has exposed everyday citizens to a diverse range of financial products and derivatives, from trading forex and currencies to exchanging carbon credits. While you will needs patience and knowledge to succeed, there is ample opportunity to build wealth through this method.
Understand how to Create a Stream of Passive Income
Passive income is a term used to describe capital can be generated without the completion of a direct action or the sale of a commodity. It allows you to speculate and accrue wealth that is entirely separate to what you earn through traditional working methods, which in turn can be used to clear a significant amount of your total debt.
There are several options of this type to suit alternative risk appetites, with the latest high yield checking accounts providing a low-risk avenue for growth and real estate investments available to those with more income and a desire to achieve greater returns.
Do not Underestimate the Rewards of Hard-work
While it may sound old-fashioned and overly simplistic, hard work remains one of the most effective methods of boosting your income and combating personal debt. This does not necessarily mean that you have to work for 12 hours a day in a number of physically demanding jobs, however, as those of you with a viable industry skill can use it to work from home and freelance in your spare time.
Website developers, content writers and software developers remain in constant demand in the current economy, and this has created opportunity for proactive individuals to market themselves as an independent contractor.
As a general rule, speculating to accumulate does require a certain degree of disposable income in order to generate any sort of return. This can be minimal, however, so as long as you are willing to commit this sum in the pursuit of reducing your debt then you can achieve outstanding results over time.
I suppose this makes sense — when the return on the investment is higher than the interest rate you’re paying on the debt, then of course it makes sense to go for the investment. That said, it’s important to take into account tax treatment, any applicable fees, as well as risk. A lot of the risks aren’t immediately apparent — e.g. some debts can come due immediately under special circumstances. Anyhow, this is some nice outside-the-box thinking. Good post.
It’s so true that the barriers to entry have nearly completely collapsed compared to 20 years ago. It is amazing how easy it is to setup an investment account. This is great for all of us that take the time to learn about investing and how it can benefit us for the long run.