Credit Card
What is a Credit Card Utilization? Why Cardholders Should Care About It
Credit cards can be overwhelming for new cardholders due to the financial lingo and terms involved. But it’s important to approach credit card usage with awareness. Resist the temptation to mindlessly swipe the shiny plastic card, even if your monthly paycheck provides a sense of security. Knowing your credit limit doesn’t mean you can freely…
20 November 2023
Smart Money
5 Ways to Grow Your Baby’s Savings Aside from Putting Them in a Piggy Bank
Welcoming a baby brings immense joy and responsibility. As parents, planning for their future — from medical needs to education expenses — is vital. Besides traditional savings methods, where else can you grow your hard-earned money? Besides piggy banks, there are moneysmart ways for Filipino savers to build long-term wealth. But sadly, 30.2% of household…
9 November 2023
Saving
GoTyme Bank Philippines Peso Savings Account – MoneySmart Review 2023
Saving money requires discipline to achieve your goals. You may be surprised by an unexpected expense or emergency, and it’s tempting to tap into savings during tough times. By developing solid financial habits, you can grow your savings over time. Opening a bank account is more accessible than ever with digital banks. You don’t need…
5 November 2023
Credit Card
Security Bank Next Titanium Mastercard – MoneySmart Review 2023
Most credit cards in the Philippines are categorized as rewards cards, cashback cards, and airmiles credit cards. But Security Bank stands out among other banks with its installment credit card — Next Titanium Mastercard. Existing Security Bank depositors may receive this credit card for free — those with a good credit history and fat savings…
1 November 2023
Lifestyle
Chiropractic Care and Costs in the Philippines: Is It Worth It? Everything You Need to Know
Filipinos have long relied on natural remedies like hilot, acupuncture, and back rubs to ease body pain and soothe sore muscles and joints. However, there is little awareness about chiropractic care in the Philippines. In recent years, the number of chiropractors has grown, making it a potential investment for individuals, from active professionals to seniors…
19 October 2023
Travel
Top 10 Things to Do in Manila During Rainy Season
Are you feeling the blues of the rainy season? It’s definitely not a great time for outdoor activities like going to beaches, playing sports, or traveling out of town, but there are still plenty of things to enjoy in the city. While it may be a downer for some who had grand plans for the…
5 October 2023
Property
8 Signs You Are Financially Ready to Buy a Home
Are you tired of renting a place and dreaming of owning a home? Whether it’s a house or a condominium unit, owning a property is a big decision that requires careful planning. Sure, you may have seen FOMO-induced advertisements of RFO (ready for occupancy) deals and pre-selling condos with low monthly payments, but have you…
3 October 2023
Borrow Money
Gadget Loans in the Philippines: Should You Get One?
Are you considering a new laptop for work or school? Reality check — gadgets have become essential to our daily lives. However, buying new devices can be a significant financial burden to some. This is where gadget loans come in as a potential solution. Unsurprisingly, the number of downloads of online lending apps in the…
1 October 2023
Investing
How to Decide Which Investment Brokerage in the Philippines Is Best For You
Are you ready to take control of your financial future? Investing in the stock market is a great way to grow your wealth, and there are a handful of choices. So, how would you know which investment brokerage to choose? But before that, let’s get some facts about investments in the Philippines. In 2022, online…
29 September 2023
Smart Money
The Best Debit Cards in the Philippines: Compare Features, Fees, and Perks
Shopee, Spotify, and Netflix are shaping how we pay for services, as you can do it online with GCash, Maya, or GrabPay. But while cash is still king in wet and flea markets, having a debit card for online shopping and in-store purchases is still convenient for those who prefer cashless transactions. In 2022, 126…
25 September 2023
Saving
5 Money Saving Tips Before the Baby Arrives: Are You Financially Ready?
Congratulations on your upcoming bundle of joy. With all the excitement and anticipation, we hope you have taken the time to ensure that you are financially ready for the baby’s arrival. On average, the cost of giving birth in the Philippines ranges from ₱25,000 to ₱60,000 for normal delivery in a hospital. That doesn’t include…
9 September 2023
Borrow Money
Atome Buy Now Pay Later App in Philippines: Is It Legit?
Online shopping is booming in the Philippines as more Filipinos flock to e-commerce for a wide range of products and services. As of March 2023, there are 74.91 million monthly online shoppers, most of whom shop for electronics, personal care, and household goods. With this trend, new payment alternatives such as Atome have emerged. Atome…
25 August 2023
Lifestyle
What to Include in an Emergency Kit This Typhoon Season in the Philippines
The Philippines is located in a region where typhoons are frequent and intense. With the rainy season that starts in June and lasts until November, it’s crucial to have an emergency kit that is well-stocked and ready in case of calamities. While heatwaves are unlikely to happen this time, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical…
22 August 2023
Credit Card
ZALORA Credit Card: Earn Rewards and Cashback When You Shop Online
Are you looking for an easy way to shop on ZALORA and save simultaneously? Look no further than the RCBC co-branded credit card, ZALORA Mastercard. This rewards card offers multiple benefits to make shopping more enjoyable than ever: great deals and discounts, free shipping, contactless payments, and much more. Whether you’re a family of savers…
9 August 2023
Borrow Money
Good Debt vs Bad Debt: Understanding These Principles to Stay on Top of Your Finances
Debt. We know it’s not exactly a thrilling topic, but the lack of knowledge is a recipe for disaster. It’s essential to understand the difference between good debt and bad debt to take control of your finances. In fact, 70% of Filipinos are stressed because of debt. But of course, we’re not here to bore…
29 July 2023
Shopping
GrabPay Review: Your E-Wallet on the Go
Mobile wallets are becoming a staple in our lives. They have made life more convenient, from buying groceries online to settling bills with just a few taps. With a few notable mobile wallet options available, you want to ensure you’re in the know with the latest ones. Notably, GrabPay Philippines offers beyond just a convenient…
12 July 2023
Property
What Is Pasalo or Assume Balance and Why Need to be Cautious About It
Pasalo or assume balance is a term that has become popularized among those seeking to transfer ownership of cars, homes, and other properties through online platforms, especially in the Philippines. But with this newfound popularity comes cautionary tales of fraudulent schemes and scams that have left many unsuspecting individuals in financial ruin. To help you…
12 July 2023
Borrow Money
Home Equity Loan in The Philippines: How to Use It to Your Advantage?
Are you feeling the sting of the 8.7% inflation rate in the Philippines? If so, you might need help to fund big-ticket items or long-term goals you’ve been dreaming of. Enter home equity loan. This financing option allows homeowners to borrow their property’s market value. With this type of loan, you can fund medical bills,…
28 June 2023
Saving
10 Best Savings Accounts with Free Life Insurance in the Philippines – MoneySmart Review 2023
Saving money requires self-control, focus, and commitment. Whether you’re a student, young professional, or parent, planning your finances is like walking on a tightrope. But life will also surprise you with unexpected events, whether a job loss, medical emergency, or accident. It’s just a matter of when. Nothing beats being prepared for these situations. What…
7 June 2023
Shopping
GCash Alternatives Worth Exploring for Cashless Transactions
Are you one of the many Filipinos who rely on GCash for your cashless transactions? You may have seen the recent news about unauthorized transactions and hacking issues, causing alarm and frustration among users. According to a recent statement by GCash, all affected e-wallets have been adjusted as of 4:00 pm on May 9th. However,…
13 May 2023
Lifestyle
26 Mother’s Day Gift Ideas for Supermoms (2023)
It’s that time of the year again to celebrate our beloved mommies. If you’re looking for the perfect gift to make your supermom feel extra special this Mother’s Day, you’ve come to the right place. We know how hard it is to think of great ideas, so we put together a comprehensive guide with gifts…
10 May 2023
Borrow Money
Can Debt Consolidation Help In Managing Debts?
Debt can overwhelm struggling consumers, whether with piled-up bills or personal loans. According to Banko Sentral ng Pilipinas, consumer debt is surging to 30%, particularly with credit card loans. One thing’s for sure — anyone into multiple debts would like to get out of them sooner. But can debt consolidation provide another avenue for relief?…
27 April 2023
Investing
Earned Income vs Passive Income: The Power of Diversification
Building wealth and ensuring financial security for the future is everyone’s wish list. If money grows on trees, how easy would it be to pluck bills without working? But that’s not the case, and that’s why adding a new layer of understanding on earned and passive income is a moneysmart way to get started. Both…
19 April 2023
Borrow Money
Buy Now Pay Later Philippines: Atome, Billease, and HomeCredit – Which is Better?
Are you looking for ways to buy an item via installments without a credit card? Well, Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) services are your answer. BNPL provides customers with short-term funding and zero to low interest payments that prioritize flexibility and convenience. Atome, Billease, and HomeCredit are three of the most popular BNPL service providers…
10 April 2023
Property
PAG-IBIG vs Bank Loan – Which Is Better? 4 Things to Know Before You Commit
Planning to purchase your ultimate dream home? Choosing the right housing loan could be a dilemma as financing is complicated and confusing to some. But it shouldn’t be if you research and compare interest rates and offers. You could also take the in-house financing option, but the interest rates are higher. Another option is to…
5 April 2023