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Money

Credit-card firms prepare for economic downturn risks

Credit card companies prepare for economic downturn; rising delinquencies prompt tighter lending despite continued consumer spending.

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Credit card companies prepare for economic downturn; rising delinquencies prompt tighter lending despite continued consumer spending.

In Short

US credit card companies are preparing for a possible economic downturn by tightening lending and increasing reserves, even as consumer spending remains high.

While the wealthy continue to spend, access to credit is diminishing for lower-income individuals, and caution is growing among banks.

Credit card companies in the US are preparing for a potential economic downturn despite current consumer spending levels. Businesses are increasing reserves and tightening lending as delinquencies rise to pre-pandemic levels.

JPMorgan Chase and Citigroup have augmented their rainy day funds to mitigate expected losses. Retail card issuer Synchrony is applying stricter lending criteria, while U.S. Bancorp is targeting wealthier customers to reduce risk.

Although large lenders are still reporting profits, the effects of Trump’s trade war have yet to reflect in financial results. Recent data shows that Americans are spending and borrowing at a faster pace compared to last year.

Travel and entertainment

However, there are warning signs as consumers begin to cut back on nonessential expenditures such as travel and entertainment. The trend of cardholders making only minimum payments is above pre-pandemic levels.

Despite consumers showing confidence in spending in early April, banks remain cautious. They are redirecting their marketing strategies towards affluent households, recognising that the wealthiest individuals account for a significant proportion of total spending.

Conversely, access to credit is tightening for lower-income individuals, with Synchrony reporting declines in active accounts and purchase volumes. American Express, meanwhile, continues to perform well among high-income clients, with strong consumer spending growth reported.

Unemployment rates among white-collar workers remain low, offering some stability in credit card portfolios for certain issuers.

Ahron Young is an award winning journalist who has covered major news events around the world. Ahron is the Managing Editor and Founder of TICKER NEWS.

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Money

Bitcoin hits record high, driven by optimism and regulations

Bitcoin surges to record $110,524 amid renewed optimism and regulatory clarity, with predictions of reaching $160,000 by 2025.

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Bitcoin surges to record $110,524 amid renewed optimism and regulatory clarity, with predictions of reaching $160,000 by 2025.

In Short:
Bitcoin hit a record high of $110,524, driven by optimism around US cryptocurrency legislation and growing institutional interest. However, experts warn it remains a speculative asset with inherent risks for investors.

Bitcoin has made headlines, hitting a record high of $110,524, surprising many who had written it off after a difficult few months.

Optimism surrounding Bitcoin initially surged following Donald Trump’s election campaign, where he pledged support for cryptocurrencies. However, this optimism faded as Bitcoin’s value plummeted.

The latest surge is attributed to new optimism surrounding cryptocurrency legislation in the United States. Experts view this as a significant milestone, predicting Bitcoin could reach $160,000 by Q4 2025 and potentially $1 million by 2030.

Edward Carroll from MHC Digital Group suggests Bitcoin is becoming less correlated with risk assets, acting more as an independent and reliable investment. Growth in demand alongside a fixed supply is expected to drive prices higher.

Caroline Bowler, CEO of BTC Markets, notes that the recent rise indicates a mature interest in digital assets, supported by institutional investment and clearer regulations. The market cap for Bitcoin has reached $2.17 trillion, with increasing interest from Australian investors seeking compliant ways to engage with cryptocurrencies.

Despite this positive momentum, experts caution that Bitcoin remains a speculative asset, carrying risks for investors.

The cryptocurrency’s rise also reflects a more favourable macroeconomic landscape, partly due to easing US-China trade tensions. As Bitcoin surges, it’s important for potential investors to proceed carefully.

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Money

Governments struggle to tax effectively without harming citizens

Governments’ excessive taxation on citizens risks wealth creation, necessitating strategic wealth management to avoid economic collapse.

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Governments’ excessive taxation on citizens risks wealth creation, necessitating strategic wealth management to avoid economic collapse.

 

In Short:
Dr. Steve Enticott discusses the challenges of government debt and the need for careful tax structuring to protect citizens’ wealth. He emphasises that excessive taxation can harm wealth creation, urging a proactive approach to financial management for sustainable economic growth.

Dr. Steve Enticott explores the issue of government debt and taxation.

He highlights the struggles faced by heavily indebted governments worldwide as they seek to fund ongoing projects.

Taxation is their primary method for extracting financial resources from citizens and businesses.

Enticott points out the importance of effective tax structuring, the strategic deployment of wealth, and risk diversification.

These approaches are vital for protecting individual wealth amidst growing government demands.

The phrase “you can’t get blood from a stone” illustrates the futility of overtaxing already burdened citizens.

Excessive taxation can backfire, leading to reduced incentives for wealth creation, which in turn harms tax revenues.

Governments must be cautious when implementing tax policies as they risk damaging the very sources of income they rely on.

Instead of merely focusing on extracting funds, there should be an emphasis on fostering an environment where wealth can thrive.

Enticott advocates for a proactive approach to financial management, urging individuals to recognise the situation and adapt.

By finding ways to work within the current system, citizens can protect their wealth while still contributing to society.

Money Matters underscores the need for positive action in the face of challenging economic realities.

Government approaches to taxation and debt management require careful consideration to ensure long-term sustainability and growth.

Dr Steven Enticott is a finance professional, speaker, regular columnist, and author of The Man With A Plan.

For more information www.ciatax.com.au

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Money

Experts warn new Australian tax laws could lead to ‘great theft’

Experts Warn New Australian Tax Laws Could Lead to ‘Great Theft’ and Alter Superannuation Perceptions Amid Unrealised Gains Taxation.

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Dr. Steve Enticott critiques Australia’s new tax laws

 

In Short:
Dr. Steve Enticott is concerned about new Australian tax laws taxing unrealised gains, calling it the ‘great theft’ as taxpayers will pay tax on assumed profits without actual transactions. He warns that these changes could significantly impact superannuation and retirement savings for many Australians, urging individuals to stay informed and prepared.

Dr. Steve Enticott has raised concerns regarding recent changes in Australian tax laws.

He refers to these changes as the ‘great theft.’

The new tax structures involve taxing unrealised gains on assets.

This means individuals pay tax on assumed profits without actual transactions taking place.

If an asset’s value doesn’t increase, taxpayers will not receive any refunds for the tax paid.

Dr. Enticott warns this could have a significant impact on a broader segment of the population over time.

He predicts that the perception of superannuation in Australia may shift as these laws take effect.

The discussion highlights the potential long-term consequences of these tax changes.

There is a growing need for individuals to stay informed about evolving tax laws.

Understanding these changes is crucial for managing superannuation effectively.

The implications of taxing unrealised gains could affect retirement savings for many Australians.

Dr. Enticott’s insights urge citizens to carefully consider how tax policies may influence their financial futures.

Awareness and preparedness are essential in navigating these new tax regulations.

As the situation develops, it is important for individuals to seek information and advice.

The evolving landscape of tax laws may reshape financial planning for years to come.

Dr Steven Enticott is a finance professional, speaker, regular columnist, and author of The Man With A Plan.

For more information www.ciatax.com.au

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