Olamide Famuwagun

Debunking Financial Myths: Separating Fact from Fiction

Forget the financial fairy tales! We’re here to slay the dragons of bad money advice.  

The world of personal finance is riddled with myths that can make it hard for you to make good financial choices.  

Believing things like “you need a lot of money to start investing” or “personal loans are bad” can seriously stall your financial progress.

But fear not! I’ll be your guide, dispelling financial fiction and revealing the truths you need to make smart money moves.  

Debunking Financial Myths: Separating Fact from Fiction

5 Common Misconceptions About Loans

1. Myth: You need a perfect credit score to get a loan

Many people think you can only get a loan if you have perfect credit, but this isn’t true. 

Even though having better credit can help you get a loan with better terms, many lenders are still ready to work with people who don’t have perfect credit. 

There are different requirements for different kinds of loans and lenders. Some loans are made for people with bad credit

You should look at all your choices because even if your credit score isn’t great, you might still be able to get a loan.

You should also check out my guide on how to get a loan with no credit

2. Myth: Getting a loan will always hurt your credit score

Many people think that every time they ask for a loan, their credit score goes down a lot. 

Indeed, loan applications often cause a hard search on your credit report and this can lower your score for a short time, but it’s usually not a big deal. 

Over time, a single inquiry will have less of an impact. If you’re looking for the best loan rates, multiple inquiries for the same type of loan in a short time are often counted as a single inquiry for scoring reasons.

3. Myth: Personal loans are always a bad choice

Some people think personal loans are always bad because they think of “high interest rates” and “desperation for money”. 

But, personal loans can be helpful, though, if they are used wisely. They can pay off your high-interest debt, make big purchases, or cover costs out of the blue. 

It’s important to get a loan with good terms and a reasonable interest rate and have a sound plan for paying it back.

4. Myth: You should always choose the loan with the lowest monthly payment

It might seem like the best way to save money is to choose the loan with the lowest monthly payment, but that’s not always the case. 

Longer loan terms are common for loans with smaller monthly payments. This means that you may pay more interest over the life of the loan. 

To find the most cost-effective loan in the long run, you need to look at the total cost, including interest and fees.

5. Myth: You have no choices if you can’t get a loan from a bank

Know this today, it’s not just banks that give out loans!

If you can’t get one from a bank, there are other options you can look into like credit unions, online lenders, or peer-to-peer lending sites

These other options usually offer good rates and terms, especially for people with special needs or financial situations. 

They may also have different approval requirements, making it easier for some people to get a loan even after being turned down by traditional banks.

But, if you’re still stuck on wanting to get a loan from a bank, check out my guide on Secrets to Get Your Bank to Give You a Loan

Speaking of loans, looking for the right loan can be overwhelming if you don’t know where to start but why not take the stress off by getting a loan with Loanspot

Loanspot allows you to compare loan options from a variety of lenders, so you can find the loan with the best interest rates and terms for your situation. 

By using Loanspot, you can save time and money on your next loan.

5 Common Financial Myths 

Let’s look at five common false beliefs about money and finances that keep people from handling their money well:

1. Myth: More money means less stress

Many people believe the false idea that making more money will instantly make their financial life easier. LOL!

On the other hand, having more money often means taking on more tasks and duties. 

When people’s wealth goes up, they sometimes spend more. This is called “lifestyle inflation” and this could mean that even if someone makes more money, they don’t always improve their health or financial situation. 

No matter how much money you make, you need to handle it well and plan your finances well to have financial peace of mind.

2. Myth: Rich people are the only ones who can invest

Few think only rich people can trade in the stock market or other financial instruments. That my friend is not true at all. 

The rise of digital platforms and financial services has made investment easy for everyone. 

Due to the power of compound interest, small purchases made regularly can grow over time and this allows people with limited funds to slowly become wealthy.

3. Myth: You should own a home if you want to be wealthy

People often think that owning a home is a sign of financial success and security. 

On the contrary, buying a home is not always the best idea, even though it can be a good investment and a useful asset. 

Mortgage payments, property taxes, repairs, and insurance are just a few of the costs of owning a home. If you want more freedom, have little money, or live in an area with high housing costs, renting may be a better choice.

4. Myth: Having debt is always bad

Most people think of debt as bad, but not all debt is bad. 

Strange right?

Strategic borrowing can be helpful, like getting a mortgage for a house that will go up in value or student loans to pay for school that will help you get a better job. 

You need to know the difference between good debt (which can help your business grow over time) and bad debt (which doesn’t help your business grow and can cause you to lose money).

For more information on debt, check out my guides:

5 Ways to Get Out of Debt

Outstanding Debt – Everything You Need to Know

5. Myth: I don’t make enough money to save for retirement

Many people think they can’t save for retirement because of how much money they make now, but in the long run, starting small can make a big difference. Even small contributions to a retirement plan can grow thanks to the interest that builds on itself and investment returns. 

This is especially true if the company matches the contributions. No matter how much money you make, you should start saving as soon as possible to take advantage of the time value of money and make sure you will have enough money in the future.

Additional Tips

1. Create and stick to a budget

A budget helps you keep track of your money coming in and going out, so you don’t spend more than you earn. 

Putting money into different groups, like groceries, rent, savings, and fun, can help you get a handle on your money, pay for the things most important to you, and reach your financial goals.

2. Build an Emergency Fund

This is a very important way to protect your finances in case of sudden costs like medical problems, car repairs, or losing your job. 

This fund should be enough to cover your living costs for three to six months and it can help guide against taking out high-interest loans when needed. This will give you peace of mind and financial security.

3. Educate Yourself Financially

Learning new things and keeping current on financial issues can help you make better decisions about your money. 

This means knowing basic financial ideas, keeping up with economic trends, and knowing the different financial goods and services. 

When it comes to personal finance, knowing more gives you the power to make decisions that are best for your position and to help you reach your long-term goals.

P.S. Loanspot Nigeria is perfect for this because we tell you all you need to know about loans and finance. 

Conclusion

Making good money decisions helps you plan your spending, save for emergencies, and keep learning about money. 

These steps can help you become more stable and grow your money. Knowing and doing these things can make a big difference in your financial life.

You’re welcome!

How to Borrow Money from Palmpay, 2024

Ditch the long bank queues and paperwork piles!

If you need cash fast, try PalmPay!

This mobile app cuts through the hassle of traditional loans, offering a quick and convenient way to get the money you need.

This guide will show you exactly how to borrow money from PalmPay in just 6 simple steps.

So buckle up and get ready to get quick cash with PalmPay!

How To Borrow Money From Palmpay, 2024

How to Borrow Money from PalmPay

To borrow money from PalmPay, simply dial *652# on your phone and press the call button, then select “loan” and follow the prompts. Provide your details and review terms. Lastly, confirm your application.

Note: Check PalmPay’s terms, interest rates, and repayment policies before applying

If you want some more loan apps without BVN in Nigeria, then you should check out my guide.

Palmpay Loan Eligibility & Requirements

To borrow a loan from PalmPay, you must meet the following requirements: 

  • You must be a Nigerian citizen living in Nigeria 
  • Be at least 22 years old 
  • Have a functioning phone to download the PalmPay app
  • Your credit score must be good and you must not have any pending loans to repay
  • Have an active bank account with BVN

PalmPay Loan Code

The Palmpay loan USSD code is *652#.

To use the Palmpay loan code to access loans dial *652# on the phone linked to your PalmPay account.

Select “loan,” follow the prompts, and receive funds in your account.

How To Repay Loan on Palmpay

To repay your loan on Palmpay, just open the app, log in, and head to the “Loans” section.

Pick the loan you need to pay.

Choose how you want to pay (use your wallet or do a bank transfer).

Enter the amount and make sure to confirm the transaction. You’ll receive a confirmation, and that’s it!

Learn more: how to borrow money from Opay in 2024

PalmPay Loan Interest Rate

The interest rate on a PalmPay loan is between 15% to 30%.

It varies within that range depending on the loan amount you obtained and your credit score. 

Pros & Cons of PalmPay Loan

Pros:

  • It is fast and convenient
  • Palmpay has flexible repayment options
  • There is clear information on loan amounts, interest rates, and fees upfront.
  • No collateral required

Cons:

  • Compared to traditional loans, Palmpay’s interest rates can be higher.
  • Short repayment terms
  • Missing payments can incur additional charges.
  • Eligibility Restrictions
  • Potential for overborrowing

Interesting read: best loan apps in Nigeria and their interest rates

FAQs

What Happens If You Don’t Pay PalmPay Loan?

There could be serious consequences if you fail to repay your PalmPay loan.

PalmPay may block your phone and report you to the credit bureau, which could negatively impact your credit score and borrowing ability​​.

How Much Can I Borrow From Palmpay for the First Time?

The amount you can borrow from PalmPay as a first-time user is not fixed.

The amount varies based on the borrower’s reputation with the PalmPay platform.

New users can typically borrow a minimum of N10,000​​.

How long does a palmPay loan last?

A PalmPay Loan lasts for 1-12 months. This is dependent on your repayment terms.

Final Thoughts

In summary, to borrow money from PalmPay – Open the app, navigate to the “Loan” section, provide the necessary info, review the terms, and confirm and submit your application.

Receive approval notifications and access funds for various needs.

The Dos and Don’ts of Loan Applications

When you apply for a loan, a strong application is crucial. It is your key to getting the money you need.

A good application shows lenders that you can pay back the loan and this makes them more likely to give you the money. 

It’s important to know what to do and what not to do when applying for a loan. This will help you create a strong application and increase your chances of getting the funds.

This guide will unlock the secrets to crafting a strong loan application.

So, buckle up and get ready to transform your application into a surefire win!

The do's and don'ts of loan applications

The Dos: Setting Yourself Up for Success

Understand your creditworthiness

To be successful when applying for a loan, you need to know how good your credit is. Lenders care about your credit score, which shows how likely you are to pay back your debts. 

To keep or raise your score, make sure your credit report is correct, pay your bills on time, keep an eye on your debt, don’t apply for too much new credit, and keep your old credit accounts open. 

Better loan terms can come from having a higher credit score, which makes it easy and cheaper to borrow money.

However, if you’d like to know about loans for bad credit, check out my guide.

Choose the right loan type

There are various loan types in Nigeria for various needs:

  • Personal Loan: This type of loan is used for personal costs like getting a new computer or paying for a wedding.
  • Business Loan: A business loan helps you start a business or help it grow.
  • A mortgage helps you buy a house.

Each loan has different terms and interest rates, so choose the one that best fits your needs.

This can be a time-consuming process. Luckily, a platform like Loanspot can help simplify the loan application process. 

If you’re interested in exploring loan options through Loanspot, you can get started now.

Gather all necessary documents

Get all the papers you need before you apply. Often, these are:

  • Pay stubs
  • Tax records (to see how much money you’ve made and spent)
  • Plans for your business (if you want to borrow money for it)
  • Having these ready makes the loan process go more quickly and easily.

Be truthful and accurate in your application

If you want a loan, you should always tell the truth. If you lie, you could get in a lot of trouble, like being sued or not getting a loan. 

Giving lenders correct information makes them more likely to trust you, which increases your chances of getting the loan.

Present a strong financial picture

Prove to lenders that you can handle money well by talking about your steady income, savings, and how you handle your bills. 

This may help them believe that you can pay back the cash. Making money isn’t enough to be good with money; you also need to save it and pay off your bills on time. 

The Don’ts: Avoiding Common Mistakes

Don’t apply for more loans than you can afford

It’s risky to take out more loans than you can pay back. It can put a strain on your finances, making it hard to repay the loan. 

This could put you in more debt, which could hurt your credit score, so don’t borrow more than you can afford to pay back.

Don’t rush the application process

Read the loan terms carefully and make sure you understand them. It’s important to know what you’re agreeing to. 

However, if you rush through the application, you might miss important information like interest rates, payback terms, and late payment fees.

Don’t have inaccurate or incomplete information

If you make mistakes or leave out information on your loan application, it could be delayed or even turned down. 

Make sure that all of the fields are filled out properly to avoid extra work. This shows that you are reliable and pay attention to details.

Don’t forget about hidden fees

There may be hidden fees or penalties for paying off a loan early, such as origination fees, late payment charges, or early payback fines. 

Find out from the lender if there are any extra fees and how they will affect the total cost of the loan. This way, you won’t be caught off guard by extra costs later on.

Don’t co-sign for a loan unless you’re comfortable with the risk

When you co-sign a loan, you promise to pay it back if the main user can’t and that’s a big job to do. 

If the user doesn’t pay back the loan, it could hurt your credit score and make you less financially stable. 

Also, you should only co-sign if you trust the person and can pay the bill yourself if you have to. 

For more on your loan application, check out my guide on 5 Common reasons Your Loan Application Might Get Rejected.

Additional Tips for Loan Success

Maintain a good credit history

good credit history

To get a loan and good terms, you need to have a good credit score. To get a good score and keep it:

  • Always pay your bills on time.
  • Don’t take on too much debt.
  • Do not try to get too much new credit at once.
  • Regularly look over your credit record for mistakes and fix them if you find any.

Shop around for the best rates

Don’t take the first loan deal that comes your way. Check out the rates and terms of several lenders, such as online lenders, banks, and credit unions. You can save money on interest and fees and find the best deal this way.

Loanspot makes this easy by connecting borrowers with lenders that may be a good fit for their needs. Wanna try? 

Negotiate terms when possible

Don’t forget that loan terms aren’t always set in stone. Based on your credit background and finances, you may be able to get a better deal or a lower interest rate. Ask lenders for better rates or better terms without being afraid.

Understand repayment terms completely

Read over the payback plan and make sure you know when and how much you need to pay each time. Know what the fees are for paying late or not at all. These facts help you plan your money and stay away from mistakes that cost a lot of money.

Use loan approval as a springboard for financial growth

Using a loan in the right way can help you get your finances in better shape. 

With good loan behavior, you can build good credit, put money into good projects, or combine your debts. 

Pay your bills on time and be smart about how you handle your loan to improve your financial growth and security. 

In Conclusion,

It takes a mix of knowledge, planning, and care to get through the loan application process successfully. 

To be successful, you need to know how good your credit is, pick the right loan type, gather the necessary paperwork, be honest on your application, and show that you have a strong financial picture. 

On the other hand, you can avoid extra financial stress by not overextending yourself financially, hurrying through the application process, giving false information, missing hidden fees, and co-signing without thinking.

Good luck with your loan application!

Streamlining the Loan Journey: How to Reduce Application Processing Time and Boost Approvals

The traditional loan process can feel like an eternity, leaving both borrowers and lenders frustrated.

But what if there was a better way?  

Imagine a world of speedy approvals, streamlined processes, and happy borrowers and lenders alike!  

This future is possible thanks to innovative technology and smarter loan systems. 

In this blog post, we’ll explore how to revolutionize the loan experience for everyone.  

Let’s get started.

How to Reduce Application Processing Time and Boost Approvals

Understanding the Loan Process Obstacles

1. Manual data collection and verification

The traditional loan process heavily relies on manual efforts to gather and verify applicant information. 

This not only slows down the process but also increases the likelihood of errors. 

First, you must collect financial statements, credit reports, and other needed documents, and then, you must verify their accuracy and authenticity. 

This can be a time-consuming task and it delays the whole loan approval and disbursement process.

2. Incomplete applications

People who are applying for loans often send in forms that aren’t complete. 

Applicants may forget to include important details or documents because they aren’t sure what is needed or what the standards are. 

This means that the provider and the application have to talk back and forth, which takes time. 

3. Lack of transparency and communication

People who are applying for loans are often not told what stage of the process their application is in or what steps are still needed. 

For applicants, this lack of transparency and conversation can make them angry and stressed. Also, if applicants and lenders talk poorly, it can cause confusion and delays.

4. Slow Decision-Making Processes

In standard banks, the decision includes setting the loan terms and deciding if the application is creditworthy. This process can take a long time. 

It is usually because there needs to be more than one level of review and approval. 

This slow decision-making can be a major obstacle because it directly affects how long it takes for a loan application to get a decision. 

Strategies for Streamlining the Loan Journey

loan approval

To make the loan process easier, taking smart steps can make the application faster, cut handling time, and improve the customer experience. Here are a few strategies that work:

1. Leveraging technology

  • Online applications and data pre-filling

Online applications completely change the loan process by making it easy and available for people who want to apply. 

Data pre-filling saves time because it fills in an applicant’s info on the form based on info they already gave. This not only speeds up the application process but also makes sure that the information sent is correct.

  • Automated document verification

Technology can verify papers, like income statements, asset releases, and job proofs. It can also cut the time for checks by a huge amount which speeds up the process of verifying information, lowers the chance of mistakes made by humans, and speeds up the whole loan acceptance process.

  • Integration with credit bureaus

Credit checks and financial estimates can be done in real time thanks to direct interaction with credit bureaus

This merging speeds up the credit check process, which means loan decisions can be made faster and loans can be paid out more quickly.

Loan disbursement can also be easier with automation!

Check out my thoughts on automating loan disbursement.

2. Optimizing the Application Process

  • Clear and concise application forms

Making application forms clear and to the point helps people understand what they need to do without feeling stressed. 

This can lead to more full and correct applications, which means that there is less need for follow-up questions.

  • Dynamic conditional questions

You can get more useful information more quickly by setting up a method where the application form changes based on how the person answers. 

Based on the previous answers, this method makes sure that only relevant questions are asked, which speeds up and simplifies the application process.

  • User-friendly progress tracking

Giving loan applicants an easy-to-use screen or progress tracker for their application can make the whole process a lot better. It makes the state of the application and the steps that need to be taken clear, which cuts down on uncertainty and the need for follow-up contacts.

3. Streamlining Communication

  • Automated status updates for borrowers

Using computerized systems to let borrowers know regularly about the state of their applications can make communication a lot better. 

With this, applicants know what’s going on throughout the process, which lowers their stress and the number of times they call the loan.

Check out my guide on How Fintech is Revolutionizing Loan Disbursement and Collection

Benefits of a Streamlined Loan Journey

Below are the benefits of making the loan process simpler and faster:

1. Improved customer experience

When the loan process is easier, both the people borrowing money and the lenders have a better experience. 

Borrowers feel happy because it’s easier to apply, and they get answers faster and lenders are happy because they can help more people efficiently.

2. Faster loan approvals and funding

With a streamlined process, loans can be approved more quickly. This means borrowers get their money faster, which is great when they need it urgently.

3. Increased application completion rates

When the application process is simpler, more people finish their loan applications and don’t get frustrated by complicated forms and requirements, so more loans get completed.

4. Reduced operational costs

A smoother loan process means less time and money spent on each loan application. Lenders can save on costs like staff time and paperwork, making the whole process cheaper and more efficient.

If you’re interested in experiencing a faster and easier loan application process, consider obtaining a loan from Loanspot Nigeria. Loanspot’s technology and network of lenders can help you find the right loan option quickly and efficiently.

In Conclusion,

Streamlining the loan process with technology and better communication helps everyone get the loan faster and easier. 

Customer satisfaction goes up because they can get their loans faster and with less trouble. It’s also good for lenders, who can handle payments more quickly and save money. 

By making it easier to apply for a loan, costs go down, decisions happen faster, and more applications are filled out.

National Assembly Passes Student Loan Bill, Give Stricter Rules

National Assembly

The National Assembly has passed the Student Loans (Access to Higher Education) Act (Repeal and Re-Enactment) Bill, 2024.

This revamped legislation aims to make student loans more accessible and establish clearer repayment terms.

The bill follows President Bola Tinubu’s request to revise the initial Student Loan Bill passed in June 2023.

The President cited concerns about the program’s initial implementation and proposed changes to ensure its smooth operation.

According to the bill, the family income threshold requirement and the need for a guarantor are no longer needed, making it easier for students from diverse backgrounds to apply.

Loan approval will hinge on verification criteria set by the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND).

The new legislation also mandates fair distribution of approved loans across the country.

Loan repayment begins upon securing employment, with a two-year grace period after completing the National Youth Service Corps program and deferral options are available for unemployed graduates.

The bill stated that providing false information during the loan application process is a criminal offense and penalties can be severe, reaching up to three years’ imprisonment.

Provisions exist for loan forgiveness in extenuating circumstances like death or natural disasters.

For more information on student loans in Nigeria, check out these guides:

Top 10 Student Loan Apps in Nigeria

Student Loan Trust Fund

Mpower Student Financing Loan

The Future of Loan Management: How Fintech is Revolutionizing Disbursement and Collection

Forget the loan application marathon! 

Remember those days of endless forms and bank queues, just to borrow a little cash? 

Ugh!  

Thankfully, those times are changing thanks to Fintech.

Fintech uses modern technology to make things faster and safer.

This means less paperwork and fewer mistakes because computers help do the work.

So, ditch the loan application stress and dive into the world of Fintech! 

Let’s explore how it’s revolutionizing the way we borrow and repay money.

How Fintech is Revolutionizing Loan Disbursement and Collection

The Pain Points of Traditional Loan Management

1. Slow Disbursement Process

In the past, you had to queue for a long time just to get a simple loan.

First, you need to give a lot of information about yourself on a bunch of forms, and then the bank checks things like your income, and credit background one by one, to decide if they should lend you the money.

All of these take a long time which can be frustrating.

2. Inefficient Collection Methods

When loans were handled traditionally, getting the money back from borrowers was not an easy task at all.

A lot of the time, banks and other lenders send letters to people to tell them to pay back their loans. 

This makes it very slow and strenuous for lenders because people don’t always get the letters, some don’t care about them. 

As a result, a lot of bills are missed, a lot of loans are not paid back on time and lenders lose money.

3. Lack of Transparency

Everyone knows that when it comes to money matters, there has to be a lot of transparency and before the advent of fintech, borrowers often had trouble with how clear standard loan management is. 

Some people may not know exactly how much they still owe, when their payments are due, or what they can do if they can’t make a payment. 

It can be difficult to understand and borrowers can’t make good choices about their loans if they don’t have clear information. 

When loan terms aren’t understood properly, one can pay more or get into trouble.

How Fintech is Revolutionizing Disbursement and Collection

How Fintech is Revolutionizing Loan Disbursement

1. Streamlined Applications & Approvals

The game is changing because fintech is making it easier and faster to apply for and get a loan. 

Instead, of having to queue for hours or fill out a lot of forms, you can quickly apply online instead.

Easy Peasy!

You see, AI which fintech companies are hinged on, works like a smart computer program.

It can immediately look at your credit score and other important data and decide if you can get a loan.

This means you won’t have to wait days or weeks to get a loan, you can get one in just a few minutes or hours.

Take Loanspot for example, it connects borrowers with a marketplace of lenders, allowing you to compare rates and terms from multiple lenders before making a decision.

You can apply for a loan directly on Loanspot and receive funds quickly when approved.

2. Digital Disbursement

Fintech also speeds up and simplifies the loan process. 

This means the money you borrowed is sent straight to your bank account, so you don’t have to wait for a check to arrive in the mail or go to the bank. 

The even greater part about this, especially in a fast-paced world like ours is that it happens just a few hours or almost right away.

Quick responses thanks to fintech help you meet your urgencies and emergencies.

3. Integration with Accounting Systems

Another cool thing about Fintech is that it works well with ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) tools, which simply allows money to be sent right away to the right place once your loan is accepted.

This is great for businesses because it makes it easy to keep track of money and loan payments can be made immediately through their current financial systems. 

How Fintech is Transforming Loan Collection

1. Automated Payment Reminders & Schedules

With automated messages and personalized payment plans, fintech is making it easier to get back on track with loan payments. 

When loan payments are due, these fintech systems send automatic messages through email or text messages instead of the traditional way of doing things manually, like writing letters. 

Also, fintech companies can make payback plans that work for everyone’s budget, which makes it easier to make payments on time and not miss any.

2. Data-Driven Collection Strategies

Data analytics are used by fintech companies to make loan collection better.

These fintech companies can tell who might have trouble paying back their loan on time by looking at their data. 

With your data, lenders can get in touch with you and offer help or other payment options before you miss a payment if you give them this information. 

This also helps lenders as they can get more money without having to deal with as many late payments when people are more proactive about paying back their loans.

3. Self-Service Options & Mobile Tools

mobile loan apps (How Fintech is Revolutionizing Disbursement and Collection)

Fintech has equipped people who borrow money with the tools they need to easily handle their loans on their own. 

No matter where they are, people can check their loan amount, make payments, and see a record of their payments through online sites and mobile apps like the Palmpay loan app.

People are more likely to keep up with their loans and make payments on time because this makes it easy for them to do so. 

Being able to do all of these on a mobile phone makes the whole process easier and less stressful for everyone. 

The Future of Loan Management with Fintech

1. Emerging Technologies

Things like blockchain and machine learning will be very important in managing loans in the future. Blockchain can improve the safety and openness of the process and everyone can trust the loan process more because it provides records that can’t be tampered with.

With machine learning, choices can be made faster and with more accuracy. 

A lot of information can be used to figure out who should get a loan and how to best handle it.

2. Regulatory Considerations

It’s important to keep the laws and rules up to date as Fintech grows.

New technologies must be used fairly and safely, as spelled out by their rules. 

This means keeping people’s information safe and making sure that machines don’t misuse them. 

Businesses and governments need to work together to make and refine rules that protect everyone’s money and help Fintech grow. 

In Conclusion…

Fintech is changing the way loans are managed by making things faster, easier to use, and more efficient. 

The problems with traditional loan management like slow disbursements, inefficient collection methods, and a lack of openness, are fixed by simplified applications, digital payment, and automatic collections. 

Also, new technologies like blockchain and machine learning are going to change this field even more, making it safer and easier to make decisions. 

But it’s important that governing systems change along with these improvements to keep the financial world fair, open, and safe. 

How To Navigate Your Finances in a Tough Economy

I’m sure you’re feeling the squeeze in this Nigerian economy. 

We all are!  

For many people in Nigeria today, the economy is like being on a roller coaster: exciting for some, but scary for others. 

As the cost of living rises and the average Nigerian’s dream of financial security fades, it’s more important than ever to keep track of one’s money. 

Recent changes in the economy have made it harder for many people to stay afloat by making every dollar count in their fight to stay afloat.

But not to worry, I’ll help you figure out how to handle your money in these rough times. 

Let’s talk about useful ways to stretch your naira, make smart choices, and protect your money from the storm. 

How to navigate your finances in a tough economy

Build a Strong Foundation

Knowing where you stand financially is the first step to building a strong base. 

To begin, follow these steps:

1. Assess your financial situation

You can assess your financial situation by doing this:

  • Income: Make a list of all the ways you make money to start. This could be your regular pay, any side jobs, contract work, renting income, or other ways you make money. The first thing you need to do to figure out how much money you have is to add up all of your pay.
  • Expenses: To track spending, categorize your expenses as fixed or variable. Fixed expenses (like rent, mortgage, or car payments) are consistent each month, while variable expenses (such as groceries, entertainment, and dining out) can fluctuate. Use apps like Mint or PocketGuard to monitor your spending habits over a month, providing insight into where your money goes and identifying areas for adjustment.
  • Debts: Make a list of all debts, including credit cards, loans, and mortgages, noting down their interest rates and minimum monthly payments. This inventory will help prioritize which debts to pay off first, targeting those with the highest interest rates.

2. Create a Budget (or Revise Existing One)

monthly budget

You can make or change your budget once you have a good idea of your income, spending, and debts.

Start by putting the most important costs first, like rent, bills, and food.

Make sure that your budget covers these first.

Also, use the rest of your cash to save money and pay off your debts.

Building up a savings account for unplanned costs and paying off as much debt as you can are both good ideas.

Most importantly, you might find it easier to keep track of and control your spending if you use planning apps or worksheets. 

You can better handle your money with apps like Mint, YNAB (You Need A Budget), and PocketGuard. They group your purchases automatically. 

You can connect them to your bank accounts and debit cards to get real-time information.

A simple spreadsheet with sections for income, spending, savings, and loans can also do the job. 

This will help you stay organized and on track.

Strategies for Saving and Debt Management

1. Build an emergency fund

emergency fund

An emergency fund is a safety net for your money that you can use in case of sudden costs like medical problems, losing your job, or needing to fix things around the house right away.

Setting aside enough cash to cover your living costs for three to six months is the goal. 

Start by saving as little as possible every month, and as your finances get better, slowly increase the amount you save.

This fund will keep you from going into debt when costs come up out of the blue.

Want to get started on building an emergency fund? Check out my post on how to build an emergency fund!

For more tips on saving, check out this guide How To Boost Your Savings 

2. Reduce debt strategically

Reducing debt requires a planned approach. Begin by listing all your debts in order of interest rate, from highest to lowest. 

Focus on paying off the debt with the highest interest rate first, while maintaining minimum payments on others. 

This method, often called the avalanche approach, reduces the amount you pay in interest over time, helping you clear your debts faster. 

Regularly reassess your debt plan to ensure it aligns with your current financial situation.

3. Cut back on unnecessary expenses

cutting expenses

Examine your spending habits to identify areas where you can cut back. Non-essential expenses, such as dining out, subscriptions, and luxury items, are often the easiest to reduce. 

Reevaluate these costs and determine if they are essential or if they can be replaced with more cost-effective alternatives. 

Redirecting the money saved from these cuts towards your savings or debt repayment can significantly accelerate your financial progress.

Diversify Your Income Stream 

1. Explore side hustles

side hustle

In the gig economy of today, side jobs are a good way to make extra money. 

These could be anything from freelancing in your area to making money with hobbies or skills like baking, crafting, or photography. 

You can use online markets like Upwork, Fiverr, and Etsy to sell your goods and skills.

You could also look for jobs in your area, like teaching, pet sitting, or driving for ride-sharing services. 

To make extra money without getting too tired, you need to find something that fits your hobbies and routine.

Here are 7 daily businesses in Nigeria you can explore as well.

2. Seek promotions or raises at work

Gaining more responsibility at work can be an easy way to make more money.

You can prepare for this by always doing good work, taking on more responsibility, and showing the company how valuable you are.

Set a time to talk with your boss about your work goals and let them know you’d like a raise or promotion. 

Prepare to talk about your achievements, the things you’ve helped with, and the market study you did on average salaries for people with your experience and role. 

Not only does getting a rise in pay or a raise increase your income, but it also improves your work possibilities.

In conclusion… 

When the economy is bad, managing your money is a constant process that needs your attention, the ability to change, and smart choices. 

The economy is always changing, so it’s important to keep up with financial news and tips so you can change your plans to fit these changes. 

Check your finances often, make changes to your budget, save, and plan to pay off debt as needed, and stay open to finding new ways to make money. 

You can not only handle economic uncertainty but also build a strong base for long-term financial health and security by staying aware and adaptable. 

Remember that being able to adapt and respond effectively to changes in the economy is the key to being financially stable.

Student Loan: NANS Advocates Five-year Post-NYSC For Repayment

National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS)

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has proposed that student loan repayment should begin five years after NYSC (National Youth Service Corps).

The NANS President, Lucky Emonele, advocated this at Abuja on Monday, during the repeal and re-enactment of the 2024 Students Loans Access to Higher Education Bill.

He stated that the current proposal requiring repayment to begin two years after NYSC completion was unrealistic.

Emonele also noted that there was a low graduate employment rate within that timeframe, with less than 10% securing jobs.

The Minister of Education Prof. Tahir Mamman, lauded President Tinubu’s commitment to education and noted the importance of the public hearing in serving the interest of Nigerian students.

Other notable personalities at the hearing were the Chairman of the committee, Senator Muntari Dandutse, and the Deputy Senate President, Jibrin Barau.

An extended repayment period, as proposed by NANS, would give graduates more time to get on their feet financially.

Check out our guide for more information on student loans in Nigeria

Zenith Bank Makes History with First Female CEO

Dr. Adaora Umeoji

Zenith Bank Plc, a leading financial institution in Nigeria, has announced a historic move with the appointment of Dr. Adaora Umeoji as its first female Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer (GMD/CEO).

This was disclosed in a statement signed by the Company’s Secretary, Michael Otu, on Tuesday.

Dr. Umeoji’s tenure will officially begin on June 1, 2024, succeeding the current GMD, Dr. Ebenezer Onyeagwu, whose term concludes on May 31st.

Zenith Bank in a statement filed with the Nigerian Exchange Limited, stated that Dame (Dr.) Adaora’s extensive experience and qualifications made her a perfect fit to lead the bank into the future.

Dr. Umeoji brings a wealth of knowledge to the role, having served as Zenith Bank’s Deputy Managing Director since 2016.

The new CEO boasts a distinguished academic background, holding a bachelor’s degree in Sociology, a bachelor’s degree in Accounting, and a first-class honors degree in Law.

She also has a Master of Laws, an MBA, and a Doctorate in Business Administration.

Her appointment serves as a powerful inspiration for women across Nigeria’s financial sector, demonstrating the limitless possibilities for leadership excellence.

List of Fake Loan Apps in Nigeria, 2024

Amid the many loan apps available, some fake apps have reared their ugly heads. 

These fake loan apps prey on your desperate need for money.

They start charging crazy high interest rates, grabbing your data without permission, and then hounding you for repayment like loan sharks from a bad movie. Yikes!

Before you get tangled in this web, here’s the lowdown on some confirmed fake loan apps in Nigeria to avoid (and some tips on how to spot the real deal!). 

Let’s make sure you get the financial help you need, without the drama!

List of Fake Loan Apps in Nigeria

List of Known Fake Loan Apps in Nigeria

In Nigeria, several loan apps have been identified as fraudulent, exploiting customers through deceptive practices such as unlawful debt collection methods and hidden charges. 

Some of these fake loan apps include:

  • ChaCha
  • Cashwow
  • Asan loan
  • GoCash
  • Here4U
  • Kashkash
  • Maxi Credit
  • Angel Loan
  • Buddy Loan
  • Ease Cash
  • SoftPay
  • Sokoloan
  • Speedy Choice
  • Betwinner Loan
  • Aimloan
  • Ajeloan
  • Cash Mall
  • LCredit
  • Palmcash
  • Rapid Naira

Note: There have been reports of these apps breaking the law and being scammers. 

For example, by stealing user information or charging fees. As a Nigerian, you should be very cautious and thoroughly investigate any loan app before using it. 

Fraudulent platforms are always changing and new ones are always popping up.

Disclaimer: This list of fake loan apps is not exhaustive, and new fraudulent platforms may emerge over time. 

I urge you to exercise caution and thoroughly research any loan app before use. 

Always verify the app’s legitimacy through official channels and customer reviews to safeguard against potential financial risks and scams.

How to Identify Fake Loan Apps

Lack of transparency

Real loan applications will show all the relevant data. This includes interest rates, costs, loan terms, and lending business information. 

If this information is missing, unclear, or hard to understand, the application might not be reliable. 

Borrowers need to have transparency in these areas so they may make wise judgments.

Incompetent delivery

The authenticity of the app can be determined by the caliber of its information and design. Such apps have many spelling and grammar mistakes. 

They also have unprofessional or inconsistent branding and low-quality graphics. They are often made quickly, which raises the risk of fraud. 

Generally, a respectable loan organization will spend money on an interface that is expertly created and easy to utilize.

Unsolicited offers

If you receive loan offers from an app or business you have never dealt with previously, it may be a fraud. 

Generally speaking, legitimate financial organizations don’t send out unsolicited loan proposals. 

Such actions may be a component of phishing campaigns designed to get personal data.

Excessive permissions

Legitimate lending apps need access to certain permissions. 

For example, they need your financial data for loan evaluation. 

But, if an app asks to access irrelevant information like your social media accounts, contact list, or images, it may be collecting data for bad reasons.

A trustworthy alternative like Loanspot only requires data directly related to your loan application, ensuring your privacy is respected.

Pressure techniques

Good lenders give borrowers time to weigh their options. 

They can review the terms and decide what to do. An application is trying to mislead you. 

It pressures you to approve a loan right away. It offers tempting but temporary offers that seem too good to be true.

Assurance of approval

Apps that promise to approve loans for you without checking your credit history should be avoided. 

This is a common strategy employed by dishonest lenders to draw in people in need of money. 

Before accepting a loan, reputable lenders always run some sort of credit check or financial analysis.

Unknown business

Examine the business that created the lending app. The app is likely fraudulent. 

You can’t find any reliable information, like a company website, client testimonials, or an office address. 

A reliable lender will be well-established online and have a track record that can be verified.

High initial costs

Before granting a loan, scammers frequently demand money up front, passing it off as application or processing costs. 

This is a typical fraud strategy. 

Reputable financial organizations normally don’t demand fees up front; instead, they subtract it from the loan amount after processing applications and determining eligibility.

Uncertain contact details

Reliable loan apps have clear contact details. These include a customer support phone number, email address, and office location. 

A warning sign should be raised if the app’s contact details are ambiguous, nonexistent, or lead to subpar customer support.

Lack of regulatory compliance

Legitimate lending applications are subject to financial authority regulation and registration. 

They abide by the financial and legal standards of the area in which they conduct business. 

You should be suspicious of an app if it lacks proof of regulatory compliance. This proof can be a license or financial authority registration.

Safe Loan Borrowing Practices

Use reputable lenders

Only borrow from loan apps and lenders with a solid reputation. 

Research the lender’s history. 

Look at customer reviews and their track record. 

Do this to ensure they are trustworthy.

Check registration

Verify the lender’s registration with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). 

Registered lenders are more likely to adhere to regulatory standards and fair practices.

Read the terms and conditions

Before applying for a loan, read and understand the terms and conditions. 

Pay attention to interest rates. Also, look at repayment schedules and any extra fees or charges.

Safeguard personal information

Be cautious when sharing personal information. Only provide sensitive data on secure platforms. 

Make sure the lender has strong privacy policies to protect your information.

Build good credit

A good credit score can provide access to better loan options with lower interest rates. Pay existing debts on time. 

Keep a good financial record. 

Regularly check your credit score to improve it.

In conclusion……

Don’t let fake loan apps steal your joy!   

While mobile lending offers convenience, stay vigilant against scams.  By following these smart tips (and keeping a watchful eye!), you can navigate the digital lending landscape with confidence. 

Remember, informed borrowers are empowered borrowers. So go borrow safely and securely!