Considering going on a last-minute travel adventure? While we’ve been programmed to think that last-minute travel equates to more expensive, this isn’t necessarily always the case. In this article, we’re dishing out the top 5 last-minute travel tips and ways in which you can score big and tap into great last-minute travel deals. 

From tips on how to google flights to finding hotel rooms with perks and everything else you might need for your last-minute bookings, we've got you covered right here.
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1) Be flexible

Flexibility is key to saving on any last-minute travel needs you may have. And the number one way of doing so is by being f.l.e.x.i.b.l.e.

Whether it’s with your travel dates, flight times, or destination, flexibility can save you a lot of money in the long run. Accommodation and flight prices depend on a plethora of factors such as whether it's in-season or off-season, if you're only looking at popular destinations, or if there are events taking place nearby at the same time, i.e. a conference.

Be sure to check out a range of options before deciding on a specific date and time, just a day’s difference can equate to hundreds of dollars. You might end up surprised by how much money you can save on your last-minute travel adventure by just going with the flow.
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2) Fly wise, fly cheap

The most significant savings come from hotel deals and package deals—not airplane tickets. Flight prices usually go up in cost as the date of departure gets closer, but there is hope for last-minute travel deals. If you want to fly out of town within the same week that you book your seats, try buying your tickets on a Sunday or Tuesday, airlines frequently discount their fares on these days and offer the best deals.

You'll be saving some decent money by avoiding flying on Fridays and Mondays as fares are expected to be higher since they're the most popular days for weekend travelers. Opt for mid-week travel if possible.

Another top tip that many individuals are unaware of is that their browser keeps track of the terms they search for on a regular basis. If the platform notices that someone is searching for anything related to holidays or last-minute flights, the price will rise.

To avoid paying more for the same thing, make sure to open your browser in an incognito window before you google flights and thus prevent being tracked or leaving a history of your searches. The same applies to airline websites and online travel agencies. Not just a last-minute travel hack, but one to use across all varieties of travel.
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3) Be on the lookout for perks

If you're looking for a more affordable way to vacation, then pay attention to the perks and benefits offered by travel companies and accommodations, especially when it comes to last-minute travel. Consider booking accommodation that includes free breakfast and/or complimentary parking, every little bit helps. 

You will be surprised at how much money some of these perks can save! For instance: free breakfast could save you about $20 to $25 per day while parking can easily range from anything between $30 to $45 a day if you opt to get a rental car.

Always do the math before deciding if a specific accommodation is worth it. Check out platforms like Booking.com, Travago, and a specific hotel website you like for the best deals and last-minute travel options, as well as travel apps for any last-minute deals.
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4) Read the fine print

When it comes to a last-minute trip, be aware of the fine print when booking your flight, adventure, or accommodation. Make sure to read up on their cancellation policies as many airlines now offer relaxed rules for changing plans at short notice which means you may be able to change dates without penalty if necessary.

While last-minute deals and spontaneity are exciting, sometimes life has a way of getting in the way so be sure to know the specific terms of your flights and hotels.
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5) Prep like a pro

If you're looking to travel on a budget, there's more to think about than just withdrawing cash from an ATM. With a little planning ahead, you can become a savvy traveler and save yourself some money - even with last-minute travel!

Many of us have been abroad and had to pay outrageous ATM and credit card fees. And all because we didn’t do our research and plan ahead. By taking your Tap card with you, you’ll save a substantial amount of money on your ATM withdrawal fees and foreign exchange fees thanks to its low to zero fees plans compared to that of traditional banks. 

All operated through the app, you can stay up to date on your transaction history and your balances in real-time, and easily - and instantly - transfer funds between accounts. The card also allows you to swipe at merchants worldwide and make quick payments no matter where in the world you might be.

It's also worth doing your research on whether the place you are traveling to prefers guests paying cash or if it is more card transaction based. You would hate to have to travel around with a wad of cash that is difficult to get rid of.

Be wise

Booking for a honeymoon, anniversary, or simply a romantic getaway? Last-minute travel might not be appropriate for you if you’re set on a particular type of accommodation at a particular location or must go during specific travel dates. 

If everything has to be in harmony with your plans, we would strongly recommend you book ahead of time instead of opting for a last-minute trip. You wouldn’t want to cut corners to save money on your once-in-a-lifetime memories. 

Travel smart to travel far

Embrace all that life has to offer by exploring different corners of the globe and get more bang for your buck with these 5 travel tips. From saving a few bucks here and there, you could end up saving big on your last-minute trip.

Be sure to switch to incognito mode and start searching for your dream holiday, it might be just around the corner! 

The Basic Attention Token (BAT) is a utility token designed to transform the digital advertising space. Developed for the Brave web browser ecosystem, BAT aims to create a fairer and more transparent advertising model for both users and advertisers. By incentivising user attention and rewarding them with BAT for engaging with ads, the Brave browser ecosystem is tackling the inefficiencies and privacy concerns in digital advertising. 

What is Basic Attention Token (BAT)?

Basic Attention Token (BAT) is an Ethereum-based utility token integrated into the privacy-focused Brave browser page. Launched in 2016, Brave aims to revolutionise the digital advertising industry by promoting fairness and transparency between advertisers, publishers, and users.

Users receive cryptocurrency rewards in the form of BAT for viewing ads, which allows publishers to deliver more impactful advertisements. This empowers advertisers to make better use of their budgets and better target their target audience. Users then have the flexibility to hold, exchange, or use BAT to support their favourite content creators.

BAT acts as a settlement currency for publishers within the Brave browser ecosystem, facilitating transactions between advertisers, publishers, and users based on their web activity. This token streamlines business between the three parties.

Since its inception, Brave has gained popularity among crypto users and established partnerships with reputable blockchain companies, cementing its position as a leader in the blockchain-based digital advertising space. Through BAT, which launched in 2018, Brave aims to transform the digital advertising economy.

Who created Basic Attention Token?

Basic Attention Token (BAT) was founded by Brendan Eich and Brian Bondy, two highly regarded individuals in the internet browsing software sector. Eich is the co-founder and former CTO of Mozilla Firefox and the inventor of Javascript while Bondy is an influential software engineer with an impressive resume. 

A year after launching the Brave web browser, the pair launched an initial coin offering for the Basic Attention Token (BAT), raising $35 million in just 30 seconds. Selling 1 billion BAT tokens, this is one of the fastest sell-out ICOs of all time. Half of the tokens sold during the ICO were reserved by Brave Software, the parent company of the platform and token; of which 300 million of the reserved tokens were kept for future sale and promotion while 200 million were allocated to the Brave team. 

According to the website, the BAT token project has a team of 13 members behind it under the guidance of 4 advisors.

How does BAT work?

The Basic Attention Token (BAT) operates on the Brave browser, a privacy-focused platform developed by the team behind the token. Brave is a free browser that prioritises user control, loading pages significantly faster than its competitors. Unlike other browsers, Brave only serves advertisements if users opt-in to view them.

Within the Brave browser, users can participate in the Brave Rewards program, which enables them to earn BAT for their attention. They can choose to view privacy-respecting ads or support their favourite content creators by sending them BAT through the Brave Rewards Creators program. By default, Brave blocks trackers and ads, ensuring a more secure and private browsing experience. When users opt-in to view ads, they are only presented with ads from trusted partners, and they are rewarded in BAT for engaging with them.

Publishers are rewarded with BAT based on user attention to their content, encouraging the delivery of higher-quality ads. This rewards system benefits both publishers, who can generate more revenue, and advertisers, who achieve a better return on investment for their advertising budget.

Additionally, users can exchange BAT for various services on the platform and gain access to select premium content. The ultimate goal is to provide users with more control over their online experience while empowering publishers and advertisers with a more transparent and effective advertising platform.

To track the movement of BAT and facilitate transactions, Brave utilises the Brave Micropayments Ledger. This ledger allows advertisers, publishers, and readers to enter into smart contracts and transfer payments securely. Brave is also exploring the use of zero-knowledge proofs in its blockchain to provide anonymity in online media transactions.

Privacy and security are paramount in the Brave browser. Advertisers on Brave are verified, reducing the risk of fraudulent ads and ensuring a safer browsing experience. Users' private data and tracking information are stored only on their devices, preserving their anonymity.

To address fraud and privacy concerns, Brave and BAT have implemented robust security measures. The browser eliminates third-party traffic sourcing and utilises Basic Attention Metrics (BAM) to reduce fraud. The open-source code is auditable, and attention and engagement are verified using Zero-Knowledge Proof (ZKP) protocols. Ads and payouts are rate-limited, and token awards from the user growth pool are distributed gradually to discourage bot operations.

What is the BAT token?

In traditional advertising, advertisers pay rates based on the number of viewers their ads receive. With no guarantee that these viewers are paying attention, BAT seeks to address this issue by incentivising users to pay attention to ads.

When users view ad content on the Brave browser, they are rewarded with BAT tokens as a form of revenue sharing while the publishers and advertisers are rewarded for the most active advertising campaigns. These Brave rewards incentivize users to engage with the ads and provide advertisers with the assurance that their ads are being seen by an attentive audience. Advertisers are willing to pay a premium for this undivided attention.

BAT can be exchanged for cash or held in a digital wallet. Additionally, it can be traded on various cryptocurrency exchanges, allowing users to buy or sell BAT tokens. It's important to note that BAT has a limited supply, initially capped at one billion BAT tokens but later revised to 1.5 billion.

The Basic Attention Token price is influenced by the price of Ethereum since it is an ERC-20 token built on the Ethereum blockchain. As the price of Ethereum fluctuates, the Basic Attention Token price will adjust proportionally.

At the time of writing, the Basic Attention Token had a circulating supply of 1.49 billion BAT tokens, 99% of the maximum total supply.

How can I buy Basic Attention Token?

Whether you're interested in exploring the Basic Attention Token ecosystem or expanding your investment portfolio, you have the convenient option to purchase or sell Basic Attention Token tokens directly through the Tap app.

Tap is a fully licensed and regulated fintech platform that provides a secure avenue not only for purchasing BAT tokens but also for trading, storing, and utilising them. The integrated technology also ensures that traders have access to the top Basic Attention Token price at all times.

To get started, simply download the app, create an account, and complete a quick identity verification process, a legal requirement that typically takes less than 5 minutes. Once your account is set up, you can deposit either cryptocurrency or fiat funds and immediately tap into the coin's circulating supply by trading BAT tokens. The platform supports various leading cryptocurrencies and fiat currencies, enabling individuals from anywhere in the world to empower their financial journey.

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We are delighted to announce the listing and support of Kyber (KNC) on Tap!

KNC is now available for trading on the Tap mobile app. You can now Buy, Sell, Trade or hold KNC for any of the other asset supported on the platform without any pair boundaries. Tap is pair agnostic, meaning you can trade any asset for any other asset without having to worries if a "trading pair" is available.

We believe supporting KNC will provide value to our users. We are looking forward to continue supporting new crypto projects with the aim of providing access to financial power and freedom for all.

Kyber Network is a decentralized multi-chain liquidity hub that provides instant, secure transactions on any decentralized application (dapp). Its main goal is to provide deep liquidity pools that offer the best rates for DeFi dapps, decentralized exchanges (DEXs), and other users. Kyber Network is built on the Ethereum blockchain and makes use of intricate smart contracts.

Kyber Network seeks to solve the liquidity issue in the DeFi industry by allowing developers to build products and services using the platform's protocol, while KyberSwap acts as the trustless trading platform that also provides rewards for liquidity providers. With over $1 billion in total volume from over 1 million user transactions, Kyber Network is a growing player in the DeFi space.

Kyber Network Crystal (KNC) is the native coin for the platform and acts as both a utility and governance token. KNC holders can participate in the DAO and governance proposals by staking their assets or delegating their vote. Users can stake KNC to vote on upgrades and policies or delegate their tokens to other validators and earn a portion of the block reward.

Get to know more about Kyber (KNC) here in our dedicated article.

In a world where markets fluctuate and investments rise and fall, understanding market volatility is key to making informed choices. Whether you're a novice investor, an aspiring trader, or simply curious about the financial landscape, this article will empower you with a concise explanation of volatility. By the end, you'll be equipped with the knowledge to navigate through uncertain times and seize opportunities when they arise.

What is volatility?

In the dynamic world of finance and investing, volatility stands as a powerful force that can influence markets and impact investment outcomes. But what exactly is volatility? At its core, volatility is a statistical measure of variation or fluctuation in the value of an asset or market index over a specific period. It paints a picture of the price fluctuations of the financial instrument, showcasing the twists and turns it experiences along the way.

Understanding volatility is crucial for anyone seeking to make informed choices in the financial realm. By comprehending this concept, you gain the ability to navigate through uncertain times and seize opportunities when they arise. Volatility is not just about random price movements, it carries meaning, insights, and opportunities for those who can decipher its patterns.

Measuring volatility involves a range of calculation methods, with volatility indicators like standard deviation and Bollinger Bands providing valuable insights. These measurements help quantify the speed and magnitude of price changes, giving investors and traders a clearer picture of an asset's behavior.

What drives volatility? 

Economic indicators, market conditions, and even investor sentiment play significant roles in shaping volatility levels. Understanding these factors can help you anticipate and interpret market movements, empowering you to make more informed decisions about any financial instrument.

It is important to note that volatility is not something to fear. Instead, it is an essential element of any market that offers opportunities for growth and profit. By embracing volatility and equipping yourself with the knowledge to navigate its ebbs and flows, you can embark on a journey that leads to greater financial empowerment and success.

How to measure volatility

When it comes to calculating volatility, there are several calculation methods that provide insights into the degree of price fluctuation and market dynamics. Let's explore three commonly used volatility measures: standard deviation, Bollinger bands and average true range.

Standard deviation

Standard deviation is a widely used statistical tool for measuring volatility. It quantifies the variability of an asset's returns from its average market price. A greater standard deviation indicates high volatility. By calculating the standard deviation of historical price data, investors and analysts can assess the asset's typical price movements and potential risk. 

This measurement helps provide a statistical framework for understanding volatility patterns and making informed decisions.

Bollinger bands

Bollinger bands are another popular tool for measuring volatility. They consist of three lines plotted on a price chart. The middle line represents a moving average, while the upper and lower lines depict bands that are typically two standard deviations away from the average price. 

The width of the bands expands and contracts based on the asset's price volatility. Narrower bands suggest low volatility, while wider bands indicate high volatility. Traders often use Bollinger bands to identify potential price breakouts or reversals, making it a practical tool for short-term trading strategies.

Average True Range (ATR)

The Average true range is a volatility indicator that measures the average trading range of a financial asset over a given period. It takes into account the asset's daily highs and lows, capturing the true extent of price movement. A higher ATR suggests higher volatility, while a lower ATR indicates lower volatility.

The ATR helps investors and traders gauge the potential range of price trends and set appropriate stop-loss levels or profit targets. It can be particularly useful for determining position sizes and managing risk in various trading strategies.

These three measurements provide valuable insights into volatility, allowing market participants to assess risk, identify opportunities, and make informed decisions. By incorporating these tools into their analysis, individuals can navigate the ever-changing market landscape with greater confidence and precision.

Three main factors affecting market volatility

Volatility in financial markets is influenced by a multitude of factors, ranging from economic indicators to market conditions and investor sentiment. Understanding these factors is crucial for comprehending the drivers behind volatility and making informed decisions on how to trade volatility. Let's explore three key factors that can affect volatility:

Economic indicators

Economic indicators, such as GDP growth, inflation rates, interest rates, and employment figures, have a significant impact on market volatility. Positive economic data can boost investor confidence and lead to periods of low volatility, while negative or unexpected data can create uncertainty and increase volatility. Traders and investors closely monitor these indicators to gauge the health of the economy and anticipate potential market movements.

Market conditions

Market conditions, including geopolitical events, industry trends, and regulatory changes, can greatly influence stock prices and therefore volatility. Geopolitical tensions, such as trade disputes or political instability, can create uncertainty and volatility in global markets. Similarly, changes in industry dynamics, technological advancements, or shifts in consumer behavior can disrupt established market patterns, leading to increased volatility.

Investor sentiment

The collective sentiment and behavior of market participants play a significant role in driving volatility. Investor optimism or pessimism can lead to exaggerated price movements and heightened volatility. Factors such as market psychology, fear, and greed can influence how investors interpret and respond to market information. Understanding and monitoring investor sentiment can provide insights into potential market shifts and the overall level of volatility.

It's important to note that these factors interact with one another, creating a complex web of influences on volatility. Keeping a close eye on economic indicators, staying informed about market conditions, and gauging investor sentiment can help individuals navigate volatile markets and make empowered decisions. 

By recognizing and analyzing these factors, investors and traders can better understand the underlying forces driving volatility and position themselves for success.

Types of volatility

There are two primary types of volatility: historical and implied. 

Historical volatility

Historical volatility, a reflection of an asset's past price movements, plays a vital role in understanding an investment's risk and potential reward. By examining an asset's historical price data over a specific period, investors can gain valuable insights into its typical fluctuations.

This knowledge empowers them to assess the level of risk associated with the investment at hand. Higher historical volatility signals a greater likelihood of significant price swings, while lower historical volatility indicates more stable price behavior. Armed with an understanding of an asset's historical volatility, investors can make informed decisions, effectively manage risk, and devise appropriate investment strategies tailored to their risk tolerance and goals.

Implied volatility

A powerful concept derived from options pricing, implied volatility measures the market's collective expectations regarding future price movements of the underlying asset. It serves as a measure of perceived uncertainty surrounding the underlying asset's future performance.

By examining implied volatility, investors can gauge the market participants' outlook and sentiment, providing valuable insights into potential price movements. Higher implied volatility suggests increased anticipated price fluctuations, while lower implied volatility signifies a more subdued market outlook.

Understanding implied volatility equips investors with a deeper understanding of market sentiment, enabling them to make more informed decisions and adjust their strategies accordingly to capitalize on opportunities in the market.

Understanding both historical and implied volatility allows traders to develop effective strategies in different market conditions.

What volatility means for trading vs investing in the stock market

Volatility plays a distinct role for traders and investors in the stock market. For investors, volatility represents risk and the potential for higher returns. They must carefully assess their risk tolerance and investment horizon when navigating through volatile markets. Long-term investors often view volatility as an opportunity to buy assets at discounted prices, confident that the market will eventually stabilize and provide favorable returns over time.

Traders, on the other hand, embrace volatile assets as they present short-term opportunities for gains. They capitalize on rapid price movements by executing timely buy and sell orders, aiming to profit from the volatility itself. Traders employ various strategies, such as momentum trading or breakout trading, to take advantage of price swings that occur during volatile market conditions.

Businesses also feel the impact of volatility as they plan budgets, manage supply chains, and make strategic decisions. Fluctuating prices and uncertain market conditions can significantly impact profitability and operational stability. Businesses must develop contingency plans and risk management strategies to navigate through periods of heightened volatility.

In summary, while volatile assets carry risk, they also offer opportunities. Understanding the implications of volatility is vital for all stakeholders involved in the stock market, allowing them to make informed decisions and navigate through dynamic market conditions.

Tips on how to manage volatility in markets

Managing volatility in the financial markets can be a daunting task, but there are strategies that can help individuals navigate uncertain times and mitigate risks. Here are some tips for managing volatility:

Diversify your portfolio

One of the fundamental principles of managing volatility is diversification. By spreading your investments across different asset classes, sectors, and geographic regions, you can reduce the impact of volatility on your portfolio. Diversification helps to ensure that if one investment performs poorly, others may offset the losses, providing a more balanced approach to risk management.

Set realistic expectations

Volatility is an inherent characteristic of the markets, and it's essential to set realistic expectations. Avoid chasing short-term gains or trying to time the market during volatile periods. Instead, focus on long-term goals and develop a disciplined investment strategy that aligns with your risk tolerance and financial objectives.

Maintain adequate liquidity

Having sufficient liquidity is crucial during periods of volatility. It provides the flexibility to take advantage of opportunities that may arise and helps you weather market downturns without having to make hasty or unplanned investment decisions. Keeping a portion of your portfolio in cash or highly liquid assets can provide a buffer and peace of mind.

Stay informed and educated

Knowledge is power when it comes to managing volatility. Stay informed about market trends, economic indicators, and global events that can impact the financial markets. Continuously educate yourself about investment strategies, risk management techniques, and asset allocation. By staying informed, you can make more informed decisions and react appropriately to changing market conditions.

Maintain a long-term perspective

Volatility can tempt investors to make impulsive decisions based on short-term fluctuations. However, maintaining a long-term perspective is vital for success. Understand that markets go through cycles, and volatility is often temporary. Stick to your investment plan, avoid emotional reactions, and focus on the underlying fundamentals of your investments.

Consider risk management techniques

In addition to diversification, consider risk management techniques such as setting stop-loss orders, using trailing stops, or implementing hedging strategies. These tools can help protect against sudden market downturns and limit potential losses.

Remember, managing volatility is about accepting that it's a natural part of investing. By following these tips and maintaining a disciplined approach, you can navigate through volatile periods with more confidence, make informed decisions, and potentially seize opportunities that arise.

Volatility across different markets

Volatility is not limited to the financial world; it pervades various industries, each with its own unique dynamics. In the realm of finance, stock markets are particularly prone to volatility. Factors such as company earnings, economic indicators, and investor sentiment can drive rapid price fluctuations. Understanding these drivers and monitoring market trends can help investors adjust their strategies and make well-informed decisions to navigate through volatile stock markets.

Cryptocurrencies have gained significant attention due to their unprecedented volatility. The prices of cryptocurrencies can surge or plummet within a matter of hours or even minutes. Factors such as regulatory developments, technological advancements, and market speculation can trigger intense price swings. Individuals investing or trading in cryptocurrencies need to be prepared for this inherent volatility and develop strategies that account for the unique characteristics of this asset class.

Commodity markets, encompassing resources such as oil, gold, and agricultural products, also experience considerable volatility. Supply and demand dynamics, geopolitical factors, and natural disasters can all contribute to price fluctuations. Traders and businesses operating in these markets must stay attuned to global events and industry-specific factors to manage risks effectively and capitalize on potential opportunities arising from volatile commodity prices.

By recognizing the varying indications of volatility in different fields, investors, traders, and businesses can adapt their strategies and decision-making processes accordingly. This understanding allows for the development of sector-specific expertise and the implementation of risk management techniques tailored to the particular industry's volatility.

Always remember that navigating volatility in these specific fields requires vigilance, adaptability, and a deep understanding of the unique factors at play.

In conclusion

Volatility, in its simplest form, refers to the degree of variation or fluctuation in the price or value of an asset. It measures the speed and magnitude of price changes over a given period. It is an inherent aspect of financial markets, but it doesn't have to be a barrier to success. By comprehending the concept of volatility, understanding its measurement methods, and recognizing the factors that drive it, you can make informed choices. 

Empowered with this knowledge, you can navigate through uncertainty, capitalize on opportunities, and weather the storm when markets become turbulent. Remember, volatility is not negative, it's a dynamic force that, when harnessed wisely, can lead to rewarding outcomes.

Comprendre la valeur nette

Que vous soyez investisseur, épargnant ou que vous souhaitiez simplement mieux gérer votre budget, connaître votre valeur nette est une étape essentielle pour prendre le contrôle de votre situation financière. Cette donnée vous donne une vision claire de votre patrimoine et vous aide à prendre des décisions plus éclairées.

Contrairement au revenu, qui reflète ce que vous gagnez à un moment donné, la valeur nette donne une vue d’ensemble à long terme en tenant compte de ce que vous possédez (vos actifs) et ce que vous devez (vos dettes).

Quels éléments influencent votre valeur nette ?

Vos revenus

Le revenu regroupe vos différentes sources de gains : salaire, investissements, revenus secondaires… Plus vous gagnez, plus vous avez de potentiel pour augmenter votre patrimoine. Mais l’accumulation de richesse ne dépend pas seulement de ce que vous gagnez : elle repose aussi sur votre gestion des dépenses.

Vos actifs

Les actifs sont tout ce que vous possédez qui a de la valeur : épargne, biens immobiliers, portefeuille d’investissement, voiture… Diversifier vos actifs et miser sur ceux qui prennent de la valeur peut contribuer à faire croître votre patrimoine.

Vos dettes

Les dettes diminuent votre valeur nette. Elles incluent : prêts immobiliers, crédits à la consommation, soldes de cartes de crédit, etc. Réduire vos dettes, notamment celles avec des taux d’intérêt élevés, améliore mécaniquement votre valeur nette.

💡 Pour calculer votre valeur nette :
Valeur nette = Total des actifs – Total des dettes

Comment calculer sa valeur nette ?

Voici les étapes à suivre :

1. Listez vos actifs : incluez vos comptes bancaires, biens, investissements, etc.
2. Additionnez vos dettes : crédits en cours, prêts étudiants, factures impayées…
3. Soustrayez vos dettes de vos actifs : le résultat est votre valeur nette.

Exemple de valeur nette positive

Prenons le cas de Sarah :

Actifs :

• Maison : 400 000 €
• Épargne : 50 000 €
• Portefeuille d’investissement : 150 000 €
• Compte retraite : 200 000 €
• Voiture : 20 000 €
  → Total : 820 000 €

Dettes :

• Crédit immobilier : 200 000 €
• Prêt étudiant : 30 000 €
  → Total : 230 000 €

👉 Valeur nette = 820 000 € – 230 000 € = 590 000 €

Exemple de valeur nette négative

Prenons maintenant le cas de Mark :

Actifs :

• Voiture : 10 000 €
• Effets personnels : 5 000 €
  → Total : 15 000 €

Dettes :

• Prêt étudiant : 50 000 €
• Crédit carte bancaire : 8 000 €
• Factures médicales : 3 000 €
  → Total : 61 000 €

👉 Valeur nette = 15 000 € – 61 000 € = –46 000 €

Pourquoi chercher à augmenter sa valeur nette ?

🔒 Sécurité financière

Un patrimoine plus solide vous protège face aux imprévus : perte d’emploi, dépenses urgentes…

🎯 Réalisation de vos objectifs

Acheter un logement, créer une entreprise, préparer votre retraite… Tous ces projets deviennent plus accessibles avec une valeur nette en croissance.

📈 Construction de patrimoine

Augmenter sa valeur nette, c’est aussi se constituer un patrimoine durable à transmettre ou à faire fructifier.

🧠 Meilleures opportunités financières

Une valeur nette élevée améliore votre capacité d’emprunt et l'accès à des produits financiers avantageux.

🛠️ Plus de liberté

Un patrimoine solide vous permet de faire des choix en fonction de vos projets, sans être freiné par des contraintes financières.

☁️ Tranquillité d’esprit

Savoir que votre situation s’améliore réduit le stress et vous aide à planifier sereinement.

Conseils pour améliorer votre valeur nette

Gérez vos revenus et dépenses

• Développez de nouvelles sources de revenus
• Maîtrisez vos dépenses
• Épargnez régulièrement

Faites croître vos actifs

• Diversifiez vos investissements
• Renseignez-vous sur les opportunités dans l'immobilier, les actions, etc.

Réduisez vos dettes

• Priorisez le remboursement des dettes à taux élevé
• Réunifiez vos crédits si nécessaire
• Respectez un plan de remboursement clair

Planifiez à long terme

• Constituez une épargne de secours
• Anticipez votre retraite
• Envisagez de vous faire accompagner par un expert

En conclusion

Comprendre et suivre votre valeur nette est essentiel pour piloter vos finances et poser des bases solides pour l’avenir. Que vous soyez en phase de démarrage ou en pleine croissance financière, ce simple indicateur peut vous guider et vous encourager à faire les bons choix.

👉 Votre valeur nette n’est pas juste un chiffre. C’est le reflet de vos progrès financiers – et un outil pour façonner l’avenir que vous souhaitez.

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Le trading désigne l’achat et la vente d’actifs sur les marchés financiers — tels que les actions, devises, obligations ou matières premières — dans une logique de profit à court ou moyen terme. Contrairement à l’investissement, qui repose sur une stratégie de long terme, le trading consiste à tirer parti des fluctuations de prix à plus court terme.

Réussir dans cet univers nécessite de la rigueur, de la stratégie et la capacité à dégager des bénéfices de façon constante. Voici un aperçu de ce qu’implique réellement le trading.

Qu’est-ce que le trading ?

Le trading est la pratique qui consiste à acheter et vendre des instruments financiers dans le but de réaliser un profit. Il peut s’agir d’actions, d’obligations, de cryptomonnaies, ou encore de devises. Chacun de ces actifs possède une valeur qui peut évoluer à tout moment, à la hausse comme à la baisse.

Le trading repose donc sur l’idée d’acheter à bas prix et de revendre plus cher, ou inversement dans le cas de ventes à découvert.

Ces actifs sont échangés sur différents marchés spécialisés : par exemple, les devises sont négociées sur le marché des changes (forex), tandis que les actions le sont sur les bourses mondiales, comme le New York Stock Exchange ou la Bourse de Hong Kong. Il existe aujourd’hui plus de 17 000 instruments financiers à trader à travers différents marchés.

Avec l’inflation galopante dans de nombreux pays, de plus en plus d’épargnants se tournent vers le trading pour atteindre plus rapidement leurs objectifs financiers.

Comment fonctionne le trading ?

Le trading consiste à entrer sur un marché en achetant un actif, dans l’espoir que sa valeur augmente. Si le prix grimpe, vous pouvez le revendre et encaisser un profit. Si le prix baisse, vous pouvez choisir de vendre à perte ou de conserver l’actif jusqu’à une éventuelle remontée des cours.

Les prix de marché sont principalement influencés par la loi de l’offre et de la demande : plus une ressource est demandée, plus son prix augmente. À l’inverse, si trop de vendeurs sont en lice, les prix chutent.

Il existe deux façons principales de trader :

• Via une plateforme d’échange (exchange) : le prix est fixé de manière standardisée et les transactions sont automatisées.
• En OTC (Over-The-Counter) : l’achat ou la vente se fait directement entre deux parties (trader et courtier), avec une négociation sur le prix.

Dans les deux cas, certains traders choisissent d’utiliser un compte de courtage pour gérer leurs positions sur les marchés.

Quels sont les types d’actifs que l’on peut trader ?

Voici un aperçu des actifs les plus couramment échangés :

Actions

Les actions (ou titres de propriété) représentent une part d’une entreprise. En détenant une action, l’investisseur possède une fraction de cette société. Le trading d’actions consiste à acheter et vendre ces parts pour profiter des variations de prix.

Forex (marché des changes)

Le Forex est le marché des devises, où l’on échange des paires de monnaies (ex : EUR/USD). On achète une devise en espérant qu’elle prendra de la valeur par rapport à l’autre.

Obligations

Une obligation est un titre de créance émis par un État ou une entreprise. L’émetteur s’engage à rembourser le capital ainsi qu’un intérêt à une date déterminée.

ETF (Exchange-Traded Funds)

Les ETF sont des fonds indiciels cotés en bourse, regroupant plusieurs actifs (actions, obligations, matières premières). Ils permettent de diversifier ses placements tout en réduisant son exposition au risque.

Cryptomonnaies

Les cryptomonnaies sont des actifs numériques, généralement décentralisés, qui peuvent être échangés sur des plateformes spécialisées. Connues pour leur volatilité, elles attirent de nombreux traders en quête de mouvements rapides.

Indices boursiers

Un indice boursier suit la performance d’un ensemble d’actions regroupées selon un critère (secteur, pays, bourse...). Exemples : CAC 40, S&P 500. On peut les trader via des produits dérivés ou des ETF.

Matières premières

Les commodities regroupent les matières premières comme l’or, le pétrole, le blé ou encore le café. On les négocie souvent via des contrats à terme (futures), sans avoir à posséder physiquement les biens.

Trading d’actions vs trading sur le Forex

Bien que ces deux marchés offrent des opportunités de profit, ils présentent des différences notables.

Le marché des actions est structuré autour des bourses mondiales où l’on échange des titres d’entreprises. Il est généralement plus réglementé et nécessite un capital initial plus élevé. Les frais de courtage y sont aussi souvent plus importants.

Le Forex, quant à lui, est un marché décentralisé ouvert 24h/24. Il repose sur le trading de paires de devises et offre une plus grande liquidité. Il est aussi plus accessible aux débutants, grâce à des exigences de capital moindres et des frais de transaction réduits.

4 façons courantes de trader

Il existe plusieurs styles de trading, chacun avec ses avantages, ses exigences et son niveau de risque. Voici les plus populaires :

1. Le day trading

Le day trading consiste à ouvrir et clôturer des positions dans une même journée, sans jamais laisser de position ouverte la nuit. Très réactif, ce style mise sur la volatilité intrajournalière.

Il nécessite beaucoup de temps, de concentration et de connaissances techniques, tout en générant souvent plus de frais de transaction.

2. Le position trading

Ce style s’apparente davantage à une stratégie d’achat/vente à plus long terme. Les position traders analysent les grandes tendances du marché (via des graphiques journaliers ou mensuels) et conservent leurs positions plusieurs jours, semaines ou mois.

Ils cherchent à profiter des cycles haussiers ou baissiers, sans forcément anticiper les points d’entrée ou de sortie parfaits.

3. Le swing trading

Les swing traders interviennent à chaque changement de tendance. Ils gardent leurs positions quelques jours, parfois une à deux semaines, pour capter des mouvements intermédiaires de marché.

Moins exigeant que le day trading en temps, mais souvent plus risqué, le swing trading repose sur l’analyse technique et la capacité à détecter des phases de transition.

4. Le scalping

Le scalping est une stratégie ultra-rapide visant à réaliser de petits profits très fréquents sur des mouvements minimes. Les scalpers recherchent des marchés très liquides pour multiplier les transactions.

Ce style exige un capital important, une grande réactivité et une tolérance au stress. Il est souvent pratiqué dans des environnements de faible volatilité.

Trading vs investissement

Le trading et l’investissement sont deux approches bien distinctes.

• Le trading vise à profiter des mouvements de prix à court ou moyen terme, souvent sans détenir l’actif durablement.
• L’investissement consiste à acheter un actif et à le conserver sur le long terme, dans l’objectif de valorisation. Les investisseurs peuvent également percevoir des dividendes et bénéficier de droits de vote en tant qu’actionnaires.

En conclusion

Le trading est une activité qui consiste à acheter et vendre des instruments financiers tels que des actions, des obligations, des devises ou des cryptomonnaies dans l’objectif de tirer parti des fluctuations de prix. Il nécessite une bonne compréhension des marchés, une stratégie adaptée, et une gestion rigoureuse des risques.

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