Fonte: Adobe Stock Autor: Redação Findingcheap flights can seem like a tricky task, but with the rightstrategies, it’s possible to travel to your dream destinationwithout spending a fortune. Knowing how to take advantage ofpromotions, choosing the best times to buy, and understanding howprice fluctuations work are key factors in ensuring you pay less foryour tickets. Here, we share some essential tips so you can plan yournext trip without compromising your budget. The first step to saving is to be flexible with your dates andtimes. Flights in the middle of the week, especially on Tuesdays andWednesdays, tend to be cheaper than those on weekends. Additionally,flights at less popular times, such as early in the morning or lateat night, usually have more affordable fares. Using price comparisontools and setting up flight alerts can be an effective way to monitorfare changes and ensure you buy your tickets at the most advantageoustime. Another important tip is to explore different routes and airports.Sometimes, a flight with a layover or departing from an alternativeairport can be significantly cheaper. Investigating options forflights departing from nearby cities or with an extra stop can resultin considerable savings. Also, staying alert to promotions andairline campaigns, especially during events like Black Friday orlow-demand periods, is a smart strategy to find deals that aren’tavailable year-round. Lastly, avoid purchasing too far in advance or at the last minute.Studies show that the ideal period to buy tickets at the best pricesis between 6 to 8 weeks before the travel date. Careful planning andfollowing these tips can turn the task of finding cheap flights intoa true art, allowing you to travel more often and to moredestinations without straining your finances. After all, with theright approach, the sky isn’t the limit when it comes to exploringthe world.
Fonte: Adobe Stock Autor: Redação Intimes of economic uncertainty, renegotiating contracts and creditscan be the key to restoring financial stability and finding relieffrom economic pressures. This process not only allows for adjustingthe terms of debts and financial commitments but also offers anopportunity to reassess and improve personal financial management.Following some effective strategies can make all the difference inseeking better conditions and greater peace of mind. Firstly, it’s essential to conduct a detailed analysis of yourcurrent financial situation. Before beginning any negotiation, gatherall the information about your debts, contracts, and credit terms.Understand exactly what you owe and what your monthly expenses are.This will enable you to enter negotiations with a clear and assertiveview, making communication with creditors and other parties involvedeasier. Careful planning can help identify areas where costs can bereduced or conditions improved. Secondly, prepare for the negotiation based on concrete data.Research the market and compare offers from different financialinstitutions to understand the best deal available. When talking tocreditors, be transparent about your financial situation and presenta realistic proposal. Often, financial institutions are willing tooffer more favorable terms to prevent default. Demonstrating goodfaith and a solid plan can increase your chances of securing afavorable agreement. Lastly, keep in mind that renegotiation is an ongoing process thatshould be monitored regularly. After achieving new terms, it isimportant to closely monitor compliance with the agreement and makeadjustments as needed. Additionally, maintain open and continuouscommunication with your creditors. If new difficulties arise, informthem immediately and seek new ways to adjust your commitments. With aproactive and informed approach, you can turn financial challengesinto an opportunity to strengthen your financial health and achievegreater stability.
Source: Adobe Stock Author: Redaction Travelling abroad is an exciting experience, but withdrawing money at your destination can be a concern . However, contrary to what you might think, there are several options that can ensure you have easy and safe access to money while travelling, which weve listed in this article to make the process easier. Discover them and go travelling without any worries! 1. Debit and credit cards Debit and credit cards are convenient methods for withdrawing money abroad. Before travelling, let your bank know which destinations you intend to visit to avoid having your card blocked on suspicion of fraud. Also check international withdrawal fees, which can vary between financial institutions, and use ATMs from trusted banks to minimise the risk of fraud, avoiding withdrawal terminals in less secure areas. 2. Currency conversion at the bank Exchanging money at the bank before travelling can be an advantageous option. Many banks offer competitive exchange rates and dont charge additional service fees. When you arrive at your destination, youll already have the local currency on hand, which can be useful for paying for small expenses such as transport and meals. However, avoid carrying large amounts to minimise the risk of loss or theft . 3. Bureaux de change Bureaux de change are an alternative for converting money both in your country of origin and at your destination. Search for the best rates and avoid bureaux de change at airports, which generally offer less favourable rates. Remember that rates can vary significantly, so comparing several options can result in considerable savings. 4. Bank transfers and payment services Payment services such as PayPal, TransferWise (now Wise) and other digital platforms allow you to send and receive money quickly and securely . These services are especially useful if you need to transfer money between international bank accounts or pay for services abroad. The fees are generally lower than ATM withdrawals and currency conversions at banks. 5. Prepaid cards Prepaid travel cards are a practical and safe option. You can load the cards with the currency of your destination before travelling, avoiding exchange rate fluctuations. Whats more, these cards are not linked directly to your bank account, offering an extra layer of security. Many prepaid cards also allow cash withdrawals and are widely accepted in commercial establishments. Additional tips for withdrawing money abroad: - Plan ahead: find out which methods are accepted at your destination and plan how you will withdraw money; - Distribute your money: dont carry all your cash in one place. Distribute it between different cards and safe places; - Have an emergency reserve: carry a small amount of foreign currency for emergencies; - Monitor your balance: keep track of your spending and balance to avoid surprises and ensure you always have access to the money you need. Travelling abroad can be easier knowing that you have several safe and convenient options for withdrawing money! But if you have any other doubts, check out the following articles: Travelling on a low budget: tips for saving money and Are you about to go on holiday? How to keep everything organised
Source: Adobe Stock Author: Redaction In addition to choosing the house of your dreams, the decision on which interest rate to choose is one of the most important when taking out a mortgage , as it is something that will accompany you until the loan is paid off. Rates change according to the market and its financial indicators, so to help you understand the differences in the rates available, SUPERCASA Notícias will answer your questions. We are currently living in times when inflation in the Eurozone is out of control, and the major impact is on citizens, increasing the cost of living in general. With this in mind, the ECB (European Central Bank) has been studying the possibility of reducing interest rates, which are closely related to inflation , thus causing gradual relief and greater financial leeway for families. These changes fluctuate with the Euribor , which in turn is calculated daily and defines the average interest rate on interbank loans . The fixed interest rate If you opt for a fixed interest rate, you will always pay the same amount to the bank regardless of Euribor fluctuations. However, you should bear in mind that you may end up with a higher amount compared to the variable rate, due to the security of not having increased instalments. The rate to be applied depends on the bank, but is based on market values for the same term - this is called the swap rate. The advantages are therefore predictability and security, allowing for more precise financial planning since the monthly instalments will always be the same, and protecting you against unexpected interest rate rises , which can be crucial for families with tighter budgets. The cons, on the other hand, are cost, as the fixed interest rate is generally higher than the variable one due to the risk taken on by the bank, and inflexibility , as it prevents you from benefiting from potential drops in interest rates during the contract period. The mixed interest rate This is the rate that has been most sought after, as it has fixed interest at the start of the contract, followed by a variable rate . Those looking for greater stability prefer this rate as it is not subject to variations. It thus combines the characteristics of fixed and variable rates, dividing the contract period into two phases: in the first, the rate is fixed for a set period - for example, 5 or 10 years - while in the second phase the rate becomes variable, indexed to Euribor. This type of rate thus offers balance and savings potential, as you will have greater flexibility and benefits in relation to falling interest rates during the variable phase, but also in the first few years, during the fixed phase, when the impact of instalments on the budget is more critical. On the other hand, the mixed interest rate type gives less predictability, increasing the feeling of uncertainty, as the monthly instalment could go up after the fixed rate period if interest rates rise, making it difficult for you to plan your finances in the long term. The variable interest rate If you opt for the variable interest rate, you need to bear in mind that it depends on two factors: the spread and the 3 or 6 month Euribor rate. So if you opt for this version, you can expect to pay more if the Euribor rate rises. On the other hand, if it goes down, youll pay less. So the advantages lie in the cost and savings potential , while the disadvantages are intrinsically linked to the risk and unpredictability of interest rates, which can go up as well as down. Which is the best choice? Its important to bear in mind that each situation is unique and specific and should always be monitored by a financial institution, which will present you with the best conditions and options for your financial availability and profile. Nevertheless: - If you value security and predictability, a fixed rate may be the best option, even if it implies a slightly higher cost; - If youre looking for a balance between security and flexibility, a mixed rate may be a good alternative; - If you have a higher risk profile and are willing to take a risk in exchange for a potentially lower cost, the variable rate can be advantageous, as long as you are prepared to deal with the possibility of increased instalments. Remember that the choice of interest rate is a crucial decision with significant potential for your long-term finances. Investing time in analysing the different options and consulting a credit broker is key to making the right decision for you and your future. The criteria you should take into account before choosing are: - The stability of your income; - The term and amount of the bank loan; - The potential for career progression. If you found this article useful, then read: Three tips for dealing with rising instalments , What is a bank moratorium? Find out more , The 10 steps you need to take before going ahead with a house purchase or Home loans: what you should propose in a renegotiation
Source: Adobe Stock Author: Redaction Keeping a home economy organized is essential to ensure financial health and avoid unpleasant surprises at the end of the month. Keep your budget under control and maximize your income . One of the most effective ways to organize the home economy is by keeping a strict control on daily expenses . Write down all expenses, from the big ones to the small ones, and categorize them. There are several personal finance applications that can facilitate this task, allowing a clear view of where the money is being spent. With this habit, it’s easier to identify unnecessary expenses and adjust the budget as needed. Before you go to the grocery store, make a shopping list based on what you need and what you already have at home. Planning meals for the week can also help avoid impulse shopping and food waste. Also, take advantage of promotions and buy in greater quantity non-perishable products when they are discounted. Small daily savings can result in significant monthly savings. Define your financial priorities and set short-and long-term goals. Whether it’s paying off debt, saving for a trip or setting up an emergency fund, having clear goals helps keep focus and motivation . Reassess these goals periodically and adjust them as necessary to ensure they are aligned with your current financial situation. Review your fixed expenses, such as electricity bills, water, telephone and internet. Look for cheaper alternatives and negotiate with suppliers to get better conditions. Adopting conscious consumption habits, such as turning off electronic devices when not in use, and reducing shower time can make a big difference to the bills at the end of the month. Organizing the home economy requires discipline and planning, but the long-term benefits are worth the effort. By implementing these daily tips, you can create a healthy financial routine, avoid debt and increase the chances of reaching your financial goals. Start putting some of these strategies into practice today, and see the difference small changes can make on your budget. Also read: Are you saving for your holidays? Tips that can help , Avoid food waste with these 5 tips and Reduce your environmental footprint: 3 changes to do at home
Source: Adobe Stock Author: Redaction Nowadays, financial education has become an essential skill, and it is critical that children learn early on about the value of money and the importance of conscious management. Starting this process doesn’t have to be complicated, and parents can play a crucial role in introducing financial concepts in a playful and accessible way. An effective approach is to integrate financial education into everyday life . Talk about what money is, how it is earned and the importance of saving it can be done naturally. For example, when doing family shopping, parents can explain how they make choices between products , considering price and quality, encouraging children to participate in decision making. Another valuable strategy is to encourage children to save. Offering them a piggy bank or savings account from an early age can help introduce the concept of savings. Parents can create small challenges such as saving to buy a desired toy, which not only teaches about the value of saving, but also about the satisfaction of achieving goals. In addition, it is important to talk about expenses and how to manage a budget. Parents can show children how to plan a small family budget for an event, such as a picnic or a birthday party, including expenses such as food, decor and activities. This practice not only teaches about financial management, but also about responsibility and organization. Children should also be introduced to the concept of investment in a simple way. Explaining how money can grow over time through savings and investments can spark their interest in the financial future. You can use practical examples, such as investing in a small business, selling lemonade or other products, to show how ideas can turn into profit. Finally, parents should promote an open discussion about money in order to encourage children to ask questions and express their opinions on financial issues. This communication helps to demystify money and create a healthy relationship with it from an early age. Investing in children’s financial education is paving the way for a safer and more conscious future. By adopting these simple practices on a daily basis, parents can help their children develop essential skills that will accompany them throughout their lives. With a solid foundation on financial education, children will be better prepared to face the financial challenges of the future. Related: Are you in your 20s? Write down these financial tips
Source: Freepik Author: Redaction The decree-law that stipulates the conditions of the public guarantee in the purchase of first housing, own and permanent, by young people up to 35 years, was published this Wednesday, July 10, in Diário da República, and the measure is expected to advance within 60 days. According to the publication in Diário da República, the document establishes the conditions under which the State can provide personal guarantee to credit institutions with a view to the viability of granting credit to own and permanent housing to young people up to 35 years , fitting to the members of the Government responsible for the areas of finance, housing and youth approve, within a maximum period of 60 days from the entry into force of this Decree-Law, the regulations necessary to the provisions of this Decree-Law . In this way, all young people aged 35 years or less, who buy a house for the first time, will be able to resort to financing up to 100% of housing credit , with the State providing personal guarantee to credit institutions. With this benefit, young people can more easily buy a house, since it is possible to grant credit. According to the document, Banco de Portugal and the Portuguese Association of Banks were heard , stipulating that, in order to access the public guarantee, young people must comply with the requirements determined for this purpose, namely be between 18 and 35 years of age, with tax domicile in Portugal , and have income that does not exceed the 8th tier of the IRS. In addition, in order to be able to benefit from the financing, they cannot own another property that affects the house and the house they acquire cannot exceed the value of 450 thousand euros, being defined as the limit of the guarantee 15% of the transaction value . The Minister of Finance pointed out that the measure was developed jointly with Banco de Portugal, stressing that there is no dispute with Banco de Portugal on the matter, ensuring that Banco de Portugal is involved in the process, having been consultation and coordination with the financial supervisor. Read also: IMT exemption on house purchase will take effect in August
Source: Freepik Author: Redaction The Minister of Finance, Joaquim Miranda Sarmento , indicated this Wednesday, July 10, during the statutory hearing at the Committee on Budget, Finance and Public Administration (COFAP), be optimistic about the growth of the Portuguese economy, growth above 2% this year and next. The numbers we have indicate that, both in 2024 and 2025, we will have a growth of more than 2% in real terms , he said, leaving, however, the opinion that there is still a lot of information until October to incorporate into the model of the projection. The Executive therefore reviews upwards against the initial forecasts entered in the Stability Programme , of 1.5% this year and 1.9% next, in line with the forecast of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the Bank of Portugal (BdP)which also projected 2% growth. In addition, Joaquim Miranda Sarmento pointed out that a budget surplus of 0.2% to 0.3% of GDP is expected. Other economic issues that may interest you: Accelerating the Economy Program will strengthen support for tourism , Government believes that tourism will represent 20% of GDP in 2030 and IMF praises macroprudential measure of Banco de Portugal
Source: Freepik Author: Redaction According to the National Institute of Statistics (INE) in its statistical bulletin, annual inflation fell in June, settling at 2.8%. It is thus a decrease of 0.3 percentage points when compared to the pace of price increases in May, which is mainly explained by the slowdown in hotel prices, which rose in May due to the two concerts given by Taylor Swift in Portugal, compensating for rising fuel prices. Still, as explained by INE, in addition to the slowdown in the catering and hospitality segments, there was a decrease in the annual rate of change in transport to 1.6%, contributing to the decrease in inflation in June . Thus, and in view of the 3.1% increase in the Consumer Price Index (CPI) in June, a base effect was established , as a consequence of the entry into force of Zero VAT in April last year. On the other hand, there was an increase of 9.4% in energy prices, which stood 1.6 percentage points above 7.8% in May. The index of unprocessed food fell to 1.8%, contrary to the forecast of 2% of the rapid estimate provided by the statistical office, which decelerates by 0.7 percentage points compared to the previous month. As regards the underlying inflation rate, which excludes products which are subject to price changes such as energy and unprocessed food, there was a year-on-year change of 2,4 % above the rapid estimate, that pointed to 2.3%. However, it fell 0.3 percentage points from the May rate, corresponding to 2.7%. Other Economics themes: Households in the Eurozone and Portugal are saving more , Economic activity indicator accelerated in April and World Bank projections point to economic stability
Source: Freepik Author: Redaction The Municipal Property Tax (IMI) is, first of all, a mandatory tax in Portugal, paid annually by the owners of rustic and urban buildings, and its value varies according to the ceilings defined by the Municipalities where the properties are located , to which they reverse payments by financing essential public services such as garbage collection, street lighting or infrastructure maintenance. In the case of a tax, IMI is applied on the Tax Asset Value (VPT), which consists of the value assigned by the Tax and Customs Authority (AT) to a particular property, considering factors such as area, location, construction characteristics and state of conservation . Its rate varies between 0.3% and 0.45%, being defined annually by each municipality. But now that you understand what IMI consists of, understand why it is necessary. What is IMI for? IMI is one of the main municipal taxes in Portugal , which contributes to the financing of public services provided by local authorities, and therefore its revenue allows the construction and maintenance of infrastructures, the provision of social services and the promotion of local development. Each municipality has its own rate practiced, which you can consult on the Finance Portal. How is the IMI payment made? The payment of this tax can be executed in various ways, the most common being homebanking, ATM, MBWay, direct debit or through CTT Stores. And be careful, because in order to avoid penalties, it is important to note that the deadlines for the payment of this tax take place every year during the month of April. Before the deadline, a notification is sent to you by the Finance - the so-called settlement statement - with the amount payable and its ATM reference. However, the payment is divided into different maturities, depending on the amount to be paid and one chooses to amortise the total amount or pay it in instalments: • IMI up to 100€: the total payment runs until the last day of May; • IMI between 100€ and 500€: payment can be made in two phases - the 1st in May and the 2nd in November; • IMI above 500 €: payment can be made in three installments, in the months of May, August and November. What is the settlement statement and how to get? The IMI settlement declaration is a document sent annually by AT to property owners, which contains the value of the VPT of the property, its applicable IMI fee and amount payable, considering again that payment dates may vary according to the total. Is it possible to reduce the tax amount? Some taxpayers may have access to exemptions , including people with disabilities, who benefit from full or partial exemption from IMI, depending on the degree of disability; low-income families, applicable in whole or in part according to the income of the aggregate and VPT of the property; ruined properties, which benefit from the total exemption from IMI; and real estate intended for housing, which benefit from the 30% reduction of IMI on the value of the property intended for own and permanent housing. Still, it will also be possible to verify if the VPT is correct, since this is the indicator that serves as the basis for the calculation of IMI, and that is updated by the Finance every 3 years. Therefore, for any of the situations, inquire with the Portal das Finanças and consider that, on an annual basis, is obliged to pay the tax, noting that non-payment can lead to the payment of a fine, the loss of the right to payment by instalments or, in more serious cases, a tax enforcement procedure. Stay informed about other topics like this: What is the IMT and how it is calculated? Discover and Understand what is the Matrix Article of a property
Source: Freepik Author: Redaction As revealed on Monday, July 1, Eurostat, Eurozone households show higher levels of savings, with the rate skyrocketing in the first quarter of the year to 15.3% , and thus reaching the highest level since the second quarter of 2021, with a significant increase of 14.1%. Behind the growth in household savings is the increase in gross disposable income, which increased by 2.1% compared to the previous quarter, surpassing the 0.8% increase in private consumption, and also explaining the increase in the savings rate. In Portugal the dynamics are similar, with data from the National Institute of Statistics (INE) pointing to an increase of 8% in the savings levels of Portuguese households in the first quarter of 2024, which represents an increase of 1.4 percentage points compared to 6,6% of the previous quarter of 2023. And like what happened with the Eurozone aggregates, i n Portugal the levels of savings increased due to the increase in gross disposable income, which according to INE, grew 2,6%, although it is not possible to directly compare the two scenarios due to the difference in the calculation formulas used by both Eurostat and INE. Conversely, according to Eurostat, the rate of investment of European aggregates fell from 9.6% to 9.5% in the first three months of the year, settling at the lowest value since the beginning of 2021. Continue reading: Bank deposit stock reaches record number in May
Source: Freepik Author: Redaction The Economic Acceleration Plan , with more than 60 proposals to foster economic growth in Portugal, was approved this Thursday , July 4, in the Council of Ministers, and with it, new measures that will advance, in particular the new regime for non-habitual residents which, in addition to involving scientists and researchers, will also cover other qualified professions. The ordinance of this measure will be published in Diário da República in the coming weeks, however, the Minister of Finance, Joaquim Miranda Sarmento, has already been able to say that this new regime will operate with a rate of 20% on the income of these non-habitual residents, foreigners or Portuguese immigrants who have not lived in Portugal for at least five years. The previous Government in the State Budget for 2024 (OE2024) created a standard in the Statute of Tax Benefits, we will regulate through ordinance this standard, covering exclusively the income category A and B, which will have a rate of 20% , indicated the Minister of Finance, during the conference where the plan was presented. Thus, according to the explanation provided by the Executive , the regime will apply to non-residents who will reside in Portugal and who have not lived in Portugal in the last five years, without having previously benefited from the regime of non-habitual residents (RNH). Read more topics like this in SUPERCASA Notícias to stay abreast of everything that happens in the country
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