Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa—as well as new members like Iran and the United Arab Emirates—are actively seeking alternatives to the US currency.   BRICS foreign ministers stressed increasing the use of local currencies in trade to lessen dependency on the dollar in a statement released in May 2025.

In January 2025, Sergey Ryabkov, Russia's deputy foreign minister, asserted that a new payment system that aims to sideline the dollar might eventually encompass other developing countries.

Why the BRICS Currency is the Talk of the Global Economy

1. Challenging the US Dollar’s Dominance

The US dollar dominates global trade, with ~90% of forex transactions and most oil trades historically conducted in dollars. BRICS nations aim to reduce this reliance, driven by geopolitical tensions like US sanctions on Russia and China, and the dollar’s use as a tool for economic statecraft.

A BRICS currency, potentially called the "Unit," could be gold-backed or a basket of member currencies (40% gold, 60% BRICS currencies),

offering an alternative for trade and reserves. This push for "de-dollarization" is seen as a way to assert economic independence and mitigate risks from dollar volatility or sanctions.

2. Economic and Geopolitical Implications

BRICS represents ~45% of the world’s population and 35% of global GDP (PPP).

A unified currency could enhance trade efficiency, reduce exchange rate volatility, and boost financial inclusion via blockchain-based digital payments like BRICS Pay, an alternative to SWIFT. Geopolitically, it challenges Western-led financial systems, promoting a multipolar world order.

However, critics argue it risks increasing dependence on China’s yuan, given China’s economic weight, which could alienate members like India.

BRICS currency could weaken the dollar’s value, impact US sanctions’ effectiveness, and raise costs for American households if demand for dollars drops. Conversely, it could streamline trade for BRICS nations and reduce their exposure to US monetary policy.

Yet, experts like South Africa’s central bank governor argue a full currency union requires improbable steps like a shared central bank.

The debate reflects broader shifts toward currency optionality as a matter of economic security

Five ways Must-Know  About the BRICS Currency :

1. No Confirmed BRICS Currency Release Date—Yet

While speculation about a BRICS currency launch date has fueled excitement, no official timeline exists. Discussions began as early as the 2022 BRICS Summit, where leaders like Vladimir Putin hinted at a new global reserve currency. Sources suggest a potential launch by 2027, with updates expected at the 2025 BRICS Summit in Brazil.

For now, the bloc is focusing on reducing reliance on the US dollar through local currency trading and systems like BRICS Pay. Stay tuned for official announcements to avoid missing key updates.

2. A Gold-Backed Currency Could Shake the Dollar’s Throne

The proposed BRICS currency, potentially called the “Unit,” may be backed by gold or a basket of commodities, unlike the fiat-based US dollar. This move could appeal to countries like China and Russia, major gold producers, aiming to counter US sanctions and dollar volatility.

For traders in countries like India or South Africa, a gold-backed currency could stabilize trade costs but may also increase gold prices globally, impacting your investments.

3. De-Dollarization is Already Happening

The BRICS nations are actively reducing dollar dependency. In 2024, 20% of oil trades were settled in non-US dollar currencies, a significant shift from near-100% dollar dominance.

The BRICS Pay system and blockchain-based settlements are paving the way for a future currency. For businesses in BRICS countries, this means cheaper cross-border transactions, potentially saving billions annually, as estimated for India alone.

4. Geopolitical Challenges Could Delay the Launch

Creating a unified currency is no small feat. Economic disparities, political rivalries (like India-China tensions), and trade imbalances pose hurdles.

South Africa’s central bank governor noted that a BRICS currency requires a banking union and macroeconomic alignment, which could take years. If you’re a policymaker or investor, these complexities mean the BRICS currency announcement may be more gradual than expected.

5. The US Dollar’s Dominance Isn’t Vanishing Anytime Soon

Despite the hype, the US dollar remains the world’s primary reserve currency, dominating 90% of forex transactions.

A 2024 Atlantic Council study suggests the dollar’s role is secure in the near term. For those worried about their dollar-based savings or investments, the BRICS currency may not immediately disrupt your financial plans but could signal a shift toward a multipolar economy

Ever wonder how Wall Street pros make bank without touching stocks or bonds? Private credit ETFs are the new hot ticket in town, promising juicy returns that make your savings account look like pocket change. But before you jump in, let’s break down what these funds are, how they work, and whether they’re worth the hype for a New Yorker like you, hustling to grow your cash in a crazy market.

What Is Private Credit, Anyway?

Picture this: you’re a small business owner in Brooklyn, and the bank’s giving you the cold shoulder on a loan. Enter private credit—loans from non-bank lenders like hedge funds or investment firms that step in where banks won’t. These loans, often to private companies, pack higher interest rates, which means bigger returns for investors. Private credit ETFs, like the SPDR SSGA Apollo IG Public & Private Credit ETF (PRIV), bundle these loans into a tradable fund, letting regular Joes like us get a piece of the action without needing a million bucks or a fancy broker.

But here’s the catch: private credit ain’t your grandma’s Treasury bond. It’s less regulated, and the risks can hit harder than a subway delay during rush hour. So, why’s everyone talking about it? Let’s dive into the case of private credit ETFs and see if they’re a goldmine or a trap.

Case Study: Joe from Queens Dives into Private Credit ETFs

Background: Joe’s a 35-year-old IT guy from Flushing, Queens, with $10,000 saved up from grinding overtime. He’s no Wall Street shark but knows stocks and bonds alone won’t cut it for his dream of retiring early. After scrolling X and hearing about private credit ETFs, he’s curious if they’re his ticket to bigger returns.

The Challenge: Joe’s got a Roth IRA and a Robinhood account, but he’s never touched alternative investments. He’s worried about losing his hard-earned cash but loves the idea of 7–10% annual returns compared to the 4% his savings account’s coughing up. Plus, he’s heard private credit’s less tied to stock market swings—perfect for a guy who’s seen his 401(k) tank during market crashes.

The Solution: Exploring Private Credit ETFsJoe starts researching on platforms like NerdWallet and stumbles across private credit ETFs like PRIV and the Virtus Private Credit Strategy ETF (VPC). These funds invest in a mix of public and private debt, focusing on investment-grade loans or business development companies (BDCs) that lend to smaller firms. He learns private credit returns have historically outpaced bonds, with some ETFs targeting 8–12% yields, thanks to higher interest rates on private loans.

Here’s what Joe finds out about how to invest in private credit ETFs:

• Open a Brokerage Account: Joe’s already got one with Fidelity, but he checks out brokers like J.P. Morgan or Robinhood for commission-free ETF trades. Most let you buy ETFs like stocks, using their ticker (e.g., PRIV or VPC).
• Research Fund Details: Joe digs into expense ratios (PRIV’s is around 0.75%) and liquidity risks. Private credit’s less liquid than stocks, meaning selling fast during a downturn could be tricky. He notes the SEC flagged PRIV for liquidity concerns, which makes him cautious.
• Diversify, Don’t Dump: Experts on NerdWallet warn not to go all-in. Joe decides to allocate 10% of his portfolio to private credit ETFs, keeping the rest in S&P 500 ETFs and bonds to spread the risk.
• Check Tax Implications: Private credit ETFs often pay dividends, which are taxed as ordinary income in the U.S. Joe’s Roth IRA shields him from taxes, making it a smart choice for these funds.

The Outcome: Joe invests $2,000 in PRIV through his Roth IRA in March 2025. By June, he’s seeing monthly dividends roll in, averaging a 9% annualized yield. But when the market dips, PRIV’s price wobbles more than his S&P 500 ETF, reminding him of the liquidity risks. Still, the steady income feels like a win, and he’s hooked on learning more about private credit stocks and funds

What’s a Private Credit Fund, and Is It the Same as an ETF?

Not quite. A private credit fund, like Blackstone’s BCRED, is typically a closed-end fund or business development company (BDC) for accredited investors with big bucks—think $50,000 minimums. They’re less liquid, with withdrawals limited to quarterly windows. Private credit ETFs, on the other hand, trade daily on exchanges, making them accessible to anyone with a brokerage account. ETFs like VPC or PCMM offer lower minimums and more flexibility but might carry higher volatility due to their mix of public and private debt.

Risks and Rewards: Should You Bet on Private Credit ETFs?

Rewards:

• High Returns: Private credit ETFs often aim for 7–12% annual yields, crushing most bonds.
• Diversification: Less tied to stock market ups and downs, they can stabilize your portfolio.
• Accessibility: No need to be a millionaire—buy in with as little as one share.

Risks:

• Liquidity Issues: Private credit’s hard to sell quickly, which can tank ETF prices if lots of investors bail.
• Less Regulation: Unlike bonds, private credit’s a Wild West, with less oversight and more risk of default.
• Market Newbie: The industry’s young, and many managers haven’t weathered a major downturn.

When investors look for the best S&P 500 ETF to buy, they’re often searching for a fund that combines low fees, strong long-term performance, and reliable exposure to the U.S. stock market. While many ETFs track the S&P 500, not all are created equal.

Some offer ultra-low expense ratios, others have higher trading volumes or better tax efficiency. Choosing the best S&P 500 ETF depends on your investment goals, whether you're focused on minimizing costs, maximizing returns, or holding for the long term.

Why Invest in an S&P 500 ETF?

Before jumping into the list, here’s why S&P 500 ETFs remain a popular choice:

Diversification: You own a tiny piece of 500 large US companies across all major sectors , Passive Investing: ETFs track the S&P 500 index, requiring no active management.

Cost Efficiency: Many S&P 500 ETFs come with ultra-low fees compared to mutual funds , Liquidity: Highly traded ETFs make buying and selling easy at fair prices.

5 Best S&P 500 ETFs to Buy in 2025 (Lowest Expense Ratio & More)

1. SPDR S&P 500 ETF Trust (SPY)

Expense Ratio: 0.09% , overview: The oldest and most liquid S&P 500 ETF. SPY is a favorite among traders because of its massive daily volume.

Why Buy: If you want easy trading access, tight bid-ask spreads, and a trusted name, SPY is a solid pick ,  Best for  Traders and investors prioritizing liquidity and market accessibility.

2. iShares Core S&P 500 ETF (IVV)

Expense Ratio: 0.03% ,  overview: IVV offers the lowest expense ratio among the big three S&P 500 ETFs, making it very cost-efficient.

Why Buy: If you want to hold for the long term and reduce fees eating into your returns, IVV is excellent and best for: Long-term buy-and-hold investors who prioritize low fees.

3. Vanguard S&P 500 ETF (VOO)

Expense Ratio: 0.03% , overview: VOO is Vanguard’s flagship S&P 500 ETF, known for its investor-friendly approach and low cost.

Why Buy: Similar to IVV, it has an ultra-low fee, with a strong reputation for tracking the index closely , best for: Cost-conscious investors looking for a trusted, widely accessible ETF.

4. Schwab U.S. Large-Cap ETF (SCHX)

Expense Ratio: 0.03% , overview: While not strictly an S&P 500 ETF, SCHX tracks the Dow Jones U.S. Large-Cap Total Stock Market Index, very similar to S&P 500.

Why Buy: For investors looking for an alternative with equally low fees and broad exposure ,  best for: Investors interested in broad large-cap exposure at minimal cost.

5. Invesco S&P 500 Equal Weight ETF (RSP)

Expense Ratio: 0.20% , overview: RSP weights all S&P 500 companies equally rather than by market cap, offering a unique risk/reward profile.

Why Buy: For those wanting diversification beyond market cap weighting, potentially capturing more upside from mid-sized companies , best for: Investors seeking a different approach within the S&P 500 space.

What’s the Cheapest S&P 500 ETF to Buy?

Both IVV and VOO come with an industry-leading expense ratio of just 0.03% — meaning you pay only $3 annually for every $10,000 invested. This ultra-low fee is hard to beat and has a huge impact on long-term returns.

If you want to minimize costs, these two ETFs top the list.

Which S&P 500 ETF is the Best for You?

Choosing the best S&P 500 ETF depends on your needs:

Tips Before Buying an S&P 500 ETF

• Check your brokerage: Not all brokers offer every ETF, and some may charge commissions.
• Consider your currency: If you trade outside the US, think about currency risk and trading hours.
• Review your investment goals: ETFs suit different strategies, from retirement to short-term speculation.
• Understand tax implications: Some ETFs have tax advantages depending on your country.

Final Takeaway: Start Smart, Invest Low-Cost

The best S&P 500 ETF to buy in 2025 often boils down to two key factors: cost and liquidity. The lowest expense ratio S&P 500 ETFs like IVV and VOO give you the most bang for your buck long term, while SPY’s unmatched liquidity suits active traders.

If you want to reduce fees, improve diversification, and own a piece of America’s largest companies, pick an S&P 500 ETF that fits your trading style and budget. Start investing today and let your money work hard for you with one of these top ETFs.

if you’ve ever wondered how to invest in stocks,

if you've caught yourself Googling things like “how to get into stocks” or “what are the best stocks to invest in right now?”—

you’re not alone. Stock trading has become more accessible than ever, and even beginners can start building wealth with just a smartphone and some guidance.

Whether you're interested in shares as a way to grow your savings or you’re dreaming of quitting your 9-to-5 thanks to smart investments,

this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about getting started with the stock market.

Why Make Stock Investments?

One of the most well-liked—and effective—methods to gradually increase money is through stocks. Buying stock entitles you to a portion of the business.

Your investment may increase in value as that business expands and makes money.

Still not sure? People like you are entering the market for the following reasons:

• Higher Returns than Bonds and Savings Accounts: Over time, stocks have generally outperformed safer investments like bonds or traditional savings accounts, helping your money grow faster.
• Dividends Provide Passive Income: Some companies pay a portion of their profits back to shareholders in the form of dividends, creating a steady income stream.
• Ownership of Businesses You Support: Holding stock means owning part of a company, giving you a voice as a shareholder and a stake in its success.
• Long-Term Protection Against Inflation: Stocks tend to appreciate faster than inflation, preserving your purchasing power over the years.
• Opportunity to Benefit from Innovation and Growth: By investing in sectors like technology, renewable energy, or healthcare, you can participate in the growth of cutting-edge industries shaping the future.

How to Invest in Stocks in 6 Steps

  Set Financial Goals:

Are you investing for retirement, a new car, or a dream vacation?

Your goals will shape your investment strategy, risk tolerance, and time horizon.

 Research the Market:

Look for the best stocks to invest in based on trends, performance, and your interests.

For example, tech giants like Apple or emerging AI companies could be interesting shares to explore in 2025. Don’t forget to study fundamentals such as revenue growth, profitability, and competitive advantages.

 Choose a Brokerage:

Open an account with a reputable broker.

Compare fees, user experience, educational resources, and customer support. Many platforms now offer commission-

free trades and intuitive mobile apps, perfect for beginners.

Start Small:

Begin with a small investment to test the waters.

Many platforms allow fractional shares, so you can own part of a stock even with $10, reducing barriers to entry.

Diversify:

Spread your money across different industries to minimize risk.

Think tech, healthcare, renewable energy, consumer goods, and financials.

Diversification helps protect your portfolio if one sector faces downturns.

Stay Informed:

Follow market news, company earnings reports, and economic trends to make informed decisions. Subscribe to trusted financial newsletters, listen to podcasts, or use stock tracking apps to keep your finger on the pulse.

Understanding Key Stock Market Concepts

Investing in stocks involves purchasing shares of ownership in publicly traded companies to potentially earn returns through price appreciation or dividends.

1. Research and Selection: Investors analyze companies based on financial health, performance metrics (e.g., price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio, earnings growth, debt levels), and market trends to choose stocks that align with their goals.
2. Risk and Reward: Stocks offer potential for high returns but come with risks due to market volatility, economic shifts, or company-specific issues.
3. Costs and Fees: Transactions may involve brokerage fees, commissions, or taxes. Low-cost platforms and ETFs (exchange-traded funds) can help reduce expenses and simplify investing.
4. Investment Strategies: Common approaches include long-term investing (buy-and-hold), dividend investing, growth investing, value investing, or even more active methods like day trading, each suiting different risk tolerances and time horizons.
5. Monitoring and Management: Investors track portfolio performance, market conditions, and company updates to adjust holdings as needed—rebalancing helps keep your portfolio aligned with your goals.
6. Tools and Resources: Use stock screeners, financial news apps, earnings calendars, and educational content to empower your decision-making.

Best Stocks for Beginners

Choosing stocks can be a daunting task, particularly for novices. After all, the major U.S.

exchanges list thousands of stocks. Although there are many complex tactics and methods involved in stock investing,

some of the most prosperous investors have only followed the fundamentals of the stock market.

Warren Buffett famously stated that the best investment most Americans can make is a cheap S&P 500 ETF.

This usually involves using funds for the majority of your portfolio and selecting individual stocks only if you think the firm has the ability to expand over the long run.

The S&P 500 index includes approximately 500 of the biggest publicly traded firms in the United States, representing a broad cross-section of industries.

Over the past 50 years, it has returned about 10% annually on average, making it a strong foundational investment.

Additional tips for beginners:

• Consider Dividend Stocks: Companies with a history of steady dividends can provide regular income and tend to be less volatile.
• Look for Blue-Chip Stocks: Large, established companies like Microsoft, Coca-Cola, or Johnson & Johnson often have stable earnings and strong market positions.
• Explore ETFs: Exchange-Traded Funds allow you to buy a basket of stocks in one trade, providing instant diversification.
• Avoid ‘Hot Tips’: Focus on solid research rather than chasing trendy or speculative stocks.
• Keep Emotions in Check: The stock market fluctuates. Patience and discipline often outperform impulsive decisions.

Final Thoughts

Getting started in stock investing is easier than ever, but it requires knowledge, patience, and a clear plan.

By setting your goals, educating yourself, starting small, and diversifying, you can build a portfolio that grows over time. Remember, investing is a marathon, not a sprint.

The most successful investors stay disciplined through market ups and downs, continually learning and adapting their strategies.

Top Billionaires: Who Leads in 2025?

In a world obsessed with wealth, power, and influence, one question consistently dominates search engines: Who is the richest person in the world? Whether you're a curious onlooker, an aspiring entrepreneur, or someone researching global financial trends, the quest to uncover the most affluent individual sparks intrigue. In this article, we dive deep into the 2025 billionaire landscape, exploring who is the richest person in the world 2025, how they amassed their fortune, and what this means for you. From jaw-dropping net worths to the industries driving their wealth, this guide is your one-stop resource for everything you need to know about the world’s richest individuals.

Who Is the Richest Person in the World in 2025?

Managing money can feel overwhelming — bills, groceries, rent, subscriptions… the list never ends. But what if you could see all your income and expenses clearly laid out in one place? That’s exactly what a budget template offers: a simple, powerful way to take control of your finances.

In this article, you’ll learn how to use a monthly budget planner effectively, why it matters, and how to align your spending with proven budgeting rules like the 50/30/20 method. Whether you’re new to budgeting or just looking for smarter ways to manage your cash flow, this guide has you covered.

What Is a Budget Planner?

A budget planner is a tool often in the form of a spreadsheet or printable template—that helps you organize your income and expenses. It allows you to see where your money is going each month, identify spending patterns, and plan for future financial goals. A good budget planner includes categories like housing, utilities, groceries, transportation, entertainment, and savings, giving you a clear overview of your financial health.

How to Use a Budget Sheet?

Using a budget spreadsheet or template is easier than you might think. Here’s a simple step-by-step approach:

• List Your Income Sources: Start by entering all your monthly income, including salary, freelance work, or passive income.
• Create a Monthly Expenses List: Break down your expenses into fixed (rent, loan payments) and variable (dining out, shopping) categories.
• Enter Your Expenses: Fill in the amounts you spend or plan to spend in each category.
• Track and Update Regularly: As the month progresses, update your budget sheet with actual expenses to monitor your spending.
• Analyze and Adjust: At the end of the month, review your budget to see where you can cut back or save more.

Using a budgeting template helps you avoid overspending and ensures you’re prepared for bills and unexpected costs.

Summary: Take Charge of Your Finances with a Budget Template

A budget template is an essential tool for anyone looking to manage their money better. Whether you’re new to budgeting or want a more organized approach, using a budget planner and a detailed monthly expenses list can make all the difference. By tracking your income and expenses in a budget spreadsheet, you gain insight into your spending habits and can make smarter financial decisions. Start using a budgeting template today to build a stronger, more secure financial future.

What Is a UGMA/UTMA Account?

UGMA (Uniform Gifts to Minors Act) and UTMA (Uniform Transfers to Minors Act) accounts are custodial investment accounts designed to help parents, grandparents, or guardians save and invest for a minor. These accounts allow you to transfer assets , think cash, stocks, or even real estate , into an account that legally belongs to the child but is managed by an adult until the child reaches the age of majority (typically 18 to 25, depending on your state).Why are these accounts so popular? They’re a flexible, relatively simple alternative to trusts or 529 plans, offering unique advantages for families who want to give their kids a financial head start. But they’re not without drawbacks, and choosing between a UGMA account and a UTMA account requires understanding their nuances.

UGMA vs. UTMA: What’s the Difference?

UGMA Account: The Classic Choice

• What it is: A UGMA account, governed by the Uniform Gifts to Minors Act, allows you to gift financial assets like cash, stocks, bonds, or mutual funds to a minor.
• Availability: Available in all 50 U.S. states, making it a universal option.
• Age of majority: Typically, the child gains control at 18, though this varies by state.
• Limitations: Restricted to financial assets only—no physical assets like real estate or jewelry.

UTMA Account: The Flexible Upgrade

• What it is: A UTMA account, under the Uniform Transfers to Minors Act, expands on UGMA by allowing both financial and physical assets, such as real estate, fine art, or patents.
• Availability: Available in most states, except South Carolina and Vermont.
• Age of majority: Often extends to 21 or even 25, depending on state laws, giving assets more time to grow.
• Advantages: Greater flexibility in asset types, ideal for families with diverse investment portfolios.

Pro Tip: Check your state’s laws to confirm which account is available and when the child gains control. For example, in Connecticut, both accounts transfer at 21, while in Massachusetts, UGMA accounts transfer at 18 and UTMA at 21.

Why Choose UGMA or UTMA Accounts? Benefits That Pack a Punch

These custodial accounts are a powerful tool for parents who want to invest in their child’s future without the complexity of setting up a trust. Here’s why UGMA and UTMA accounts are worth considering:

No contribution limits: Unlike 529 plans, you can contribute as much as you want, though gifts above $18,000 per person ($36,000 for couples) in 2024 may trigger gift tax considerations.

Tax advantages: The first $1,300 of earnings in 2024 is tax-free, the next $1,300 is taxed at the child’s lower rate, and only earnings above $2,600 are taxed at the parent’s rate.

Flexibility: Funds can be used for any purpose benefiting the child—not just college—such as summer camps, extracurriculars, or even a future business venture.

Easy to set up: Open a UGMA or UTMA account through major U.S. banks or brokerages like E*TRADE or Fidelity with minimal fees and no minimum deposits.

Investment growth: With average market returns of 6-7%, these accounts can grow significantly over time, outpacing traditional savings accounts.

Image Idea: Include a chart comparing the growth of $10,000 in a UGMA/UTMA account at 6% annual return versus a standard savings account over 18 years.

The Catch: Drawbacks You Can’t Ignore

Before you rush to open a UGMA or UTMA account, consider these potential pitfalls:

Irrevocable contributions: Once you transfer assets, they belong to the child. No take-backs

Financial aid impact: These accounts are considered the child’s assets, reducing financial aid eligibility by 20% of the account’s value, compared to 5.64% for parent-owned 529 plans.

Loss of control: When the child reaches the age of majority, they can spend the funds however they choose—whether that’s college tuition or, yes, a flashy new car.

Taxable earnings: Unlike 529 plans, there’s no tax-free growth for education expenses, and earnings above $2,600 are taxed at the parent’s rate.

User Concern: If you’re worried about your child’s money management skills, a 529 plan or trust might offer more control. Consult a financial advisor to align your choice with your family’s goals.

UGMA/UTMA vs. 529 Plans: Which Is Better for You?

Many parents wonder how UGMA and UTMA accounts stack up against 529 college savings plans. Here’s a quick comparison to guide your decision:

How to Set Up a UGMA or UTMA Account: A Step-by-Step Guide