May
30
2024

Guide to Fractional Art Investing

By | Growing Wealth, invest, Investing | Comments Off on Guide to Fractional Art Investing

Fractional art investing allows individual investors to purchase shares of higher-priced artworks, and (assuming the art appreciates) to realize a profit when the work is sold.

The cost of owning and maintaining individual works of art can be prohibitive for many people, especially retail investors. Fractional art investing has evolved as an accessible alternative to owning physical art, which can entail significant expense, management, and maintenance issues.

Investing in art is considered a form of alternative investing, which means that art, and fractional art investments, don’t typically move in sync with conventional asset classes like stocks and bonds. While art assets may offer growth opportunities, and the potential for portfolio diversification, they also come with certain risks.

What Is Fractional Art Investing?

As an increasing number of investors have begun to explore alternative asset classes, collectible art has emerged as a potential growth area.

Just as savvy stock market investors seek out top companies to invest in, many art investors likewise want to put their money into so-called blue-chip art: well-known works by established artists that may be more likely to appreciate in value. In addition, established but less well-known artists — like so-called growth stocks — are also attracting interest, based on their potential to gain value.

Given that it’s expensive to purchase and own works of art, fractional art investing — like investing in fractional shares of stock — allows investors to own shares of existing works, spread some of the investing risk across a range of pieces, and get a proportional share of any gains when the art is sold (although there are no guarantees that the art will appreciate).

Because art isn’t considered one of the traditional asset classes — including stocks, bonds, and cash — it can also offer investors diversification.

Art Market Growth

The global art market suffered during the pandemic but has since recovered to pre-pandemic levels, with sales of about $65 billion in 2023, according to the Art Basel-UBS Art Market Report 2024. (There has been a similar surge of interest in other valuable types of collectibles.)

Nonetheless, 2023 saw a 4% dip in overall sales from the previous year, owing to the high interest-rate climate, inflation, and geo-political issues. But transaction volume did increase by 4% from 2022 to 2023.

In addition, there is growing interest in fractional shares as an easier way to invest in art. According to ArtTactic, an art market research company, more than $625 million in fractional art shares were sold between 2017 and 2022. Because of the relatively lower price point, and the focus on returns (not owning art, per se), fractional art investing is attracting younger buyers, who may not be as affluent, but who are contributing to the liquidity of the art market.

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Fractional Art Explained

Fractional art investors don’t hold onto the art; they may never see it. Rather, a company that specializes in offering fractional art investments buys and maintains the actual pieces (say, a painting by Pablo Picasso or a sculpture by Fernando Botero), and then issues shares of each work to investors.

Art can be securitized in a couple of different ways, and as technology evolves more options are likely to emerge. In some cases the art is treated like a company, registered with the SEC, and the shares are sold to investors. In other cases a few works might comprise a fund that investors can buy shares of, similar to a mutual fund (which holds many companies). In some cases shares are managed using smart contracts on a blockchain.

Whereas the purchase price of a painting might be in the millions, investors could buy shares of a painting for, say, $50 per share. Prices vary widely, depending on the platform, and there may be high investment minimums (e.g. $3,000 and higher)

Share prices also include a fee for the maintenance and storage of the art, which can be relatively high, even when divided proportionally among shareholders. Similar to investing fees, even small amounts can add up over time.

How to Invest in Fractional Art: 3 Steps

Fractional art investing platforms may offer some liquidity in the form of on-platform trading. But generally it’s difficult to trade fractional shares of art. At the moment, fractional ownership is more of a long game, with lock-up periods that can last as long as a few years or a decade. Here’s how to start:

Step 1: Join a Platform

The first step is to find a platform that supports fractional art shares, and become familiar with its offerings.

Once you feel comfortable that a certain platform has the type of art you’d be interested in, get to know its terms (the investment minimum, cost per share, the fees involved, length of commitment) and sign up.

Step 2: Purchase Shares of Art

Decide which artwork or works you want to invest in. Be sure to understand the terms, and how long your money will remain invested.

It’s important to know that there’s no guarantee that the piece(s) you pick will appreciate in value.

Step 3: Wait or Trade

Depending on the platform, you may be able to trade your shares on an on-platform secondary market of sorts. In some cases, investors could potentially see dividend distributions before the end of their investing term. Otherwise, all you need to do is wait for your investment to be sold and take it from there.

Remember, the value of art can fluctuate considerably over time, so there’s no certainty that you’ll see your hoped-for return.

Pros and Cons of Fractional Art Investing

Fractional art ownership has emerged as a legitimate investing strategy, but because art is an alternative investment, there are a number of risks that investors must keep in mind, so it’s important to consider the pros and cons of investing in art.

Pros

Investing in fractional shares of art can be an affordable way to participate in the art market.

Art is considered an alternative investment, so investing in fractional shares also offers the potential for diversification.

Some pieces of art have been known to appreciate, especially if they’re by well-established artists. But in some cases works by less well-known and/or contemporary artists may appreciate as well.

Cons

Investing in art, whether through owning an artwork outright or through fractional shares, can be risky. The value of a piece of art is difficult to establish, and tends to fluctuate based on trends and tastes, not intrinsic or fundamental value.

As a result, an investment that looks promising now may not turn out to be profitable in the long term.

In addition, investing in fractional shares requires most investors to hold their investment for a period of years before the underlying work is sold. This means your capital is locked up, and may or may not see a return.

Fractional Art vs. Buying Art Yourself

Unless you have the resources to purchase, insure, and maintain a work of art yourself, buying fractional shares may be the best way to go. Owning physical art is a commitment, and can be quite expensive, putting aside the purchase price itself.

It’s true that art investing can be risky, but fractional shares may require less capital, which lessens the risk factor (although the risk of loss is always possible).

The Takeaway

The cost of owning individual works of art is out of reach for many investors. Fractional art investing is emerging as an accessible, and sometimes profitable option. Investors get to “own” part of a masterpiece, or an emerging artist’s work, without the headache of storing and maintaining it.

That said, investing in art is a type of alternative investment. While non-traditional assets may offer growth opportunities and the potential for portfolio diversification, they can also come with certain risks, such as market volatility, a lack of transparency, and little to no regulation in some cases.

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Invest in alts to take your portfolio beyond stocks and bonds.

FAQ

Is fractional art a good investment?

Buying fractional shares of art can be a good investment, but it’s difficult to predict. The art market is notoriously volatile, and knowing whether a piece of art will gain value depends on trends over time. Like any type of alternative investment, the art market isn’t transparent or heavily regulated.

How does fractional art work?

As it sounds, investors can purchase a percentage of a given work of art, typically via a platform that specializes in fractional art investing. Buying fractional shares may be inexpensive, but there can be fees and investment minimums to consider as well.

In addition, your investment is often held for a period of years, until the work is sold. At that time, if there is a gain, it would be shared (minus fees) proportionally with investors.

Is Investing in art profitable?

There’s no way to predict for certain whether investing in art (or commodities or real estate or any type of investment) will be profitable. It depends on the investment you choose and what happens in the market by the time it’s sold.

Photo credit: iStock/South_agency

INVESTMENTS ARE NOT FDIC INSURED • ARE NOT BANK GUARANTEED • MAY LOSE VALUE

SoFi Invest is a trade name used by SoFi Wealth LLC and SoFi Securities LLC offering investment products and services. Robo investing and advisory services are provided by SoFi Wealth LLC, an SEC-registered investment adviser. Brokerage and self-directed investing products offered through SoFi Securities LLC, Member FINRA/SIPC.

For disclosures on SoFi Invest platforms visit SoFi.com/legal. For a full listing of the fees associated with Sofi Invest please view our fee schedule.

An investor should consider the investment objectives, risks, charges, and expenses of the Fund carefully before investing. This and other important information are contained in the Fund’s prospectus. For a current prospectus, please click the Prospectus link on the Fund’s respective page. The prospectus should be read carefully prior to investing.
Alternative investments, including funds that invest in alternative investments, are risky and may not be suitable for all investors. Alternative investments often employ leveraging and other speculative practices that increase an investor's risk of loss to include complete loss of investment, often charge high fees, and can be highly illiquid and volatile. Alternative investments may lack diversification, involve complex tax structures and have delays in reporting important tax information. Registered and unregistered alternative investments are not subject to the same regulatory requirements as mutual funds.
Please note that Interval Funds are illiquid instruments, hence the ability to trade on your timeline may be restricted. Investors should review the fee schedule for Interval Funds via the prospectus.

Investment Risk: Diversification can help reduce some investment risk. It cannot guarantee profit, or fully protect in a down market.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

Disclaimer: The projections or other information regarding the likelihood of various investment outcomes are hypothetical in nature, do not reflect actual investment results, and are not guarantees of future results.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

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May
30
2024

Is Investing in Art a Good Idea?

By | Growing Wealth, invest, Investing | Comments Off on Is Investing in Art a Good Idea?

Investing in art can be a good idea, but there are a number of options and factors to take into account, such as: the type of art investment you might choose (i.e. art funds vs. individual works of art), the art market climate, your familiarity with artists and trends in the art world, and more.

Generally speaking, art is considered an alternative investment. The art market does not move in sync with traditional stock and bond markets, and therefore owning art in some capacity can provide portfolio diversification. But like any alternative asset, investing in art also comes with risks.

The art market is highly illiquid, art itself is not well regulated, collectors’ tastes are fickle — and thus what determines the value of certain works of art can be harder to predict than, say, shares of stock. So while investing in art could be a smart move, it requires careful research and a deep understanding of this asset class.

How Big Is the Art Market?

Most people are familiar with the high-priced sales of some pieces of art. Works by well-known and historically revered artists can sell for millions — as can contemporary works by artists who are increasingly popular. But despite a few big headliners, the art market is fairly small.

According to a 2023 industry report, global art sales increased by a modest 3%, to $67.8 billion in 2022. Sales were more robust in the United States in 2022, with 8% growth to $30.2 billion year over year. The U.S. is the world’s largest art market, with the U.K. and China being second and third largest.

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Is Art a Good Investment?

Whether art is a good investment to a large degree depends partly on the work of art. For example, just as there are blue-chip stocks, there are blue-chip artworks that typically command higher prices and offer the potential for steady appreciation (although given the volatility of the art market, there are no guarantees).

But investing wisely in art also depends on the investor, and the vehicles they choose. For example, investing in individual art — similar to investing in individual stocks — requires a deep familiarity with that product and its market, as well as understanding the risks involved.

While you can invest in individual works of art, the value of any piece of art depends on its rarity, whether the artist is in demand, the historical and cultural significance of the work, as well as trends and market conditions.

However, these days investors can also choose to invest in art through art-related funds (similar to mutual funds), and fractional shares of art, which is analogous to investing in fractional shares of stock.

It’s also important for would-be investors to understand the role of collectors.

Art Collectors vs. Art Investors

The difference between art collectors and art investors is important to grasp. Most types of asset classes attract investors alone (with some exceptions, e.g. collectibles). Typically you don’t hear about people collecting stocks or mutual funds, for example.

In the case of the art market, however, collectors can play a role in art market trends as well as valuations. While investors, particularly high net-worth investors, may also influence sales, many collectors are long-time participants in the art market with years of familiarity with the ins and outs of many sectors, artists, dealers, galleries, domestic and international art fairs, and more.

Collectors may be steeped in a certain era or style (e.g. medieval religious statuary or Impressionist paintings), and committed to owning works long-term — for decades, or even generations.

By contrast, art investors may aim to acquire works that will gain value in a relatively short period (i.e. within a few years). This is where different types of art investment vehicles can come into play.

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What Makes a Good Art Investment?

Investing in art requires a certain mindset, and doing your due diligence to size up what constitutes the best opportunities for you, depending on your goals. It’s also important to understand some of the newer investment vehicles.

Individual Works

Investing in individual works requires knowledge of the artist, their current status (e.g. are they in demand or have they fallen out of favor?), the relevance or importance of a given work, and a sense of whether it’s overvalued or undervalued.

The risks of choosing individual works include the possibility of buying a fraudulent piece, the cost of owning and maintaining the work (including storage and insurance), and the uncertainty of knowing whether any given work will hold its value.

Buying individual works can also come with added charges, similar to investment fees (e.g. commissions and other costs). And given the fragility of most art, there is also the risk of physical damage or total loss.

Fractional Shares of Art

Owing to the high cost of purchasing and owning blue-chip works of art, it’s possible to buy fractional shares of art. This option is relatively new, but fractional shares of art are available on a growing number of platforms.

There are various systems for buying fractional art shares. One common way it can work: Investors purchase fractional shares of a work by a specific artist. The platform handles the maintenance and storage of the art, which is held for a period of time and then sold, ideally for a profit. If the sale is profitable, investors get a percentage of the gain, net of fees, commensurate with the percentage of the work they own.

The risk of buying fractional shares of art is that, as with any investment, there are no guarantees of a return. In addition, this is a financial strategy — fractional owners never have the pleasure of actually possessing the work.

Art Funds

Similar to traditional mutual funds and ETFs, an art fund is a type of pooled investment fund. But unlike conventional funds, art funds tend to be a long-term proposition. Art funds are structured typically as closed-end funds, but with a twist: investors typically contribute their capital over a period of three to five years, often with no returns for another specified time period (terms vary).

These funds are highly illiquid, and (in addition to the unpredictability of the art market itself) there are substantial risks to locking up your capital for what could be years, for an unspecified return upon redemption.

Risk Tolerance

Individual investors interested in exploring this type of alternative investment need to consider many factors, especially their stomach for risk. While all investments come with some degree of risk, the spectrum is wide when it comes to art, and there are many unknowns.

Perhaps the biggest factor is the capriciousness of the art world as a whole. For a couple of years, digital art, especially non-fungible tokens (NFTs), spiked in popularity and many people sold digital art at a profit — only to see demand plunge, taking prices along with it.

It’s a cautionary tale. Yet there is always the potential for a rebound, if digital art regains its appeal, or “antique” NFTs become a thing.

Investing in art also includes risk factors specific to owning fragile physical items, as well as the risk of total loss of capital if the investment you choose falls out of favor, or turns out to be a fake — or if a given fund manager makes a bad call.

Recommended: What Every Investor Should Know About Risk

Pros and Cons of Investing in Art

Taking all of the above into consideration, it’s important to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of investing in art.

Advantages

Art offers the potential for substantial returns.

There are many new opportunities for investing in art; would-be investors can consider art funds, fractional shares of art, and more.

Investing in art may offer portfolio diversification.

Some countries may offer tax breaks on art sales.

If you enjoy art and the art world, this type of investing can offer the potential for fun, travel, and aesthetic gratification.

Disadvantages

The art world is volatile and there is no way to know for sure what a given artist or work may be worth now or in years to come.

It’s difficult to authenticate works of art, and the risk of forgery is high.

Investing in art-related funds, stocks, or fractional shares are still relatively new types of instruments, and terms (fees, redemptions, illiquidity) may not be favorable.

Many types of physical artworks can be damaged or destroyed.

The current tax treatment of art gains in the United States is higher than long-term capital gains rates.

Pros

 Cons
Potential for gains Risk of losing money owing to art market volatility
New ways to invest in art; i.e. art funds, fractional shares Like some alternative investments, art is not heavily regulated by the SEC
May provide portfolio diversification Highly illiquid and opaque
Some countries offer tax breaks on art sales Art gains subject to higher taxes than long-term capital gains
Owning art is aesthetically gratifying Risk of damage and loss

Returns on Art Investments Over Time

Just as the art world is expanding to offer new options to investors, it’s also adopting certain investment world conventions, such as art indices. Now investors can consider the data provided by an index such as the Sotheby Mei Moses Index, which was modeled on the Case-Shiller Index for home prices.

That said, individual artworks are not securities — they are non-fungible and highly illiquid — and as such evaluating the “performance” of specific works or even certain sectors over time is difficult. Even taking into account the evolution of fractional art shares and art funds as investment vehicles, the lack of transparency around pricing (as well as regulation) can make it difficult for investors to make a satisfactory risk-reward assessment.

Unfortunately, this lack of transparency is part of the risk when investing in alternative assets.

The Takeaway

Investing in art offers some advantages, not least of which is the enjoyment of researching and purchasing individual works that fulfill a personal taste or passion. In addition, art is an alternative investment, meaning that it doesn’t move in tandem with traditional markets. As such, it can offer portfolio diversification.

But like many alternative assets, art can be highly volatile and illiquid. As a whole, although art investment opportunities have expanded into art funds and owning fractional shares of artworks, art as an investment is not transparent or well regulated. That said, for the right investor, this asset class may provide unique opportunities.

Ready to expand your portfolio's growth potential? Alternative investments, traditionally available to high-net-worth individuals, are accessible to everyday investors on SoFi's easy-to-use platform. Investments in commodities, real estate, venture capital, and more are now within reach. Alternative investments can be high risk, so it's important to consider your portfolio goals and risk tolerance to determine if they're right for you.

Invest in alts to take your portfolio beyond stocks and bonds.

FAQ

What is the best art to invest in?

The best art to invest in is art you know well and has a value you feel confident in. That might be an individual piece by a certain artist, or it might be fractional shares in well-known or even famous works. Whatever route you choose, treat it like any other investment: do the necessary research, and understand the potential risks and rewards.

Will the art you choose increase in value?

As with any type of investment there are no guarantees. Some works of art appreciate steadily over time, some enjoy a sudden rise in value if market trends are favorable, while other art you might invest in could rapidly lose value. This is why it’s essential for any investor interested in art to fully understand how these alternative assets might fit into your portfolio, or not.

Photo credit: iStock/South_agency

INVESTMENTS ARE NOT FDIC INSURED • ARE NOT BANK GUARANTEED • MAY LOSE VALUE

SoFi Invest is a trade name used by SoFi Wealth LLC and SoFi Securities LLC offering investment products and services. Robo investing and advisory services are provided by SoFi Wealth LLC, an SEC-registered investment adviser. Brokerage and self-directed investing products offered through SoFi Securities LLC, Member FINRA/SIPC.

For disclosures on SoFi Invest platforms visit SoFi.com/legal. For a full listing of the fees associated with Sofi Invest please view our fee schedule.

An investor should consider the investment objectives, risks, charges, and expenses of the Fund carefully before investing. This and other important information are contained in the Fund’s prospectus. For a current prospectus, please click the Prospectus link on the Fund’s respective page. The prospectus should be read carefully prior to investing.
Alternative investments, including funds that invest in alternative investments, are risky and may not be suitable for all investors. Alternative investments often employ leveraging and other speculative practices that increase an investor's risk of loss to include complete loss of investment, often charge high fees, and can be highly illiquid and volatile. Alternative investments may lack diversification, involve complex tax structures and have delays in reporting important tax information. Registered and unregistered alternative investments are not subject to the same regulatory requirements as mutual funds.
Please note that Interval Funds are illiquid instruments, hence the ability to trade on your timeline may be restricted. Investors should review the fee schedule for Interval Funds via the prospectus.

Investment Risk: Diversification can help reduce some investment risk. It cannot guarantee profit, or fully protect in a down market.

Tax Information: This article provides general background information only and is not intended to serve as legal or tax advice or as a substitute for legal counsel. You should consult your own attorney and/or tax advisor if you have a question requiring legal or tax advice.

Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs): Investors should carefully consider the information contained in the prospectus, which contains the Fund’s investment objectives, risks, charges, expenses, and other relevant information. You may obtain a prospectus from the Fund company’s website or by emailing customer service at [email protected]. Please read the prospectus carefully prior to investing.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

Disclaimer: The projections or other information regarding the likelihood of various investment outcomes are hypothetical in nature, do not reflect actual investment results, and are not guarantees of future results.

Fund Fees
If you invest in Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) through SoFi Invest (either by buying them yourself or via investing in SoFi Invest’s automated investments, formerly SoFi Wealth), these funds will have their own management fees. These fees are not paid directly by you, but rather by the fund itself. these fees do reduce the fund’s returns. Check out each fund’s prospectus for details. SoFi Invest does not receive sales commissions, 12b-1 fees, or other fees from ETFs for investing such funds on behalf of advisory clients, though if SoFi Invest creates its own funds, it could earn management fees there.
SoFi Invest may waive all, or part of any of these fees, permanently or for a period of time, at its sole discretion for any reason. Fees are subject to change at any time. The current fee schedule will always be available in your Account Documents section of SoFi Invest.

SOIN-Q224-1856685-V1

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May
30
2024

Guide to the Differences Between FDIC vs SIPC

By | Financial Independence, money, Money & Life | Comments Off on Guide to the Differences Between FDIC vs SIPC

If you have a significant amount of money in a bank or brokerage account, you may crave reassurance that your funds would be covered in the rare instance of a financial institution failing. The United States government has a couple of programs in place that help to protect savers and investors in the case of a bank failure. These programs help to ensure overall consumer confidence in the U.S. financial sector.

Two of these programs are run by government corporations known as the FDIC and SIPC. The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) protects money that is held in a checking, savings, certificate of deposit (CD), or other deposit account at an insured bank. The Securities Investor Protection Corporation (SIPC) protects customers of SIPC-member broker-dealers if the firm fails financially.

While these two insurance programs have a lot of similarities, they also have a few key differences that you’ll want to be aware of.

What Is FDIC?

The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) is an independent agency that was created by an act of Congress passed in 1933. During the Great Depression of the 1930s, many local and regional banks failed. Congress created the FDIC to help ensure that people would not lose their hard-earned money in the case of future bank failures.

The FDIC insures $250,000 per depositor, per insured bank, for each account category (such as single, trust, or joint accounts). Since FDIC insurance first went into effect in 1934, no depositor has lost any insured money that was held in an eligible bank.

While the FDIC offers insurance for deposits held at participating banks, the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) insures deposits held at credit unions. It’s important to understand that key difference between the FDIC and NCUA.

Also worth noting is that some financial institutions offer programs which can insure excess deposits for more than the $250,000 limit with extended insurance coverage.1 This is typically accomplished by bank partnerships which ensure that no single financial institution holds more than the $250,000 FDIC limit for a client.

If you want to keep more than $250,000 on deposit, it can be worthwhile to look into these expanded FDIC insurance coverage offers.

What Is SIPC?

In addition to the FDIC and the NCUA, the SIPC is a nonprofit organization that is set up to protect U.S. consumers. The Securities Investor Protection Corporation (SIPC) was started when Congress passed the Securities Investor Protection Act of 1970. The SIPC protects the securities and cash in a brokerage account, up to a total amount of $500,000.

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SIPC vs FDIC

When comparing the SIPC to the. FDIC, you will learn that they are two different organizations. They share the goal of protecting accounts held in U.S. financial institutions and instilling consumer confidence.

Here’s a look at how the SIPC and FDIC are similar and different:

Securities Investor Protection Corporation (SIPC)

 Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC)
Protects money invested in brokerage accounts Protects money invested in bank accounts
Protects the securities and cash in your brokerage account up to $500,000 Protects up to $250,000 per depositor, per ownership category, per bank
Founded in 1970 Founded in 1934
Applies if a brokerage firm becomes insolvent and/or goes bankrupt Applies when a bank fails

Similarities

The SIPC and FDIC share the same goal — ensuring that money and investments held in U.S. accounts remain in the hands of consumers. One isn’t necessarily better than the other, since they apply to different kinds of financial holdings. No matter where you are holding your money and/or investments, you’ll want to make sure that your investments are insured by either the FDIC, NCUA, or SIPC.

Differences

The biggest difference between the FDIC and the SIPC is when they apply. The FDIC covers deposits held at certain banks. The SIPC applies to investments at brokerage accounts.

Another difference is the amount of coverage. The FDIC protects up to $250,000 in a bank account, while the SIPC covers up to $500,000 in a brokerage account, including up to $250,000 protection for cash in your brokerage account.

Pros and Cons of FDIC vs SIPC

There aren’t really pros and cons when comparing the insurance offered by the FDIC and SIPC. It’s not a matter of, say, SIPC insurance vs. FDIC: They are not competitors. Each organization works in a slightly different way.

In terms of upsides, the FDIC covers deposits held by FDIC-insured banks. That means if you have money in a checking, savings, CD, or other kind of depositor account, held at an insured bank, you would be covered against loss in the very rare instance of the bank failing. The downside, if you want to look at it that way, is that this insurance doesn’t extend to brokerage accounts.

The SIPC covers the value of investments held in a brokerage account. As for positives, the reassurance of knowing your funds are covered is an excellent feature. However, the downsides could be seen as the limits of this coverage: up to $500,000 and only for funds held per SIPC guidelines.

Because they work in different ways, the FDIC and SIPC complement each other to work towards strengthening consumer confidence.

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Is Your Bank Account Insured?

No matter where you keep your money, you’ll want to make sure that the money in your account is insured by a program such as the FDIC or SIPC. Being insured by the FDIC is a component that can be used to rate banks against each other.

It is usually fairly straightforward to find out if your bank is insured by the FDIC. To find out if your bank is FDIC-insured, go to the BankFind Suite on the FDIC website.

It may be more complicated to find out if your brokerage account is held in an account covered by the SIPC. If you cannot find the answer on the broker’s website, contact them to make sure.

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FAQ

Is SIPC as good as FDIC?

The Securities Investor Protection Corporation (SIPC) and Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) are not direct competitors. They insure investments and deposits at brokerage firms and banks, respectively.

Is it safe to keep more than $500,000 in a brokerage account?

Whether it’s safe to keep that much money in a brokerage account depends on your individual risk tolerance. Just keep in mind that the SIPC will only cover up to $500,000 in a brokerage account, which includes $250,000 in cash in your brokerage account.

What does SIPC not cover?

The SIPC covers what it defines as “securities” — stocks, bonds, Treasury securities, certificates of deposit, mutual funds, money market mutual funds, and certain other investments. SIPC does not protect most commodity futures contracts, foreign exchange trades, investment contracts and fixed annuity contracts that are not registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission under the Securities Act of 1933.

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1SoFi Bank is a member FDIC and does not provide more than $250,000 of FDIC insurance per depositor per legal category of account ownership, as described in the FDIC’s regulations. Any additional FDIC insurance is provided by the SoFi Insured Deposit Program. Deposits may be insured up to $3M through participation in the program. See full terms at SoFi.com/banking/fdic/sidpterms. See list of participating banks at SoFi.com/banking/fdic/participatingbanks.

SoFi Checking and Savings is offered through SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. The SoFi® Bank Debit Mastercard® is issued by SoFi Bank, N.A., pursuant to license by Mastercard International Incorporated and can be used everywhere Mastercard is accepted. Mastercard is a registered trademark, and the circles design is a trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated.

Annual percentage yield (APY) is variable and subject to change at any time. Rates are current as of 12/23/25. There is no minimum balance requirement. Fees may reduce earnings. Additional rates and information can be found at https://www.sofi.com/legal/banking-rate-sheet

Eligible Direct Deposit means a recurring deposit of regular income to an account holder’s SoFi Checking or Savings account, including payroll, pension, or government benefit payments (e.g., Social Security), made by the account holder’s employer, payroll or benefits provider or government agency (“Eligible Direct Deposit”) via the Automated Clearing House (“ACH”) Network every 31 calendar days.

Although we do our best to recognize all Eligible Direct Deposits, a small number of employers, payroll providers, benefits providers, or government agencies do not designate payments as direct deposit. To ensure you're earning the APY for account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit, we encourage you to check your APY Details page the day after your Eligible Direct Deposit posts to your SoFi account. If your APY is not showing as the APY for account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit, contact us at 855-456-7634 with the details of your Eligible Direct Deposit. As long as SoFi Bank can validate those details, you will start earning the APY for account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit from the date you contact SoFi for the next 31 calendar days. You will also be eligible for the APY for account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit on future Eligible Direct Deposits, as long as SoFi Bank can validate them.

Deposits that are not from an employer, payroll, or benefits provider or government agency, including but not limited to check deposits, peer-to-peer transfers (e.g., transfers from PayPal, Venmo, Wise, etc.), merchant transactions (e.g., transactions from PayPal, Stripe, Square, etc.), and bank ACH funds transfers and wire transfers from external accounts, or are non-recurring in nature (e.g., IRS tax refunds), do not constitute Eligible Direct Deposit activity. There is no minimum Eligible Direct Deposit amount required to qualify for the stated interest rate. SoFi Bank shall, in its sole discretion, assess each account holder's Eligible Direct Deposit activity to determine the applicability of rates and may request additional documentation for verification of eligibility.

See additional details at https://www.sofi.com/legal/banking-rate-sheet.
Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

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2024

How Much Money Should I Spend on Rent?

By | Budgeting & Goals, money | No Comments

The rule of thumb has been that your rent should account for no more than 30% of your gross income, but that percentage isn’t right for everyone. Figuring out your “magic number” can require a little thought.

Individual circumstances matter: Maybe you have a heavy monthly student loan payment while your best friend has none. That means they can likely afford a higher rent than you can at the moment. Also, economic and social forces are shaping how big a bite rent takes out of a paycheck. According to the most recent U.S. Census Bureau data, almost one-third of Americans are spending more than 30% of their income on housing costs, an increase of almost 5 million households vs. three years earlier. That 30% just may not be realistic anymore.

Keep reading for detailed information on how much to spend on rent and how to budget for it.

How Much You Should Spend Depends on Your Situation

Whether you rent or own, housing is typically the largest expense the average U.S. consumer must pay for every month.

Determining how much you can afford is really a matter of monthly budgeting and striking a balance. You can look at your take-home pay and then consider how much you are spending on all of your monthly expenses.

You’ll want to account for the necessities, like housing, utilities, health care, debt payments, food, and clothing, as well as some discretionary expenses, such as entertainment and travel. Ideally, you will also be saving and have some wiggle room when paying your bills to cover unexpected expenses that can crop up.

As noted above, each person’s situation will be unique. One person might have a high salary but steep debt payments (student and car loans and a credit card balance to contend with). Another might earn less but be debt-free and therefore able to allocate more toward rent.

Where and how you live also makes a difference. In America’s biggest cities, it’s common for renters to pay a larger share of their income for housing. For example, one recent Moody’s Analytics report found that 57% of those in the New York metro area pay more than 30% of their income toward rent and 36.6% of those in Miami are in the same (very pricey) boat. When compared to the person who lives in, say, a small city in the Midwest or South, there’s likely a major price gap.

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💡 Quick Tip: Did you know online banking can help you get paid sooner? Feel the magic of payday up to two days earlier when you set up direct deposit with SoFi.

Figuring Out How Much You Should Spend on Rent

There are several ways to come up with solid guidelines for how much to pay in rent based on your particular situation.

Use a Budgeting Rule

You’ve already learned about the rule of thumb — one that’s been around for decades — which puts the ideal housing costs at 30% of your after-tax income, no matter how much you earn.

That rather broad guideline dates back to the Brooke Amendment, which capped public housing rents at 25% of an individual’s income in 1969. Congress raised the cap to 30% in 1981, and eventually it became the go-to guide for determining “cost burden” — the amount of income a family could spend and still have enough left for other expenses — even those who aren’t in low-income households.

Another perhaps more useful approach is the 50/30/20 budget method, which was made popular by Sen. Elizabeth Warren’s book All Your Worth: The Ultimate Lifetime Money Plan.

The 50/30/20 budgeting method suggests dividing your after-tax income into three main categories, putting 50% toward needs (essential costs like housing, transportation, groceries, utilities, etc.), 30% toward wants, and 20% toward savings.

Following those guidelines, your rent would qualify as a need. But it remains up to you to decide how much of that 50% you want to — or feel you have to — spend on housing. If you live in a major city or tech hub, your rent may be high enough that you have to make adjustments to other essentials in your budget and/or borrow from other categories (say, cutting back on those wants, such as dinners out).

Factor in Costs

Another way to look at your rent budget is to remember that your housing costs are more than just your monthly payment to the landlord. If you only do your financial projections using that single expense, you could wind up with a too tight budget.

It can be valuable to consider all the facets of your rent: There may be a security deposit, moving costs if you are heading to a new place, utilities like electricity and wifi, as well as the cost of furniture if you are a first-time renter. Remember to add in any parking costs related to a rental, as well as renter’s insurance.

Develop a budget that acknowledges these expenses. Will you have to dip into savings for that security deposit? Will some expenses have to go on your credit card? Making these calculations can give you a better bead on your housing costs and may lead you to a new and improved budget.

Look at Other Ways to Save

There are other moves you can make to free up funds for rent if your monthly costs are running high. A few ideas:

•   Consider getting a roommate. That can cut your housing costs dramatically and can be a good option if you feel you are living paycheck to paycheck.

•   Look for less expensive locations. These may just be a few blocks or a zip code away from your ideal area, but they can make a major difference in your cost of living. For instance, if you can live 20 minutes further away from your workplace, you might reap significant savings on your rent.

•   Check with providers about monthly charges and interest rates. Sometimes, you may get lucky and find that your wireless provider can lower your bill or your credit card can take your annual percentage rate, or APR, down a notch.

•   Look for other ways to economize on non-rent expenses. Join a warehouse club and split the bounty with a friend or two to save on food costs. Minimize the number of streaming services you have. Cut back on rideshares and take public transportation; check out free music and other cultural offerings in your town.


💡 Quick Tip: When you feel the urge to buy something that isn’t in your budget, try the 30-day rule. Make a note of the item in your calendar for 30 days into the future. When the date rolls around, there’s a good chance the “gotta have it” feeling will have subsided.

The Takeaway

One common guideline says that 30% of your income (before taxes) can be allotted to rent. But everyone’s financial situation is different. Some people live in cities that are pricey; other people have student and car loans that must be paid. By using budget guidelines, you can determine the right figure for your circumstances.

Having the right banking partner may also help you budget better.

Interested in opening an online bank account? When you sign up for a SoFi Checking and Savings account with eligible direct deposit, you’ll get a competitive annual percentage yield (APY), pay zero account fees, and enjoy an array of rewards, such as access to the Allpoint Network of 55,000+ fee-free ATMs globally. Qualifying accounts can even access their paycheck up to two days early.


Better banking is here with SoFi, NerdWallet’s 2024 winner for Best Checking Account Overall.* Enjoy 3.30% APY on SoFi Checking and Savings with eligible direct deposit.

FAQ

Is 30% on rent unrealistic? Is it too much?

Spending 30% of your gross income is a popular guideline, but only you can determine if it works for you. For some people, 30% will be too much, given their other expenses. For others, such as those in major cities, 30% may be a desirably low number.

How much of my salary should I spend on rent?

The usual guideline is to spend no more than 30% of your pretax salary on rent, but some people may find that they must spend more than that. Currently, about one third of all renters spend more than that figure.

Am I overspending on rent?

Some ways to tell that you are overspending on rent would be if you are living paycheck to paycheck, if you are not able to pay down your debts, and if you are not able to save money. If you are in this situation, it can be wise to take a holistic look at your budget, including rent, and see where you can find a better balance, which might include lowering your rent.

Photo credit: iStock/Jacob Wackerhausen

SoFi Checking and Savings is offered through SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. The SoFi® Bank Debit Mastercard® is issued by SoFi Bank, N.A., pursuant to license by Mastercard International Incorporated and can be used everywhere Mastercard is accepted. Mastercard is a registered trademark, and the circles design is a trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated.

Annual percentage yield (APY) is variable and subject to change at any time. Rates are current as of 12/23/25. There is no minimum balance requirement. Fees may reduce earnings. Additional rates and information can be found at https://www.sofi.com/legal/banking-rate-sheet

Eligible Direct Deposit means a recurring deposit of regular income to an account holder’s SoFi Checking or Savings account, including payroll, pension, or government benefit payments (e.g., Social Security), made by the account holder’s employer, payroll or benefits provider or government agency (“Eligible Direct Deposit”) via the Automated Clearing House (“ACH”) Network every 31 calendar days.

Although we do our best to recognize all Eligible Direct Deposits, a small number of employers, payroll providers, benefits providers, or government agencies do not designate payments as direct deposit. To ensure you're earning the APY for account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit, we encourage you to check your APY Details page the day after your Eligible Direct Deposit posts to your SoFi account. If your APY is not showing as the APY for account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit, contact us at 855-456-7634 with the details of your Eligible Direct Deposit. As long as SoFi Bank can validate those details, you will start earning the APY for account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit from the date you contact SoFi for the next 31 calendar days. You will also be eligible for the APY for account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit on future Eligible Direct Deposits, as long as SoFi Bank can validate them.

Deposits that are not from an employer, payroll, or benefits provider or government agency, including but not limited to check deposits, peer-to-peer transfers (e.g., transfers from PayPal, Venmo, Wise, etc.), merchant transactions (e.g., transactions from PayPal, Stripe, Square, etc.), and bank ACH funds transfers and wire transfers from external accounts, or are non-recurring in nature (e.g., IRS tax refunds), do not constitute Eligible Direct Deposit activity. There is no minimum Eligible Direct Deposit amount required to qualify for the stated interest rate. SoFi Bank shall, in its sole discretion, assess each account holder's Eligible Direct Deposit activity to determine the applicability of rates and may request additional documentation for verification of eligibility.

See additional details at https://www.sofi.com/legal/banking-rate-sheet.
Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

*Awards or rankings from NerdWallet are not indicative of future success or results. This award and its ratings are independently determined and awarded by their respective publications.

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Guide to a Confirmed Letter of Credit

Guide to a Confirmed Letter of Credit

By | Budgeting & Goals, money | Comments Off on Guide to a Confirmed Letter of Credit

A confirmed letter of credit can be an important document to those who are launching or running a business, particularly those engaging in international trade. These letters are used to help protect both the buyer and the seller in a business-to-business transaction by adding an extra guarantee that the seller will get paid. They essentially mean that a second bank will pay the seller if the first bank fails to do so, which can inspire confidence and allow a deal to go through.

Here’s a closer look at what a confirmed letter of credit is, how it works, and its pros and cons.

What Is a Confirmed Letter of Credit?

Also known as a confirmed LC, a confirmed letter of credit is an additional guarantee for a payment by a secondary bank. It states that this additional bank will be responsible for a payment being on time and in full even if the buyer doesn’t meet their contractual obligations and the first bank (called the issuing bank) defaults on the payment. You might think of it as a kind of insurance policy or Plan B if the initial bank responsible for payment fails to do its job.

This type of document can be common in international trades, such as transactions between export and import businesses. In many cases, a guarantee may be required to conduct international transactions or when a vendor or seller has reason to doubt the first bank’s creditworthiness.

💡 Quick Tip: If your checking account doesn’t offer decent rates, why not apply for an online checking account with SoFi to earn 0.50% APY. That’s 7x based on FDIC monthly interest checking rate as of December 15, 2025. the national checking account average.

How Confirmed Letters of Credit Work

Confirmed letters of credit are commonly used as negotiable instruments, which are signed documents that promise to pay a certain sum to a specified person. They can be especially valuable in international business transactions that involve a significant payment amount for goods or services. Since the letter acts as guaranteed payment, it may take the place of a request for advance payment.

To get a regular letter of credit, the buyer will likely need to submit required documents to the first bank, including proof that certain steps have been completed. Then the bank will send appropriate documents to the seller’s bank. This paperwork shares detailed instructions on the terms and conditions, as well as how payment should be made. Depending on the agreement between the buyer and the seller, payment may be made immediately or at an agreed-upon date.

Once the letter of credit has been issued, the buyer may need the backing of a second bank, or a confirmed letter of credit. Worth noting: A fee is likely to be involved. The exact amount of this fee may depend on how good (or questionable) the first bank’s credit is. This letter usually reflects the first letter of credit and uses the same terms.

A confirmed letter of credit can protect both parties because it decreases the risk of default for the vendor or seller. Additionally, it ensures that payment is only made if all the terms are met. It can be a step to building good credit when doing a deal with a new client. It can also be helpful for a business that is just starting out and making connections, building contacts, and monitoring its credit.

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Parties Involved in a Confirmed Letter of Credit

Here’s a listing of all the parties typically involved in a confirmed letter of credit.

•   Buyer or applicant: This is the party who is requesting the letter of credit and who will pay the seller.

•   Beneficiary or seller: The party who is selling goods or services and is the one who receives payment.

•   Issuing bank: This is usually a bank where the buyer already has a business bank account. It’s the one that issues the original letter of credit.

•   Confirming bank: This is the second bank that will guarantee the funds to the seller once the terms in the letter of credit are met. In some cases, the confirming bank is from the seller’s home country (this may be called a correspondent bank) or is a bank the seller already works with.

Recommended: Guide to Irrevocable Letters of Credit (ILOC)

Confirmed Letter of Credit Example

Let’s look at a fictional example of how a confirmed letter of credit could work. Say that Pauline’s Paper Goods receives an order for 100,000 pallets of customized notebooks from JessCo, a stationery company. Pauline’s Paper Goods has never worked with JessCo before and isn’t sure that this company has the means to pay for the goods. Maybe Pauline’s Paper Goods worries that JessCo doesn’t have what is considered good credit.

In order to prevent non-payment after the notebooks are produced and shipped off to the buyer, Pauline’s Paper Goods outlines an agreement that JessCo needs to pay with a confirmed letter of credit on the date the shipment leaves their warehouse.

If JessCo agrees, it would start applying for a letter of credit at its bank, where it has its checking account, in the U.S. If the bank requires it, the company needs to provide proof it has the funds available or it will apply for financing.

As soon as the issuing bank creates the letter of credit, JessCo then applies for a confirmed letter of credit with another bank, possibly the seller’s bank. When Pauline’s Paper Goods receives the completed confirmed letter, it manufactures and ships the customized notebooks. Once Pauline’s Paper Goods provides proof of when and how the goods were shipped, the guaranteed funds are released.

Recommended: Business vs Personal Checking Account: What’s the Difference?

Confirmed vs Unconfirmed Letters of Credit

If you are conducting international business, you will probably hear the terms confirmed and unconfirmed letters of credit. An unconfirmed letter of credit is simply a letter of credit issued by a bank. A confirmed letter of credit, as we’ve described above, is backed by two banks. This can foster trust if, say, there’s reason to worry the payment won’t be made.

Here’s a look at some other differences between a confirmed vs. an unconfirmed letter or credit.

•   Guaranteed payment: With a letter of credit, the issuing bank guarantees payment. With a confirmed letter of credit, however, two banks confirm payment.

•   Cost: Unconfirmed letters of credit tend to cost less than confirmed letters of credit.

•   Changes: The buyer is allowed to make changes to an unconfirmed letter of credit. With a confirmed letter of credit, both banks can modify the document.

•   Issuance: The seller only has to approach one bank for an unconfirmed letter of credit, but needs to contact two with a confirmed letter of credit.

Recommended: Guide to a Commercial Letter of Credit

Advantages of Confirmed Letters of Credit

Confirmed letters of credit can have several benefits for sellers, particularly those doing business internationally and wanting to ensure smooth transactions. These advantages include:

•   Protection for both the buyer and seller

•   An extra layer of confidence for the seller

•   A lower risk of default thanks to a reputable second bank (perhaps serving as a guarantor if the first bank has a low credit rating)

•   Buyers can seem more creditworthy, which may increase the odds that a seller will do business with them

Disadvantages of Confirmed Letters of Credit

While confirmed letters of credit can be very valuable in business, there are a couple of downsides to recognize. Disadvantages of confirmed letters of credit include:

•   It may take longer to get a confirmed letter of credit since an additional bank is involved

•   Bank fees may be higher than with an unconfirmed letter of credit

The Takeaway

A confirmed letter of credit can be a valuable business tool, especially when conducting international business. For those importing or exporting, the letter will guarantee payment for goods a company is supplying if the buyer and the buyer’s bank can’t complete the deal. Getting a confirmed letter of credit may cost more and take longer compared to an unconfirmed letter of credit, but the effort may be worth it. It can secure a transaction and open doors to doing business with new customers in a way that communicates confidence.

Interested in opening an online bank account? When you sign up for a SoFi Checking and Savings account with eligible direct deposit, you’ll get a competitive annual percentage yield (APY), pay zero account fees, and enjoy an array of rewards, such as access to the Allpoint Network of 55,000+ fee-free ATMs globally. Qualifying accounts can even access their paycheck up to two days early.


Better banking is here with SoFi, NerdWallet’s 2024 winner for Best Checking Account Overall.* Enjoy 3.30% APY on SoFi Checking and Savings with eligible direct deposit.

FAQ

What is an unconfirmed letter of credit?

An unconfirmed letter of credit is a letter of credit that’s only been issued by one bank, known as the issuing bank. In a transaction, the buyer requests an unconfirmed letter of credit to guarantee funds will be paid on time to the seller by the bank.

Is an unconfirmed LC safe?

Yes, an unconfirmed letter of credit is safe because there is a guarantee or confirmation from one bank that payment will be made. Assuming that the issuing bank has a high credit rating, the seller can feel confident that the funds will be paid once all the conditions in the contract have been met. If the seller wants an additional layer of security, they may request a confirmed letter of credit — which means a second bank will provide payment if the first one fails to do so.

What is the risk of an unconfirmed LC?

The risk of an unconfirmed letter of credit is that the issuing bank won’t have the funds to pay the seller. That means that even if the seller completes their end of the contract, they risk losing out on funds if the issuing bank doesn’t fulfill their promise.

Annual percentage yield (APY) is variable and subject to change at any time. Rates are current as of 12/23/25. There is no minimum balance requirement. Fees may reduce earnings. Additional rates and information can be found at https://www.sofi.com/legal/banking-rate-sheet

Eligible Direct Deposit means a recurring deposit of regular income to an account holder’s SoFi Checking or Savings account, including payroll, pension, or government benefit payments (e.g., Social Security), made by the account holder’s employer, payroll or benefits provider or government agency (“Eligible Direct Deposit”) via the Automated Clearing House (“ACH”) Network every 31 calendar days.

Although we do our best to recognize all Eligible Direct Deposits, a small number of employers, payroll providers, benefits providers, or government agencies do not designate payments as direct deposit. To ensure you're earning the APY for account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit, we encourage you to check your APY Details page the day after your Eligible Direct Deposit posts to your SoFi account. If your APY is not showing as the APY for account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit, contact us at 855-456-7634 with the details of your Eligible Direct Deposit. As long as SoFi Bank can validate those details, you will start earning the APY for account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit from the date you contact SoFi for the next 31 calendar days. You will also be eligible for the APY for account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit on future Eligible Direct Deposits, as long as SoFi Bank can validate them.

Deposits that are not from an employer, payroll, or benefits provider or government agency, including but not limited to check deposits, peer-to-peer transfers (e.g., transfers from PayPal, Venmo, Wise, etc.), merchant transactions (e.g., transactions from PayPal, Stripe, Square, etc.), and bank ACH funds transfers and wire transfers from external accounts, or are non-recurring in nature (e.g., IRS tax refunds), do not constitute Eligible Direct Deposit activity. There is no minimum Eligible Direct Deposit amount required to qualify for the stated interest rate. SoFi Bank shall, in its sole discretion, assess each account holder's Eligible Direct Deposit activity to determine the applicability of rates and may request additional documentation for verification of eligibility.

See additional details at https://www.sofi.com/legal/banking-rate-sheet.
SoFi Checking and Savings is offered through SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. The SoFi® Bank Debit Mastercard® is issued by SoFi Bank, N.A., pursuant to license by Mastercard International Incorporated and can be used everywhere Mastercard is accepted. Mastercard is a registered trademark, and the circles design is a trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

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