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Q: What Is MekaVerse NFT?

The MekaVerse NFT collection is an NFT project that launched in October 2021, and it features 8,888 NFTs. The NFTs themselves feature a very specific artwork style, each boasting robots that are commonly known as 'Mekas.'

Q: Who Created MekaVerse NFT?

The two main people behind the MekaVerse project are 'Matt' and 'Mattey,' two European digital and graphic artists.

Dec

2022

MekaVerse NFTs: Everything You Need to Know

A Guide to MekaVerse NFTs

By Samuel Becker | Growing Wealth, invest, Investing | Comments Off

The MekaVerse NFT collection is one of the most hyped and talked-about non-fungible token collections of the past couple of years. While there are many other NFTs that have caputured the attention of investors and others in the crypto space, MekaVerse NFTs is a collection of nearly 9,000 robot-inspired images, each with their own unique stories. That is one of the primary reasons that made them so enticing to investors.

Curious about this new NFT collection? This guide will explain what MekaVerse NFTs are, their history, and everything else you need to know.

Recap: What Is an NFT?

Before getting to MekaVerse NFTs, it’s worth quickly recapping the basics about NFTs.

NFT stands for “non-fungible token,” which is a type of digital asset that typically, but not always, takes the form of some sort of artwork. One way to think of it is that NFTs are much like a digital version of a baseball card — assuming only one copy of the baseball card exists.

NFTs have unique, identifiable metadata codes, meaning that they cannot be copied, and as such are one-of-a-kind. On the other hand, fungible tokens, like Bitcoins, have many copies — they are all the same, and nothing distinguishes one Bitcoin from another. There are also numerous NFT collections. MekaVerse NFTs are one of them, and CryptoPunks is another.

Note, too, that NFTs are somewhat controversial. There is some serious concern about the environmental impact of NFTs, for instance, in a similar vein to concerns around Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies. The NFT market is rife with scams as well, which opens up some investors to risk.

What Is MekaVerse NFT?

The MekaVerse NFT collection (which you can view here on OpenSea ) is an NFT project that launched in October 2021, and it features 8,888 NFTs. The NFTs themselves feature a very specific artwork style, each boasting robots that are commonly known as “Mekas.” These Mekas are inspired by Gundam-style robots, which is itself a fictional Japanese anime franchise that features giant military robots called “mechas.” Each individual Meka has its own, unique story, or lore, that comes with it.

Since NFTs hit the mainstream over the past few years, the MekaVerse collection is perhaps the most-hyped collection release to date. Its Discord server has thousands of members, and it has more than 250,000 followers on Twitter .

History of MekaVerse

How does a collection of mecha NFTs become one of the most-followed digital asset drops in history? Here’s a brief rundown of the project’s history.

Who Created MekaVerse NFT?

The two main people behind the MekaVerse project are “Matt” and “Mattey,” two European digital and graphic artists. They teamed up with Julien van Dorland, a veteran of the NFT landscape, and in late August 2021, MekaVerse opened social media and Discord accounts to the public to get a look at the NFT artwork.

From there, the project took off.

How Was MekaVerse Created?

The MekaVerse project started a public raffle that was held in early October 2021, with the winners getting a chance to mint NFTs featuring either one or two Mekas. Those NFTs were then made public on OpenSea, an NFT marketplace. There was massive demand, too, as users registered nearly 173,000 wallets for the raffle.

On October 13, 2021, the complete MekaVerse NFT project was revealed . Sales for MekaVerse NFTs commenced, with sales averaging well into the thousands of dollars, and more than 5,000 individuals becoming MekaVerse NFT owners in the subsequent months.

How Do MekaVerse NFTs Work?

The project’s collection of nearly 9,000 NFTs is designed to capitalize on the “scarcity” aspect of NFTs, and therefore, increase their value. Each individual Meka in the project is a unique, three-dimensional creation, further adding to its perceived value.

MekaVerse NFTs work no different than any other NFT, too. They’re unique digital items, and are stored in digital wallets. In that sense, owning or possessing one is the same as owning an NFT from another collection, such as World of Women NFTs.

Further, when someone becomes a holder of a MekaVerse NFT, they become a part of the Meka’s corresponding “faction,” and can then gain access to exclusive events on Twitter and Discord.

How to Buy MekaVerse NFTs

The MekaVerse NFT collection is open to traders, collectors, and NFT investors. It’s housed on OpenSea, which is one of the world’s largest NFT marketplaces.

To browse or buy, you can simply go to the MekaVerse NFT collection on OpenSea , and take a look at all of the NFTs that are available. The marketplace has data related to pricing, bidding, and more. You can make an offer or buy NFTs on OpenSea.

But note that it’ll require that you use Ethereum (ETH), to do so. So, before you can actually make the purchase, you’ll need to create an account, get an Ethereum wallet, and attach it to your OpenSea account, so as to facilitate the transaction.

How Much Do MekaVerse NFTs Cost?

Since NFTs are commodities and traded on a marketplace, their prices are in flux. But if you’re looking for a straightforward answer as to how much MekaVerse NFTs cost, here’s one: They aren’t cheap.

Well, as of November 2022, they might be cheaper than they were in mid-December 2021, when the median price for a MekaVerse NFT was more than $4,500 (although they’re priced in ETH). But some have sold for much more. Around the time the project launched, some NFTs were selling for hundreds of thousands of dollars.

As of November 2022, though, the median price for a MekaVerse NFT is less than $400.

Most Expensive MekaVerse NFT

To date, the most expensive MekaVerse NFT to sell was Meka #2194 , which sold in late December 2021 for more than 500 ETH. At the time, ETH was trading for around $3,700, which puts the sale price for Meka #2194 at roughly $1.8 million.

As of November 2022, however, the most expensive MekaVerse NFT is Meka #2613, which sold in mid-November for $18,000.

Negative Sentiment Around MegaVerse NFTs

Every project has its issues and detractors, and the MekaVerse project is no different.

For instance, in the early days of the project, there were some delays in revealing some of the NFT images, which led to some lost momentum prior to launch. But those concerns were seemingly dwarfed by allegations of fraud, which surfaced on Twitter after the project launched.

In short, some people allege that certain buyers had early access to metadata (something inherent to all crypto collectibles), giving them an inside look at what images would be contained in certain NFTs — information that wasn’t available to everyone. That means that some buyers could have gotten their hands on high-value NFTs at lower prices, only to see their values shoot up later on.

There’s also been some criticism of the project due to the seeming lack of uniqueness among the NFT images. Some of the images appear to simply have colors swapped, rather than be a completely different Meka.

And finally, there have been some significant concerns about the viability of NFT projects and crypto in general following the significant drop in the cryptocurrency markets during 2022. As discussed, MekaVerse NFTs that were selling for hundreds of thousands of dollars are now selling for hundreds of dollars.

This is all to say that NFTs are speculative and risky investments, and investors should treat them as such.

Was the Negative Hype Justified?

Looking back at the negative hype surrounding the MekaVerse NFT project, it’s easy to say that it was, indeed, justified. That might apply to the entire crypto sphere, too, as values have fallen considerably during 2022.

On a smaller scale, though, it’s hard to say whether the negative sentiment about the MekaVerse project stemming from fraud allegations was likewise justified. Again, the issues relating to a lack of uniqueness among NFTs, and the potential for insider trading or front running, too, is an issue that most or all NFT projects are contending with.

Is the MekaVerse Still Worth Looking At?

Whether or not the MekaVerse is still worth looking at will come down to an investor’s personal preference. Values for NFTs have already fallen significantly, and it’s not hard to imagine that they could continue to decline. On the other hand, there could be a crypto bull run in 2023 — we simply don’t know.

So, from an investment standpoint, NFTs in general should still be considered very risky. There’s a chance that the market could bounce back, but no guarantees.

For simple NFT collectors? The MekaVerse collection could still be worth checking out, especially now that prices are down.

The Takeaway

The MekaVerse NFT collection was one of the most-hyped collections to be released to date. The thousands of mecha-inspired art pieces are still sought-after by collectors and investors, but values have fallen in a big way during the so-called crypto winter of 2022. Further, the MekaVerse team does have a roadmap in place for the future, which includes bringing the MekaVerse into the physical world with clothing and toys. There are also plans to airdrop free NFTs to current holders, which may include “weapons” and “companions” in future online games or events.

Remember, though, that the NFT market is still new and full of potential for creators and investors. However, before investing in cryptocurrencies, NFTs, or any other digital asset, it’s important to research and understand the market.

FAQ

Did MekaVerse start on Discord?

The MekaVerse didn’t necessarily start on Discord, but it did gain a lot of traction on Discord. At one point in time, the MekaVerse Discord had a member count in the six-figures, which helped the project gain early hype, and ultimately, launch as a success.

Photo credit: iStock/Space_Cat

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First Trade Amount		Bonus Payout
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$100	$499.99	$15
$500	$4,999.99	$50
$5,000+		$100

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Nov

2022

What Are Crypto Collectibles & How Are They Valued?

Guide to Crypto Collectibles

By Samuel Becker | Growing Wealth, invest, Investing | Comments Off

Crypto collectibles comprise the world of digital media that can be purchased, authenticated, and stored on blockchain networks. They’re similar to traditional collectibles — think baseball cards, Beanie Babies, artworks, and more — but they have no physical presence. They’re only digital.

Crypto collectibles take the form of non-fungible tokens, or NFTs, among other digital assets. That means that they’re one-of-a-kind. There aren’t any copies of them, which is the case with cryptocurrencies (which are considered fungible).

What Are Crypto Collectibles?

A crypto collectible is a digital asset that is created, encrypted, and stored on a blockchain. But there are distinct differences between a crypto collectible and a cryptocurrency: Crypto collectibles are non-fungible (crypto collectible and NFT can be synonymous, in most cases) and unique.

By contrast, all the different types of crypto are fungible: e.g. you can trade one Bitcoin for any other Bitcoin, it doesn’t matter — they are functionally the same.

The fact that crypto collectibles are non-fungible also means that they’re scarce, and scarcity gives them value — or perceived value — in the marketplace. Again, you can think of crypto collectibles as similar to baseball cards in the physical world. If you have a very rare baseball card (e.g. a Babe Ruth rookie card), it may carry a lot of value, because many baseball card collectors are willing to pay top dollar to get it.

Again, too, crypto collectibles are authenticated on blockchain networks, so that there’s a clear record of ownership and transactions related to any given collectible. They’re generally stored in a digital wallet, which is also how cryptocurrency works. In terms of the most common forms of crypto collectibles, it’s probably NFTs.

NFTs: Overview

As discussed, NFTs are non-fungible tokens are cryptographic digital assets that have uniquely identifiable metadata and codes, which are stored on the blockchain, ensuring that the NFT can’t be replicated or forged.

The tokens act as a representation of either digital or tangible items. For instance, one could create NFTs that stand for digital artwork, virtual real estate in a game, collectible Pokemon cards, or even someone’s personal identification information.

NFTs can take other forms as well, such as NFT music, which is exactly what it sounds like: A non-replicable audio track, stored on a blockchain network.

A lot of things can potentially be tokenized, in fact, like the first-ever tweet from Jack Dorsey, Twitter’s then-CEO.

While NFTs can, do, take numerous forms, the most important thing for most people in the crypto space to know about them is that they’re one-of-a-kind, and such, rare. That rarity is what gives them value.

How Do Crypto Collectibles Work?

Crypto collectibles such as NFTs function as assets. They can be collected, stored, or traded on marketplaces in exchange for cryptocurrencies or fiat currency, like USD (although there are some hoops to jump through before getting your hands on cash).

For instance, if you plan on selling NFTs to generate cash, you may need to go through the process of creating, or minting them to ensure you have ownership. You’d then need to determine the best marketplace to use to list and sell them. From there, you’d likely be trading your NFTs for another type of cryptocurrency, which you might then need to exchange for USD.

It’s important to keep the entire goal of NFTs in mind: To digitize, and thus lock in the value of an item, and make it relatively easy to trade, buy, or sell. When discussing NFTs and crypto collectibles, monetization and the ability to trade is really what most actors in the space are interested in, and what has helped fuel interest in the NFT ecosystem in recent years.

Where to Buy and Sell Crypto Collectibles?

Crypto collectibles, such as NFTs, can be purchased on digital exchanges and marketplaces. There are many out there, including OpenSea and Rarible, which allow users to make an account, attach their digital wallets, and start buying and selling NFTs. Users on many of these platforms can also create crypto collectibles or mint their own NFTs (read more about what NFT minting is, and how it works).

But usually, buying and selling collectibles is as simple as signing up for an account with a marketplace, funding that account, and then making trades.

5 Top-Selling Crypto Collectibles

There are thousands, if not millions of types of crypto collectibles and NFTs on the market. Here are some of the most expensive crypto collectibles:

1. EVERYDAYS: THE FIRST 5000 DAYS

The most expensive NFT or crypto collectible ever sold (so far) is a piece of digital artwork called “EVERYDAYS: THE FIRST 5000 DAYS” by the artist Mike Winkelmann (also known as “Beeple). The NFT sold for $69.3 million at auction by Christie’s in 2021, and is a collage of Beeple’s earlier work. It was purchased by an NFT investor named Metakovan.

2. Clock

It has a simple name, and it’s a simple NFT. “Clock” is an image that displays the number of days since Julian Assange, the founder of Wikileaks, was sent to prison. The NFT itself sold for $52.7 million in 2022. It was created by an artist named Pak, and the funds received from the NFT’s sale went toward Assange’s legal defense.

3. HUMAN ONE

“Beeple” strikes again — one of his other artworks, “HUMAN ONE” is more than just an NFT. It’s actually a physical sculpture that comes with an NFT, too. So, it’s a sort of hybrid traversing the physical and digital, and it sold for $29 million in 2021.

4. CryptoPunk #5822

CryptoPunk #5822 is a part of the CryptoPunk NFT series, and many have sold for high dollar amounts. This one, specifically, sold for $23.7 million in early 2022, and was purchased by Deepak Thapliyal, who is the CEO of a Chinese blockchain company. This particular CryptoPunk depicts an “alien” avatar, which is the rarest type in the whole collection.

5. CryptoPunk #7523

Yet another part of the CryptoPunk collection, CryptoPunk #7523 sold for $11.8 million in 2021. It was purchased by Shalon Meckenzie, who is most notable for being the largest shareholder in DraftKings (a sports betting company), who says he bought it because this CryptoPunk, like #5822, is of the rare “alien” type.

How Crypto Collectibles Are Valued

When buying and selling cryptocurrency, the value of different coins depends on a variety of market factors, including demand — but sometimes broader economic issues or challenges in the crypto space. It’s similar with crypto collectibles, but with a twist.

A number of different factors can play into the value of these digital asset. But owing to the fact that crypto collectibles are one-of-a-kind, collectors or investors may be willing to pay more to get them. As a result, their value can increase. If there are no bidders or potential buyers, their value falls.

Pros and Cons of Crypto Collectibles as Investments

As with any investment, crypto collectibles have their pros and cons. That’s important to note before you start buying and selling cryptocurrency.

Some of the pros include the fact that NFTs have a clear record of ownership and transaction data, they’re potentially a high-growth asset, and they can be used as a tool for diversification in an investor’s portfolio.

Some even offer additional perks, such as access to exclusive groups or events, or even have a physical element associated with them, such as Beeple’s “HUMAN ONE,” mentioned above.

But the potential cons are hard to ignore. Above all else, NFTs and numerous different types of cryptocurrency are speculative investments — they are highly volatile, and there are no guarantees that investors will see a return. Further, they can lack the liquidity that other assets have (such as stocks), and there’s a lack of historical data to research for investors.

And one other important thing to keep in mind is that the crypto ecosystem is still rife with scams and fraud. So, be careful before making any big-money moves.

The Takeaway

Crypto collectibles comprise NFTs and the entire world of non-fungible digital assets. They can be bought, sold, and otherwise traded on exchanges and digital marketplaces, and their values are largely determined by the overall market. In other words, a crypto collectible’s value can be as much or as little as someone is willing to pay for it.

FAQ

Are crypto collectibles a type of NFT?

It’s more accurate to say that NFTs are a type of crypto collectible. In fact, they’re the main type — NFTs are digitized tokens of items that are then bought and sold in the cryptocurrency ecosystem, although they’re not cryptocurrencies themselves.

How much can crypto collectibles sell for?

Theoretically, there’s no limit to what a crypto collectible could sell for. Collectibles trade on the open market, and their value is thus determined by the market. They can sell for as much as an investor or collector is willing to pay for them. In some cases, crypto collectibles have fetched tens of millions of dollars.

Photo credit: iStock/AntonioSolano

Crypto: Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies aren’t endorsed or guaranteed by any government, are volatile, and involve a high degree of risk. Consumer protection and securities laws don’t regulate cryptocurrencies to the same degree as traditional brokerage and investment products. Research and knowledge are essential prerequisites before engaging with any cryptocurrency. US regulators, including FINRA , the SEC , and the CFPB , have issued public advisories concerning digital asset risk. Cryptocurrency purchases should not be made with funds drawn from financial products including student loans, personal loans, mortgage refinancing, savings, retirement funds or traditional investments. Limitations apply to trading certain crypto assets and may not be available to residents of all states.

SoFi Invest®
INVESTMENTS ARE NOT FDIC INSURED • ARE NOT BANK GUARANTEED • MAY LOSE VALUE
SoFi Invest encompasses two distinct companies, with various products and services offered to investors as described below: Individual customer accounts may be subject to the terms applicable to one or more of these platforms.
1) Automated Investing and advisory services are provided by SoFi Wealth LLC, an SEC-registered investment adviser (“SoFi Wealth“). Brokerage services are provided to SoFi Wealth LLC by SoFi Securities LLC.
2) Active Investing and brokerage services are provided by SoFi Securities LLC, Member FINRA (www.finra.org)/SIPC(www.sipc.org). Clearing and custody of all securities are provided by APEX Clearing Corporation.
For additional disclosures related to the SoFi Invest platforms described above please visit SoFi.com/legal.
Neither the Investment Advisor Representatives of SoFi Wealth, nor the Registered Representatives of SoFi Securities are compensated for the sale of any product or service sold through any SoFi Invest platform.

²Terms and conditions apply. Earn a bonus (as described below) when you open a new SoFi Digital Assets LLC account and buy at least $50 worth of any cryptocurrency within 7 days. The offer only applies to new crypto accounts, is limited to one per person, and expires on December 31, 2023. Once conditions are met and the account is opened, you will receive your bonus within 7 days. SoFi reserves the right to change or terminate the offer at any time without notice.

First Trade Amount		Bonus Payout
Low	High	Bonus Payout
$50	$99.99	$10
$100	$499.99	$15
$500	$4,999.99	$50
$5,000+		$100

SOIN0221033

Nov

2022

Guide to How to Invest in Blockchain

By Laurel Tincher | Growing Wealth, invest, Investing | Comments Off

Blockchain technology has grown way beyond its roots as the foundation of most cryptocurrencies into an expansive tech sector that investors may want to consider. For those wondering how to invest in blockchain, there are multiple opportunities, from trading crypto to investing in companies that are developing new uses for blockchain.

The transparent, digital ledger known as blockchain is associated primarily with different types of crypto, but it has a rapidly growing number of use cases across many sectors: health care, law, real estate, finance, international trade, and more.

For investors willing to do their due diligence, and understand the risks involved, there are opportunities in the blockchain space.

A Look At Blockchain Technology

In order to understand what blockchain tech is, it helps to know the basics of how a blockchain works. While blockchain was the innovation in 2009 that made Bitcoin — and the entire cryptosphere — possible, numerous applications for blockchain technology have emerged since then.

Think of blockchain technology as a sort of next-level, digital infrastructure. It’s a transparent, append-only digital ledger that can be used to track or record almost any type of asset, from goods and services to patents, smart contracts, decentralized apps (dApps), and more.

Blockchain technology relies on cryptography and a system of peer-to-peer (P2P) verification to secure transactions and, in the case of cryptocurrency, to mine coins and tokens. Because the security of blockchain is critical to how it functions, complex consensus algorithms are used on each network.

Although most people think crypto goes hand-in-hand with blockchain, in fact blockchain technology is increasingly common for a range of digital products and functions. Anything that requires an immutable ledger, contract agreement, or data transaction record can use blockchain — such as real estate transactions, legal agreements, voting records, supply-chain tracking, and much, much more.

What Does Investing in Blockchain Mean?

Can you invest in blockchain? While you cannot invest directly in a blockchain itself — a blockchain can’t be owned by investors — there are multiple ways to invest in blockchain technology, and a growing number of sectors that use it.

• By investing in crypto, you can think beyond the coin to what the entire crypto project is trying to create using its particular blockchain capabilities. The blockchain that supports the Ethereum network has different capabilities than the one that supports Bitcoin, Dogecoin, Litecoin, and so on.

• You can invest in blockchain stocks and other securities, like exchange-traded funds (more on that below), initial coin offerings (ICOs), and cryptocurrency trusts. While many of these investment products are new, and may come with risks, they may also present new opportunities.

Investing in blockchain technology is a way to participate in the evolution of a whole new part of the market, which includes DeFi (decentralized finance) companies, digital securities, crypto exchanges — as well as existing sectors like real estate and supply chain management that are increasingly embracing blockchain.

Investing in Blockchain vs. Investing in Cryptocurrencies

Because blockchain is a big part of how cryptocurrency works, buying crypto is one way to invest in blockchain. Investing in cryptocurrencies means buying individual tokens that can be used within the blockchain technology ecosystem. And because each coin or token is so different, reflecting the blockchain it’s based on, interested investors can explore different types of crypto as a way of investing in different blockchain capabilities.

For example, some blockchains are programmed to support the execution of smart contracts, the creation of non-fungible tokens (NFTs), the cross-border transfer of funds, and much more. By owning the crypto that’s part of that ecosystem, you’re essentially investing in that blockchain. But there are many other ways to invest in blockchain today.

5 Ways to Invest in Blockchain

Here are some of the other ways to invest in blockchain. Because this is an evolving space, it’s important to carefully weigh the potential risks, as well as the likely costs, of some of these investments:

1. Purchasing Crypto ETFs, Trusts, and Other Investments

While investing in crypto can give you access to blockchain as an investment, Wall Street has found a few ways to make crypto more accessible to institutional investors through the use of crypto exchange-traded funds (ETFs), crypto trusts, crypto index funds, and other securities.

Bear in mind that investing in funds that invest in crypto can be a risky proposition — and one that removes the investor another step from investing in actual blockchain technology.

And although these crypto investments may sound similar to traditional investments that can be bought and sold by main street investors, these funds are typically available only to institutional or accredited investors and they are traded on over-the-counter (OTC) markets. OTC markets are known to be less liquid and more risky.

There are some products available to retail investors, such as ETFs that track companies that have exposure to blockchain technology. These may be a more direct route to investing in blockchain.

2. Initial Coin Offerings (ICOs)

When a new cryptocurrency gets created, oftentimes the developers hold an initial coin offering, or ICO, which allows people to purchase the tokens early in order to support the project and get a good price before the project launches.

ICOs, similar to initial public offerings of stock (IPOs), can be accompanied by a fair amount of public discussion about the merits of the new coin, and the technology it’s built on. For investors interested in finding the next blockchain investment for their portfolios, an ICO could provide an interesting opportunity.

3. Purchasing Cryptocurrencies

While this point was addressed above, it’s important to underscore that there are thousands of different types of cryptocurrencies that investors can buy and sell, each one with its own dedicated blockchain.

Unlike traditional fiat currencies, which are used as a means of exchange and a store of value, crypto often serves multiple functions on its dedicated blockchain. This is another reason to invest in crypto as a way to invest in various blockchains.

4. Investing in Blockchain-Based Businesses

When it comes to investing in blockchain technology stocks, there are a lot of options. The blockchain ecosystem is complex, involving developers, exchanges, miners, data, security, and more. There are also companies that aren’t directly making blockchain technology, but are using it for their existing business to streamline systems and increase efficiency. These include large corporations such as Walmart, Starbucks, IBM, Meta, and Amazon.

Buying shares in blockchain companies can be a great long-term strategy, since this industry is just getting started. Here are some of the subcategories of blockchain that one could invest in:

Decentralized Finance

Decentralized Finance (DeFi) shifts the control of financial transactions away from centralized financial institutions, such as banks. The goal of DeFi is increased transparency and efficiency, lower fees, and putting people in charge of their own money. Examples of DeFi include crypto wallets, peer-to-peer lending, and cryptocurrency exchanges.

DeFi wouldn’t be possible without blockchain technology. By investing in different aspects of the DeFi space, investors are essentially investing in the relevant blockchains and blockchain technology that supports these financial innovations.

Financial Technology

Related to the above: Financial Technology (Fintech) is a type of technology that improves upon financial services.

Blockchain technology plays a big role in fintech, as it is being used to revolutionize all aspects of legacy finance, from banking to lending and transacting.

Metaverse

The metaverse is essentially where the digital world intersects the material world. It includes technologies such as virtual reality, augmented reality, and online interactive virtual worlds. Users engage in immersive and interactive experiences for education, work, entertainment, and socializing.

Not everything in the metaverse uses blockchain technology, but many companies, such as game developers and social media platforms, are using cryptocurrency tokens within their virtual worlds, or recording data and transactions from those worlds on the blockchain. In other words, investing in the metaverse is essentially investing in blockchain technology.

Exchanges

Another way to invest in blockchain by investing directly in cryptocurrencies is to invest in stocks of cryptocurrency exchange companies, such as Coinbase (COIN). Exchanges allow people to buy, sell, and exchange different cryptocurrencies. Coinbase is a popular cryptocurrency exchange that is publicly traded on the Nasdaq.

Blockchain and Health Care

Blockchain is revolutionizing the health care system, and this transition is only just beginning. Blockchain can help with secure and efficient sharing of sensitive patient data, allowing health information to be used both within organizations and across the broader medical system. It can also help with healthcare contracts and negotiations, including healthcare insurance.

5. NFTs

Non-fungible tokens (NFTs) are cryptographic digital assets. Their data is stored on the blockchain, ensuring that they can’t be replicated or forged.

Pretty much anything can be tokenized, from real estate to music to art. Currently, most of the NFT market is focused on collectibles like sports cards and digital art. But there are other highly priced NFTs on the market, such as a tokenized version of the first-ever tweet.

Individuals can purchase NFTs and resell them for a profit if their value increases.

The Takeaway

Blockchain technology has become a tech sector that many investors may want to consider. For those wondering how to invest in blockchain, there are multiple opportunities, from trading crypto itself (which gives investors exposure to that crypto’s underlying blockchain), to investing in companies that are developing new uses for blockchain in many areas: health care, law, real estate, finance, international trade, and more.

Buying shares in blockchain companies can be a great long-term strategy, since this industry is just getting started. While you can’t invest directly in a blockchain (blockchain is the digital infrastructure organizations use to run various operations), you can invest in companies that use blockchain for decentralized finance, to run crypto exchanges, to create smart contracts, NFTs, and more.

FAQ

Can you invest directly in a blockchain?

No. Blockchain is a technology that is used for many purposes. There is no way to invest directly in a blockchain, but there are many ways to invest in companies developing and using blockchain technology.

How can you make money from blockchain?

You can potentially make money from blockchain by investing in stocks or ETFs focused on blockchain companies, purchasing individual cryptocurrencies, or initial coin offerings (ICOs).

What are some applications of blockchain technology?

Blockchain technology can be used for anything that requires a digital, append-only, immutable ledger of transactions or data storage. This includes money transactions, real estate transactions, voting records, supply chain tracking, and more.

Photo credit: iStock/Poike

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Crypto: Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies aren’t endorsed or guaranteed by any government, are volatile, and involve a high degree of risk. Consumer protection and securities laws don’t regulate cryptocurrencies to the same degree as traditional brokerage and investment products. Research and knowledge are essential prerequisites before engaging with any cryptocurrency. US regulators, including FINRA , the SEC , and the CFPB , have issued public advisories concerning digital asset risk. Cryptocurrency purchases should not be made with funds drawn from financial products including student loans, personal loans, mortgage refinancing, savings, retirement funds or traditional investments. Limitations apply to trading certain crypto assets and may not be available to residents of all states.

²Terms and conditions apply. Earn a bonus (as described below) when you open a new SoFi Digital Assets LLC account and buy at least $50 worth of any cryptocurrency within 7 days. The offer only applies to new crypto accounts, is limited to one per person, and expires on December 31, 2023. Once conditions are met and the account is opened, you will receive your bonus within 7 days. SoFi reserves the right to change or terminate the offer at any time without notice.

First Trade Amount		Bonus Payout
Low	High	Bonus Payout
$50	$99.99	$10
$100	$499.99	$15
$500	$4,999.99	$50
$5,000+		$100

SOIN0422045

Nov

2022

What Is a Luxury Item and Tips for Budgeting for One

What Is a Luxury Good?

By Alene Laney | Budgeting & Goals, money | Comments Off

Luxury goods are sometimes called the finer things in life. Think about those fancy sports cars, watches, handbags, shoes, and jewelry that can cost a mint. Those beautiful objects of desire are not at all necessary to support basic human needs, but they may make life a lot more enjoyable.

Demand for luxury goods is typically driven by perceived value (that is, being a status symbol) as much as product quality and design. Brand awareness is an important aspect of the luxury market. These high-end items from exclusive brands are expensive, putting them out of reach of many consumers, which can add to their allure.

If you’re simply curious about luxury goods or contemplating buying some, read on to understand what makes them special. You’ll learn:

• What is a luxury good?

• What makes luxury items different from other goods?

• Examples of luxury goods.

• The pros and cons of buying luxury items.

• How to afford luxury goods.

What Makes a Luxury Good ‘Luxury’?

Luxury items are defined by their exclusivity and higher cost, which limits access to them. To put it simply, they are expensive! Once a luxury item becomes more readily available at a lower price point, it may lose its appeal, and demand wanes.

Different cultures around the globe have varying tastes about what luxury goods are. That is, what is considered a highly desirable luxury good in one society may not be as valuable in another. However, there are brands that have become international icons of living well; you’ll learn more about them shortly.

Luxury goods are linked to the economics term “conspicuous consumption,” which occurs when consumers buy higher priced goods to display their wealth and class status. People who want to publicly communicate their economic and social status will buy luxury goods that signal that message. Purchasing luxury goods is typically tied to a consumer having more expendable cash. The item may not exactly be affordable given their income, but it could be more accessible as a splurge as their earning power rises.

Examples of Luxury Items

What exactly is a luxury item? There are lots of examples in the $300 billion industry. Luxury products have traditionally included aspirational items, such as:

• Yachts

• Top-of-the-line cars

• Fine and antique furniture

• Art

• Furs

• Watches

• Jewelry

• Designer clothing and handbags

• Wine

• State-of-the-art electronics

• Cosmetics and fragrances

You’ll likely see some familiar names in the luxury goods market. Many companies have established themselves as luxury brands with their exclusive products.

Some of the top, recognizable luxury brands include:

• Porsche

• Ferrari

• Chanel

• Hermes

• Balenciaga

• Alexander McQueen

• Louis Vuitton

• Burberry

• Gucci

• Cartier

• Tiffany & Co.

• Rolex

• Dior

• Prada

• Bulgari

When you see those names when shopping, you probably are looking at what are known as luxury items.

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Open a SoFi Checking and Savings Account with direct deposit and get up to a $300 cash bonus. Plus, get up to 4.60% APY on your cash!

Pros of Purchasing Luxury Goods

If you’re looking at purchasing a luxury item for the first time, there’s more to it than its price tag. Purchasing a luxury item can bring other benefits. These can include:

• Status

• Better quality products

• Better service at retail locations or service centers

• Better resale value than other goods

• Strong value appreciation in some goods (such as jewelry or art)

• Exclusivity

Cons of Purchasing Luxury Goods

Conversely, purchasing a luxury item isn’t always a good idea. Some of the downsides to purchasing luxury goods include:

• High cost

• Money used to purchase a luxury good could be used elsewhere

• Can lead to more conspicuous consumption

• Depreciation on certain goods may be high

• Can undermine confidence; some people wind up feeling inauthentic (as if they are “faking it”) after spending a lot of cash on luxury items

Quick Money Tip:When you overdraft your checking account, you’ll likely pay a non-sufficient fund fee of, say, $35. Look into linking a savings account to your checking account as a backup to avoid that, or shop around for an online bank that doesn’t charge you for overdrafting.

Luxury Goods vs Normal Goods: What’s the Difference?

Buying normal goods means you are buying items whose cost increases at the same rate as your income increases. If you, say, shopped for clothing at garage sales to save money at the beginning of your career, and now you spend money on clothing at a traditional retailer, your consumption increased to the higher-priced clothing at the same rate as your income increased. These goods are within a reasonable range given your earning power.

Compare that with what is a luxury good. In this case, the cost of consumption increases, but not at the same rate as income. The price tag for a luxury item is often exponentially more than could be afforded by one’s salary raises.

Luxury Goods vs Inferior Goods: What’s the Difference?

According to the principles taught in economics class, an inferior good is one whose consumption decreases as a consumer’s income increases. If you ate ramen in college, for example, but no longer consume them now that you’re making more money in your career, that pack of noodles is an example of an inferior good. Your consumption of it decreased as you made more money.

Typically, with luxury goods, consumption increases with a higher income; with an inferior good, consumption decreases with a higher income.

Tips for Affording a Luxury Item

If you’re gunning for that aspirational luxury item and you weren’t born with a hefty trust fund, you’ll need to adopt some stellar financial habits to snag one (or more) of these pricey items. You can learn how to afford luxury items without paying full price for them. Here are some tactics to try.

Saving for a Luxury Good

Saving up for a luxury item and then paying in cash can be a good strategy. Whether the object you’re craving is a handbag or a sports car, you won’t feel guilty about spending money when you’ve stashed the money away for it and can pay without creating credit card debt. If you automate your savings for the luxury item, you may well reach your goal without too much effort.

Waiting for Sales

Even luxury goods can go on sale, though perhaps less often than with lower-priced items. Even if you miss their sales, you may be able to find some premium items discounted at outlet stores.

Avoiding Trends

When saving for that luxury item, it can be wise to avoid trendy luxury products. Those probably won’t stay in style for long, and if you’re making a major purchase, it can be smarter to spend your money on things that will last.

Recommended: Tips to Stop Overspending

Renting Luxury Items Over Buying

You might want to consider renting a luxury item rather than paying loads of money to own it. For instance, you could lease a luxury car for a while and see if you truly love it. And there are many businesses that rent designer clothing and handbags, such as Rent The Runway and Bag Borrow or Steal. That can give you a taste of luxury at a more affordable price point.

Lowering Your Other Expenses

If you’re really set on affording a luxury item, see where else you can cut back on spending. Knowing you’d rather own a luxury car than go out every weekend can help you feel more motivated to cut back on dining and entertainment expenses.

Buying Pre-Owned

Another way to afford luxury items is to buy ones that have been pre-owned. From BMWs to Louis Vuitton handbags, there’s a large marketplace for gently used posh goods. How to afford luxury items can be a matter of being the second owner rather than the first of the item you desire.

The Takeaway

Now that you know what a luxury good is, you probably realize that such items are usually quite costly. They can also be of superior quality and retain their value better. Owning them can also be an ego boost and a source of pride.

Saving to obtain luxury goods can help you cultivate good financial habits, which in turn can help you reach other goals and build wealth.

Better banking is here with SoFi, NerdWallet’s 2024 winner for Best Checking Account Overall. Enjoy up to 4.60% APY on SoFi Checking and Savings.

FAQ

Why do people buy luxury goods?

Luxury goods can signal exclusivity, wealth, and a higher social status. People who buy luxury goods typically want to communicate this to themselves and others. Also, luxury items are often very well made and can last for many years.

Do luxury goods have high resale value?

Luxury goods, especially when in excellent condition, can have a high resale value. Some brands, such as Chanel and Hermes, have a better resale value than others. Jewelry by well-known brands (like Tiffany & Co.) tend to hold their value well too.

Does luxury always mean expensive?

A luxury item is typically highly desirable and very exclusive, which is usually tied to the amount of money it costs to obtain it. However, many luxury brands produce cheaper alternatives of their signature products to sell to more consumers at a more affordable cost. The Coach outlet stores are one example that luxury items don’t always have to be expensive, and the Mercedes A220 starts at about $35,000.

Photo credit: iStock/MoustacheGirl

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.

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.

SoFi® Checking and Savings is offered through SoFi Bank, N.A. ©2023 SoFi Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender.
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.

SoFi members with direct deposit activity can earn 4.60% annual percentage yield (APY) on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. Direct Deposit means a deposit to an account holder’s SoFi Checking or Savings account, including payroll, pension, or government payments (e.g., Social Security), made by the account holder’s employer, payroll or benefits provider or government agency (“Direct Deposit”) via the Automated Clearing House (“ACH”) Network during a 30-day Evaluation Period (as defined below). Deposits that are not from an employer or government agency, including but not limited to check deposits, peer-to-peer transfers (e.g., transfers from PayPal, Venmo, etc.), merchant transactions (e.g., transactions from PayPal, Stripe, Square, etc.), and bank ACH funds transfers and wire transfers from external accounts, do not constitute Direct Deposit activity. There is no minimum Direct Deposit amount required to qualify for the stated interest rate.

SoFi members with Qualifying Deposits can earn 4.60% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. Qualifying Deposits means one or more deposits that, in the aggregate, are equal to or greater than $5,000 to an account holder’s SoFi Checking and Savings account (“Qualifying Deposits”) during a 30-day Evaluation Period (as defined below). Qualifying Deposits only include those deposits from the following eligible sources: (i) ACH transfers, (ii) inbound wire transfers, (iii) peer-to-peer transfers (i.e., external transfers from PayPal, Venmo, etc. and internal peer-to-peer transfers from a SoFi account belonging to another account holder), (iv) check deposits, (v) instant funding to your SoFi Bank Debit Card, (vi) push payments to your SoFi Bank Debit Card, and (vii) cash deposits. Qualifying Deposits do not include: (i) transfers between an account holder’s Checking account, Savings account, and/or Vaults; (ii) interest payments; (iii) bonuses issued by SoFi Bank or its affiliates; or (iv) credits, reversals, and refunds from SoFi Bank, N.A. (“SoFi Bank”) or from a merchant.

SoFi Bank shall, in its sole discretion, assess each account holder’s Direct Deposit activity and Qualifying Deposits throughout each 30-Day Evaluation Period to determine the applicability of rates and may request additional documentation for verification of eligibility. The 30-Day Evaluation Period refers to the “Start Date” and “End Date” set forth on the APY Details page of your account, which comprises a period of 30 calendar days (the “30-Day Evaluation Period”). You can access the APY Details page at any time by logging into your SoFi account on the SoFi mobile app or SoFi website and selecting either (i) Banking > Savings > Current APY or (ii) Banking > Checking > Current APY. Upon receiving a Direct Deposit or $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits to your account, you will begin earning 4.60% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% on checking balances on or before the following calendar day. You will continue to earn these APYs for (i) the remainder of the current 30-Day Evaluation Period and through the end of the subsequent 30-Day Evaluation Period and (ii) any following 30-day Evaluation Periods during which SoFi Bank determines you to have Direct Deposit activity or $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits without interruption.

SoFi Bank reserves the right to grant a grace period to account holders following a change in Direct Deposit activity or Qualifying Deposits activity before adjusting rates. If SoFi Bank grants you a grace period, the dates for such grace period will be reflected on the APY Details page of your account. If SoFi Bank determines that you did not have Direct Deposit activity or $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits during the current 30-day Evaluation Period and, if applicable, the grace period, then you will begin earning the rates earned by account holders without either Direct Deposit or Qualifying Deposits until you have Direct Deposit activity or $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits in a subsequent 30-Day Evaluation Period. For the avoidance of doubt, an account holder with both Direct Deposit activity and Qualifying Deposits will earn the rates earned by account holders with Direct Deposit.

Members without either Direct Deposit activity or Qualifying Deposits, as determined by SoFi Bank, during a 30-Day Evaluation Period and, if applicable, the grace period, will earn 1.20% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances.

Interest rates are variable and subject to change at any time. These rates are current as of 10/24/2023. There is no minimum balance requirement. Additional information can be found at https://www.sofi.com/legal/banking-rate-sheet.

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Oct

2022

Getting a High-Limit Credit Card: How It Works

By Dan Miller | Credit, credit card | Comments Off

Having a high credit limit can be a good idea for a variety of reasons. First of all, if your credit limit is too low, it may make it hard to use your card for your regular monthly expenses. Having a high credit limit can positively impact your credit score as well. You’ll just make sure that having a credit card with a high limit doesn’t influence you to spend more than your budget allows.

Before you move forward with securing a high-limit credit card, you’ll want to know your options for how to get a high-limit credit card. If you’re worried about securing the highest credit card limit possible, there are a couple factors you’ll want to take into account, too.

What Is a High-Limit Credit Card?

For reference, the average credit card limit for Americans was $30,365 in 2020, according to data from the credit bureau Experian. So if you have a credit card with a limit above that average, you may consider that to be a high-limit credit card.

In general, however, there isn’t a specific dollar amount that makes a credit card a “high-limit” credit card. What’s considered a high credit card spending limit for some people may not be a high limit for others with a different financial situation. Keep in mind that higher credit limits generally require excellent credit to qualify for, meaning a score of 800 and up.

How Can a Higher Credit Limit Help You?

There are two ways that having a credit card with a higher credit limit can help your financial situation.

First, increasing your credit card limit can make it easier to manage your monthly finances. If your credit limit is at or below the amount of your average monthly expenses, you may find it difficult to manage your budget without having to make additional credit card payments.

Second, having a higher credit limit will decrease your credit utilization rate, which can have a positive impact on your credit score. Your credit utilization rate looks at how much of your available credit you’re using, and the less you’re using, the better it is for your credit score. If you increase your credit limit but don’t add to your current balances, you’ll end up using a lower percentage of your available limit.

Factors to Consider

There are a couple factors you’ll want to consider before attempting to get a high-limit credit card.

The Timing

First, make sure that the timing is right for you and your specific financial situation. Your credit card limit is determined by the financial information you provide on your credit card application, especially your income. If you’re in a situation where your income is about to increase (either due to an upcoming bonus, a change in job, or something else), you may want to wait until after your income increases before trying to get a high-limit credit card.

Your Credit Report

Credit card issuers also look at your credit report when choosing whether to issue you a credit card and how much of a credit line to extend. Make sure that you check your credit report before applying and ensure that there are no errors or discrepancies. If there are any errors, you can contact the credit bureaus to have them fixed.

Options for Getting a High-Limit Credit Card

If you think you’re well-positioned to ask for an increase, here are your potential options for how to get a credit card with a high limit — or at least a higher limit than what you currently have.

Contact Your Card Issuer

If you already have a credit card that you enjoy using and want to keep, you can try to contact your card issuer to request a higher limit. You may be able to do so by calling the number listed on the back of your credit card or sending a message online. Explain the credit limit you’re looking for and why you feel that it’s justified.

This approach may be a good idea if your financial situation has improved since you opened the card. This could be due to an increase in income, a new job, or paying down other debt.

Look Out for Automatic Increases

Many card issuers will regularly review the accounts of their cardholders. In some cases, they’ll automatically and proactively increase your credit limit if you’ve been using your credit card responsibly. This is especially common for cards with lower initial limits and cards designed for those with a less robust credit history.

If your issuer has not already increased your credit limit, you can contact them and ask for a higher limit.

Apply for a New Card

Another option is applying for a new card. If you’re not happy with your current credit card or if your current card issuer will not increase your credit limit, getting a new credit card can be another option.

Before applying, make sure that you have checked your credit report for any inaccuracies and paid down outstanding debt if possible. That will help improve your odds of getting a higher credit limit.

How High Should Your Credit Limit Be?

There is not a set amount for how high your credit limit should be. Instead, it depends on your specific financial situation.

Aim for a credit limit that is at least twice the average amount you spend on your credit card each month. That will help keep your credit utilization percentage low. And remember that the absolute best thing you can do to help your credit score is to pay your statement off in full, each and every month.

Recommended: What is the Average Credit Card Limit

Choosing the Best High-Limit Credit Card

Many premium and luxury credit cards will offer relatively high credit limits, especially if you have a high credit score and a high income. So instead of looking for the credit card that gives you the absolute highest limit, you might instead consider the overall perks and benefits of each different card. When evaluating different cards, some things to look out for include:

• Rewards: Take a look at whether a credit card offers rewards and if so, in what form. Perhaps you’d prefer to earn cash-back rewards for the simplicity over credit card points. From there, compare to see which card offers a more generous rewards rate and has better redemption options.

• Annual fees: You’ll also want to look at whether a card charges an annual rate. If it does, do the math to see if the rewards you’ll earn can offset this cost.

• Customer service: If you were ever to have an issue with your credit card, it’s important to have a reliable customer support team to turn to. When weighing which card to get, take into account the reputation of their customer support and general customer satisfaction.

• Luxury or travel perks: Beyond rewards, many credit cards also offer an array of other benefits. This can include rental car insurance, travel insurance, discounts for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck, airport lounge access, hotel stays, and more.

• Sign-up bonuses: A generous welcome bonus can also help you decide between two otherwise comparable cards. Some credit cards offer bonus cash-back rewards or points when cardholders spend a certain amount within a specific period of time after opening the card.

Recommended: What is a Charge Card

Alternatives to High-Limit Credit Cards

If you’re not able to qualify for a high-limit credit card or simply aren’t sure it’s the right route for you, there are other options to explore instead.

Recommended: How to Avoid Interest On a Credit Card

Home Equity Loan or Home Equity Line of Credit

Depending on what you’re using your credit card for and why you want a high credit limit, you might consider a home equity loan or home equity line of credit (HELOC). Both a home equity loan and a HELOC allow you to capture some of the equity in your home. You can then use that money for other expenses.

Business Line of Credit

If you have a business that’s looking for extra flexibility with accounts receivable and ongoing payments, you might consider a business line of credit. While there are business credit cards that offer high limits, you might be better off with an actual business line of credit. Business lines of credit often base their credit limits based on the monthly or annual gross or net income of the business.

Personal Loan

Another option to consider might be a personal loan, especially if you have good credit and/or a relatively high income. Qualifying for a personal loan can give you money upfront in exchange for regular monthly payments. You can then use that money for whatever projects or expenses make sense for your situation.

Recommended: When Are Credit Card Payments Due

The Takeaway

There can be advantages to having a high-limit credit card, like added flexibility in managing your monthly finances as well as the possibility of improving your credit score. Just make sure that you remain focused and diligent in paying off your statement in full, each and every month. You don’t want a higher credit limit on your credit card to encourage you to spend more.

Whether you're looking to build credit, apply for a new credit card, or save money with the cards you have, it's important to understand the options that are best for you. Learn more about credit cards by exploring this credit card guide.

FAQ

Can you get an unlimited credit limit?

Unless you are ultra-wealthy or have a very special relationship with your credit card issuer, you’re unlikely to get a credit card with no limit at all. There are, however, some credit cards (like the American Express Platinum card) that have no preset credit card spending limit. That means that instead of a standard credit limit, your limit is flexible and may go up and down as your spending habits change.

Should I get a credit card with a higher limit?

Before deciding to get a credit card with a higher limit, you should ask yourself why you want to increase your limit. Is it to better manage your monthly finances? Are you trying to lower your credit card utilization? These can both be good reasons to increase your credit limit. But if you’re just trying to increase it to use as a status symbol or “just because,” you may want to think twice before doing it.

What is the highest credit card limit?

There isn’t a definitive and published answer for the highest possible credit limit. Credit limits are issued to individuals and businesses based on their credit history and income. It’s not unreasonable to think that there are credit cards with a six- or even seven-figure limit. As a data point, the average credit card limit for Americans was $30,365 in 2020.

How can I get a higher credit limit?

The best way to see if you qualify for a higher credit limit is to contact your issuer. You can call the number on the back of your card or reach out via your online account. If you’ve been regularly using your card and paying your bill in full, your issuer may agree to increase your limit. If your income or other financial situation has changed, that’s another reason to contact your issuer and see if you can get a higher credit limit.

Photo credit: iStock/Prostock-Studio

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: Many factors affect your credit scores and the interest rates you may receive. SoFi is not a Credit Repair Organization as defined under federal or state law, including the Credit Repair Organizations Act. SoFi does not provide “credit repair” services or advice or assistance regarding “rebuilding” or “improving” your credit record, credit history, or credit rating. For details, see the FTC’s website .

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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