Finance, Investments, Wealth and Asset Management: How to Avoid Fraud

There is a plethora of investment opportunities that could potentially lead to wealth accumulation. However the same schemes could inadvertently make you a victim of fraud if you do not take the time to understand who is really looking after your money. Risk is the only way to earn profit from entrepreneurship but that risk must be carefully calculated and weighed against all the available information that you have. Here are two tips you might want to consider:

1.      The manager must never handle the cash

It is a simple but very effective principle which applies for every single investment opportunity. There are two distinct roles that must remain separate. The custodian is responsible for holding the securities, cash and accounting information for any transaction. The money manager provides advice and executes the investment transactions.

These must be two entirely separate entities so that there is an in-built protection against potential fraud. The custodian is required to send accounting statements directly to the client so that the investment manager cannot amend or tamper with the records. Madoff would not have occurred if this simple tip had been implemented by the hapless investors who were cheated out of millions of dollars.

2.      Do not get involved if there is no accreditation

Only hire and work with people who are not only qualified in the field; but also have accreditation from recognized professional bodies. This helps in two ways. First of all the accrediting body will have done background checks and ethical training for the companies or individuals involved. That means that even if you had a problem down the line, they could intervene and assist with the investigation. The other criteria is that people who are accredited normally fear losing that accreditation because it means that they are publicly outed and will never work again.

The best accreditation body is CFA but there are other alternatives including CIM, PFP, CFP and CSC. Do not just look at the application form of the glossy brochure that is presented before you. Make sure that you ask questions and verify the information with the awarding body.  The Jones fraud case would not have happened had the investors checked to see whether the person selling them a pipe dream was registered with the relevant authorities.

Conclusion

Finally remember that if it looks too good to be true then it probably is. That commonsense adage could probably save most fraud victims from the heartache of losing their money. Few people believe that they could actually fall prey to a pyramid scheme or the equally notorious “Ponzi” until it actually happens in reality.

The Endorphins Slot Game Review

The themes for Gems & Stones Slot are reflected in the title. It is lots of jewels and money. The screen is packed with shiny precious stuff. A navy blue background complements a rather fetching array of black and golden ornaments. It gives of the impression of a premier casino. Its sound is hushed and refined; emphasizing the luxurious theme.

Bonus Features

They offer free spins on a regular basis. It happens when at least three scatter symbols come into your view. Gems & Stones Slot allows you to increase the wins if you spin more on the selected reel and for longer. The free spinning feature is good enough to compensate for the lack of bonus games.

No. Of Rows

The rows are not specified but the bet per line is between 0.01 and 50. The maximum bet is 500 with a payout which is x5000. Auto play is allowed and the theoretical return for Gems & Stones Slot is 95.05%. Registration is required.

No. Of Reels

There are 5 reels which include a set of standard reel symbols. This first category is low paying but is then complemented by the scatter and bonus symbols which increase earnings. Watch out for the Gem Box which is the key to exponentially increasing earnings. The scatter is the wild symbol on the Gems & Stones Slot. It is useful for expanding the winning combinations.

No. Of Paylines

This game has 10 pay lines which are more than sufficient to expand earnings. With its various language options, this is a truly international game. The website has good indicators and explanations for each of the paylines.

Coin Sizes

The wide-ranging coin sizes of 0.01-50 means that you can play Gems & Stones Slot at any level. Watch out for the Sapphire reel which can potentially give you five spinners on any line. The combinations are relatively simple and any novice will be able to work out which coin earns them what.

Jackpot Amount

The potential 5000 coin jackpot is a real allure. This game has a certified payout percentage with a higher than usual RTP. It is a relic of the Endorphina formula. The rules are clear and easy to follow too.

Verdict

There is lots of interest in Gems & Stones Slot for very good reasons. First of all it plays well and the interface is user-friendly. The graphics and symbols are basic but that allows the player to focus on the real business of winning. This is a gem of sorts.

What are the Best Cameras? A Guide for Beginners and Amateurs

Often in photography; less is more, particularly for amateurs and beginners. High specifications with impossible user guides can become a whole course in themselves, bordering on a degree in using a camera. This guide focuses on best cameras for beginners with tips for making your life easy even as you explore this wonderful pastime.

(i)                 You should do better than the smartphone

At the very least your new camera should be better than the smartphone in terms of handling and the output that you get. For this we recommend the Canon 1200D (T5) at $400. It comes with a great 18-55 mm kit lens and can produce 18 megapixels with its CMOS sensor. Most importantly it has a companion app to get you going.

(ii)               Look for portability and malleability

It is not a good idea for a beginning to be carrying pounds upon pounds of camera. You will already be intimidated enough without fiddling about with a gigantic piece of hardware. Therefore we recommend the Canon EOS 1200D (Rebel T5) which is a nice little number. It is good enough to give you excellent images regardless of whether you are in the light or in the dark.  Its Full HD 1080p video at 30 fps qualifies this to be one of the best cameras for beginners.

(iii)             Never lose your sense of fun

This is supposed to be a wonderful new experience for you. Get a camera that has some spice and verve instead of going for the dull also-runs that everybody has. We certainly think that the Canon 1200D (T5) fits the bill with its 18-55-mm kit lens. If you want to try another brand then the Nikon D3300 works equally as well with its 24.2-megapixel APS-C 23.5 x 15.6 mm CMOS sensor.

(iv)             Stick to your budget

This is not the time to rob the bank in order to puff up your vanity. Beginners should start slow and then build up until they can handle the most expensive cameras fluently and confidently. That is why we recommend the Pentax K-S1 which costs a reasonable $350 and is quite modern in its design. Its ISO range can go up to 51200 and it is capable of burst shooting at 5.4 fps.

Conclusion

It is certainly true that the best camera for beginners is that one which is able to introduce them to great photography without overwhelming them with technical specifications. You also need to drive a hard bargain so that you can save later for the really technical stuff. 

How to Select the Best Protein Powder When Trying to Lose Weight

Losing weight is never an easy process. Those people that choose the purely physical means like exercise face incredible rigors that tax the body to its very limits. Likewise starvation or semi-starvation will be doggedly resisted by the body and the dieter could end up piling on the pounds instead. It is from this background that these tips on choosing the best protein powder for weight loss are discussed below.

Variety is the Spice of Life

There are many flavors to suit virtually any preference. For example: soy, vanilla, cake, orange, chocolate and lavender are all flavors that are commonly available on the market. Apart from the taste; there are categorizations which are based on the production process. For example hydrolyzed or isolated protein shakes are considerably more expensive than the standard fare. Even as these choices are being explored; one of the most critical factors is digestibility. A product that is hard to digest or one that causes complications like constipation is not going to be suitable.

Concentration and Calorie Values

It is important that the protein powder does not actually end up adding significant amounts of calories to the person’s daily intake. That is the downside of choosing whey-based products. Invariably they are not thoroughly skimmed for impurities and their calorie values are not always clear. Although they are demonstrably cheap; the complications of using these products will most likely downgrade them to secondary status. On the other hand if they are fortified with essential vitamins and minerals then it may be worthwhile to use them as a starter pack.

Indications and Contra Indications

If the product has been prepared by a responsible manufacturer then it is likely to have a detailed list of indications and contra indications. These are important purchase criteria because they affect the health status of the individual that is using protein powder for weight loss. For fairly obvious reasons pregnant women and very young children are precluded from these types of products. Likewise if the person has a chronic illness or is otherwise physiologically compromised; it would not be appropriate to use these supplements.

Conclusion

It is highly unlikely that the first protein powder that the individual encounters will be their lifelong choice. This is a process of trial and error. Therefore it is advisable to use small samples and take advantage of any offers so as to minimize losses just in case the product is not suitable. Above all, the health of the person is critical. Only supplements that are able to enhance the person’s wellbeing should be considered.

A Review of the 2017 BMW X4

2017 BMW X4 – Introduction

This is a brand that is known for the efficiency, class and power of its output. That has not changed one bit with the 2017 BMW X4. It is straddles the lines between an outright coup and an SUV. Perhaps that is fortunate because this car is able to pool together the best of both worlds. It takes on some elements of the large X5 but is far sportier. This car has amazingly kept the technical features and luxurious attitude of the 7 series whilst bringing in a new type of dynamism which is bound to yield a lot of kudos for the already premier car maker.

2017 BMW X4 - Exterior and Interior

The 2017 BMW X4 will be able to take 5 passengers. As usual, no expense has been spared when looking for materials to use. There is the full head-up display which allows for good road focus. Pedestrian warning technology makes this one of the simplest cars to drive. Other similar perks include the lane departure warning, brake activation, collision warning and parking sensors. A remote controlled auxiliary heater means that those freezing winter days are a thing of the past. The dual zone climate control also helps to keep the summer cool. Much of the cabin is reminiscent of the X3 but with a panoramic sunroof. The car comes with top and rearview parking cameras. They have added an iDrive mounted touchpad and the car is fully prepped for Bluetooth. On the exterior you will find a 110.6” wheelbase and a vehicle that is as long as 184.3”. The width and height are 74.1” and 63.9” respectively. Ultimately the 2017 BMW X4 has a curb weight of 4253 lbs. The front is dominated by large air intakes and a prominent grille with the typical BMW round lights as well as the latest LED technology.

2017 BMW X4 - Engine and Performance

This car boasts a turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 24-valve inline-6 engine. It has an aluminum block and head with direct fuel injection. The Turbo V12 makes 600 hp and it can hit zero to 60mph in 5.2 seconds; zero to 100 mph in 13.8 seconds; and zero to 130mph in 28.7 seconds. The 2017 BMW X4 has a rolling start of 5-60 mph (6.2 seconds) and top gear speeds of 30-50mph/50-70 mph in 30 seconds. The Standing ¼-mile is 13.8 sec/100 mph. The top speed is 144mph but it is governor limited. Braking is 70-0mph in 192 feet. The roadholding for 300-ft-dia skidpad is 0.86 g. It is a powerful car with 300 hp @ 6000 rpm and a torque of 300 lb-ft @ 1200 rpm. The transmission is an 8-spped automatic but with manual shifting mode.

2017 BMW X4 - Price and Release Date

The quoted price is $63,325 with extras and a base price of $48,925. The car will be formally released in 2017 but the full dates have not been confirmed. In any case the 2017 BMW X4 is causing enough excitement to inspire a spiral of rumors and counter rumors. Its class and style mean that it is going to be yet another absolute triumph for the brand.

A Convenient and Affordable Source for Classy Wholesale Home Décor: Kole Imports Shows the Way

Few names can truly claim to be a leading source for wholesale home décor. In an era of fluid tastes and consumer supremacy, Kole Imports fits the bill in every way. With so many offers and discounts (like the 10% discount on household supplies); the buyer is spoilt for choice. This company serves organizations of all types and sizes as well as the individual buyer that is looking for value. One of the most attractive things about Kole Imports is the staggered discount which means that buyers pay less per unit if they buy more. It gives a whole new meaning to the law of increasing returns.

Wholesale Shopping Made Easy and Affordable

Those buyers that make purchases that are worth at least $1000 before the end of March 2016 will be entitled to free shipping. This is in addition to the special promotions on selected items which can reduce the list price by as much as 20%.  The outlet’s taste and attention to detail makes shopping for wholesale home décor items a dream. Furthermore Kole Imports buys customer closeouts without the need for tedious brokerage services. Payment is offered instantly upon agreement and delivery. Buyers can take advantage of the drop shipping program which significantly reduces trade costs for the retailer. In addition the website offers access to FBA services which means that orders can be delivered to Amazon fulfilment centers.  This service includes an option for in-house branding and bundling.

A Trusted and Reputable Company

Kole Imports provides the perfect opportunity to purchase good quality items from a reliable and respectable outlet. Its wholesale home décor has top grade pedigree and is sourced from the best suppliers at a cost that is very competitive. Consequently the company has been associated with big names including Staples,  Groupon and Ace. A good selection of items are available ranging from curling ribbons to large laundry-drying racks.  There is an excellent choice of categories available including toys, pet supplies and automotive interests. With over three decades worth of experience in this industry; Kole Imports puts the class back into the home decorating business. It remains one of the largest direct importers in this industry with a formidable reputation to match. Whether it is a store front looking for a reliable supplier or a not-for-profit charity seeking to upgrade its furniture on a large scale; Kole Imports remains one of the best solutions.

Is the iPhone Screen Scratch Resistant? The Hype and the Reality of Apple Consumer Electronics

The iPhone 4 might settle the point as to whether the iPhone screen scratch resistant features really work. Its Aluminosilicate glass feature is a real bonus. Gorilla glass is all the rage when it comes to mobile devices today. According to Dell Streak, it is virtually indestructible (within reason). Corning argues that their creation can withstand most types of pressure associated with normal usage and the mobile phone market has taken marketing presentation to heart. However we must seriously consider whether iPhones can really stand the pressure of everyday use.

The technical construction of brittle glass

Dr. Donnell Walton is an engineer representing Corning and is responsible for explaining the genesis of this feature. He argues that the strength of the brittle materials used can withstand compression effectively but tend to collapse when there is tension. Unfortunately iPhones manufactured in the last few years have not been able to withstand the pressure when the Apple gadget is dropped. Gorilla glass is a step-up in that respect and offers new opportunities for the manufacturer as well as the mobile phone market in general.   

The iPhone 4 holds the promise of durable screen glass

The Apple brand has put out information to the effect that their new screen is 20 times stiffer and 30 times harder than ordinary plastic. In addition they promised a screen that was remarkably scratch-resistant as a consequence of the use of aluminosilicate glass during the manufacturing process. If imitation is the highest form of flattery then Corning should be pleased because that is the same model that Apple uses in their production process. Under consumer testing, the iPhone 4 survived a 3.5 foot drop twice in succession but then cracked when a third attempt was made. Corning argues that they can beat that result.

The iPhone 5 promises even stronger glass screens

The jury is out on the ET Trade Supply leak of the purported iPhone 5 screen. Apparently it measures 0.1 mm thinner than the iPhone 4S. However the yet-unconfirmed rumors point to its superior scratch resistance. The moral of the story is that you should not drop your Apple iPhone more than 3 times or longer than 3 feet. In any case if it scratches, a coat of Turtle Wax will minimize the ugly appearance but leave the screen susceptible to unseemly fingerprint marks. The 3M scratch remover and Displex are some of the alternatives that could be considered. Those with the requisite DIY skills can try buffing using a cerium oxide compound. There is a preventative approach which is achieved by using a screen protector film. 

Some concluding remarks on the iPhone and scratches

To some extent Apple products such as the iPhone 4S and the anticipated iPhone 5 offer the possibility of a scratch-free life. However there is a limit to their capabilities. For example they will crack if the drop is significant or repeated several times. The concept of an iPhone screen scratch resistant feature has its limitations. However there are some remedies that can rescue the situation.