12 Ways You’re Shortening the Life of Your Home Appliances

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Common mistakes can cause big problems

Buying electronics and appliances can be a huge investment, and when something goes wrong with them, it can also cause a huge headache. So, of course, you want to keep everything working for as long as possible. While many of us blame the seemingly shorter lifespan of these products on the fact that things just aren’t made like they used to be, that’s not entirely true. It turns out that much of the time, the culprit is us! Read on for the mistakes you probably don’t even realize you’re making, which can cause the early demise of everything from your laptop and your phone to your stove and your toaster. And if it is time to buy something new, make sure you know the most reliable (and least reliable) home appliance brands.

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Buying electronics and appliances can be a large investment. So, you want to keep everything working for as long as possible. While many of us blame the…
The post 12 Ways You’re Shortening the Life of Your Home Appliances appeared first on Reader’s Digest.

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How to Apply for a Golden Visa: A Step-by-Step Guide

Reviewed by Katie MillerFact checked by Vikki VelasquezGolden visas are a type of visa available in approximately 28 countries to wealthy individuals who are able to make significant investments, often in real estate, in a host country. In return, they get residency, a path to citizenship, unrestricted travel to numerous other countries, business and education opportunities, and other benefits.In addition to their investment, golden visa holders must undergo a complex application process that often requires professional guidance. Learn about that process here and which countries are the most popular for those planning to obtain golden visa status. Key TakeawaysGolden visas are available to wealthy individuals wishing to reside in one or more of 28 countries worldwide.A golden visa requires a significant investment in the host country, typically in real estate, and is offered to promote economic growth.Besides the investment, the golden visa application process is time-consuming, requiring vetting, submitting paperwork, and approval.Once obtained, a golden visa allows residency in the host country and unrestricted travel to many other countries.A golden visa often leads to citizenship or the ability to fast-track a citizenship application. What Is a Golden Visa?A golden visa is a type of residency-by-investment program in approximately 28 countries worldwide. Instead of merely traveling abroad, a golden visa allows foreign investors to obtain a temporary or permanent residency permit in exchange for a significant investment in the country. The term “golden” refers to the high value of the investment required.A golden visa’s specific requirements and benefits vary by country, but they are often used to attract foreign investment and promote economic growth.Countries Offering Golden Visa ProgramsAbout 28 countries offer golden visa programs, including Portugal, Malta, Greece, and Italy.Eligibility and investment requirements vary by country, as do benefits. Here are the main guidelines for six popular golden visa programs.PortugalPortugal’s golden visa program allows qualified individuals and their families to live, work, and study in Portugal. To be eligible, you must:Be at least 18 years oldBe a non-European Union (EU), non-Swiss, and non-European Economic Area (EEA) nationalHave no criminal record in your home country or PortugalMake a significant investment of €250,000 or more that benefits the Portuguese economyInvest in investment funds, create a company, or create jobsOwn the money you seek to investCommit to maintaining the investment for at least five years ImportantAs of late 2023, Portugal no longer accepted real estate as a qualifying investment for the golden visa program. However, the private equity and venture capital fund investment method will continue. Benefits of the Portugal golden visa include:Fast processingTax benefitsA minimal residency requirementAffordable investments in rental propertiesThe ability to visit 26 countries in the Schengen Area without a visaMore legitimacy when applying for visas in other countriesThe ability to live, work, and study in PortugalThe ability to apply for citizenship or permanent residency in Portugal after five yearsMaltaThe Malta golden visa program allows high-income individuals to receive a Maltese passport within one to three years. To be eligible, you must:Be at least 18 years of ageBe a non-EU citizenHave no criminal record and no family members with criminal records in your applicationAgree to support family members who are included in your applicationMake a substantial investment in MaltaRent or buy property in MaltaHave health insurance coverageHave assets or capital of at least €500,000 of which €150,000 is in financial assetsHave a clean (noncriminal) source of fundsBenefits of the Malta golden visa include:Visa-free access to all Schengen countries for 90 out of 180 daysThe right to live, settle, and stay in Malta indefinitelyAccess to Malta’s high-quality healthcare systemAccess to Europe’s outstanding education systemA highly advantageous taxation systemThe residency requirement for citizenship is based on your investment. Here are the details:If you invest at least €750,000, you can get a Malta passport after one year.If you invest €600,000, you can get a Malta passport after three years.With Malta citizenship:You and your family can live permanently in Malta or anywhere else in the EU.You and your family can work and study in Malta or anywhere in the EU.You can travel visa-free or obtain a visa on arrival to over 180 countries worldwide.Everyone who is granted Malta citizenship will automatically pass on citizenship to any descendants.You can access the social, educational, and health benefits of Malta.GreeceThe Greece golden visa is a residence-by-investment program that allows non-EU citizens to obtain a five-year residence permit in Greece. The program is open to all nationalities and has no minimum-stay requirement. ImportantChanges to the Golden Visa Program are expected to take effect in 2024, creating two minimum real estate investment tiers, depending on geographic zones.Tier 1 | 800,000 EUR: Real estate investment in the areas of Attica, Thessaloniki, Mykonos, Santorini, and the islands, which have a population of more than 3,100.Tier 2 | 400,000 EUR: Real estate investment in all other regions of Greece. To qualify for the Greece golden visa, you must:Purchase real estate property for a minimum of €400,000Purchase real estate property for a minimum of €800,000 in these selected areas: Attica Region (including Athens), Mykonos, Santorini, and ThessalonikiInvest a minimum of €400,000 in government bonds or capital sharesDeposit a minimum of €400,000 in a Greek bank accountMake an investment of at least €800,000 toward government or corporate bondsThe visa is valid for five years and can be renewed every five years.Benefits of the Greece golden visa include:No residency requirementVisa-free travelAccess to local healthcare and educationEligibility for your entire familyCitizenship optionPermanent residency in GreeceAccess to the wider EUA pathway to a valuable second passportAll the benefits that a citizen would haveCyprus ImportantCyprus has canceled its golden visa residency-by-investment program. Below are the details of the old program, which is no longer available. The Cyprus golden visa was a residency-by-investment program that allowed non-EU citizens to obtain permanent residence and eventually citizenship in Cyprus. The program was one of the fastest and simplest investor visa programs in Europe.To qualify for the Cyprus golden visa, applicants had to meet the following requirements:Invest at least €300,000 ($328,000) into the country’s economyPurchase real estate property worth at least €300,000 ($328,000)Be over 18 years oldHave an annual income of at least €50,000 ($55,000), plus €15,000 ($16,400) per spouse and €10,000 ($11,000) per childHave proof of no criminal recordPurchase up to two new or used immovable non-residential properties (offices, shops, hotels, or other developments) of a total market value of at least €300,000 ($328,000) plus value-added tax (VAT)Submit evidence that you maintain the investmentSubmit a health insurance certificate for yourself and your family (in case you are not beneficiaries of the healthcare system, known as the GeSY)Applicants must also visit Cyprus within one year of the date of the permanent residency permit (PRP) to provide biometrics for issuance of a PR card. All family members are required to visit Cyprus once every two years.Benefits of the Cyprus golden visa included:The right to live, work, study, and receive healthcare in CyprusThe option of physically relocating to Cyprus now or upon retirementSpain ImportantOn April 08, 2024, Spain announced that it plans to end its Golden Visa program for foreigners who invest in real estate due to escalating property prices and money laundering concerns. As of April 2024, Spanish government officials and the Housing Ministry are still in talks on how to roll back the program. The Spanish golden visa, also known as the “property visa,” grants automatic residency in Spain when you invest at least €500,000 ($546,000) in property. The visa includes an implicit work permit.To qualify for the Spanish golden visa, you must meet the following requirements:Be at least 18 years oldHave public or private health insurance from a company authorized to operate in SpainHave sufficient financial means to cover personal and family living expensesNot have been refused entry into any of the Schengen countriesInvest at least €500,000 in propertyProvide evidence of the purchase price of the property, the payment of taxes, or documentation of any investments held with a financial institutionPay the visa application fees, which include the initial government application fee and approval feeBenefits of the Spanish golden visa include:The right to live in Spain and travel freely to and from SpainThe ability to return investments after living in Spain for five years and obtaining permanent residenceThe ability to apply for citizenship after another five years of living in the countryItalyThe Italian golden visa, or Italian investor visa, which was introduced in 2017, allows non-EU citizens to obtain a residence permit by investing at least €250,000 in the country’s economy.Benefits of the Italian golden visa include the ability to:Reside in Italy for a minimum of two yearsTravel across Schengen countries for up to 90 days every 180 daysApply for permanent residency after five years of residencyApply for Italian citizenship after 10 years of full-time residencyTravel to more than 190 countries visa-free, or obtain a visa on arrivalBenefit from a special tax regime that allows applicants to pay reduced income taxInclude the family of the main applicant, including spouse, dependent children, and dependent parentsThe minimum investment can be made in the following ways:€2,000,000 in Italian government bonds€500,000 in an Italian limited company€250,000 in an Italian innovative startup€1 million in philanthropic donationsHow to Apply for a Golden VisaThe process for obtaining a golden visa can vary depending on the country that offers the program. However, some common steps include:Step 1. Research Your OptionsStart by researching the countries that offer golden visas and comparing their requirements and benefits. Choose the one that best fits your needs and budget.Step 2. Meet the RequirementsEach country has its own set of requirements for obtaining a golden visa, such as minimum investment amounts, types of investments, and background checks. Make sure you meet all the requirements before applying.Step 3. Prepare Your ApplicationOnce you have chosen a program and met the requirements, you will need to prepare your application. This will typically include filling out forms, providing supporting documents, and paying fees.Depending on the country offering the program, additional steps may be involved in obtaining a golden visa, such as language proficiency tests or interviews. Be sure to carefully review the requirements for your specific program to ensure a smooth application process.Step 4. Submit Your ApplicationYou can submit your application to the relevant authorities after preparing it. This may be done online or in person, depending on the country.Step 5. Wait for a DecisionThe processing time for a golden visa application varies by country, but it can take several months to receive a decision. Once your application is approved, you will need to follow the requirements of the program to maintain your residency status.The application process can take weeks to months, depending on the country offering the program. Once your application has been reviewed and approved, you will receive your golden visa.Step 6. Renew Your VisaGolden visas typically need to be renewed periodically, so ensure that you know your specific program’s renewal requirements. WarningThe process for obtaining a golden visa can be complex and time-consuming. It’s wise to work with a qualified immigration lawyer or consultant to help you navigate the entire process. Costs Associated with Applying for a Golden VisaAs noted in the examples above, the cost of a golden visa varies by country and program. Each program has its own set of investment requirements and fees. Generally speaking, a golden visa can cost anywhere from a few hundred thousand dollars to several million dollars, depending on the country and the type of investment required. $100,000 to over $2 million+Range of minimum investment costs to obtain a golden visa. To apply for a golden visa, you typically must purchase a property (real estate) in a foreign country. This is the most common route and is offered by most golden visa countries. The real estate costs range from $250,000 to over $2 million, which could include purchase, renovation, or construction.There are other costs to consider when applying for a golden visa in addition to the investment. The process for obtaining an American EB-5 visa, for example, includes a petition fee of $3,675. The minimum investment is $1.05 million in a business or $800,000 in a targeted area. Additional costs include filing fees, administration expenses, and costs associated with business planning and formation. Many of these costs are variable and can add tens of thousands to the total expense.Potential Pitfalls and Risks of a Golden Visa A golden visa or citizenship by investment has benefits when it comes to moving to the front of the immigration line in many countries. This does not mean that there are no risks or negative factors to consider.High Cost and Investment RiskThe process of obtaining a golden visa can be quite costly. The investment required can range from hundreds of thousands to millions of dollars, depending on the country. This may not be feasible for everyone, and even if it is, foreign investments can be among the most risky.Lack of ProtectionObtaining a golden visa may not guarantee the same level of protection as traditional citizenship. Some countries that offer golden visas have been criticized for their lack of transparency and due diligence in vetting potential citizens. This could lead to security risks and potential issues with law enforcement.Negative Impact on Original CitizenshipSeeking a golden visa may also have a negative impact on your original citizenship. Some countries do not allow dual citizenship, which means that acquiring a golden visa could result in the loss of your original citizenship. This could impact your ability to travel, work, or access certain benefits in your home country.Negative Impact on Host CountryAcquiring a golden visa may also have a negative impact on the economy of the country offering it. Critics argue that such programs encourage corruption, money laundering, and tax evasion. Additionally, it may lead to the exploitation of natural resources and the displacement of locals.Geopolitical RisksThere may be geopolitical risks associated with acquiring a golden visa. Some countries that offer golden visas may be politically unstable or have strained relationships with other countries. This could impact your ability to travel or conduct business in certain regions. ImportantSeveral countries have either scrapped or made changes to their golden visa programs in recent years, including Canada, New Zealand, Malaysia, and Cyprus. Spain is deliberating whether to end its program as of April 2024. How Much Is a Golden Visa? The cost is several hundred thousand to several million dollars, and it varies by country and program. Each program has its own set of investment requirements and fees. The biggest part of the cost, by far, is the investment you must make. Which Country Has the Cheapest Golden Visa? The cost of a golden visa varies by country and program, so it’s difficult to say which country has the cheapest program. However, some programs are less expensive than others. For example:Portugal requires an investment of just €250,000 to receive a golden visa.Greece requires a real estate investment of €400,000 to receive a golden visa.Other countries with relatively low investment requirements for their golden visa programs include Turkey, Montenegro, and Cambodia. However, it’s important to keep in mind that the cheapest option may not always be the best option. Before making a decision, it’s important to consider other factors, such as the country’s economic and political stability, the benefits of the program, and your personal needs and goals. Who Can Qualify for a Golden Visa? The qualifications to obtain a golden visa vary by country and program, but there are some general requirements that many programs share.1. Minimum investment: This is typically several hundred thousand to several million dollars.2. Good character: Many programs require you to undergo a background check.3. Health insurance: Some programs require applicants to have health insurance coverage.4. Proof of funds: Applicants may be required to show proof of sufficient funds to support themselves and any dependents.5. Residency requirements: Once approved for a golden visa, applicants are typically required to maintain a certain level of residency in the country.6. Other specific requirements: Some programs may have additional specific requirements, such as language proficiency or a minimum age. How Long Is a Golden Visa Valid? The validity of a golden visa typically ranges from one to five years. In some cases, the visa may be valid for a shorter period if it is tied to the expiration of the applicant’s passport. After the initial visa period expires, an applicant may be able to renew their visa or apply for permanent residency or citizenship. Does a Golden Visa Lead to Citizenship? Not necessarily. While some golden visa programs offer a pathway to citizenship after a certain period of time, others offer permanent residency without a pathway to citizenship.The Bottom LineAlthough the application process for a golden visa varies by host country, most countries follow a similar pattern. The variabilities typically have to do with length of residency, language proficiency, and the vetting process.For most people able to afford the required investment, saving money isn’t a major concern, and their residential preferences likely tip toward luxurious rather than low-cost housing. In many cases, taking up residence in a foreign country may be driven by opportunities not available in the home country or tax savings that can be realized.If you seek a golden visa, do your research, pay close attention to the application process, and make sure you follow all of the steps. Finally, seek the advice of an experienced professional to guide you through the sometimes complicated process. 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Continuation Patterns: An Introduction

Reviewed by Gordon ScottFact checked by Suzanne KvilhaugWhen a trader looks at the price chart of a stock, it can appear to be completely random movements. This is often true and, yet, within those price movements are patterns. Chart patterns are geometric shapes found in the price data that can help a trader understand the price action, as well as make predictions about where the price is likely to go.Traders often assume that an occurrence of a continuation pattern indicates that a price trend is likely to continue, but experienced traders accept the idea that no pattern is perfectly reliable for predictive purposes. This article provides an introduction to continuation patterns, explaining what these patterns are and how to spot them. Key TakeawaysContinuation patterns are an indication traders look for to signal that a price trend is likely to remain in play.Traders try to spot these patterns in the middle of an existing trend, and they'll infer that the trend will most likely resume once the pattern has completed.All kinds of time frames can be scoured for continuation patterns, such as tick charts, daily or weekly charts.Triangles, flags, pennants, and rectangles are examples of continuation patterns that market traders often work with. Varieties of Continuation PatternsContinuation patterns occur mid-trend and are a pause in the price action of varying durations. When these patterns occur, it can indicate that the trend is likely to resume after the pattern completes. A pattern is considered complete when the pattern has formed (can be drawn) and then "breaks out" of that pattern, potentially continuing on with the former trend. Continuation patterns can be seen on all time frames, from a tick chart to a daily or weekly chart. Common continuation patterns include triangles, flags, pennants, and rectangles. ImportantContinuation patterns organize the price action a trader is observing in a way that allows them to execute a plan to take advantage of the movements. TrianglesTriangles are a common pattern and can simply be defined as a converging of the price range, with higher lows and lower highs. The converging price action creates a triangle formation. There are three basic types of triangles: symmetrical, ascending and descending. For trading purposes, the three types of triangles can be traded similarly.Triangles vary in their duration but will have at least two swing highs in price and two swings lows in price. As price continues to converge, it will eventually reach the apex of the triangle; the closer to the apex price gets, the tighter and tighter price action becomes, thus making a breakout more imminent.Symmetrical: A symmetrical triangle can be simply defined as a downward sloping upper bound and an upward sloping lower bound in price. Image by Sabrina Jiang © Investopedia 2020 Ascending: An ascending triangle can be defined as a horizontal upper bound and upward sloping lower bound. Image by Sabrina Jiang © Investopedia 2020 Descending: A descending triangle can be defined as a downward sloping upper bound and horizontal lower bound. Image by Sabrina Jiang © Investopedia 2020 FlagsFlags are a pause in the trend, where the price becomes confined in a small price range between parallel lines. This pause in the middle of a trend gives the pattern a flag-like appearance. Flags are generally short in duration, lasting several bars, and do not contain price swings back and forth as a trading range or trend channel would. Flags may be parallel or upward or downward sloping, as shown in below. Image by Sabrina Jiang © Investopedia 2020 PennantsPennants are similar to a triangle, yet smaller; pennants are generally created by only several bars. While not a hard and fast rule, if a pennant contains more than 20 price bars, it can be considered a triangle. The pattern is created as prices converge, covering a relatively small price range mid-trend; this gives the pattern a pennant appearance. Image by Sabrina Jiang © Investopedia 2020 RectanglesOften there will be pauses in a trend in which the price action moves sideways, bound between parallel support and resistance lines. Rectangles, also known as trading ranges, can last for short periods or many years. This pattern is very common and can be seen often intra-day, as well as on longer-term time frames. Image by Sabrina Jiang © Investopedia 2020 Working With Continuation PatternsContinuation patterns provide some logic to the price action. By knowing the patterns, a trader can create a trading plan to take advantage of common patterns. The patterns present trading opportunities that may not be seen using other methods.Unfortunately, simply because the pattern is called a "continuation pattern" does not mean it is always reliable. A pattern may appear during a trend, but a trend reversal may still occur. It is also quite possible that, once we have drawn the pattern on our charts, the bounds may be slightly penetrated, but a full breakout does not occur. This is called a false breakout and could occur multiple times before the pattern is actually broken and a continuation or a reversal occurs. Rectangles, due to their popularity and easy visibility, are highly susceptible to false breakouts.Patterns can also be subjective, as what one trader sees is not what another trader sees, or how another trader would draw or define the pattern in real time. This is not necessarily a bad thing, as it can provide traders with a unique perspective on the market. It will require time and practice for the trader to develop his or her skill in finding patterns, drawing them and formulating a plan on how to use them. The Bottom LineContinuation patterns, which include triangles, flags, pennants and rectangles, provide some logic on what the market may potentially do. Often these patterns are seen mid-trend and indicate a continuation of that trend, once the pattern is complete. In order for the trend to continue, the pattern must break out in the correct direction. While continuation patterns can help traders make trading decisions, the patterns are not always reliable. Potential problems include a reversal in a trend instead of a continuation and multiple false breakouts once the pattern is beginning to be established. Read the original article on Investopedia.