We live in a digitally advanced world where everything is within your reach. Gone are those days when you had to wait outside the bank or the ATM to get some cash.

Everything has gone digital! While there is an option of doing online banking, there are some new players on the field: neobanks.

Neobanks are digital-only fiscal services platforms, and they’re fairly new. And it’s not only US neobanks, but different nations have also embraced the new digital financial platform.

Wait a minute! You may be wondering how neo-banks make money. But let’s start with what neobank is.

Understanding the Concept of Neobank

A neo bank is a new variant of financial services. It’s an online-only bank for customers, so all the operations are carried forward digitally.

In traditional banking, you have physical branches, but neobanks are different. There is no physical branch, and all the focus is on improving user experience.

Neobanks operate online, but you must know they are mostly fintech companies and not actual banks.

How Does a Neobank Make Money?

A traditional bank has many ways to make money. They offer services like lending which gives them a chance to earn interest. The question is – how would neobankss make money? Although lending is not a form of revenue source, they can count on interchange fees, which specifically come from debit cards.

Let’s say a customer uses a debit card at a grocery store or swipes it at a hotel, there will be an interchange fee. This fee is the transaction cost that a merchant prays every time the customer uses the debit card.

Neobanks need to improve their transactional relationship with customers to increase their overall revenue. That’s the catch!

Why are Neobanks Garnering Attention?

Neobanks is garnering attention because they are offering online banking convenience. But these neobanks have a limited audience which may change shortly considering the concept is getting popular.

The modern and digital-only approach of neo-banks is gaining momentum and more people are getting interested in understanding the perks of neo-banks.

Four Compelling Reasons to Opt For Neobank

Since the concept is new to you, and you are interested to know whether or not neo-banks can help with gaining financial benefits, let us unravel the four reasons you must opt for the new-age banking.

#1 The UI is straightforward and quite friendly

It’s all about creating a convenient experience for the users. Opening the applications and websites aren’t a hassle.

#2 Opening an Account is Easy

Even though account opening in any traditional bank is simple. You just have to fill the application form and submit all the documents in the branch near you. Now, the thing about neobanks is that you can use your smartphone to open an account. It just takes a few simple steps to set up a US Neobanks account.

#3 Affordability is the Key

Since there are no physical bank branches, neobanks save all the overhead costs. There is no annual maintenance charge or any withdrawal fee. You save a lot of money and can utilize it elsewhere.

#4 It’s Ideal for MSMEs

The whole process of approval, disbursal procedure, and application seems a bit too overwhelming with a traditional bank. Fortunately, neobanks can be advantageous for micro, small, and medium enterprises.

Some companies usually do business using foreign trademarks licensed under franchise arrangements. This allows a locally registered entity to locally use a trademark owned by a foreign company, usually for a fee and subject to certain standards as specified.

Considering the nature of the arrangement, which on the face of it, offers a business advantage to the local entity; there has always been an issue as to whether the local/ Ugandan company is considered imported a service into Uganda?

This issue was the subject of a ruling by the Tax Appeals Tribunal in the case of Apollo Hotel Corporation Ltd v Uganda Revenue Authority TAT Application No. 68 of 2018.

The facts were that in 2008, Apollo Hotel Corporation Ltd (the Applicant) entered into an international license agreement with Sheraton International Inc. a company incorporated in the United States of America. The agreement granted the Applicant the right to operate its hotel in Kampala under the trademarked brand name “Sheraton” and also to use Sheraton International’s centralized reservation system by paying franchise fees to Sheraton International. URA raised a tax assessment of VAT amounting to Ugx. 398,418,285 on the franchise fees. Apollo objected to the assessment and the matter was left for determination by the Tribunal.

The main issue was whether the use of the brand name “Sheraton” and the provision of the centralized reservation system amounted to a supply of an “imported service” for purposes of VAT?

Tax Appeal’s Tribunal in their ruling dated 27th August 2021, dismissed the Application holding that;

i. The use of the trademarked brand name “Sheraton” and the provision of the centralized reservation system amounted to a supply of an imported service.

ii. That VAT was only due on the principal service namely, the right to operate the hotel under the trademark name “Sheraton” using the centralized reservation system.

In reaching its holding, the Tribunal relied on the case of Sagar Ratna Restaurants Pvt Ltd & Ors v The Value Added Tax Officer Where the Delhi High Court in India found that the use of the trademark McDonald’s amounted to a service and not goods for purposes of VAT. The Tribunal thus concluded that the use of the brand name Sheraton under the agreement amounted to service and not goods.

The Tribunal also invoked the destination principle which provides that services supplied from a foreign jurisdiction and consumed in one’s own jurisdiction are considered as imported services. The Tribunal thus reasoned that the Sheraton brand and reservation system was supplied for use in Uganda by Sheraton International Inc. and was used by the Applicant in Uganda. It follows that these services were imported services for the reason that they were supplied from a foreign jurisdiction and consumed in Uganda.

Effect of the decision.

The above decision by the Tribunal sets a precedent that all companies in Uganda which are running businesses using foreign trademarks by paying franchise fees must charge VAT on payments to those foreign persons. The principle in the decision is of wide application and will most likely affect all businesses operating under the franchise arrangements in Uganda.

This decision is a great win for URA in its attempt to tax the digital economy and intangible intellectual property rights. The use of the centralized reservation system which is located in the United States of America is similar to the running of most digital platform-based businesses. This poses a challenge for taxation under the permanent establishment principle which provides for taxation only when an entity has a physical presence in a foreign jurisdiction. The decision provides a window for the taxation of the digital economy.

Nowadays, everybody is looking for the opportunity to invest with different varieties of investment apps. And most importantly, investing doesn’t only save your money but brings your financial life back on track. With an investment app, you will have full control over your finances by keeping track of your spendings and returns.

That’s not all because you have different investment opportunities to invest your money in. For example, the GKFX platform provides investment opportunities through the trading of currencies. You can read the Vantage broker here for more information about their services!

The below investment apps are thoroughly evaluated based on their security and features. These apps might not be from popular investment brands, but they have made remarkable breakthroughs in providing unique investment opportunities to users. Whether you’re a professional or a beginner looking for an investment app, you can get started from the below lists that includes:

1. Invstr

Invstr is among the best investment apps for beginners with a series of education tools. Invstr brought real-life investing into its app with immense features that would benefit users. The app is specifically designed to enlighten investors and beginners about stocks. Unlike other investment apps, Invstr has engaging stock games that give users the opportunity to make money.

2. Wealthbase

Wealthbase is a new investment app with different varieties of stock games. It gives users the ability to have fun, while they make money. In this investment app, you can play engaging games with friends. And most importantly Wealthbase has a social media area where friends post information about stocks. Wealthbase can be accessed through web and mobile apps. You can also check Pepperstone Minimum Deposit for Minimum deposit requirements.

3. Wealthfront

Wealthfront is the best investment app for portfolio management. Wealthfront has different varieties of Robo-advisors that manage the account of investors at a flat fee. The Robo-advisors can manage different varieties of accounts such as taxable and IRA accounts. The fee they charge investors ranges from 0.25% to 0.95% annually. However, the minimum account balance is $500.

4. Acorns

Acorns bring users to the investment world with seamless features to broaden their experience. With Acorn you have the opportunity to start investing from a small amount. You can also link your credit and debit card to start investing. Their fee is charged monthly ranging from $1 to $5. They allow you to create different varieties of investment accounts. Apart from Acorns, you can also check forex brokers list, if you are looking for an investment or trading platform.

5. Betterment

Betterment is similar to Wealthfront where investor’s accounts are managed by a Robo-advisor. Betterment provides a professional set of managed portfolios using ETFs. They have the best socially investing services. Their management fee is 0.25% annually or a fixed fee of 25$ for any investment above $10,000 yearly. There’s no minimum balance for opening an account on Betterment.

6. Robinhood

Robinhood is an investment app that offers smooth trading services to investors. Its application interface is very engaging and detailed for a smooth trading experience. With the Robinhood apps, investors can trade stocks, ETFs, options, and cryptocurrency for free without any hidden charges. Their minimum account balance required for opening an account remains $0.

7. Webull

Webull is very popular among other investment apps because of its low-cost trading. With Webull, investors can easily trade stocks, ETFs, options, and cryptocurrencies. They charge low exchange fees but offer no commissions for stocks, ETFs, options, and crypto trading. Their minimum account balance remains $0.

8. Stockpile

Stockpile is an engaging app that allows users to buy fractional shares of business around the world. They offer investors the opportunity to buy low shares without charging any monthly fee. They provide different varieties of exceptional features to investors such as allowing investors to send gift cards to friends and families, which can be redeemed as stock.

Conclusion

Nowadays, everybody is looking for the opportunity to invest with different varieties of investment apps. And most importantly, investing doesn’t only save your money but brings your financial life back on track. Take a look at the best investment apps in May 2021 to start making money from investing.

Africa is the place where gambling is allowed legally. Any type of gambling was banned for a long time and then got started in 1995/96. All thanks to the National Gambling Act when the casinos got a chance to come back.

Casino Gaming in Africa Online

When talking about Africa’s gambling, nothing much can be said. Online slots have always remained popular in Africa, but the legalities are unfriendly. No doubt, various online operators offer to gamble for African players, but many of them have restrictions. This is because there was no gambling in 2004. The update in 2011 stated that online gambling is not allowed in the country.

Online Gambling Guide for African Players

If you are a native but have just entered the world of gambling, there are certain things about which you should be aware before trying your hands on this fun. While talking about online casinos, make sure to be careful while choosing one, as gambling is considered illegal and many operators don’t allow gambling. Go through the game selection, licenses, and security. Everything should be legit and worth your money and time. You can always check the reviews of the best casinos and a list of legal casino sites at casinosites.org.

Gambling Safety & License in Africa

We have mentioned it above, and saying it again – safety should be a major concern, especially when you are considering playing online. At the same time, selecting the casino where you will play, research, take your time, and look for the regulatory operators and licenses.

How to Look For the Great Product: Bets and Games

The product matters a lot – the bets, games, rooms, raffles, and the experience you gain while playing. Various gambling sites in Africa are there and you have to know which is best. Look for the casino that offers games of your choice. Even if there are the best bonus options, it’s not worth it as you have no interest.

Best Gambling Bonuses in Africa

It is essential to look for the operators with the best selection of games, but we can talk about the bonus as well. Online gambling in Africa has various hidden nooks and alleys about which you must know. Fun is good, but what can be better than extra cash coming straight in the pocket? Go through the terms and conditions carefully while claiming the bonus.

Responsible Gambling & Preventing Addiction

It is crucial to be responsible, especially while playing at the casino. Various African citizens struggle with gambling addiction or have just started to play and have early symptoms. What’s positive is that the National Gambling Board offers certain measures which help in fighting gambling addiction and abuse. There are also many self-exclusion programs open for African gamblers, which can prove to be helpful for them. The period is usually 6 months, but it can also be shorter or longer, everything depends upon what suits you.

Conclusion

Get the best knowledge about online gambling and its legalities. We hope we have covered it all. So, what are you waiting for? Happy gambling!

The forex industry in Africa has been growing significantly. It has been estimated that the number of forex traders across the continent ranges from 1.3 to 1.8 million. This growing user base is comparable to those in other parts of the world.

Undoubtedly, the Forex market has always been an attractive place for traders and investors to start and it is due to not one but multiple factors like high liquidity, ease of entry, global nature, high volatility, access to demo accounts and high-profit potential.

But the question is what led to the popularity of the forex market in Africa and whether the forex market in Africa will continue to expand. Let’s find out the answer!

Reasons Behind the Rise of Forex Trading in Africa

1. Impact of Coronavirus: In 2020, Covid-19 took hold in the world, including Africa. As there were restrictions on movement, people were confined to their homes. Economies were shut, and there was job insecurity. That’s when people started to look for alternative ways to generate income, preferably from home. Amidst all this chaos, people started to gain interest in forex trading. The primary driving force was the heightened volatility in the markets due to the ongoing pandemic. Additionally, the war in Ukraine has only exacerbated the already volatile market which created a fertile breeding ground for those seeking to profit from the movements in the market, regardless of whether they are positive or negative.
2. Access to the Internet and Mobile Phones: The technological landscape of the African continent is rapidly evolving. Smartphones and tablets have become the go-to devices for communication, entertainment, and almost everything, including trading. The increasing accessibility of the internet has only further compounded this trend, with wireless technology enabling countries to rapidly expand their online infrastructure and increase the reach of the digital world. Brokers operating in this space have been quick to capitalise on these developments and have designed their trading platforms to be as mobile-friendly as possible. MT4 and MT5 are prime examples of how easy trading platforms are to use. You can easily place, monitor and exit trades on the move using the mobile version of these trading platforms.
3. Africa Can Benefit From Lesser-known Markets: The savvy traders know that being aware of the fundamentals like political climate in the country, economic health and infrastructure development can pay off big time as this can help them make the most out of the price movements. The best part of trading in the lesser-known pairs and currencies is that movements can be much more stark and pronounced, which makes it easier to time the market in many cases.
4. Better Financial Education: As the African continent hurtles towards an economically empowered future, there has been a remarkable increase in the financial literacy of its people. Various literacy initiatives and better schooling have played a pivotal role in this regard. There has also been an influx of talent from abroad, contributing a lot towards it. Forex platforms themselves have also played quite a critical role in educating traders by offering a wealth of resources that help them to learn the ropes of the market.

Future of Forex Trading in Africa

Africans, in general, are becoming more active in the forex markets due to the increasing rate of internet penetration and other factors, which indicates that we can expect the trend of forex trading to accelerate in the near future. However, there are people who think that the forex market in Africa has reached its saturation point.

In reality, the market still has massive potential for growth. Currently, the forex market is enjoying stability, which is seen as an excellent foundation for continued growth, but the changing regulatory controls may have an impact on future growth. But certainly, there’s a lot of room for growth in forex activities in Africa.

How New African Traders Can Start Forex Trading?

As we know, forex trading is a financial activity that involves the buying and selling of currencies with the intention of making a profit from fluctuations in currency rates. Therefore, you have to be strategic and know when to make your move and when to hold back. The basic idea is simple: you buy a currency when you expect its value to increase relative to another currency, and you sell it when you anticipate it will decline. The difference between the entry and exit prices determines the profit or loss of your trade.

So, let’s understand how you can start trading forex and what you will need before starting:

Learn About the Markets: Mastering the fundamentals of forex trading is essential to survive and consistently make profits in the market. There are two main approaches to trading, or we can say to speculate the direction of the market: technical analysis and fundamental analysis. Technical analysis involves using chart patterns, candlesticks, moving averages, and other technical tools to identify trading opportunities based on price movements. In contrast, fundamental analysis takes a longer-term approach and relies on macroeconomic indicators such as employment data, retail sales, and interest rates to identify potential trades. To get started with online Forex trading, it’s important that you understand these concepts thoroughly, as well as learn and practice risk management in trading.

Create a Trading Account: In order to place trades in the market, you have to create a trading account with a reliable broker, as only then will you be able to get access to the market. It is one of the most important decisions, and you must take it carefully, as choosing the right or wrong broker will make all the difference in your trading account. Make sure to check the broker’s regulations, terms and conditions, and other important features as you may not want to end up with a fraud company as this may risk your trading capital.

Find a Trading Strategy: The market has so many trading strategies. Scalping, Day Trading, Swing Trading and Position trading are just a few of them. Each strategy has different rules, and you must make sure that it completely suits your trading style because that’s the only way to get the maximum benefits from your trading strategy. In order to have a solid strategy, you must have accurate information of the trades you intend to enter into. For that, trading tools will be of great help, as they help find the right data you need to smartly enter a trade to make profits with a minimum amount of risk. For instance, if you have a day job, you should try scalping, as it demands a lot of time and concentration. Scalping is a short-term strategy where traders have to enter and exit trades within a time frame of a few minutes, which is hardly possible for a person who is busy with their full-time job. So, in this case, you may choose swing or position trading. Therefore, make sure that your strategy suits your trading style.

Choose a Trading Platform: Here comes another important decision. Trading platforms are equipped with charts, indicators and other trading tools that help you monitor and analyse the market. Therefore, you must find a trading platform that is user-friendly, intuitive and responsive. You should also check different order types and other necessary features to ensure that the platform offers everything that you will need during trading. But you should know that your broker should support the trading platform of your choice otherwise, you can’t connect your trading platform with your brokerage platform. Typically, MT4 and MT5 are the most preferred platforms that most traders and brokers love. So you can choose any based on your preference. Most beginners prefer to trade on MT4 due to its simple design and limited features, but you are free to choose any, given that you are comfortable trading on it.

Understand the Risks Involved: Forex trading is prone to numerous risks: market risk, operational risk, risk of ruin, leverage risk, liquidity risk, emotional risk and risk of financial loss. If you want to protect your account from these risks, you must fully understand what they mean and what measures you can take to prevent your account from these losses.

There has been a tremulous shift in Africa’s economic and financial landscape. Access to the internet, increased literacy rates, and political and social turmoil impact are crucial factors in driving this change. As more and more Africans started developing an interest in the forex market, they started investing their time in gaining a deeper understanding of this complex financial world. This has made Africans better equipped to make sound financial decisions and confidently navigate the markets. This development can be seen as a course towards Africans’ brighter and more prosperous future.