Investing your money is always a good idea to increase your assets and try to live the future more peacefully, at least from a financial point of view. This is a rather courageous choice, considering the economic situation of the country and the choices made to deal with various problems.
Although stocks and bonds are still common forms of investment and there are other "safe havens" to take refuge in, there are also alternatives to consider in this new year that has just begun.
Inflation and new price increases
Throughout 2023, inflation has posed a major challenge to global economies. Many countries have seen significant increases in the prices of goods and services, with tangible consequences for consumers and businesses. Various factors led to this situation, but above all it was the increase in production costs, the scarcity of raw materials and the interruptions of supply chains that made the difference.
Le monetary policies adopted by central banks they played a crucial role in managing this inflation. The EU has progressively but significantly increased interest rates to reduce demand and slow down price increases, but this measure has put a strain on consumers and businesses, still waiting for the situation to normalize. Which will probably happen in 2024, but there is another obstacle to overcome: the pre-visit price increases for the new year.
Insurance, motorways, telephony and the application of 22% VAT to the gas bill. For consumers there is truly no peace. But, for those who have the opportunity and even a little courage, there is no shortage of investment opportunities. The question to ask is whether it is worth following paths that are already well-trodden or whether it is worth throwing yourself into less common but promising investments.
Criptovalute
Cryptocurrencies represent an innovative investment, even if they are certainly not new instruments. The birth of Bitcoin, in fact, the first in history and the queen of all cryptocurrencies, dates back to 2009. Since then, virtual currencies have multiplied, supported by more or less useful and cutting-edge projects, but also very different.
Investing in cryptocurrencies, although involving some important risks linked to the high volatility of prices, could bring significant returns. The important thing is to do the necessary research to understand what they are cryptocurrencies to invest in 2024, always stay up to date because the market is very dynamic and only invest what you can afford to lose. A diversified portfolio can also make a certain difference.
Bitcoin and Ethereum have gained a lot of popularity in recent years and, after a rather uncertain period, are recording very encouraging values, confirming the real profitability of this form of investment. Furthermore, next year is expected this year halving of Bitcoin, a significant decrease in supply that will continue to spark talk about this virtual currency for a long time even in 2024.
Start-ups and small businesses
Investing in start-ups or small businesses is certainly an alternative but also potentially profitable choice. Start-ups are often created to provide space for innovation and growth and investors who manage to sniff out potentially successful projects can obtain significant returns.
You might be thinking about becoming a angel investors or invest through crowdfunding platforms. In the latter case the venture is riskier, but it is also true that you have the opportunity to access the details of the various investments available and choose the one that seems most promising. However, start-ups cannot be considered an extremely safe investment, as many of these companies do not survive even a few years after their birth.
Small businesses, on the other hand, play a crucial role in the country's economy, making a notable contribution to job creation and promoting competition. Investing in these companies - more solid than start-ups - could reveal pleasant surprises in the long term.
The most suitable solution to counteract any risks is a diversified portfolio that includes start-ups and small businesses. However, it is important to do thorough research before investing, carefully evaluating the business model, management team and growth potential. Financial expert advice can be critical to mitigating risks and maximizing opportunities.
Art and collectibles
Collectibles such as works of art, classic cars or rare coins can provide an alternative and tangible investment, although the return is often difficult to predict. The value of these works and objects often appreciates over time and we must wait before reaping the fruits of this choice.
Art, in particular, is attracting investors, especially with a view to extreme portfolio diversification. However, the art market is a complex market and can be influenced by subjective factors such as current trends and preferences.
Collectibles, such as ancient coins, rare comics or vintage toys, can also offer interesting investment opportunities, but you need to have a nose.
In short, before investing in art and collectibles, it is advisable to do in-depth research and perhaps ask for advice from an expert. This solution can prove successful as part of a diversification strategy.
Green and sustainable investments
The future is definitely and necessarily green and sustainable, which is why investing in companies that carry out research and innovation in this field will be one of the trends of 2024. You can focus on companies that focus on renewables, low-impact technologies or eco-compatible products.
These are the companies that are attracting the attention of investors. The sector should also be taken into consideration plant based, that of plant food so to speak, the vegan economy or synthetic meat. In all these cases, we would be helping the planet without putting our own interests aside.
Peer-to-Peer Lending
Il Peer-to-Peer Lending (P2P) is revolutionizing the way to access credit. This decentralized financial practice allows individuals to borrow or lend money without going through the intermediation of traditional financial institutions. Loans take place directly between people, through online platforms, and at more flexible conditions and more competitive interest rates.
This model, in addition to making the financing procedure more dynamic, allows investors to support projects (against the payment of interest rates) and entrepreneurs to access capital without the intermediation of banks.
Il peer-to-peer lending It can be a great way to diversify your portfolio, but it is essential to carefully evaluate the risks associated with this form of lending and investment.
Is it better to opt for a more "traditional" investment?
There is no shortage of less common and more courageous investment opportunities to seize in 2024, but there are also alternatives for those who don't feel like going down unknown paths.
The real estate sector, for example, has always been and continues to be a safe haven, even if the capital required is decidedly more important. Another solid investment is that in precious metals, especially gold, an evergreen whose value remains practically unchanged over time, given its scarcity. Finally, in 2024 we will continue to invest in BOTs, BPTs, bonds and postal savings bonds.
In short, there is no shortage of options, both for traditionalists and innovators. The important thing is to inform yourself adequately and do the necessary research. Finally, when it comes to investments, diversifying is always a good idea.