Are You Really Safe from Credit Card Scams?

Are You Really Safe from Credit Card Scams?

Credit cards can be your salvation if you need to make a purchase that your cash can’t. However, if it falls in the hands of culprits, it will start your financial disaster. Despite how Singaporeans know the risks of experiencing credit cards. There are still a lot of cases when people fall prey to fraud and  credit card scams.

Simple Ways to Keep Yourself Safe from Credit Card Scams

Avoid keeping your card in your wallet.

Even if you know, you will use it during your travel. So keeping your credit card and wallet separate is better. Most pickpockets know that your cards and cash will be in one place. So if you lose your wallet, you won’t have your money. But, you still got your credit card.

Another reason why you should not put your credit card in your wallet is to avoid a shopping spree. When you see your card, you will be tempted to swipe it. So better keep it away from your sight as much as possible.

Immediately report the loss of credit cards to the bank.

It is best to report the loss or theft to your card provider as soon as possible. Make sure that you can get a copy of a police report, the name of the officers who are investigating your case, and their phone numbers.

According to the law, you are given a maximum liability of $100. But, this is true only if your negligence did not cause the loss of the card. If the banks say that you were negligent, you can approach a law firm for legal advice.

Carry the card only when you are going to use it

There are times that you will be tempted to go shopping if you have your card readily available. However, leave the card at home if you have no plans of using it for any purchase or transaction.

Never write the security PIN at the back of the credit card

Never write your card PIN on your card for an obvious reason. If someone gets hold of your card, the person can easily shop around with your card and even make a cash advance that will seem unquestionable since your PIN has been used.

credit card scams

Credit: https://www.bitdefender.com/blog/hotforsecurity/online-shoppers-beware-mobile-scams-are-on-the-rise/

Never lose sight of the card.

When purchasing something, make sure that you never lose sight of your card to avoid unauthorised swipes and taps.

Do not hesitate to inquire when you don’t understand something

There are times that we enter into a transaction that we don’t really understand. It is a chance that the culprits take advantage of. If the transaction seems suspicious in any way, then just walk away than risk your finances.

Cut your credit card as soon as you close its account

To avoid credit card scams, do not let anybody from using your card. It is better to cut off the card after closing the account. This way, you will be sure that nobody else will have access to it.

Never pay in advance.

There are fake shopping sites that will ask for advance payments. Then after paying, you will never receive your item. Before making an advance payment, make sure you are dealing with a legitimate website.

Learn to spot warning signs in a fake Facebook promotion

With many promotions on Facebook, you have to be very keen on which one to believe. Check the link. It must end with .com, .org or perhaps .sg. If there are incomprehensible words, then it may not be legit. If a company is offering a promotion, the company’s official website must be mentioned. Check the grammar. Companies are very particular with their advertisements and promotions that wrong grammar will be unforgivable.

Remember to log off

If you are in a public place and using free WIFI, do not forget to log out to prevent other people from accessing your bank account. The same goes if you are overseas and using a public computer cafe. As much as possible, access your account in a private place.

Select passwords that are difficult to guess

Do not use birthdays and the names of your loved ones. These are the easiest to guess. Instead, be creative. Make it a bit longer and combine letters with numerical digits. Change your password regularly.

Enter the full URL of your bank

When accessing your bank account, make sure to type the whole URL. Some fraudsters can create identical fake websites. These fake websites are created to steal your bank details when you type them in. Always check the URL if it is the official site of your bank.

Do not click on any link purportedly sent to you by your bank via email.

You might get suspicious emails from your bank telling you that they have done a system upgrade and made another register. So you have to put in your financial details. Other emails might have spotted questionable activities involving your account details. In addition, you are required to key in your bank details for verifications. Never trust such emails. Give your bank a call immediately and report the email.

Install firewall and anti-virus

There will be culprits who will try to infect your software with the virus through click-bait sites. Install anti-virus and firewall to prevent them from accessing your device.

Check your bank’s website for information on their internet security

Visit your bank’s website. Check if the web address has a green lock icon, and the link should start with https. It means the website is well protected. Also, it proves that the company is legal.

Banks’ Ways to Keep You Safe from Credit Card Scams

New credit cards are EMV chip compliant.

A global security standard for Chip Card technology, the EMV is a smart chip that protects cards from fraudulent activities. It keeps your information safe through complicated encryptions.

Requires an OTP (One-time Password)

The bank sends a password to the cardholder through SMS. Also, you can only use it for a single transaction. Therefore, it ensures that only the authorised cardholder can use the credit card.

OTP to avoid credit card scams

Credit: https://www.indiamart.com/proddetail/otp-sms-services-20938039188.html

Immediate email / SMS alerts are sent to cardholders when their card is used in any transaction.

You will immediately receive a message that your card has been used in a transaction. It indicates if the transaction has been suspected of fraudulent. You have to confirm it with your bank immediately.

Be responsible with your credit card and bank details. For example, if the transaction is questionable, it is better not to go through it. No matter how tempting it may be. If you feel safer using cash to make an immediate purchase, you can just easily get a flexible loan from Cash Mart.

The Best Credit Cards for Your First Dinner Date

The Best Credit Cards for Your First Dinner Date

We all know that your first dinner date is crucial to making lasting impressions. Unfortunately, we are now in modern times that we believe in gender equality. But, Singaporeans still tend to be conservative with first dates. Men must pay for the date. While women can offer to pay for their share, the guy who accepts the offer rarely gets a second date.

Sticking to a dinner date doubles the chance of seeing her again. Are you looking for a grand dinner date style? However, you are worried about paying way too much that you can spend at one time. So you have to get a credit card with the best dining privileges. Some cards can even get you a VIP reservation at Michelin Star restaurants here in Singapore and abroad.

What’s with the Michelin Stars? Prestigious restaurants around the globe aspire to get the hallmark stars. It is proof that they are the best among the best. Michelin awards these stars. Yes! The same company makes tires and grades restaurants according to a set of standards. If you take your date to these restaurants, nothing can go wrong but first, get the right dining credit card.

POSB Everyday Card

POSB Everyday Card offers a 9% rebate on your dining purchases. Also, this card lets you relish the braised four-head South African abalone and exceptional Cantonese cuisine in The Ritz-Carlton at10% off the total bill. You can take your date to Crystal Jade Golden Palace if you want more reasonably priced meals. Then, enjoy a 12% rebate on the ala carte food bill.

Both of these restaurants have one Michelin Star. It means that their food has consistently high standards and worth a visit if ever you are in the neighbourhood.

POSB Everyday Card for your fist dinner date

UOB Visa Infinite Card

UOB Visa Infinite Card is excellent for your first dinner date. Why? Because it offers VIP booking in Michelin Star restaurants. These restaurants are naturally sought after by locals and foreigners. That’s why you need to have a reservation. If you take your date abroad, impress your date by making a VIP booking and having dining privileges in 8 ½ Otto e Mezzo Bombana, Shanghai (3 Michelin Stars), Opera Bombana, Beijing (3 Michelin Stars). Moreover, bring her to Le39V, Paris (1 Michelin Star) and Pipero al Rex, Rome (1 Michelin Star).

Do you want to have a date here in Singapore? You can take her to Grand Hyatt Singapore and get up to 50% off on the total bill. Grand Hyatt Singapore has top restaurants with one of a kind spectacular style.

UOB Visa Infinite Card for your first dinner date

UOB YOLO for your First Dinner Date

Are you the type of guy who wants to keep it simple yet still in sleek style? Then, use your UOB YOLO credit card to get more than 50 exclusive promos in various bars and restaurants. It includes Bedrock Bar and Grill. So, if you think your date is more of a sweet tooth, take her to Cold Stone Creamery or Dean and Deluca. Afterwards, enjoy 10% off à la carte food bill. Then, take her to the movies as the card also gives 1-for-1 weekend movie tickets and up to a 10% rebate at Cathay Cineplexes.

UOB YOLO Card

Citi Cash Back Card

Citi Cash Back Card has dining privileges you might want to check out. It offers up to 8% cashback at all partnering restaurants, cafes, and food and beverage. If you want to take your date for a joy ride, you also use this card to refill your tank as it gives up to 20.88% Cash Back from Esso stations, up to 20.8% Cash Back at Shell, and 8% cashback at all other petrol stations. So take your first dinner date to various places in Singapore. Also, discover interesting things about each other.

Citi Cash Back Card for your first dinner date

On the other hand, no matter how prestigious or exciting the venue of your first dinner date is, it is more important to focus on the person you are with. Are you dating a rebel; who wants to cast off the usual romantic dinner dates? Then, you might need more cash than a card. So don’t miss the chance to get a quick cash loan from Cash Mart. Then, take your date to an entirely new level. Make it unpredictable, thrilling and adventurous. Keep the conversations interesting, wear your best, and most importantly, be yourself.

Do Reviews Help You to Find the Best Mattress

How Do Reviews Help You to Find the Best Mattress

Since different individuals have different sleep preferences, what works well for you may not work for someone else. If you want to find the best mattress, customer reviews online can help you. In addition, you get to know more about the new mattress you have been eyeing.

It is no secret that looking for the best mattress is challenging. Fortunately, more online mattress reviews are online. In addition, you can look for specific mattress reviews that can help you know more about the mattress you have shortlisted.

Professional review sites would be testing more mattresses than the average individual. That implies they could give you a far more diverse opinion. Online reviews help you to compare and find the mattress on various counts.

find the best mattress

Credit: https://www.sleepfoundation.org/mattress-information/how-to-choose-a-mattress

Find the Best Mattress Support and Construction

Before purchasing a new mattress, you must first see how it supports your posture. The materials used for supporting your sleeping position can impact your comfort. Most modern mattresses would use any of these materials:

Innersprings

These mattresses would use metal springs to give support. The better and relatively more comfortable models would use more springs and place them strategically in separate pockets. Memory foam gets more preference than inner springs because of the pressure points. The springs would be pushing you up while you are sleeping on the mattress, compelling your spine to be out of alignment. Moreover, it may cause stiffness when you wake up.

Memory Foam

Memory foams are the most popular. This type of mattress receives the highest scores in online reviews regarding customer satisfaction. This gentle foam would get compressed under pressure and cradle you while you are lying down.

Simply, it is good at safeguarding you from pressure points and keeping your body in perfect alignment. Previously there were some issues regarding responsiveness and overheating. But, these issues have been effectively resolved in the current versions. You could browse through restonic mattress reviews if you wish to learn more about them before choosing.

Latex Foam

Latex Foam mattresses are known to be bouncier compared to memory foam. These mattresses could be manufactured with 100 per cent organic materials. Also, they are quite durable but slightly more expensive than the rest. Furthermore, latex mattresses are just a handful of reputable brands.

Hybrid Mattresses

US-Mattress.com shared that Hybrid mattresses are a combination of two or more support systems that usuallyuse memory foam layers andh an innerspring system. This way, the sleeper can experience the pressure-relieving benefits of memory foam with the firmness of the innerspring mattress.

Sleep Preference and Firmness Options

Remember that your preferred sleep position would determine the pressure relief and the level of support that’s best for you. For example, back Sleepers feel more comfortable with medium-firm mattresses. Meanwhile, soft mattresses are best for side sleepers.

The soft mattresses ideally provide the right cushion for side-sleepers who require some room for their shoulders and hips to sink into their mattress. Firm mattresses are suitable for folks who sleep on their stomach. However, it is not really recommended because it puts a lot of tension on your neck and spine.

People who shift around while sleeping require a mattress that works in all these situations, which means one of medium firmness is just right for them.

Conclusion: Extra Features

Your quest for a suitable mattress would not end without considering the extra features of the mattress. You may examine the support material and the mattress cover in this context. After going through online mattress reviews, you can find the best mattress for you. In addition, compare the benefits and limitations of your options.

Think of your mattress as an investment. Sleep is vital to help our body rest and regain strength. Conversely, lack of good sleep can lead to stress, behavioural changes, difficulty concentrating, and mood swings.

Unfortunately, high-quality mattresses are more expensive. Need more cash to purchase the best mattress for you? Get an instant loan from Cash Mart.

Cash Mart is Singapore’s most reliable licensed money lender providing flexible personal loans which you can use in any way you want, such as purchasing your mattress.

5 Travel Spots Perfect for the Year-End Holidays

5 Affordable Destinations Perfect for the Year-End Holidays

With only a month left in 2016, where do you plan to go without burning a hole in your pocket? Discover the most affordable destinations perfect for the year-end holidays in Asia.

The Best Destinations Perfect for the Year-End Holidays

Cambodia

Located between Vietnam and Thailand, Cambodia has gained popularity among tourists mostly because of Angkor Wat. Going to the temples of Angkor Wat, take a bike and enjoy the scenic view of landscapes and take in the fresh air from nature. Then, go to the beach and bury your toes in the sands as you watch the waves kiss the shore. If salt water is not your thing, you can just visit Tonle Sap, a vast lake that can change its flow direction twice a year.

Of course, the tour won’t be complete if you pass up Amok Trey, the famous fish dish with curry and coconut milk. Try the green papaya salad known as Bok L’hong. Love chicken dishes? Order Caw, Cambodia’s version of chicken stew with caramelised palm sugar.

Malaysia

With a fast-growing technology industry, Malaysia is still known to have diverse traditions and cultures. Visit the tea plantations in Cameron Highlands and bring home handpicked leaves. If you are after a nature trip, go to Taman Negara and experience what its rainforest offers.

Try the signature breakfast, Nasi lemak, which is mixed with milk and coconut cream if you like rice. Then, have some renditions, or meat stewed in various spices. Like peanuts? Satay has skewered meat seasoned with herbs and served with peanut dip.

Vietnam

Vietnam is known for its floating market called Mekong Delta. Experience the country’s rural life and bargain for fun. Order the famous Pho, a traditional broth with noodles, meat, and spices, if you get hungry haggling. Suppose you want some snacks, order Banh xeo, a local dish made of crispy rice crepe.

Mekong Delta Vietnam | 5 Affordable Destinations Perfect for the Year-End Holidays

Credit: https://www.mekong-delta-tours.com/travel-guide/where-is-mekong-delta-vietnam.html

Thailand

When in Thailand, you can’t miss The Grand Palace’s impressive architecture and landscape. Let your eyes feast on a variety of birds and tigers, and elephants in Khao Yai National Park. If you are into white beaches with clear blue waters, you must visit Ko Tarutao.

Indonesia

If you are in Indonesia, you must visit the beautiful Buddhist Temple Borobudur during sunrise to experience the awe and serenity the environment brings. Beach bums will surely enjoy Bali. Take in the scene, breathe in the salty breeze before snorkelling to see the living coral reefs. Also, enjoy Nasi Goreng, Indonesia’s signature spicy fried rice dish served with cucumber and tomatoes topped with eggs, shrimp and chicken. Finally, have a serving of Bakmi. An egg noodle served with meat and vegetables.

The Best Credit Cards to Bring Perfect for the Year-End Holidays 

Citi PremierMiles Visa Card

You can earn 10 Citi Miles for every dollar you spend when you book your travels online. If you apply for the card now, you can get up to 42,000 Miles:

  • 15,000 Miles is you spend any amount
  • 15,000 Miles if you spend at least $10,000 in three months
  • 12,000 Miles is the accumulated Miles based on the $10,000 spent
  • Spend the long weekend overseas and get 50% more miles

Standard Chartered Visa Infinite Card

  • Get 3 Miles in every $ you spend overseas with a minimum spend of $2,000
  • If you can’t reach the minimum amount, you can still get 2.5 points or 1 mile for each $.
  • Get a priority pass to airport lounges
  • Up to $1,000,000 of coverage for accidental death
  • Baggage loss is also covered by up to $5,000

OCBC Voyage Card

  • Get 2.3 VOYAGE MILES every time you spend $1 converted from foreign currency.
  • Earn 2.3 VOYAGE MILES for each $1 you spend dining locally
  • Have 1 VOYAGE MILES with every $1 spent locally
  • Have a complimentary limousine transfer service
  • Get a complimentary travel insurance worth up to $1 million

OCBC Voyage Card | 5 Affordable Destinations Perfect for the Year-End Holidays

Credit: https://www.ocbc.com/personal-banking/cards/voyage-credit-card.page

ANZ Travel Visa Signature Card

  • Have 1.4 air miles for every $1 spend
  • Get priority access to worldwide airport lounges with a minimum spend of $10,000 every quarter.
  • Airport Limousine Service
  • Complimentary travel insurance

UOB PRVI Miles VISA Card

  • Get 6 miles for every $1 you spend on major hotels and airports
  • You get 2.4 miles for each $1 you spend overseas
  • Travel Insurance worth up to $1,000,000
  • If you sign up now, you will get 10,000 welcome miles.

Travelling is now one of the rewards Singaporeans give themselves every now and then. Since you want to enjoy your money’s worth, you have to plan where you will go and what you want to experience. Bring along your loved ones and share the priceless memories. Also, choose which credit card to take with you to have more convenience and further rewards.

Another way to celebrate perfect for the year-end holidays is to secure funds in your pocket. Visit a legit moneylending company like Cash Mart. It approves a short-term personal loan for any of your needs. Check it out now!

Why Singaporeans Overspend on Holidays Overseas?

Reasons Budget Travelling Singaporeans Overspend on Holidays Overseas

It is common for Singaporeans overspend on holidays, especially overseas. Find out the top reasons why it happens.

Over the years, while Singapore has been a hot spot for tourism for foreigners, the number of Singaporeans spending holidays overseas is constantly growing. Furthermore, it is even bound to rank as the fourth outbound city market until 2020.

It seems everyone will grab every opportunity to spend the long weekend in another country. Their reason is to escape the gruelling work life.  So, where have your neighbours and relatives been going? According to GfK’s Travelscan data, most Singaporeans headed to China, Thailand and Hong Kong. However, China gets 20% of the outbound Singaporean flight with the intent of leisure. As for Thailand, it gets 16% of the outbound flights. Bangkok, Phuket, and Chiang Mai are its most visited cities.

However, China is still at the highest rank. Although its flight bookings have decreased by 6%, many are now eyeing Japan. All because of the increasing strength of the Singaporean Dollar. It means you can buy more stuff in Japan now. Plus, you can enjoy more cherry blossoms.

budget travelling singaporeans overspends holidays overseas

Credit: https://www.travelandleisure.com/travel-tips/what-to-do-before-flight

Singaporeans Overspend on Holidays: Budget Travelling Mistakes

Avoiding other travellers

Do not avoid other backpackers. You are missing out on the fun of backpacking. In addition, a great chance to save up on your ride to your next destination. You will be ecstatic to know their willingness to offer you a shared ride. Some go to your next destination if you are luckily going in the same direction. Also, they may give you tips on where you can get the cheapest yet a good place to sleep and eat. It comes in handy instead of spending too much time walking around and figuring out transportation and accommodation on your own. Furthermore, fellow backpackers can teach you the route of intercity buses or perhaps how to haggle fare with tuk-tuks and songthaews.

Take hostel security lightly.

You can never be too sure about your safety when you sleep if you are stingy enough to sleep in shared accommodation. So always keep your valuables near you. You can even purchase a bicycle chain to lock your bag in the bedpost. It may sound silly. But, it might just save you from a lot of worries and unnecessary expenses if you lose your stuff.

Paying for not pre-booked luggage

Pre-booked luggage of 15kg can cost $20. Failure to pre-book may cause you $50 and more. So if you went to Thailand with just a backpack and now you have a couple of large colourful bags beside your bedpost, remember to book your luggage. If you have already booked your flight, do not hesitate to call your airline. Adjust your luggage booking as you need.

Singaporeans overspend on holidays due to unorganised backpack

There are times when you have stuff in your home yet do not mind packing it up. So when you need it on your trip, you end up buying the same item at a ridiculous price.

Here are the things you have to keep in your bag.

Water bottle

We have 7-11 in almost every street to grab a bottle of ice-cold water to quench your dried throat. However, it might not be the same in other countries. Are you not sure about the availability of convenience stores in your travel destination? It is better to have a water bottle you can refill in the water dispensers available in your accommodation. It is more practical than buying expensive bottled water while going on your adventure.

Snacks

We all know snacks are like gold in hot tourist spots. It is very expensive. Plus, it might not be too mouthwatering for your palate. However, you have no choice but to chomp it down because you are too hungry walking under the scorching heat.

Always carry a small bag of biscuits or crackers around. It replenishes your energy until you reach a restaurant more soothing to your taste and budget.

Insect repellant

Going to tropical countries where it is too humid? Expect swarms of mosquitoes to ruin your night escapades and sleep. Also, these mosquitoes are potential carriers of dengue and malaria virus. To protect yourself, you must carry your insect repellant. Unfortunately, some local repellants and bug sprays don’t work well. It is better to have your trusted insect repellant than regret sleepless nights during your holiday.

Smartphone

We all know the growing attachment Singaporeans have with Wi-Fi, yet this is not only for games such as Pokemon Go. Smartphones are now necessary to navigate places at ease. Also, it contacts your family to assure them of your safety. In addition, you can download offline maps if you are not sure of your constant connection with the web.

Power bank and charger

Of course, your smartphone will be useless without power. So always be sure to have your power bank and charger with you every time you go out. Also, have an outlet adapter if possible. Different countries have various kinds of electrical outlets. The last thing you want is an incompatible charger with the accommodation’s outlet. Or else your smartphone battery is already drained for hours.

Quick-dry towel

Since you are a budget traveller, you tend to sleep in hostels, cheap hotels and guesthouses. These charge fees for dry towels. To save up, bring a quick-dry towel that will be handy. It is usually lightweight and can be folded into a smaller size. Therefore, it saves up on space. In addition, it takes only a couple of hours to dry, unlike the regular towels.

Travel insurance

If you consider skipping travel insurance on your must-have list, you endanger your safety and finances. While there is a chance that you will not even use the insurance, there are moments when you will be thankful you have purchased one. Most travel insurance covers medical bills abroad. Others even cover lost luggage, delayed flights and missed the connection.

Using credit cards

Overall Singaporeans overspend on holidays might increase by 2.5% to 3%. It happens, especially if you keep swiping your credit card overseas. So make sure to get your SD converted into the correct currency of your travel destination. Examples are Baht, Yen, Pesos, and others.

Buying travel insurance offered by airlines

There is a lot of travel insurance shoved on your face if you look online. However, you have to make sure that you get the best one. So take time to shop around and remember that there could be better travel insurance than your airline offered.

Pre-existing medical conditions

Check if the travel insurance covers pre-existing medical conditions. For example, what if you collapse while chomping down on steak in the middle of the Bahamas sunset due to a pre-existing heart problem? Most airline travel insurance will not cover you.

Trip disruption

Most travel insurance will entice you with promising money claims if you experience disrupted flights due to unforeseen circumstances. However, be sure to read the fine prints. You will see that some insurers have a wider range of coverage than others. For example, you usually get a payout with cancelled, postponed, or delayed flights. Still, only a handful of insurance will pay for your extra plane ticket or accommodation. They consider it if your flight gets cancelled while you are overseas. Also, it covers illness, natural disasters and strikes or riots.

Missed connections

Long flight travels need connecting flights, and stories of missed connecting flights are not new to us. It is like a nightmare nobody wants to experience in real life. If you are on a budget flight, it is your responsibility to book your two separate flights at the most convenient time. Only a few travel insurance will pay for your missed connecting flight.

Overbooked flights and public transport

Overbooking results from oversold flights because airlines expect some no-show passengers. However, there are times when passengers get bumped. It means there are limited seats for too many passengers. If you get bumped, you might have to stay at the airport or find accommodation. Some airline travel insurance will only give you a $100 voucher as compensation. Choose travel insurance which will cover not only your overbooked flight ticket. But, also your accommodation and other overbooked transport such as trains and buses.

Kidnap and hostage

Singaporeans know that there is a slim chance of getting kidnapped and hostage. But won’t it be a bit relieving to know your travel insurance compensates you?

Personal liability

Some of us do stupid things when we get away from our own country and experience different environments. Others get too drunk and get into a bar fight. Some run over pets or even locals due to irresponsible driving. Unfortunately, only a handful of travel insurance will cover personal liabilities and will cover your legal fees.

In need of extra cash for your overseas holiday with your loved ones? Do not let this be the reason to miss out on the once in a lifetime chance. You can get a personal loan from Cash Mart in just 30 minutes. Drop by Cash Mart office today to start your smooth loan transaction. It saves Singaporeans overspend on holidays outside the country. 

How to Use Pokémon GO to Instantly Boost your Sales

How to Use Pokémon GO to Instantly Boost your Sales

By the looks of the social media platforms, you will instantly see how Pokemon Go caught players all over the globe. With the combined existing fandom of hit anime series and Nintendo video games, Pokemon, and unique role-playing simulation game with augmented reality, Pokemon Go had made a grand hit. And it has landed here in Singapore.

To give you an idea of how much impact it brought to Singapore, you can see various organizations posting and using relevant hashtags to keep players within safety boundaries. For example, the Republic of Singapore Air Force, Singapore Police Force, and PUB reminded the Pokemon Go players to keep out of the restricted premises and be alert to their surroundings. With Poke-fever, now is your chance to lure more consumers.

use Pokémon GO

Credit: https://www.bbc.com/news/blogs-trending-37752730

Your Business Can be a Gym or PokeStop

You have to open the Pokemon Go app to check the map if your shop is a Pokemon Gym or a PokeStop. The Pokemon Gym is where players of one team coming from either team Mystic, Valor, or Instinct can challenge another team and gain leadership over the gym. A PokeStop is where players can get items, eggs, and pokeballs and see where other Pokemons could be hiding.

If your shop is not indicated as either a gym or a PokeStop, you can send a request.

Activate ‘Lure’ for just US$1

With a Lure Module, you can attract Pokemons for at least 30 minutes. Pokemons do not just pop up in many locations. Some players are voicing frustrations over social media as they can’t find any Pokemons in their places. Use this to your advantage.

To activate Lure, you must tap the Pokeball icon at the bottom. Next, choose ‘Shop,’ then tap the purple icon. You will have to pay at least US$1 for 30 minutes of luring effect. Once redirected to the app, tap the Pokeball Icon to choose ‘Items.’ You can finally activate the Lure. Pokemons will appear and spawn faster than in other areas.

Capitalize on your business near Pokemon Gyms

If you are lucky enough to be near a gym, then take advantage and use it as a marketing tool. Since gyms attract a lot of players, you can whip up various marketing strategies.

  • Give freebies to those who can show a screenshot of a high-level Pokemon caught. It could be a small item, but a freebie is still a freebie. If your shop is a café, you can offer free Pokemon latte design, in which the player can take a photo and post on Facebook and other social media.
  • Give discounts for the winning team: either team Mystic, Valor, or Instinct. In addition, you can keep a board on top of your counter to inform players which team the gym currently belongs to.
  • Expand your social existence by using relevant hashtags such as #pokemongo. You can post various catch praise with hashtags or even use photos of players in your store and screenshots of items and Pokemons near your brand or logo.

Take your business where Pokemon Go

Open the app Pokemon Go and activate Incense, then take a screenshot photo of a rare Pokemon that appeared in your shop. Post it on your social media accounts and website. Optimize your Facebook existence with tools such as AdEspresso to catch the attention of the locals specifically.

Put signage on your window offering charging stations with free Wi-Fi

Pokemon Go uses data or WiFi because it is an online line. It also uses GPS to track the players. While players are out catching Pokemons, it is very possible that they run out of battery juice. Attract the players by letting them charge up in your shop either for free or at a cheap price.

You can ask players to Check-In while they are in your shop.

Users can Check-In in on their social media apps. It will tell their friends and followers their current location. Imagine what this can potentially do with your shop. Facebook keeps tabs on the number of people who ‘check in’ in a particular spot. Also, it creates suggestions for their followers and friends. For example, you can offer a freebie in exchange for a check-in.

With permission, take a video of the players in your shop.

Have you seen various videos players put up on Facebook and Instagram? You can do the same in your shop. If you spot players taking their time catching Pokemons, ask their permission you can take a video. Sometimes Pokemon hunting makes people look ridiculous. Players must walk the distance and go to places just to get a rare Pokemon and special items. You can attract them by showing that your shop is the hub players usually hang out.

Take advantage of the Pokemon Go and the cheap advertising chances. If you need more cash to add to your working capital, do not hesitate to choose Cash Mart. While the Pokefrenzy may not last forever, these advertising tips are still ventures worth a try as this make be your chance to take your brand to the top. Get the best personal loan in Singapore only from Cash Mart to start luring your consumers today.

7 Affordable Travel Destinations to Tour Your Friends in Singapore

7 Affordable Travel Destinations to Tour Your Friends in Singapore

Got foreign visitors coming this weekend? Tour them around the country with these top 7 affordable travel destinations.

When we meet new friends and travel to other countries, we tend to invite them to Singapore. Likewise, we tell them to call us up when they turn up in our own city-state.

What if they hit you up on email or chat? Then, they tell you that they are going to Singapore? Afterwards, they’ll stay for a weekend as a stopover before riding the plane to their next destination.

You may get excited about meeting your friends. But, what if you don’t have enough funds to take them around Singapore?

Fret not.

Here are affordable travel destinations to take your visitors.

Enjoy free tours and concerts in the Singapore Botanic Gardens

Singapore Botanic Gardens | 7 affordable travel destinations

Credit: https://www.visitsingapore.com/see-do-singapore/nature-wildlife/parks-gardens/singapore-botanic-gardens/

Take a stroll with your friends in the Botanic Gardens spanning 74 hectares. This year, the Singapore Botanic Gardens celebrates the Heritage Festival. In addition, this event has activities like carnivals and free concerts.

They will not only enjoy the luscious green scenery. But, they will also get to see live bands and orchestras. Moreover, visit the Singapore Botanic Gardens website for free activities and giveaways during festivals.

Address: 1 Cluny Rd, Singapore 259569

Admission Fee: Free

See the Supertrees at Gardens by the Bay!

Supertrees at Gardens by the Bay | 7 affordable travel destinations

Credit: https://www.gardensbythebay.com.sg/en/things-to-do/attractions/supertree-grove.html

Singapore may be the smallest state in the world. But, it has a mega-sized horticulture haven. Your visitors will be in awe of the giant man-made trees. Plus, their marvellous light shows at night.

Aside from the giant trees, they can relish the various species of plants and flowers. Take them to the Sun Pavillion, Heritage Gardens, World of Plants, and the Dragonfly & Kingfisher Lakes. These attractions are open daily for free from 5 am to 2 am. Also, visit the Gardens by the Bay website for other fun activities.

Address: 18 Marina Gardens Dr, Singapore 018953

Admission Fee: Free

Get the cultural fix at the National Museum of Singapore

National Museum of Singapore

Credit: https://www.cntraveler.com/activities/national-museum-of-singapore

Your foreign friends will be happy to join the free guided tours. You can marvel at the 11 national treasures. Also, there are various exhibitions showcased in this museum.

Your visitors will enjoy learning about Singapore’s diverse, multicultural heritage. In addition, the children tagging along can experience sensorial stations, hands-on play, and story-telling sessions. Most of the exhibits are free for children ages six and below.

Don’t forget to visit the National Museum of Singapore website. It helps you know the new activities this season.

Address: 93 Stamford Road, Singapore 178897

Admission Fee: $10 to $15; Free for some exhibits

Shop til you drop at ION Orchard

Ion Orchard

Credit: https://www.wsp.com/en-TH/projects/singapore-orchard-residences-and-ion-orchard

If your visitors love shopping, take them to ION Orchard. There are 22 malls, 6 department stores, multi-label boutiques, and a chain of quirky bookstores. If shopping is not their thing, they can still enjoy the place. Be marvelled by their entertainment. For example, listen to live bands or watch street performers.

The ION Sky adds to its charm. Furthermore, people can feast their eyes on the 360-degree view of Singapore’s cityscape. This observation deck is free of charge. Plus, it is open daily from 3 pm to 6 pm.

Address: 2 Orchard Turn, Singapore 238801

Admission Fee: Free at the observation deck

Unleash the comic geek at Atom Comics

Atom Comics Singapore

Credit: https://geekculture.co/recap-free-comic-book-day-2015-singapore/

Atom Comics is a comic shop in the middle of the city. Bruce Doral Boudville, the owner, loves to welcome comic enthusiasts to open various discussions. This shop usually has comic sales. The best part, it starts at $2.

Also, Boudville offers t-shirts and other hard to find memorabilia. Are your friends are comic geeks who collect comic merchandise? This is the haven they will never forget.

Address: 2 Handy Road, #03-02, The Cathay, Singapore 229233

Admission Fee: Free to look around the shop; a comic can cause at least $2

Trek through Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve

Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve

Credit: https://www.visitsingapore.com/en_ph/see-do-singapore/nature-wildlife/reserves/sungei-buloh-wetland-reserve/

Singapore may be a city-state, but we can boast of our nature’s wonder. Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve is rich in biodiversity. It even has wetlands with an extensive mangrove forest.

Join the free guided treks to see ecological jewels. See the crabs, shellfish, mudskippers, water snakes, monitor lizards, spiders, and otters. In addition, visit during migratory seasons. Thi way, you will witness diverse flocks of shorebirds. Know the best birdwatching season this year by visiting here.

Address: 301 Neo Tiew Cres, Singapore 718925

Admission Fee: Free

Dare to enter Haw Par Villa

Haw Par Villa | 7 affordable travel destinations

Credit: https://theculturetrip.com/asia/singapore/articles/a-guide-to-haw-par-villa-singapores-nightmare-theme-park/

This park has over 1000 statues and 150 dioramas. They show various Chinese mythologies, making it a great place for Chinese culture enthusiasts.

Some dioramas may be creepy for children. But, they are fascinating for most adults. The most known attractions are the “Ten Stages of Hell”. These life-sized dioramas depict gruesome punishments for every sin a person has done. If your visitors are into unconventional attractions, take them to Haw Par Villa.

Address: 262 Pasir Panjang Road, Singapore 118628

Admission Fee: Free

Most of us have friends and families overseas. So even if they suddenly knock at your doorsteps, you will know where to take them without burning a hole in your pocket. Here in Singapore, there is a place for everyone to enjoy for free.

Since having visitors from other countries does not happen often, you might want to take them somewhere grand. However, if you need more cash to make their visit worthwhile, you can get a personal loan from Cash Mart. Cash Mart offers fast cash loans for your every need. Find out more by visiting CashMart.sg today.

Secrets to Snag the Best Shopping Deals this Black Friday

Secrets to Snag the Best Shopping Deals this Black Friday

Black Friday is “Fri-Yay” for avid online shoppers. So it is when the most prominent online shops offer the best shopping deals this Black Friday.

What is Black Friday?

Black Friday is the first Friday after Thanksgiving Day. This tradition originated in America when merchants were thinking of a way to turn their losses into profits. Losses are marked as red, and their goal is to turn them into the black by putting unwanted stocks into outrageous sales. This year, it has been estimated that on 25th November 2016, the sales will amount to USD 60 Billion.

Though most merchants in malls of Singapore still haven’t gotten into this craze, online shops made it a day of sales bonanza and extended it up to Cyber Monday.

The best shopping deals this Black Friday

Credit: https://goltoninthegap.com.au/black-friday-sale-2019/

Tips to strike the best online shopping deals this Black Friday

Make a wish list

Since there will be too many items that will catch your interest, you have to focus on the items you need and the things you have been eyeing for some time now. So put first your priorities and then put the least wanted at the bottom. Finally, list down the current prices to have a reference.

Set your budget

Because you are bound to see many items, you might go on a shopping spree. Also, online shops have developed a technique to keep shoppers at the edge of their seats so they won’t be able to consider what they are buying. Some items are on sale for a limited time only. Buyers won’t be able to cross-check if the purchase is worth it. It is better not to shop under pressure. Also, prepare your wish list and budget in mind.

Compare prices and the real value of the items.

There are times when buyers do not know the actual value of the items they are buying. For example, let’s say that Amazon put Rubbermaid storage containers for $16. You might think that this is a good deal. However, when looking at the items’ previous prices, other shops sold them for $10 last month. Earlier this month, it was sold at $14. This way, you know that the deal is not as good as you first thought.

On the other hand, Zalora is selling Nike Free TR Flyknit Running Shoes at $135. Then you discover that the price has been at $209 since early this year. Therefore, it is a good deal to take.

Check bargain hunting websites.

Do not miss the items you have wanted to buy. Follow bargain hunting websites such as CUPONATION by setting up an alarm on its website. You can also sign up for the shopping websites’ newsletter.

Do not buy everything in just one shopping.

Take your time, do not be pressured to buy everything in one sitting because there is a high chance of better sales as the day progresses. Also, remember that though Black Friday is the big day, Cyber Monday is still on its way.

Do not be tempted with free gifts.

Online merchants include gifts in their items to tempt the buyers. For example, let’s say Samsung S7 Edge is at $1,088. You may not be considering it yet. But if there is a free battery pack coming with it, you might be tempted to have second thoughts.

Online Shopping Sites with the Best Black Friday Sales

  1. Zalora Black Friday Sale will be from 25 to 28 November with discounts of 80%. However, if you want an exclusive discount of 18%, you can register at zalora.sg as a new user.
  2. Lazada Online Revolution offers great deals now until 12 December. The event started on Single’s Day and runs for a month. So save your budget as the best sales are still coming. Watch out for the discount codes with partner merchants to get the most out of them.
  3. Amazon has a lot of offers but waits until the big day. So watch out for limited sales. In addition, Citi Rewards Visa Cardholders get 20 Reward Points or 8 miles for every $1 you spend on Amazon until 31 December.
  4. ASOS has exciting sales from Black Friday to Cyber Monday, with offers as low as 70% off. Take advantage of the free shipping if you spend more than S$20. It is via normal delivery, and it will take 7 days. However, if you spend more than $250, you get express delivery for only 2 to3 days.
  5. Shopback giveaways are $100 cashback credit through a referral programme. If it is your first time referring, you will get an extra S$30. Keep an eye on the yellow money bag icon, which means more cash back. Use your Visa credit card to get up to 6% rebates.

Buyer’s Tip

Consider the previous prices of the items to know if you are purchasing with a good deal. If the previously offered price is lower, it is a bad deal as the item can still get cheaper soon.

Do you prefer brick-and-mortar shopping, but you need more cash? Then, get a loan from Cash Mart.

Look Out for the Best Credit Card Christmas Deals

Watch Out for the Best Credit Card Christmas Deals

Christmas gives you a perfect excuse to go shopping. Get the best credit card Christmas deals this holiday season.

In addition, Christmas gives you a perfect excuse to go shopping while the banks have the right reason to entice you with the best credit card deals. Discover these promos before the year ends.

Maybank

  • Still not done wrapping your Christmas gifts? Take them to Maybank’s participating branches at Northpoint, Waterway Point, Jurong Point, and NEX mall until 24 December 2016. Do not forget to show your charge slips to avail the free gift wrapping.
  • Going somewhere before the year ends? Get a $50 cash rebate when you charge at least $1,500 worth of Singapore Airlines ticket purchases. To claim your rebate, you must send an SMS with the code MBSQ and your name, NRIC, and quantity. You can only redeem your rebates twice.
  • When you go shopping overseas, you can earn a $70 cash rebate to purchase at least $1,000 with your Maybank Credit Card. Do not forget to send an SMS to 79898 containing the keyword “OSR,” your name, and quantity. You only have a maximum of two redemptions.

Maybank Singapore | Watch Out for the Best Credit Card Christmas Deals

Standard Chartered

  • You can get a 15% cashback when you charge a total minimum spend of $5,000, including online and overseas purchases. However, you must remember that the cashback is capped at $150.
  • With every charge worth $150 or more in just a single eligible transaction, you will get a chance to play. You can only have one chance a day. So do not forget to register either online or through SMS.

Rewards

  • You can take home a Samsonite Casso 28” Spinner luggage if you spend a minimum of $8,000 up to S$15,999. However, be mindful to check if it is still available during your purchase, as it is only given to the first 3,500 cardholders.
  • If you want to spend quality time with your significant other, you might be lucky if you are one of the first 1,000 cardholders who spent S$16,000 and above this season. Then, you can avail a free overnight stay in the Wonderful Room at W Singapore – Sentosa Cove.
  • You can have a chance to win two Singapore Airlines Suites tickets to fly to Paris. For the first $1,000 spent, you get 10 chances. Then every S$100 spent will give you one additional chance. However, if you purchase less than S$1,000, you won’t be qualified.

Standard Chartered | Watch Out for the Best Credit Card Christmas Deals

DBS / POSB

Redeem instant gifts with the DBS Lifestyle app with every single-receipt purchase of at least $250. Note that you only get a chance to play once a day, and only 1000 cardholders can register per day.

On your first to the fifth redemption, you can get S$5 cash credit. It will increase to S$10 on your 6th to 10th redemption. Should you redeem 11 times or more, you will get S$15. Aside from cash credit, you can also choose other special gifts such as a free stay in The Fullerton Hotel Singapore, a dining voucher at The Ritz-Carlton Millenia Singapore, Wing Tai Retail shopping vouchers, and AirAsia BIG Points.

Do not forget to refresh your DBS Lifestyle app. Tap “Christmas 2016 Spend & Redeem” to register and start the game. Select a gift box to get your e-coupons and redeem your gifts.

POSB Credit Cards

Citibank

To qualify for Citibank’s holiday promos, you have to register by sending the SMS to 72484 using your Citibank registered mobile number.

Spend & Get

If you are one of the first 1,000 registered cardholders to spend at least $5,000, then you are eligible to take home the 20” Travel Luggage (K-2SO). Or, if you are one of the first 2,000 cardholders to spend S$2,000 to S$4,999, you will get the Duffle Bag (Death Star). The promo will end on 26 January 2017.

Trip-for-2 to Orlando for the STAR WARS Celebration

With every S$50 spent with your Citi Card, you will get a chance to win a pair of roundtrip tickets to Orlando on April 12, 2017. It includes five nights and six days of hotel accommodation and a US$200 spending spree at the Disney Store.

Citibank Singapore | Watch Out for the Best Credit Card Christmas Deals

OCBC

  • You can get 20% off of your total food and beverage bill at the Fairmont Singapore, Antidote, provided that your payment is fully charged on your OCBC credit card.
  • Get 10% off of Swensen’s / Earle Swensen’s ice cream log cakes from 12 Dec to 25 Dec 2016.
  • Receive 8% off from your hotel accommodations in Singapore, Macau and Hong Kong. Other hotel feelings in any other destinations will be deducted by 7%.
  • By entering the voucher code, you will be entitled to 10% off your hotel bookings on expedia.com.
  • You can have $10 off with the $80 you spend when shopping in any Royal Sporting House Outlets. However, it is only valid for the first 3,000 eligible customers.
  • Lazada gives $7 off with at least $50 spent. If you are a new customer, you will get $10 off.

OCBC Credit Cards in Singapore

HSBC

You must first register your card by creating an SMS: Christmas16-digit credit card number, then send it to 74722. Then, charge your Christmas purchases on your card, but you must reach the minimum spend to qualify.

You can get $10 CapitaVouchers with every $500 charged on the card. Note that you can only acquire a maximum of 5 vouchers.

HSBC Singapore | Watch Out for the Best Credit Card Christmas Deals

UOB Credit Card Christmas Deals

  • Get 15% off Cold Stone Creamery log cakes until 31st Dec 2016. You must order the log cake 3 working days in advance.
  • If you are going out of the country, spend a minimum of $300 overseas and earn 2.4 miles for each $1 spent.
  • Get 5 to 10% off from Dean & DeLuca Christmas related purchases until 29 Dec 2016.

UOB Credit Card Singapore

Christmas is inevitably coming faster as we prepare our gifts and parties. If you prefer cash for your holiday shopping, get a quick cash loan from Cash Mart today.

What You Need to Know About Credit Cards

What You Need to Know About Credit Cards

Singaporeans are not new when it comes to credit card use. In July 2016, 7,940,471 credit cards existed in the city-state, excluding the supplementary cards. Since most Singaporeans have a personal bank account, you must have encountered the enchanted card called Credit Cards. It seems that you can avail anything with a single swipe. First, however, you must understand what it really is to be able to maximise its use and prevent caving into shopping temptations.

Credit Cards in Singapore

Credit Cards are unsecured loans offered by banks with terms and conditions, which can get tricky. However, many credit card programmes offered in Singapore also have various appealing perks. Though it seems you can purchase anything just by swiping these plastic cards or sending their details to online merchants, you must remember that it has a credit limit. You can shop both in establishments and e-commerce sites with a credit card. Also, you can use some credit cards to withdraw cash from ATM branches. The biggest credit card issuers are UOB, Citibank and DBS Bank.

To understand how credit cards work, you must know the parties involved every time you use them for transactions. Cardholders are the individuals authorised to purchase goods and pay for services through credit cards. Cardholders include your spouse and kids with your supplementary cards. The consumer finance companies and banks which issue credit cards are Card Issuers. The merchants are the shops and e-commerce sites you transact with.

When you buy something online with your credit card, the bank (Merchant Acquirer) will process the transaction with POS terminals. Credit Card Organisations are the middlemen who link the merchant acquirers and card issuers. These are the logos you see on your cards, such as Visa and MasterCard.

what you need to know about credit cards

Credit: https://therantingpanda.com/2018/10/18/snippets-battle-of-the-visa-infinite-credit-cards-in-singapore-the-low-down-of-each-card-and-which-visa-infinite-credit-card-should-you-get/

General Types of Credit Cards

General Purpose Local Currency Credit Cards

These are the standard cards categorised as classic, gold and platinum, which you can avail of depending on your salary range and creditworthiness. Once your credit card gets approved, your spouse and children can have supplementary cards. If you use your card overseas, all your transactions will be converted into Singaporean Dollars, and you will be charged 1% to 2% for a foreign transaction fee. The bank will establish the credit limit according to your finances.

 Prepaid Credit Cards

These are cards not tied to any existing checking account. Thus it does not help with building up your credit score. You only need to load money onto the card to be able to use it to purchase stuff or pay for services. There are no minimum payments since all your purchases will be deducted from your card’s balance. You can renew your spending limit by reloading your card.

Limited Purpose Credit Cards

Limited Purpose Cards are used for large merchant partners such as stores and gasoline stations. Use these credit cards with minimum finance charge and payments. Some known Limited Purpose Cards are Takashimaya Cards and DBS Esso Card. Depending on the rules, limits and restrictions of the cards, you can earn discounts, points, privileges and even airline miles which can also expire if you don’t use them.

Business Credit Cards

People in business need to keep their transactions separate from their personal life. That is why business credit cards are designed for them.

Student Credit Cards

The design is for college students who do not have any credit score history yet, and it is their first time being a credit card applicant. In addition, the cards may come with various perks, such as low-interest rates on balance transfers.

Cashback Rebates

These are rebates you get every time you use your credit cards in a transaction. The accumulated rebates may be credited each month or per quarter of the year. The more spending you do, the more rebate you can get as the general rate range from 1% to 3%.

Reward Points

Reward points are part of a loyalty scheme to attract more customers to the business. Each merchant can have a different set of terms and guidelines with the pointing system. The points can then be exchanged for air miles, gifts and vouchers.

Credit Card Interest

When comparing credit card monthly interest charges, use the Effective Interest Rate (EIR), which usually ranges from 25% to 28%. Various banks start charging interest rates at various periods. Some banks start charging a month after your credit card gets approved, while others start later.  It is an interest-free period. Your grace period will be forfeited if you fail to pay your balance from the previous month.

Credit card terms and conditions can be very tricky. That’s why you need to know about credit cards. Ensure you understand all the conditions and know all the costs you incur to prevent outstanding fees. Use credit cards only when you need them the most. If you end up with maxed-out credit limits yet need to make an immediate purchase. Do not fret. You can always get a personal loan from Cash Mart.