earnings Archives - Page 85 of 278

Apache is functioning normally

June 6, 2023 by Brett Tams

The Offer

Direct Link to offer

Bank of America Premium Rewards Elite card is offering a signup bonus of 75,000 points (worth $750 cash) after you spend $5,000 on the new card.

Card Details

$550 annual fee
Up to $150 annually in statement credits for lifestyle conveniences, including streaming services, food delivery, fitness subscriptions and rideshare services. (applies to the following category codes: 4899,5399,5411,5422,5499,5691,5734,5815,5816,5817,5818,5921,5940,5964,5968,5969,5999,7032,7299,7372,7841,7997, and 7999)
Up to $300 annually in Airline Incidental Statement Credits for qualifying purchases like seat upgrades, baggage fees, in-flight services and airline lounge fees.
Up to $100 in statement credits for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fees (every four years).
Card earnings:
- 2 points for every dollar on travel and dining purchases
- 1.5 points per dollar on all other purchases
- Preferred Rewards members earn 25% – 75% more points on every purchase. This means clients could earn up to 3.5 points on travel and dining purchases, and up to 2.62 points on all other purchases, for every $1 they spend.
- Clients can redeem points for travel, cash back, a statement credit, distinctive experiences or gift cards.
20% savings on domestic and international airfare for any class when paying with points through the Bank of America Travel Center or concierge.
- That gives 25% additional value to the points. For top-tier Preferred Rewards members, this can potentially bring up the value of your points on travel/dining from 3.5 to 4.4 cents per point, and from 2.6 to 3.3 cents per point on all purchases (wow!)
Priority Pass Select Membership

See our full review on the Bank of America Elite Visa Infinite Card here.

Our Verdict

This 75,000 offer is a nice bump from the regular 50,000 points bonus which has been available since card launch in 2021. It does have a higher $5,000 spend requirement instead of the prior $3,000.

While the card does have a $550 annual fee that can potentially be offset with the $300 + $150 credits which will be able to be used twice during the first year. (I assume the $300 airline incidental credits could be used the same as the regular Premium Rewards card for AA gift card, cheap Southwest fare, etc.) If you would value those $900 in credits to mostly offset the annual fee, this then becomes a nice cash signup bonus offer.

We’ll add this to our List of Best Current Credit Card Signup Bonuses. Check out these Things To Know About Bank of America Credit Cards before applying. At the same time, Bank of America has bumped up the signup bonus on their Premium Rewards card from 50k to 60k.

Hat tip to reader Munchys

Source: doctorofcredit.com

Apache is functioning normally

June 5, 2023 by Brett Tams

Getting divorced can cause both emotional and financial upheaval for everyone involved. One of the most important questions you and your soon-to-be former spouse may have to decide centers on how to divide retirement assets.

Understanding the key issues around divorce and retirement can make it easier to untangle them as you bring your marriage to a close.

Taking Note of Your Retirement Accounts

The average cost of divorce can range from several hundred to several thousand dollars, so it’s important to know what’s at stake financially. Managing retirement accounts in divorce starts with understanding what assets you have.

There are several possibilities for saving money toward retirement, and different rules apply when dividing each. Here’s a look at what types of retirement accounts you may hold and thus will need to consider in your divorce.

401(k)

A 401(k) plan is a defined contribution plan that allows you to save money for retirement on a tax-advantaged basis. Your employer may also make matching contributions to the plan on your behalf. According to the Census Bureau, 34.6% of Americans have a 401(k) or a similar workplace plan, such as a 403(b) or Thrift Savings Plan.

IRA

Individual retirement accounts, or IRAs, also allow you to set aside money for retirement while enjoying some tax benefits. The difference is that these accounts are not offered by employers. There are several IRA options, including:

• Traditional IRAs, which allow for tax-deductible contributions.

• Roth IRAs, which allow for tax-free withdrawals in retirement.

• SEP IRAs, which follow traditional IRA tax rules and are designed for self-employed individuals.

• SIMPLE IRAs, which also follow traditional IRA tax rules and are designed for small business owners.

Each type of IRA has different rules regarding who can contribute, how much you can contribute annually, and the tax treatment of contributions and withdrawals.

💡 For more info, check out our guide on individual retirement accounts (IRAs).

Pension Plan

A pension plan is a type of defined benefit plan. The amount you can withdraw in retirement is determined largely by the number of years you worked for your employer and your highest earnings. That’s different from a 401(k), since the amount you can withdraw depends on how much you (and your employer) contribute during your working years.

How Are Retirement Accounts Split in a Divorce?

How retirement accounts are split in divorce can depend on several factors, including what type of accounts are up for division, how those assets are classified, and divorce laws regarding property division in your state. There are two key issues that must be determined first:

• Whether the retirement accounts are marital property or separate property

• Whether community property or equitable distribution rules apply

Legal Requirements for Dividing Assets

Marital property is property that’s owned by both spouses. An example of a tangible marital property asset is a home the two of you lived in together. Separate property is property that belongs to just one spouse.

In community property states, spouses have an equal share in assets accrued during the marriage. Equitable distribution states allow for an equitable — though not necessarily equal — split of assets in divorce.

You don’t have to follow state guidelines if you and your spouse can come to an agreement yourselves about how divorce assets should be divided. However, if you can’t agree, then you’ll be subject to the property division laws for your state.

If retirement assets are to be divided in divorce, there are certain steps that have to be taken to ensure the division is legal. With a workplace plan, you’ll need to obtain a Qualified Domestic Relations Order (QDRO). This is a court order that specifies how much each spouse should receive when dividing a 401(k) or similar workplace plan in divorce.

IRAs do not require a QDRO. You would, however, still need to put in writing who gets what when dividing IRAs in divorce. That information is typically included in the final divorce settlement agreement, which a judge must sign off on.

Protecting Your 401(k) in a Divorce

The simplest option for how to protect your 401(k) in a divorce may be to offer your spouse assets of equivalent value. For example, if you’ve saved $500,000 in your 401(k) and you jointly own a home that’s worth $250,000, you might agree to let them keep the home as part of the divorce settlement.

If they’re not open to the idea of a trade-off, you may have to split the assets through a QDRO. That could make a temporary dent in your savings, but you might be able to make it up over time if you continue to make new contributions.

You could skip the QDRO and withdraw money from your 401(k) to fulfill your obligations to your spouse under the terms of the divorce settlement. However, doing so could trigger a 10% early withdrawal penalty if you’re under age 59 ½, along with ordinary income tax on the distribution.

Protecting Your IRA in a Divorce

Traditional and Roth IRAs are subject to property division rules like other retirement accounts in divorce. Depending on where you live and what laws apply, you might have to split your IRA 50/50 with your spouse.

Again, you might be able to protect your IRA by asking them to accept other assets instead. Whether they’re willing to agree to that might depend on the nature of those assets, their value, and their own retirement savings.

If you’re splitting an IRA with a spouse, the good news is that you can avoid tax consequences if the transaction is processed as a transfer incident to divorce. Essentially, that would allow you to transfer money out of the IRA to your spouse, who would then be able to deposit it into their own IRA.

Divorce and Pensions

Pension plans are less common than 401(k) plans, but there are employers that continue to offer them. Generally, pension plan assets are treated as marital property for divorce purposes. That means your spouse would likely be entitled to receive some of your benefits even though the marriage has ended. State laws will determine how much your spouse is eligible to collect from your pension plan.

Protecting Your Pension in a Divorce

The best method for protecting a pension in divorce may be understanding how your pension works. The type of payout option you elect, for instance, can determine what benefits your spouse is eligible to receive from the plan. It’s also important to consider whether it makes sense to choose a lump-sum or annuity payment when withdrawing those assets.

If your spouse is receptive, you might suggest a swap of other assets for your pension benefits. When in doubt about how your pension works or how to protect pensions in a divorce, it may be best to talk to a divorce attorney or financial advisor.

Opening a New Retirement Account

Splitting retirement accounts in a divorce can be stressful. It’s important to know what your rights and obligations are going into the process. If you’re leaving a marriage with less money in retirement, it’s a good idea to know what options you have for getting back on track. That can include opening a new retirement account.

SoFi offers individual retirement accounts for people who want to invest with minimal hassle. You can open a traditional or Roth IRA online and choose between active or automated investing to fit your needs and goals.

Easily manage your retirement savings with a SoFi IRA.

FAQ

How long do you have to be married to get part of your spouse’s retirement?

If you’re interested in getting spousal retirement benefits from Social Security, you have to be married for at least one continuous year prior to applying. The one-year rule does not apply if you are the parent of your spouse’s child. Divorced spouses must have been married at least 10 years to claim spousal benefits.

Is it better to divorce before or after retirement?

Neither situation is ideal, but divorcing before retirement may be easier if there are fewer assets to divide. Getting a divorce after retirement can raise questions over how to divide retirement and non-retirement assets. It may also lead to financial insecurity on the part of one or both spouses if the distribution of assets is unequal.

Who pays taxes on a 401(k) in a divorce?

If you’re dividing up your 401(k) prior to divorcing then you would be responsible for paying any taxes or penalties owed. Waiting until after the divorce is finalized to split your 401(k) with your former spouse could reduce the amount of taxes and penalties you owe.

Photo credit: iStock/FG Trade Latin

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Source: sofi.com

Apache is functioning normally

June 5, 2023 by Brett Tams

Long, long ago, in a mystical forest with good Wi-Fi, Goldilocks opened an investing account with $3,000 to invest.

At first, she considered pouring more money into her retirement accounts (which only holds mutual fund investments). But her Roth IRA was already maxed out for the year. Moreover, she knew that she would need this money sooner than age 65.

“Too cold!” she said.

Next, she considered investing in individual stocks. But even though she’d done her due diligence, she knew that investing in individual securities can be very risky. She didn’t need to become a millionaire overnight – she just wanted to make enough money to buy a cottage in a few years.

“Too hot!” she said.

Finally, she began browsing ETFs. ETFs are generally more stable, diverse, and safe investments than individual stocks, but they’re also more accessible than your retirement account.

“Juuuuust right!” she said aloud.

10 years later, Goldilocks’ investment had paid off – thanks to a steady 10% APY, her $3,000 investment had become nearly $8,000, so she was finally able to pay restitution and legal fees to the family of bears down the way.

Thanks to inherent diversity and steady returns, ETFs are a great place to stash a few grand to help you save for a big expense years or decades down the line.

What’s Ahead:

Large-cap stock ETFs

Large-cap ETFs typically bundle together blue-chip stocks or even an entire index, providing steady, sizeable returns. Warren Buffet once famously said:

“I just think that the best thing to do is buy 90% in S&P 500 index fund.”

So I’ve included two such options on the list.

You’ll also see a lot of Vanguard funds on this list because, well, they’re just awesome all the way around. Vanguard funds are extremely popular among investors because they combine industry-leading returns with incredibly low expense ratios.

ETF	Symbol	Fund info	Expense ratio
Schwab US Large-Cap Growth ETF™	SCHG	The fund’s goal is to track as closely as possible, before fees and expenses, the total return of the Dow Jones U.S. Large-Cap Growth Total Stock Market Index.	0.04%
SPDR S&P 500 ETF	SPY	The SPDR® S&P 500® ETF Trust seeks to provide investment results that, before expenses, correspond generally to the price and yield performance of the S&P 500® Index (the “Index”).	0.0945%
Vanguard S&P 500 ETF	VOO	The Vanguard S&P 500 ETF invests in stocks in the S&P 500 Index, representing 500 of the largest U.S. companies.	0.03%
Vanguard Russell 1000 Growth ETF	VONG	The investment seeks to track the performance of the Russell 1000® Growth Index. The index is designed to measure the performance of large-capitalization growth stocks in the United States.	0.08%

Mid-cap stock ETFs

Goldilocks’ choice – mid-cap ETFs – bundle together companies that have an exciting growth curve before them, but are established enough not to fold overnight.

If you can tolerate a little more risk in exchange for higher potential returns than an index fund, consider these top picks:

ETF	Symbol	Fund info	Expense ratio
Vanguard Mid-Cap Growth ETF	VOT	VOT seeks to track the performance of the CRSP US Mid Cap Growth Index, which measures the investment return of mid-capitalization growth stocks.	0.07%
iShares Core S&P Mid-Cap ETF	IJF	IJF seeks to track the investment results of an index composed of mid-capitalization U.S. equities.	0.05%
Vanguard Mid-Cap ETF	VO	VO seeks to track the performance of the CRSP US Mid Cap Index, which measures the investment return of mid-capitalization stocks.	0.04%
Schwab U.S. Mid-Cap ETF	SCHM	SCHM’s goal is to track as closely as possible, before fees and expenses, the total return of the Dow Jones U.S. Mid-Cap Total Stock Market Index.	0.04%

Small-cap stock ETFs

If you’ve looked at your asset portfolio recently and thought “hmm… needs a little more spice,” then a small-cap ETF might add just the right amount of kick.

These ETFs track small companies with big potential, so they present higher risk but higher potential reward than large- or mid-cap ETFs.

ETF	Symbol	Fund info	Expense ratio
Vanguard S&P Small-Cap 600 Growth ETF	VIOG	VIOG employs an indexing investment approach designed to track the performance of the S&P SmallCap 600® Growth Index, which represents the growth companies, as determined by the index sponsor, of the S&P SmallCap 600 Index.	0.15%
Vanguard Small-Cap ETF	VB	VB seeks to track the performance of the CRSP US Small Cap Index, which measures the investment return of small-capitalization stocks.	0.05%
iShares Core S&P Small-Cap ETF	IJR	IJR seeks to track the investment results of an index composed of small-capitalization U.S. equities.	0.06%
Schwab U.S. Small-Cap ETF	SCHA	SCHA’s goal is to track as closely as possible, before fees and expenses, the total return of the Dow Jones U.S. Small-Cap Total Stock Market Index.	0.04%

International stock ETFs

ETF	Symbol	Fund info	Expense ratio
Vanguard Emerging Markets ETF	VWO	VWO invests in stocks of companies located in emerging markets around the world, such as China, Brazil, Taiwan, and South Africa.	0.10%
Vanguard Total International Stock ETF	VXUS	VXUS seeks to track the performance of the FTSE Global All Cap ex US Index, which measures the investment return of stocks issued by companies located outside the United States.	0.08%
SPDR® MSCI EAFE Fossil Fuel Free ETF	EFAX	EFAX seeks to offer climate-conscious investors exposure to international equities while limiting exposure to companies owning fossil fuel reserves.	0.20%
Vanguard FTSE Developed Markets ETF	VEA	VEA provides a convenient way to match the performance of a diversified group of stocks of large-, mid-, and small-cap companies located in Canada and the major markets of Europe and the Pacific region.	0.05%

Fixed income ETFs

ETF	Symbol	Fund info	Expense ratio
iShares Core U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF	AGG	AGG seeks to track the investment results of an index composed of the total U.S. investment-grade bond market.	0.05%
Vanguard Total Bond Market ETF	BND	BND’s investment objective is to seek to track the performance of a broad, market-weighted bond index.	0.035%
Vanguard Intermediate-Term Corporate Bond ETF	VCIT	VCIT seeks to provide a moderate and sustainable level of current income by investing primarily in high-quality (investment-grade) corporate bonds.	0.05%
Schwab 1-5 Year Corporate Bond ETF	SCHJ	SCHJ’s goal is to track as closely as possible, before fees and expenses, the total return of an index that measures the performance of the short-term U.S. corporate bond market.	0.05%

What does large-cap, mid-cap, etc. mean?

To start, “cap” refers to market capitalization, or the total value of a company’s shares on the market. For example, if a company has 1 million shares on the market valued at $10 a pop, their market cap would be $10 million.

Large-cap ETFs are comprised of companies each with a market cap of $10 billion or higher. The Vanguard Mega Cap ETF (MGC), for example, contains around 250 of the biggest companies in the USA, from Amazon to Apple. Since they’re often full of blue-chip stocks that provide slow-but-steady returns, large-cap ETFs are considered a safe, long-term investment.
Mid-cap ETFs are comprised of companies each with a market cap in the $2 to $10 billion range. All ETFs are designed to succeed and make money, so mid-cap ETFs are filled with midsized companies that are in the middle of their “growth curve,” so to speak – they’re high-performing, high-potential companies that may become the next blue-chip, so mid-cap ETFs balance risk and reward.
Small-cap ETFs are comprised of companies each with a market cap of “just” $300 million to $2 billion. Fund managers who design small-cap ETFs cast a wide net, aiming to scoop up “the next big thing.” As a result, these ETFs have higher growth potential than most ETFs, but also steeper downside if the smaller companies within end up folding.
International ETFs are, as the name so subtly hints, full of non-U.S. stocks and securities. There are country-specific ETFs, foreign industry ETFs (think non-U.S. automotive stocks), and even ETFs representing emerging markets like sub-Saharan Africa and Brazil.
Fixed income ETFs, aka bond ETFs, give you access to diverse bond investments. For the uninitiated, bonds are like loans you make to companies or governments that they pay back with interest. You can read more about bonds here, but the bottom line is this: fixed-income ETFs provide steady income in the form of dividends, so they’re a good choice if you want a safe investment that gives you a paycheck!

Read more: How To Invest In ETFs

Which type of ETF is right for you?

Well, it depends on both your goals and your risk tolerance.

If you can tolerate some risk in your portfolio, and want your ETF investment to pay off sooner than later (within five years), you may want to consider small-cap and mid-cap ETFs. They’re riskier, but have higher upside potential.

If you’re looking for a safer investment that will multiply your money over a longer horizon (5+ years), a large-cap ETF is probably a fit.

If you’d like your ETF investment to provide a trickle of cashback each month, fixed income ETFs are probably your best bet.

And finally, if you don’t mind doing a little research or believe strongly in the economic performance of a foreign market, you’ll be a fan of international ETFs.

Read more: How To Determine Your Investing Risk Tolerance

About our criteria

With hundreds of commission-free ETFs available, how did these become the winners?

To make this list, ETFs had to impress in all of the following categories:

Earnings potential. Naturally, the first thing looked at was the ETF’s performance over the past five years. A good sign of a healthy ETF is how quickly it bounced back in Q3 2020 after the market panic surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic. Springboarding back and surpassing Q1 levels are a sign of investor confidence, and helped solidify the ETF’s place on this list.
Expense ratio. Next, I looked at the ETF’s expense ratio. Your expense ratio is the percentage of your investment you pay to the fund manager for having shares of the ETF. Although measured in fractions of a percent, expense ratios make a difference – 0.80% of $10,000 is $80 and 0.04% is just $4, so ETFs with an expense ratio below 0.20% were favored.
Fund reputation. You’ll see a lot of repeated names on this list because funds like Schwab, BlackRock (iShares), and especially Vanguard have a proven track record of building well-crafted, reliable ETFs with low expense ratios. Fund reputation matters in the long run because big funds attract big money, which helps to generate higher returns for you!
Solid fundamentals. ETFs aren’t just random grab bags of stock and securities – each one is a carefully curated list, with selection criteria driven by both AI and human logic. There are some wacky and unique ETFs out there – such as Millennial ETFs and Space ETFs – and I’ll cover more of them in an upcoming piece. But this list isn’t for the experimental, exciting stuff – it’s for safe, dare I say boring, places to stash and multiply your savings.
Conscious investing. Finally, this was more of a small thing in the back of my mind, but I wanted each ETF on this list to score average or above average for “conscious capitalism.” No fossil fuels, no sin stocks (learn more about sin stocks here) – and not just because it’s not the way of the future, but because investments in conscious capitalism generally outperform “sinful” investments in the long term.

Commission-free ETFs solve a big problem for young investors

Commission-free ETFs aren’t just great because they’re cheap – they actually solve a pretty serious problem plaguing young ETF investors.

You see, ETFs have heftier commissions and trade fees than stocks because ETFs can be resource-intensive to create. Let’s say you’re a fund manager and you have an idea for an ETF. The process to get your ETF approved by the SEC isn’t unlike getting your new drug approved by the FDA; you have to research a ton, understand the risks, and propose your ETF to the government.

Once your ETF is approved and available, you probably want some additional compensation for your work beyond just capital gains from your ETF.

You don’t want to charge a high percentage trade fee, because big-ticket investors will be turned off. So, instead, you charge a $10 to $20 fee per trade of your ETF.

Big-ticket investors who drop $50,000 on a trade couldn’t care less about a $20 fee, since that represents just 0.04% of their investment. But if you’re a young investor, investing maybe $50 to $100 out of each monthly paycheck, a $20 per-trade fee is way too high – basically pricing us out of ETF investing. 🙁

Thankfully, many brokerages have realized that their per-trade fees are too high for young investors and have eliminated commissions on trades of certain ETFs. At first, funds like Vanguard and Fidelity only let you trade commission-free on their own platforms, but now, they’ve expanded their commission-free goodness to wide platforms like J. P. Morgan Self-Directed Investing.

And it’s not just the junk ETFs that get traded commission-free – in fact, it’s often quite the opposite. Firms like Vanguard and Fidelity will let you trade their most successful ETFs for free – presumably because they don’t really need the commission.

Disclosure – INVESTMENT AND INSURANCE PRODUCTS ARE: NOT A DEPOSIT • NOT FDIC INSURED • NO BANK GUARANTEE • MAY LOSE VALUE

Summary

If you’re looking for an investment vehicle falling somewhere between your boring retirement account and your exciting individual stock purchases, ETFs are an excellent choice. And now that the big funds are waiving commissions on their top-performing ETFs, there’s never been a better time to dive into the world of ETFs and inject some low- to mid-risk into your portfolio.

ETFs are also an excellent investment if you’re looking to multiply your money and cash out within 2 to 10 years. You can even leave your ETF investment until retirement, if you want, so it has plenty of time to multiply under compound interest.

Not all ETFs are made the same, however – and the SEC has approved some stinkers over the years, for sure. These ETFs, on the other hand, are universally considered top-ranked and well-supported within the investor community – and are a superb place to start.

Source: moneyunder30.com

Apache is functioning normally

June 5, 2023 by Brett Tams

The all-inclusive resort space can be a little confusing, as the brands aren’t always as well known as, say, a Hyatt Regency or Park Hyatt.

We’re here to change that with this collection of our favorite Hyatt all-inclusive resorts.

The company’s all-inclusive resort footprint grew exponentially in recent years thanks to a $2.7 billion acquisition of Apple Leisure Group, the owner of brands like Secrets and Dreams. However, Hyatt also has all-inclusive resort options from before this takeover, with offerings like the Alila Ventana Big Sur, the Ziva and Zilara brands and even Park Hyatt’s posh outpost in the Maldives.

Ready to pack your bags? We sure are.

Alila Ventana Big Sur

Big Sur, California, USA

ALILA VENTANA BIG SUR/FACEBOOK

Best for: Romantic weekends away or disconnecting in nature while surrounded by world-class amenities.

Why stay here: Alila Ventana Big Sur is arguably one of the best Hyatt properties in North America, perhaps even the world, thanks to its one-of-a-kind location in California’s coastal redwood groves and the value you can get from your Hyatt points.

Best way to book: Book through our partner Skylark for elitelike perks and on-property credits, or book using World of Hyatt points for one of the best redemptions in the program. It’s also available through American Express’ Fine Hotels + Resorts and Chase’s Luxury Hotel & Resort Collection, where you can get valuable perks like credits to use on the property, room upgrades and late checkout, depending on the program.

Consider Alila Ventana Big Sur the grande dame of Hyatt resorts (and points redemptions) in the U.S.

Perched off the Pacific Coast Highway about a half-hour south of San Francisco, the West Coast resort is the pinnacle of all-inclusive luxury travel with a dose of seclusion. Alila Ventana Big Sur only features 59 guest rooms and suites, as well as 15 tented cabins spread out across 150 acres.

Travelers may not typically associate Hyatt’s Alila brand with “all-inclusive” like you would with Zilara or Secrets. However, the California resort includes all meals and snacks with a nightly room rate. Alcoholic beverages are sold separately.

The vibe is glitzy glamping, with a lot of wood paneling and working fireplaces in guest rooms and suites. Leather chairs and earth tones complement the California redwood forest outside.

Head to The Sur House, Alila Ventana Big Sur’s main restaurant, for breakfast and dinner with a Pacific Ocean view and locally sourced ingredients. Lunch can be delivered poolside to your chaise lounge. Spa Alila is a must-splurge, with alfresco treatments offered from outdoor cabanas — clarify and cleanse with an 80-minute facial or unwind in a copper soaking tub with an impeccable view of the redwoods beyond. The great outdoors were never so decadent.

Rates start at $1,969 or 35,000 World of Hyatt points per night.

Miraval Berkshires

Lenox, Massachusetts, USA

MIRAVAL BERKSHIRES/MIRAVAL

Best for: Couples who simply need to unwind.

Why stay here: This luxury wellness retreat is the place to trade the fast pace of the modern world for a tranquil retreat … and use Hyatt points to do it.

Best way to book: Book through our partner Skylark for elitelike perks and on-property credits or book directly with Hyatt to earn or redeem points. Go through Amex Fine Hotels + Resorts for extra perks like guaranteed late checkout and a $100 property credit.

This luxe wellness retreat exudes a contemporary atmosphere in Massachusetts’ otherwise rustic, woodsy Berkshires region. Miraval Berkshires is a magnet for city dwellers (it’s driveable from New York City and Boston) looking for a little R&R — but perhaps without all the dietary (and drinking) limitations of other wellness retreats in the area. Keep in mind: While alcohol is served at Miraval, it is not included in your nightly rate like all other food and drinks.

Sleek, clean and bright designs dominate throughout the resort, including the modern Carriage House suites and Cottages. However, the 10 recently renovated rooms and suites found in the Wyndhurst Mansion are a worthy splurge. Named for legendary artists and prominent families of the Gilded Age, suites include the Vanderbilt Suite (the largest, as you might expect) and the cozier Wharton and Hawthorne rooms — all include modern fixtures and furnishings and upgraded bathrooms. Larger rooms and suites include decorative fireplaces, which are great for unwinding and reflecting following a day of treatments.

Speaking of treatments, the Life in Balance Spa at Miraval Berkshires is a major draw and, at 29,000 square feet, a focal point of the entire resort. We’re fans of the 80-minute Manuka Honey Quench body treatment to give the skin some ultraluxurious moisturization and glow.

TPG loved the food and beverage offerings at Miraval when we checked in. 1894 Restaurant, named for the year Wyndhurst Mansion wrapped construction, is the resort’s fine dining option serving a four-course tasting menu that features scrumptious offerings like Maine lobster risotto and Hudson Valley duck.

Rates start at $804 or 40,000 World of Hyatt points per night.

Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos

San Jose del Cabo, Baja California Sur, Mexico

HYATT ZIVA LOS CABOS/FACEBOOK

Best for: Families wanting an upscale and memorable experience where everything is taken care of for you.

Why stay here: Hyatt’s Ziva brand is one of the best all-inclusive experiences money (or points) can buy.

Best way to book: Book directly with Hyatt to earn or redeem World of Hyatt points.

Fun in the sun is easy to access at Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos, on the outskirts of San Jose del Cabo but only a 20-minute drive from Los Cabos International Airport (SJD) in Mexico.

While Ziva is the family-friendly option of Hyatt’s Ziva and Zilara all-inclusive brand siblings, TPG found the property to have plenty of options for visitors of all ages (including those who are looking for a little more seclusion away from children).

Guest rooms and suites fit the Baja California feel with terracotta tiles, light decor and dark wood accents. Ocean views are a must, and the Master Suite tier of rooms affords extra space as well as Hyatt club-level amenities.

On the food front, TPG recommends the poolside bars, which serve up delicious fish tacos and ceviche with service that is both friendly and fast. Bon Vivant, the resort’s French restaurant, is another winner with salad nicoise and duck breast — and it’s worth splurging on the wine list that isn’t part of the all-inclusive offering.

Rates start at $320 or 25,000 World of Hyatt points per night.

Hyatt Ziva Cancun

Cancun, Mexico

HYATT ZIVA CANCUN/FACEBOOK

Best for: Teens with a sweet tooth.

Why stay here: The resort has a teens club with virtual reality experiences and an array of water sports, plus a candy room that’s part of the all-inclusive rates.

Best way to book: Book directly with World of Hyatt.

Family-friendly Cancun might not be as stunning as Hyatt Ziva Cancun, an all-inclusive resort with spectacular views and sprawling beaches in the heart of Cancun. Don’t miss the expansive pool deck with chaise lounges, swim-up bars and hot tubs.

TPG favors rooms in the Ziva’s 17-floor Club Tower, which includes the hotel’s guest rooms and suites with Hyatt Ziva Club access. Ziva Club access includes things like private check-in and checkout and personalized concierge services. While the resort is family-friendly, couples will likely want to look into a stay in the adults-only Turquoize Tower. The Turquoize building includes rooms and suites with extras like private infinity pools or hot tubs.

The dining lineup is extensive, to put it mildly. A few of our favorites include El Mercado, Hyatt Ziva Cancun’s all-day buffet, and Pasteles, a dessert parlor to satisfy the sweetest of sweet teeth. Food carts even regularly circle the pool, so if you leave here hungry, it’s your own fault. The alcohol selection is also surprisingly highbrow for an all-inclusive resort and features spirits like Johnnie Walker Black whisky, Belvedere vodka and Don Julio tequila.

Rates start at $460 or 35,000 World of Hyatt points per night.

Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall

Montego Bay, Jamaica

HYATT ZILARA ROSE HALL/PARK HYATT

Best for: Couples looking for a traditional all-inclusive experience where they can redeem points.

Why stay here: Stay here if you’re craving a classic sun, sea and sand getaway with a warm Jamaican welcome and access to an array of amenities.

Best way to book: Book the Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall directly on Hyatt’s website to earn or redeem World of Hyatt points and take advantage of elite status benefits.

Hyatt made a major push into all-inclusive resorts in recent years, but one of TPG’s favorites has been around since the more recent expansion. Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall manages to feel secluded yet is mere minutes from Montego Bay’s Sangster International Airport (MBJ).

This adults-only resort features attentive service, a slew of amenities and a litany of dining options that makes this one of TPG’s favorite all-inclusive resorts. Guest rooms and suites offer airy, light environs perfect for a seaside vacation — we particularly love the swim-up suites. The Grand Butler Suite with personalized butler service is an ideal splurge for those looking for particularly attentive care.

On the activity front, spend time ranging from a plunge in the resort’s three-level pool to getting adventurous with surfing on Montego Bay. Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall’s spa features treatment rooms and a beachside cabana to indulge in a massage on the waterfront. Who doesn’t love getting rid of knots with crashing waves serenading you?

Dining options can satisfy a wide variety of taste buds. The resort’s upscale French restaurant, Petit Pariz, is ideal for a romantic date night, while Jamaican RootZ by HoriZons is great for all-day alfresco dining with a waterfront view.

Rates start at $492 or 25,000 World of Hyatt points per night.

Zoëtry Paraiso de la Bonita Riviera Maya

Riviera Maya, Mexico

ZOETRY PARAISO DE LA BONITA RIVI

Best for: Travelers wanting the ease of an all-inclusive resort without too much of a party scene.

Why stay here: Splurge on an oceanfront Butler Suite for a tailor-made experience with gorgeous views steps from the sand.

Best way to book: Book directly with Hyatt to earn or redeem World of Hyatt points and enjoy any elite benefits.

If you’re a little confused by the various all-inclusive brands under the Hyatt umbrella these days, have no fear. Zoetry is an all-inclusive brand targeting “holistic experiences” with “exceptional service.” Basically, you will almost certainly leave feeling pampered and more in tune with your wellness-oriented self.

Zoetry Paraiso de la Bonita Riviera Maya is one of our favorite ways to do just that. The Riviera Maya resort features a remarkable stretch of beach and attentive service, luxe accommodations and dining options galore. Tranquility is the name of the game here: less bottomless-well vodka and disco and more top-shelf liquor and soothing guitar music to ocean sounds.

Rooms and suites are sprawling. The resort’s smallest room is 800 square feet (essentially, the size of a two-bedroom apartment). Oceanfront views are a mainstay, as well as indoor-outdoor layouts, private balconies and decor featuring local art.

On the dining front, be sure to indulge in the fresh grilled seafood with waterfront views at El Chiringuito or the top-rated international cuisine at La Canoa, which is also known for its wine list (available at an added cost beyond the all-inclusive rate).

Of course, the holistic brand standard that Zoetry is known for, the Thalasso Center & Spa, is the draw here. Signature offerings include a Temazcal ancestral treatment to cleanse mind, body and soul, and a simpler Mayan massage encompassing cup treatment and reflexology.

Rates start at $396 or 25,000 World of Hyatt points per night.

Secrets Riviera Cancun Resort & Spa

Cancun, Mexico

SECRETS RIVIERA CANCUN RESORT & SPA

Best for: A stylish getaway a little removed from the action of Cancun.

Why stay here: Each of the resort’s luxurious rooms comes with a private terrace or patio with either a hot tub or swim-up pool.

Best way to book: Book directly with Hyatt to earn or redeem World of Hyatt points and enjoy any elite benefits.

Sure, the white sandy beaches and swim-up bars are love at first sight for a place like Secrets Riviera Cancun Resort & Spa. But shouldn’t your all-inclusive resort offer so much more? Secrets, an adults-only all-inclusive resort brand, certainly delivers in Cancun.

This all-suite resort manages to feel a little more secluded and cozy than you’d expect from an all-inclusive resort. Secrets Riviera Cancun guest rooms include private balconies and terraces with either hot tubs or swim-out access.

Activities abound, with kayaking, parasailing, windsurfing and snorkeling as just a few select offerings on the outdoor lineup. Be sure to refuel at the wide array of restaurant offerings, including Picante, the resort’s gourmet Mexican restaurant, and Coquette, an a la carte French restaurant.

Rates start at $485 or 25,000 World of Hyatt points per night.

Breathless Punta Cana

Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

BREATHLESS PUNTA CANA/FACEBOOK

Best for: Adults who want to be lazy in the sun then turn it up with live music and DJs.

Why stay here: At Breathless you get the perfect mix of a relaxing vacation with high-energy social elements.

Best way to book: Book directly with Hyatt to earn and redeem points.

All-inclusive resorts in the Dominican Republic might conjure images of the loud spring break crowd, but that’s not exactly the vibe at Breathless Punta Cana Resort & Spa.

The sprawling property is a favorite for its expansive suites and Xhale Club, a VIP offering with more personalized service for those staying in this category of suites. All suites feature balconies with private hot tubs, while some feature swim-up pool access from their terraces.

The restaurant lineup is extensive, with 11 restaurants and eight bars to indulge in. The Barefoot Grill serves beachside staples like burgers and grilled fish under the sun, while the Mediterranean-influenced Kibbeh restaurant is perfect for date night.

Carve out some me-time at the Relax Spa by Pevonia — the Sun Lover’s Facial is a must after a busy day lounging by the pool.

Rates start at $247 or 17,000 World of Hyatt points per night.

Dreams Dominicus La Romana

Dominican Republic

DREAMS DOMINICUS LA ROMANA/FACEBOOK

Best for: Those looking for an elevated all-inclusive getaway — you won’t find any wristband requirements here.

Why stay here: Beautiful beaches and spacious rooms and suites (all with private balconies and some with private pools) will lead to true R&R during your stay.

Best way to book: Book directly with Hyatt to earn or redeem World of Hyatt points and enjoy any elite benefits.

Dreams is the more family-oriented of the all-inclusive brands Hyatt acquired amid the Apple Leisure Group takeover. Dreams Dominicus La Romana is a traveler favorite thanks to its gorgeous beach location and plenty of poolside and waterfront chaise lounges. (We aren’t saying you won’t compete to nab a chair each day, but at least there are plenty from which to pick.)

When we say there’s something for everyone here, we mean it: Rooms and suites range from spacious garden-view rooms with private balconies, canopy beds and elegant bathrooms to expansive three-bedroom suites geared toward families. There are also swim-up suites and even a honeymoon suite with a private hot tub and hammock.

Both buffets win out at Dreams: There are lively cooking displays at World Cafe, and the club level-only Flying Fish buffet is a more exclusive all-you-can-eat feast. Dance the night away at Desires, the resort’s lounge and nightclub.

Rates start at $343 or 17,000 World of Hyatt points per night.

Sunscape Curacao Resort, Spa & Casino

Willemstad, Curacao

SUNSCAPE CURACAO RESORT SPA & CASINO

Best for: Families looking for a variety of activities for all ages.

Why stay here: Plenty of pools, a calm beach and a plethora of activities (including an indulgent spa) make Sunscape a choose-your-own adventure kind of resort.

Best way to book: Book directly with Hyatt to earn or redeem World of Hyatt points and enjoy any elite benefits.

Sunscape Curacao Resort, Spa & Casino is a swimmers delight thanks to its beach with protected waters for swimming and snorkeling. That’s only the beginning of the fun at this kid-friendly, all-inclusive resort. Paddleboarding and diving with the family or trying your hand with Lady Luck at the on-site casino are all part of a normal day here.

Guest rooms and suites are affordable and come with a garden view or a Caribbean Sea view (we prefer the latter). Consider upgrading to the resort’s Sun Club for nicer suites, lounge access and more personalized service.

Bluewater Grill, the resort’s international restaurant, is an ideal spot for dinner with views of the sea. Head to Oceana Restaurant for more Curacao flavors with your seafood.

Unwind with a treatment at the Sunscape Spa by Pevonia, which offers aromatherapeutic salt scrubs and a variety of massage options amid a wide-ranging treatment menu.

Rates start at $365 or 17,000 World of Hyatt points per night.

Dreams Onyx Resort and Spa

Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

DREAMS ONYX RESORT & SPA/FACEBOOK

Best for: Families craving fun in the sun and variety in pools (there are five to pick from).

Why stay here: Make it a family reunion and book the two-bedroom family suite, which can sleep up to 10 people.

Best way to book: Book directly with Hyatt to earn or redeem World of Hyatt points and enjoy any elite benefits.

Pool lovers, rejoice. Dreams Onyx Resort & Spa has plenty of options for you — five pools, to be exact.

There are two infinity pools and even a saltwater kids pool to keep the little ones busy. Don’t miss out on the resort’s expansive beach, an ideal place to read a book on the chaise lounge under a thatched umbrella — who doesn’t love finishing a juicy chapter amid a sea breeze?

The resort has a wide range of room and suite options, but all accommodations feature a hot tub on a private terrace or balcony and complimentary minibar as part of the all-inclusive rate. Consider a splurge to a nicer pool or ocean-view junior suite, or go the extra mile with an upgrade to the Preferred Club. This level of suites includes a personal concierge, lounge access and Preferred Club-only pools, bars and restaurants.

Varied activities are at guests’ fingertips here, including a free introductory scuba lesson, kids and teens clubs and several restaurants. Mercure is a delicious French brasserie. SandBar is our favorite spot for a margarita on the beach.

Rates start at $289 or 17,000 World of Hyatt points per night.

Miraval Arizona

Tucson, Arizona, USA

MIRAVAL ARIZONA/JAMES BAIGRIE/FACEBOOK

Best for: Health-conscious travelers looking for a luxurious desert-meets-mountains retreat.

Why stay here: A nonstop calendar of classes to invigorate the mind and body, plus top-notch amenities and a fantastic World of Hyatt points redemption value make this property an excellent option for adults.

Best way to book: Book through our partner Skylark to earn World of Hyatt points while enjoying elitelike benefits such as upgrades based on availability and on-property credits.

Go west, young man — and indulge in one luxurious spa.

Miraval Arizona brings luxe wellness accommodations to the desert and does it with flying colors. This TPG favorite will have you feeling like a celebrity in no time from all the scrumptious dining, pampering, treatments and activities.

Guest rooms and suites deliver Wild West chic with a clean design and fluffy beds. (Go ahead, jump on it — we won’t tell.) Larger rooms include private patios or outdoor showers and fire pits. Splurge more and enjoy suites with crackling fireplaces and views of the Santa Catalina Mountains. The ultimate indulgence is Miraval’s seven villas (ideal for families or larger groups) and retreats for better indoor-outdoor flow (dine under the stars or enjoy an indoor-to-outdoor shower — why choose?).

Miraval Arizona’s Life in Balance Spa is a draw for its decadent treatments, like a 50-minute Cara Vida facial (a resort exclusive) that features cold-pressed chia seeds and local Arizona honey. Check out the Cactus Flower Restaurant, the resort’s main dining spot, for specials like squash curry and a vegan chorizo tostada. For carnivores, the Coyote Moon Burger is also scrumptious.

Rates start at $874 or 40,000 World of Hyatt points per night.

Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana

Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

HYATT ZILARIA CAP CANA/HYATT

Best for: Travelers who want plenty of action, tropical vibes and a dose of romance.

Why stay here: An accessible Caribbean retreat, this property is an especially good value if you have World of Hyatt points to redeem.

Best way to book: Book the Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana directly on Hyatt’s website to earn or redeem points and take advantage of elite benefits.

Travelers craving an adults-only, all-inclusive resort experience won’t be disappointed in the least with a stay at Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana, as TPG discovered on a recent trip to the Dominican Republic.

We found it to be a little more highbrow than the typical all-inclusive experience, and we’re not complaining. The contemporary design, massive pools and sprawling beach are all selling points. Who doesn’t love to sip a morning mimosa amid well-manicured greenery and stone walkways heading to the turquoise sea? Luxury and all-inclusive aren’t mutually exclusive.

Rooms and suites are expansive, bright and (whether you like it or not) feature open rainfall showers. Swim-up and oceanfront suites add a little more connected action to your fun-in-the-sun getaway while the largest Presidential and Club Ocean View Master suites include huge balconies with waterfront views and entertaining spaces. Don’t forget the free minibar with snacks and sips like Presidente beers and Pringles.

On the restaurant front, Shutters Beachside serves breakfast (grab your morning egg frittata and crabcake and get a head start on claiming your chaise lounge for the day). Brando’s is the spot for an over-the-top dinner. Tahitian cru ceviche and grilled shrimp in a coconut and vanilla sauce received top marks after our dinner.

Poolside lounging might be the easiest way to spend time at Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana, but you can check out other activities like aqua-cycling and trying out Canapolis Water Park at the neighboring, family-friendly Hyatt Ziva property (accessible to all Zilara guests). A more relaxing endeavor comes at the Larimar Spa, featuring marquee treatments like a 90-minute body wrap that uses Dominican noni fruit.

Rates start at $444 or 35,000 World of Hyatt points per night.

Secrets Moxche Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen, Mexico

SECRETS MOXCHE PLAYA DEL CARMEN/FACEBOOK

Best for: Active couples and night owls who prefer to look beyond their hotel for entertainment.

Why stay here: Comfortable suites, plentiful amenities and all the energy of Playa del Carmen a short drive away.

Best way to book: Redeem or accrue points by booking directly with Hyatt.

Consider Secrets Moxche Playa del Carmen Hyatt’s latest show pony for all-inclusive resorts. The company CEO name-checked it in a recent earnings call and even hosted a companywide investor event there this spring to show off the recently opened resort — including the ultraluxury Secrets Impression Moxche resort-within-a-resort.

Secrets Moxche is known for its luxurious atmosphere, natural decor and impressive oceanfront views. The Secrets Impression resort within the overall Secrets property indulges guests with fresh seafood served beachside and complimentary poolside beds (complete with a curtain for when you need privacy … either from the sun or other guests).

The main resort features large guest rooms and suites with private terraces and balconies, contemporary furniture, and indoor-outdoor layouts fit for travelers looking to sunbathe or read inside to the tune of crashing waves outdoors.

On the pool front, Secrets offers a variety of options, like a lagoon pool complete with a sandy beach and The Cove beach bar. Other options include more private cenote-style pools and the main swimming area, complete with a swim-up bar you might expect from an all-inclusive resort.

Dining ranges from the Market Cafe buffet or room service to start the day to Suki, the resort’s sushi and teppanyaki restaurant.

Rates start at $538 or 35,000 World of Hyatt points per night.

Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa

North Huvadhoo, Maldives

PARK HYATT MALDIVES HADAHAA

Best for: The ultraluxury traveler who requires total seclusion and pristine beaches.

Why stay here: The Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa’s three-bedroom Overwater Reef Residence is a must-book for travelers seeking a palatial stay as close to the water as possible.

Best way to book: Book through our partner Skylark to enjoy elitelike benefits and on-property credits.

The Maldives conjures images of a bucket list trip, but the Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa is perhaps one of the most bucket list-iest of bucket list resorts on the island nation.

The newest and biggest splurge at the resort is the recently added three-bedroom Overwater Reef Residence, which spans nearly 10,000 square feet and includes views of the Indian Ocean and a private infinity pool. Your private chef and, yes, the resort’s Vidhun Spa will come to you for any treatments you might desire (a massage feels all the more indulgent from your private terrace, no?).

Other accommodations vary from overwater bungalows to more woodsy offerings on the Park Hyatt’s island. It goes without saying: The pool area and beach both provide ample opportunities to make the Instagram and TikTok followers jealous, TPG noted when we checked in.

While Park Hyatt isn’t traditionally a Hyatt brand associated with the all-inclusive resort sector, we’re including it here because the resort does offer an all-inclusive package that includes all meals and select alcoholic beverages.

All-inclusive rates start at $1,290 per night.

Miraval Austin

Austin, Texas, USA

SUMMER HULL/THE POINTS GUY

Best for: An ultraluxurious tune-up for the mind, body and soul in the heart of Texas.

Why stay here: When you want to do a little self-care, it’s always best to let the pampering Miraval team take care of everything else for the duration of your stay.

Best way to book: Book through our partner Skylark to enjoy elitelike benefits and on-property credits; or reserve through American Express Fine Hotels + Resorts for value-added benefits like upgrades and late checkout based on availability, plus on-property statement credits.

Head to the Texas Hill Country for a little R&R with a side of luxury at Miraval Austin.

The Hyatt resort brand, known for all things wellness, beckons travelers with its stunning property with views of Lake Travis and the surrounding Texas hills. Tranquility is the name of the game here, TPG discovered when we checked in. From meditation channels on the guest room televisions to a Himalayan singing bowl and Miraval Zen-branded amenities, the odds are probably low that you’ll leave here stressed.

Miraval Austin is popular, so book treatments and fitness classes well ahead of check-in, as those can fill up quickly and in advance. Can’t make it into the stress solutions class? Fear not. There are plenty of other offerings like archery, cooking classes and “Tex Zen” yoga. Get it? Whoever said you couldn’t be funny and health-conscious is sorely mistaken.

The Miraval Life in Balance Spa is a major draw for guests looking to indulge in treatments ranging from 100-minute body renewal rituals (complete with ginger grass and bamboo scrubs and cherry-blossom rice buffing) to an 80-minute Moroccan Coffee Blossom pedicure.

Gourmet lovers will be ready to book their next stay after a visit to Hilltop Crossings, the resort’s main restaurant featuring a mix of local ingredients and wellness-geared dishes — from sirloin raised at Texas’ own 44 Farms to hempseed meatballs.

After a busy day of activities, treatments and treats, head back to your room and soak all the Texas Hill Country glory in from the privacy of your own balcony. This is a rejuvenating resort at its finest.

Rates start at $709 or 40,000 World of Hyatt points per night.

Source: thepointsguy.com

Apache is functioning normally

June 5, 2023 by Brett Tams

California-based lender loanDepot was in the red again in the first quarter of 2023. However, margins and revenues improved in the period, according to documents filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on Tuesday.

The lender recorded a loss of $60.2 million in non-GAAP adjusted net income from January to March, compared to a negative $110.7 million in the previous quarter. The GAAP net loss in the first quarter was $91.7 million.

It was loanDepot’s fourth consecutive quarterly loss and comes on the heels of a resolution to protracted infighting between founder and chairman Anthony Hsieh and the board of directors.

“The first quarter of this year remained challenging for the housing market as virtually all participants grappled with the impacts of ongoing volatility in mortgage interest rates, persistent cost inflation and the lack of available homes for sale,” Frank Martell, loanDepot’s president and CEO, said in a statement.

“Profitable revenue growth and a reset of our cost structure were the key drivers behind the substantial narrowing operating losses quarter over quarter,” Martell told analysts.

Total revenues increased to $207.9 million in the first quarter, up from $169.6 million in the previous quarter, “primarily driven by higher pull through weighted lock volume and servicing fee income,” the company told investors. Total expenses dropped to $314.4 million in Q1 2023, down from $343.7 million in Q4 2022.

Loan origination volume came in at $4.9 billion in the first quarter, down from $6.3 billion in the fourth quarter of 2022. Purchase loans comprised 71% of the total. Company executives project the second quarter volume to be anywhere between $4.5 billion and $6.5 billion.

“Although the affordability and availability of new and existing home sales remain challenging for the industry overall, we expect to continue to benefit from seasonally higher revenues and our ongoing cost reduction program,” Martell said. “Assuming the expected benefits of continuing seasonal volume increases and cost productivity, we expect to deliver improving financial results over the course of the second and third quarters of 2023.”

loanDepot has started to display margin improvement, but they remain tight. These improvements followed major cost-cutting initiatives that reduced company headcount to roughly 4,800 from 10,000 at the end of the first quarter 2022.

The gain-on-sale margin came in at 2.26% in the first quarter, better than the 2.21% registered in the previous quarter.

According to Patrick Flanagan, loanDepot’s CFO, the higher gain-on-sale margin was primarily “due to a reduction in our repurchase provision,” as repurchase activity and discounts decreased substantially. Executives expect margins will be between 2.40% and 2.80% in the second quarter.

Flanagan told analysts that expenses during the second quarter may increase, reflecting seasonally higher loan origination volume. However, higher production and a further reduction in controllable expenses will help the company to narrow losses in the second quarter.

According to Martell, loanDepot is “well positioned with the originators that we have today to manage” higher volumes.

Regarding its servicing portfolio, the unpaid principal balance increased to $141.6 billion as of March 31, 2023, from $141.1 billion as of December 31, 2022. Servicing fee income rose to $118.9 million in Q1 2023 from $107.2 million in the previous quarter.

loanDepot still has money to throw at problems. The lender said it had $798.1 million in cash balance at the end of March, down 7.6% from the fourth quarter.

Source: housingwire.com

Apache is functioning normally

June 5, 2023 by Brett Tams

Buying a house ranks among the biggest financial decisions of a lifetime. So when making an offer, it helps to have an escape hatch if something goes wrong. That hatch is called a real estate contingency.

What is a real estate contingency?

Typically included in the contract, contingencies aim to protect buyers and sellers should issues emerge in the period between accepting an offer and closing the sale.

“The transaction is typically 30- to 60- day process—it isn’t like walking into a store and buying an iPhone,” says Anurag Mehrotra, an assistant professor of finance at San Diego State University.

With properly worded contingencies, buyers can rescind their offer if, for example, they’re unable to get a home loan or an inspector flags a leaky roof. In short, they can walk away from the deal without losing their “earnest money,” the security deposit put down when the offer was made.

When the real-estate market is cooling, as it has been in many parts of the country over the past year, buyers are increasingly able to ask for contingencies and still remain competitive if there are other offers.

In theory, potential buyers can ask sellers for almost anything imaginable—like assurances that the house has “good vibes.” But in reality, there are five contingency clauses most commonly found in real estate contracts.

Contingencies to consider

Inspection contingency

Once an offer has been accepted, there is typically a 30-day period for due diligence, Mehrotra explains. A buyer can hire a third-party inspector or engineer to assess things such as the home’s foundation and structure, electrical wiring and plumbing, the heating/cooling system and kitchen appliances.

Many inspection reports reveal minor or cosmetic defects that are no cause for alarm, a ding on the refrigerator door, for instance. But when the report unearths major issues, an inspection contingency allows the buyer to tell the homeowner to rectify them or reduce the purchase price.

“This is a huge one,” Mehrotra says. “It helps with unforeseen problems.”

Indeed, Realtor.com found that the number of buyers asking for repairs after an inspection more than doubled between August 2021 and August 2022, with the majority of sellers saying the cash value of repairs was in the $10,000-or-less range.

(News Corp, parent of The Wall Street Journal, operates Realtor.com.)

Appraisal contingency

Before it provides a mortgage, the lender will have the home appraised to ensure that its value meets or exceeds its purchase price. If the property’s valuation comes in low, buyers with an appraisal contingency are able to quash the transaction without losing their security deposit. Without that contingency, buyers would typically be on the hook to pay the difference upfront.

When the inventory of available homes is low but the demand from buyers is high, purchase prices are more likely to exceed appraised values. That dynamic was at play after the onset of the pandemic, when throngs of buyers sought larger homes. In January 2020, just 7% of home sales had a contract price above the appraised value, an analysis by real-estate data provider CoreLogic found. By May 2021, the frequency increased to 19% of transactions.

Since then, however, the demand for homes has eased—partly because rising interest rates have made mortgage payments less affordable. When sales are slower, bidding wars that jack up prices are less likely, which in turn helps close gaps between a home’s purchase price and its appraised value.

Mortgage contingency

When buying a house, most people can’t exactly whip out their checkbooks. According to the National Association of Realtors, 78% of recent home buyers obtained financing to complete their purchase. A mortgage or financing contingency gives buyers some extra time to shop for the best lender and interest rate.

That time is especially essential today. In the early months of 2023, average mortgage-interest rates bounced around 6.5%—well above the 2021 lows of less than 3%. In general, higher interest rates lead to larger house payments, so some borrowers may have more difficulty qualifying for a mortgage. That’s because a key component of the lender’s decision is the borrower’s debt-to-income ratio, a measure of the applicant’s total monthly debt payments in relation to the total monthly earnings.

It’s helpful when potential borrowers are preapproved for a mortgage before house hunting begins, explains Vanessa Famulener, president of HomeLight Homes, a real estate technology company. That may be enough to assure sellers that the deal will go through even with a financing contingency in the contract.

Better yet is conditional approval from a lender before the home search begins, Famulener adds. With preapproval, the lender mainly looks at the borrower’s credit score, credit history, income and assets. With conditional approval, the underwriter has received and reviewed most or all of the documentation required to get a loan up to a certain amount. Assuming nothing changes—no job losses or change in marital status, for example—borrowers with conditional approval can feel confident about their creditworthiness, which may eliminate the need for a financing contingency entirely, Famulener says.

Home-sale contingency

Over 56% of buyers are also selling a home, Famulener notes. And for most of them, selling is necessary before buying. First, they likely need the equity in their existing home to qualify for financing on their new home. And second, they can’t afford to make two mortgage payments every month. For both of these reasons, home-sale contingencies are commonly used in tight markets, Famulener says.

When including the home-sale contingency, it is important to include a time limit. Typically, the clause gives buyers 30 to 90 days after the contract is signed to sell their home. Without a time frame, buyers and sellers are left in limbo.

Facing a home-sale time crunch, some buyers turn to companies that pay cash for their current home. Terms vary widely among these companies, with some requiring homeowners to pay service fees, broker commissions, taxes and/or closing costs.

Title contingency

Before a home sale closes, a title search is performed to ensure there are no issues over ownership, such as liens against the property for things such as unpaid taxes, outstanding loans or overdue contractor fees.

A title contingency allows the buyer to back out of the deal if the title search flags ownership concerns. However, this contingency is less common because most purchase agreements already include a clause that voids the sale if title issues emerge, Famulener says.

Even if they waive a title contingency, buyers are typically required to purchase title insurance. This policy covers them—and their lender—if ownership issues arise down the road, such as an undisclosed heir. The premium is generally a one-time fee paid to the title company at closing.

Will contingencies hurt my chances in a bidding war?

While contingencies of all types give buyers some wiggle room when making an offer, contingencies can also hurt your chances of getting the house of your dreams.

In Milwaukee, first-time home buyers Drew and Lyn Buus, both 26, made offers on seven homes between March and mid-May—losing out each time to other buyers, most likely because of contingencies.

In one instance, the couple bid $303,000 for a three-bedroom, 1½ -bathroom house in Wauwatosa, Wis., that was listed for $273,000. They included inspection and appraisal contingencies, but also said they would cover up to $5,000 if there was an appraisal gap and up to $5,000 if the inspection showed necessary repairs.

After just one day on the market, the house had 33 offers, eventually selling for $293,000. “We offered more and it sold for less,” Buus says. “We never heard back [from the sellers], but we assume contingencies were waived” in the winning bid.

For now, he and his wife—and their dog Bailey—are staying put in a house they’re renting in Milwaukee’s Bay View neighborhood. “I feel strongly that you shouldn’t waive the inspection and appraisal contingencies,” says Buus, a supply-chain specialist for a medical manufacturer.

“It’s one of the largest financial decisions you’re going to make,” he says. “If something goes wrong, you’re on the hook.”

More on real estate

The advice, recommendations or rankings expressed in this article are those of the Buy Side from WSJ editorial team, and have not been reviewed or endorsed by our commercial partners.

Source: wsj.com

Apache is functioning normally

June 5, 2023 by Brett Tams

IPO stocks are shares of companies that have recently, or are about to, go public. When a company IPOs, its stock becomes available to most investors for the first time, which can create a frenzied feel in the market.

Deciding whether to buy IPOs is a bit more complicated. IPOs require investors to research a company’s financial history and understand how they might grow their business in the future. There’s a lot to consider, and it’s important to do some homework before investing in IPO stocks.

Private vs Public Companies

An initial public offering, or IPO, is the first time that shares of a company are offered for sale to the public. Once an IPO occurs, company stock is listed on a stock exchange and is available for pretty much anyone to buy.

Before the IPO, the company is considered to be private. Private companies may still have shareholders, but it’s often a relatively small circle that may include founders, early employees, or even private investors such as venture capitalists.

Outsiders can invest in a company while it’s private, but doing so can be more cumbersome and involve bigger checks or investment vehicles like private equity or mutual funds. For the most part, companies that choose to remain private are small or medium-sized companies, though there are some large companies that have remained in private hands.

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Why Do Companies IPO?

Two benefits that private companies enjoy is getting to choose who invests in them and not having to report financial results to a large pool of investors. Once a company goes public, it falls under the regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), which requires quarterly earnings reports.

However, companies may hit a ceiling when it comes to how much private capital they can raise, and an IPO can give them access to large sums that can help them continue growing.

If demand increases for shares, companies can issue more shares in a secondary offering. These can occur when a large stakeholder in the company sells their shares, which doesn’t dilute the existing pool of stocks available on the market. Or a company can create all new shares, which raises the overall number available and can result in a drop in share price.

IPOs also often occur with much fanfare, which can help generate publicity for the business. Companies whose stocks are listed on the New York Stock Exchange or Nasdaq may celebrate in a ceremonial bell ringing that signals the opening of stock trading on the day of their IPO, generating press coverage.

IPO Price vs Opening Price

The IPO price is the price at which shares of a company are set before they are sold on a stock exchange. As soon as markets open and the stock is actively traded, that price begins to go up or down depending on consumer demand. This is the opening price, and it can change quickly.

Not everyone has the ability to buy shares at the IPO price. When a company wants to go public, they typically hire an underwriter — an investment bank — that structures the IPO and drums up interest among investors. The underwriter acquires shares of the company and sets a price for them based on how much money the company wants to raise and how much demand they think there is for the stock.

The underwriter will likely offer IPO shares to its institutional clients, and it may reserve some for other people close to the company. The company wants these initial shareholders to remain invested for the long-term and tries to avoid allocating to those who may want to sell right after a first-day pop in the share price.

That’s why most regular investors don’t have access to shares at the IPO price unless they have an in with the company or its underwriter. This is especially true for the largest, most high profile IPOs.

Investment banks go through this relatively complicated process in part to help them avoid some of the risks associated with a company going public for the first time. The bank will try to make sure that the IPO is oversubscribed, when there are more buyers lined up for the stock at the IPO price than there are actual shares. The bank is trying to drive up demand, and subsequently the offering price of the stock.

Alternative IPO Routes

Companies don’t necessarily have to take this route to have an IPO. In recent years, alternatives to the traditional IPO have become more popular.

For example, when Spotify went public in 2018, it skipped the underwriting process, instead going through a “direct listing” – when it offered shares at the same time that it listed them on the stock exchange. The company was able to do this in part because it didn’t need to raise a lot of capital and people already understood what Spotify does. In other words, they didn’t need an investment bank to explain how the company works to investors in order to get them on board with buying shares.

Another way companies have been going public is via SPACs, or special purpose acquisition companies. SPACs are shell companies that raise money through an IPO, then use those proceeds to find a private business to buy. The SPAC then merges with the private business, taking the company public through the process.

SPACs tend to offer a speedier route to going public. They’ve also become more popular since determining the private company valuation is often done through negotiations that are conducted behind closed doors–a process that’s less vulnerable to volatility in the market.

Recommended: How Do SPACs Work?

How to Buy IPO Stock

1. Read the Prospectus

IPOs can be hard to analyze: It’s difficult to learn much about a company going public for the first time. There’s not a lot of information floating around beforehand since when companies are private, they don’t really have to disclose any earnings with the SEC. Before an IPO, you can look at two documents to get information about the company: Form S-1 and the red herring prospectus.

2. Find Brokerage

If you want to purchase shares of a stock in an IPO, you’ll most commonly have to go through a broker. Some firms also let you buy shares at the offering price as opposed to the trading price once the stock is on the public market.

3. Request Shares

Once a brokerage account is set up, you can let your broker know electronically or over the phone how many shares of what stock you’d like to buy and what order type. The broker will execute the trade for you, usually for a fee, although many online brokerages now offer zero commission trading.

IPO investing at your fingertips.

Don’t miss your chance – get in at the IPO price.

Is It a Good Idea to Buy IPO Stocks?

There can be a lot of buzz and anticipation surrounding an IPO. And that makes sense — remember, it’s the job of the underwriters to get people excited for the company’s debut. You may be tempted to jump in and buy shares immediately, but there are some things to consider.

IPOs tend to be by new companies that haven’t been around for a while. That increases the likelihood that they’re not yet profitable yet, and consequently, the valuation set by the IPO share price may be too high.

Recommended: Guide to Tech IPOs

Direct stock purchase plans (DSPPs) offer another way for individual investors to buy company stock without a broker. Shares purchased in this way may have lower fees and might even be cheaper to buy. A DSPP can also be a handy way for new investors to buy stocks for the first time as DSPPs offer low minimum deposits.

The SEC regulates DSPPs in the same way that it regulates stocks bought through a stock brokerage, so the risks to investors are the same no matter how they purchase the stock. DSPPs may be reserved for a special group of people who are close to the company.

Lock-up Periods 101

Shortly after a company’s IPO there may be a period in which its stock price experiences a downturn as a result of the lock-up period ending.

The IPO lock-up period is a restriction placed upon investors who acquired company stock before it went public that keeps them from selling their shares for a certain period of time after the IPO. The lock-up period typically ranges from 90 to 180 days. It’s meant to prevent too many shares in the early days of the IPO from flooding the market and driving prices down.

However, once the period is over, it can be a bit of a free-for-all as early investors cash in on their stocks. It may be worth waiting for this period to pass before buying shares in a newly public company.

The Takeaway

Investing in IPO stocks is risky, but it can be exciting for many investors. There’s the chance that a newly-public stock could see big gains, but it could also see big losses, too. That’s why it’s important to know what you’re getting into.

Ultimately, investors don’t really know what will happen when a stock goes public. Stock prices could skyrocket, but they could also plummet. If you have your heart set on investing in IPOs, you can find out about upcoming listings by taking a look at stock exchange websites.

Ready to invest in your goals? It’s easy to get started when you open an Active Invest account with SoFi Invest. You can invest in stocks, exchange-traded funds (ETFs), and more. SoFi doesn’t charge commissions, but other fees apply (full fee disclosure here).

For a limited time, opening and funding an account gives you the opportunity to win up to $1,000 in the stock of your choice.

SoFi Invest®
The information provided is not meant to provide investment or financial advice. Also, past performance is no guarantee of future results.
Investment decisions should be based on an individual’s specific financial needs, goals, and risk profile. SoFi can’t guarantee future financial performance. Advisory services offered through SoFi Wealth, LLC. SoFi Securities, LLC, member FINRA / SIPC . SoFi Invest refers to the three investment and trading platforms operated by Social Finance, Inc. and its affiliates (described below). Individual customer accounts may be subject to the terms applicable to one or more of the platforms below.
1) Automated Investing—The Automated Investing platform is owned by SoFi Wealth LLC, an SEC registered investment advisor (“Sofi Wealth“). Brokerage services are provided to SoFi Wealth LLC by SoFi Securities LLC, an affiliated SEC registered broker dealer and member FINRA/SIPC, (“Sofi Securities).

2) Active Investing—The Active Investing platform is owned by SoFi Securities LLC. Clearing and custody of all securities are provided by APEX Clearing Corporation.

3) Cryptocurrency is offered by SoFi Digital Assets, LLC, a FinCEN registered Money Service Business.

For additional disclosures related to the SoFi Invest platforms described above, including state licensure of Sofi Digital Assets, LLC, please visit www.sofi.com/legal.
Neither the Investment Advisor Representatives of SoFi Wealth, nor the Registered Representatives of SoFi Securities are compensated for the sale of any product or service sold through any SoFi Invest platform. Information related to lending products contained herein should not be construed as an offer or prequalification for any loan product offered by SoFi Bank, N.A.
Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.
Investing in an Initial Public Offering (IPO) involves substantial risk, including the risk of loss. Further, there are a variety of risk factors to consider when investing in an IPO, including but not limited to, unproven management, significant debt, and lack of operating history. For a comprehensive discussion of these risks please refer to SoFi Securities’ IPO Risk Disclosure Statement. IPOs offered through SoFi Securities are not a recommendation and investors should carefully read the offering prospectus to determine whether an offering is consistent with their investment objectives, risk tolerance, and financial situation.

New offerings generally have high demand and there are a limited number of shares available for distribution to participants. Many customers may not be allocated shares and share allocations may be significantly smaller than the shares requested in the customer’s initial offer (Indication of Interest). For SoFi’s allocation procedures please refer to IPO Allocation Procedures.
Claw Promotion: Customer must fund their Active Invest account with at least $10 within 30 days of opening the account. Probability of customer receiving $1,000 is 0.028%. See full terms and conditions.
SOIN0523120

Source: sofi.com

Apache is functioning normally

June 5, 2023 by Brett Tams

With the start of summer upon us, now may be a great time to evaluate your credit card portfolio. Credit card sign-up bonuses and welcome offers are the quickest and easiest way to rake in lots of points and miles, so we regularly update the roundup of our favorite current offers in our best credit cards guide.

But to help you keep up with an ever-changing list of bonuses, we’ve also compiled a list of the best card offers currently available — especially the ones that are worth an extra look right now because they are at all-time highs or may end soon.

Since many issuers have restrictions on how often you can earn a bonus on a card, it’s important to time your application for when there’s a good offer. Also, higher bonuses don’t always stick around for long, so if you’re considering one of these offers, you’ll want to hop on it sooner rather than later.

Finally, if you’re not ready to jump on a higher-end card, consider these great starter cards or even one with a 0% introductory annual percentage rate (APR) offer.

The best credit card offers for June 2023

Card	Sign-up bonus/welcome offer	Welcome offer value*	Annual fee
The Business Platinum Card® from American Express	120,000 points after you spend $15,000 on eligible purchases with the card within the first three months of card membership.	$2,400.	$695 (see rates and fees).
Ink Business Preferred Credit Card	100,000 points after you spend $15,000 on eligible purchases with the card within the first three months of card membership.	$2,000.	$95.
The Platinum Card® from American Express	80,000 points after you spend $6,000 in the first six months, though you may be able to get a higher bonus through the CardMatch tool (terms apply).	$1,600.	$695 (see rates and fees).
American Express® Green Card	60,000 points after you spend $3,000 on purchases in their first six months of card membership. Also, get 20% back on eligible travel and transit purchases in your first six months to earn up to $200 back.	$1,400 ($1,200 in points plus up to $200 in cash back).	$150 (see rates and fees).
Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card	75,000 miles after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first three months of account opening.	$1,388.	$395.
Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card	75,000 miles after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first three months of account opening.	$1,388.	$95.
Chase Sapphire Reserve	60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first three months of account opening.	$1,200.	$550.
Chase Sapphire Preferred Card	60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first three months of account opening.	$1,200.	$95.
American Express® Gold Card	60,000 points after you spend $4,000 in the first six months of card membership, though you may be able to get a higher bonus through the CardMatch tool (terms apply).	$1,200.	$250 (see rates and fees).
Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus Credit Card, Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier Credit Card, and Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority Credit Card	60,000 bonus points plus a 30% off promo code after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening.	$900.	$69 (Plus), $99 (Premier) and $149 (Priority).
United Club Infinite Card	80,000 bonus miles and 1,000 Premier qualifying points (PQP) after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening. Offer ends Aug. 9.	$880.	$525.
IHG Rewards Premier Business Card	165,000 points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening.	$825.	$99.
Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card	130,000 Hilton Honors bonus points and a free night reward after spending $2,000 in purchases on the card in the first three months of cardmembership. Offer ends July 19.	$780.	$95 (see rates and fees).

* Welcome offer value is determined using TPG valuations and is not provided by nor reviewed by the issuer.

The Business Platinum Card from American Express

RYAN PATTERSON/THE POINTS GUY

This business card stands out not only for its 120,000-point welcome offer but thanks to added travel perks that can easily cover the card’s $695 annual fee (see rates and fees). Cardholders enjoy automatic Gold status in both the Hilton Honors and Marriott Bonvoy loyalty programs, along with access to a wide variety of airport lounges — including Amex Centurion, Priority Pass and Delta Sky Club (when traveling on same-day Delta flights). Enrollment is required for select benefits.

Cardholders also enjoy 5 points per dollar on flights and prepaid hotels booked at American Express Travel, along with 1.5 points per dollar on eligible purchases in select business categories and eligible purchases of $5,000 or more (on up to $2 million of these purchases per calendar year).

Related: Amex refreshes Business Platinum Card with new perks, higher annual fee and a 120,000-point bonus

On top of that, the card comes with up to $200 in annual airline fee statement credits and a 35% points rebate for flights booked through Amex Travel in first or business class on any airline (up to 1 million points back per calendar year), or in any class on the U.S. airline of your choice each year. Non-travel benefits include up to $400 in annual statement credits toward U.S. Dell purchases, up to $360 in credits toward Indeed, up to $150 toward select Adobe purchases and up to $120 toward wireless telephone services.

Enrollment is required for select benefits.

Read our review of the American Express Business Platinum Card for more information.

Official application link: The Business Platinum Card® from American Express with 120,000 points after you spend $15,000 on eligible purchases with the card within the first three months of card membership.

Ink Business Preferred Credit Card

JOHN GRIBBEN/THE POINTS GUY

Then there’s the Ink Business Preferred. According to TPG’s valuations, this card’s welcome bonus alone is worth $2,000 since you can take advantage of Chase’s excellent collection of airline and hotel transfer partners. Points redeemed through the Chase travel portal are worth 1.25 cents each, which isn’t bad, either.

Another factor in this card’s favor? Its tremendous earning rates. You’ll earn 3 points per dollar across the following categories on up to $150,000 in combined purchases (1 point per dollar thereafter):

Travel.
Shipping purchases.
Internet, cable and phone services.
Advertising on social media sites and search engines.

Depending on which categories you spend in, you could earn a whopping 450,000 bonus points per year if you maxed out that $150,000 cap.

Among the Ink Business Preferred’s unsung benefits are cellphone protection, primary rental car coverage (when renting for business purposes) and other travel and purchase protections. You can also add employee cards to your account for free.

Read our full review of the Ink Business Preferred Credit Card for more information.

Official application link: Ink Business Preferred Credit Card with 100,000 bonus points after you spend $15,000 on eligible purchases with the card within the first three months of account opening.

The Platinum Card from American Express

ASHLEY KOSCIOLEK/THE POINTS GUY

Often referred to as the king of the premium travel rewards cards, the Amex Platinum offers a slew of benefits — along with a $695 annual fee (see rates and fees). Cardholders enjoy perks such as automatic Gold status with both Hilton Honors and Marriott Bonvoy plus access to a wide range of airport lounges, including Amex Centurion, Priority Pass and Delta Sky Club (on same-day Delta flights). On top of that, you’ll get up to $200 in annual airline fee statement credits, an up-to-$200 hotel statement credit to use toward prepaid Amex Fine Hotels + Resorts or The Hotel Collection bookings (the latter of which requires a minimum two-night stay) via Amex Travel, and an up-to-$189 Clear Plus membership statement credit — along with numerous other perks. Enrollment is required for select benefits.

Related: It’s a ‘lifestyle’ card now: A closer look at the Amex Platinum’s 6 new benefits

Non-travel benefits include an up-to-$240 digital entertainment statement credit (split into monthly $20 credits) for Audible, The New York Times, SiriusXM, Peacock, The Wall Street Journal and services under the Disney umbrella — including Disney+, ESPN+ and Hulu.

Cardholders also receive an up-to-$155 Walmart+ credit (subject to auto-renewal; Plus Ups are excluded), an up-to-$300 SoulCycle bike credit and an up-to-$300 Equinox statement credit for eligible Equinox memberships (now available as an annual benefit rather than monthly credits). You also receive Uber VIP status and up to $200 in annual Uber Cash (split into monthly $15 credits for U.S. rides and Uber Eats orders plus a $20 bonus in December).

Enrollment is required for select benefits.

Finally, cardholders will enjoy enhanced earning rates on many travel purchases:

5 points per dollar on flights booked directly with airlines or with Amex Travel (on up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year).
5 points per dollar on prepaid hotels booked with Amex Travel.
1 point per dollar on other eligible purchases.

And while the current welcome offer provides solid value, be sure to check the CardMatch Tool to see if you can receive an even higher one (offers are targeted and subject to change at any time).

Read our review of the American Express Platinum Card for more information.

Official application link: The Platinum Card® from American Express with 80,000 points after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first six months of card membership.

The American Express Green Card

WYATT SMITH/THE POINTS GUY

The American Express Green Card provides a compelling offering in the mid-tier travel category. With 3 points per dollar on broader travel, restaurants and transit as well as annual statement credits for Clear and LoungeBuddy that more than cover its annual fee, the Green from Amex is a card that modern travelers should consider.

The earning rates and benefits of the American Express Green Card will be most attractive to young professionals and millennials (or millennials at heart) who travel for work, pleasure or both. The card earns 3 Membership Rewards points per dollar on travel, restaurants and transit, so you’ll want to consider this card if a large chunk of your budget goes toward these categories.

The Amex Green also offers annual up to $189 Clear Plus and up to $100 LoungeBuddy statement credits that can more than offset the $150 annual fee (see rates and fees) while making your time in the airport more efficient and relaxing. If you can utilize these statement credits, the card can easily be a worthwhile addition to your purse or wallet.

Read our review of the Amex Green for more information.

Official application link: Amex Green with 60,000 Membership Rewards points after you spend $3,000 on purchases in your first six months of card membership. Also, get 20% back on eligible travel and transit purchases in your first six months to earn up to $200 back.

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

JOHN GRIBBEN/THE POINTS GUY

The Venture X card is Capital One’s premium rewards card and offers great earning rates and incredible perks.

Aside from a hefty welcome bonus of 75,000 miles after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first three months – worth about $1,388 according to our valuations thanks to Capital One’s excellent airline and hotel transfer partners – the card gives members up to $300 back in statement credits annually for bookings made through Capital One Travel and 10,000 bonus miles every account anniversary, starting on their first anniversary (worth $100 toward travel, or $185 by our valuations).

As for earning rates, the Venture X racks up 10 miles per dollar on hotels and car rentals booked via Capital One Travel, 5 miles per dollar on flights booked via Capital One Travel, and an unlimited 2 miles per dollar on everything else.

Frequent travelers will also enjoy taking advantage of access to Capital One’s developing network of airport lounges as well as the ability to enroll for Priority Pass membership for entry into more than 1,300 lounge locations worldwide (though this no longer includes participating restaurants). It also added the ability to access Plaza Premium lounges worldwide in 2022 and launched The Premier Collection in 2023, giving cardmembers on-property perks at a curated set of luxury hotels.

Read our review of the Capital One Venture X card for more information.

Official application link: Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card with 75,000 bonus miles after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening.

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

WYATT SMITH/THE POINTS GUY

The Venture Rewards packs a pretty good punch for a mid-tier credit card. It earns a flat 2 miles per dollar spent on all purchases worldwide, but you can earn 5 miles per dollar on hotels and car rentals booked through Capital One Travel. The miles you earn with this card can be transferred to Capital One’s 17 airline and three hotel partners or redeemed through the Capital One Travel portal.

The card stands out for offering an application fee credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck every four years; many other cards that offer this benefit have annual fees of $400 or more. This TSA PreCheck/Global Entry application fee credit alone is worth up to $100. When making everyday purchases, you may also get Warranty Manager Service which can be used for extended warranty protection. The Venture Rewards card doesn’t impose foreign transaction fees, so you can use the card overseas without accumulating extra charges.

Read our review of the Capital One Venture Rewards Card for more information.

Official application link: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card with 75,000 bonus miles after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening.

Chase Sapphire Reserve

WYATT SMITH/THE POINTS GUY

This is one of the best premium credit cards available.

It earns a whopping 10 points per dollar on Lyft (through March 2025), Chase Dining booked through Ultimate Rewards, and hotel and car rental purchases through the Ultimate Rewards Travel portal. Cardholders also earn 5 points per dollar on airline travel booked through the Ultimate Rewards Travel portal, 3 points per dollar on travel (after using the $300 travel credit) and dining, and 1 point per dollar on everything else.

Chase defines travel and dining quite broadly, including everything from parking fees to Airbnb stays and food delivery orders. Perks of the card include a $300 annual travel credit, Priority Pass membership, a $5 monthly DoorDash in-app credit (through December 2024), a complimentary DashPass membership and an impressive array of travel protections.

Read our review of the Chase Sapphire Reserve for more information.

Official application link: Chase Sapphire Reserve with 60,000 points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first three months of card membership.

Chase Sapphire Preferred Card

JOHN GRIBBEN/THE POINTS GUY

If you can’t justify a high annual fee or want a solid card with an appealing set of perks, the Chase Sapphire Preferred is an ideal fit. It earns 5 points per dollar on all travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards; 3 points per dollar on dining, including eligible delivery services, takeout and dining out; 3 points per dollar on select streaming services; 3 points per dollar on online grocery purchases (excluding Target, Walmart and wholesale clubs); 2 points per dollar on all other travel; and 1 point per dollar on all other purchases.

The points you earn with this card can be transferred to Chase’s airline and hotel partners or redeemed for 1.25 cents each through the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal. Benefits include a $50 annual credit on hotel stays purchased through Ultimate Rewards, at least 12 months of DashPass membership (when activated by Dec. 31, 2024), primary rental car coverage, up to $500 in trip delay reimbursement if you’re delayed more than 12 hours or overnight, up to $10,000 in trip cancellation and interruption insurance and up to $100 per day for up to five days in baggage delay reimbursement if your bag is delayed more than six hours.

Read our review of the Chase Sapphire Preferred for more information.

Official application link: Chase Sapphire Preferred with 60,000 points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening.

American Express® Gold Card

WYATT SMITH/THE POINTS GUY

The Amex Gold card is a favorite of many TPG staffers thanks (in large part) to its terrific earning rates:

4 points per dollar on dining at restaurants (including takeout and delivery in the U.S.)
4 points per dollar at U.S. supermarkets on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year (1 point per dollar after that).
3 points per dollar on flights booked directly with airlines or through Amex Travel.
1 point per dollar on all other eligible purchases.

The card also offers up to $120 in annual credit for Uber rides and Uber Eats purchases and up to $120 in statement credits for select dining purchases (enrollment is required for select benefits) — all for a manageable annual fee of $250 (see rates and fees)

And while it’s not providing a limited-time bonus for new cardmembers, you can often find elevated welcome offers through the CardMatch tool. The card currently features a public welcome offer of 60,000 points after you spend $4,000 on eligible purchases within the first six months of card membership. However, some new customers can earn a 75,000-point or even 90,000-point welcome offer via the CardMatch tool after meeting the same minimum spending requirements. Note that these elevated offers are targeted and subject to change at any time.

Alternatively, you can refer a friend through the Amex referral program — and when your friend applies for a new account by June 7, you can earn an additional +5 rewards per dollar (as either points or cash back, depending on the card) on eligible U.S. supermarket purchases for three months after they’re approved (starting from the first date the referred friend’s account is opened), on up to $25,000.

Additionally, new applicants for the Amex Gold through a referral link will be eligible for an up to $200 statement credit after reaching minimum spending requirements, on top of that card’s usual welcome offer.

Read our review of the American Express Gold Card for more information.

Official application link: American Express® Gold Card with 60,000 points after you spend $4,000 in the first six months of card membership.

Southwest personal cards

JOHN GRESS MEDIA INC/SHUTTERSTOCK

All three personal of Southwest’s personal credit cards — the Rapid Rewards Plus, Rapid Rewards Premier and Rapid Rewards Priority — are currently sporting identical welcome offers: 60,000 bonus points plus a 30% off promo code after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening. This is the first time Southwest has offered a promo code as part of a sign-up bonus on a credit card.

The code will appear directly in your Southwest.com account within eight weeks of meeting the spending requirement. It can be used — only once — on a single one-way or round-trip Wanna Get Away, Wanna Get Away Plus, Anytime and Business Select fare, and is available for use until October 31, 2024.

Given it is a single-use promo code, it would be best to save this for a more expensive ticket. You’ll get the biggest savings when using the code for round-trip travel and/or during peak travel periods like the summer or the holidays.

Read more about the three cards and this limited-time offer.

Official application link: Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus

Official application link: Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier

Official application link: Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority

United Club Infinite Card

The United Club Infinite Card is the ideal card for United lounge access — bar none.

The United Club Infinite Card’s $525 annual fee sounds high until you factor in the United Club membership included with the card. Membership normally costs $650 per year for non-elite members.

In addition, one of the primary disadvantages of many airline credit cards is a low return on spending, even on branded purchases, as most airline cards only offer 2 or 3 points per dollar on airline purchases. But the United Club Infinite Card sets a new standard with an impressive 4 points per dollar on United purchases.

If you spend thousands of dollars on United flights each year, the United Club Infinite Card is worth considering.

Read our review of the United Club Infinite for more information.

Official application link: United Club Infinite with 80,000 bonus miles and 1,000 Premier qualifying points (PQP) after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening. Offer ends Aug. 9.

IHG Rewards Premier Business Card

THE POINTS GUY

New applicants for the IHG Rewards Premier Business card can earn 165,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 on purchases within three months from account opening.

Your bonus will come in the form of IHG points, which TPG values at half a cent each. Thus, this bonus is worth $825.

Generally speaking, you won’t get fantastic earning rates on most hotel credit cards — especially on broad categories like dining and groceries. That said, the IHG Premier Business card could be a solid option, especially at participating IHG properties.

When you use your card at IHG hotels and resorts, you’ll earn 10 points per dollar spent on your stay. This is in addition to the 10 base points that all IHG One Rewards members accrue at most participating brands. And since you have automatic Platinum Elite status with the card, that’ll give you another 60% bonus on top of the base points. When combined, that translates to a total of 26 points per dollar spent on most IHG stays — or a 13% return on spending, based on TPG’s valuations.

Beyond IHG purchases, cardholders of the IHG Premier Business will earn points at the following rates:

5 points per dollar spent on travel, dining and gas purchases.
5 points per dollar in select business categories, such as social media and search engine advertising and at office supply stores.
3 points per dollar spent on all other purchases.

You’ll also receive a free night certificate (worth up to 40,000 points) every year when you renew your card and enjoy your fourth night free on award stays of four nights (or longer)

Read our full review of the IHG Rewards Premier Business for more information.

Official application link: IHG Rewards Premier Business card with 165,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 on purchases within three months from account opening.

Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card

THE POINTS GUY

The Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card provides solid earnings at Hilton properties and automatic Hilton Gold elite status, which offers complimentary breakfast, increased earnings and space-available upgrades when you stay at Hilton properties.

Hilton Honors Gold status is one of the best mid-tier hotel loyalty statuses you can obtain. As a Hilton Gold elite member, you’ll get complimentary breakfast, space-available room upgrades and improved earnings when staying at Hilton brands. Luckily, you can easily earn and maintain Hilton Gold status since it is an automatic perk of the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass Card.

The Hilton Surpass card is an ideal choice for those who stay at Hilton properties often and want a cobranded credit card with a modest annual fee and valuable perks.

Read our full review of the Hilton Surpass for more information.

Official application link: Hilton Surpass with 130,000 bonus points and a free night reward after spending $2,000 in purchases on the card in the first three months of cardmembership. Offer ends July 19.

*Bonus offer value is based on TPG valuations and not provided by issuers.

For Capital One products listed on this page, some of the above benefits are provided by Visa® or Mastercard® and may vary by product. See the respective Guide to Benefits for details, as terms and exclusions apply

For rates and fees of the Amex Platinum card, click here.
For rates and fees of the Amex Business Platinum card, click here.
For rates and fees of the Amex Gold card, click here.

For rates and fees of the Amex Green card, click here.

For rates and fees of the Hilton Honors Amex Surpass, click here.

Additional reporting by Ryan Wilcox and Eric Rosen.

Source: thepointsguy.com

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June 5, 2023 by Brett Tams

Wyndham Rewards just started a new status match and challenge offer. This offer lets you match your status from another hotel loyalty program to Gold, Platinum or Diamond in Wyndham Rewards for 90 days. Plus, you can keep your matched status through Dec. 31 of the next calendar year if you stay a specific number of qualifying nights within 90 days of an approved match.

You can also earn Wyndham Rewards elite status — including top-tier Diamond status — relatively easily through cobranded Wyndham Rewards credit cards.

So why should you care about the status match offer? Here’s what you need to know.

Related: The 12 best Wyndham hotels in the world

What’s special about Wyndham Rewards’ elite status?

The Viva Wyndham Azteca — All-Inclusive Resort in Mexico. KATIE GENTER/THE POINTS GUY

Some hotel loyalty programs offer generous perks to elite members, while others offer minimal perks. Wyndham Rewards generally falls into the latter category, offering only modest perks even for members with top-tier Diamond status. But here’s an overview of the standout perks at each Wyndham Rewards elite status tier:

Blue (requires zero nights per calendar year): Free Wi-Fi during stays.
Gold (typically requires five nights per calendar year): 10% bonus points on stays, a preferred room within the same category upon request and late checkout upon request (subject to availability).
Platinum (typically requires 15 nights per calendar year): 15% bonus points on stays, Caesars Rewards status match and early check-in upon request (subject to availability).
Diamond (typically requires 40 nights per calendar year): 20% bonus points on stays, complimentary snack or beverage when checking into select hotels and suite upgrades upon request (subject to availability at check-in).

Despite the limited elite perks, it’s worth earning Wyndham Rewards elite status for some travelers. After all, you’ll enjoy perks and higher earning rates on stays at Wyndham properties. And although Caesars halted its status merry-go-round with Wyndham in 2022, Platinum members and higher can still match earned Wyndham Rewards status to Caesars Rewards.

Wyndham Rewards status obtained through a status match shouldn’t be eligible to match to Caesars Rewards, and it’s unclear whether status obtained through a status challenge will be eligible. But we know that Wyndham status earned through stays or a cobranded Wyndham Rewards credit card can be matched to Caesars Rewards.

Once you have Caesars Rewards Diamond status, you can enjoy waived resort fees at participating Caesars Rewards properties, a complimentary stay at Atlantis Paradise Island in the Bahamas and free parking at Caesars Rewards properties in Las Vegas.

Related: Which credit card should you use for Wyndham stays?

Wyndham Rewards status match and challenge

MORSA IMAGES/GETTY IMAGES

Wyndham Rewards occasionally lets members match their status from other hotel loyalty programs. Specifically, here are the statuses you can match to each Wyndham Rewards elite status tier:

Gold: Marriott Bonvoy member, World of Hyatt member, Hilton Honors member, IHG One Rewards member, Choice Privileges member, Best Western Rewards Blue, Radisson Rewards Club member and Omni Select Guest Gold.
Platinum: Marriott Bonvoy Silver Elite; World of Hyatt Discoverist and Explorist; Hilton Honors Silver; IHG One Rewards Silver Elite and Gold Elite; Choice Privileges Gold and Platinum; Best Western Rewards Gold, Platinum and Diamond; Radisson Rewards Silver and Gold; and Omni Select Guest Silver Elite and Gold Elite.
Diamond: Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite and higher, World of Hyatt Globalist, Hilton Honors Gold and higher, IHG One Rewards Platinum Elite and higher, Choice Privileges Diamond, Best Western Rewards Diamond Select, Radisson Rewards Platinum and Omni Select Guest Platinum Elite and higher.

To request a match, go to this page on Wyndham’s website, sign in to your account and complete the status match request form. You’ll need to submit proof of your hotel loyalty program status and then wait five to seven business days for validation of your match via email.

Once Wyndham validates your status match, you’ll have your matched status for 90 days. But if you complete specific stay requirements during the 90 days, you can keep your matched status through Dec. 31 of the following calendar year. You must stay one qualifying night to keep Gold, four qualifying nights to keep Platinum and 10 qualifying nights to keep Diamond.

Luckily, Wyndham Rewards counts most paid nights and award nights as qualifying. So, you can even redeem Wyndham points to get qualifying nights toward your status challenge.

Related: What are hotel and airline status matches, and how do you get one?

Earning Wyndham status through a credit card

The Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach in Florida. WYNDHAM GRAND CLEARWATER BEACH/WYNDHAM

Several cobranded Wyndham credit cards offer elite status as a perk for as long as you’re a cardholder:

Wyndham Rewards Earner® Card: Primary cardholders automatically receive Wyndham Rewards Gold status within two to eight weeks of opening this no-annual-fee card (see rates and fees).
Wyndham Rewards Earner® Plus Card: Primary cardholders automatically receive Wyndham Rewards Platinum status within two to eight weeks of opening this $75-annual-fee card (see rates and fees).
Wyndham Rewards Earner® Business Card: Primary cardholders automatically receive Wyndham Rewards Diamond status within two to eight weeks of opening this $95-annual-fee card.

The information for the Wyndham Earner Card, Wyndham Earner Plus, and Wyndham Rewards Earner Business Card has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

If you value having Wyndham Diamond status but don’t stay with Wyndham hotels 40 nights a year, the Wyndham Rewards Earner Business Card could be well worth its $95 annual fee. And if you use Wyndham Diamond status to match to Caesars Rewards, you may get significantly more value than the card’s annual fee each year from an Atlantis stay and waived resort fees at Caesars properties in Las Vegas.

Related: 7 things to know before booking a stay at Viva Wyndham Azteca

Bottom line

You can earn Wyndham Rewards elite status through stays. But a status match and challenge can be a good way to quickly earn elite status if you want to switch your loyalty. And Wyndham credit cards offer an easy, ongoing path to status — including top-tier Diamond status. If you value Caesars Diamond perks and a 20% bonus on earnings at Wyndham hotels, it may be worth getting and keeping the Wyndham Rewards Earner Business Card to maintain Wyndham Rewards Diamond status.

Source: thepointsguy.com

Apache is functioning normally

June 4, 2023 by Brett Tams

What Debt Ceiling? Yields Follow NFP Higher

By:
Matthew Graham

Fri, Jun 2 2023, 4:13 PM

What Debt Ceiling? Yields Follow NFP Higher

After being utterly bombarded for weeks, newswire feeds at trading terminals are suddenly devoid of debt ceiling headlines. To be fair, there have been a few mentions of final approval set for this weekend, but markets moved on long ago. If there was any reaction in longer term rates, it played out by Tuesday night. Today’s sell-off was all about nonfarm payrolls. Today’s AM commentary has all of the charts and discussion on that topic. Today’s recap is just here to let you know bonds continued selling into the afternoon with 5.0 MBS losing almost half a point.

- Nonfarm Payrolls
  - 339k vs 190k f’cast, 253k prev
- Unemployment Rate
  - 3.7 vs 3.5 f’cast, 3.4 prev
- Participation rate
  - unchanged at 62.6
- Earnings
  - 0.3 vs 0.4 f’cast, 0.5 prev

08:53 AM

flat overnight. weaker after jobs data. 10yr up 3.8bps at 3.639. MBS down roughly a quarter point.

10:36 AM

recovery attempt until 9:30am. Weaker since then. MBS down 3/8ths. 10yr up 6bps at 3.662.

03:35 PM

Additional selling into the PM hours and flat since then. 10yr up 9bps at 3.689. MBS down just over 3/8ths.

Download our mobile app to get alerts for MBS Commentary and streaming MBS and Treasury prices.

Source: mortgagenewsdaily.com

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What Debt Ceiling? Yields Follow NFP Higher