Author: Elliot Marlowe

Are ISAs Taxable in the USA? What Americans Need to Know

Are ISAs Taxable in the USA? What Americans Need to Know

ISAs are tax-free in the UK, but the U.S. IRS doesn't recognize them. Americans with ISAs must report all growth, dividends, and interest - and may face heavy penalties for unreported PFICs and foreign accounts.

Elliot Marlowe 26.01.2026
What Is the 20% Credit Card Rule and How It Saves You Money

What Is the 20% Credit Card Rule and How It Saves You Money

The 20% credit card rule helps you maintain a strong credit score by keeping your total card balances under 20% of your total credit limits. Learn how timing your payments can make a big difference.

Elliot Marlowe 22.01.2026
What Is a 70-15-15 Budget? A Simple Way to Manage Your Money

What Is a 70-15-15 Budget? A Simple Way to Manage Your Money

The 70-15-15 budget splits your income into 70% spending, 15% saving, and 15% investing. Simple, flexible, and effective for real New Zealanders who want to build wealth without stress.

Elliot Marlowe 18.01.2026
How Long Will It Take to Get Student Loan Forgiveness?

How Long Will It Take to Get Student Loan Forgiveness?

Student loan forgiveness timelines vary from 5 to 25 years depending on your job, loan type, and repayment plan. Learn the real paths to forgiveness and how to avoid common mistakes.

Elliot Marlowe 15.01.2026
Is a Pension Lifelong? What Really Happens When You Retire in New Zealand

Is a Pension Lifelong? What Really Happens When You Retire in New Zealand

New Zealand's Superannuation is paid for life once you turn 65, but it's not enough to live comfortably. Learn how it works, what can stop it, and why saving on your own is still essential.

Elliot Marlowe 11.01.2026
What Is the Risk of Remortgage? Key Dangers and How to Avoid Them

What Is the Risk of Remortgage? Key Dangers and How to Avoid Them

Remortgaging can save money - or cost you tens of thousands. Learn the real risks in New Zealand: hidden fees, extended terms, equity traps, and credit score damage. Know when it's smart - and when to walk away.

Elliot Marlowe 8.01.2026
What Is the Downside of Buying Bitcoin? Real Risks You Can't Ignore

What Is the Downside of Buying Bitcoin? Real Risks You Can't Ignore

Buying Bitcoin comes with serious risks: extreme volatility, no legal protection, potential for total loss, and no income. It's not a reliable store of value or inflation hedge. Know the downsides before you invest.

Elliot Marlowe 5.01.2026
What Is the Best Budgeting Strategy for Real Life in 2026?

What Is the Best Budgeting Strategy for Real Life in 2026?

The best budgeting strategy isn't one-size-fits-all. Learn which method-zero-based, 50/30/20, envelopes, or automation-fits your life in 2026 and actually sticks.

Elliot Marlowe 4.01.2026
What Is the Worst Month for Crypto Investing?

What Is the Worst Month for Crypto Investing?

September has historically been the worst month for crypto prices, with Bitcoin and altcoins often dropping 8-12%. Learn why this happens, how to protect your investments, and when to buy back.

Elliot Marlowe 29.12.2025
How to Beat Chase 5/24 Rule: Smart Strategies for Approved Credit Cards

How to Beat Chase 5/24 Rule: Smart Strategies for Approved Credit Cards

Learn how to legally beat Chase's 5/24 rule with smart strategies like business cards, authorized user accounts, and product changes - without hurting your credit score.

Elliot Marlowe 28.12.2025
Can You Pay a Credit Card Bill With Another Credit Card?

Can You Pay a Credit Card Bill With Another Credit Card?

You can't pay a credit card bill with the same card, but you can transfer debt to another card with a 0% intro APR. Learn how balance transfers work, when they help, and what to avoid.

Elliot Marlowe 25.12.2025
Why Is 0 APR on Credit Cards Actually a Trap?

Why Is 0 APR on Credit Cards Actually a Trap?

0 APR credit card offers seem like a deal, but they often trap users with hidden fees, high interest after the promo ends, and credit score damage. Here's why they're more dangerous than they look.

Elliot Marlowe 22.12.2025