Financial products

A credit card grace period is the time between the end of your billing cycle and your payment due date. During this period, you can pay off your full balance without paying any interest. It’s one of the best features of credit cards — but it only works if you know how to use it correctly.

✅ 5 Things to Know About Grace Periods:

1. It typically lasts 21 to 25 days after the billing cycle ends. If you pay your balance in full within this time, you won’t be charged interest.
2. You must pay 100% of the balance, not just the minimum payment. Paying only part of it means interest starts building on the remaining amount.
3. If you carry a balance, your next purchases won’t have a grace period — interest applies immediately.
4. Cash advances don’t qualify — they start charging interest right away, no matter what.
5. Treat the grace period as a free loan window — use it smartly and you’ll never pay extra.

👉 A grace period is a gift — but only if you pay your balance on time and in full.

Your credit limit is the maximum amount you’re allowed to borrow on a credit card or line of credit. It may sound simple, but knowing how it works — and how to stay within it — can protect your credit score and your peace of mind.

✅ 5 Key Points About Credit Limits:

1. It’s the cap on how much you can borrow — not how much you should.
2. Using too much of it (over 30%) can lower your credit score.
3. Paying on time and in full can increase your limit over time.
4. Going over your limit may lead to fees, declined purchases, or account freezes.
5. Your income, credit score, and repayment history affect how your limit is set.

👉 A smart borrower doesn’t just stay under the limit — they use credit like a tool, not a trap.

A line of credit is a flexible way to borrow money when you don’t need it all at once. It’s different from a loan – you can borrow, repay, and borrow again, like a financial safety net. Here’s how it works and when it makes sense.

✅ 5 Key Facts About Lines of Credit:

1. You get approved for a maximum amount, but only pay interest on what you actually use.
2. It’s reusable — repay what you used, and the money becomes available again.
3. Interest rates are often lower than credit cards, but higher than personal loans.
4. It’s great for irregular expenses — home repairs, business costs, or school fees.
5. You need good credit to qualify, and repayment discipline is key.

👉 A line of credit gives you borrowing power on standby — just don’t treat it like free money.

• ETF means Exchange-Traded Fund — don’t worry, it’s simple.
• It’s like a basket with many stocks inside, not just one.
• You can buy or sell ETFs on the stock market easily.
• Good way to invest in many things at once with less risk.

👉 An ETF is an easy way to own a piece of many companies.

• A bond is when you lend your money to a company or government.
• They pay you back later — with extra money called interest.
• Bonds are safer than stocks, but they usually grow slower.
• Good for people who want steady and safe income

👉 A bond is a loan you give — and they pay you for it.

An investment account is where your money doesn’t just sit — it works for you. If you’re looking to build wealth over time, this is one of the smartest tools you can use. It’s a type of account where you can buy and hold financial assets like stocks, bonds, mutual funds, or ETFs. Unlike savings accounts, investment accounts aim to grow your money, not just store it.

• Start small.
  Many platforms let you begin with as little as $10 or ₦5,000. You don’t need to be rich to start investing — just consistent.
• Money grows over time.
  Through interest, dividends, or price increases, your money has the chance to multiply. The longer you leave it invested, the better your chances.
• There’s always risk.
  Investments can rise or fall in value. Unlike savings accounts, returns are not guaranteed. Only invest what you can afford to leave untouched for a while.
• Use for long-term goals.
  Investment accounts are great for goals like retirement, buying a house, or your child’s education — not for next month’s rent.
• Types vary.
  Some accounts are managed by professionals, while others are DIY through apps or online brokers. Choose based on your knowledge and risk comfort.
• Know the fees.
  Look out for account charges, trading fees, or management costs. Even small fees can eat into your returns over time.

👉 An investment account is a place to grow your future money. It’s not magic — it’s patience, planning, and smart choices over time.

If you’re just starting your credit journey or trying to recover from past mistakes, a secured credit card can be your way forward. It’s safe, simple, and designed to help you build trust with lenders.

• A secured credit card requires a refundable deposit, often equal to your credit limit. For example, a ₦50,000 deposit usually gives you a ₦50,000 credit line.
• It’s designed for people with no credit or low credit scores — and helps you build or repair credit over time.
• Your payments are reported to credit bureaus. Using the card responsibly — staying under the limit and paying on time — gradually improves your credit profile.
• Use it for everyday purchases, but stay disciplined. Never spend more than you can repay.
• Always pay the full balance each month. This avoids interest charges and shows you’re managing credit wisely.
• After 6–12 months of good usage, some banks may upgrade you to an unsecured credit card — no deposit required

👉 A secured credit card is your stepping stone to bigger financial opportunities.

A mortgage loan helps you buy a home without paying the full cost upfront. It’s one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll ever make — and it requires long-term commitment.

• A mortgage is a loan for buying property. It’s used to purchase a house, apartment, or land. The bank or lender gives you most of the money, and you repay them over many years.
• Repayment is usually long-term. Most mortgages last 15 to 30 years. You pay back the loan in monthly installments, which include both principal and interest.
• The house is the collateral. If you fail to repay, the lender can take back the property — this is called foreclosure. It’s the risk that comes with the loan.
• You’ll need a down payment. Most lenders require 10–30% of the home’s price upfront. The more you put down, the less you borrow — and the lower your monthly payments.
• Additional costs apply. Be ready for legal fees, property insurance, valuation fees, and possibly taxes.

Fixed-rate vs. variable-rate mortgages:

• Fixed-rate: Your interest rate stays the same for the entire loan period. Easier for budgeting.
• Variable-rate: Your interest can go up or down over time, based on market changes. You may pay less at first, but more later.

👉 A mortgage makes homeownership possible — but only with careful planning.

• A credit builder app helps you build a credit history — even if you’ve never had a loan or card.
• You “borrow” a small amount held in a savings account — then repay it monthly.
• Each payment is reported to credit bureaus — boosting your credit score over time.
• Great for first-timers, gig workers, or anyone rejected by regular banks.

👉 A credit builder app turns small steps into long-term financial trust.