Krisette

Articles by Krisette Lim

Maria Krisette Capati-Lim is a contributing writer at MoneySmart for over four years. With an extensive background in the intersections of digital marketing, technology, lifestyle and personal finance, she believes that learning is a lifetime pursuit to become better ever day. When she's not writing, she's either checking her income and expenses on a spreadsheet or tinkering with her personal websites.

gadget loans in the philippines
Borrow Money
Gadget Loans in the Philippines: Should You Get One?
Are you considering a new laptop for work or school? Reality check — gadgets have become essential to our daily lives. However, buying new devices can be a significant financial burden to some. This is where gadget loans come in as a potential solution. Unsurprisingly, the number of downloads of online lending apps in the…
1 October 2023
investment brokerage in the philippines
Investing
How to Decide Which Investment Brokerage in the Philippines Is Best For You
Are you ready to take control of your financial future? Investing in the stock market is a great way to grow your wealth, and there are a handful of choices. So, how would you know which investment brokerage to choose? But before that, let’s get some facts about investments in the Philippines. In 2022, online…
29 September 2023
best debit cards in the philippines
Smart Money
The Best Debit Cards in the Philippines: Compare Features, Fees, and Perks
Shopee, Spotify, and Netflix are shaping how we pay for services, as you can do it online with GCash, Maya, or GrabPay. But while cash is still king in wet and flea markets, having a debit card for online shopping and in-store purchases is still convenient for those who prefer cashless transactions. In 2022, 126…
25 September 2023
money saving tips before the baby arrives in the philippines
Saving
5 Money Saving Tips Before the Baby Arrives: Are You Financially Ready?
Congratulations on your upcoming bundle of joy. With all the excitement and anticipation, we hope you have taken the time to ensure that you are financially ready for the baby’s arrival. On average, the cost of giving birth in the Philippines ranges from ₱25,000 to ₱60,000 for normal delivery in a hospital. That doesn’t include…
9 September 2023
Atome app review in the Philippines: image of women scrolling on a moble app
Borrow Money
Atome Buy Now Pay Later App in Philippines: Is It Legit?
Online shopping is booming in the Philippines as more Filipinos flock to e-commerce for a wide range of products and services. As of March 2023, there are 74.91 million monthly online shoppers, most of whom shop for electronics, personal care, and household goods. With this trend, new payment alternatives such as Atome have emerged. Atome…
25 August 2023
emergency kit typhoons in the philippines
Lifestyle
What to Include in an Emergency Kit This Typhoon Season in the Philippines
The Philippines is located in a region where typhoons are frequent and intense. With the rainy season that starts in June and lasts until November, it’s crucial to have an emergency kit that is well-stocked and ready in case of calamities. While heatwaves are unlikely to happen this time, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical…
22 August 2023
Zalora credit card review
Credit Card
ZALORA Credit Card: Earn Rewards and Cashback When You Shop Online
Are you looking for an easy way to shop on ZALORA and save simultaneously? Look no further than the RCBC co-branded credit card, ZALORA Mastercard. This rewards card offers multiple benefits to make shopping more enjoyable than ever: great deals and discounts, free shipping, contactless payments, and much more. Whether you’re a family of savers…
9 August 2023
good debt vs bad debt in the philippines
Borrow Money
Good Debt vs Bad Debt: Understanding These Principles to Stay on Top of Your Finances
Debt. We know it’s not exactly a thrilling topic, but the lack of knowledge is a recipe for disaster. It’s essential to understand the difference between good debt and bad debt to take control of your finances. In fact, 70% of Filipinos are stressed because of debt. But of course, we’re not here to bore…
29 July 2023
grabpay philippines review
Shopping
GrabPay Review: Your E-Wallet on the Go
Mobile wallets are becoming a staple in our lives. They have made life more convenient, from buying groceries online to settling bills with just a few taps. With a few notable mobile wallet options available, you want to ensure you’re in the know with the latest ones. Notably, GrabPay Philippines offers beyond just a convenient…
12 July 2023
pasalo or assume balance
Property
What Is Pasalo or Assume Balance and Why Need to be Cautious About It
Pasalo or assume balance is a term that has become popularized among those seeking to transfer ownership of cars, homes, and other properties through online platforms, especially in the Philippines. But with this newfound popularity comes cautionary tales of fraudulent schemes and scams that have left many unsuspecting individuals in financial ruin. To help you…
12 July 2023
home equity loan in the philippines
Borrow Money
Home Equity Loan in The Philippines: How to Use It to Your Advantage?
Are you feeling the sting of the 8.7% inflation rate in the Philippines? If so, you might need help to fund big-ticket items or long-term goals you’ve been dreaming of. Enter home equity loan. This financing option allows homeowners to borrow their property’s market value. With this type of loan, you can fund medical bills,…
28 June 2023
10 best savings accounts with life insurance in the Philippines
Saving
10 Best Savings Accounts with Free Life Insurance in the Philippines – MoneySmart Review 2023
Saving money requires self-control, focus, and commitment. Whether you’re a student, young professional, or parent, planning your finances is like walking on a tightrope. But life will also surprise you with unexpected events, whether a job loss, medical emergency, or accident. It’s just a matter of when. Nothing beats being prepared for these situations. What…
7 June 2023
gcash alternatives
Shopping
GCash Alternatives Worth Exploring for Cashless Transactions
Are you one of the many Filipinos who rely on GCash for your cashless transactions? You may have seen the recent news about unauthorized transactions and hacking issues, causing alarm and frustration among users. According to a recent statement by GCash, all affected e-wallets have been adjusted as of 4:00 pm on May 9th. However,…
13 May 2023
26 Mother’s Day Gift Ideas for Supermoms (2023)
Lifestyle
26 Mother’s Day Gift Ideas for Supermoms (2023)
It’s that time of the year again to celebrate our beloved mommies. If you’re looking for the perfect gift to make your supermom feel extra special this Mother’s Day, you’ve come to the right place. We know how hard it is to think of great ideas, so we put together a comprehensive guide with gifts…
10 May 2023
Can-Debt-Consolidation-Help-In-Managing-Debt
Borrow Money
Can Debt Consolidation Help In Managing Debts?
Debt can overwhelm struggling consumers, whether with piled-up bills or personal loans. According to Banko Sentral ng Pilipinas, consumer debt is surging to 30%, particularly with credit card loans. One thing’s for sure — anyone into multiple debts would like to get out of them sooner. But can debt consolidation provide another avenue for relief?…
27 April 2023
earned-vs-passive-income-featured-image
Investing
Earned Income vs Passive Income: The Power of Diversification
Building wealth and ensuring financial security for the future is everyone’s wish list. If money grows on trees, how easy would it be to pluck bills without working? But that’s not the case, and that’s why adding a new layer of understanding on earned and passive income is a moneysmart way to get started. Both…
19 April 2023
buy now pay later philippines
Borrow Money
Buy Now Pay Later Philippines: Atome, Billease, and HomeCredit – Which is Better?
Are you looking for ways to buy an item via installments without a credit card? Well, Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) services are your answer. BNPL provides customers with short-term funding and zero to low interest payments that prioritize flexibility and convenience. Atome, Billease, and HomeCredit are three of the most popular BNPL service providers…
10 April 2023
pag-ibig or bank loan which is better
Property
PAG-IBIG vs Bank Loan – Which Is Better? 4 Things to Know Before You Commit
Planning to purchase your ultimate dream home? Choosing the right housing loan could be a dilemma as financing is complicated and confusing to some. But it shouldn’t be if you research and compare interest rates and offers. You could also take the in-house financing option, but the interest rates are higher. Another option is to…
5 April 2023
how to beat impulse buying save now enjoy later
Smart Money
How to Beat Impulse Buying: Save Now, Enjoy Later
It’s hard to resist the seductive lures of impulse buying. Scrolling through online shops and landing on a must-have item at an unbeatable price can excite our hearts. The sense of joy may be short-lived, especially when the financial consequences – from mounting credit card bills to empty wallets – become a reality. Fortunately, there…
3 April 2023
Is Franchising Profitable in the Philippines? A Beginners Guide on How to Get Started
Business
Is Franchising Profitable in the Philippines? A Beginners Guide on How to Get Started
Franchising can be an attractive venture for any aspiring entrepreneur. You can access a well-established brand, an existing support system, and a targeted customer base. If you’re considering this route, you’ve come to the right place. This article will discuss the basics of franchising and others things to do as a franchisee. Are you willing…
30 March 2023
7 Travel Tips to Get the Best Deals On Your Next Summer Vacation
Travel
7 Travel Tips to Get the Best Deals On Your Next Summer Vacation
Do you dream of a well-deserved summer vacation but worry it won’t fit your budget? Good news: you don’t have to be a travel expert or spend all your savings to make the most of your next summer getaway. While traveling is good for your mental health, you want to ensure it won’t cause stress…
29 March 2023
The-Best-Credit-Cards-for-Women-in-the-Philippines-Online-Shopping-Rewards-and-Other-Perks-2021
Credit Card
The Best Credit Cards for Women in the Philippines – Online Shopping, Rewards, and Other Perks (2023)
Calling all smart and savvy ladies! If you’re on the hunt for a new credit card, now’s your chance to compare and score some of the best deals around. With capped interest rates at 3.00% per month and low flat fees on cash withdrawals, there are plenty of awesome options — each offering different overlimit…
15 March 2023
Is a Leasing Business for You? 7 Hard Truths You Need to Know
Business
Is a Leasing Business for You? 7 Hard Truths You Need to Know
Have you considered starting a leasing business, but you’re not sure if it’s for you? It can be tempting to jump into a new venture — after all, it’s a dream come true to be the boss and earn passive income. But before taking that leap, there are some hard truths about owning and operating…
15 March 2023
credit-card-interest-rates-and-fees-in-the-Philippines
Credit Card
Everything You Need to Know About Credit Card Rates in the Philippines 2023
Goodbye to the 2% credit card interest charge. If you’re an existing credit cardholder, chances are, you have already received a notification from your issuer about the interest rate adjustments. Yes, and it’s back to the 3% monthly interest rate. Banko Sentral ng Pilipinas has already released Circular No. 1165, which contains an advisory on…
1 March 2023
money saving tips for first-time moms
Saving
10 Money-Saving Tips for First-Time Moms
Are you looking for ways to balance your budget now that you have a baby? Navigating the financial aspects of parenthood can be tricky because, primarily, the baby’s expenses go beyond diapers and formula milk. You must consider your little one’s well-being and provide them everything they need, from clothing, food, toiletries, and checkups. It…
1 March 2023