Help & FAQ — Fintech SCB

Frequently asked questions

1Where can I start?

If you're new to finance, we recommend starting with the fundamental concepts. You don't need to be an expert to begin: understanding the basics is the first step toward making more informed decisions.

• Saving and money management
• Inflation and purchasing power
• Stocks and bonds
• Funds and ETFs
• Risk and return
• Diversification
• Financial markets
• Financial planning

2What does it mean to invest?

Investing means allocating part of your capital to financial or real assets with the goal of obtaining a return over time. Every investment involves a certain level of risk. In general, the higher the potential return, the greater the possibility of losing part of the capital.

3What is the difference between saving and investing?

Saving means setting money aside. Investing means using capital to purchase assets that can increase or decrease in value over time. The choice depends on personal goals, time horizon and ability to bear potential losses.

4What is financial risk?

Financial risk is the possibility that an investment produces a lower return than expected or a loss. Risk can depend, among other things, on:

• market performance
• economic conditions
• interest rates
• inflation
• currency
• the situation of the company or issuer
• liquidity of the investment

5Why is diversification important?

Diversification consists of spreading capital across different investments. The goal is to avoid a single asset's negative performance from compromising an excessively large portion of your wealth. Diversification does not eliminate risk, but it can help reduce it.

6What is an ETF?

An ETF (Exchange Traded Fund) is a financial instrument listed on an exchange that generally tracks the performance of an index, sector, commodity or other asset. ETFs can offer diversification and relatively low costs, but their value can still decrease.

7What are stocks?

Stocks represent a stake in a company's capital. By purchasing a stock, you may benefit from any increase in its value and, when applicable, dividend distributions. However, the price can decrease and the invested capital is not guaranteed.

8What are bonds?

Bonds are instruments through which an investor lends money to an issuer, such as a government or a company. In return, the investor normally receives interest and repayment of capital according to the bond's terms. Bonds also carry risks, including credit risk, interest rate risk and market risk.

9How much money should I invest?

There is no one-size-fits-all figure. Before investing, it is generally advisable to consider: available financial resources, future expenses and commitments, an emergency fund, goals, time horizon and ability to withstand potential losses. Money needed for essential short-term needs should not be invested.

10Can I lose all my capital?

It depends on the financial instrument. Some investments can suffer significant losses and, in certain circumstances, capital can be lost to a significant degree. That is why it is important to understand the characteristics and risks before investing.

11What is volatility?

Volatility measures how quickly and how widely the price of a financial asset can vary. A highly volatile market can experience significant swings even over short periods. High volatility does not necessarily mean a negative investment, but it generally implies greater uncertainty in the short term.

12How long should I hold an investment?

It depends on the investment and the goal. An investment should be evaluated in relation to your own time horizon and not solely on the basis of daily market fluctuations.

13How can I evaluate an investment?

Before investing it is useful to analyze at least: potential return, risk, costs, liquidity, time horizon, diversification, the economic and financial situation of the issuer, and any tax implications.

14Can I follow the markets without being a professional?

Yes. You can start by gradually understanding the main indicators: inflation, interest rates, GDP, unemployment, corporate earnings, valuations, the performance of major indices, exchange rates and commodities. The important thing is to distinguish general information from actual personalized financial advice.

15Does the information on this site constitute financial advice?

General information, articles, analysis and educational content do not necessarily constitute a personalized recommendation. Before making investment decisions, you need to assess your personal situation and, when appropriate, consult an authorized professional.

16How can I tell if an investment is right for me?

There is no universally suitable investment. The assessment should consider at least: financial goals, economic situation, assets, knowledge and experience, time horizon, and risk tolerance and capacity.

17Why do markets go up and down?

Markets continually reflect investor expectations. Among the main factors that can influence prices are:

• company results
• interest rates
• inflation
• monetary policy
• economic growth
• geopolitical events
• future expectations
• investor sentiment

18How can I protect myself from financial scams?

Be wary of anyone who promises:

• very high guaranteed returns
• quick and easy profits
• virtually no risk
• 'once in a lifetime' opportunities
• pressure to invest immediately

Always verify the identity of the intermediary, the necessary authorizations and the terms of the investment. Never share passwords, security codes or banking credentials.

19What should I do if I don't understand an investment?

Do not invest until you have understood at least how it works, how much it costs, what the risks are and how you could lose money. If something is not clear, asking for more information is always reasonable.

20Can I contact your team?

Yes. For questions about the content, services or how to use the site, you can use the Contact section. For specific requests regarding your personal financial situation, it is advisable to consult an authorized professional when required by applicable regulations.