I will teach you to be rich book

Summary of “I will teach you to be rich book – No Guilt, No Excuses, No BS, Just a 6-Week Program That Works”:

Authors Ramit Sethi and Michaël Ferrari provide a straightforward plan to boost your finances and make profitable investments in just six weeks. Their method combines American money practices without shame and French emphasis on savings.

They address common money attitudes: avoiding money matters out of guilt or obsessing over details without taking action. The authors argue that both approaches lead to no progress. They dismiss excuses like lack of education or fear of losing money.

According to them, the key to wealth is starting early and leveraging compound interest. They stress the importance of taking the first step and not overcomplicating things. The authors believe personal responsibility is crucial for financial success.

Their book aims to guide readers in creating a simple investment system rather than turning them into financial experts.

Review and summary of “I will teach you to be rich book – No Guilt, No Excuses, No BS, Just a 6-Week Program That Works“

But for the authors of “I will teach you”, both of these options achieve the same result, which is nothing.

Leave these discussions to the fools. […] Just as you don’t need to be a nutritionist to lose weight, you don’t need to be a financial specialist to become wealthy.

Why is it so difficult to manage money?

According to the authors of “I Will Teach You,” there are some clear reasons:

– Too much information can lead to confusion.

– Financial advice often comes from uninspiring sources, like traditional experts.

– Ramit Sethi and Michaël Ferrari see these as excuses rather than genuine issues.

Examples of excuses include: “School didn’t teach me this,” “Banks exploit us,” “I’m afraid of losing money,” “What if I can’t find extra income?”

Sethi and Ferrari emphasize that the key to getting rich is starting early and leveraging compound interest. Becoming wealthy is primarily about taking the initial step, without overcomplicating things. They assert that personal responsibility plays a major role in solving financial problems.

The main messages of “I will teach you to be rich book – 6 weeks to improve your finances”

– Starting is more important than becoming an expert.

– Making the right mistakes is crucial.

– Ordinary actions yield ordinary outcomes.

– Unconventional behavior leads to exceptional results.

– Appearance isn’t as important as profit.

– Investing is about making money, not looking good.

– Spend more on what you love, save on what you don’t.

The book focuses on managing bank accounts, budgeting, saving, and investing.

The authors’ approach helps you set up an automated financial system with minimal effort. This involves:

– Avoiding common errors.

– Taking immediate action.

– Defining your goals.

While this may not sound exciting, the authors emphasize that simple, long-term investments are most effective.

The “i will teach you to be rich book” 6-week program to enhance your financial skills includes:

– Week 1: Control spending and organize payment methods.

– Week 2: Open suitable bank accounts, negotiate fees, and utilize your banker.

– Week 3: Establish an investment account.

– Week 4: Monitor expenses and allocate money purposefully.

– Week 5: Automate your financial system.

– Week 6: Understand investing and maximize returns with minimal effort.

Becoming wealthy isn’t mysterious; it involves a few steps, discipline, and some effort.

Chapter 1 – Week One: Stop the flow of money out

1.1 – I will teach you to be rich book: The philosophy of money

According to Rami Sethi and Michaël Ferrari, the initial objective isn’t to amass wealth but to cultivate a mindset that values what you have. Wealth will follow. They believe that adopting a financial philosophy is as vital as having a life philosophy. These two philosophies are intertwined, with focus on the projects money can enable and the freedom it offers, rather than material possessions.

The money philosophy from “I will teach you to be rich book is founded on two key ideas:

– Having a money plan is essential.

– Challenges with finances stem from excuses, while success results from commitment and discipline.

While not glamorous, adhering to discipline is key for investing, saving, and asset management.

1.2 – Dispose of the standard package that the bank offers

Sethi and Ferrari suggest opting for personalized services over standard bank packages, which generally offer less value for money. These packages can cost on average 26% more than using individual services. Larger customers might benefit, but for most, individual services are more advantageous.

1.3 – You should no longer pay for your bank card

Rejecting bank card fees, even minimal ones, is advised by “I Will Teach You to Be Rich.” This small step helps regain control of finances and emphasizes personal control over financial situations.

1.4 – Change to online banks

Sethi and Ferrari strongly recommend considering online banking for its convenience, including quick online transactions and excellent services.

1.5 – Manage your store cards (called “loyalty cards”)

Store cards, also known as loyalty cards, carry high interest rates (19-21% annually). While they promise better service and choices, users tend to overspend and incur high interest. Cancelling such cards is suggested.

1.6 – Appeal to a mediator

For resolving bank issues, options include consulting a financial advisor, using consumer associations, or engaging the ombudsman. The latter offers the highest resolution rate.

1.8 – I will teach you to be rich book: Pay back your loans

Differentiating between good debt (with potential benefits) and bad debt (consumer expenses) is vital. Managing money wisely is key, and using credit for everyday items isn’t recommended.

The four steps to repay loans with the “I Will Teach You” system are:

– Assess your debt.

– Decide on repayment order (based on highest interest or smallest balance).

– Develop a repayment plan by cutting expenses and prioritizing loan payments.

– Begin the repayment process.

1.9 – Week 1: Overview to get started

Spend time examining your accounts and understanding bank charges (2 hours). Eliminate unnecessary expenses by phoning your branch manager to cancel “service packages.”

Remove all fees associated with using your bank card (1 hour).

Dispose of high-credit-limit loyalty cards (2 hours) to avoid substantial interest on purchases and break free from loyalty ties.

Repay as much credit as your budget allows (2 hours). Choose a repayment strategy and aim for substantial monthly payments.

Chapter 2 – Week 2: defeat the banks

Following the “I Will Teach You” approach, week two concentrates on configuring your bank account(s): select the right one(s), optimize their use, and avoid unnecessary fees.

2.1 – Advantages of Online Banking

The authors of “I Will Teach You” reveal that the average customer pays €147.19 annually in fees to traditional banks, compared to €39.21 for online banks. They assert that online banks offer easy management, client benefits, and minimal downsides, all while avoiding unnecessary fees.

2.2 – Understanding Bank Operations

The Current Account

This account receives all your income, distributing it to appropriate accounts (savings and investments) regularly through automated transfers.

The Savings Account

Considered for short- to medium-term investments (up to five years).

Differentiate between current and savings accounts.

Use a savings account for specific financial goals.

Manage money more effectively by maintaining both types of accounts.

Optimize Bank Setup

Study different bank options based on:

– Account types.

– Trustworthiness.

– Practicality.

– Financial aspects.

Maximize your accounts to avoid fees and unreasonable terms.

Negotiate to waive monthly fees for current, savings, overdraft, or new accounts.

2.3 – Week 2: Action Checklist

Examine or open a current account aligned with your needs, ensuring it’s fee-free and has no minimum requirements (1 hour). Negotiate fee removal if necessary.

Open an online savings account (3 hours) to save on fees and increase interest earnings.

Optional: Open an online current account (2 hours) for reduced fees and easy financial transactions.

Deposit a month and a half’s worth of expenses into your online savings account (1 hour).

Transfer remaining funds to your savings account (even if it’s a small amount).

Chapter 3 – Week 3: Get ready to Invest

3.1-The three categories of people in personal finance

“I Will Teach You” identifies three groups in personal finance:

The “active”: Optimize existing practices.

The “open”: Seek advice without taking significant action.

The “no hopers”: Find excuses to delay decisions.

3.2 – Become wealthy bit by bit

Becoming wealthy isn’t complex but requires discipline. History shows most millionaires spend less than they earn and invest in their businesses. Investments are a reliable path to wealth.

3.3 – The stock market: an attractive market opportunity

Access to the stock market isn’t exclusive to the wealthy; online banks offer favorable terms. Two main investment approaches exist:

Capital gains: Buy undervalued stocks and sell at a profit.

Dividend investments: Seek regular income from investments.

3.4 – The personal finance progression scale

Follow these five steps systematically according to “I Will Teach You”:

Pay off debts actively.

Adjust living expenses to income.

Build emergency savings.

Utilize “assisted” investments (ISA, life insurance, Company Savings Plan, Perco).

Invest.

3.5 – Assisted placements

ISA: Invest in the stock market with this securities account.

Life Insurance: Two contract types available: single unit-linked or multi unit-linked.

PEE (or PEG): Encourages employee investment with covered costs and tax advantages upon withdrawal.

PERCO: A group retirement savings plan for retirement supplements.

3.6 – Week 3: Summary to start off

Secure emergency savings (1 hour), ideally equal to six months’ income (in a long-term or Instant savings account). Determine monthly savings for this account as a priority.

Open an investment account (3 hours): Choose from ISA, PEA, life insurance, or Perco.

Chapter 4 – I will teach you to be rich book – Spend smarter

In this chapter, “I Will Teach You” proposes creating an intelligent spending plan. This is founded on consistent monthly savings and investments while allocating remaining funds for personal enjoyment.

4.1 – Spend on things that make you feel good

Sethi and Ferrar stress the importance of having a frugal mindset to amass wealth, but not by sacrificing all expenses. Being thrifty doesn’t mean eliminating everything enjoyable from life. Thriftiness involves prioritizing spending on things you genuinely care about and cutting back on the rest.

Identify what matters to you and allocate your money accordingly.

4.2-Your smart spending plan

An effective spending plan comprises four components:

Fixed Expenses

The book recommends using a spreadsheet to record all monthly fixed expenses. Add 15% to account for forgotten costs.

Long-Term Investments

This covers monthly investments in Company Pension Schemes/Perco, life insurance, and ISAs. Aim to invest 15% of your post-tax salary for the long term.

Savings

This category should cover short-term, medium-term, and, most importantly, long-term savings goals. Distinguish between savings and investment objectives.

Guilt-Free Spending

This money is reserved for personal enjoyment, without feeling guilty about it.

4.3 – Make the most of your smart spending plan

In many cases, 80% of excessive spending is tied to only 20% of purchases. To make the most of your intelligent spending plan, the authors offer three suggestions:

Set achievable goals.

Allocate savings to specific purposes and accounts.

Change your perspective: view saved money not as a small amount but as a step toward a larger goal.

Implement the envelope system for budget adherence. Set monthly targets for categories (e.g., $200 for groceries, $150 for restaurants) and allocate funds into envelopes. Once the envelopes are empty, your budget for that category is spent.

4.4 – What if I don’t make enough money?

For some, implementing a workable intelligent spending plan might seem unrealistic due to personal financial situations. While it may be the case for some, it’s true that many struggle to adjust spending habits on a day-to-day basis.

In such scenarios, this plan can serve as a practical theoretical guide, and the focus shifts to finding ways to increase income. The authors offer three strategies for earning more money:

– Negotiate a raise based on showcasing your value to your employer.

– Pursue a higher-paying job if your current position lacks advancement prospects.

– Supplement your income, particularly applicable for freelancers or the self-employed.

4.5 – Stick with your expenditure plan and be prepared for the unexpected

Once you’ve established your fitting intelligent spending plan, it’s time to put it into action.

Prioritize tracking your expenses weekly (around 30 minutes each Sunday).

Be prepared for unexpected costs:

Predictable irregular expenses can be planned for by saving.

Unforeseen scenarios: Allocate 15% extra to your fixed expense estimate.

Windfalls: Enjoy a portion of unexpected income (about 50%), and invest the rest.

An approach combining a solid plan with a buffer for the unexpected is the most effective.

4.6 – Week 4: Summary to put things in motion

Analyze your monthly expenses and outline your intelligent spending plan (30 minutes). Distribute your income into four parts: “Fixed Expenses” (50-60%), “Long-Term Investments” (10%), “Savings Goals” (5-10%), and “Personal Enjoyment” (20-35%).

Trim your expenses whenever possible (2 hours), scrutinizing your monthly fixed costs and considering the à la carte method.

Target specific problematic areas (5 hours) and employ the envelope system for budget control.

Consistently adhere to your sensible spending plan (1 hour/week), ensuring it remains sustainable in the long run.

Chapter 5 – Week 5: Save money when you’re asleep

The approach to managing your finances is akin to handling your career: investing a little effort upfront saves you from hefty investments later. This concept aligns with the “Do more before you do less” curve principle.

In essence, the authors of “I Will Teach You” propose that dedicating some initial time to research the money management system leads to long-term time savings. This is because your cash flow becomes automated, with incoming funds automatically channeled to the appropriate accounts within your plan.

5.1 – Create your own automated cash flow

Effective money management necessitates automation. To establish this, the following steps are vital:

Interconnect all your accounts.

Arrange scheduled transfers between accounts and select suitable dates.

Aligning bill payments concurrently addresses the time gap between bill due dates and incoming cash.

Move away from manual involvement. Once your accounts are set to function smoothly and autonomously, monthly reviews ensure proper functioning. Most banks offer tools, like email notifications for low balances, to facilitate this process.

Adapt the system to specific situations. Certain scenarios may require adjustments to your spending and saving (e.g., bi-monthly paychecks).

5.2 – Week 5: Summary for action

Centralize all your accounts (1 hour) for interconnectedness.

Implement your automated cash flow system (5 hours) by establishing core components: Scheduled transfers. Adjust debit dates to synchronize with bill cycles.

Chapter 6 – The Myth of Financial Expertise

Attaining wealth is within individual control, not confined to a select group of experts.

Sethi and Ferrari emphasize that financial prosperity hinges on how much one saves and adheres to a savvy spending plan.

You, not advisors, intricate investment strategies, or market conditions, hold the reins of your wealth. This underscores personal control over financial destiny.

6.1 – The myth of the financial expert

Experts can’t predict market behavior. The erratic nature of financial markets defies precise prediction, yet TV pundits persistently offer inflated forecasts that often lack accountability, whether accurate or not. These expert predictions should be disregarded.

The authors contend that when assessing a specific fund, examining its history over a decade or more provides insight. However, historical performance doesn’t guarantee future outcomes.

Using examples, Sethi and Ferrari reveal that “specialists” often err, fail to surpass the market, and frequently omit their actual performance data. Only three legendary investors – Warren Buffett, Peter Lynch (of Fidelity), and David Swensen (of Yale) – consistently exhibit true investment acumen in the authors’ view.

6.2 – In the majority of cases, financial advisors are a waste of time

For most individuals, a financial advisor isn’t essential. Sethi and Ferrari contend that self-directed efforts can lead to successful outcomes.

Their stance is that only those with intricate financial scenarios, like sizable inheritances or time constraints, may benefit from advisors. It’s better to invest a modest sum and begin than to do nothing.

To ensure advisor credibility, the authors suggest verifying membership in approved professional associations under the relevant Financial Markets Authority (FMA) – they provide the appropriate contact email.

6.3 – Active versus passive management

Active management (pooled funds) and passive management (index funds) differ primarily in cost: index funds, lacking human intervention, are more cost-effective than pooled funds.

Chapter 7 – Investments are not just for those who are wealthy

7.1 – Identify your type of investment profile

Selecting the right investment fund hinges on understanding your investment goals. To facilitate this, Sethi and Ferrari propose a series of self-reflective questions:

Are you seeking short-term gains or are you comfortable with a longer capital-building period?

Is saving for a new home a priority?

Do market fluctuations concern you or can you withstand them?

The authors recommend starting with straightforward investments and gradually building a manageable portfolio.

7.2 – Invest wisely, invest automatically

Maximizing returns while minimizing time investment is achievable through the combination of cost-efficient investments and automation, according to Sethi and Ferrari. Despite the perception, automated investments remain effective for two reasons: cost-effectiveness and automation.

7.3 – Investments are not related to which stocks you opt for

The organization of investments outweighs the specific investments themselves. Asset allocation, involving structuring investments across stocks, bonds, and cash, holds the most significant influence and control.

7.4 – Basis of investment

The authors delineate various investment options in a pyramid:

Stocks:

Ownership shares in companies.

Stock market – e.g., CAC 40, a collection of 40 large-cap stocks.

Emphasize diversified funds over individual stocks for risk reduction and portfolio balance.

Bonds:

Debt issued by corporations or governments.

Bonds yield predictable returns over time.

Common among wealthier or older investors for stable, lower-risk returns.

Cash:

Uninvested money, earning interest in regulated savings accounts.

Cash provides security but offers the lowest returns.

Typically the third component in a portfolio after stocks and bonds.

7.5 – The allocation of assets provides more than 90% of your returns

Sethi and Ferrari stress diversification across asset types, such as stocks and bonds. Single-asset investments carry elevated risk; returns correlate with risk.

The authors caution against an all-stock approach, despite their high returns. Bonds counterbalance stock volatility, reducing overall investment risk.

7.6 – Diversify your portfolio: the different varieties of stocks and bonds

Diversification remains paramount. The authors recommend investing across various types of stocks and bonds, sub-dividing investments for a balanced portfolio.

7.7-Mutual funds: okay, practical, but sometimes expensive and unreliable

Mutual funds pool multiple investments, offering diversification without individual stock selection. Despite convenience, annual fees can be high and their calculation questionable.

Mutual funds offer practicality but at a cost, making them less optimal for investors.

7.8 – Trackers: the handsome cousin of a loathsome family

Index funds replicate market performance using computer-managed portfolios. They are low-cost, require less time, and offer a more controlled investment structure.

While index funds need occasional adjustments, they outperform direct stocks or mutual funds in terms of efficiency.

7.9 – Life insurance: easy to invest in

Modern life insurance serves as an investment tool. It offers variety, control, low cost, and tax advantages.

Monitoring and some time investment are necessary, especially if not opting for the euro fund.

7.10 – Swensen’s asset allocation system

To create a balanced portfolio based on the Swensen model

Sethi and Ferrari emphasize the importance of establishing a balanced asset allocation for a robust portfolio rather than focusing solely on high-performing stocks. They advocate the adoption of David Swensen’s asset allocation system, which aims to create a well-rounded and resilient portfolio.

While Swensen’s method involves complex calculations, its core principle is preventing any single stock from dominating the portfolio.

Tips for Selecting Index Funds

To construct a well-balanced portfolio, investors need to choose suitable index funds. Sethi and Ferrari provide valuable guidance for this process:

Start with reputable firms like Lyxor, EasyETF, and Amundi ETF.

Utilize search engines such as etrade.com, boursorama.com, or boursier.com to assess fund costs, fees, and holdings.

Opt for funds with minimal management fees (around 0.2%).

For those with limited initial funds, investing incrementally in different funds is recommended. Establish a target amount for each fund and progressively allocate capital.

7.11 – Week 6: review of the steps required to move forward

Clarify your investment style (30 minutes), favoring life insurance with a euro fund or an index fund.

Conduct weekly fund research (3 hours), exploring options like Lyxor, EasyETF, and Amundi ETF for index funds or implementing the Swensen system for a customized portfolio.

Invest in chosen funds (1 hour weekly). Easily invest in life insurance policies or gradually accumulate funds for index investments.

Chapter 8 – I will teach you to be rich book – Remain faithful to your system

8.1 – Keep your system fuelled

Sethi and Ferrari suggest assessing the value of investments in terms of monthly contributions to maintain consistent growth. Online tools can assist in this evaluation.

8.2 – Ignore the background noise

Resist frequent logins to investment accounts. Adhere to your strategy, disregarding external opinions and distractions.

8.3 – Adjust your investments

For self-managed investments, recalibrate every 12 to 18 months to maintain a balanced portfolio. Avoid excessive allocation to any specific sector, ensuring stable asset distribution.

8.4 – Don’t worry about taxes

Authors advise against letting excessive concern about taxes dictate investment decisions. Focus on tax-advantaged investment options like life insurance, ISAs, company pensions, and Perco.

8.5 – Know when to sell your investments

Authors recommend selling assets under three circumstances:

Immediate financial need.

When certain assets continuously underperform the market, thorough research is needed.

Achievement of primary investment goals.

8.6 – Give: get rid of your goals from your daily routine

Authors propose seeking advice from individuals slightly older who have managed investments for years. Adopt their suggestions, like creating backup savings and planning for children’s education, to shape your strategy.

Chapter 9 – I will teach you to be rich book- A Rich Life

9.1-Student loans: should you pay them off or invest?

Sethi and Ferrari present three options regarding student loans:

Pay the minimum monthly and invest the remainder.

Pay off a significant portion of the loan before investing.

Adopt a 50/50 strategy—half toward loan repayment and half into investments.

Interest rates predominantly drive the decision-making process. If the student loan bears a low interest rate, say 3%, it may be wiser to invest in low-cost funds with potential 8% returns. If debt anxiety is a concern, rapid repayment could be considered. The authors find the third option, combining repayment and investment, appealing.

9.2 – Love and money

Sethi and Ferrari address financial and romantic concerns, offering insights on:

Personal Responsibility: Trust your parents’ advice but make the final decisions yourself.

Partner Planning: Initiate conversations about financial matters with your partner and collaborate on managing finances, setting short and long-term goals.

Income Disparity: Propose equal bill splitting or proportional expense sharing based on income.

Wedding Expenses: Plan your wedding costs meticulously to avoid unnecessary debt.

9.3 – Work and money

The authors delve into negotiation strategies for achieving salary goals, highlighting the “Rich Mind” approach:

Nine Key Negotiation Rules:

Understand that your worth must be demonstrated through contributions to the company’s success.
Leverage competitive job offers to enhance your reputation within the current organization.
Prioritize preparation, connecting with business contacts, and determining reasonable compensation expectations.
Equip yourself with negotiation techniques and responses, including showcasing achievements and skills.
Engage in comprehensive discussions about the job, beyond just salary, to reach mutually beneficial agreements.
Focus on cooperation, not confrontation, to ensure a positive negotiation process.
Employ a professional and friendly demeanor, and practice negotiation skills beforehand.
Offer alternatives when facing resistance, such as proposing future negotiations based on performance.
Avoid revealing current salary, making the first offer, and asking loaded questions.

Lastly, if a raise is granted, Sethi and Ferrari advise celebrating while making prudent decisions to enhance financial well-being.

9.4 – How to save thousands of euros on major purchases

Sethi and Ferrari revisit the strategic approach for significant purchases such as cars and homes.

Buying a Car

The authors outline a four-step process for car purchases:

– Determine your budget.

– Select the car.

– Negotiate assertively.

– Maintain and service your vehicle.

Additional Considerations:

– Calculate overall car ownership costs.

– Opt for a vehicle you can keep for at least a decade.

– Consult magazines and specialized websites for informed choices.

Avoid:

– Long-term rentals.

– Selling your car within seven years.

– Exceeding your budget.

For advantageous car buying, timing matters, like purchasing at the year’s or quarter’s end when sellers are motivated to meet quotas.

Buying a Home

Sethi and Ferrari emphasize the importance of strategic decision-making when considering home purchases:

Purchasing property should be reserved for cases of stable finances and prolonged residence in the same area.

Real estate is not the optimal investment choice, given risk and comparatively low returns.

To determine whether renting or buying is more favorable, use online calculators that consider factors like maintenance, appreciation, inflation, and more.

Homeownership Recommendations:

20% down payment.

A 20-year fixed-rate mortgage.

Monthly payments no higher than 30% of gross income.

If not feasible, wait until such financial parameters can be met.

Additional assistance features (subsidies, low-interest loans) may be advantageous.

Beware of myths related to property investment.

Approach Your Next Major Purchase:

Estimate the cost over a 10-year span.

Prioritize needs.

Implement automated savings plans.

Foster a prosperous life for yourself and those around you.

Sethi and Ferrari underscore that true wealth encompasses more than monetary value:

A wealthy life goes beyond finances. It extends from how you manage your money to how you contribute to others.

Conclusion of “I will teach you to be rich book” by Ramit Sethi and Michaël Ferrari

I will teach you to be rich book presents accessible and comprehensive guidance on personal finance, catering to various levels of readers. The book covers fundamental budget management strategies, gradually delving into investment concepts and the “85% solution.”

Part 1: Building Foundational Financial Basics

The initial section appears to reiterate basic financial management concepts, such as timely bill payments and use of accounts, possibly redundant for some readers. Yet, these foundational aspects are crucial for individuals with limited knowledge.

Part 2: Practical Approaches to Technical Financial Aspects

In the subsequent part, the book delves into technical elements of investments and strategy. The proposed approach is practical and easy to grasp, allowing immediate application without needing financial expertise. The book’s visual aids enhance understanding.

Balancing Realistic Financial Improvement

The book’s title might mislead readers to expect quick fortune creation or millionaire status. However, it focuses more on the gradual process of financial betterment, promoting sensible measures involving discipline, patience, and proactive engagement.

Practicality and User-Friendly Presentation

“I Will Teach You to Be Rich” avoids magic formulas and instead provides a clear, actionable plan that combines common sense, discipline, and practicality. The book’s realistic approach dismisses sensational promises of miracles.