Search found 2511 matches

by Ketawa
Fri Feb 09, 2024 5:31 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: [Don't use Google Voice for two-factor authentication]
Replies: 81
Views: 6209

Re: Google Voice for 2FA verification can be easily hacked

warner25 wrote: Fri Feb 09, 2024 4:31 pm I understand that email access wouldn't directly yield the TOTP codes, but could the attacker not use email access as a starting point to get there with several intermediate steps? Like reset the Authy account password, setup Authy on a new device, etc.?
Authy doesn't have username/password log in; it's tied to your phone number. You can turn on or off the ability to add new devices. If it's off, the only way to turn it on is using a previously authenticated device.
by Ketawa
Fri Feb 09, 2024 1:18 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: [Don't use Google Voice for two-factor authentication]
Replies: 81
Views: 6209

Re: Google Voice for 2FA verification can be easily hacked

People are mostly missing the point in their replies on this thread. In my mind, there are two main issues with using Google Voice for 2FA. 1. Compromise of an email account also results in compromise of both factors for authentication, password and SMS-based codes, if the same email account is used for account login. Password is compromised by the ability to conduct a password reset, and the second factor (codes sent to Google Voice) is also compromised. 2. An attacker can access new SMS codes without access to a physical device. Security professionals caution against using SMS-based 2FA/MFA anyway due to the ease of attackers using techniques like SIM swapping. If possible, TOTP codes (which Authy is used to store) or a security token lik...
by Ketawa
Wed Feb 07, 2024 3:14 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: What's Your Credit Card Rewards Strategy?
Replies: 7203
Views: 1413769

Re: Best place to Roll Over Amex points

This may not be your preferred option, but I would get the Amex Schwab Platinum card and cash them out at 1.1 cents each. This requires opening a Schwab brokerage account. The Schwab Platinum card also currently has a signup bonus of 80K points after $8K in spending over 6 months, slightly higher than the normal 60K points. https://www.schwab.com/credit-cards
by Ketawa
Mon Jan 08, 2024 3:50 pm
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: I-Bonds worth it if you have the G-Fund?
Replies: 11
Views: 1730

Re: I-Bonds worth it if you have the G-Fund?

If you are not maxing out your TSP contributions, I would prioritize that over investing in I Bonds. Are you already doing this? If you are already maxing out your TSP contributions, and your asset allocation calls for an investment in short-term bonds, the appropriate comparison is between: - I Bonds in sort-of-/maybe-taxable, plus equities in the TSP - equities in taxable, plus G Fund in the TSP Between these, I would probably still pick the G Fund. It makes a nominal yield that is comparable to intermediate-term Treasuries. These are currently priced to make about 1.8% real, which beats I Bonds. This also has the advantage of giving you more flexibility in equity funds, since the TSP options are subpar no matter what your asset allocatio...
by Ketawa
Fri Nov 24, 2023 8:30 am
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Sold All Bond Funds to follow Individual Treasury Ladder Strategy
Replies: 99
Views: 9614

Re: Sold All Bond Funds to follow Individual Treasury Ladder Strategy

I understand that individual treasuries drop in price just as funds drop in price due to interest rate increases. The point is that I hold to maturity so that I am guaranteed the principal back plus interest so any loss is not realized unless I sell before maturity. Treasury ladders are safer because I am guaranteed the principal if held to maturity. The fact that it's treasury only and shorter duration are secondary reasons for building the ladder. If interest rates on 10 year treasuries rise from 5% to 6% by the time the one year rung has matured and is ready to be reinvested, I will buy the next 10 year treasury note at 6% after receiving full principal and interest from the maturing treasury. My point is that if you hold to maturity, y...
by Ketawa
Sun Nov 05, 2023 2:26 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: What's Your Credit Card Rewards Strategy?
Replies: 7203
Views: 1413769

Re: What's Your Credit Card Rewards Strategy?

Do_Nothing wrote: Sat Nov 04, 2023 4:31 am Thanks for the recommendation. I usually scoff at any card with an annual fee, but this one is actually legit with rewards that would benefit me.

The $400 fee is mostly comped with the $325 annual restaurant and travel credits making the fee essentially only $75/year, and the flat 3% back on Apple Pay is very enticing. I'm not quite ready to pull the trigger and make a commitment to one card just yet, but when I am I am going to give this one some serious consideration.
The points for the U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve card are worth 1.5 cents when redeemed to offset travel expenses using Real-Time Rewards. This makes it effectively 4.5% cash back for all purchases made using tap to pay.
by Ketawa
Sat Oct 28, 2023 9:27 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Improving the TSP [for current participants]
Replies: 587
Views: 92374

Re: Improving the TSP [for current participants]

jxs81 wrote: Sat Oct 28, 2023 9:18 am Has anyone figured out a way to see the Roth balance of each fund? Obviously they need to track the Roth and traditional balances separately, but why don't they make it easy for us to see it :confused ?

jxs81
I don't think there's a way to see the exact amount, but it's easy to calculate it yourself by taking the percentage of Traditional or Roth for your account and applying it to the total balance in each fund.
by Ketawa
Fri Apr 28, 2023 6:47 pm
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: I Bonds Mega Thread (I Bond Heads Rejoice!)
Replies: 6651
Views: 1203703

Re: I Bonds Mega Thread (I Bond Heads Rejoice!)

GreendaleCC wrote: Fri Apr 28, 2023 6:34 pm
Fpdesignco wrote: Fri Apr 28, 2023 6:27 pm
LK2012 wrote: Fri Apr 28, 2023 6:06 pm
rockstar wrote: Fri Apr 28, 2023 3:33 pm
LK2012 wrote: Fri Apr 28, 2023 3:25 pm FYI, not only did Treasury Direct post the May 2023 Fixed Rate early (!!!), but ... the site says that they will soon be retiring the virtual keyboard.

Somebody is sprucing things up over there.
I like the virtual keyboard.
I like it too
:oops:
The virtual keyboard is the worst.
TFB explains how to eliminate the virtual keyboard (enables both copy/paste and typing) at this link: https://thefinancebuff.com/password-man ... irect.html
by Ketawa
Fri Apr 28, 2023 8:13 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: What's Your Credit Card Rewards Strategy?
Replies: 7203
Views: 1413769

Re: What's Your Credit Card Rewards Strategy?

The four best cash back cards that I’ve been able to find with no gimmicks are Pen Fed Cash Rewards, American Express Preferred, Uber, and Citibank Double Cash. When I say no gimmicks, I mean no rotating categories or limited time offers. With these cards and just my spending, I can get about $750 a year back above and beyond the annual fee for the American Express card. *Pen Fed- 6% back on gas, no foreign transaction fee, no annual fee *American Express- 5% on groceries and 2% on everything else, $90 annual fee *Uber- 4% on restaurants and 3% on travel, no annual fee *Citibank- 2% on everything once you pay the bill, no annual fee I like all of these. Since I use Amazon Prime and I do Wal-Mart grocery orders online and pickup at the stor...
by Ketawa
Wed Apr 26, 2023 11:15 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: What's Your Credit Card Rewards Strategy?
Replies: 7203
Views: 1413769

Re: What's Your Credit Card Rewards Strategy?

EnjoyIt wrote: Wed Apr 26, 2023 9:25 am The other question is. How often should I try again and is there any harm applying daily for example?
Nobody knows. I tried applying for the Amex Delta Reserve card 8 times in 2021-2022, and I was stuck in popup jail the entire time. At the time, I used a couple of my cards extensively, but otherwise only charged a small amount to some Platinum cards for the Digital Entertainment Credit, and almost never used a couple other cards. Since then, I've been charging at least a small amount to all 9 of my Amex cards every statement cycle to see if I can get out of jail. I haven't had an opportunity yet to test whether it worked.
by Ketawa
Sat Apr 22, 2023 9:01 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: What's Your Credit Card Rewards Strategy?
Replies: 7203
Views: 1413769

Re: What's Your Credit Card Rewards Strategy?

kojima wrote: Sat Apr 22, 2023 3:50 pm Do you have a strategy in closing cards? I have around 15 open Chase CC's with only around 4 having annual fees. I technically do not need to close it since I'm still below the 50% of my income for my credit limit.
Generally, whatever offers the least long-term value.
by Ketawa
Sat Apr 22, 2023 3:45 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: What's Your Credit Card Rewards Strategy?
Replies: 7203
Views: 1413769

Re: What's Your Credit Card Rewards Strategy?

For those who have been churning credit cards for a while now and have over 15 different cards, do you ever close any of your credit cards? If someone has 15 credit cards and majority of them are no annual fee cards with low credit limit, is there really a point in closing them? Or would certain banks such as Chase use it against you when trying to open new cards with them and put you at risk of a shutdown? My understanding is that closing cards should be a last resort when the specific card requires you to not have that card when trying to receive the sign up bonus. I regularly close cards. Occasionally, I've been denied for cards with one of the cited reasons being too many revolving accounts or too much revolving available credit. I'm i...
by Ketawa
Wed Apr 19, 2023 8:34 am
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: Long Term Treasury (VGLT) vs. Ext Duration Treasury (EDV)
Replies: 38
Views: 5713

Re: Long Term Treasury (VGLT) vs. Ext Duration Treasury (EDV)

Why do bond funds, whos bonds are being bought and sold regularly as rates change, have similar price risk and reinvestment risk to individual bonds of the same duration? There is little meaningful distinction between a basket of bonds in a fund and holding individual bonds. One can achieve similar outcomes in terms of total return, targeting a specific risk/return profile, etc regardless of whether the bonds are held in a fund or individually, especially when the investment being discussed is Treasuries which do not have diversifiable risk (vs corporates). Holding individual bonds to maturity without rolling them over can be approximated by holding two bond funds and rebalancing to achieve the desired duration. https://www.bogleheads.org/...
by Ketawa
Wed Apr 19, 2023 8:27 am
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: Long Term Treasury (VGLT) vs. Ext Duration Treasury (EDV)
Replies: 38
Views: 5713

Re: Long Term Treasury (VGLT) vs. Ext Duration Treasury (EDV)

Thanks, makes sense. G funds price doesnt move when interest rates move... so it's like a 0 duration bond fund in terms of price risk... Is it also like a 1 month duration bond in terms of reinvestment risk then? I'm trying to understand the break-even point at which it's reinvestment risk is compensated for by it's bonus yield. Interest rates go down, and a the start of the next month the entire principal is "reinvested" at the new rates... but it's reinvested at the 9 year rates, not the 30-day rates. I think you're overthinking this. You could say that the duration for reinvestment risk varies from 1 to 31 days depending on how many days are remaining in the current month, averaging to half a month, but this doesn't really mat...
by Ketawa
Tue Apr 18, 2023 5:16 pm
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: First 20% of bonds in long-term Treasuries
Replies: 2259
Views: 266995

Re: First 20% of bonds in long-term Treasuries

CletusCaddy wrote: Tue Apr 18, 2023 4:58 pm
Ketawa wrote: Tue Apr 18, 2023 4:36 pm The two-bond-fund portfolio (not really a ladder) is used to manage overall fixed income duration. If an investor starts by holding EDV, then manages their fixed income investments so that their investment horizon matches their overall fixed income duration, they will indeed lock in those coupon payments (or total return).
So essentially, everyone responding to my thread below was wrong?

viewtopic.php?t=400796
Everyone who responded saying that the only way to lock in a return is with individual bonds is, at the very least, failing to provide the appropriate context. This is well established: https://www.bogleheads.org/wiki/Individ ... _bond_fund
by Ketawa
Tue Apr 18, 2023 4:36 pm
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: First 20% of bonds in long-term Treasuries
Replies: 2259
Views: 266995

Re: First 20% of bonds in long-term Treasuries

It's not irrelevant. That's the reality you need to face *if you want to lock-in the coupon payment* as the above poster claimed. Constructing two-bond-fund ladder is actually irrelevant because that diverges away from the goal of locking in coupon payments upfront. The need to potentially wait 2d - 1 years to recover from losses in a bond fund applies only because it is constantly rolling bonds to have a duration of d. In other words, it only applies if an investor is not actually following the advice in this thread, and instead holds a bond fund indefinitely without managing the duration of their fixed income investments. The two-bond-fund portfolio (not really a ladder) is used to manage overall fixed income duration. If an investor sta...
by Ketawa
Tue Apr 18, 2023 4:22 pm
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: First 20% of bonds in long-term Treasuries
Replies: 2259
Views: 266995

Re: First 20% of bonds in long-term Treasuries

Marseille07 wrote: Tue Apr 18, 2023 4:17 pm I literally mentioned that 2d - 1 is the max, not the norm. I rest my case. Please take your case elsewhere. While I understand what's being talked about in this thread, you don't understand what I'm saying.
I understand what you are saying about 2d - 1 being the max recovery time for a bond fund that has losses. I agree! It's irrelevant to this discussion.
by Ketawa
Tue Apr 18, 2023 4:14 pm
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: First 20% of bonds in long-term Treasuries
Replies: 2259
Views: 266995

Re: First 20% of bonds in long-term Treasuries

You keep repeating that it takes (2d - 1) years to recover losses in a bond fund. This is a red herring and is not true for the portfolio construction that is advocated for in this thread, which is to match duration to the investment horizon, typically by using a weighted average of two bond funds. Not sure what you're arguing. First, it is true that 2d - 1 *can be* the max recovery time for a bond fund. Nowhere did I say that's always the case, and I will give you that it is likely shorter than 2d - 1. Second, two bond funds duration matched is not holding TLT. That's a strawman response. My point is that repeated references to needing to hold a LTT fund for (2d - 1) to recover some losses is completely irrelevant. It doesn't matter what ...
by Ketawa
Tue Apr 18, 2023 4:09 pm
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: Long Term Treasury (VGLT) vs. Ext Duration Treasury (EDV)
Replies: 38
Views: 5713

Re: Long Term Treasury (VGLT) vs. Ext Duration Treasury (EDV)

To your first, I'm exposed to reinvestment risk when my bond duration is shorter than my investment horizon (thinking aloud)... but that is because shorter duration bonds have smaller yield increases as interest rates rise (generally, except while the curve is inverted) than their longer duration counterparts, right? So those longer duration bonds have comparably less reinvestment risk. And in this scenario, G funds rate resets every month, taking advantage of yields equivalent to 9 year duration bonds. So while it is not correct to say it has a 9 year duration (perhaps a 9 year effective maturity), my thought was that it has the equivalent amount of reinvestment risk to a bond fund with a 9 year avg duration. So yes I'd be stuck w/ a lowe...
by Ketawa
Tue Apr 18, 2023 12:33 pm
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: Long Term Treasury (VGLT) vs. Ext Duration Treasury (EDV)
Replies: 38
Views: 5713

Re: Long Term Treasury (VGLT) vs. Ext Duration Treasury (EDV)

As far as I am concerned, there is only one measure of duration. I've seen duration defined in two ways: MCauley duration: a measure of the average (cash-weighted) term-to-maturity of a bond. Modified duration: a measure of the price sensitivity of a bond to interest rate movements. But I agree that typically, a bond/bond fund only has one duration. But G is unique in that it has zero price risk, but it pays at a rate equivalent to a 9 year duration bond. I was talking through it with Beensabu, trying to understand how to account for it in my avg duration, and this is how we came to this conclusion: There are two components of interest rate risk to worry about, price risk and reinvestment risk. The price side is the component that im expos...
by Ketawa
Tue Apr 18, 2023 12:22 pm
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: First 20% of bonds in long-term Treasuries
Replies: 2259
Views: 266995

Re: First 20% of bonds in long-term Treasuries

Marseille07 wrote: Mon Apr 17, 2023 10:54 am No, I already demonstrated that TLT lost 30% last year. While what's "safe" is subjective, calling -30% "safe" is ridiculous. I don't care if TLT is guaranteed to recover within 35 years (2d - 1).
You keep repeating that it takes (2d - 1) years to recover losses in a bond fund. This is a red herring and is not true for the portfolio construction that is advocated for in this thread, which is to match duration to the investment horizon, typically by using a weighted average of two bond funds.
by Ketawa
Thu Apr 13, 2023 3:15 pm
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: Long Term Treasury (VGLT) vs. Ext Duration Treasury (EDV)
Replies: 38
Views: 5713

Re: Long Term Treasury (VGLT) vs. Ext Duration Treasury (EDV)

Because much of the return from long term bonds that pay a coupon comes in coupon payments and reinvesting those coupons at future prevailing interest rates, they are less exposed to changes in interest rates than a zero coupon bond, and their duration is much less than their maturity. VGLT holds regular bonds that pay a coupon, so its duration is lower than EDV. But doesnt EDV have to reinvest by buying more STRIPS as old ones mature anyway? Im having a hard time seeing how the added sensitivity to interest rates are not just an artifact of it's longer effective duration. Or maybe Im saying the same thing you are. I would think that actually they'd respond a little slower to interest rate changes, but also in higher magnitude than VGLT. C...
by Ketawa
Thu Apr 06, 2023 11:54 am
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Extend Duration from Zero (G Fund) to Intermediate Term (G Fund/LT Treasury ETF)?
Replies: 16
Views: 1704

Re: Extend Duration from Zero (G Fund) to Intermediate Term (G Fund/LT Treasury ETF)?

At this point, I'm somewhat leaning towards EDV as the ideal vehicle, but unsure if I'll go through with the change. There's a part of me that thinks it would be "fun" to do. There's also a side benefit that EDV is more efficient than equities in my tax-adjusted asset allocation calculation; effective tax rate of 10% for EDV vs 18% for VT, which effectively means I have a larger tax-adjusted portfolio. Regardless, it probably won't make much of a difference if the duration of my fixed income holdings increases to 5-10 years, representing 3-6% of my portfolio. Wondering what you went with? My situation is similar (not sure how far out from retirement you are, Im about 20 years). I was considering moving all bonds to G, but after g...
by Ketawa
Wed Mar 22, 2023 9:36 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: What's Your Credit Card Rewards Strategy?
Replies: 7203
Views: 1413769

Re: What's Your Credit Card Rewards Strategy?

EnjoyIt wrote: Wed Mar 22, 2023 9:33 am
Ketawa wrote: Wed Mar 22, 2023 8:52 am
EnjoyIt wrote: Wed Mar 22, 2023 8:48 am Not much different than other Amex platinum except you can transfer the points to cash at Schwab at 1.25 cents per point. Also they decrease the cost of the card by $100 if you have $250k at Schwab and $200 if you have $1million. There are also a few minor other differences.
The transfer rate was reduced to 1.1 cents per MR point in September 2021.
Doh!
Still a decent way to use up the last few points left over in the account when canceling the card.
Unless, you have a better option.
Yeah. Personally, I cash out all MR points at the 1.1 cents rate.
by Ketawa
Wed Mar 22, 2023 8:52 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: What's Your Credit Card Rewards Strategy?
Replies: 7203
Views: 1413769

Re: What's Your Credit Card Rewards Strategy?

EnjoyIt wrote: Wed Mar 22, 2023 8:48 am Not much different than other Amex platinum except you can transfer the points to cash at Schwab at 1.25 cents per point. Also they decrease the cost of the card by $100 if you have $250k at Schwab and $200 if you have $1million. There are also a few minor other differences.
The transfer rate was reduced to 1.1 cents per MR point in September 2021.
by Ketawa
Sat Feb 18, 2023 5:43 pm
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Why is G Fund underperforming money markets and CDs?
Replies: 17
Views: 2434

Re: Why is G Fund underperforming money markets and CDs?

Has the Federal Thrift Savings Plan G fund lost its advantage? Here is a comparison of the G Fund rate to money market funds available from Fidelity or Vanguard. Fidelity Money Market Premium Class (FZDXX) had a seven day yield of 4.27% in Jan 2023, as of Feb 17 2023 now at 4.47% Vanguard Cash Reserves Federal Money Market Fund Admiral shares (VMRXX) had a seven day yield of 4.25% in Jan 2023, as of Feb 17 2023 now at 4.52% In contrast, January 2023 G Fund rate was 4.0 percent, Feb 2023 G fund dropped to 3.625% Another safe investment alternative is a CD. On the Fidelity website as of Feb 17 2023, 3 month CDs offer 4.65%. It is hard to even find a current monthly G fund rate posted on the new TSP app or website, amongst the display banners...
by Ketawa
Sat Jan 21, 2023 9:25 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: What's Your Credit Card Rewards Strategy?
Replies: 7203
Views: 1413769

Re: What's Your Credit Card Rewards Strategy?

Ive read a lot of this thread (not all, obviously) and I have a question... The feedback from this thread makes it pretty clear what are the best personal card strategies. And thank you..ive already made a couple moves there. But one thing I didn't see discussed as much is the right strategy for an entrepreneur business owner. What are the best cards, and what is the best credit card reward strategy for a small business owner with high expenses? almost no travel. I work from home. For example, at one point I was spending thousands per month (variable) on Facebook ads, and to this day have thousands in (fixed) monthly expenses in web hosting, web design, email marketing services, etc. feedback on the best card for this kind of situation? th...
by Ketawa
Tue Jan 17, 2023 11:15 am
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: Small Cap Value heads Rejoice !!!
Replies: 5577
Views: 619229

Re: Small Cap Value heads Rejoice !!!

gtwhitegold wrote: Tue Jan 17, 2023 12:31 am How did you decide upon your large to small slant?
I didn't decide on a specific breakdown, I simply chose my preferred option in each account type. I would hold more small cap funds if there were other multi-factor investments available. I prefer QICLX to AVDV because I believe in momentum more than small cap.
by Ketawa
Mon Jan 16, 2023 11:23 pm
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: Small Cap Value heads Rejoice !!!
Replies: 5577
Views: 619229

Re: Small Cap Value heads Rejoice !!!

I guess we're a little off topic but it is really interesting how so many of us have higher international allocations than other Bogleheads or are even overweight International. Among my stock allocation I am 40% US (About 50/50 AVUV / the low cost value index fund in my 401k) 40% Developed Int'l (about 50/50 AVDV and DFA Intl Value fund) 20% Emerging markets (DFA Emerg Value) To get us back on topic we can talk about how our international allocation has small cap value funds. Like I mentioned I have a large allocation to AVDV. I have read here in Bogelehads that small cap international is a better diversifier to US stocks than large cap international because mega cap stocks are all international megacorps with the same global clients, but...
by Ketawa
Thu Jan 12, 2023 11:09 pm
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: Small Cap Value heads Rejoice !!!
Replies: 5577
Views: 619229

Re: Small Cap Value heads Rejoice !!!

I was very pleased with my tilted portfolio's performance in 2022. My portfolio is tilted as much as possible between my IRA (AQR Funds) and TSP account (S Fund and I Fund, plus DFA funds in mutual fund window). My taxable account has fixed income that I hold to arbitrage against my mortgage. Otherwise, my portfolio is 90% equities/10% QSPIX at market weights for region splits. All calculations using XIRR. Calculations for individual funds are mostly meaningless because I wasn't able to use the TSP mutual fund window until mid-year. Total -15.6% Equities -20.6% Domestic -24.4% Domestic SCV -7.2% International -14.2% Intl Developed -13.8% Intl Emerging -15.1% Fixed Income 6.0% QSPIX 41.5% Individual Funds QSMLX -14.7% DFSVX 23.0% S Fund -28....
by Ketawa
Sat Dec 31, 2022 10:10 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Anyone have any luck with new TSP login?
Replies: 373
Views: 39637

Re: Anyone have any luck with new TSP login?

So...it's been bugging me about the password issue...not being able to change it when logged into the account. Called TSP and had a rep assist in making the change. He sends an email to your account of record with a link that you have to click. Then you provide the new password and have the system generate a text to your phone of record. Put in that code and it logs you into the site with the new password. He mentioned that had I gone the "forgot password" route, the chances are I'd have had to call to get it squared away. So, I'm glad I called. Also, set up the "account lock" while I was at it. (This whole LastPass debacle has motivated me to move to another password manager and strengthen all of our financial accounts...
by Ketawa
Wed Nov 23, 2022 10:22 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Worthwhile to purchase separate liability insurance for an e-bike?
Replies: 57
Views: 4399

Re: Worthwhile to purchase separate liability insurance for an e-bike?

To close the loop on this, I purchased a $300K liability-only policy from Markel. The premium was $144. I also bought a Kryptonite New York Fahgettaboudit Chain 1410 to lock the frame and rear wheel, plus a KryptoFlex 410 Double Loop Cable to secure the front wheel. Somehow, I got the chain at a huge discount ($115 plus tax) shipped from the Amazon UK store. Otherwise, I would have gone with the Kryptonite Evolution 1090 Integrated Chain. Kryptonite provides insurance for theft without a deductible, and I spent $35 to purchase the 5-year option. Locks are only there to keep honest people honest. We’ve seen people use angle grinders take off the entire bike rack with the bike. If they want it they’ll get it. Park next to an unlocked bike to...
by Ketawa
Wed Nov 23, 2022 10:01 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Worthwhile to purchase separate liability insurance for an e-bike?
Replies: 57
Views: 4399

Re: Worthwhile to purchase separate liability insurance for an e-bike?

Luckywon wrote: Wed Nov 23, 2022 9:03 am
Ketawa wrote: Wed Nov 23, 2022 8:49 am To close the loop on this, I purchased a $300K liability-only policy from Markel. The premium was $144.
Thanks for the update. Do you have an umbrella policy and if so would that apply for claims above 300k?
I have an umbrella policy with GEICO. It will not cover my e-bike since any motor vehicles have to be named on the policy, and it is not possible for me to add it per GEICO policy.
by Ketawa
Wed Nov 23, 2022 8:49 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Worthwhile to purchase separate liability insurance for an e-bike?
Replies: 57
Views: 4399

Re: Worthwhile to purchase separate liability insurance for an e-bike?

To close the loop on this, I purchased a $300K liability-only policy from Markel. The premium was $144.

I also bought a Kryptonite New York Fahgettaboudit Chain 1410 to lock the frame and rear wheel, plus a KryptoFlex 410 Double Loop Cable to secure the front wheel. Somehow, I got the chain at a huge discount ($115 plus tax) shipped from the Amazon UK store. Otherwise, I would have gone with the Kryptonite Evolution 1090 Integrated Chain. Kryptonite provides insurance for theft without a deductible, and I spent $35 to purchase the 5-year option.
by Ketawa
Mon Nov 14, 2022 3:00 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Ad Blockers
Replies: 56
Views: 4180

Re: Ad Blockers

Chrome on PC: uBlock Origin

Android phone: lifetime subscription to AdGuard for Android. It works by setting up a local VPN with filtering rules. Extremely effective in Chrome and many apps, although notably ineffective for YouTube.
by Ketawa
Mon Nov 14, 2022 12:51 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Worthwhile to purchase separate liability insurance for an e-bike?
Replies: 57
Views: 4399

Re: Worthwhile to purchase separate liability insurance for an e-bike?

OP & I both live in DC and both have a Condo Owner's insurance policy from Traveler's. He has called them and been told they would not cover liability from operation of his eBike. I too have called them (last night) and was told they would! :oops: Homeowner's/Condo does not cover motor vehicles. This is how my (our?) policy defines a motor vehicle: A self-propelled land or amphibious vehicle I called Travelers again and went through the sections of my policy that discuss property coverage for motor vehicles and motor vehicle liability. The agent and I both concluded that an e-bike is not covered. On the definition of a motor vehicle, I think a Class 2 e-bike, and probably most Class 3 e-bikes, are self-propelled as defined by Travelers...
by Ketawa
Mon Nov 14, 2022 11:37 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Worthwhile to purchase separate liability insurance for an e-bike?
Replies: 57
Views: 4399

Re: Worthwhile to purchase separate liability insurance for an e-bike?

furwut wrote: Sat Nov 12, 2022 11:51 am In the American market eBikes being sold are categorized into three classes, Class-1, Class-2, and Class-3.
Class-1 eBikes will assist pedaling up to 20 MPH
Class-3 eBikes will assist pedaling up to 28 MPH

Neither Class-1 or Class-3 bikes are what I would call self-propelled.

Op would like to insure a Class-2 eBike.
Class-2 eBikes have a throttle and are self-propelled up to 20 MPH.

So whether Traveler's or another insurer will cover your eBike may depend on its Class.
Minor correction, Class 3 e-bikes can definitely be self-propelled. For example, I think all the Ride1Up models are described as "Class 3 electric bike, with 28mph pedal assist and 20mph throttle."
by Ketawa
Fri Nov 11, 2022 7:37 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Worthwhile to purchase separate liability insurance for an e-bike?
Replies: 57
Views: 4399

Re: Worthwhile to purchase separate liability insurance for an e-bike?

You may want to try a different home insurer. I just checked with mine, Travelers, and they confirmed they cover liability - no special endorsement required. P.S., I too have a “Geico” condo policy from Travelers. So I think you may not have gotten the right answer? I also have GEICO for auto and umbrella, and Travelers for condo (through GEICO). It's possible that there are different regulations depending on the state/jurisdiction. The agent I talked to with Travelers was very specific that my condo insurance didn't cover motor vehicles, and it seems like electric bikes are considered a motor vehicle in DC. My insurance with GEICO was very cheap when I last got a lot of quotes a few years ago, and the cost hasn't changed much. I'll probab...
by Ketawa
Fri Nov 11, 2022 8:36 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Worthwhile to purchase separate liability insurance for an e-bike?
Replies: 57
Views: 4399

Re: Worthwhile to purchase separate liability insurance for an e-bike?

homebuyer6426 wrote: Fri Nov 11, 2022 8:35 am What sort of liability are you thinking about as a potential risk? It's pretty difficult to hit a pedestrian on a bike if you aren't reckless, and even if you do the damage is going to be minor. If you hit a car, or a car hits you, it's you who is going to take most of the damage. I would not purchase liability insurance.
Theoretically, I could be found at fault in an accident with a car, but I'm not sure whether it ever happens.
by Ketawa
Fri Nov 11, 2022 8:24 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Worthwhile to purchase separate liability insurance for an e-bike?
Replies: 57
Views: 4399

Re: Worthwhile to purchase separate liability insurance for an e-bike?

homebuyer6426 wrote: Fri Nov 11, 2022 8:20 am I would not purchase insurance for an ebike. I would purchase a very strong locking system for it. I used to bike all around DC in the 90s with my father, as our primary transportation. We rode old secondhand bikes and did a lot of miles on them. Bike theft was definitely common there, it didn't happen to us because we took the precautions. Be able to see your locked bike from the window if possible, lock through frame and both wheels, use thick enough lock/chain, don't lock to inappropriate objects, etc.
I have already decided I won't purchase insurance for physical damage or theft. This thread is about liability insurance.
by Ketawa
Fri Nov 11, 2022 8:02 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Worthwhile to purchase separate liability insurance for an e-bike?
Replies: 57
Views: 4399

Re: Worthwhile to purchase separate liability insurance for an e-bike?

I would think that unless it's excluded in the policy you should be covered. Ebike is similar to a regular bike in weight and speed. You're more likely to hurt yourself than anyone else. I've ridden my ebike 5,000 miles and have never come close to hitting a person walking. Get a good bell and use it whenever you are passing someone. It's the law here so probably the same in your area. I am fairly confident that liability from an accident while I'm riding my electric bike would be excluded by my umbrella policy. I outlined the rationale in my previous post. I have a bell and might install a louder combination horn & alarm device. I've never come close to causing any kind of accident on my regular bike or when renting an e-bike in the c...
by Ketawa
Fri Nov 11, 2022 7:58 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Worthwhile to purchase separate liability insurance for an e-bike?
Replies: 57
Views: 4399

Re: Worthwhile to purchase separate liability insurance for an e-bike?

Have you read the umbrella policy? I’d be curious if the terms actually exclude liability coverage or if the person you spoke to just doesn’t have a way to explicitly have the terms say it’s covered. My policy with RLI excludes “mopeds” and “motorcycles” but makes no mention of e-bikes. Good idea, here are the results of my investigation. My umbrella policy (in DC) specifically excludes any motor vehicles that are not listed on the declarations page. It does not distinguish between classes of motor vehicles like mopeds or motorcycles. A Class 2 electric bike (unassisted throttle and pedal assist up to 20 mph) is considered by DC to be a type of non-traditional motor vehicle, specifically, a "motorized bicycle." Link to PDF: Synop...
by Ketawa
Thu Nov 10, 2022 8:35 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Worthwhile to purchase separate liability insurance for an e-bike?
Replies: 57
Views: 4399

Worthwhile to purchase separate liability insurance for an e-bike?

I'm trying to gauge whether it would be worthwhile to purchase liability insurance for an electric bike. Opinions welcome. I recently purchased a RadRover 6 Plus High Step bike. I will be using it regularly to commute about 5-8 miles round trip when I go to work, depending on what I'm doing at lunch time. Much of the trip is on bike paths. Besides commuting, I will use it sporadically to get around the city. Drivers are terrible in DC; people are constantly blowing through red lights, making illegal U-turns, stopping in bike lanes, etc. The total replacement cost is around $2300. Physical damage coverage also includes theft. With a maximum deductible of $500, the cost for physical damage coverage is $150. The bike will be in my apartment ov...
by Ketawa
Sat Nov 05, 2022 4:13 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: What's Your Credit Card Rewards Strategy?
Replies: 7203
Views: 1413769

Re: What's Your Credit Card Rewards Strategy?

arsenal_fan wrote: Fri Nov 04, 2022 5:14 pm Does anyone know if we can get approved for a Morgan Stanley Amex Platinum while holding a Schwab Platinum? I guess I’ll be giving up a year of Hilton / Marriott status with the overlap but I’m over 5/24 and this seems like the only card I haven’t applied for
You can definitely get another Platinum, I have 4. Regular, Schwab, Mercedes Benz that has been converted to regular, Ameriprise that has been converted to regular. This one requires having a Morgan Stanley account. It used to be possible with the Access Investing product so you'd have to tie up some funds in there. You'll want to research whether that still works.
by Ketawa
Sun Oct 23, 2022 7:39 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: What's Your Credit Card Rewards Strategy?
Replies: 7203
Views: 1413769

Re: What's Your Credit Card Rewards Strategy?

You can only use the Schwab version of Amex Platinum for MR from using the Platinum right? Can we do it if we have say the Gold and transfer to Schwab? All MR points are pooled, so you can earn from spending on the Gold card and cash out via the Schwab Platinum card to your Schwab account. You do need the Schwab Platinum card for the 1.1¢ redemption option. 1.1 cpp on Amex plat isn’t great through when there’s a ton of 1.5 a 2% cards? The only “bonus category” on the platinum is for airfare. When you calculate in the annual fee, that’s not a very good return. Unless you’re getting a lot of good benefits otherwise? I generally only spend on my Amex cards in bonus categories. Airfare for the Platinum cards, dining for the Gold card (though l...
by Ketawa
Sat Oct 22, 2022 9:46 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: What's Your Credit Card Rewards Strategy?
Replies: 7203
Views: 1413769

Re: What's Your Credit Card Rewards Strategy?

I cash out all my transferrable points regularly.

-1.1¢ for Membership Rewards through the Schwab version of the Amex Platinum
-1.5¢ for Ultimate Rewards using Pay Yourself Back on dining for the Chase Sapphire Reserve
by Ketawa
Wed Oct 19, 2022 3:34 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Condo Assessment for Reserves Add to Basis?
Replies: 11
Views: 1010

Re: Condo Assessment for Reserves Add to Basis?

I think it is clear from the IRS Pubs 523 and 530 that a new roof counts as an improvement. I don't know why, but perhaps because it extends the useful life of the building. According to this article, improvements made by the association can be used to adjust your basis. However, examining your assessments (regular or special) is the wrong approach. Instead, you should find out the cost of the improvement (i.e., the cost of the new roof) and determine your pro rata portion of the cost. https://www.nolo.com/legal-encyclopedia/tax-issues-when-selling-condo-townhouse-other-property-homeowners-association.html Also at that link, it says that co-ops can include the amount of principal paydown on the underlying mortgage, which was news to me (I o...
by Ketawa
Tue Oct 18, 2022 1:37 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Tales from this insane real estate market [Home sales]
Replies: 2905
Views: 515411

Re: Tales from this insane real estate market [Home sales]

Marseille07 wrote: Tue Oct 18, 2022 1:29 pm
Ketawa wrote: Tue Oct 18, 2022 1:03 pm Housing might fall, but it might go up. A major contributor to higher long-term rates is inflation expectations. Housing is not immune to inflation. Based on some cursory Google searches, house prices kept going up during previous high inflation periods in the late 70s and early 80s.
It's not so much about inflation, but more about people's ability to finance mortgage at 7%. Cash buyers thrive here but most buyers finance RE.
Sure, but that also happened in the past. People sucked it up and had mortgages over 10%.
by Ketawa
Tue Oct 18, 2022 1:03 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Tales from this insane real estate market [Home sales]
Replies: 2905
Views: 515411

Re: Tales from this insane real estate market [Home sales]

In bay area price drops are everywhere. The sale prices are atleast 10% off their median highs from early this year. However these contracts happened when interest rates were 5- 5.5%. The true effect of 7% is yet to be seen. Sellers who can wait are putting houses on rental market. I can see another 10% drop if the fed holds the rate. Interest payments on multi million mortgages at 7% is brutal compared to 2.5% earlier this year. All else equal, should see a price drop of about 12% from a rate increase of 1.5%. I think prices in the average market need to fall by about 32% since the rate went from 3% to 7%, so that’s (7-3)*0.08=0.32. But in red hot markets like California maybe prices will only fall by half that. Agreed. A $1M mortgage at ...
by Ketawa
Sat Oct 08, 2022 9:18 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: What's Your Credit Card Rewards Strategy?
Replies: 7203
Views: 1413769

Re: What's Your Credit Card Rewards Strategy?

plutoblackhole wrote: Thu Oct 06, 2022 2:05 pm
Ependytis wrote: Thu Oct 06, 2022 1:50 pm Pen Fed Cash Rewards
Is this a card that no longer exists? PenFed's best gas card that I know of is the Platinum with 5x on gas / EV charging. But standard redemption is 0.85 cents per point, making it 4.25% back.
The PenFed Platinum Cash Rewards card is no longer available. It's actually 5% cash back, not 6%.