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You’ve gone a long way when your business is all set up and doing very well. However, the hard reality of financial setbacks and unexpected expenses is something we all have to face, so best to always be prepared. You might be one of the many businesswomen who has obligations to your family like caring for your young children and at the same time, well into your entrepreneurial journey. Things can suddenly take a major turn when you go through the different stages of life and more so, when you come across situations that you didn’t really see coming. A helpful way to weather any storm that may come your way is to have a savings and investment plan so read on and know how saving up can help your business in case it encounters financial problems. Let’s start by recognizing challenges to reaching your financial goals, such as the following:• Disability. If you have dependents, ensure their needs are covered in case of an unforeseen event. For example, consider a life insurance plus investment plan for yourself and invest in disability insurance. • Health setbacks. While insurance with investment plans can help cover some medical costs, ensure you have enough coverage by considering to get a comprehensive health care plan as well. Take good care of your health, too, by getting regular checkups, exercising, and eating healthy. • Death of a loved one. As this can have an immense impact emotionally and financially, having a will prepared and kept up-to-date can help set things in order. Ensure that you have life insurance coverage that also has an investment component to provide care and support for your dependents even when you're gone. • Job loss or resignation. To be prepared in case this happens, have an emergency fund to temporarily cover your everyday expenses which include your business.• Market volatility. This occurs when certain market factors such as, consumer sentiment, inflation, company performance, fiscal and monetary changes and the like cause movements in the market. You may lose a lot of money when this happens unless you diversify your investments and choose less risky forms of investment such as bonds.More ways to protect your savingsTo further help you protect your finances and prepare for such potential financial threats to your business, we rounded up these following steps you can take: 1. Build a financial plan. This plan should include your financial goals, such as saving for retirement, a house, and if you have children, their college education. Also, consider how you will manage your investments in the long term. Consider speaking with a financial advisor to help you create a plan that suits your needs. 2. Have an emergency fund. Save enough money to cover at least three to six months' worth of living expenses should you lose your job, get sick, or experience other unforeseen events. 3. Say no to debt. Borrowing money or using your credit card often comes with high interest rates, so you eventually end up paying more. Having too much debt can also leave little money for unexpected expenses or emergencies. Because of this, try as much as possible to always pay for things you buy in full. 4. Invest. Invest in assets like stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and real estate to potentially grow your money. Remember, though, that each of these has its own level of risk. Therefore, understand these risks and learn how to limit your exposure before investing. Also, make sure you diversify your portfolio, so that if one of your investments performs poorly, the others are not put at risk. 5. Review your insurance and investment plans. Also, ensure you have adequate insurance coverage for unforeseen events like death and disability. Check if it is enough to cover your needs and that of your dependents and/or property. Always reach out to your financial advisor to cover the gaps of your financial needs.If you’re ready to avail of or upgrade your savings and investment plans, consider AXA’s range of products and services. We offer flexible plans that will suit your budget and lifestyle, no matter your age and stage in life. Our wide range of insurance and investment plans will also help you prepare for unforeseen events that can potentially hurt your family’s finances. If in case a sudden illness would set you back, AXA also offers various health care plans to help you overcome such a roadblock to your entrepreneurial journey. One of your options could be AXA Health Care Access if you’re looking for a health plan that’s both comprehensive and affordable. You may also consider AXA Global Health Access which provides best-in-class worldwide medical coverage. Know you can game plan your way to preparing for the unexpected by availing of any of AXA’s savings and investment plans. Talk to an AXA financial advisor today for more information.

Having multiple sources of income is among the primary drivers to financial freedom. Part of being financially free is when you’re able to stand on your own, more so, if you can support those who count on you. On the one hand, if you’re a mom, a career woman, or both, you would understand the importance of budgeting for the household depending on your income. On the other hand, if you’re more a businesswoman or female entrepreneur, running your own business either out of passion or motivation is also anchored on how you can grow it. Growing your business can be tough but the path to growth could be much easier if you can diversify your passive income opportunities. When your business is sustained and thrives, you can potentially pass it on in the future. While generating passive income is a means to build your wealth, it also gives a certain sense of empowerment especially if you pulled it off on your own. Having steady passive income outside your business can likewise help with potential expansion plans. The most common types of passive income include interest from investments, rents from rental properties, royalties from the sale of intellectual property, and income from a business you have set up but are not actively involved in. How diversifying your income can benefit your businessWith a wide range of income streams at your disposal, not only do you have the means to sustain your business, but these also make it future proof. A diversified income portfolio can benefit your business in the following ways: • You can build a support fund. It would be a great deal of relief when you know you can pull from something in case your business hits a rough patch financially. Having this “break-in-case-of-emergency” funds source can help save your business in the event of significant losses.• Get help in shouldering some business expenses. In case you would also need extra cash to take care of some operating costs, there’s a way with your other sources of income. While this can be an option, it is still ideal to charge these costs to the earnings generated by your business so you can properly keep track of its financial health.• Steady income flow can help you focus on your business. You can devote more time to your business when you don’t have to worry about paying the bills. This means that you can put all your energy in making sure that your business does well.4 types of passive income to explore When it comes to creating a passive income plan, there are a variety of ways to do it. Here are some of the most common types of passive income sources that you can explore today:  1. Time deposits. These are fixed-term investments in which you lend money to a bank or other financial institutions for a certain period of time. The bank then pays you interest on the loan at the end of the term. Time deposits are low-risk options and provide a steady income stream over time.  2. Dividend-paying funds. These are investments that pay out regular dividends to their investors. Dividends are usually paid out per quarter or annually. 3. Real estate. One ideal way to generate passive income. You can purchase rental properties, which will generate rental income for you on a regular basis. You can also purchase real estate for development and resale, which can generate a large amount of passive income over time.  4. Global investments. These are investments in funds, assets, or currencies abroad. By investing globally, you can maximize your returns and minimize your exposure to market downturns through portfolio diversification.Passive income is a great way to boost your existing income and build long-term wealth. If you’re looking for a way to achieve your financial goals and have the freedom and flexibility to pursue your passions and dreams, consider creating a passive income plan today. AXA can be your partner in this financial journey. It offers comprehensive savings and investment plans that will not only help take care of your immediate financial needs but also the wealth plan for your future.  Know you can game plan your way to building your wealth with passive income by availing of any of AXA’s savings and investment plans. Contact an AXA financial advisor for more information. 

Do you see yourself owning and managing your nail and hair salon someday? Or are you aspiring to be the full-time boss of your flower shop or ice cream store? If you’re over the moon with the idea of doing something you genuinely love while earning money, maybe it’s your calling to become a businesswoman. Although there are a lot of factors to consider in starting your own business, practicing simple financial habits every day can be a great start. Here's how you can save up for your capital to turn your dream business into reality.Live within your meansSpend only what you have and avoid buying things that will exceed your budget. You just need your good old willpower to buy items that you need and discern on the items that you want, even if they are at a discount. By controlling your finances, you can save more for your business fund. Set a budget and track your expensesSee where your money goes using a budget tracker app or an Excel file. This will help you better examine how much you spend on essentials and how much goes into other items. From there, you’ll know where to cut back or ease up on your spending. This would also be a great tool to use to monitor your finances once you start your business.Set your financial mantraCreate your personal mantra on handling finances, and then use it as a reminder to guide your spending habits. It can be as loose as “I'll only shop online if shipping is free and if I really need that item,” or as strict as “I can only eat out once I’ve paid my credit card bill in full.” Starting this habit can help you set boundaries and break your bad money practices that might affect your business someday.Make a listIf you’re an impulsive buyer, it’s best to list down the things you need before you shop. Also, to avoid buyer’s remorse, you can try doing these things: survey your options, conduct research, and time your purchase with deals and discounts. You can apply this tip as well to ensure proper budget allocation for your future business.Have a financial planning guideWhen it comes to prioritizing your financial goals, it is best to refer to the financial planning pyramid as your guide. This will help you focus on achieving financial security while you build your business with ease.Invest your moneySet aside some funds and invest your money so it can grow over time. Keep yourself informed about economic and market trends that may affect your investments. Consider getting an all-around insurance plan with an investment feature like AXA’s MyLifeChoice. With this you are not only financially protecting the future of your loved ones, you’re also expanding your portfolio to finance your business funds.Practicing these good money habits consistently is a good foundation to mold and shape you as a future entrepreneur. It will entail a lot of discipline and hard work, but you’ll be surprised at how these small steps can help you achieve your business goals sooner rather than later.Kick start your entrepreneurial journey with AXA, your financial partner for life. With its savings and investment plans like MyLifeChoice, you can be more confident in starting your dream business.Know you can game plan your way to opening your first business while getting financial protection! Contact an AXA financial advisor today for more information.

Going on that much awaited trip abroad? Whether travelling for leisure be it flying solo, with your family, your girlfriends, or even if you’re going on official trips for your business, you want it to be a pleasant experience. Unfortunately, no matter how much you hope for everything to go smoothly, travel inconveniences can pretty much pop out of nowhere. What’s more, if you happen to be a businesswoman too, taking a much-deserved break should be time well spent. But if your trip hits a snag, this could also impact your business financially.With foresight and planning, you can mitigate the impact of travel inconveniences if they do happen. Check out the following tips so you can be a step ahead in case of trip hassles you may encounter:1. Stay informed. Keep aware with real-time information regarding your travel plans. Follow airline or transportation updates through official apps, websites, or announcements to anticipate changes.2. Get travel insurance. Invest in comprehensive travel insurance that covers flight cancellations, delays, lost baggage, and medical emergencies. This provides financial protection and helps you have peace of mind.3. Know your rights. Familiarize yourself with passenger rights and airline policies regarding delays, cancellations, and compensation.4. Pack the essentials in your carry-on. Make sure you have enough extra clothes, toiletries, medications, and valuables in your carry-on bag. This ensures you have immediate access to the necessities.5. Charge your gadgets. Keep your electronic devices fully charged to stay connected and entertained in case of unexpected delays.6. Be Flexible. Flexibility is key and it would be ideal if you’re open to consider alternate routes, airports, or travel dates to work around possible disruptions.7. Communicate frequently. Keep your loved ones and travel companions informed about your situation. Regular communication ensures everyone is aware of changes and can adjust accordingly.8. Document everything. Keep a record of flight details, communication with airlines, receipts, and any inconveniences you experience. This documentation may be required in case you will file compensation claims.Packing preparedness for your tripBe your own boss when you travel and choose to be ready for inconveniences every time you take a trip. AXA Smart Traveller offers comprehensive protection and peace of mind as it provides round-the-clock travel and medical assistance for a single trip, at an affordable price.For example, basic coverage for a five-day trip to Japan is only about PHP 800 per person and you already get protection in case of lost or damaged luggage, a canceled flight due to emergency, and medical expenses in case you suffer an injury or illness during your domestic or international trip.Know you can game plan your travels and at the same time protect your business venture. Contact an AXA financial advisor today to know more.

Passing on your legacy is often a deeply personal endeavor, and planning is crucial to ensure that your financial goals and wishes are carried out effectively. If you plan to pass on your assets such as your business, start with an open communication with your heirs regarding your work values, principles, strategies, and philanthropic intentions. This would prepare and equip them as they take on the major roles in running the business. Develop a wealth distribution plan to protect your assets from potential threats and to have peace of mind knowing that your wealth will be secured for your loved ones. A wealth distribution plan may include strategies such as donations to heirs,  transfer to heirs, and life insurance with investment. Each of these strategies has its own set of advantages and disadvantages and should be studied carefully before they are implemented. 1. Donate to heirs. This is one of the most common forms of wealth transfer planning. This involves transferring cash, properties, stocks, and business assets to your heir during your lifetime through a will or trust. If you choose to do it in the form of a will, know that assets are typically bequeathed to the heir upon the death of the donor. If you decide to do it through a trust, on the other hand, assets can be transferred to the heir before the death of the donor. Trusts can provide more control over how the assets are distributed and can offer additional benefits like asset protection and estate tax planning. Additionally, when you decide to donate it to your heirs, you can leave a portion of your wealth to charitable organizations, supporting causes that are important to your family.2. Transfer to heirs. Consider using this method of wealth distribution to make sure your investments and other assets are in excellent hands. This involves transferring your assets to your heirs before passing away for a more seamless transition of ownership. By doing this, you would spare your heirs and beneficiaries from having to pay the entire estate tax. Additionally, you would save them from the hassle of the costly and complex process of inheriting your wealth.3. Life insurance with investment. Another option that you should consider when passing on your wealth is getting life insurance with an investment component as soon as you can. While it is great that you have a steady business to support your loved ones, giving them financial security in the form of insurance should also be your priority. Life insurance can be used to cover funeral expenses, pay off debts, and provide a source of income for your heirs. You can also access a variety of global investment opportunities that you can use as a living benefit for your retirement or as an additional business fund. With this, you have the opportunity to grow your wealth over time before transferring it to your heirs. By choosing this type of wealth protection, you will also help ensure that your heirs receive their inheritance. With AXA’s Asset Master, you can acquire all these benefits and worry less about protecting your business while starting your estate planning. As you come near your retirement, make it a priority to have a well-structured wealth protection plan that is tailored to your specific needs and goals. By doing so, you can enjoy life more and focus on your personal well-being in your golden years.Know you can game plan your efficient wealth transfer today with the help of AXA’s Asset Master. For more information, contact an AXA financial advisor today.

Dear Self, You deserve a pat on the back! It has been a grueling and stressful week putting up your own business, but I am proud of you for making it through. Who would have thought that three months would fly by so fast? I can still remember you sitting in this coffee shop, thinking about what business to start, and now look at you—still sitting on the same spot, but now with your business dreams within reach. I am aware that there are times when you feel overwhelmed with responsibilities and expectations to become successful. Know that this is part of the journey, so enjoy each moment: wake up every morning with enthusiasm, treat your staff right, and greet your customers with a smile. Your business will thank you later for hustling and doing all the work with love. A few weeks or months from now, I’m certain that things will be a lot more challenging. That is why it is all right to ask for help and seek advice from other businesswomen who have succeeded in their own ventures. I’m lucky to have interacted with them. So, for rookies like me and for the other aspiring businesswomen out there who are just beginning their entrepreneurial journey, I have collated some of the #adultingtips I have learned so far, which I know will be helpful in the future.1. Saving.  Make a conscious choice to save. I know you’re doing your best to spend less to save more, but when you almost have the business fund to start, something always comes up. A high school friend invites you to a party, your car suddenly needs new tires, and your sister asks for help with her hospital bills—and just like that, your money goes down the drain. Every entrepreneur faces this challenge: having a shoestring budget to continue their business. There is no other tip that I can give you but to cultivate the habit of saving money. Purchase the things that you need and cut back on unnecessary expenses. Say no to unplanned trips. Stay committed to your game plan. You will have to make sacrifices right now, but I promise you it will all be worth it in the end. 2. Investing.  The best time to invest your money is right now.  You will yield more success if you learn the importance of getting your own savings and investment plan.Don’t put all your eggs in one basket. Build your wealth by letting your money grow through other means. This will give you more assurance of having a prosperous financial future. I know you are a self-learner; research the importance of having insurance and investment plans, but don’t hesitate to talk to a financial advisor. They can give you an idea of what kind of investment would suit your budget and lifestyle and help make sure you are making the best financial decisions for you and your business.3. Living wisely.  Prioritize work-life balance to maintain your health and well-being. You can make better decisions if you are a healthy and motivated business owner.Don't let the pressure of attaining success overnight get to you. Sometimes you have to take the backseat and just let things be. Remember, you can't control everything in your business, but you can always control the way you react to things. Talk calmly if your client gets angry and embrace feedback if your employee is not happy. Remember, the success of your business depends on how you treat the people around you.Having a business might mean working tirelessly and finding it hard to squeeze in a grand vacation leave but don’t forget to go on simple staycations and set some pamper days. These can go a long way of physically and mentally refreshing yourself. You earned it, and you deserved it for making it through.I hope this letter inspires you to keep moving forward and always trust your potential. If you’re able to read this anytime soon, I’m grateful, that you were able to start your insurance and investment plans ahead. For other young entrepreneurs, getting one will help you a lot in dealing with potential financial setbacks as you expand your business further. Find a plan that will help you invest and diversify your portfolio while protecting your business from financial blows. I’m happy to share with you that I made the right choice with AXA’s MyLifeChoice.Know you can gameplan your business to success with the tips I shared with you. I also got an expert to help me with my financial journey. Just reach out to an AXA financial advisor in case you have questions.

It’s not hard to imagine getting a car as it gets you around easily. As it is convenient transportation, there are more things to consider in owning a car, let alone using it for deliveries for your business. If you’re into baking or arranging flowers, you might be one of the businesswomen considering taking up a delivery service. Bear in mind also that with a delivery service comes the assurance that the quality of your product is kept as it makes its way to your customer’s doorstep. Now, you might have the financial capability to purchase a vehicle right away or at least pay for the monthly auto loan amortization. But the reality is, you also need to consider certain factors that come with ownership. So, before you decide to get that delivery car, take a look at this list of things to think about:1. Establish the purpose and need. Clearly define the purpose of the delivery service. Determine if it's for local deliveries, expanding customer reach, or optimizing order fulfillment.2. Find the right vehicle type and size. Choose a vehicle that suits your specific business needs. Factors like cargo capacity, fuel efficiency, and maneuverability in urban areas should guide your decision.3. Review budgeting and costs. Evaluate the costs associated with purchasing, operating, and maintaining the vehicle as well as driver payroll.4. Know the regulations and permits. Research and comply with local regulations related to commercial vehicle operations. 5. Conduct driver training. Ensure that your drivers are properly trained for safe and efficient driving.6. Get insurance coverage. Obtain the appropriate commercial car insurance to cover your vehicle, drivers, and potential liability in case of accidents or damages during deliveries.7. Prioritize customer experience. Create positive customer experience by putting into place a seamless delivery process. 8. Listen to feedback and adapt. Gather feedback from customers and drivers regularly to identify areas for improvement.Considering all of these, if you really think that delivery car’s worth getting, go for it. Just make sure it’s well-maintained and protected from the unexpected. Also, consider getting AXA's car insurance to help boost your safety and peace of mind when it comes to your hard-earned assets. Know you can game plan your way to your business goals. Contact an AXA financial advisor to learn more about getting car insurance in the Philippines.

Starting your business from scratch is far from easy and can be one of the most challenging endeavors for a woman to undertake. Just like raising a child—it needs care, attention, and guidance to grow and prosper. It also demands a long-term commitment and entails a level of uncertainty. While it may look difficult and daunting, running a business with your own sweat and blood can be life-changing. Seeing your child grow, just like witnessing your business flourish, can be incredibly rewarding. Turn your entrepreneurial journey into a success story by assessing yourself and answering these four questions.Question # 1:  What kind of business do you want to open?Finding your passion is the starting point of any business venture. So, before anything else, ask yourself: What kind of business would I want to pursue? Do I want my own coffee shop? An online clothing store? Or a makeup boutique? When you finally have the answer, start laying out your short-term and long-term business objectives and plan. Conduct in-depth research on your target market and build your brand. Starting your business with a solid foundation will pave the way to success. Question # 2:  How much does it cost to operate your business?You already have the perfect business idea in mind, but do you have the resources to turn it into reality? For your business to go in full swing, it is crucial to do proper financial planning to ensure that you have enough funds to cover initial expenses and sustain your business operating costs until it becomes profitable. You must look at several factors, including your business registration fees, the physical space for your store if you plan to have one, and the cost of your equipment and supplies. Seek advice from other successful entrepreneurs who have the same business as you to get a more precise idea of the funds needed for your business to prosper.One thing you can also consider is buying your own car for transporting goods or meeting with clients. This is a good investment, especially if you’re planning to sell your products in long-distance locations. Make sure you purchase car insurance plan to make sure that you are protected in case of unexpected events on the road. Question # 3:  Are you 100% committed to your business goals?Business is bound to have ups and downs. Anticipate that challenges will arise and that some aspects of your business may not go as planned. Knowing this, are you still up for chasing your dream of becoming the CEO of your business venture? If yes, just stay committed. Have the right mindset, get the best tips from successful entrepreneurs, embrace the lessons from your setbacks, and use all those experiences to improve your business practices.For additional security, think about getting a property or business insurance plan to protect your business from possible risks and liabilities. Securing one will help you mitigate financial mishaps in the future. Question # 4:  Why do you want your business to succeed? As you embark on your entrepreneurial journey, it’s common to encounter moments of feeling lost or uncertain along the way. If this happens, just contemplate and ask yourself: What is the reason why I want to be successful? Financial security for my family? Personal fulfillment? Or maybe you just want to leave a meaningful impact on others’ lives. Only you will know the answer to this.Just like these uncertainties, it is very important for you to have a financial net in case something unfortunate happens. Securing the future of the ones you love through an insurance and investment plan can give you that peace of mind as you reach your destination of becoming a successful businesswoman.Know you can game plan your thriving business into a success story while protecting your family with AXA’s range of insurance solutions. Get life insurance coverage while potentially accumulating funds that you can use for your business with MyLifeChoice. As you start your business, it’s good to protect your hard-earned assets with AXA’s car and property insurance plan. Contact an AXA financial advisor today for more information.

There’s no such thing as a risk-free life. No matter who you are, you’re subject to risks on a daily basis and if you’re running a business, it’s no different. You might be among the many female entrepreneurs out there who got through a challenging business environment to establish your own. When you’ve put in the work to build your business from the ground up, you wouldn’t want it to fail for any reason. However, the impact of risks can be minimized to some extent by cultivating awareness of our environment and being mindful of our actions. As we face countless risks, best to bear in mind these preparatory initiatives to help you handle the financial strain that comes with an accident so your business can stay afloat.1. Come up with an emergency response plan. Outline the steps to be taken immediately after an accident. This includes ensuring the safety of employees, securing the premises, and contacting relevant authorities. For instance, among the most common are road accidents. You can arm yourself from the financial distress of car repairs and medical expenses that may arise from these road accidents with car insurance that goes beyond the basics. AXA Philippines’ comprehensive car insurance, for example, provides customizable medical coverage for bodily injuries and coverage for vehicle and property damages (with an option to add coverage for damages caused by acts of nature). It also comes with 24/7 roadside assistance for emergency cases.2. Back up your systems and data regularly. Ensure that you have backup files of your business-critical data and systems and that these are updated on a frequent basis.3. Establish remote work capabilities. Set up work arrangements and provide employees with the necessary tools to continue their tasks from off-site locations. This allows your business to operate even if the physical workplace is inaccessible.4. Get insurance coverage. Invest in appropriate insurance coverage, such as property insurance and business interruption insurance. This can help cover financial losses incurred due to accidents that disrupt regular operations.5. Identify communication channels. Maintain updated contact lists for employees, clients, suppliers, and stakeholders.6. Be consistent with customer communication. Keep customers informed about the situation, the steps you're taking to address it, and any potential disruptions on services or products.7. Build financial resilience. Sustain your financial capability with a fund that can be accessed in times of crisis. This can help cover unexpected expenses and sustain your business during recovery.Anything can happen whether you’re at home, on the road, abroad or even at your own workplace. It pays to always have the presence of mind and foresight to prepare for possible threats to keep your business afloat. Being ready for the physical and financial consequences brought by accidents can help maintain and preserve the funds you’ve set aside for your business. By having insurance, you don’t have to take from these funds and your business can run smoothly and uninterrupted.Consider AXA as your partner for your protection needs. Among AXA’s offers is its Smart Traveller travel insurance that financially protects you from a wide range of accidents and trip inconveniences such as losing a piece of luggage, flight delay or flight cancellation. It boasts comprehensive emergency medical benefits and round-the-clock travel assistance in case you need immediate support following an incident. AXA also offers an insurance product that’s specifically designed to cover personal accidents. Personal Accident (PA) Insurance covers death or specific types of injury as a result of an accident. It can be availed as Individual PA, Family PA, Auto Passenger PA, Student PA, and Travel PA.Some accidents could’ve been prevented, while some are bound to happen despite our best efforts to avert them. In any case, it’s good to be able to breathe easy knowing your business is taken care of even from the unpredictable. Know you can game plan for yourself and your family from the financial impact of accidents. Contact an AXA financial advisor today to know more.

All the hard work you’ve put in to save up and build your wealth is a life milestone in itself. What’s more, if you’re running your own business, you have a “legacy-in-progress” of sorts. When you’re likewise a mom or your family’s breadwinner, your business is an essential means to earn so you can help your loved ones live a comfortable life. Unpredictability or sudden changes in life that women go through, however, is part of reality and may impact business, income, health, and relationships. Regardless of age and financial status, as long as you have an asset to protect, it only makes sense to start planning how to preserve your wealth and prepare should the worst happen.This is why entrepreneurs and business magnates plan to ensure their loved ones can live comfortably long after they're gone. They do this by taking decisive steps to protect their estate and equip the next generation with the knowledge and skills to manage it well. Here are three ways you can preserve wealth: 1. Educate your heirs on managing your wealth and business When we talk about wealth transfer, it’s not simply a question of how seamless or fast the transfer is, but also about how the wealth can be sustained by your heirs. Remember that you don’t only have financial assets to pass down, but values and philosophies that have helped you achieve or grow those financial assets. Without this, what you worked hard for many years could crumble overnight. Consider this as part of planning for wealth preservation to protect future generations.Financial literacy teaches one how to manage wealth from concepts, processes, to how-to's. Schools or financial coaches can help provide short courses, training programs, and online references to build up understanding on different financial topics. Unlike financial literacy, however, values are caught, not taught, and you can start instilling good values as early as now (or as your as your heirs are).Your wealth has a bigger narrative and storytelling is a powerful means of transferring values. Have those family conversations, create healthy connections, and lead a life consistent with what you teach. When the right time comes, you’ll have peace of mind that your wealth will be in capable hands.It's not easy to transfer to the next generation the business acumen you honed for decades. It may take years to even learn the basics, especially in running larger organizations.This is where having solid financial literacy as well as wealth and business management know-how come in. You may opt to involve your family in the business early on, so when the right time comes, you know it'll be in capable hands.2. Protect your health in case of emergencies While you may do everything you can to live healthier, unforeseen medical emergencies could significantly impact your wealth. Mounting hospital expenses could dry up your savings, which could create a financial strain on your loved ones and put their future at risk. This is why having a comprehensive health plan is important. It will allow you to continue leading a healthy life while ensuring you're adequately covered and can get the best healthcare when you need it.For example, AXA Philippines offers Global Health Access. It's ideal if you're looking for comprehensive health insurance in the Philippines for your healthcare needs. From common and serious illnesses to life-threatening pandemic diseases, Global Health Access has you covered whether here or abroad.Furthermore, Global Health Access offers up to P175 million in global medical coverage, along with the freedom to choose your doctor. You can also enjoy cashless transactions in over 1,400 hospitals and clinics in the country and 9,000 abroad. Also included are value-added services such as international emergency medical assistance and 24/7 access to health support and a global concierge.  3. Plan your retirement right away Nobody knows what the future holds. Because of this, lay out a detailed plan for your retirement while you are still young and able. While in the process of your retirement planning, ensure as well that your wealth and estate will be properly distributed when the time comes. This will help ensure a smooth transition of your assets to your rightful heirs who will properly preserve, manage, and distribute your wealth. Doing so avoids potential legal issues that may arise after you're gone. More importantly, careful estate planning will give you peace of mind knowing you'll be able to take care of your family whatever happens to you. Consider getting a product like AXA's all-around insurance plan MyLifeChoice. Having a MyLifeChoice plan lets you protect your income and plan ahead for your retirement. Through MyLifeChoice, invest your money in AXA’s Target Date Fund and maximize your investment’s growth potential as you approach your target retirement year. Moreover, you can enjoy a bonus equal to 70% of your first-year premium for long-term investment so you can keep building your retirement fund. It also offers flexible payment terms and provides coverage in case of untimely passing, accident, or critical illness so your family can keep living the life they deserve.With your income protected and secured, get that head start on your retirement plan towards preserving your wealth for the future of those who matter to you. By having all-around protection that includes life, health, and accident coverage together with smart estate planning, and well-prepared and educated heirs, rest assured that your legacy will remain intact whatever lies ahead. These are important investments you need to make together with your other financial decisions. Because whatever you do today will impact the life your loved ones will have tomorrow. Know you can game plan your retirement and the security of your family’s wealth. Get started by talking to an AXA financial partner partner online or follow our Facebook page.

You're an entrepreneur because you want to chase your passion. And by being one, you would have to commit long-term to make it happen. Your entrepreneurial journey is going to be one big learning curve, which is why it is best to come prepared to maximize every opportunity that comes your way. You will face different challenges, and experience is going to be your best teacher as you advance through different phases of your life. It may not be a walk in the park, but by navigating your finances smartly at every life stage, you can catapult your dream business to success. To give you an idea, we’ve gathered some of the money tips and life hacks you can use as your guide.College yearsEducation and future careers are the top priorities throughout this stage of exploration and learning. While parents or other people might be there to help and assist, it would be advantageous to learn how to budget and manage money this early. For young and aspiring entrepreneurs, this is a fantastic time to get started and determine what kind of business best fits their interests and skills. Some of the top universities in the country also provide students with programs that mentor and fund their company ideas while teaching them the skills needed to be successful entrepreneurs. Working yearsThe working years are typically a time of entering the corporate world and climbing the corporate ladder while managing your business. At this stage, your main life goals are usually related to your career and growth as a young businesswoman.If you plan to have both a corporate job and a business on the side, you have to manage your time and finances wisely. Juggling both responsibilities can be exhilarating, but with thorough planning and a winning attitude, it is possible to find success in both areas. In case your business becomes more profitable, you may consider leaving your corporate job to go full-time. In doing so, stay passionate and dedicated. Make sure to have a safety cushion to support you if ever things don’t go as planned. To ensure financial freedom, monitor your finances by listing down all your sources of income and all your expenses. Your budget should cover your essentials first, such as rent, food and utilities, before allocating it to your recreational activities. It is also a good practice to maintain separate bank accounts for your personal, corporate job and side business to track your funds better. Having a clear overview of your finances will help you understand where your money is going and identify areas where you can cut back if needed. Having multiple sources of income is a smart strategy that provides greater financial security. It will help you reach your financial goals faster, but you have to stay committed. There are other income streams as well that you can explore, like investing in stocks and mutual funds to help grow your wealth over time.Planning to have a familyWhen you reach this part of your journey, your priorities will start to shift. At this stage, your main life goals are focused on building your family, raising your kids, and securing your business lifeline.Having your own family comes with added financial responsibilities. It's essential to create a budget for the costs associated with raising children, such as healthcare, education, housing, and other necessities. You also have to save up for an emergency fund to sustain your family's needs in case of the unexpected. Ensuring that your business will continue to run smoothly and sustainably will take up most of your time. Getting support in managing your business can be handy to help you balance your time between your work and personal life.There are other ways as well to achieve financial security for your family while keeping your business afloat. This includes getting an educational plan for your kids and investing in different asset classes for long-term financial goals while starting your own retirement plan.Retirement years Your retirement years are known to be a time of relaxation and enjoyment. At this stage, your main life goals will usually be related to leisure activities, travel, and spending quality time with your family while keeping your business afloat. Create a budget that will cover the cost of these goals so you can enjoy them without sacrificing the financial gains of your business.When it comes to leisure activities, for instance, consider the cost of any hobbies or activities you may want to take part in, including the amount of equipment, frequency of classes you want to take, or fees for activities you want to join. For travel and spending time with family, consider the cost of activities or trips, including transportation, lodging, meals, tickets and other related expenses. This is also the time to review your savings account to ensure you have enough to maintain your lifestyle while preparing to pass on your business and other assets to the next generation. Preparing for the challenges that come with the entrepreneurial journey is essential for increasing the likelihood of turning your business into a success. Taking a proactive approach and being strategic with your money can provide financial security even to your grandkids.If you’re ready to start your business venture while being financially protected, consider having AXA as your financial partner in life. From offering an all-around insurance and investment plans tailored to your needs, preferences and lifestyle, AXA’s MyLifeChoice is ready to help make your money work for you.Know that you can game plan your way to be a successful entrepreneur any stage of life. Contact an AXA financial advisor today for more information.

Retirement is going to be one of the most exciting and fulfilling chapters of your life. It gives you the opportunity to explore new things, pursue other passions, and enjoy the fruits of your labor after years of managing your own business. To make the most of your retirement years, it is crucial to have a well-thought-out financial plan to pay for your necessities, leisure, and other expenses. While your business may be a significant asset, relying solely on it for your retirement income can be risky. This is why it is important to have a diversified pool of funds that will help sustain your lifestyle when you reach this life stage. By then, you can spend more quality time with your family while having a more relaxed and enjoyable work environment. This might be overwhelming to think about in your 30s, but if you want financial security when you retire, it is best to start planning it today. Doing so can help you make a roadmap to prepare you for the challenges of managing your business while saving up for your retirement fund. Here are some practical tips you can consider to secure a fund that will suit your retirement lifestyle:1. Evaluate and plan. If you want to have a comfortable retirement, having a financial game plan is key. Try to compute the estimated retirement fund you need in order to sustain your lifestyle. Write down that figure in your journal and work on it. Assess if the current income you’re generating from your business would be enough for you to save for your retirement fund. Through this, you can evaluate if you need to expand your business further, invest in stocks, or look for other sources of income to secure your financial freedom.2. Set realistic goals. As early as now, you have to identify your short-term and long-term goals. Do you plan to buy your own house or a car? How much will it cost to open more shops for your business? How much can you set aside for your insurance and investment plans? By doing so, you can lay out a detailed plan for achieving your personal and business goals while financially preparing for your retirement years.3. Smart debt management. Being a businesswoman, making loans for your business means further growth and success. Making loans can be essential in one’s business, because it helps companies manage their operational cash flow. This is normal for any thriving entrepreneur, but you must take into account how long you will be able to pay off these loans. You also need to consider your debts from personal purchases and prioritize ticking them off your list. If possible, be debt-free when you finally decide to retire because your loans can easily drain your retirement fund.4. Achieve financial security. While we can make a blueprint of the future we want to have, we cannot always control what lies ahead. Similarly, we don’t know how long our business can thrive in a world where change is the only thing constant. This is why it is important to be financially protected for any unforeseen financial mishap that can happen at any time. Consider getting AXA’s MyLifeChoice, an all-around insurance plan with an investment feature. This will help you achieve financial security while diversifying your investment portfolio for potential gains. Investing in stocks and mutual funds with the help of a fund manager, you can grow your savings and assets over time for your additional retirement fund.While your business is your priority at this age, begin thinking about your retirement preparations in earnest as well. Doing so can help ensure financial stability when you're older, taking the time to start building a plan now can make all the difference in the long run. Remember that you can start with small steps by saving up for a retirement fund and getting an insurance and investment plan. Know that you can game plan your way to a comfortable retirement with AXA’s MyLifeChoice. Contact an AXA financial advisor today for more information.

Let your loved ones preserve and grow the wealth you’ve worked hard for all your life. If, by any circumstance, you happen to juggle being a businesswoman and family woman, you would eventually want to pass on your business and ensure your family lives a comfortable life. The last will and testament often come to mind when discussing estate planning. This document stating the heirs and property distribution, however, needs to be validated by the court. Furthermore, it is only part of the equation. How one’s assets will be transferred is among several topics to be addressed in estate planning.Simply allocating your properties without proper planning and expert advice could burden your heirs with estate taxes and applicable obligations. For starters, the estate tax is 6% of the net estate since the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) law was implemented. This has to be paid within a specified period.Different rules and requirements also govern the handover of a specific property or asset. For example, transferring a real estate property such as an ancestral house to heirs is different from transferring stocks and bank accounts.Consider beginning your succession plan as soon as you have amassed real and personal properties of considerable value. This will give you enough time to explore your options and set things in order. Remember: There’s no minimum wealth requirement to get started on these matters. Starting as early as you can will help your estate planning be as smooth as possible.Here are some of the steps you can take to help make transferring an estate a lot more seamless:1. Life insurance. An insurance product designed for its intended purpose may be the most efficient way to leave a legacy.  Asset Master, an insurance-investment plan offered by AXA Philippines, helps ensure your loved ones enjoy the lifestyle you’d want for them even if you’re no longer around. Aside from the speedy release of the death benefit, proceeds from the insurance payout of irrevocable beneficiaries are tax-free. This disbursement may be used immediately to cover expenses related to the burial and transfer of titles.Asset Master allows you to invest in local and global funds and maximizes your plan’s earning potential. These funds include but not limited to, Peso-Denominated Dollar Funds, Global Assets Income Paying Fund, and Global Dynamic Allocation Funds.2. Distribution of liquidated properties. Some estate owners may consider selling the properties (real estate, vehicles, and other valuable possessions) while they’re still alive to ensure that the seamless allocation of the properties is carried out in their presence. Instead of estate tax, though, other obligations such as capital gains tax and donor’s tax should be considered when going with this route.Note that these are initial suggestions only. A topic as intricate as estate planning, of course, needs the guidance of an expert to spare your heirs from possible headaches, disputes, and unnecessary costs arising from a poorly planned estate succession.Know you can game plan your legacy today. Call an AXA financial advisor to know more about the right tools for planning your estate.

Having a physical commercial space for your business may be a complex process, but it can also be one of the most exciting parts of your entrepreneurial journey. Imagine your shop filled with satisfied customers after they purchase your products. For a businesswoman like you, this can be a fulfilling experience! Owning your brick-and-mortar store requires a proper and careful strategy because it entails a lot of time, effort, and cost. But if you plan to have one, here are some key considerations to keep in mind:1. Location and sizeChoosing the right location of your commercial space is a decision you need to think thoroughly. Consider factors like accessibility, visibility, proximity to your target market, and transportation options. Look for locations with high foot traffic, such as school campuses, busy streets, and shopping malls. Ensure that the commercial space is large enough to accommodate your operations, staff, equipment, and future expansion. Examine the layout as well and see if it aligns with your workflow. Getting the perfect location of your physical store can either make or break your business.  2. Terms and costDecide if you are going to rent or buy a space. Look at your resources and carefully review the terms for both options. It is also important to know all other additional fees such as maintenance, utilities, and taxes. Review and make sure that it is within your budget allocation to prevent you from compromising other important business costs. If you decide to rent, negotiate for favorable terms that suit your budget and long-term goals. Take your time to thoroughly research and visit multiple options before making your final decision. Finding a cost-effective commercial space can positively impact your daily operations and business growth. 3. Infrastructure and securityMake sure that your space has essential infrastructure in place for your business to run smoothly. These include reliable internet connectivity, proper ventilation, and adequate electrical outlets. Additionally, evaluate and assess other business facilities that you might need like an inventory, restrooms and meeting rooms. Ensure that the commercial space meets safety and security standards to prevent accidents from happening. Look for features like fire exits, security systems, and uncluttered common areas to provide a safe working environment for your employees. Remember that people will patronize your service and products if they feel relaxed and secured when they visit your store. Know you can game plan your dream of opening your first brick-and-mortar store with AXA’s property insurance plan. Contact an AXA financial advisor today for more information.

According to the MMDA’s latest Metro Manila Accident Reporting and Analysis System (MMARAS) annual report, there were 197 road crashes in Metro Manila in 2022. 52% of these cases involved private cars, which emphasizes the need for better observation of road safety when travelling, not only for passengers inside the vehicle, but also for other road users. To help promote safer driving practices, AXA has partnered with Toyota Motor Philippines to introduce Connected Toyota Insure (CTI), the first pay-how-you-drive car insurance product in the country which incentivizes safe driving.Customers can get a driving score via myToyota Connect, a new feature of myToyota App that links customers to their telematics-enabled Toyota vehicles using their smartphones. Key metrics for a trip score calculation includes acceleration, braking, and cornering. Data captured from every trip is mapped to a score on a scale of 0-100. Aggressive driving behavior like rapid/sudden acceleration, harsh braking, or harsh left/right turns are driving behavior data considered in the evaluation.With Connected Toyota Insure, a cutting-edge insurance product, safer driving traits reward the user with up to 25% savings on their renewal premium.By offering CTI, AXA intends to contribute to a safer and more secure environment with pay-how-you-drive insurance that utilizes connected cars and automobile big data on driver behavior.

Whether you are a working mom or a businesswoman, securing the financially stable golden years of your life requires careful planning. Entering your retirement year means stepping away from work or passing on your business to your heirs so you can take a break, focus on your well-being, and spend quality time with your family.This is everyone’s dream—to have a comfortable retirement, but it doesn’t just happen. While you are busy providing for your kids and supporting your aging parents, you would also have to think about your future. As part of the sandwich generation, it is not an easy task to juggle all these responsibilities. You also wouldn’t want to be a burden to your loved ones when you grow old. This is why it is important to start as early as you can to prepare and save up for your retirement fund.By being proactive as early as now, you can increase the likelihood of enjoying your golden years while seeing your business continue to grow, and witnessing your children and grandchildren live a good life. So here’s the plan:1. Budget, save, and invest. The earlier you begin saving and investing for your retirement, the better. Set a clear goal and determine how much money you need to save to enjoy your golden years. You also need to consider factors like healthcare costs, emergency funds, and inflation rates. Aside from the financial gains from your business, spread your money on investments in stocks, bonds, and real estate properties to maximize potential returns. You can also increase your retirement contributions to help you reach your retirement goals faster.2. Save for retirement wisely. When you're saving up for your retirement, it is important to consider the inflation rate. Over time, the purchasing power of your retirement savings diminishes due to inflation, which means that 10 or 20 years from now, the value of your money will not be the same.Running a successful business can generate income during your retirement years and provide a steady stream of revenue to support your lifestyle. While having a prosperous business can be a huge advantage, it is also important to invest in assets that have the potential to outperform inflation. Talk to a financial advisor who can give you the best advice on where to invest to mitigate the impact of inflation on your retirement fund.3. Regularly reassess your finances and investments. Securing a comfortable retirement means looking at your finances regularly and being updated with the latest market trends. As you approach retirement age, it's essential to assess your businesses, assets, and other properties and align them with your goals. Monitor your debt and loans, if you have them, and make sure that you are financially capable of paying them before entering your golden years. Revisit your retirement goals and see if you can attain them without being a burden to your family.4. Get an all-around insurance plan. Working hard to ensure the success of your business is a feat on its own. You have invested a great deal of skills, effort, and time to provide for yourself and your family. Of course, you would want to have a comfortable life with them as you enter your retirement years. By this time, it’s also favorable if you already have an insurance plan that will serve as income protection for your loved ones if anything unfortunate happens and an investment plan where you can potentially grow your savings and assets over time. But if you don’t have one yet, don’t worry because with AXA’s MyLifeChoice, you can have both. With this all-around insurance plan, you can also invest in bonds with maturities including short-term (1-3 years), intermediate-term (3-10 years), and long-term (10+ years) depending on your risk tolerance. By diversifying your portfolio into different investment funds, you can spread the risk of loss and improve your overall investment returns for your retirement fund   You deserve to enjoy and savor your fruits of labor after working so hard managing your business to provide for your loved ones.AXA is your financial partner on your journey to your golden years. With its wide range of flexible savings and investment plans and life insurance products tailored to Filipinos’ lifestyles and needs, you can live every day with peace of mind knowing you are taken care of.Know you can game plan your way to prosperous golden years with AXA’s MyLifeChoice. Contact an AXA financial advisor today for more information.

Recognizing symptoms is the best way to diagnose ovarian cancer quickly and accuratelyBy: Preferred Global Health Many of us are aware of breast cancer, but far fewer know about ovarian cancer.Last May 8 was World Ovarian Cancer Day. Voices across the planet rose together, in virtual and real-life spaces, to raise awareness about the hard facts of this disease. Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month continues to be observed throughout May and we stand in solidarity with sisters, mothers, daughters, titas, and friends to make ovarian cancer a global priority.Raising awareness is essential to getting the right kind of care especially when symptoms can easily be misdiagnosed as other illnesses. Like all cancers, early detection is key to increasing survival rates.An umbrella term‘Ovarian cancer’ is not a singular diagnosis. There are more than 30 different types of ovarian cancers that can affect the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and the primary peritoneal cavity. Different ovarian cancer tumors are named after the type of cell they come from.The most common type, Epithelial ovarian cancer, comes from the surface of the ovary (the epithelium). Fallopian tube cancer and primary peritoneal cancer are also included in this type of ovarian cancer. Rarer cancers include germ cell ovarian cancer, stromal cells ovarian cancer, and small cell carcinoma of the ovary.Late diagnosis Ovarian cancer is the most lethal type of cancer in females. Cervical smear tests, or pap tests, that are the screening tests for cervical cancer but they do not detect ovarian cancer. It is not uncommon to hear stories where it takes years to be diagnosed. Late-stage diagnosis can often mean the cancer has spread throughout the body and there is a small chance of treatment success.  Unfortunately, it is also possible to develop ovarian cancer without having any of the above risk factors. For this reason, all women should follow established recommendations for gynecologic and breast health: regular exercise, maintenance of an ideal body weight, minimal alcohol intake, and regular monitoring. These offer the best chance of keeping cancer risk at a minimum. Detection and testingThe pathway to diagnosing ovarian cancer includes a pelvic exam (or an internal vaginal examination), a transvaginal or pelvic ultrasound, and a blood test that checks for raised levels of a protein called CA125. In some cases, doctors may also use a CT scan or PET scan to arrive at a diagnosis. Sometimes, swelling or bloating of the abdomen is caused by a build-up of fluid, called ascites. Doctors may take a sample of this fluid to check for cancer cells.The only definitive way to determine if a woman has ovarian cancer is through a biopsy, where a small sample of tissue is taken to be examined under a microscope at the laboratory.  TreatmentConsulting a multidisciplinary team of specialists would be a best practice to arrive at the most suitable course of treatment. Because of the complexities of ovarian cancer subtypes, it is important that treatment be carried out by a hospital or cancer center with an experienced team of gynecologic cancer experts.Treatment is based on type of cancer, its stage (borderline, stages 1-4, or cancer that comes back), where it is or has spread, general health, and personal preferences. Common treatments options are surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy and targeted therapies which are engineered to kill cancer cells and spare healthy ones by interfering with the ways cells grow and targeting cells that cancer cells are dependent on.Important questions to askUnderstanding different treatments, their side effects, and engaging in conversations about it are important things to consider when making treatment decisions. Ovarian cancer treatments can cause early menopause or affect fertility so it is important that doctors are informed about any possible desire for future pregnancy before undergoing treatment.Act nowIf you or someone you know are experiencing symptoms or are concerned about ovarian cancer, it is best to act quickly and speak to your doctor. If a primary doctor is concerned, they will arrange for you to see a specialist doctor, usually a gynecologist.If symptoms persist after a gastrointestinal diagnosis, make sure to seek further professional medical investigation. If you have a family history of ovarian, breast, or related cancers, speak to your health care providers to find out if you are eligible for genetic counselling and testing. Cancer and other critical illnesses are not to be taken lightly since these can come unexpectedly. In such cases, AXA’s wide range of health solutions covering critical illnesses can help you prepare. Find out more by visiting AXA’s health products page: https://www.axa.com.ph/products/health-and-critical-illness or reach out to an AXA financial partner. Preferred Global Health (PGH), a global patient organization based in Boston, USA, is a valued partner of AXA’s Preferred Consultation and Care (PCC) service. The partnership between AXA Philippines and PGH gives eligible AXA policyholders access to PCC where they can get expert advice for diagnosis verification and treatment plans from highly experienced Harvard-affiliated doctors. It provides patients the opportunity to make informed decisions in case of diagnosis of cancer and heart diseases.__________________________[1] World Ovarian Cancer Coalition, Symptoms & Risks. https://worldovariancancercoalition.org/about-ovarian-cancer/symptoms-risk-factors/signs-symptoms/

Boston-based global patient organization Preferred Global Health Ltd. shares tips to keep your heart holiday healthy.The holiday period is a time that brings people together, sharing festive meals and affection with loved ones. It can also be a time of added stress due to a busy schedule or awakened somber feelings. The prospect of a ‘COVID Christmas season’ and uncertainty over what 2021 has in store can affect our emotional, mental, and physical health. With a positive outlook, gratitude, and re-framing, it is possible to take this opportunity to make the best of the situation and implement real self-care and healthy lifestyle practices, with extra attention to our heart’s health. Heart disease is the number one cause of death in the Philippines. This silent killer can be influenced by hereditary factors, but above all, it is lifestyle habits and behaviors that has the biggest impact on risk and not only for heart attacks but also for pre-existing cardiovascular conditions like high cholesterol, diabetes, obesity, and hypertension. For these reasons, it is important to be extra mindful during the holidays and not put off until tomorrow, or postpone for yet another New Year’s resolution, the small changes and alternatives that can protect you and your family’s health.Why the holidays are hazardous to your heart healthStudies have shown that there is a higher risk of heart attack during Christmas and the New Year's holidays. A study in Sweden investigating the exact timing and date of heart attacks over a 16-year period found a 37% increased risk on Christmas Eve (the main day of celebration), peaking at around 10pm. The risk was greatest for people over the age of 75 and those with diabetes and heart disease. Researchers in the United States examining visits to the hospital for cardiac failure also found these went up by 33% and 30% during the four days after Christmas and New Year’s respectively.  A warmer climate does not improve these statistics. Investigators looking at 25 years of mortality data in  New Zealand, to examine if weather was a factor, found that heart attacks also spike in places where Christmas occurs during the summer season. While the authors of these longitudinal observational studies cannot draw out firm conclusions of cause and effect, they discuss likely common factors such as: ·         heavy drinking and overindulgence ·         experiences of anger, anxiety, sadness, grief, and stress ·         changes in physical environment, like visiting relatives or new places that lead to delays in seeking medical treatmentThree areas to improve your heart’s health this holiday seasonYou can have a heart healthy Christmas season by introducing small lifestyle changes that will help lower the risk of heart attack and have positive emotional impacts as well. ·         Diet: Consider cooking smaller quantities of food for the holidays and make heart healthy choices while cooking. Christmas dishes are known for being high in fats and sugars, so if you want to preserve traditions, maybe introduce a smaller “tapas” style way of eating with less leftovers. Instead of grazing and snacking throughout the afternoon or evening, consider substituting chips and cheese with options like vegetables, edamame beans, nuts, and baked chips instead of fried food. During the holidays, it is tempting to extend one dinner into multiple days of heavy eating, so instead try to eat more colorful vegetables and fruits and introduce some lighter variety into your diet. You can swap red meat for legumes that are high in B vitamins, minerals, and protein, like lentils and beans or fish. Eating seeds like flaxseeds and chia seeds containing omega-3, fiber and phytoestrogens is another good way to boost heart health. Avoid sodium, fried foods, dairy products high in fat, and saturated and trans fats, including cooking with butter, coconut oil or ghee (a type of butter).Try to make small changes, whether it’s switching to a low-fat milk, using oats for breakfast instead of sugary cereals, avoiding sugary juices and sodas, and baking/grilling your food instead of frying.For desserts, try having one festive sweet thing, rather than a variety of ice cream, , cakes, and other desserts. Maybe enjoy a healthier version of your favorite recipe.  When it comes to chocolate, the higher the percentage of cacao, the better. If you are a fan of milk chocolate, start at least with 70% cocoa.Consume moderate sensible amounts of alcohol and, if you smoke, consider stopping or cutting back to help support your circulatory system and lungs.·         Movement: Find ways to move and increase the blood circulation and connect with your breathing and body. Exercise is one of the best ways to lower blood pressure and address high blood pressure (hypertension) that increases with age. You don’t have to be at the gym or run a marathon to introduce regular physical activities that increase your heart and breathing rates (aerobic activity) into your routine. Aim for about 30 minutes a day, and this can be climbing stairs, bicycling, household gardening or scrubbing floors, or more active sports like, jogging or swimming. Introduce a new tradition of taking a walk around the neighborhood before or after dinner. Or, have a dance party at home or on Zoom.Yoga or stretching in the morning and evenings will bring awareness to your body, help you unwind and bring physical and emotional space. If you are feeling active, there are many 15-20 minute workouts on platforms like YouTube or Instagram to make you break a sweat. Any way to get your body moving and blood circulating will do wonders!Weight training also has long-term benefits to blood pressure. While it causes a temporary increase in blood pressure during exercise, depending on how much weight you lift, the positive impact outweighs the risk of the temporary spike for most people, but speak to your doctor. Remember to not hold your breath, try repetitions of lighter weights, and listen to your body. With all exercise activities, always stop if you feel dizzy, about to faint or if there’s any pain or tightness you experience in the chest, neck, or jaw.·         Stress:  Having a smaller number of guests not only minimizes the stress of hosting, it also helps prevent the spread of COVID-19. Exercising is another way to help manage stress. These times may impede us from gathering in large numbers socially, but they also give the opportunity to refocus our attention and give it generously, even if it is on a phone or videocall. Swapping expensive gifts for thoughtful exchanges helps financial management as well.While it is important to maintain tradition and routine as much as possible at the end of what has been a challenging year, it is also important to protect your heart. Ensure optimal health as you welcome the new year. Take this opportunity to make new traditions and implement or preserve healthy lifestyle habits that strengthen you and your family’s heart health, whilst keeping in the spirit of the season.To enjoy the season much more, it pays to know that you have a health insurance that can cover medical expenses, whether these issues occur in or out of the context of the holidays. Health Max from AXA Philippines is a comprehensive health plan that offers coverage for major and minor illnesses, including heart disease.Learn more about Health Max here: https://www.axa.com.ph/products/health-and-critical-illness/health-max

AXA, the official insurance partner of the NBA, is here to help you bounce back and move forward. Talk to an AXA financial partner, create a winning game plan, and be rewarded! Join the promo in three easy steps:1. Set your preferred consultation schedule with an AXA financial partner. Fill out the appointment booking form here: bit.ly/axanbabounceback 2. Expect a call from an AXA financial partner. He/she will help you create your winning game plan so you can bounce back and move forward.3. Get exciting rewards. The following prizes will be sent to your registered email on or before September 30, 2020:• Personal accident insurance with P50,000 coverage valid for one year• One-time free access to MyPocketDoctor, a medical teleconsultation appAXA PHILIPPINES NBA BOUNCE BACK PROMOTION FAQs:1. What is the promo all about?AXA, the official insurance partner of the NBA is running a promotion that aims to help you bounce back. By talking to an AXA financial partner, you will get a free personal accident insurance with P50,000 coverage valid for one year and a one-time free access to MyPocketDoctor, a medical advisory app that provides you with quick and easy access to doctors through teleconsultation. 2. How do I join the promo?To join, simply follow the steps below:ACTIVITY1. Set an appointment with an AXA financial partner here: bit.ly/axanbabounceback2. Expect a call from an AXA financial partner. Make sure to answer his/her call and go through the financial needs analysis.3. Receive your rewards on or before September 30, 2020.3. Who are eligible to join this promo?This promo is open to all Filipinos residing in the Philippines, aged 18 and above. AXA Philippines employees, Charter Ping An employees, and NBA Entities employees are not eligible to join this promo.4. Can I just go to the AXA website and fill out the appointment booking form?You must click bit.ly/axanbabounceback or any of AXA Philippines’ social media post or ads communicating the promo. If you just want to set an appointment, you can still do so via the AXA website. However, you will not be entitled to the rewards mentioned above.5. Can I set an appointment multiple times to get prizes more than once?No. You can only get the rewards once.6. What will I get if I join the promotion?Once you successfully talked to an AXA financial partner, you are entitled to receive the following:i. One (1) personal accident insurance policy with P50,000 coverage valid for one yearii. One-time free access to medical teleconsultation via MyPocketDoctor app7. How will I know if I should receive the rewards?As long as you followed the necessary steps indicated in item #2, you are eligible to receive the rewards.8. How do I claim my rewards?Your rewards will be sent to your registered e-mail on or before September 30, 2020. TERMS AND CONDITIONS :1. The AXA Philippines Bounce Back Campaign (the “Promotion / Promo”) conducted by AXA Philippines (the “Company”) will happen from July 25, 2020 to September 20, 2020 (the “Promotion Period”) is open only to Filipinos aged 18 and above residing in the Philippines.2. ELIGIBILITY: The Promotion is only open to Filipinos aged 18 and above residing in the Philippines. Employees of AXA Philippines and Charter Ping An Insurance Corporation (“Sponsor"), NBA Properties, Inc., the National Basketball Association ("NBA") and its member teams (collectively, the "NBA Entities"), and their respective parent companies, subsidiaries, affiliates, dealerships, governors, related entities, partners, partnerships, principals, licensees, sponsors, and advertising/promotion agencies and all of their respective officers, directors, employees, agents, representatives, successors and assigns and their immediate families (parents, spouses, children and siblings and their respective spouses, regardless of where they reside), and household members, whether or not related, are not eligible to enter or win. This Promo shall be void where prohibited by law. Subject to all applicable federal, state and local laws. The information you provide as detailed below will only be used for Promotion purposes.3. By joining the Promotion, participants can get a chance to win different prizes from the Company. 4. To earn prizes and/or raffle entries, a participant can join the Promotion by following the steps below:a. Fill-out the “AXA Appointment Booking” form by clicking bit.ly/axanbabounceback or the other links related to this Promotion which can be found on AXA Philippines’ social media accounts and/or digital ads. b. Answer the call of the financial expert and go through the financial needs analysis on the date and time indicated in the appointment booking form.5. A participant can fill-out the form and win prizes only once; submitting a new form or duplicate entries will not result to additional prizes and/or raffle entries. 6. On or before the promotion end-date (September 30, 2020), the participant will receive the following from AXA via their registered e-mail:i. One (1) PHP50,000 Personal Accident Insurance valid for one year• subject to standard Terms and Conditions and Exclusions found on: https://www.axa.com.ph/pacardii. One-time FREE access to MyPocketDoctor• PIN code should be activated within 60 days7. All other costs and fees such as but not limited to transportation fees, mobile internet fees, allowances, and/or other fees that may be incurred in relation to the claiming and/or use of the prize shall be shouldered by the winner.8. Redemption of Prizes:i. Winners will receive their prizes with instructions on how to use/activate via e-mail and/or SMS through the contact information they entered in the form.ii. Successful delivery of the e-mail and/or SMS constitutes acceptance of the prize(s).iii. In case the e-mail bounces or the SMS is undeliverable, AXA Philippines will attempt to resend the message once. Should it fail for the second time, AXA Philippines reserves the right to draw another winner or to forfeit the prize(s).iv. AXA Philippines reserves the right to conduct further validation and/or verification before awarding the prize(s).9. All unclaimed/expired prizes will be forfeited in favor of AXA.10. All prizes are non-transferrable.11. Selling of the prizes through different channels such as but not limited to digital market places, online and social media channels and groups, offline channels is prohibited. If found guilty or in violation, AXA Philippines reserves the right to forfeit the prize.12. A participant can only win once for the whole duration of the program.13. Submission of an entry caption constitutes acceptance of the contest rules and a waiver of any and all claims against AXA Philippines and the NBA Entities related to the contest.14. Eligibility will be determined in accordance with these rules by the Sponsor, whose decisions are final in all matters relating to the Contest. Odds of winning the prize depend on the number of participating eligible entrants. In the event of non-compliance within any of the rules of the Promotion, the prize will be forfeited as against the relevant entrant. In the event that no eligible entries are submitted, AXA PHILIPPINES will not give away the prize. The Sponsor reserves the right to substitute a prize for one of equal or greater value if the designated prize or any portion thereof should become unavailable for any reason.15. Definition of NBA Entities: NBA Properties, Inc., the National Basketball Association (the “NBA”), and the NBA member teams (collectively, the “NBA Entities”)16. Limitation of Liability: By participating in this Promotion, a Participant agrees and undertakes to release from any liability or hold free and harmless AXA Philippines and the NBA Entities and each of their respective parent companies, subsidiaries, affiliates, officers, directors, employees, governors, owners, distributors, retailers, agents, assignees, advertising/promotion agencies, representatives, and agents (“Released Parties”) from any claim, action, liability, loss, injury or damage, including, without limitation, personal injury or death to winner or any third party or damage to personal or real property due in whole or in part, directly or indirectly, by any reason, including the acceptance, possession, use or misuse of the prize and/or participation in this promotion.Likewise, Participants agree that the Released Parties are not responsible for lost, late or misdirected mail, miscommunications, entries, failed telephone, satellite or cable hardware or software or lines, or technical failure, or jumbled, scrambled, delayed, or misdirected transmissions, failures or difficulties, or other errors of any kind whether human, mechanical, electronic or network. Entrants who tamper with or abuse any aspect of this Contest, or act in violation of the Rules, Terms and Condition of the Promotion, or act in any manner to threaten or abuse or harass any person in relation to this Contest, as determined by The AXA Philippines in its sole discretion, will be disqualified. Any attempt by a person to deliberately damage or undermine the legitimate operation of the Contest might be a violation of criminal and civil laws andAXA Philippines reserve the right to seek legal action and/or damages from any such person to the fullest extent of the law. Released Parties are not responsible for injury or damage to participants’ or any other persons’ property related to or resulting from participating in this Contest. AXA Philippines will resolve all disputes in their discretion. No responsibility is assumed by any of the Released Parties hereunder for any error, including typographical and/or technological error, omission, interruption, deletion, defect, delay in operation, theft or destruction or unauthorized access to, or alteration of electronic data; or any other problems in connection with the promotion, including, but not limited to, technical malfunctions in the posting of the rules on-line or the functionality of any website or web service. Any trade names, trademarks or service marks shown as part of the materials associated with the Promotion are the property of their respective owners. The invalidity or unenforceability of any provision of these rules shall not affect the validity or enforceability of any other provision. In the event that any such provision is determined to be invalid or otherwise unenforceable, these rules shall be construed in accordance with their terms as if the invalid or unenforceable provision was not contained therein. 17. Publicity. Right of Publicity Release: By participating, Participants in this promotion agree to be bound by these rules, terms and conditions and mechanics of the Promotion, and agree that AXA Philippines, the NBA Entities and their affiliates and assigns may use the participant’s name, voice, city/state of residence, photos, video or film clips, and/or other visual likeness for advertising and/or trade purposes and/or for any other purpose in any media or format now or hereafter known without further compensation (financial or otherwise), permission or notification.18. Subject to applicable laws, AXA Philippines makes no warranties, and hereby disclaims any and all warranties, express or implied, concerning the prize given in connection with this promo. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, the prize is provided “as is” without warranty of any kind, either express or implied, including but not limited to the implied warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose.19. AXA Philippines reserves the right to reject entries deemed inappropriate as detailed in our Privacy Policy and contest rules. 20. Any dispute will be subject to the final decision of AXA Philippines.21. AXA Philippines may change the dates and/or terms of the contest without prior notice.22. Participants in this promotion (if minor, his/her parent or legal guardian) agree to be bound by the rules, terms and conditions, and mechanics of the Promotion.23. Governing Law. All issues and questions concerning the construction, validity, interpretation and enforceability of these Official Rules, or the rights and obligations of any participant and/or entrant, will be governed by, and construed in accordance with, the laws of the Philippines.24. Sponsor. AXA Philippines, 34F GT Tower International, 6813 Ayala Ave cor HV Dela Costa St. Makati City 1226. 25. List of Winners: For the names of the winners, please request by email to customer.service@axa.com.ph no later than October 15, 2020.