Jean Galea

Health, Wealth, Relationships, Wisdom

Fintown Review 2025 – Invest in AirBnB Apartments in Prague

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Open a Fintown account

Fintown is an investment platform powered by Vihorev Group (more than 10 years of experience in the Czech real estate market) that provides investors with convenient and safer opportunities to invest in real estate developments across Europe, with a special focus on Prague, the capital city of the Czech Republic. The platform aims to make real estate investing more accessible to individual investors, enabling them to diversify their portfolios and benefit from the potentially high returns of property investments.

Account Opening and Verification

My experience with Fintown began with the account opening process, which I found to be user-friendly and efficient. The platform required me to provide some basic personal information and upload a copy of my identification document for verification purposes. The verification process took a few days, which I considered reasonable given the importance of ensuring investor security.

Once I got verified, I was able to deposit euros, which is the only currency available for deposits on Fintown. You can start off with as little as €50.

User Interface and Experience

Once my account was verified, I gained access to the Fintown platform’s dashboard. I found the user interface to be clean and intuitive, making it easy to navigate and manage my investments. The platform offers a seamless user experience, with clear navigation menus and quick access to essential features like the investment marketplace, portfolio overview, and transaction history.

Flexibility is one of the platform’s major selling points, with the emphasis being on exiting an investment easily, gaining daily interest accrual (rather than say, monthly, which would reduce exit flexibility), and 0% commissions on deposits and withdrawals of cash. There are also no fees for participating in an investment.

Investment Options on Fintown

Fintown’s primary focus is on real estate investments, offering a range of opportunities for investors to participate in European property development projects. The platform carefully vets and selects projects based on factors such as location, potential returns, and overall risk. This allows investors like myself to have confidence in the investment opportunities presented.

Many of the projects are rental apartments in Prague (Czech Republic). This is perfect for those who want exposure to this burgeoning economy.

The minimum investment is €50 and there are no investment fees. You will be glad to know that the team invests at least 20% of their own funds in every project, meaning they have skin-in-the-game.

The available investments generate between 9% and 12% yearly yield and pay monthly interest, which is pretty good.

Types of Real Estate Offered

The real estate investment opportunities on Fintown cover various types of projects, but mostly short-term rental apartments in Prague, the capital city. Specifically, the apartments are located in the Smichov District. You can view several of the apartments on Booking.com and view for yourself the level of reviews for these properties. Here’s one example

The short-term rental market in Prague has experienced significant changes in recent years. Following the global pandemic in 2020, the short-term rental market, particularly Airbnb-style accommodations, faced a substantial drop in demand due to lockdowns, travel restrictions, and social distancing measures. However, as travel restrictions have eased and the world has gradually adapted to the new normal, the short-term rental market in Prague is rebounding and showing positive signs of growth.

One of the factors contributing to the good prospects of short-term rentals in Prague is the city’s enduring appeal as a tourist destination. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture, Prague continues to attract millions of tourists every year. As international travel resumes, the demand for short-term rentals is expected to increase, offering property owners and investors opportunities to capitalize on this growing market.

Additionally, the rising prices of real estate in Prague have contributed to the overall appeal of short-term rentals. With property prices increasing, purchasing a property for short-term rental purposes has become an attractive investment option for many investors, both domestic and international. The prospect of earning a higher return on investment compared to long-term rentals has further fueled interest in this market segment.

Moreover, the city’s thriving startup scene and the growing number of international companies establishing their presence in Prague have increased the demand for temporary housing for business travelers and remote workers. This trend further strengthens the prospects of the short-term rental market, as professionals seeking comfortable and flexible accommodation options often prefer short-term rentals over hotels.

All these factors make investing in short-term rentals in Prague very attractive at the moment, and Fintown offers one of the easiest ways to get exposure to this market.

Promoting its Own Projects – Good or Bad?

One common criticism of Fintown is that the platform advertises its own projects. However, this approach can be a significant advantage for investors. By promoting its own ventures, Fintown ensures that it has a direct stake in the success of each project, aligning its interests with those of the investors. This means Fintown is not merely a broker of third-party deals; it actively manages, controls, and invests in the projects it offers, creating a higher level of accountability and transparency.

Investment Process

Investing in real estate developments through Fintown was straightforward. Once I had reviewed the available projects and identified one that aligned with my investment objectives, I simply had to decide on the amount I wished to invest and complete the transaction. The platform also provides updates on project progress, keeping me informed about how my investments are performing.

There are two formats for investing, mezzanine loans and participative loans.

A mezzanine loan is a type of unsecured subordinated debt, which implies that in the event of borrower default, the borrower’s assets will be liquidated to repay a senior loan (such as a mortgage) before addressing other obligations, including subordinated debt.

A participative loan is a type of debt extended to a borrower in which the lender shares both the income generated and the losses resulting from the loan agreement.

Both types of investments carry a higher risk compared to loans secured by a mortgage.

Returns and Exit Strategy

One of the key considerations for any real estate investment is the potential return on investment and the exit strategy. Fintown projects typically offer attractive returns, with the platform aiming to provide investors with a combination of capital appreciation and rental income, depending on the nature of the project. As for the exit strategy, Fintown usually outlines the projected timeline for each investment, giving me a clear idea of when I can expect to realize my returns.

Each project featured on Fintown has a specified minimum term, which indicates the lock-up period for your funds.

These terms range from 9 to 24 months. Once the period concludes, you have the option to withdraw your funds at no additional charge whenever you choose.

Should you decide to exit your investment prior to the loan term’s completion, you can submit a request directly through the platform. However, note that Fintown will assess an exit fee based on the remaining duration of the term.

Fintown VIP Club

Fintown’s VIP Club is an exclusive program designed to reward its dedicated investors with bonus interest on their total invested amount. This initiative stands out as it offers additional interest irrespective of the specific projects one invests in.

Benefits at a Glance:

  • Investments ranging from €10,000 to €29,999 earn an extra 0.5% p.a. interest on the total amount.
  • Investments exceeding €30,000 are entitled to a 1% p.a. bonus interest.

Eligibility and Terms:

  • Any investor who commits €10,000 or more is immediately eligible for the VIP Club, with no other conditions.
  • The program calculates bonuses based on the total investment, not individual transactions.
  • After a 12-month holding period, members can decide to reinvest or withdraw their accrued bonuses.
  • As long as the investment stays above €10,000 post the 12-month period, bonuses will keep accumulating and can be withdrawn whenever desired.
  • However, if due to partial withdrawals, the balance drops to between €10,000 and €29,999 from an initial €30,000 or more, the bonus interest rate will decrease from 1% to 0.5%.
  • If an investor’s balance goes below €10,000 post-withdrawal, their VIP Club benefits will be halted, and any related earnings will cease.

Fintown’s VIP Club is an enticing proposition for investors looking to diversify their portfolios. By reaching the €10K or €30K investment thresholds, members are instantly rewarded with an additional interest percentage. This program not only incentivizes higher investments but also ensures that dedicated investors receive tangible benefits for their commitment. Join the VIP Club by clicking this link.

Customer Support

During my time using Fintown, I had a few occasions to interact with their customer support team. I found them to be responsive and helpful in addressing my concerns and questions. They were knowledgeable about the platform and its features, ensuring that I received accurate information and guidance when needed.

One of the interesting things I chatted with them about was the Czech market, so this helped me to learn more about the market there, specifically in Prague, and how investors are generating good returns due to the favorable conditions there.

Alternative Platforms

While I’ve had a positive experience with Fintown, it’s always a good idea to explore alternative investment platforms to find the best fit for your individual needs. Here are a few other platforms that you may want to consider:

  1. EstateGuru: EstateGuru is a European real estate crowdfunding platform that offers investors the opportunity to invest in property-backed loans, providing a different approach to real estate investing.
  2. CrowdProperty: CrowdProperty is a UK-based peer-to-peer lending platform that specializes in property development financing, allowing investors to fund projects in exchange for attractive returns.

In conclusion, my experience with Fintown has been positive overall. The platform provides a unique opportunity for investors to participate in real estate projects in the Czech Republic as well as potentially in other countries in Europe. They offer carefully selected investment opportunities and a user-friendly experience. Although there are some limitations, such as the platform’s exclusive focus on real estate investments, I believe Fintown is a valuable addition to my investment portfolio.

Invest on Fintown

The Tax Advantages of Cyprus (Corporate Setup, Non-Dom, and more)

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cyprus tax

In this article, I will discuss some of the benefits of Cyprus for living and for tax optimization. I will also share some of the typical cases I see where Cyprus is used in a tax optimization (and also lifestyle optimization) context.

Cyprus is known as a nice place; it’s a sizeable island in the Mediterranean, which means you can expect:

  1. A beautiful and diverse environment: live and work in a stunning Mediterranean setting, with beautiful beaches, rugged mountains, and picturesque villages.
  2. Safe and secure living: Cyprus is known for its low crime rates and high safety standards, making it an ideal choice for remote workers seeking a secure environment.
  3. Affordable cost of living: Despite its many attractions, Cyprus maintains a relatively low cost of living compared to other European countries.
  4. High-speed internet and modern infrastructure: Cyprus has invested significantly in its telecommunication infrastructure, offering high-speed internet access and reliable mobile networks throughout the island.
  5. Rich history and culture: Cyprus boasts a fascinating history, with influences from various civilizations that have left their mark on the island’s architecture, cuisine, and traditions.
  6. Strategic location: Cyprus’s geographic position at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa makes it a convenient base to explore nearby destinations.
  7. Warm and welcoming community: Cypriots are known for their hospitality and friendly nature, ensuring a warm welcome for digital nomads.

Beyond being a nice place to live, it has some very interesting tax benefits. Here are some interesting facts about the Cypriot tax code:

  1. Low corporate tax rate: Cyprus has a relatively low corporate tax rate of 12.5%, making it attractive for companies looking to reduce their tax liabilities.
  2. Holding companies: Cyprus is an ideal location for establishing a holding company. Dividend income received by a Cyprus holding company from qualifying subsidiaries is generally exempt from taxes. Additionally, Cyprus does not levy withholding tax on dividend payments to non-resident shareholders.
  3. Intellectual property (IP) regime: Cyprus has an attractive IP tax regime that offers an 80% tax exemption on qualifying profits generated from the use, sale, or licensing of IP assets. This results in an effective tax rate of around 2.5% on IP-related income.
  4. Double taxation treaties: Cyprus has a wide network of double tax treaties with over 60 countries, which can help minimize tax liabilities by reducing or eliminating withholding taxes on dividends, interest, and royalty payments.
  5. No controlled foreign company (CFC) rules: Cyprus does not have any CFC rules in place, making it easier for businesses to establish and manage subsidiaries in other jurisdictions without facing additional tax consequences.
  6. Re-domiciliation provisions: Cyprus allows companies incorporated in other jurisdictions to re-domicile to Cyprus, potentially benefiting from the country’s favorable tax regime.
  7. No capital gains tax (except for immovable property): Capital gains derived from the sale of securities, such as shares or bonds, are generally exempt from taxation in Cyprus, except for gains derived from the sale of immovable property situated in the country.

Who is Cyprus For?

Given some of the advantages Cyprus offers, these are the most common types of people and setups that involve Cyprus:

  • Stock traders and investors
  • High Net Worth Individuals (the Non-Dom scheme)
  • Corporate setups (12.5% tax)
  • Digital Nomads

A Haven for Stock Traders and Investors

Cyprus is obviously an attractive location for stock traders due to the absence of taxation on the sale of securities.

This includes shares, bonds, debentures, options, and other financial instruments. Profits realized from trading these securities are exempt from capital gains tax in Cyprus, as long as the income does not arise from the disposal of immovable property situated in Cyprus or from the disposal of shares in companies that own immovable property in the country.

It is important to note that the tax exemption applies to both residents and non-residents of Cyprus. This means that foreign stock traders can also benefit from the absence of capital gains tax on security sales, provided they meet the necessary requirements and comply with relevant regulations. Typically, foreign stock traders can do this by establishing a Cyprus-based company to carry out their trading activities. Since Cyprus does not impose capital gains tax on the sale of securities, any gains derived from the sale of securities (such as shares, bonds, or options) will not be subject to capital gains tax. These tax-free gains would then be included in the company’s net trading profits, which would then be subject to the 12.5% corporate tax rate.

High Net Worth Individuals – The Non-Dom Scheme

The Cyprus Non-Dom scheme refers to a set of tax incentives designed to attract high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) and professionals to Cyprus by offering favorable tax treatment for individuals who become tax residents but are considered non-domiciled in the country. The non-domicile status provides substantial tax benefits for those who qualify, making Cyprus an attractive destination for HNWIs and expatriates. This programme is similar to others in place around Europe, the most well-known of which is the Portuguese NHR.

Key aspects of the Cyprus Non-Dom scheme:

  1. No tax on dividends and interest income: Non-domiciled individuals are exempt from Special Defense Contribution (SDC) tax, which is levied on dividend and interest income for Cyprus tax residents. This means that non-doms can receive dividend and interest income from both local and foreign sources without being subject to tax in Cyprus.
  2. No capital gains tax on the sale of securities: As mentioned earlier, Cyprus does not impose capital gains tax on the sale of securities, such as shares, bonds, or options, for both residents and non-residents. This exemption also applies to non-domiciled individuals, making the country attractive for investors and traders.
  3. Low personal income tax rates: Cyprus offers competitive personal income tax rates, with progressive rates ranging from 0% to 35%. Non-domiciled individuals can benefit from these rates while enjoying the exemptions on dividends and interest income.
  4. 50% exemption for high earners: Individuals who were not Cyprus residents before commencing employment in the country and have an annual income exceeding €100,000 from their employment in Cyprus may be eligible for a 50% exemption on their income for up to 10 years.
  5. 183-day rule for tax residency: To become a Cyprus tax resident, an individual needs to spend at least 183 days in the country within a calendar year. Once an individual meets this requirement, they can benefit from the Non-Dom scheme and other tax advantages available to Cyprus tax residents.
  6. No inheritance tax: Cyprus has abolished inheritance tax, making it attractive for wealth planning and preservation purposes.
  7. Extensive double tax treaty network: Cyprus has double taxation treaties with over 60 countries, which can help minimize tax liabilities on income sourced from other jurisdictions.

There is also an alternative tax residency rule, commonly known as the “60-day rule,” which can apply to non-domiciled individuals.

Under the 60-day rule, an individual can become a tax resident of Cyprus if they meet the following criteria in a tax year:

  1. Stay in Cyprus for at least 60 days (not necessarily consecutive).
  2. Do not reside in any other single country for more than 183 days.
  3. Maintain a permanent residence in Cyprus, either owned or rented.
  4. Carry out any business or employment in Cyprus or hold an office in a Cyprus tax resident company during the tax year.

If an individual qualifies for Cyprus tax residency under the 60-day rule, they can benefit from the Non-Dom scheme and other tax advantages available to Cyprus tax residents, such as exemptions on dividend and interest income.

Corporate Setups – 12.5% Tax

Creating a company in Cyprus is becoming an increasingly popular choice for companies looking to establish a presence in Europe. Cyprus offers a favorable tax system with a low corporate tax rate, as well as a strategic location providing access to markets both in Europe and the Middle East.

The two main types of companies in Cyprus are private limited liability companies and public limited liability companies. Private limited liability companies are the most common and require a minimum of one director and one shareholder, while public limited liability companies require a minimum of two directors and seven shareholders.

Cyprus has a low corporate tax rate of 12.5%, which is one of the lowest in the European Union (it is considered by many to be a low-cost alternative to Ireland, which has a similar corporate tax rate). This means that companies can benefit from a reduced tax burden, which can lead to increased profits and competitiveness.

In addition to the low corporate tax rate, Cyprus also offers a number of other tax benefits. For example, there is no withholding tax on dividends paid to non-resident shareholders, and no tax on profits from the sale of securities. This makes Cyprus an attractive location for companies engaged in international business and investment activities.

Another advantage of creating a company in Cyprus is the extensive network of double taxation agreements in the country. Cyprus has signed double taxation agreements with more than 60 countries, which means that companies can benefit from reduced rates of withholding tax on dividends, interest, and royalties.

Cyprus also offers a range of other tax incentives and exemptions for companies that invest in certain sectors or regions of the country. For example, companies investing in research and development can benefit from a tax incentive of up to 50% of their eligible expenses, while companies investing in renewable energy sources can benefit from a reduced corporate tax rate of 2.5%.

Finally, Cyprus has a simple and transparent tax system based on the principles of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). This means that companies can benefit from a stable and predictable tax environment that will help to reduce risks and uncertainties.

Digital Nomad Program

Cyprus has also hopped onto the digital nomad bandwagon and launched a digital nomad program aimed at attracting remote workers and fostering a vibrant digital community.

Cyprus’s digital nomad program aims to provide remote workers with a temporary residence permit, allowing them to live and work in the country for up to a year. The program is designed to accommodate freelancers, entrepreneurs, and professionals working for companies based outside Cyprus. The digital nomad visa does not grant the right to work for local companies or offer any additional employment rights.

To be eligible for the Cyprus digital nomad program, applicants must meet the following criteria:

  1. Proof of employment or self-employment: Applicants must provide evidence of a work contract with a foreign company or self-employment status as a freelancer or entrepreneur.
  2. Minimum income threshold: Applicants must demonstrate a minimum monthly income of €2,000 (subject to change) from their remote work.
  3. Valid health insurance: Applicants must possess comprehensive health insurance that covers them during their stay in Cyprus.
  4. Clean criminal record: Applicants must provide a certificate of a clean criminal record from their country of origin.
  5. Application fee: Applicants must pay a non-refundable application fee.

The Cyprus digital nomad program thus offers an attractive opportunity for remote workers to embrace a new lifestyle in a beautiful Mediterranean setting. With its modern infrastructure, affordable cost of living, and rich cultural heritage, Cyprus could become a leading destination for digital nomads looking to work and explore the world. If you’re considering joining the growing community of digital nomads, Cyprus might just be the perfect destination for you.

Conclusion

As we’ve seen, Cyprus can be a very attractive place, especially if you fit into some of the typical cases I outlined above. To get the viewpoing of an expat in Cyprus, you can listen to my chat with Johannes Larsson, a friend of mine who moved to Cyprus from Malta.. As always, it’s important to get financial advice from competent people, so if you’re serious about exploring Cyprus as a potential destination for living or opening up a company, contact me and I’ll put you in touch with a good tax lawyer.

Get tax advice on Cyprus setup

Getting Started with Preventive Health and Longevity

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I’ve been getting more into the finer details of preventive medicine and longevity. I will probably post a few more things later about what I’m doing on this front; so far I’m in the learning stage.

I would recommend the following podcasts/sites/channels in particular, if you’re also interested in digging deeper.

The Drive – Peter Attia

The Drive with Peter Attia is a podcast that dives deep into topics related to health and well-being. Dr. Attia, a physician and expert in longevity, interviews leading scientists, doctors, and experts in the field to provide insightful conversations about health, nutrition, and fitness.

Huberman Lab – Andrew Huberman

The Huberman Lab with Andrew Huberman is a podcast that explores the mysteries of the brain and nervous system. Dr. Huberman, a neuroscientist at Stanford University, offers a combination of science and practical advice to help people improve their mental and physical health.

Found My Fitness – Rhonda Patrick

Found My Fitness with Rhonda Patrick is a podcast that provides science-based insights into the latest research on longevity, nutrition, and fitness. Dr. Patrick, a biomedical scientist, offers practical advice on how to optimize your health through diet, exercise, and other lifestyle choices.

The Live Long and Master Aging Podcast – Peter Bowes

The Live Long and Master Aging Podcast with Peter Bowes is a podcast that focuses on the latest research and insights into aging and longevity. Bowes, a journalist and presenter, interviews experts in the field to provide practical advice on how to live a longer, healthier life.

High Intensity Health – Mike Mutzel

The High Intensity Health podcast, hosted by Mike Mutzel, MS, explores cutting-edge health, nutrition, and fitness topics through engaging interviews with experts in the field.

Monefit Review 2025 – 7% Per Year Returns with SmartSaver

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In this article, I’m taking a look at Monefit, a consumer loan platform designed to provide quick and convenient personal loans to customers in need of financial assistance.

Monefit was launched by Creditstar Group, an established financial services provider with over a decade of experience in the market. Operating across several European countries, Creditstar has built a solid reputation for offering short-term and installment loans to customers .

Register now at Monefit SmartSaver through this link and receive a 2% cashback on all your net deposits in the first 60 days.

Registration and Account Setup

Getting started with Monefit is a straightforward process. The registration and account setup are user-friendly, and once registered you can either deposit money and start investing (SmartSaver) or apply for a credit line (CreditLine).

Auto-Invest Feature

Monefit is a black-box platform. This means that you do not have visibility into the loans that you’re investing in, but are trusting the platform to make the best use of your money and allocate it in a responsible way. This is similar to how Bondora’s Go and Grow Unlimited system works. So to invest, you will need to use Monefit’s auto-invest tool called SmartSaver.

Monefit gives you a return of 7% per year, and boasts more than €850m invested and €83m in interest earned by investors on the platform.

Your SmartSaver account has no fees of any kind and no hidden cost, so you know exactly how much you will receive when you decide to withdraw your funds.

However, it is worth mentioning that there is a €50 minimum withdrawal limit in place. Moreover, withdrawals are not instant, however the platform promises to process them within 10 days.

Deposits and withdrawals can only be made in Euros.

One thing to mention is that while the interest is advertised at 7%, possibly hinting that it’s a fixed return, it can actually fluctuate at the platform’s will, as detailed in the terms and conditions. So take that with a pinch of salt.

Monefit and Creditstar

As I mentioned, there are very close ties between Monefit and Creditstar, so it’s worth spending some time on investigating Creditstar itself.

The Credistar Group is a prominent and audited European lending group that offers loans to borrowers across Europe, operating in countries such as Spain, the UK, Sweden, Denmark, Poland, the Czech Republic, Estonia, and Finland.

Although Credistar recorded a profit in its audited financial statement for 2021, the company’s commitment to meeting investor obligations has been somewhat inconsistent.

Credistar also sources funds for its loans through platforms like Mintos and Lendermarket. However, investors using these platforms have encountered considerable delays in payments, as Credistar was unable to repay investors due to insufficient liquidity to finance its loans.

Investments that had reached maturity on Mintos were shifted to “pending payments,” while those on Lendermarket saw their terms extended.

These circumstances heightened investor risk and significantly affected their liquidity.

Despite both P2P lending marketplaces advertising Credistar’s loans with the highest returns, investors have expressed dissatisfaction with the company’s methods and its failure to honor the buyback guarantee it had pledged on both Mintos and Lendermarket.

The underlying cause of Creditstar’s “liquidity challenges” could be attributed to the lender’s assertive lending approach and unforeseen fluctuations in financing.

To maximize profits, the lender must issue a greater number of loans and secure more funding. This rationale could explain why the financial group opted to introduce an additional “financing source” – Monefit SmartSaver.

Alternative Platforms

As an investor, it’s crucial to explore and compare different investment platforms to find the one that best suits your needs and preferences. Here are some alternative platforms I’ve considered or invested in:

  1. Mintos: Mintos is a popular peer-to-peer lending platform that offers a wide range of loan types from various loan originators across the globe. The platform provides a comprehensive auto-invest feature and a secondary market, making it a strong competitor to Monefit. However, Mintos’ extensive range of loan originators and countries may require more due diligence and research from investors.
  2. PeerBerry: PeerBerry is another well-regarded European P2P lending platform that focuses on consumer loans, similar to Monefit. The platform is known for its user-friendly interface, auto-invest feature, and competitive interest rates. However, PeerBerry’s loans also have a geographic concentration in Europe, posing similar risks to Monefit.
  3. Bondora: Bondora is a long-standing P2P lending platform that offers consumer loans in Estonia, Finland, and Spain. The platform is known for its simplicity and ease of use, with an auto-invest feature called “Go & Grow Unlimited” that targets a fixed return rate. Bondora’s main drawback is its limited geographic exposure, which may not suit investors seeking greater diversification.

Conclusion

This platform leaves me with mixed feelings. On the one hand, it’s not a platform that has to start from scratch, given that it’s backed by Creditstar, and the latter company has plenty of experience in the space. However, Creditstar itself does not have a stellar track record in its behavior towards investors.

Therefore, I would say that Monefit could be a good platform for you if you want absolute ease-of-use and high liquidity and you’re a fan of other similar products in the market such as Bondora’s Go & Grow. Monefit does in fact currently offer better returns than Bondora, but I would classify it as being riskier.

It’s always a good idea to explore and compare alternative platforms to find the one that best aligns with your investment goals and risk appetite.

Register at Monefit – 2% Cashback

Egg Fried Rice with the Bosch AutoCook Pro

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Machine used: Bosch Autocook Pro multi-cooker

Today’s recipe is one of the easiest you can prepare and is ideal for those who are using the multicooker for the first time.

This should be enough to serve 4 to 6 people, depending on the portion size and if the rice is served as a side dish or part of a main course. I prepare it and use it myself for 2-3 days as a snack or as an accompaniment to protein and fats in my meals.

Ingredients (4 servings)

  • 2 cups jasmine rice
  • 3.5 cups water
  • 3 large eggs, beaten
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup frozen peas and carrots, thawed (optional, but recommended)
  • 3-4 green onions, thinly sliced
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce (or to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions for Plain Rice

The first thing to do is to cook the jasmine rice in the Bosch AutoCook Pro, follow these steps:

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups jasmine rice
  • 3.5 cups water
  • 1 tablespoon salt (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Rinse the jasmine rice: Place the jasmine rice in a fine-mesh strainer and rinse under cold running water until the water runs clear. This step helps remove excess starch and prevents the rice from being too sticky. My packet said that it’s best to rinse it just once, so I did it twice just to be safe. The water was still pretty murky.
  2. Add the rice and water to the AutoCook Pro: Place the rinsed rice in the cooking pot of the Bosch AutoCook Pro. Add 3.5 cups of water, and salt if desired. Stir gently to distribute the salt evenly.
  3. Select the program: Close the lid of the AutoCook Pro and select the “Rice” program from the menu options and select the short cooking time (2o minutes),
  4. Start the cooking process: Press the “Start” button, and the AutoCook Pro will begin cooking the jasmine rice. The appliance will automatically adjust the temperature for optimal results.
  5. Wait for the rice to cook: The AutoCook Pro will cook the rice and switch to the “Keep Warm” function when it’s done. Allow the rice to rest for at least 5 minutes after the cooking cycle has completed before opening the lid.
  6. Fluff the rice: After letting the rice rest, open the lid and use a fork or rice paddle to gently fluff the rice.

Note: The rice-to-water ratio and cooking time might vary slightly depending on the specific model of your Bosch AutoCook Pro. Adjust the ratio and cooking time as needed to achieve your desired rice texture.

Directions for the Rest of the Ingredients

Now it’s time to cook the rest. While you can use the AutoCook Pro for this part as well, I used a normal pan and kept the rice warm in the cooker in the meantime.

Ingredients:

  • 3 large eggs, beaten
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup frozen peas and carrots, thawed (optional, but recommended)
  • 3-4 green onions, thinly sliced
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce (or to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

  1. Put the pan on medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil and heat it up.
  2. Once hot, add the beaten eggs and cook them, stirring constantly to scramble them. When the eggs are fully cooked, transfer them to a plate and set aside.
  3. Add another tablespoon of vegetable oil to the pot. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, then cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are soft and translucent.
  4. Add the thawed peas and carrots (if using) to the pot and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
  5. Stir in the cooked and cooled jasmine rice, breaking up any clumps, and cook for about 3-5 minutes until the rice is heated through and slightly crispy.
  6. Add the scrambled eggs back to the pot, along with the sliced green onions, soy sauce, and sesame oil (if using). Stir to combine all the ingredients.
  7. Taste the fried rice and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Remember that you can customize your egg fried rice by adding other ingredients such as cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu for added protein, or additional vegetables like bell peppers or bean sprouts for extra flavor and texture.

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Jean Galea

Investor | Dad | Global Citizen | Athlete