🦔 Timeless Wisdom of Financial Phrases
🦔 Timeless Wisdom of Financial Phrases
Phrases have stood the test of time, carrying with them centuries of wisdom and practical advice.
Hedge Your Bets Originating in the 17th century, initially referred to planting hedges around a property to reduce the risk of loss. In today’s financial world, it means to diversify investments to minimise losses.
Ballpark Figure emerged in the 1950s from the U.S. military and NASA. In finance, a “ballpark figure” is often used during initial project planning or budgeting to provide a rough idea of costs.
A Bird in the Hand is Worth Two in the Bush Dating is a medieval falconry phrase that emphasises the value of holding onto something certain rather than risking it for something greater. It advises caution and the importance of securing guaranteed returns.
Under the Table from the 16th century refers to secretive dealings conducted away from the eyes of authorities. In finance these transactions are those that are illicit or unreported, such as paying employees off the books to avoid taxes. Financial institutions strive to avoid such practices to maintain transparency and compliance.
Riding the Gravy Train Emerging in early 20th-century America, this idiom combines “gravy” (slang for easy profits) with the image of a train, symbolising a smooth journey to wealth. A successful entrepreneur who continues to profit from a well-established business might be said to be “riding the gravy train.”
Born with a Silver Spoon in Your Mouth from medieval times, wealthy families gave silver spoons as gifts to godchildren at their christenings. Now it refers to an individual who inherits a substantial fortune or a business.
Breaking the Bank comes from gambling, where a player wins more money than the casino has on hand. It can describe a situation where an investment or expense exceeds available funds. A company might “break the bank” by investing heavily in a new venture that doesn’t yield expected returns.
Rainmake used in Native American culture to describe someone who could bring rain, now refers to a person who generates substantial business or revenue. They might be a top-performing salesperson or executive who consistently brings in high-value clients and deals.
Credit Crunch became popular during financial crises when banks reduce lending due to economic uncertainty. It can severely impact businesses and consumers, leading to reduced spending and investment. In the 2008 financial crisis many businesses struggled to secure loans.
High Roller from the gambling world refers to someone who bets large amounts of money. An investor or trader who makes significant investments or takes substantial risks.
These timeless phrases not only add colour to our financial conversations but also remind us of the enduring principles that guide sound financial decision-making.
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Reference: 2024-0100-081