The arrival of the bonus brings financial opportunities: Make the most of this additional income!

The arrival of the bonus brings with it an opportunity for workers to strengthen their financial stability and cover complementary needs. But how can we ensure that this additional income is used efficiently? Germán Manrique, Microfinance Manager at Equifax, shares his advice on investments, debt reduction, and how to avoid the most common mistakes when managing this money. Currently, the bonus corresponds to a salary, as well as an extraordinary 9% bonus for EsSalud payment. Of the approximately 6.1 million people in the dependent formal market who receive this income, only 2% manage to have a salary exceeding S/ 15,000. The average general bonus for workers ranges from S/ 1,850 to S/ 3,500, varying by sector, profession, and occupational level. In that sense, using the bonus to pay off debts is one of the best decisions to maintain financial balance. It is important not to allocate more than 30% of the monthly income to debt repayment and carefully evaluate payment conditions, including interest rates and the flexibility of financial institutions. For those entering the world of investments, Manrique recommends starting with low-risk options such as fixed-term savings accounts or mutual funds, ideal for those seeking security. Another good option for business owners is to invest in working capital assets. For those willing to take more risks, options such as microfactoring, buying stocks in the secondary market, and leasing may be suitable, depending on each person's risk appetite. The financial, service, and technology sectors are the most promising for investing the bonus and making it profitable, reducing portfolio risk. In addition, safe haven currencies such as the dollar, gold purchases, and commodities are alternatives that offer stability in times of economic volatility. It is important to ensure that the sector where the bonus is allocated or invested has healthy growth, something that can be verified through reports that provide a better analysis of the environment and the situation of entities, companies, government, and industries. It is vital to plan and prioritize expenses to avoid impulsive use of money. Developing a list of priorities and establishing a clear budget can help avoid rushed financial decisions. Avoiding acquiring debts at a young age without a solid financial education is key. It is advisable to seek financial advice before committing to any type of debt and to use credit responsibly, only for essential needs and with assured repayment capacity. A study by Equifax reveals that out of every 10 people who enter the system, only 8 manage to maintain a good credit history, and 2 do not reintegrate within a 5-year period. In conclusion, the bonus is an opportunity to improve personal financial situation, as long as it is managed intelligently. The key is to diversify investments, reduce debts, plan expenses, and seek advice when necessary. With a prudent and strategic approach, this extra money can be a boost to achieving long-term financial goals.