Australian Aboriginal art has generally proved to be a solid investment over time. Work by important Aboriginal artists has increased in value markedly over the past 30 years, with individual works fetching prices as high $350,000 at international auction. Prudent investors who have developed good relationships with specialist galleries can derive great pleasure from collecting the art of the world’s oldest living indigenous culture, and can also be assured that the artists in question have been treated fairly and ethically, and that their investment is secure.

One of the first considerations when investing in Aboriginal art is a Certificate of Authenticity. Certificates are normally issued by the community where the artist lives and paints, or by the gallery from which the artwork is purchased. Certificates vary in the details they provide, however most include information including the artist’s name, community and language group, the title, story and size of the work, and the name and code of the relevant community art centre or gallery. A photo of the artist with the work is also often included with the certificate.

Many of the factors involved in determining the value of an Aboriginal art work are similar to those involved in any other art work. A particular piece should in the first instance be attractive to the investor on the basis of its immediate aesthetic value, but its current and future financial value depend on a variety of factors requiring careful research. These factors include the renown of the artist and the period of the artist’s career in which the work was created. Other factors particular to the Australian Aboriginal art market include the artist’s age and seniority as a tribal elder, and their role or position in the historical development of Aboriginal art.

Prior to purchasing a painting, investors should research the artist in as much depth as possible. Determine whether the artist is represented in significant collections or galleries in Australia and internationally. Also determine how prolific the artist is, and whether there is strong demand for the artist in the secondary market – in other words, at auction. View as much work by the artist as possible to determine whether the work under consideration is from a well regarded period or series. Works painted during particular periods can be significantly more valuable than those from other periods. Finally, make sure you have an accurate understanding of the current market value of the artist’s work.

If all these factors seem daunting, don’t hesitate to ask for professional advice. The Australian Aboriginal art market is far more open than it once was, with increased competition facilitating a marked improvement in service. Reputable gallery owners, dealers and auction houses possess the necessary expertise and are generally happy to assist new investors. One final point to consider when investing in any art are add-on expenses including transaction costs, commissions, insurance and restoration charges. These costs can be high, so be sure to factor them into the purchase price where applicable.

Learning how to accept credit card in your business processing is simple. First you will need to apply for a merchant services account. You can do this by browsing the Internet to find a bank, credit union, or other reputable lender show is willing to help you set up a credit card processing account. Then you will need to decide which equipment plan to go with. You can start small and work your way through increasingly complex layers of sophisticated technology as additional sales bring in extra profit for reinvestment. However, there are a few guidelines to keep in mind as you implement credit card processing strategies for your business.

To accept credit card in your business customers, you should first find a merchant services account provider, often a bank or other financial institution that can help you by underwriting the associated expenses for this type of project. Many lenders will let you apply over the Internet for a merchant services account, and you may receive a response within a day or two. Decide what type of processing will work best with your business. For on-site companies or home-based businesses, you could set up a credit card processor for basic credit payments when a person comes by to purchase your products or services. But if you travel to your customers to deliver goods, you may want to invest in a wireless credit processor that can go with you. Typically these items cost several hundred dollars, or you can lease them for a set monthly fee. Depending on your personal business needs, you may want to get a pager, an e-check and debit processor, or Website credit processing as your business expands into the e-commerce arena.

The next most important way to accept credit card in your business transactions is to set up a Website as an Internet marketing tool. Your merchant account will help you to do this at a pace that will match your company budget. The Website can provide information about your goods and services, price lists, FAQs, industry tips, and a host of other information that will attract customers from around the world. Providing credit card processing service at your site can increase your sales volume and impress customers who are looking for convenient shopping methods without the hassle of waiting for a store to open or a sales associate to offer assistance.

Move your business to the next level of sophistication by applying for a merchant services account so you can accept credit card in your business payments.