Features

What Is the Federal Funds Rate?

The federal funds rate can impact a host of borrowing costs, and thus the entire U.S. economy.

By Jeff Reeves

Should You Buy These ETFs Before the Fed Cuts Rates?

The Fed is expected to cut the federal funds rate at the December Fed meeting, and investors should consider these ETFs as interest rates head lower.

By Kyle Woodley

Best Stocks to Buy for a Fed Rate Cut

The Federal Reserve is widely expected to continue rate cuts at the December Fed meeting, and lower borrowing costs could boost these large-cap stocks.

By Jeff Reeves

The Vinyl Rule of Retirement: Plan for Two Sides in Your Next Act

Because "Life is what happens when you’re busy making other plans.”

By Jacob Schroeder

Why Playing It Safe in Retirement Is a Big Risk

Fear of losing money could actually cost you in retirement. Find out why being too conservative with your life savings can hurt you and how to stop that from happening.

By Donna Fuscaldo

QUIZ: What Type Of Retirement Saver Are You?

Quiz What is your retirement savings style? Find out with this quick quiz.

By Donna Fuscaldo

Meet the World's Unluckiest — and Entitled — Porch Pirate

This teen swiped a booby-trapped package that showered him with glitter, and then he hurt his wrist while fleeing. This is why no lawyer will represent him.

By H. Dennis Beaver, Esq.

Smart Business: How Community Engagement Can Help Fuel Growth

As a financial professional, you can strengthen your brand while making a difference in your community. See how these pros turned community spirit into growth.

By Cody Foster

In 2026, the Human Touch Will Be the Differentiator for Advisers

Advisers who leverage innovative technology to streamline tasks and combat a talent shortage can then prioritize the irreplaceable human touch and empathy.

By Janel Jackson

How Advisers Can Deliver a True Family Office Experience

The family office model is no longer just for the ultra-wealthy. Advisory firms will need to ensure they have the talent and the tech to serve their clients.

By Raj Doshi

If You'd Put $1,000 Into Netflix Stock 20 Years Ago, Here's What You'd Have Today

Netflix Netflix stock stumbled since hitting record levels, but this volatile name has still been a terrific buy-and-hold bet.

By Dan Burrows

The Average Monthly Social Security Check: September 2025

The average monthly Social Security check amount might surprise you. Here's a look at the numbers and why they matter.

By Donna LeValley

Fake vs. Real Christmas Tree: Which Will Save You More?

We pit fake Christmas trees vs. real ones to see which is the better value in the long run.

By Quincy Williamson

Missed Medicare Open Enrollment? Here Are Your Options

There are limited ways you can change your Original Medicare elections after annual open enrollment has closed.

By Donna LeValley

IRS Income Tax Refund Schedule: When Will Your Refund Arrive?

Tax Refunds Your IRS tax refund may arrive sooner than you think. Here’s a schedule for when you can expect your check or direct deposit.

By Kate Schubel

Capital Gains Tax Quiz: How Well Do You Really Know IRS Investment Tax Rules?

Quiz Take our capital gains tax quiz to test your investment taxes knowledge. Learn about loss rules, holding periods, and tax incentives that could impact your savings.

By Kelley R. Taylor

Why Your Bonus Check Is So Small: Understanding the Bonus Tax Rate

Income Tax Tax withholding rules mean a portion of your bonus won’t make it into your bank account.

By Kelley R. Taylor

Are You Middle-Class? Here's the Most Tax-Friendly State for Your Family

Tax Tips We found the state with no income tax, low property tax bills, and exemptions on groceries and medicine.

By Kate Schubel

This Is Why Investors Shouldn't Romanticize Bitcoin

Investors should treat bitcoin as the high-risk asset it is. A look at the data indicates a small portfolio allocation for most investors would be the safest.

By Jonathan Dane, CFA, CFP®️

I'm a Federal Benefits Pro: I Answer These 2 Questions a Lot

Many federal employees ask about rolling a TSP into an IRA and parsing options for survivor benefits, both especially critical topics.

By Michael Martin, Investment Adviser Representative, ChFEBC℠

An Income Strategy for a Volatile Market: Guide for Advisers

Advisers are increasingly turning to private credit such as asset-based and real estate lending for elevated yields and protection backed by tangible assets.

By Matthew Pallai

Smart Money Moves Savers Should Make in 2026

Sponsored by Physicians Mutual

These steps will get you on the road to achieving your 2026 savings goals.

By Sean Jackson

I retired at 63 to enjoy my free time, but my grown kids constantly ask for help with child care. I love my grandkids, but it's too much. What should I do?

We asked therapists and relationship experts for advice.

By Maurie Backman

5 RMD Mistakes That Even Seasoned Retirees Can Make

The five biggest RMD mistakes retirees make show that tax-smart retirement planning should start well before you hit the age your first RMD is due.

By Jeremy Keil, CFP®, CFA®, CKA®

Guiding Principles of Retirement Planning With $10K or $10M

Regardless of your net worth, you deserve a detailed retirement plan backed by a solid understanding of your finances.

By Steve Myers

Retirement Triple Play: 3 Tax Breaks to Lower Your 2026 Bill

Good news for older taxpayers: Standard deductions are higher, there's a temporary "bonus deduction" for older folks, and income thresholds have been raised.

By Michael Greenlund

10 New Year's Resolutions for Retiring in 2026

Sponsored by Physicians Mutual

These New Year's resolutions will help you retire in 2026 with confidence in your financial strategy.

By Adam Shell