A major retirement decision is when to start claiming Social Security benefits. There are many ways to visualize the decision process, and here is another interesting one based on taking the "Net Present Value". Essentially, you are taking into … [Read the rest]
I came across this r/FidelityInvestment Reddit post today about how a Fidelity user had their account compromised (and also eventually restored). In the discussion about how the hackers might have gained access to the account, I learned about some … [Read the rest]
(Update 7/13: There are additional new deals on July 16th, which is even higher demand. One has a cost of $755.95 and a profit of $244.05 per order. Basic deal structure is the same. Sign-up for an account below to get the details. Good … [Read the rest]
Here’s my 2026 2nd Quarter income update as a companion post to my 2026 1st Quarter asset allocation & performance update. Even though I don't focus on high-dividend stocks or covered-call strategies, I still track the income from my portfolio as … [Read the rest]
Here is my 2026 2nd Quarter portfolio update that includes 401k/403b/IRAs and taxable brokerage accounts but excludes our house and small side portfolio of self-directed investments. Following the concept of skin in the game, the following is not a … [Read the rest]
Vanguard recently rolled out a new "Security Score" that encourages folks to activate all of the various security features they have available, and included is a new feature called "Outgoing Transfer Lock". This is an important and useful option … [Read the rest]
Here's my monthly survey of the best interest rates on cash as of July 2026, roughly sorted from shortest to longest maturities. Banks and brokerages love taking advantage of idle cash, and you can often earn more interest while keeping the same … [Read the rest]
Rate hike for No-Penalty CD. CIT Bank (not to be confused with Citi Bank) is an online-only bank that has a multi-year history of competitive rates, although they do like to start up new product lines while keeping low rates on their older product … [Read the rest]
Updated offer. The Marriott Bonvoy Boundless credit card is one of the co-branded rewards card for Marriott hotels (which includes The Ritz-Carlton, St. Regis, JW Marriott, W Hotels, Sheraton, Westin, Marriott, Renaissance, Courtyard, Residence Inn, … [Read the rest]
Another concerning chart. US stock performance, as measured by the S&P 500 index, continues to be at or near all-time highs. Consumer sentiment meanwhile, as measured by the University of Michigan's Consumer Sentiment Index, is at all-time lows. … [Read the rest]
What's on my mind these days? Here's one thing. Based on this Bridgewater article, out of any 15-year period to be invested in US stocks dating back to 1970, the one we’ve just lived through was the best (2010 through end of 2024). I … [Read the rest]
Amazon Prime Days 2026 is now over, but it ran from June 23-26, 2026. Look for sales on the brands you like such as Apple, LEGO, Eero WiFi, Away luggage, Darn Tough socks, Osprey backpacks, YETI. Discounted gift cards, $5 pizzas, and $200 bonus on … [Read the rest]
The Best Credit Card Bonus Offers – 2026
Big List of Free Stocks from Brokerage Apps
Best Interest Rates on Cash - 2026
Free Credit Scores x 3 + Free Credit Monitoring
Best No Fee 0% APR Balance Transfer Offers
Little-Known Cellular Data Plans That Can Save Big Money
How To Haggle Your Cable or Direct TV Bill
Big List of Free Consumer Data Reports (Credit, Rent, Work)