Retirement

As I sadly watch my stock portfolio go down the tubes due to reciprocal tariffs and retaliation from China, I find serenity in my paid-off home. No matter how much the stock market tanks, it’s comforting to know I’ll always have shelter to take care of my family. It’s funny, but only active investors, finance […]

Reciprocal tariffs will drive up the cost of most goods, making everyday life more expensive for American households. According to Fitch Ratings, the U.S. tariff rate on all imports has jumped from 2.5% in 2024 to around 22% today. Some research firms estimate the percentage is closer to 30%. As a result, more Americans may

To my dismay, my beloved hot tub stopped working the other day. It had been fully operational since 2016, but when I went to visit it for a late morning soak, I found its GFCI circuit breaker not working. When I tried to flip it back on, the circuit popped down within three seconds. I

Since 2009, I’ve been writing about the importance of working to live—accumulating wealth to achieve financial independence and freedom. But despite years of advocating for this lifestyle, I’ve come to realize that convincing people remains an uphill battle. Instead, I now have new proof that live-to-work is back and stronger than ever! “Live to work”

Despite the wonderful peace of mind that comes with owning a home free and clear, deciding to pay off a low-interest rate mortgage early is not always straightforward. If your mortgage rate is low compared to risk-free investment returns, keeping the mortgage and investing excess cash elsewhere often makes more financial sense. What Is Considered

Unfortunately, the chances of another recession are increasing, largely due to the uncertainty set forth by the new administration. When uncertainty rises, we collectively tend to spend less and save more. As a result, corporate profit growth may slow, stock prices could fall, and layoffs may increase. Losing money in your investments and then your

Let’s say you’ve come into a large sum of money—perhaps $1 million or more from stock grants, a bonus, or the sale of a home. Congratulations! After accounting for taxes, the real challenge is deciding how to invest it. Given the significant amount, the last thing you want to do is lose a portion of

With fears of a recession rising again largely thanks to the Trump administration’s aggressive policy measures—tariffs, spending cuts, aggressive layoffs, and an increasingly combative trade stance—it’s time to awaken the vulture investor within. Both Main Street and Wall Street are at risk of losing a lot of money now. I don’t particularly enjoy the idea

As I watch my stock portfolio tank, I take solace in knowing that my real estate portfolio continues to chug along despite the chaos, fear, and uncertainty. With mass government personnel cuts, new tariffs against Mexico, Canada, and China, a heated Oval Office exchange between President Trump and Ukraine’s President Zelensky, and sharp words from