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Author: Jing Pan

  • ‘May God have mercy’: Robert Kiyosaki warns of hyperinflation in America — says ‘millions, young and old’ will be ‘wiped out financially’. But he sees massive upside in these 3 assets

    ‘May God have mercy’: Robert Kiyosaki warns of hyperinflation in America — says ‘millions, young and old’ will be ‘wiped out financially’. But he sees massive upside in these 3 assets

    We adhere to strict standards of editorial integrity to help you make decisions with confidence. Some or all links contained within this article are paid links.

    Since peaking at a 40-year high of 9.1% in June 2022, headline inflation in the U.S. has eased. But according to “Rich Dad Poor Dad” author Robert Kiyosaki, the worst may be yet to come.

    “The end is here: what if you threw a party and no one showed up? That is what happened yesterday,” he wrote in a May 21 post on X. “The Fed held an auction for U.S. bonds and no one showed up. So the Fed quietly bought $50 billion of its own fake money with fake money.”

    He added, “The party is over. Hyperinflation is here. Millions, young and old to be wiped out financially.”

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    Kiyosaki is no stranger to predictions of economic collapse, and the claims in his recent post couldn’t be independently verified. He didn’t cite a source for the $50 billion “fake money” purchase or the fact that “no one showed up.”

    However, the same day he made his post, the U.S. Treasury did see weak demand for a $16 billion sale of 20-year bonds, as investors grew uneasy over the country’s mounting debt.

    The auction followed Moody’s downgrade of the U.S. sovereign credit rating last Friday — a move Kiyosaki warns could have dire consequences:

    “A Moody’s downgrade will probably mean higher interest rates which means a U.S. recession, which means the economy will slow, unemployment will climb, bond market, housing market, and weak banks may fail … which may mean 1929 Depression.”

    But amid the gloom, he also sees a silver lining — literally.

    “Good news. Gold will go to $25,000. Silver to $70. Bitcoin to $500k to $1 million,” he wrote, before ending with a stark note: “May God have mercy on our souls.”

    Let’s take a closer look at the assets he’s championing.

    Precious metals

    Kiyosaki’s endorsement of gold and silver is nothing new — he’s been advocating for precious metals for decades.

    In October 2023, he wrote on X: “Gold will soon break through $2,100 and then take off. You will wish you had bought gold below $2,000. Next stop, gold $3,700.”

    Gold prices surged in 2024 and have continued to climb through 2025, surpassing $3,000 per ounce in April 2025.

    Gold has long been viewed as a potential safe-haven investment. It’s not tied to any one country, currency or economy. It can’t be printed out of thin air like fiat money, and investors tend to pile in during times of economic turmoil or geopolitical uncertainty — driving up its value.

    Ray Dalio, the founder of Bridgewater Associates — the world’s largest hedge fund — told CNBC in February: “People don’t have, typically, an adequate amount of gold in their portfolio,” adding that, “when bad times come, gold is a very effective diversifier.”

    One way to invest in gold that also provides significant tax advantages is to open a gold IRA with the help of American Hartford Gold.

    Gold IRAs allow investors to hold physical gold or gold-related assets within a retirement account — combining the tax advantages of an IRA with the protective benefits of investing in gold, making it an option for those looking to potentially hedge their retirement funds against economic uncertainties.

    Even better, you can often roll over existing 401(k) or IRA accounts into a gold IRA without tax-related penalties. To learn more, get your free 2025 information guide on investing in precious metals.

    Qualifying purchases can also receive up to $20,000 in free silver.

    Read more: Want an extra $1,300,000 when you retire? Dave Ramsey says this 7-step plan ‘works every single time’ to kill debt, get rich in America — and that ‘anyone’ can do it

    Real estate — revisited

    In light of his dire outlook, Kiyosaki suggested a few steps individuals could take to protect themselves — and highlighted the power of one income-generating asset.

    “I have always recommended people become entrepreneurs, at least a side hustle, and not need job security. Then invest in income-producing real estate, in a crash, which provides steady cash flow,” he wrote on X.

    Real estate has long been a favored asset for income-focused investors. While stock markets can swing wildly on headlines, high-quality properties often continue to generate stable rental income.

    It can also be a powerful hedge against inflation. When inflation rises property values often increase as well, reflecting the higher costs of materials, labor and land. At the same time, rental income tends to go up, providing landlords with a revenue stream that adjusts with inflation.

    Perhaps that’s why Kiyosaki once disclosed he owns 15,000 houses — strictly for investment purposes.

    Today, you don’t need to be as wealthy as Kiyosaki to get started in real estate investing. Crowdfunding platforms like Homeshares offer an easier way to get exposure to this income-generating asset class.

    Another option is Homeshares, which gives accredited investors access to the $36 trillion U.S. home equity market — a space that’s historically been the exclusive playground of institutional investors.

    With a minimum investment of $25,000, investors can gain direct exposure to hundreds of owner-occupied homes in top U.S. cities through their U.S. Home Equity Fund — without the headaches of buying, owning or managing property.

    With risk-adjusted target returns ranging from 14% to 17%, this approach provides an effective, hands-off way to invest in owner-occupied residential properties across regional markets.

    Bitcoin

    Bitcoin has been one of the top-performing assets of the past decade — and Kiyosaki is betting it still has room to run.

    On Nov. 29, 2024, he predicted, “Bitcoin will soon break $100,000.” On Dec. 4 the cryptocurrency surpassed that milestone, grabbing headlines worldwide.

    But in Kiyosaki’s view, that’s just the beginning. He sees Bitcoin climbing much higher — potentially reaching $500,000 to $1 million.

    He’s not alone in that view. Twitter co-founder Jack Dorsey said in May 2024 that Bitcoin could hit “at least” $1 million by 2030 — and possibly go even higher.

    For those looking to hop on the bitcoin bandwagon, new crypto platforms have made it easier for everyday investors.

    For instance, Gemini is a full-reserve and regulated cryptocurrency exchange and custodian, which allows users to buy, sell and store bitcoin and 70 other cryptocurrencies.

    You can place instant, recurring and limit buys on their growing and vetted list of available cryptos.

    But if you’re not ready to buy just yet, you can still invest in crypto with their Gemini credit card.

    What to read next

    Like what you read? Join 200,000+ readers and get the best of Moneywise straight to your inbox every week. Subscribe for free.

    This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

  • Kevin O’Leary gives this 1 golden piece of money advice to his kids ‘over and over again’ — says it will make you a millionaire even on $68K income. Are you leaving riches on the table?

    Kevin O’Leary gives this 1 golden piece of money advice to his kids ‘over and over again’ — says it will make you a millionaire even on $68K income. Are you leaving riches on the table?

    We adhere to strict standards of editorial integrity to help you make decisions with confidence. Some or all links contained within this article are paid links.

    Kevin O’Leary has made numerous investment bets on Shark Tank, backing everything from kitchen gadgets to cat DNA testing. But when it comes to teaching his own kids about money, his advice is surprisingly simple.

    “What piece of advice do I give my kids over and over and over again about money? Don’t spend it, save it, invest it, let it compound — that’s the gift the market gives you,” O’Leary said in a recent YouTube video.

    “Take 15% of all your paychecks, all your side hustle, any cash granny gives you, and put it in the market and just let it compound.”

    Saving 15% might not sound like a fast track to riches, but O’Leary says the payoff can be enormous — even on a modest income.

    “If you make $68,000 a year, the average salary, and you do this your entire life — just 15% of your paycheck — you’ll end up a millionaire at retirement at 65.”

    It’s a compelling idea. But how realistic is it?

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    The outcome depends on key factors like when you start and what kind of return the market delivers. For example, CNBC estimates that if you begin saving 15% of your income at age 25 and earn a 4% annual return, you’d only need to make $67,459 a year to hit the $1 million mark by 65.

    Start at 40, however, and you’ll need to earn more than double — $155,086 per year — to reach the same goal with a 4% return. But if you manage to get an 8% return, the required income drops to $83,563.

    Historically, the U.S. stock market has delivered strong long-term returns. The benchmark S&P 500’s average annual return has hovered around 10%, though of course, past performance is no guarantee of future results.

    Still, O’Leary’s core message is timeless: the earlier and more consistently you invest, the better your chances of growth.

    “Best piece of advice I can give anybody,” he said. “Don’t buy stuff you don’t need — invest it instead.”

    Here’s a look at a few simple ways to apply that advice in your own life.

    Unlock the market’s gift — and ‘let it compound’

    O’Leary’s advice to “put it in the market and just let it compound” echoes the philosophy of investing legend Warren Buffett.

    “In my view, for most people, the best thing to do is own the S&P 500 index fund,” Buffett has famously stated.

    This approach gives investors exposure to 500 of America’s largest companies across a wide range of industries, providing instant diversification without the need for constant monitoring or active management.

    Still, setting aside 15% of every paycheck may feel out of reach for many. According to the Bureau of Economic Analysis, the current personal savings rate in the U.S. is just 4.9%.

    The good news? You don’t have to start big. The beauty of this strategy is its accessibility — anyone, regardless of wealth, can take advantage of it. Even small amounts can grow over time with tools like Acorns, a popular app that automatically invests your spare change.

    Signing up for Acorns takes just minutes: link your cards, and Acorns will round up each purchase to the nearest dollar, investing the difference — your spare change — into a diversified portfolio. With Acorns, you can invest in an S&P 500 ETF with as little as $5 — and, if you sign up today, Acorns will add a $20 bonus to help you begin your investment journey.

    Read more: Want an extra $1,300,000 when you retire? Dave Ramsey says this 7-step plan ‘works every single time’ to kill debt, get rich in America — and that ‘anyone’ can do it

    Building wealth while earning passive income

    Beyond stocks, real estate has long been a favorite asset class for building wealth — especially among income-focused investors.

    While stock markets can swing wildly on headlines, high-quality properties often continue to generate stable rental income.

    In fact, Buffett often uses real estate to illustrate what a productive, income-generating asset looks like. In 2022, he stated that if you offered him “1% of all the apartment houses in the country” for $25 billion, he would “write you a check.”

    Why? Because regardless of what’s happening in the broader economy, people still need a place to live and apartments can consistently produce rent money.

    The best part? You don’t need to be a billionaire investor to get in the game.

    One option is Homeshares, which gives access to the $30-plus trillion U.S. home equity market — a space that has historically been the exclusive playground of institutional investors. With a minimum investment of $25,000, accredited investors can gain direct exposure to hundreds of owner-occupied homes in top U.S. cities through their U.S. Home Equity Fund — without the headaches of buying, owning or managing property.

    With risk-adjusted target returns ranging from 14% to 17%, this approach provides an effective, hands-off way to invest in owner-occupied residential properties across regional markets.

    Another option is First National Realty Partners (FNRP), which allows accredited investors to diversify their portfolio through grocery-anchored commercial properties without taking on the responsibilities of being a landlord.

    With a minimum investment of $50,000, investors can own a share of properties leased by national brands like Whole Foods, Kroger and Walmart, which provide essential goods to their communities. Thanks to Triple Net (NNN) leases, accredited investors are able to invest in these properties without worrying about tenant costs cutting into their potential returns.

    Simply answer a few questions — including how much you would like to invest — to start browsing their full list of available properties.

    Talk to an expert

    At the end of the day, everyone’s financial situation is different — from income levels and investment goals to debt obligations and risk tolerance. Some may be juggling student loans or credit card debt, which can make it difficult to jump straight into investing. Others might feel uneasy about market volatility.

    If you’re unsure where to start, it might be the right time to get in touch with a financial advisor through Advisor.com.

    Advisor.com is an online platform that matches you with vetted financial advisors suited to your unique needs. They can help tailor a strategy to your unique financial situation, whether you’re looking to grow wealth, diversify beyond stocks or plan for long-term financial security.

    Once you’re matched with an advisor, you can book a free consultation with no obligation to hire.

    What to read next

    Like what you read? Join 200,000+ readers and get the best of Moneywise straight to your inbox every week. Subscribe for free.

    This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

  • Ultra-rich Americans are pouring cash into this 1 ‘safer, less volatile’ asset class instead of stocks — and believe there’s ‘no bad time’ to buy it. Do you own any?

    We adhere to strict standards of editorial integrity to help you make decisions with confidence. Some or all links contained within this article are paid links.

    With the stock market on a rollercoaster ride, recession warnings piling up and interest rates still elevated, you might expect Americans to hold off on big-ticket purchases. But for the ultra-wealthy, there’s one thing they’re still snapping up, even amid the chaos: luxury real estate.

    According to a new Wall Street Journal report, the number of U.S. homes sold for $10 million or more has surged in major markets since February.

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    In Palm Beach, Florida, the number of $10 million-plus home sales jumped 50% between February 1 and May 1 compared to a year earlier. In Aspen, Colorado — a luxury ski destination — sales climbed by 43.75%. Los Angeles County followed with a 29% increase, while Manhattan saw a 21% uptick.

    For some, it’s a way to sidestep market volatility and preserve purchasing power.

    “The chance of taking a hit in the stock market is a bit too high for the reward, especially when we consider inflation,” said applied mathematician-turned-entrepreneur Dan Herbatschek. “Real estate is safer, less volatile.”

    When inflation rises, property values often follow, driven by the increased costs of materials, labor and land. Rental income tends to rise as well, offering landlords a revenue stream that adjusts with inflation.

    Herbatschek recently signed a contract to purchase a $12.25 million five-bedroom condo in New York City’s Upper East Side for his family, and he’s also acquiring three investment properties priced between $2 million and $5.5 million.

    Meanwhile, billionaire manufacturing executive David MacNeil has been expanding his footprint in Manalapan, Florida. In March, he signed a contract to buy a $55.5 million property next to a site he already owns — bringing his total real estate spending in Manalapan to a staggering $94 million over the past year.

    And he’s unapologetic about the price tag.

    “There’s really no bad time to buy great properties,” MacNeil remarked. “No one ever regretted buying the very best, whether it is a premium collector car or a piece of premium real estate. Scared money chases bargains, and smart money chases excellence.”

    How to invest in real estate — even without millions

    To be sure, real estate isn’t just for the ultra-wealthy. Regular Americans can benefit from it, too — just ask homeowners.

    Over the past five years, the S&P CoreLogic Case-Shiller U.S. National Home Price NSA Index has jumped by more than 50%, reflecting strong demand and limited housing supply.

    Of course, purchasing a property requires significant capital — and finding the right tenant takes time and effort. But thanks to new investment platforms like Homeshares, you don’t need to own a property outright to gain exposure to real estate.

    Homeshares gives accredited investors access to the $36 trillion U.S. home equity market — a space that’s historically been the exclusive playground of institutional investors.

    With a minimum investment of $25,000, investors can gain direct exposure to hundreds of owner-occupied homes in top U.S. cities through their U.S. Home Equity Fund — without the headaches of buying, owning or managing property.

    With risk-adjusted target returns ranging from 14% to 17%, this approach provides an effective, hands-off way to invest in owner-occupied residential properties across regional markets.

    Read more: Want an extra $1,300,000 when you retire? Dave Ramsey says this 7-step plan ‘works every single time’ to kill debt, get rich in America — and that ‘anyone’ can do it

    Warren Buffett’s advice

    While real estate clearly appeals to the ultra-wealthy, that doesn’t mean stocks are off the table.

    Take car dealership owner Todd Green, who recently bought a $17.8 million slopeside vacation home in Vail, Colorado. Despite the market’s ups and downs, he’s still heavily invested in stocks — and unfazed by short-term volatility.

    “It’s like Warren Buffett always said: If you’re thinking about the stock market over a period of a day or a week, you shouldn’t be in it,” he remarked. “I don’t plan on ever selling my stocks, so this is a little blip on the radar.”

    Buffett has long championed the power of long-term investing — especially through one strategy that doesn’t require stock-picking skills or market timing.

    “In my view, for most people, the best thing to do is own the S&P 500 index fund,” Buffett famously stated.

    This approach gives investors exposure to 500 of America’s largest companies across a wide range of industries, providing instant diversification without the need for constant monitoring or active management.

    Buffett’s belief in this strategy runs so deep, he’s built it into his own estate plan — directing that 90% of his wife’s inheritance will be invested in “a very low-cost S&P 500 index fund” after his passing.

    The beauty of this approach is its accessibility — anyone, regardless of wealth, can take advantage of it. Even small amounts can grow over time with tools like Acorns, a popular app that automatically invests your spare change.

    Signing up for Acorns takes just minutes: link your cards, and Acorns will round up each purchase to the nearest dollar, investing the difference — your spare change — into a diversified portfolio. With Acorns, you can invest in an S&P 500 ETF with as little as $5 — and, if you sign up today, Acorns will add a $20 bonus to help you begin your investment journey.

    What to read next

    Like what you read? Join 200,000+ readers and get the best of Moneywise straight to your inbox every week. Subscribe for free.

    This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

  • This San Francisco man purchased 1 small Costco product in April of 2024 — then resold it for a $600 profit only 11 months later. Here’s what he bought and how to mimic his savvy move

    This San Francisco man purchased 1 small Costco product in April of 2024 — then resold it for a $600 profit only 11 months later. Here’s what he bought and how to mimic his savvy move

    We adhere to strict standards of editorial integrity to help you make decisions with confidence. Some or all links contained within this article are paid links.

    Everyone knows Costco is a great place to stock up — whether you’re in the mood for a giant cheesecake or a kayak you didn’t plan to buy. But did you know the warehouse giant could also be a surprising stop for investors?

    Just ask personal finance influencer Humphrey Yang.

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    In April 2024, Yang purchased a one-ounce gold bar from Costco for $2,359.99. This past March, he walked into a gold dealership in San Francisco and filmed the moment he sold it for cash.

    “Right now, we’re paying $2,955.42 [per ounce],” an employee told him.

    With the spot price for an ounce of gold hovering around $3,020 at the time, Yang agreed to the deal — noting the price was reasonable given dealers typically buy slightly below market value.

    Moments later, Yang walked out with a stack of bills and a simple takeaway.

    “That was surprisingly easy,” he said. “$2,955 — that means I made a profit of $596 over the past 11 months or so.” The exact amount was $595.43.

    Gold prices have been surging recently. Since Yang sold his gold bar, the price has increased to approximately $3,300 per ounce. Goldman Sachs has raised its year-end forecast for gold from $3,300 to $3,700 — with a projected range of $3,650 to $3,950 — according to multiple news outlets.

    Why gold still shines in 2025

    Gold has long served as a store of value — and that hasn’t changed. Unlike fiat currencies, the glittering metal can’t be printed at will by central banks, making it a powerful hedge against inflation and monetary instability.

    It’s also long been viewed as the ultimate safe haven. Gold isn’t tied to any one country, currency or economy, and in times of economic turmoil or geopolitical uncertainty, investors tend to pile in — driving up its value.

    That may help explain why, while markets are getting whipsawed by tariff uncertainty and global tensions, gold has emerged as a bright spot. Over the past 12 months, the price of the precious metal has surged by more than 40%.

    Ray Dalio, founder of the world’s largest hedge fund, Bridgewater Associates, recently highlighted gold’s role in a resilient portfolio.

    “People don’t have, typically, an adequate amount of gold in their portfolio,” Dalio told CNBC in February. “When bad times come, gold is a very effective diversifier.”

    One way to invest in gold that also provides significant tax advantages is to open a gold IRA with the help of American Hartford Gold.

    Gold IRAs allow investors to hold physical gold or gold-related assets within a retirement account — combining the tax advantages of an IRA with the protective benefits of investing in gold, making it an option for those looking to potentially hedge their retirement funds against economic uncertainties.

    Even better, you can often roll over existing 401(k) or IRA accounts into a gold IRA without tax-related penalties. To learn more, get your free 2025 information guide on investing in precious metals.

    Qualifying purchases can also receive up to $20,000 in free silver.

    Read more: Want an extra $1,300,000 when you retire? Dave Ramsey says this 7-step plan ‘works every single time’ to kill debt, get rich in America — and that ‘anyone’ can do it

    A time-tested income play: real estate

    Gold isn’t the only asset investors turn to during inflationary times. Real estate has also proven to be a powerful hedge.

    When inflation rises, property values often increase as well, reflecting the higher costs of materials, labor and land. At the same time, rental income tends to go up, providing landlords with a revenue stream that adjusts for inflation.

    Over the past five years, the S&P CoreLogic Case-Shiller U.S. National Home Price NSA Index has jumped by more than 50%, reflecting strong demand and limited housing supply.

    Of course, high home prices can make buying a home more challenging, especially with mortgage rates still elevated. And being a landlord isn’t exactly hands-off work — managing tenants, maintenance and repairs can quickly eat into your time (and returns).

    The good news? You don’t need to buy a property outright — or deal with leaky faucets — to invest in real estate today.

    One option is Homeshares, which gives access to the $30-plus trillion U.S. home equity market — a space that has historically been the exclusive playground of institutional investors. With a minimum investment of $25,000, accredited investors can gain direct exposure to hundreds of owner-occupied homes in top U.S. cities through their U.S. Home Equity Fund — without the headaches of buying, owning or managing property.

    With risk-adjusted target returns ranging from 14% to 17%, this approach provides an effective, hands-off way to invest in owner-occupied residential properties across regional markets.

    What to read next

    Like what you read? Join 200,000+ readers and get the best of Moneywise straight to your inbox every week. Subscribe for free.

    This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

  • US experts warn ‘rogue’ devices found in Chinese solar power inverters could trigger widespread blackouts, report says — effectively a ‘built-in way’ to destroy the grid. Are you prepared?

    US experts warn ‘rogue’ devices found in Chinese solar power inverters could trigger widespread blackouts, report says — effectively a ‘built-in way’ to destroy the grid. Are you prepared?

    We adhere to strict standards of editorial integrity to help you make decisions with confidence. Some or all links contained within this article are paid links.

    U.S. security experts have reportedly uncovered undocumented communication devices inside Chinese-made solar power inverters — hardware that’s widely used to support renewable energy infrastructure.

    According to a Reuters report, citing sources familiar with the matter, “rogue communication devices” that are not listed in product documents have been found in some inverters and batteries supplied by multiple Chinese manufacturers.

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    Power inverters are used to connect solar panels to electricity grids. Though inverters are designed to allow remote access for maintenance purposes, utility companies typically install firewalls to block unapproved access. But experts warned Reuters that using the rogue components to circumvent those protections and remotely shut down inverters or change their settings could potentially destabilize power grids, damage energy infrastructure and trigger widespread blackouts.

    “That effectively means there is a built-in way to physically destroy the grid,” one source told Reuters.

    A spokesperson for China’s embassy in Washington told the news service: “We oppose the generalisation of the concept of national security, distorting and smearing China’s infrastructure achievements.”

    Reuters says the U.S. Department of Energy acknowledged there were challenges with manufacturers disclosing and documenting functionalities of emerging technologies. A spokesperson also noted, “while this functionality may not have malicious intent, it is critical for those procuring to have a full understanding of the capabilities of the products received.”

    The news service says both sources declined to name the manufacturers of the inverters and batteries with the extra components, and would not say how many they had found.

    The idea that a foreign-made component — quietly embedded in clean energy infrastructure — could one day be used to disrupt the U.S. power grid may sound like science fiction. But it can be a real threat to security experts.

    Individuals may be left wondering what they can do to prepare. Here are a few practical steps.

    Find a backup power source

    The best way to minimize the impact of a power outage is to have a backup power source, such as a generator.

    You probably won’t be able to power the entire house on a backup generator, but it should allow you to run some essential appliances — such as a fridge — when the grid is down.

    Of course, generators are big-ticket items and not every household is willing to invest in one. If you just want to charge electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets and laptops, you can get a power bank. Power banks store energy and come in different capacities. The bigger the capacity, the more charges it can provide.

    Build a blackout-ready supply stash

    The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has previously recommended gathering enough essentials to sustain your household for at least 72 hours. That includes food, water, flashlights, batteries and any necessary medications.

    Without electricity, your refrigerator won’t keep food cold for long. Freezers can preserve food a bit longer, but in a prolonged blackout, spoilage is likely. To stay prepared, stock your pantry with non-perishable items that require little to no preparation. Canned goods like beans, vegetables and soup are reliable staples. Dried fruits, nuts, crackers, powdered milk and cereal also tend to have a reasonably long shelf life.

    You may want to get some bottled water, too, just in case something happens with the water supply during the power outage.

    Is your portfolio prepared?

    Being ready for a blackout isn’t just about flashlights and canned goods — it’s also about financial resilience. Geopolitical risks remain elevated, and markets have been anything but steady, with repeated shocks sending investors scrambling for cover.

    That’s why some investors have turned to assets deemed shockproof — investments that can hold their value, or even gain, during times of uncertainty.

    Ray Dalio, founder of the world’s largest hedge fund, Bridgewater Associates, recently highlighted the role of one time-tested asset in a resilient portfolio.

    “People don’t have, typically, an adequate amount of gold in their portfolio,” Dalio told CNBC in February. “When bad times come, gold is a very effective diversifier.”

    Long viewed as the ultimate safe haven, gold isn’t tied to any single country, currency or economy. It can’t be printed out of thin air like fiat money, and in times of economic turmoil or geopolitical uncertainty, investors tend to pile in — driving up its value.

    Over the past 12 months, gold prices have surged by more than 35%.

    One way to invest in gold that also provides significant tax advantages is to open a gold IRA with the help of American Hartford Gold.

    Gold IRAs allow investors to hold physical gold or gold-related assets within a retirement account — combining the tax advantages of an IRA with the protective benefits of investing in gold, making it an option for those looking to potentially hedge their retirement funds against economic uncertainties.

    Even better, you can often roll over existing 401(k) or IRA accounts into a gold IRA without tax-related penalties. To learn more, get your free 2025 information guide on investing in precious metals.

    Qualifying purchases can also receive up to $20,000 in free silver.

    Read more: Want an extra $1,300,000 when you retire? Dave Ramsey says this 7-step plan ‘works every single time’ to kill debt, get rich in America — and that ‘anyone’ can do it

    Real estate is another popular choice for investors looking to diversify. High-quality, income-generating properties can provide a steady stream of rental income — even when markets swing wildly.

    Of course, being a landlord comes with its own challenges. Managing tenants, maintenance and repairs can quickly add up in both time and cost. But today, you don’t need to buy an entire property — or fix a single leaky faucet — to invest in real estate.

    One option is Homeshares, which gives access to the $30-plus trillion U.S. home equity market — a space that has historically been the exclusive playground of institutional investors. With a minimum investment of $25,000, accredited investors can gain direct exposure to hundreds of owner-occupied homes in top U.S. cities through their U.S. Home Equity Fund — without the headaches of buying, owning or managing property.

    With risk-adjusted target returns ranging from 14% to 17%, this approach provides an effective, hands-off way to invest in owner-occupied residential properties across regional markets.

    Another option is First National Realty Partners (FNRP), which allows accredited investors to diversify their portfolio through grocery-anchored commercial properties without taking on the responsibilities of being a landlord.

    With a minimum investment of $50,000, investors can own a share of properties leased by national brands like Whole Foods, Kroger and Walmart, which provide essential goods to their communities. Thanks to Triple Net (NNN) leases, accredited investors are able to invest in these properties without worrying about tenant costs cutting into their potential returns.

    Simply answer a few questions — including how much you would like to invest — to start browsing their full list of available properties.

    What to read next

    Like what you read? Join 200,000+ readers and get the best of Moneywise straight to your inbox every week. Subscribe for free.

    This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

  • ‘He who has the gold makes the rules’: Trump roars back at tariff critics — while declaring himself ‘the greatest friend’ of American capitalism. Do you agree?

    We adhere to strict standards of editorial integrity to help you make decisions with confidence. Some or all links contained within this article are paid links.

    Donald Trump’s sweeping tariffs have sparked a chorus of criticism from across the political and economic spectrum — with lawmakers, CEOs and economists warning of rising costs and escalating trade tensions.

    But the president isn’t backing down. Even after announcing a pause on some tariffs, Trump is doubling down on his hardline stance.

    Don’t miss

    “The businessmen who criticize tariffs are bad at business, but really bad at politics,” he declared in a fiery Truth Social post on April 20. “They don’t understand or realize that I am the greatest friend that American capitalism has ever had!”

    For Trump, the tariff fight isn’t just about economics — it’s about leverage.

    “The golden rule of negotiating and success: He who has the gold makes the rules,” he wrote in a follow-up post, further signaling that the tariffs are part of a larger strategy to bring global rivals to the table.

    And according to Trump, the strategy is working. He claimed that “many world leaders and business executives” are already coming to him, seeking relief from the trade penalties. But Trump insisted these leaders “must right the wrongs of decades of abuse” — and warned “it won’t be easy for them.”

    Whether Trump will ultimately be successful or not, investors are preparing for a rough ride, with many fleeing U.S. stocks for more stable options. If you’re looking to protect yourself during the president’s big gambit, here are two key assets to consider.

    A golden hedge for uncertain times

    Markets have reacted nervously to Trump’s sweeping tariffs — and not in a good way. While stocks have stumbled under the weight of trade uncertainty, one asset has stood out as a bright spot: gold.

    Long viewed as the ultimate safe haven, gold isn’t tied to any single country, currency or economy. It can’t be printed out of thin air like fiat money, and in times of economic turmoil or geopolitical uncertainty, investors tend to pile in — driving up its value.

    Over the past 12 months, gold prices have surged by more than 40%.

    That makes Trump’s claim “he who has the gold makes the rules” feel like more than just a negotiating mantra. It’s also a reminder of gold’s enduring appeal in times of crisis.

    Ray Dalio, founder of the world’s largest hedge fund, Bridgewater Associates, recently highlighted gold’s purpose in a resilient portfolio.

    “People don’t have, typically, an adequate amount of gold in their portfolio,” Dalio told CNBC. “When bad times come, gold is a very effective diversifier.”

    One way to invest in gold that also provides significant tax advantages is to open a gold IRA with the help of American Hartford Gold.

    Gold IRAs allow investors to hold physical gold or gold-related assets within a retirement account — combining the tax advantages of an IRA with the protective benefits of investing in gold. This makes it an attractive option for those looking to potentially hedge their retirement funds against economic uncertainties.

    Even better, you can often roll over existing 401(k) or IRA accounts into a gold IRA without tax-related penalties. To learn more, get your free 2025 information guide on investing in precious metals.

    Qualifying purchases can also receive up to $20,000 in free silver.

    Read more: Want an extra $1,300,000 when you retire? Dave Ramsey says this 7-step plan ‘works every single time’ to kill debt, get rich in America — and that ‘anyone’ can do it

    The asset that made Trump rich

    If gold is the common go-to hedge for moments of chaos, real estate is the long game — and no one knows that better than Trump himself.

    Before politics, Trump made his fortune in real estate — and the asset class remains a powerful tool for building and preserving wealth, especially during inflationary times. That’s because property values and rental income tend to rise along with the cost of living.

    As Trump told Steve Forbes back in 2011, “I just notice that when you have that right piece of property, whatever it might be, including location, it tends to work well in good times and in bad times.”

    Today, you don’t need to buy a property outright to benefit from real estate investing.

    For accredited investors, Homeshares gives access to the $34.9 trillion U.S. home equity market, which has historically been the exclusive playground of institutional investors.

    With a minimum investment of $25,000, investors can gain direct exposure to hundreds of owner-occupied homes in top U.S. cities through their U.S. Home Equity Fund — without the headaches of buying, owning or managing property.

    With risk-adjusted internal returns ranging from 12% to 18%, this approach provides an effective, hands-off way to invest in owner-occupied residential properties across regional markets.

    Another option is First National Realty Partners (FNRP), which allows accredited investors to diversify their portfolio through grocery-anchored commercial properties.

    With a minimum investment of $50,000, investors can own a share of properties leased by national brands like Whole Foods, Kroger and Walmart, which provide essential goods to their communities. Thanks to Triple Net (NNN) leases, accredited investors are able to invest in these properties without worrying about tenant costs cutting into their potential returns.

    Simply answer a few questions — including how much you would like to invest — to start browsing their full list of available properties.

    What to read next

    Like what you read? Join 200,000+ readers and get the best of Moneywise straight to your inbox every week. Subscribe for free.

    This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

  • Trump claims tariffs could ‘completely eliminate’ income taxes for Americans making under $200,000 — but is it for real? These 2 assets can help slash your tax bill no matter what he does

    Trump claims tariffs could ‘completely eliminate’ income taxes for Americans making under $200,000 — but is it for real? These 2 assets can help slash your tax bill no matter what he does

    We adhere to strict standards of editorial integrity to help you make decisions with confidence. Some or all links contained within this article are paid links.

    President Donald Trump says tariffs could deliver a financial windfall for everyday Americans — by wiping out their income taxes.

    “When tariffs cut in, many people’s income taxes will be substantially reduced, maybe even completely eliminated,” Trump declared in a Truth Social post on April 27. “Focus will be on people making less than $200,000 a year.”

    That’s a bold promise, especially considering that only 14.4% of U.S. households earned more than $200,000 annually in 2023, according to Census Bureau data. In other words, if Trump’s vision holds true, the vast majority of Americans would pay no income tax at all.

    Don’t miss

    But don’t celebrate just yet. While Trump is optimistic, experts say the math simply doesn’t add up.

    Economists Erica York and Huaqun Li of the Tax Foundation were blunt, explaining in a response on April 28 that “the individual income tax raises more than 27 times as much revenue as tariffs currently do,” and “even eliminating income taxes for a subset of taxpayers, such as those earning $200,000 or less, would require significantly higher replacement revenues than tariffs could generate.”

    They estimate that the tariffs Trump has imposed and scheduled as of April 2025 would generate nearly $167 billion in new federal tax revenue in 2025 — covering less than 25% of the cost of eliminating income taxes for people earning below $200,000.

    While Trump’s proposal faces serious doubts, policy changes aren’t the only route to lowering tax bills. Here are two powerful assets that everyday investors can use to their advantage.

    Stocks

    Scott Galloway, professor of marketing at New York University’s Stern School of Business, once said that if you’re trying to build wealth, you have “an obligation to pay as little tax as possible.”

    His advice? Keep it simple: “You buy stocks, you never sell them, you borrow against them.”

    Galloway broke it down with an example: “You own $100 in Amazon stock. You need money to buy something. Instead of selling the stock, and let’s say it’s gone up 50% … You would have to realize a capital gain and pay long-term capital gains [tax] on that $50 gain. No, just borrow against it and let the stock continue to grow.”

    This strategy allows investors to tap into the value of their portfolios without triggering a taxable event. Because capital gains are only taxed when realized, borrowing against appreciated assets lets investors access cash while deferring taxes.

    Meanwhile, the investments themselves can continue to grow. And since the interest on the loan is often smaller than the tax bill from a sale, this approach can be a powerful tool for preserving and compounding wealth over time.

    Of course, not all investors want to pick individual stocks — and you don’t have to. Warren Buffett, one of the most successful investors of our time, recommends a much simpler path: buying a cross-section of the American economy.

    “In my view, for most people, the best thing to do is own the S&P 500 index,” Buffett has stated, meaning invest in an S&P 500 index fund. This straightforward approach gives investors exposure to the top American companies on the stock market, providing diversified exposure without the need for constant monitoring or active trading.

    The beauty of this approach is its accessibility — anyone, regardless of wealth, can take advantage of it. Even small amounts can grow over time with tools like Acorns, a popular app that automatically invests your spare change.

    Signing up for Acorns takes just minutes: link your cards, and Acorns will round up each purchase to the nearest dollar, investing the difference — your spare change — into a diversified portfolio. With Acorns, you can invest in an S&P 500 ETF with as little as $5 — and, if you sign up today, Acorns will add a $20 bonus to help you begin your investment journey.

    Read more: Want an extra $1,300,000 when you retire? Dave Ramsey says this 7-step plan ‘works every single time’ to kill debt, get rich in America — and that ‘anyone’ can do it

    Real estate

    Real estate has long been a go-to asset for building wealth — and one of the reasons is the generous tax treatment it receives.

    When you earn rental income from an investment property, you can claim deductions for a wide range of expenses, such as mortgage interest, property taxes, insurance and ongoing maintenance and repairs.

    Real estate investors also benefit from depreciation — a tax deduction that recognizes the gradual wear and tear of a property over time.

    Today, you don’t need to be a millionaire or buy property outright to benefit from real estate investing.

    For example, Homeshares opens the door to the $30-plus trillion U.S. home equity market — a space that was once reserved almost exclusively for institutional investors. With a minimum investment of $25,000, accredited investors can gain direct exposure to hundreds of owner-occupied homes in top U.S. cities through their U.S. Home Equity Fund — without the headaches of buying, owning or managing property.

    With risk-adjusted target returns ranging from 14% to 17%, this approach provides an effective, hands-off way to invest in owner-occupied residential properties across regional markets.

    If you’re an accredited investor looking for larger returns through commercial real estate, First National Realty Partners (FNRP) could be a better fit with a $50,000 minimum investment requirement.

    Specializing in grocery-anchored retail, FNRP offers a turnkey solution for investors, allowing them to passively earn distribution income while benefiting from the firm’s expertise and deal leadership.

    FNRP has developed relationships with the nation’s largest essential-needs brands, including Kroger, Walmart and Whole Foods, and provides insights into the best properties both on and off-market. And since the investments are necessity-based, they tend to perform well during times of economic volatility and act as a hedge against inflation.

    You can engage with experts, explore available deals and easily make an allocation, all in one personalized, secure portal.

    What to read next

    Like what you read? Join 200,000+ readers and get the best of Moneywise straight to your inbox every week. Subscribe for free.

    This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

  • ‘Congress is making America bankrupt,’ warns Elon Musk — blasts Trump for ‘disgusting’ bill that will burden US citizens, increase deficit to $2.5 trillion. Here’s how to protect yourself now

    We adhere to strict standards of editorial integrity to help you make decisions with confidence. Some or all links contained within this article are paid links.

    Tesla CEO Elon Musk has a stark warning for Americans.

    “Congress is making America bankrupt,” he wrote in a June 3 post on X.

    The comment came as Musk reposted a chart from X account World of Statistics, showing U.S. budget deficits from 2000 to 2024 — and the numbers are sobering.

    Don’t miss

    In fiscal 2000, the federal government posted a $236 billion surplus, followed by a $128 billion surplus in 2001. (The chart didn’t distinguish between deficits and surpluses, but those two years were surpluses, according to Federal Reserve data.)

    Unfortunately, that was the last time Washington ran a budget in the black.

    By 2002, the U.S. had fallen into a $158 billion deficit — spending more than it collected in revenue. The gap only widened in the years that followed, reaching $1.29 trillion in 2010 and ballooning to $3.13 trillion in 2020.

    For fiscal 2024, the U.S. government spent $6.75 trillion while taking in $4.92 trillion, resulting in a $1.83 trillion deficit.

    Musk has long criticized excess government spending, and he recently took aim at President Donald Trump’s signature budget bill.

    “This massive, outrageous, pork-filled Congressional spending bill is a disgusting abomination,” Musk wrote on X. “Shame on those who voted for it: You know you did wrong.”

    He also warned that the bill could push the federal deficit to $2.5 trillion and saddle Americans with “crushingly unsustainable debt.”

    Will America go bankrupt?

    Years of deficit spending have added up: U.S. national debt now stands at more than $36 trillion — and continues to climb.

    Whether America can technically go bankrupt is a complicated question because the federal government cannot file for Chapter 11 bankruptcy reorganization.

    Instead, Congress would have to decide to let the federal government default on its debt, otherwise it can keep borrowing as long as there is demand from investors for government bonds.

    “Technically speaking, the government can’t go bankrupt because it only promised to hand over a certain number of dollars; it didn’t promise what the value of those dollars would be. Because the value of the dollars was never specified, the government can print enough to render the dollars nearly worthless. To the rest of us, the effect is the same as the government going bankrupt,” wrote the co-hosts of podcast Words & Numbers back in 2016.

    In other words, printing money to stay afloat has significant consequences, as inflation erodes the purchasing power of the U.S. dollar.

    Ray Dalio, founder of the world’s largest hedge fund, Bridgewater Associates, echoed this concern earlier this year.

    “There won’t be a default — the central bank will come in, and we’ll print the money and buy it,” he told CNBC in February. “And that’s where there’s the depreciation of money.”

    How to protect your purchasing power

    For many Americans, the sting of inflation still lingers. Although headline CPI has eased from its 40-year peak of 9.1% in June 2022, everyday essentials — like food and housing — remain stubbornly expensive.

    While warning that U.S. debt is spiraling out of control, Dalio points to a tried-and-true safeguard: gold.

    “People don’t have, typically, an adequate amount of gold in their portfolio,” he said. “When bad times come, gold is a very effective diversifier.”

    Gold has long served as a hedge against inflation. Unlike fiat currencies, it can’t be printed in unlimited quantities by central banks — a feature that makes it especially appealing when governments ramp up spending.

    It’s also considered a classic safe haven. Because gold isn’t tied to the fate of any single country or currency, it often sees inflows during periods of economic distress or geopolitical uncertainty — pushing prices higher.

    Over the past 12 months, gold prices have surged by more than 40%.

    One way to invest in gold that also provides significant tax advantages is to open a gold IRA with the help of Priority Gold.

    Gold IRAs allow investors to hold physical gold or gold-related assets within a retirement account, thereby combining the tax advantages of an IRA with the protective benefits of investing in gold, making it an option for those looking to help shield their retirement funds against economic uncertainties.

    When you make a qualifying purchase with Priority Gold, you can receive up to $10,000 in silver for free.

    Read more: Want an extra $1,300,000 when you retire? Dave Ramsey says this 7-step plan ‘works every single time’ to kill debt, get rich in America — and that ‘anyone’ can do it

    A time-tested income play

    Gold isn’t the only asset investors turn to during inflationary times. Real estate has also proven to be a powerful hedge.

    When inflation rises, property values often increase as well, reflecting the higher costs of materials, labor and land. At the same time, rental income tends to go up, providing landlords with a revenue stream that adjusts for inflation.

    Over the past five years, the S&P CoreLogic Case-Shiller U.S. National Home Price NSA Index has jumped by more than 50%, reflecting strong demand and limited housing supply.

    Of course, high home prices can make buying a home more challenging, especially with mortgage rates still elevated. And being a landlord isn’t exactly hands-off work. Managing tenants, maintenance and repairs can quickly eat into your time (and returns).

    The good news? You don’t need to buy a property outright — or deal with leaky faucets — to invest in real estate today.

    Homeshares gives accredited investors access to the $35 trillion U.S. home equity market — a space that’s historically been the exclusive playground of institutional investors.

    With a minimum investment of $25,000, investors can gain direct exposure to hundreds of owner-occupied homes in top U.S. cities through their U.S. Home Equity Fund — without the headaches of buying, owning or managing property.

    With risk-adjusted target returns ranging from 14% to 17%, this approach provides an effective, hands-off way to invest in owner-occupied residential properties across regional markets.

    Another option is First National Realty Partners (FNRP), which allows accredited investors to diversify their portfolio through grocery-anchored commercial properties, without taking on the responsibilities of being a landlord.

    With a minimum investment of $50,000, investors can own a share of properties leased by national brands like Whole Foods, Kroger and Walmart, which provide essential goods to their communities. Thanks to Triple Net (NNN) leases, accredited investors are able to invest in these properties without worrying about tenant costs cutting into their potential returns.

    Simply answer a few questions – including how much you would like to invest – to start browsing their full list of available properties.

    What to read next

    Like what you read? Join 200,000+ readers and get the best of Moneywise straight to your inbox every week. Subscribe for free.

    This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

  • Uncle Sam might sell more than 16,000,000 acres of federal California land to build more houses — but critics call it ‘un-American.’ Would you support the move?

    Uncle Sam might sell more than 16,000,000 acres of federal California land to build more houses — but critics call it ‘un-American.’ Would you support the move?

    We adhere to strict standards of editorial integrity to help you make decisions with confidence. Some or all links contained within this article are paid links.

    Owning a home has become increasingly out of reach for many Americans — especially in California. Now, the federal government is proposing a bold, controversial fix: selling off its own land.

    As part of President Donald Trump’s proposed “Big, Beautiful Bill,” the U.S. government is considering selling more than 16 million acres of federal land in California for housing development. Nationwide, The Wilderness Society says the bill would put more than 250 million acres of public land up for sale.

    Housing affordability has long been a challenge in the U.S. and many experts blame a fundamental shortage of supply.

    Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell underscored this last year at a press conference, stating, “The real issue with housing is that we have had and are on track to continue to have, not enough housing.” He also pointed to the difficulty of finding and zoning land in desirable areas, asking, “Where are we going to get the supply?”

    Don’t miss

    A recent Realtor.com analysis indicates a shortfall of 3.8 million homes in America’s housing supply.

    Selling federal land to build homes might ease that shortage — but not everyone is on board.

    “The thought of the sale of public lands is pretty un-American,” Katie Hawkins, California program director for the nonprofit coalition Outdoor Alliance, told CBS News Sacramento.

    Even a Republican lawmaker is sounding the alarm.

    "It is so important that any decisions made regarding the acquisition or disposition of these lands be made only after significant and meaningful local input," Rep. Kevin Kiley (R-CA) recently told Congress.

    Homeownership slipping further out of reach

    California has long been notorious for its sky-high cost of living — and housing is a major reason for that.

    According to data from real estate brokerage Redfin, the median sale price of a home in the U.S. was $441,738 in May 2025. In California, that figure jumped to $859,100 — nearly double the national median.

    That kind of price tag puts homeownership out of reach for many residents. A recent study found that U.S. buyers need an annual income of $213,447 to afford a typical home in the Golden State.

    But this affordability crisis isn’t limited to California. Home prices across the country have soared. Over the past five years, Redfin data show the median U.S. home price has surged by 48%.

    Getting a piece of the real estate pie

    Despite elevated prices, real estate remains one of the most sought-after assets — and for good reason. It’s a tangible, income-generating investment that has historically held its value during periods of inflation.

    When inflation rises, property values often increase as well, reflecting the higher costs of materials, labor and land. At the same time, rental income tends to go up, providing landlords with a revenue stream that adjusts with inflation.

    Investing legend Warren Buffett has long pointed to real estate as a prime example of a productive, income-generating asset. In 2022, he famously said at an annual shareholders meeting that if you offered him “1% of all the apartment houses in the country” for $25 billion, he would “write you a check.”

    Read more: Want an extra $1,300,000 when you retire? Dave Ramsey says this 7-step plan ‘works every single time’ to kill debt, get rich in America — and that ‘anyone’ can do it

    Why? Because no matter what’s happening in the broader economy, people still need a place to live and apartments can consistently produce rental income.

    The good news? You don’t need billions — or even the budget to buy a single property outright — to start investing in real estate today. Crowdfunding platforms like Arrived offer an easier way to get exposure to this income-generating asset class.

    Backed by world class investors like Jeff Bezos, Arrived allows you to invest in shares of rental homes with as little as $100, all without the hassle of mowing lawns, fixing leaky faucets or handling difficult tenants.

    The process is simple: Browse a curated selection of homes that have been vetted for their appreciation and income potential. Once you find a property you like, select the number of shares you’d like to purchase, and then sit back as you start receiving any positive rental income distributions from your investment.

    Another option is Homeshares, which gives accredited investors access to the $35 trillion U.S. home equity market — a space that’s historically been the exclusive playground of institutional investors.

    With a minimum investment of $25,000, investors can gain direct exposure to hundreds of owner-occupied homes in top U.S. cities through their U.S. Home Equity Fund — without the headaches of buying, owning or managing property.

    With risk-adjusted target returns ranging from 14% to 17%, this approach provides an effective, hands-off way to invest in owner-occupied residential properties across regional markets.

    What to read next

    Like what you read? Join 200,000+ readers and get the best of Moneywise straight to your inbox every week. Subscribe for free.

    This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

  • This 1 part of Florida is emerging as America’s ‘epicenter of housing weakness’ — expert warns of ‘really long’ bubble deflation. Will it spread to the rest of the US?

    We adhere to strict standards of editorial integrity to help you make decisions with confidence. Some or all links contained within this article are paid links.

    Bubbles don’t always burst — sometimes they deflate. But the process can still be painful, as some Florida home sellers are now discovering.

    According to a Bloomberg analysis of Redfin data, the number of contracts to buy homes in Miami, Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach dropped in April compared to a year ago, marking the steepest declines among the 50 largest metro areas in the U.S.

    Don’t miss

    Notably, pending sales in Miami plunged 23%, while transactions in Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach declined by 19% and 14%, respectively.

    According to Chen Zhao, head of economics research at Redfin, the region is clearly under pressure.

    “South Florida is the epicenter of housing market weakness in the United States,” she told Bloomberg.

    Homes are also sitting on the market much longer than elsewhere. In April, the median time to sell in West Palm Beach and Fort Lauderdale was 83 days, and 81 days in Miami — more than double the national average of 40 days.

    South Florida saw a historic run-up in prices during the pandemic, with homes routinely selling above asking price. But the tide has turned.

    In April, the median home sale price across Florida fell 3.2% year over year. And in West Palm Beach, Miami and Fort Lauderdale, nearly 5% of homes sold below asking — compared to just 0.77% nationally.

    “I think you’re seeing a really long, slow deflation of that bubble,” Zhao said in the Bloomberg analysis, reflecting on the shifting market dynamics.

    And while Florida may be feeling the pain, Zhao cautions it might not be the only state that ends up struggling: “The question for the rest of the country is, will this spread? Florida is uniquely bad right now.”

    ‘Not enough housing’

    Florida’s housing market seems to be under pressure, but that doesn’t necessarily signal a nationwide collapse. In fact, according to Redfin, the median U.S. home sale price in April was $437,864 — up 1.3% from a year earlier.

    Zoom out further, and the long-term trend remains clear: Redfin data show U.S. home prices have surged roughly 45% over the past five years.

    Affordability, however, remains a major challenge due to the imbalance between supply and demand. As Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell acknowledged in a press conference last year, the real issue behind America’s housing crisis is clear: “We have had, and are on track to continue to have, not enough housing.”

    A June 2024 analysis by Zillow estimates the U.S. housing shortage at 4.5 million homes — a gap that continues to support demand and rental prices in many regions.

    Meanwhile, many investors view real estate as a time-tested hedge against inflation. As the cost of materials, labor and land rises, property values often follow — and so do rents. This allows landlords to earn income that tends to keep pace with inflation.

    Of course, with today’s high home prices, elevated mortgage rates and an uncertain outlook, jumping into the market might feel daunting. But the good news is, you no longer need to buy a property outright to tap into the benefits of real estate investing.

    For accredited investors, Homeshares gives access to the $36 trillion U.S. home equity market, which has historically been the exclusive playground of institutional investors.

    With a minimum investment of $25,000, investors can gain direct exposure to hundreds of owner-occupied homes in top U.S. cities through their U.S. Home Equity Fund — without the headaches of buying, owning or managing property.

    With risk-adjusted internal returns ranging from 14% to 17%, this approach provides an effective, hands-off way to invest in owner-occupied residential properties across regional markets.

    Another option is First National Realty Partners (FNRP), which allows accredited investors to diversify their portfolio through grocery-anchored commercial properties, without taking on the responsibilities of being a landlord.

    With a minimum investment of $50,000, investors can own a share of properties leased by national brands like Whole Foods, Kroger and Walmart, which provide essential goods to their communities. Thanks to Triple Net (NNN) leases, accredited investors are able to invest in these properties without worrying about tenant costs cutting into their potential returns.

    Simply answer a few questions — including how much you would like to invest — to start browsing their full list of available properties.

    Read more: Want an extra $1,300,000 when you retire? Dave Ramsey says this 7-step plan ‘works every single time’ to kill debt, get rich in America — and that ‘anyone’ can do it

    Hedge against chaos

    If you’re uneasy about where the U.S. housing market — or the broader economy — is headed, you’re not alone. Warnings from top economists and investors are piling up.

    Nobel Prize–winning economist Paul Krugman has cautioned that a recession could hit the U.S. this year. Meanwhile, Ray Dalio — founder of the world’s largest hedge fund, Bridgewater Associates — recently sounded the alarm on “something worse than a recession.”

    With soaring national debt, persistent fiscal deficits and rising geopolitical tensions, it’s no surprise that markets have been on edge. So where can investors turn for shelter?

    Dalio points to a familiar safe haven: gold.

    “People don’t have, typically, an adequate amount of gold in their portfolio,” he told CNBC in February. “When bad times come, gold is a very effective diversifier.”

    Long viewed as the ultimate safe haven, gold isn’t tied to any single country, currency or economy. It can’t be printed out of thin air like fiat money, and in times of economic turmoil or geopolitical uncertainty, investors tend to pile in — driving up its value.

    Hence why, over the past 12 months, gold prices have surged by more than 40%.

    One way to invest in gold that also provides significant tax advantages is to open a gold IRA with the help of Priority Gold.

    Gold IRAs allow investors to hold physical gold or gold-related assets within a retirement account, thereby combining the tax advantages of an IRA with the protective benefits of investing in gold, making it an option for those looking to help shield their retirement funds against economic uncertainties.

    When you make a qualifying purchase with Priority Gold, you can receive up to $10,000 in silver for free.

    What to read next

    Like what you read? Join 200,000+ readers and get the best of Moneywise straight to your inbox every week. Subscribe for free.

    This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.