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Author: Jing Pan

  • This top EU official admits ‘Trump is right’ about his China warning — agrees the Asian powerhouse is a ‘serious problem’ that threatens us all. Here’s why and how to protect yourself

    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.

    European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen hasn’t shied away from criticizing U.S. President Donald Trump — especially when it comes to his sweeping tariffs. But lately, the two have aligned on a shared concern: China.

    “When we focus our attention on tariffs between partners, it diverts our energy from the real challenge — one that threatens us all,” von der Leyen said during the “Global economic outlook” roundtable at the G7 Leaders’ Summit in Kananaskis, Alberta.

    “On this point, Donald is right — there is a serious problem,” she admitted. “The biggest collective problem we have has its origins in the accession of China to the WTO in 2001 … China has largely shown … unwillingness to live within the constraints of the rules based international system.”

    Don’t miss

    In particular, von der Leyen accused China of “undercutting intellectual property protections” and providing “massive subsidies with the aim to dominate global manufacturing and supply chains.”

    She said China’s actions don’t reflect fair market competition, but instead represent “distortion with intent,” which she warned undermines the manufacturing sectors of its trading partners.

    In her statement, von der Leyen urged G7 nations to confront the issue together, noting that the bloc represents 45% of global GDP and more than 80% of global intellectual property revenues — leverage that could be used to pressure China.

    The European Commission chief also revealed she is “working closely” with Trump on a mutually beneficial trade agreement.

    Her remarks echo Trump’s long-standing warnings about China — and add momentum to the broader push among Western nations to rethink their economic ties.

    For investors, it could be a wake-up call: When global power shifts, it pays to have something solid in your corner.

    A time-tested safe haven

    With global tensions rising and major economies reassessing their trade ties, investors are turning to assets that can hold up in turbulent times. One that continues to stand out, according to legendary hedge fund manager Ray Dalio, is gold.

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

    Long seen 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 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, which combines the tax advantages of an IRA with the protective benefits of investing in gold, making it an attractive option for those looking to potentially hedge their retirement funds against economic uncertainties.

    To learn more, you can get a free information guide that includes details on how to get up to $10,000 in free silver on qualifying purchases.

    Read more: You don’t have to be a millionaire to gain access to this $1B private real estate fund. In fact, you can get started with as little as $10 — here’s how

    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.

    Unlike some other investments, real estate doesn’t need a roaring stock market to deliver returns. Even during downturns, high-quality properties can generate rental income — offering a dependable stream of passive cash flow.

    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. 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

    Money doesn’t have to be complicated — sign up for the free Moneywise newsletter for actionable finance tips and news you can use. Join now.

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

  • Warren Buffett warns against this 1 big money mistake during wartime — says it’s the ‘last thing’ you should do in ‘virtually’ every war. Are you making the same error as the US attacks Iran?

    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.

    The U.S. has carried out strikes on three of Iran’s key nuclear sites. President Donald Trump recently claimed the facilities were “completely and totally obliterated,” while Iran vowed to CNN that America will “pay” for its attacks “directly.”

    Iran retaliated by firing missiles at a U.S. military base in Qatar — and the threat of escalation is real. On the night of the initial U.S. strike, Trump warned on social media platform Truth that “any retaliation” by Iran against the U.S. would be met with “force far greater than what was witnessed tonight.”

    Don’t miss

    While Trump announced a ceasefire between Israel and Iran on June 23, it’s now in question — just hours later. Both countries have since violated the agreement, according to Trump.

    "We basically have two countires that have been fighting for so long and so hard, that they don’t know what the f— they’re doing," he told the press as he left for the NATO summit.

    For investors, the uncertainty is unsettling as the U.S. becomes further entangled in the Israel-Iran conflict. While geopolitical experts continue to weigh in, legendary investor Warren Buffett has offered a timeless perspective on what investors should — and shouldn’t — do during times of war.

    “The one thing you can be quite sure of is if we went into some very major war, the value of money would go down — that’s happened in virtually every war that I’m aware of,” Buffett told CNBC in 2014, the last time Russia invaded Ukraine.

    “The last thing you’d want to do is hold money during a war.”

    In times of heightened uncertainty — when markets swing on every headline — it can be tempting to retreat into cash for safety. But Buffett’s warning highlights a crucial point: War often fuels inflation. It typically brings a surge in government spending, reduced production of consumer goods and supply chain disruptions — all of which can drive prices higher.

    What should investors own then?

    “You might want to own a farm, you might want to own an apartment house, you might want to own securities,” he said.

    Let’s take a closer look at these assets.

    Securities

    To illustrate how stocks can perform during conflict, Buffett pointed to World War II.

    “During World War II, the stock market advanced — the stock market is going to advance over time. American businesses are going to be worth more money, dollars are going to be worth less, so that money won’t buy you quite as much,” he told CNBC.

    “But you’re going to be a lot better off owning productive assets over the next 50 years, than you will be owning pieces of paper.”

    Buffett has long championed a straightforward way for everyday investors to put this principle into action — no stock-picking skills required.

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

    The beauty of this approach is its accessibility — anyone, regardless of wealth, can take advantage of it. With Wealthfront’s automated investing platform, the power of compound interest works for you. Their sophisticated "set it and forget it" approach means your money is professionally managed and automatically rebalanced, allowing your wealth to grow steadily over time.

    Start investing for the long term with globally diversified portfolios or go for a higher yield than a traditional savings account with an automated bond portfolio.

    Open your account today and receive a $50 bonus to jumpstart your investment journey. Whether you’re saving for retirement, a home, or building generational wealth, Wealthfront’s low-cost, automated investment strategy can help you achieve your financial goals.

    Read more: You don’t have to be a millionaire to gain access to this $1B private real estate fund. In fact, you can get started with as little as $10 — here’s how

    Real estate

    In that 2014 interview, Buffett named “apartment houses” as one of the assets you might want to own during wartime. He has repeatedly pointed to real estate as a prime example of a productive, income-generating asset.

    In 2022, Buffett 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 no matter what’s happening in the broader economy, people still need a place to live and apartments can consistently produce rental income.

    Real estate also provides a natural 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.

    The best part? You don’t need to be a billionaire to start investing in real estate today.

    One option is Homeshares, which gives access to the $30 trillion-plus 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.

    Farmland

    Buffett’s comment that “you might want to own a farm” during wartime reflects a simple truth: Come what may, people still need to eat.

    Even in times of peace, farmland has proven to be a valuable asset. According to the USDA, U.S. farmland values have steadily climbed over the past few decades, driven by increasing demand for food and limited supply of arable land.

    These days, you don’t need to buy an entire farm or know how to grow crops to get in on the opportunity.

    FarmTogether is an all-in-one investment platform that lets qualified investors buy stakes in U.S. farmland. The platform identifies high-potential agricultural properties and then partners with experienced local operators to manage the land effectively.

    Depending on the type of stake you want, you can get a cut from both the leasing fees and crop sales, providing you with a cash income. Then, years down the line after the farm rises in value, you can benefit from the appreciated land and profit from its sale.

    What to read next

    Money doesn’t have to be complicated — sign up for the free Moneywise newsletter for actionable finance tips and news you can use. Join now.

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

  • Jerome Powell was just hit with a criminal referral over Fed’s $2.5B renovation project — Trump ally accuses him of lying about ‘luxury features.’ Here’s what it might mean for your nest egg

    Jerome Powell was just hit with a criminal referral over Fed’s $2.5B renovation project — Trump ally accuses him of lying about ‘luxury features.’ Here’s what it might mean for your nest egg

    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.

    Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell faces a criminal referral from Republican Congresswoman Anna Paulina Luna — the latest escalation in GOP scrutiny of the central bank’s spending and leadership.

    On July 19, Luna sent a letter to Attorney General Pam Bondi urging the Department of Justice to investigate Powell for potential perjury and making false statements to federal officials.

    Don’t miss

    The referral centers on Powell’s June 25 statements under oath before the Senate Committee on Banking, where he addressed the $2.5 billion renovation of the Fed’s historic Eccles Building. In a news release, Luna claims he “knowingly misled” officials about the nature of the project during testimony, in which he “denied the inclusion of luxury features.”

    “[Powell] stated: ‘There’s no VIP dining room, there’s no new marble … there are no special elevators, just old elevators that have been there; there are no new water features, there’s no beehives and there’s no roof terrace gardens,’” she wrote in the letter.

    But according to Luna, his statement doesn’t match up with filed documents. Citing the Federal Reserve’s final submission to the National Capital Planning Commission, she said nearly all of Powell’s denials — aside from the beehives — are contradicted by actual renovation plans.

    She also pointed in the letter to Powell’s statement that the building “never had” a serious renovation, despite a previous project from 1999 to 2003.

    If Powell knowingly misrepresented the facts, Luna argues, his actions may constitute perjury or materially false statements under federal law.

    According to Fox News, trade outlet Mortgage Professional reported that Powell has denied all allegations of perjury and has called for a formal watchdog investigation into the Eccles Building’s renovation costs.

    Trump, Powell and the fate of your heard-earned dollar

    There’s been growing tension between President Donald Trump and Powell based on a fundamental disagreement over interest rates. Trump has repeatedly criticized Powell — calling him names like “numbskull,” “Mr. Too Late” and a “major loser” — for the Fed’s decision to keep its benchmark rate in the 4.25% to 4.50% range throughout the year. Trump insists rates should be as much as three percentage points lower to help the economy

    Trump has said he isn’t planning on firing Powell, but also hasn’t ruled out the possibility. Powell’s term as Fed chair runs through May 2026, and he has said he does not intend to leave early.

    While uncertainty lingers around Powell’s future, it’s worth remembering the core purpose of the Fed. As the nation’s central bank, it operates under a dual mandate: to pursue maximum employment and maintain price stability.

    In a statement released June 18, the Federal Open Market Committee noted that unemployment remains low and labor market conditions are solid — but inflation “remains somewhat elevated.”

    That may explain why the Fed isn’t cutting rates. While lower interest rates — the kind Trump has called for — could boost economic activity, they also risk reigniting inflation. And the 40-year high inflation rate Americans endured in 2022 is still fresh in the rearview mirror.

    The good news? Savvy investors have long relied on certain assets to shield their wealth from inflation’s bite — no matter who’s running the Fed.

    A safe haven shines again

    Gold has helped people preserve their wealth for thousands of years. Today, its appeal is simple: unlike fiat currencies, the yellow metal can’t be printed at will by central banks.

    It’s also widely regarded as the ultimate safe haven. Gold is not tied to any one country, currency or economy, and in times of economic turmoil or geopolitical uncertainty, investors often flock to it — driving prices higher.

    Over the past 12 months, the price of the precious metal has surged about 40%.

    Ray Dalio, founder of the world’s largest hedge fund, Bridgewater Associates, has repeatedly emphasized gold’s importance in a resilient portfolio.

    “People don’t have, typically, an adequate amount of gold in their portfolio,” he told CNBC earlier this year. “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 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 precious metals for free.

    Read more: You don’t have to be a millionaire to gain access to this $1B private real estate fund. In fact, you can get started with as little as $10 — here’s how

    A time-tested income play

    Gold isn’t the only asset investors rely on to preserve their purchasing power. 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 can adjust 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 a limited housing supply.

    Of course, high home prices can make buying a home more challenging, especially as mortgage rates remain 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. 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 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

    Money doesn’t have to be complicated — sign up for the free Moneywise newsletter for actionable finance tips and news you can use. Join now.

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

  • Trump says Americans ‘have eggs for breakfast again’ — claims prices have come down a staggering 400%. But is his math all scrambled?

    Trump says Americans ‘have eggs for breakfast again’ — claims prices have come down a staggering 400%. But is his math all scrambled?

    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.

    High egg prices have surprised many Americans over the past few years — from viral TikToks showing $12 cartons to the question “Why are eggs so expensive?” climbing to the top of Google search trends. But according to President Donald Trump, the situation has taken a dramatic turn.

    “Remember eggs? We weren’t able to buy another egg for the next 20 years — they were so expensive, right?” Trump recently told reporters at the White House. “Eggs have come down 400%. Everybody has eggs now. They have eggs for breakfast again.”

    A clip of the speech has gone viral on social media, with users questioning the math behind Trump’s claim. After all, a 100% drop would mean prices fell to zero. A 400% drop would imply prices have turned negative — which clearly hasn’t happened.

    Don’t miss

    So, how much have egg prices actually dropped?

    According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Egg Markets Overview dated June 6, 2025, the national wholesale price for eggs is $2.63 per dozen. That’s down from $6.55 per dozen during the week ending Jan. 24, 2025 — a decline of roughly 60% since Trump’s inauguration. A sharp drop, no doubt, but a far cry from 400%.

    Of course, eggs are just one part of the grocery bill, and food prices remain a burden for many American households. The Food in U.S. City Average Consumer Price Index has climbed roughly 26% over the past five years, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

    In other words, while headline inflation has cooled since peaking at a 40-year high of 9.1% in June 2022, food prices remain stubbornly high. The USDA projects overall food prices will rise another 2.9% in 2025.

    The blunt reality is, inflation is still chipping away at Americans’ purchasing power. The good news? Throughout history, savvy investors have often found ways to shield themselves from inflation’s bite — regardless of who’s in the White House.

    A classic safe haven

    When it comes to preserving wealth and guarding against inflation, few assets have stood the test of time like gold.

    Its appeal is simple. Unlike fiat currency, the yellow metal can’t be printed at will by central banks.

    Gold is also considered a classic safe haven. It’s not tied to any one country, currency or economy, and in times of economic turmoil or geopolitical uncertainty, investors often flock to it — driving prices higher.

    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%.

    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, which combines the tax advantages of an IRA with the protective benefits of investing in gold, making it an attractive option for those looking to potentially hedge their retirement funds against economic uncertainties.

    To learn more, you can get a free information guide that includes details on how to get up to $10,000 in free silver on qualifying purchases.

    Read more: You don’t have to be a millionaire to gain access to this $1B private real estate fund. In fact, you can get started with as little as $10 — here’s how

    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.

    One way to invest in real estate is by purchasing rental properties and becoming a landlord. But for the average American who wants to avoid the need for a hefty down payment or the burden of property management, crowdfunding platforms like Arrived make it easier to slice yourself up a piece of that pie.

    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.

    A finer alternative

    It’s easy to see why great works of art tend to appreciate over time. Supply is limited and many famous pieces have already been snatched up by museums and collectors. Art also has a low correlation with stocks and bonds, which helps with diversification.

    In 2022, a collection of art owned by the late Microsoft Co-founder Paul Allen sold for $1.5 billion at Christie’s New York, making it the most valuable collection in auction history.

    Investing in art was traditionally a privilege reserved for the ultra-wealthy.

    Now, that’s changed with Masterworks — a platform for investing in shares of blue-chip artwork by renowned artists, including Pablo Picasso, Jean-Michel Basquiat and Banksy. It’s easy to use, and with 23 successful exits to date, every one of them has been profitable thus far.

    Simply browse their impressive portfolio of paintings and choose how many shares you’d like to buy. Masterworks will handle all the details, making high-end art investments both accessible and effortless.

    Masterworks has distributed roughly $61 million back to investors. New offerings have sold out in minutes, but you can skip their waitlist here.

    What to read next

    Money doesn’t have to be complicated — sign up for the free Moneywise newsletter for actionable finance tips and news you can use. Join now.

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

  • Real estate CEO warns of a growing ‘exodus’ from California — says residents are ‘fleeing’ as quality of life declines, business gets more difficult. So where are they escaping to?

    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 its beautiful weather, breathtaking coastlines and vibrant culture, California has always held a special allure. But according to Don Peebles — founder, chairman and CEO of real estate investment and development firm The Peebles Corporation — the Golden State’s appeal is rapidly fading as residents pack up and head for the exits.

    “California, and especially Southern California, is the most difficult place to do business in the United States,” he stated bluntly in a Fox Business interview. “We were trying to build a $1.6 billion development in downtown LA, and stuck with it during the COVID crisis, and yet we could get no support from the government.”

    Don’t miss

    Peebles didn’t mince words, arguing that the state’s policies “were hurting businesses.”

    He also pointed to the growing wave of people leaving California.

    “People are fleeing, they have given up, and they’re going to other places,” he said. “We’re going to see more of an exodus out of California, because the quality of life has diminished as well.”

    The California exodus by the numbers

    Talk of a California exodus gained momentum during the pandemic, and although the pace has slowed, the outflow of residents hasn’t stopped.

    According to the latest U.S. Census Bureau data on state-to-state migration flows, 690,127 people left California for another state in 2023 — following an even larger outflow of 817,669 residents the year before.

    Where did they go?

    Texas topped the list. In 2023, 93,970 Californians relocated to the Lone Star State. In fact, Texas has consistently been the most popular destination for those leaving California:

    • 107,546 Californians moved there in 2021
    • 102,442 more followed in 2022

    Arizona and Florida were also major draws, attracting 54,222 and 39,052 former Californians, respectively, during the most recent reporting period.

    Read more: You don’t have to be a millionaire to gain access to this $1B private real estate fund. In fact, you can get started with as little as $10 — here’s how

    Rising costs of living — and how to hedge against them

    There are many theories about why so many Californians are leaving. High taxes are often cited — for example, neither Texas nor Florida imposes a state income tax. But perhaps just as important is the sky-high cost of living.

    Housing costs alone are enough to make headlines. According to data from real estate brokerage Redfin, the median home price in California currently stands at $859,700 — nearly twice the national median of $440,892.

    A recent Bankrate study found that a household in California needs an annual income of $213,447 to afford a typical home in the state.

    Yet real estate remains a popular investment choice for those looking to hedge against rising living costs. When inflation goes up, property values often climb as well, reflecting the higher costs of materials, labor and land.

    At the same time, rental income tends to rise, providing landlords with a revenue stream that adjusts with inflation.

    Over the past five years, the S&P CoreLogic Case-Shiller U.S. National Home Price NSA Index has surged more than 50%.

    These days, you don’t need to buy an entire property outright to benefit from real estate investing. Crowdfunding platforms like Arrived have made it easier than ever for everyday investors to gain 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 positive rental income distributions from your investment.

    For accredited investors, Homeshares gives access to the $35 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 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

    Money doesn’t have to be complicated — sign up for the free Moneywise newsletter for actionable finance tips and news you can use. Join now.

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

  • HR exec at center of Coldplay concert scandal reportedly married into Boston’s ultra-rich Cabot family — locals say ‘Cabots speak only to God.’ How to build generational wealth in America

    HR exec at center of Coldplay concert scandal reportedly married into Boston’s ultra-rich Cabot family — locals say ‘Cabots speak only to God.’ How to build generational wealth in America

    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.

    A short video clip from a Coldplay concert has sparked waves far beyond the entertainment world. In the now-viral footage, Andy Byron — then-CEO of the tech firm Astronomer — is seen with his arms around Chief People Officer Kristin Cabot as they cuddle in the crowd.

    Byron ducked out of sight as the couple appeared on the big screen. Cabot turned away and covered her face.

    “Either they’re having an affair or they’re just very shy,” Coldplay frontman Chris Martin quipped to the audience. Days later, Byron resigned.

    As for Cabot, the Daily Mail reports she’s married to another CEO: Andrew Cabot, head of Massachusetts-based distillery Privateer Rum. The publication says Kristin’s now-deactivated LinkedIn page showed that she has been an “advisory board member” of Privateer Rum since September 2020.

    Property records show that Kristin and Andrew Cabot purchased a $2.2 million home in Rye, New Hampshire, back in February, and the deed refers to them as “husband and wife,” according to the Daily Mail.

    Don’t miss

    Andrew Cabot, according to Privateer Rum’s website, is a direct descendant of the original Andrew Cabot — a wealthy merchant and privateer from the Revolutionary War era. The Cabot name carries weight in Boston: they’re part of the city’s storied “Brahmin” class — families that once ruled New England society. As the New York Post put it, the Cabots belonged to a club of families so distinguished “that the Irish-Catholic Kennedys are left out in the cold.”

    The Cabot family is so prominent in Boston that, according to the Post, a local saying goes, the “Cabots speak only to God.”

    Their wealth spans generations. A 1972 New York Times profile pegged the Cabot family fortune at over $200 million at the time — equivalent to roughly $1.5 billion in 2025.

    While most Americans don’t come from a family like the Cabots, building generational wealth isn’t necessarily out of reach. With the right tools — and access to platforms once limited to the ultra-rich — it’s possible to lay your own foundation for long-term prosperity.

    Become a real estate mogul — starting with $100

    For families like the Cabots, real estate has long served as both a symbol of status and a source of enduring wealth. That’s no coincidence. Real estate can offer multiple pathways to build and preserve wealth across generations.

    Owning property can generate passive income through rent and offer appreciation potential — especially in high-demand markets. It’s also a classic hedge against inflation: when the cost of materials, labor and land goes up, property values often rise as well. Meanwhile, rental income typically climbs too, creating a revenue stream that can adjust with inflation.

    These days, you don’t need to buy an entire property outright to benefit from real estate investing. Crowdfunding platforms like Arrived have made it easier than ever for everyday investors to gain 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.

    For accredited investors, Homeshares gives access to the $35 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 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: You don’t have to be a millionaire to gain access to this $1B private real estate fund. In fact, you can get started with as little as $10 — here’s how

    ‘The best thing to do,’ according to Warren Buffett

    While real estate has shaped many old-money empires, the U.S. stock market has quietly built countless modern fortunes.

    The reason is simple: long-term exposure to the growth of American business. As investing legend Warren Buffett wrote in his 2016 letter to Berkshire Hathaway shareholders, “American business — and consequently a basket of stocks — is virtually certain to be worth far more in the years ahead.”

    Berkshire’s performance serves as a powerful testament to that principle. From 1964 to 2024, it delivered an astonishing overall gain of 5,502,284%.

    Buffett has long championed investing in companies with durable competitive advantages — businesses with unique strengths that allow them to outperform rivals over the long term. But for the average investor, he says there’s no need to pick winners.

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

    The beauty of this approach is its accessibility — anyone, regardless of wealth, can take advantage of it. And with Wealthfront Invest, you can put your investing on autopilot. Their easy "set it and forget it" approach means your money is professionally managed and automatically rebalanced, allowing your wealth to grow steadily over time.

    The platform can build a personalized portfolio of low-cost index funds from up to 17 global asset classes. Depending on your risk profile, your money can buy shares of VOO, Vanguard’s ETF which tracks the S&P 500.

    Plus, you can get a $50 bonus if you fund a taxable investment account today.

    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. 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

    Money doesn’t have to be complicated — sign up for the free Moneywise newsletter for actionable finance tips and news you can use. Join now.

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

  • Robert Kiyosaki warns of ‘massive unemployment’ in the US due to the ‘biggest change’ in history — and says this 1 group of ‘smart’ Americans will get hit extra hard. Are you one of them?

    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.

    Rich Dad Poor Dad author Robert Kiyosaki has a sobering take on one of today’s hottest trends: artificial intelligence (AI).

    “BIGGEST CHANGE in MODERN HISTORY,” he declared in an X post on July 1. “AI will cause many ‘smart students’ to lose their jobs. AI will cause massive unemployment. Many still have student loan debt.”

    Don’t miss

    Kiyosaki isn’t alone in sounding the alarm. Dario Amodei, CEO of Anthropic — the AI company behind the large language model Claude — recently warned that AI could wipe out half of all entry-level white-collar jobs and push the unemployment rate as high as 20%.

    But Kiyosaki isn’t worried about himself, quipping, “AI cannot fire me because I do not have a job.”

    He went on to describe his own philosophy, recalling the contrasting advice he received from his poor dad and his rich dad.

    “Years ago, rather than listen to my poor dad’s advice of ‘Go to school, get good grades, get a job, pay taxes, get out of debt, save money, and invest in a well diversified portfolio of stocks, bonds, and mutual funds,’ I followed my rich dad’s advice. I became an entrepreneur, investing in real estate, using debt, and instead of saving fake money, I have been saving real gold, silver, and today Bitcoin,” he wrote.

    Let’s take a closer look at these suggestions.

    From earned income to passive income

    Kiyosaki’s story about rejecting his poor dad’s advice and following his rich dad’s instead highlights a simple choice: Rather than getting a traditional job, he became an entrepreneur and started investing in real estate — an asset known for generating passive income.

    Once you build a reliable stream of passive income, you can worry less about AI replacing your job because you no longer rely solely on a paycheck.

    Kiyosaki has frequently emphasized the importance of this approach. “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 in an X post on May 19.

    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.

    Perhaps that’s why Kiyosaki once disclosed he owns 15,000 houses during an interview with personal finance YouTuber Sharan Hegde — 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 Arrived have made it easier than ever for everyday investors to gain 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 positive rental income distributions from your investment.

    Turning to precious metals

    Kiyosaki didn’t mince words about his disdain for fiat currency, stating that he saves in “real gold and silver” instead of what he calls “fake money.”

    That’s no surprise — the famed author has been advocating for precious metals for decades.

    In October 2023, he predicted 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.”

    Prices surged in 2024 and have continued to climb through 2025, recently surpassing $3,300 per ounce.

    Gold has long been viewed as a 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.

    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, which combines 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: You don’t have to be a millionaire to gain access to this $1B private real estate fund. In fact, you can get started with as little as $10 — here’s how

    Bitcoin

    Kiyosaki said he also saves in Bitcoin — no surprise, given that he has long been a vocal supporter of the world’s largest cryptocurrency.

    He recently described Bitcoin as “people’s money” and predicted it could soar to “$500K 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, regulated cryptocurrency exchange and custodian, which allows users to buy, sell and store bitcoin and 70 other cryptocurrencies.

    You can snag $15 in free bitcoin with code GEMINI15 when you trade $100 or more as a new user.

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

    Are you spending more than you need to?

    While building passive income streams can help you prepare for the “biggest change” Kiyosaki warns about, it’s just as crucial to understand where your money goes each month. Try tracking all your expenses for 30 days, then sort them into two categories: necessities — like rent, groceries, utilities and health care — and discretionary spending, such as dining out, entertainment, shopping and hobbies.

    This breakdown gives you a clear picture of your spending habits and helps identify areas where you can cut back. But trimming waste isn’t just about skipping lattes or takeout.

    Even in essential categories, you may be spending more than you need to. The good news? With a bit of research, those costs can often be significantly reduced.

    For instance, car insurance is a major recurring expense, and many people overpay without realizing it. According to Forbes, the average cost of full-coverage car insurance is $2,149 per year (or $179 per month).

    However, rates can vary widely depending on your state, driving history and vehicle type, and you could be paying more than necessary.

    By using OfficialCarInsurance.com, you can easily compare quotes from multiple insurers, such as Progressive, Allstate and GEICO, to ensure you’re getting the best deal.

    In just two minutes, you could find rates as low as $29 per month.

    What to read next

    Money doesn’t have to be complicated — sign up for the free Moneywise newsletter for actionable finance tips and news you can use. Join now.

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

  • Robert Kiyosaki warns of a ‘Greater Depression’ coming to the US — with millions of Americans going poor. But he says these 2 ‘easy-money’ assets will bring in great wealth. How to get in now

    Robert Kiyosaki warns of a ‘Greater Depression’ coming to the US — with millions of Americans going poor. But he says these 2 ‘easy-money’ assets will bring in great wealth. How to get in 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.

    In light of President Donald Trump’s sweeping tariffs and the uncertainty surrounding them, many experts are warning that America may be headed for a recession. But according to Rich Dad Poor Dad author Robert Kiyosaki, something far worse is looming.

    “In 2025 credit card debt is at all time highs. U.S. debt is at all time highs. Unemployment is rising. 401(k)’s are losing,” he wrote in an X post on April 18. “U.S.A. may be heading for a GREATER DEPRESSION.”

    According to the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, Americans now owe a record $1.21 trillion on their credit cards. The U.S. National debt has climbed to $36.22 trillion. Meanwhile, the unemployment rate ticked up to 4.2% in March, and retirees are watching their 401(k)s shrink amid ongoing market volatility.

    Don’t miss

    The Great Depression of the 1930s was the worst economic crisis in modern history — marked by mass unemployment, widespread poverty and a collapse in consumer and business confidence. But by calling the next downturn a “Greater Depression,” Kiyosaki suggests it could be even more devastating.

    As he put it, “This coming Great Depression will cause millions to be poor … and a few who take action, may enjoy great wealth and freedom.”

    So, what kind of action is he recommending?

    “For those who take action today, when the crash crashes, those who invest in just one Bitcoin, or some gold, or silver … You may come through this crisis a very rich person,” Kiyosaki wrote.

    That advice should come as no surprise — Kiyosaki has long been a vocal proponent of these alternative assets, which he backed by making a bold prediction.

    “I strongly believe, by 2035, that one Bitcoin will be over $1 million. Gold will be $30K and silver $3,000 a coin,” he wrote.

    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.

    Back 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, now trading around $3,300 per ounce.

    Gold has long been viewed as a safe haven. It’s not tied to any one 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.

    Ray Dalio, founder 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 Priority Gold.

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

    To learn more, you can get a free information guide that includes details on how to get up to $10,000 in free silver on qualifying purchases.

    Read more: You don’t have to be a millionaire to gain access to this $1B private real estate fund. In fact, you can get started with as little as $10 — here’s how

    Real estate — revisited

    “Your house is not an asset” Kiyosaki once said during an interview with finance YouTuber Sharan Hegde in September 2023. “What is the definition of the word? If it puts money in my pocket, it’s an asset. If my house is taking money from my pocket, it’s a liability.”

    His point being that owning the home you live in often takes money out of your pocket in the form of mortgage payments, utilities, taxes and maintenance costs. Rental properties, however, are a different story.

    According to the Rich Dad website, rental properties can generate significant, regular cash flow when purchased and managed wisely. Additionally, increases in rents and property values over time can create “an important supplementary revenue stream.” While all investments carry some risk, cash-flowing properties are “generally less subject to the daily ups and downs” of the market.

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

    With Arrived, you can 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 rental income deposits from your investment.

    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.

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

    Although Bitcoin has since dipped below $100,000, Kiyosaki’s long-term forecast remains ambitious: $1 million per coin by 2035.

    He’s not alone in that view. Twitter co-founder Jack Dorsey said in an interview with Pirate Wires published 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 stores bitcoin and 70 other cryptocurrencies.

    You can place instant, recurring and limit buys on our 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

    Money doesn’t have to be complicated — sign up for the free Moneywise newsletter for actionable finance tips and news you can use. Join now.

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

  • Elon Musk endorsed Warren Buffett’s ‘5-minute’ fix for America’s multi-trillion debt problem — and 1 senator is drafting constitutional change to make it real. Do you think it’ll work?

    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.

    The U.S. government has been running budget deficits for years — consistently spending more than it collects. And while neither party has managed to rein in the red ink, legendary investor Warren Buffett once offered a surprisingly simple fix.

    "I could end the deficit in five minutes,” Buffett told CNBC’s Becky Quick in a 2011 interview. “You just pass a law that says that any time there’s a deficit of more than 3% of GDP, all sitting members of Congress are ineligible for re-election.”

    Now, that old clip is going viral again — and it’s gaining fresh support in high places.

    Don’t miss

    Utah Senator Mike Lee reposted the video on X, asking the public, “Would you support this amendment?”

    The question sparked a wave of responses, including one from Tesla CEO and X owner Elon Musk, who replied: “100%. This is the way.”

    But Lee isn’t just crowdsourcing opinions — he’s trying to turn the idea into a reality.

    “I’m drafting a constitutional amendment to oust every member of Congress whenever inflation exceeds 3%. It’s better to disqualify politicians than for an entire nation to suffer under the yoke of inflation,” he wrote on X.

    A bold fix — but the numbers don’t look good for lawmakers

    While Lee referenced both inflation and deficits, the logic echoes Buffett’s frustration: tying lawmakers’ job security to the nation’s fiscal health.

    Economists have long noted a connection between excessive government spending and inflation. The late Nobel Prize–winning economist Milton Friedman once famously said, “What produces [inflation] is too much government spending and too much government creation of money and nothing else,” adding, “Only Washington can create money.”

    But enshrining that accountability into law — especially one that threatens every member of Congress with job loss — is a heavy lift.

    Buffett’s threshold was a deficit of more than 3% of GDP. In fiscal 2024, the U.S. economy generated $28.83 trillion in GDP, while the federal government spent $6.75 trillion and collected $4.92 trillion in revenue. That left a $1.83 trillion deficit — or 6.3% of GDP.

    By Buffett’s rule, every sitting member of Congress would be out — and many X users were quick to point that out.

    “The only problem is that the people we are suggesting be fired are the ones who get to vote on that. And they’re never going to vote for their own cancellation,” X user Lorrie Ann wrote. “This is why we need term limits and why they won’t even entertain the idea!”

    While the odds of implementing Buffett’s fix to solve America’s deficit problem are slim, there are plenty of tactics you can use to improve your own fiscal health — and in this case, your vote is the only one that counts.

    Here are a few ways to avoid running a deficit — and start building a personal surplus — in 2025 and beyond.

    Cutting waste from your spending

    If you want to improve your finances, the first step is understanding where your money goes each month. Track all your expenses for 30 days, then sort them into two categories: necessities — like rent, groceries, utilities and health care — and discretionary spending, such as dining out, entertainment, shopping and hobbies.

    This breakdown gives you a clear picture of your spending habits and helps identify areas where you can cut back. But trimming waste isn’t just about skipping lattes or takeout.

    Even in essential categories, you may be spending more than you need to. The good news? With a bit of research, those costs can often be significantly reduced.

    For instance, car insurance is a major recurring expense, and many people overpay without realizing it. According to Forbes, the average cost of full-coverage car insurance is $2,149 per year (or $179 per month).

    However, rates can vary widely depending on your state, driving history and vehicle type, and you could be paying more than necessary.

    By using OfficialCarInsurance.com, you can easily compare quotes from multiple insurers, such as Progressive, Allstate and GEICO, to ensure you’re getting the best deal.

    In just two minutes, you could find rates as low as $29 per month.

    Meanwhile, home insurance is another major expense where smart shoppers can save big.

    With OfficialHomeInsurance, comparing home insurance rates is fast and hassle-free. Just enter a few basic details and the platform will instantly sort through over 200 insurers to find you the best deals available in your area.

    You’ll be able to review all your offers in one place, and quickly find the coverage you need for the lowest possible cost, saving an average of $482 a year.

    Read more: You don’t have to be a millionaire to gain access to this $1B private real estate fund. In fact, you can get started with as little as $10 — here’s how

    Create a steady passive income stream

    Trimming expenses is one way to create a surplus — but boosting income can be just as powerful. And while asking for a raise doesn’t always lead to results, there are ways to earn money without clocking in extra hours. That’s where passive income comes in: money that keeps flowing with minimal day-to-day effort.

    One of the most popular ways to tap into passive income potential is through real estate.

    When you own a rental property, tenants pay you rent each month — providing a steady stream of cash flow. It’s also a time-tested hedge against inflation, since both property values and rental income tend to rise along with the cost of living.

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

    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 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

    Money doesn’t have to be complicated — sign up for the free Moneywise newsletter for actionable finance tips and news you can use. Join now.

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

  • Over 30 million American homes don’t have a mortgage right now, report says — and that’s 1 big red flag for the US housing market. Do you own your home free and clear?

    Over 30 million American homes don’t have a mortgage right now, report says — and that’s 1 big red flag for the US housing market. Do you own your home free and clear?

    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.

    Housing affordability has become a pressing issue in America — with studies suggesting that buyers now need a six-figure salary to comfortably cover the mortgage on a typical home. Yet millions of Americans already own their homes outright.

    According to Fortune, citing a recently published Goldman Sachs note, the share of U.S. homeowners without a mortgage rose from 33% in 2010 to 40% in 2023. Assuming there are 86 million homes nationwide, the outlet estimates more than 30 million are now owned free and clear.

    As more Americans pay off their homes, equity continues to build. ICE Mortgage Technology estimated that heading into the second quarter of 2025 U.S. mortgage borrowers held $11.5 trillion in “tappable” home equity — or equity available for borrowing while maintaining at least a 20% cushion.

    Don’t miss

    While it’s possible to access that equity through loans or lines of credit, Goldman Sachs notes that homeowners today are far less eager to tap into it than they were in the early 2000s.

    “Rather, borrowers have focused on paying down their mortgages and owning their homes outright,” said Goldman Sachs analyst Arun Manohar, per Fortune.

    A major driver of this growing equity is the sharp increase in home values. Over the past five years, the S&P CoreLogic Case-Shiller U.S. National Home Price NSA Index has climbed more than 50%.

    That may be good news for existing homeowners — but for first-time buyers, the picture is far more challenging, especially with mortgage rates still elevated.

    According to the National Association of Realtors, the share of first-time home buyers in the U.S. fell to just 24% in 2024 — a record low — down from 32% a year prior.

    Fortune called the situation both “a warning sign” and a “chicken-and-egg” dilemma — noting that many older homeowners who bought their properties decades ago aren’t downsizing, largely due to fears of today’s higher mortgage rates. With that inventory staying off the market, supply remains tight and prices stay elevated — making it even harder for younger generations to break into homeownership.

    Getting on the real estate ladder

    So, just how difficult is it to buy a home in America today?

    According to Realtor.com, a typical household would need to earn $118,530 annually to afford a median-priced home of $402,500 in the U.S. — more than 50% higher than the current median household income of about $77,700. In pricier states like California, the income requirement can soar even higher: a household would need to earn a whopping $210,557 a year to afford a typical home in the Golden State.

    Still, real estate remains a popular path to building wealth.

    For one, it’s a classic hedge against inflation. As inflation rises, home values tend to increase as well, reflecting higher costs for materials, labor and land. Rental income often follows suit, providing landlords with a stream of income that can adjust with inflation.

    Second, while real estate moves in cycles, it doesn’t require a booming market to deliver returns. Even in a downturn, high-quality, essential properties can continue to generate passive income through rent. In other words, the asset can work for you — regardless of broader market conditions.

    The best part? You don’t need to buy a property outright to invest in real estate.

    Read more: You don’t have to be a millionaire to gain access to this $1B private real estate fund. In fact, you can get started with as little as $10 — here’s how

    Become a real estate mogul — starting with $100

    Crowdfunding platforms like Arrived have made it easier than ever for everyday investors to gain exposure to America’s real estate market.

    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.

    Tap into the multitrillion-dollar home equity market.

    Americans have built substantial wealth through homeownership, but the $35 trillion U.S. home equity market has historically been the exclusive playground of large institutions.

    Homeshares is changing the game by allowing accredited investors to 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.

    Be the landlord of Walmart

    If you’ve ever been a landlord, you know how important it is to have reliable tenants.

    How do grocery stores sound?

    That’s where First National Realty Partners (FNRP) comes in. The platform 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.

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