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Author: Jing Pan

  • Peter Schiff says gold hit a ‘monumental moment’ after soaring to $3,000/ounce — claims now is the ‘perfect time’ to buy despite ‘media silence.’ Are you prepped for more shocks ahead?

    Peter Schiff says gold hit a ‘monumental moment’ after soaring to $3,000/ounce — claims now is the ‘perfect time’ to buy despite ‘media silence.’ Are you prepped for more shocks ahead?

    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.

    Investors may be feeling uneasy as stocks struggle amid ongoing trade tensions and tariffs. But according to economist Peter Schiff, one asset is standing out amid the uncertainty: gold.

    “Today marks a monumental moment in gold history as the spot price closes above $3,000 an ounce. Despite the media’s silence, this development is significant,” Schiff wrote on Instagram on March 17.

    Despite gold’s 40% surge over the past year, Schiff believes the rally is just getting started.

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    “While central banks stockpile gold, retail investors have a unique opportunity to capitalize. With gold expected to rise to $4,000 and beyond, now is the perfect time to invest,” he wrote.

    In 2024, central banks added 1,045 tonnes to global reserves, marking the third consecutive year of net purchases exceeding 1,000 tonnes, according to the World Gold Council.

    For Schiff, central bank buying isn’t just about portfolio diversification — it’s a warning sign.

    ‘Dumping dollars to buy gold’

    Many investors turn to gold as a hedge against inflation, since — unlike fiat currencies — it can’t be printed at will by central banks.

    Schiff argues that central banks’ growing appetite for gold signals something deeper.

    “Investors haven’t even woken up to what central banks are doing, but the central bankers are the insiders of the fiat monetary system,” he said. “The insiders in the fiat monetary system have been dumping their dollars to buy gold. They obviously know something, and the public hasn’t caught on yet.”

    So, what do they know that retail investors don’t?

    Schiff believes it’s simple: inflation isn’t going away.

    “Investors haven’t woken up to the reality of high inflation, as far as the eye can see, they still believe that the Fed is going to be able to bring inflation back down to 2% — there’s no chance that’s going to happen,” he stated. “Inflation isn’t going anywhere near that. In fact, it’s already bottomed out and is headed much higher — none of that has really been priced into gold yet.”

    So, just how high can gold prices go?

    “If gold can go from $20 an ounce to $2,600 an ounce, it can go from $2,600 to $26,000, or even to $100,000. There’s no limit because, again, gold isn’t changing — it’s the value of the dollar that’s decreasing,” he said in October 2024.

    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

    1 income-producing alternative

    Gold has long been a go-to hedge against inflation. But it’s not the only option. Real estate has also served as a reliable store of value, with the added benefit of generating income.

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

    Over the past decade, the S&P CoreLogic Case-Shiller U.S. National Home Price NSA Index has climbed by 94%.

    These days, you don’t need to purchase a property outright to invest in real estate. First National Realty Partners (FNRP), for instance, 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.

    New investing platforms are also making it easier than ever to tap into the residential real estate market.

    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 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 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.

    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.

  • Arnold Schwarzenegger blasts California politicians for housing crisis — says citizens are ‘economically homeless’ and often share apartments with 10 others. Is the ex-governor right?

    Arnold Schwarzenegger blasts California politicians for housing crisis — says citizens are ‘economically homeless’ and often share apartments with 10 others. Is the ex-governor right?

    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.

    Former California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger isn’t mincing words about the state’s escalating housing crisis.

    In a recent appearance on comedian Theo Von’s This Past Weekend podcast, Schwarzenegger recalled that when he first arrived in California, the state’s population was around 20 million. Since then, it has roughly doubled — a surge that, he argued, demanded a proportional increase in housing.

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    “When you go from 20 to 40 million people, then you need twice as many houses, you need twice as many apartment buildings, you need twice as much of everything, schools and everything,” Schwarzenegger said.

    “They didn’t take care of them because the environmentalists thought that if we say, ‘no growth,’ then no one will come. But in the meantime, no one gives a sh-t about that — they come anyway. Then somehow they live three people in one apartment, or five people in one apartment, workers — they sometimes live 10 people in one apartment.”

    He explained that with limited housing supply, prices inevitably skyrocketed.

    “The unit that used to cost $600 now costs $3,000 a month. But the salaries, the wages didn’t go up accordingly. So now you have people that are economically homeless — they cannot afford paying for their rent anymore, so this is created by the politicians,” he said.

    Hedging against the soaring cost of living

    California stands out for its steep housing costs. According to real estate brokerage Redfin, the average monthly rent in the state is $2,481 — substantially higher than the U.S. median of $1,642.

    The gap is even wider for homebuyers. Redfin data show California’s median home price is $858,600, nearly double the national median of $440,910.

    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.

    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 golden alternative

    Real estate isn’t the only asset investors turn to during times of inflation. Gold has helped people preserve their purchasing power for thousands of years.

    Today, the yellow metal is as relevant as ever for a simple reason: Unlike fiat currency, it can’t be printed in unlimited quantities by central banks.

    Gold has also long been viewed as a safe-haven investment. It’s not tied to any one country, currency or economy, and investors tend to pile in during times of economic turmoil or geopolitical uncertainty — driving up its value.

    In just the last 12 months, the price of gold has surged by 40%.

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

    “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.”

    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.

    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.

  • Rice prices have skyrocketed in this G7 nation — and citizens are lining up to buy government stockpiles, ration sales. Local farmer warns ‘everyone who eats’ that disaster could be near

    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 today’s developed economies, lining up to buy a staple grain may seem like a thing of the past. But in Japan, it’s become a stark reality as a rice shortage sends prices soaring.

    A 5 kilogram (11 pound) bag of rice cost 4,280 yen ($29) in May 2025 — double the price from a year earlier, according to Bloomberg.

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    The surge stems from a supply crunch dating back to 2023, when a severe heat wave hit Japan’s rice harvest. The extreme temperatures not only lowered the quality of the crop but also caused a sharp decline in overall production.

    In response, the government has begun releasing rice from its stockpiles. Long lines now form hours before stores open to buy stockpiled rice, with The Japan Times reporting some customers start queuing as early as 8 p.m. the night before.

    According to Nikkei Asia, shelves in Tokyo have been “frequently empty” as of early July, with supermarkets rationing sales to one bag of rice per family per day.

    Nobuhiko Kurosawa, a rice farmer in Yamagata, is worried about what could happen next.

    “The Japanese government has already released most of its rice reserves, so if this summer turns out to be as hot as the year before last, it could be disastrous,” he told Nikkei Asia. “If we have no reserves left and the quality of the rice has deteriorated due to the extreme heat, Japan may have to import a considerable amount. The food problem is not [just] a problem for farmers, but a problem for everyone who eats.”

    While Japan’s rice crisis is especially severe, it’s also part of a broader trend: Food prices around the world have been steadily climbing. From staples like grains and cooking oil to fresh produce and meat, inflation has put pressure on household budgets everywhere — not just in Japan.

    In the U.S., the Consumer Price Index has increased 25% over the last five years, with the food index surging 26%. The U.S. Department of Agriculture expects food prices to rise another 2.9% in 2025.

    But there are steps consumers and investors can consider to help protect their purchasing power as the cost of living rises.

    Real estate

    Real estate has long been considered a reliable hedge against inflation, thanks to its intrinsic value and income-generating potential.

    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.

    Legendary investor Warren Buffett has often 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 rent money.

    Traditionally, investing in real estate meant buying property and becoming a landlord. New investing platforms are making it easier than ever to tap into the real estate market.

    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.

    If you’re not an accredited investor, crowdfunding platforms like Arrived allow you to enter the real estate market for as little as $100.

    Arrived offers you access to shares of SEC-qualified investments in rental homes and vacation rentals, curated and vetted for their appreciation and income potential.

    Backed by world-class investors like Jeff Bezos, Arrived makes it easy to fit these properties into your investment portfolio regardless of your income level. Their flexible investment amounts and simplified process allows accredited and non-accredited investors to take advantage of this inflation-hedging asset class without any extra work on your part.

    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

    Gold

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

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

    Gold is also considered the ultimate 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.

    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 earlier this year. “When bad times come, gold is a very effective diversifier.”

    In just the last 12 months, the price of gold has surged by 39%.

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

    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.

    With a minimum purchase of $10,000, Goldco offers free shipping and access to a library of retirement resources. Plus, the company will match up to 10% of qualified purchases in free silver.

    If you’re curious whether this is the right investment to diversify your portfolio, you can download your free gold and silver information guide today.

    Farmland

    The steady rise in food prices serves as a powerful reminder: No matter what happens in the economy, people still need to eat.

    That’s why farmland is considered a natural hedge against inflation. As food prices climb, so does the value of the land that produces it. At the same time, farmland is a tangible, income-generating asset that isn’t directly tied to the ups and downs of financial markets.

    According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, 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 cash income. Then, years down the line after the farm rises in value, you can benefit from the land appreciating 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.

  • Here are the 10 most accident-prone vehicles in America — and why certain cars crash more than others. Do you drive one of them?

    Here are the 10 most accident-prone vehicles in America — and why certain cars crash more than others. Do you drive 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.

    When it comes to collisions, not all vehicles are created equal.

    A new report from Insurify reveals the top car models with the highest accident rates in the U.S.

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    Topping the list is the Kia Soul EV, with an accident rate of 15.14% in 2024.

    Coming in next are the Mazda Mazdaspeed 3 (12.57%), Chevrolet Bolt EUV (11.75%), Jeep Wrangler Unlimited (11.74%) and Volkswagen ID.4 (11.68%).

    Rounding out the top 10 are the Jeep Wrangler/YJ (11.64%), Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid (11.44%), Chevrolet Bolt EV (11.40%), RAM 2500 (11.21%) and Chrysler Voyager (11.21%).

    At first glance, it might be tempting to conclude that certain manufacturers produce more accident-prone vehicles. After all, four of the top 10 models — two Jeeps, one RAM and one Chrysler — are made by Stellantis North America (formerly Chrysler).

    But that pattern doesn’t tell the whole story.

    Another Stellantis brand, Dodge, had the second-lowest average accident rate among all manufacturers in 2024, at just 6.82% — suggesting that brand alone isn’t a clear predictor of crash risk.

    Why some cars get into more accidents than others

    The Insurify report doesn’t offer specific reasons why certain vehicles have higher accident rates, but there are several well-known factors that could contribute.

    For example, the type of vehicle matters. According to National Highway Traffic Safety Administration data cited in the report, light trucks — a category that includes vans, SUVs and pickups — accounted for 43.2% of crashes in 2022, while passenger cars were involved in 38.1%.

    Other contributing factors could include vehicle design and size, the presence of modern safety features and driver demographics and habits.

    Some newer vehicles come equipped with advanced safety systems — like automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning — which can help avoid collisions. But at the same time, the abundance of high-tech features, such as large infotainment screens, might also increase distraction behind the wheel.

    Electric vehicles (EVs) made a strong showing near the top of the accident-rate rankings. In addition to the Kia Soul EV, both the Chevrolet Bolt EUV and Bolt EV, as well as the Volkswagen ID.4, made the top 10.

    Marcus Lu at Visual Capitalist suggests one possible explanation: instant torque.

    “A likely reason for [the high number of EVs on the accident-prone list] could be the way electric motors deliver instant torque, which may surprise drivers who are used to the more gradual power curve of gasoline engines,” he wrote in an analysis of Insurify’s report.

    Lu also cited a 2024 study from the University of Limerick showing that EVs are 4% more likely to be involved in an at-fault insurance claim compared to internal combustion engine vehicles.

    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

    Why accident data matters for your insurance rate

    Cars with higher accident rates often cost more to insure — not necessarily because the car itself is more dangerous, but because insurers look at risk data when setting premiums.

    But the make and model are just part of the equation. Your location, age and driving history all factor into your car insurance cost.

    According to Insurify, Massachusetts had the highest accident rate of any U.S. state in 2024, at 6.07%, while Michigan had the lowest, at 1.68%.

    Age also plays a major role. Generation Z drivers had the highest accident rate in 2024, at 6.84%, while baby boomers had the lowest, at 3.12% — which helps explain why younger drivers face steeper insurance premiums.

    How to lower your insurance bill

    Car insurance rates have been on the rise, 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 vary widely based on a range of factors — including many mentioned above — 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.

    And it’s not just your car that might be costing you more than it should. 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.

    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.

  • MTG just unveiled a bill to eliminate this 1 ‘unfair’ tax on US homeowners — calls the proposal a ‘gift for the American people.’ And Trump has responded. Do you like the idea?

    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.

    When you sell your home and make a sizable profit, you’re likely required to pay capital gains tax. But U.S. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA) is aiming to change that.

    Greene recently introduced the “No Tax on Home Sales Act,” a bill that would eliminate federal capital gains tax on the sale of primary residences.

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    “Families who work hard, build equity, and sell their homes should not be punished with massive tax bills,” Greene said in a recent press release. “The capital gains tax on home sales is an outdated, unfair burden — especially in today’s housing market, where values have skyrocketed. My bill fixes that.”

    Currently, if you sell your primary home with a capital gain, the IRS allows you to exclude up to $250,000 ($500,000 for joint filers) from your taxable income. But that exclusion was set back in 1997 — when home prices were substantially lower.

    A recent analysis by the National Association of Realtors estimates that about one in three homeowners — roughly 29 million households — have accumulated more equity than the federal capital gains tax exclusion allows for single filers.

    Greene told Realtor.com she believes the bill would be “a great gift for the American people.”

    Although the proposal is still in its early stages, it has already caught the attention of U.S. President Donald Trump.

    “We’re looking at that,” Trump recently told reporters at Joint Base Andrews. “It could be a very big positive. I think it’s going to be a great incentive for a lot of people that really need money.”

    America’s housing crisis

    Soaring home prices in recent years have made it substantially harder for prospective buyers to get a foot on the ladder.

    In just the last five years, the S&P CoreLogic Case-Shiller U.S. National Home Price NSA Index has climbed by more than 50%. And a recent Bankrate study found that to afford a typical home in the U.S., a household would now need an annual income exceeding $116,000.

    Many experts say a lack of supply is the root cause. Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell highlighted this last year at a press conference, remarking, “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?”

    A recent Zillow study indicates a shortfall of 4.7 million homes in America’s housing supply.

    But Greene believes her bill could help “boost” the nation’s housing supply by removing the capital gains tax obstacle that might discourage homeowners from selling, according to a recent post on X.

    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

    Getting on the real estate ladder — starting with $100

    At the end of the day, the rise in home prices also reflects the steady march of inflation over time. When inflation goes up, property values often climb as well, reflecting the higher costs of materials, labor and land. Meanwhile, rental income tends to rise, providing landlords with a revenue stream that adjusts with inflation.

    That’s why real estate has long been considered a go-to investment for those looking to hedge against inflation.

    While purchasing an entire home can seem out of reach with today’s hefty down payments and high mortgage rates, it’s now easier than ever to start investing in real estate thanks to crowdfunding platforms like Arrived.

    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.

  • Jim Rogers sold all of his US stock holdings because he’s ‘seen this party’ before — warns Americans to be ‘very careful’ at this rare time in history. Here’s how to shockproof your money

    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.

    Despite its ups and downs, the U.S. stock market has long been a go-to destination for investors, with the benchmark S&P 500 delivering a return of more than 90% over the past five years. Yet investing legend Jim Rogers isn’t feeling optimistic — far from it.

    “I sold all my U.S. stocks recently, because I’ve seen this party before,” he said in a recent interview with Wealthion. “You see a lot of new people talking about how much fun it is, how easy it is … I hope it stays easy to make money for lots of people for the rest of history — [but it] never has.”

    Don’t miss

    Rogers pointed out that more and more investors are becoming “exuberant and confident,” and he believes that kind of sentiment often leads to trouble.

    One problem he highlighted is the sheer size of America’s debt.

    “The U.S. is the largest debtor nation in the history of the world. And I sit and look at the numbers, and I say, can’t they read in Washington? Don’t they know what’s happening?” he said.

    According to Treasury Department data, the U.S. national debt now stands at $36.58 trillion.

    Rogers also warned that this time, even the Federal Reserve “doesn’t have unlimited amounts of money that can save us all,” adding that the central bank “usually makes things worse.”

    His suggestion? Tread carefully.

    “My advice is, be very, very careful wherever you think about investing. This is a rare time in investing history,” he stated.

    If you share these concerns, here’s a look at a few strategies to help protect yourself.

    A classic safe haven

    Rogers finds refuge in precious metals.

    “I own a lot of gold and silver,” he admitted. “I am not a seller of gold and silver. I hope that someday my children have all the gold and silver, because I don’t see any reason for any human being to sell gold and silver in the 21st century.”

    Gold and silver have long been considered popular hedges against inflation. Unlike fiat currency, these metals cannot be printed in unlimited quantities by central banks.

    At the same time, investors often look to these metals amid market volatility and global instability, as their value isn’t tied to any specific country, currency or economy.

    In just the last 12 months, the price of gold has surged by roughly 40%.

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

    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.

    With a minimum purchase of $10,000, Goldco offers free shipping and access to a library of retirement resources. Plus, the company will match up to 10% of qualified purchases in free silver.

    If you’re curious whether this is the right investment to diversify your portfolio, you can download your free gold and silver information guide today.

    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

    Income, even in a down market

    Like stocks, real estate has its cycles, but it doesn’t rely on a booming market to generate returns.

    Even during a recession, high-quality, essential real estate can continue to produce passive income through rent. In other words, you don’t have to wait for prices to rise to see a payoff — the asset itself can work for you.

    Legendary investor Warren Buffett has often pointed to real estate as a prime example of a productive, income-generating asset.

    In 2022, Buffett stated 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.”

    Traditionally, investing in real estate meant buying property and becoming a landlord. But new investing platforms are making it easier than ever to tap into the real estate market.

    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.

    If you’re not an accredited investor, crowdfunding platforms like Arrived allow you to enter the real estate market for as little as $100.

    You can gain access to shares of SEC-qualified investments in rental homes and vacation rentals, curated and vetted for their appreciation and income potential.

    Backed by world-class investors like Jeff Bezos, Arrived makes it easy to fit these properties into your investment portfolio regardless of your income level. Their flexible investment amounts and simplified process allows accredited and non-accredited investors to take advantage of this inflation-hedging asset class without any extra work on your part.

    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.

  • Rick Rule warns the US dollar will ‘lose 75%’ of its buying power in 10 years — reveals 1 shockproof asset he owns because he’s ‘afraid’ it will spike 249%. Is your nest-egg protected?

    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.

    If you go by the official numbers, the inflation spike of 2022 may feel like a thing of the past. But according to legendary investor Rick Rule — former president and CEO of Sprott U.S. Holdings — the U.S. dollar’s erosion in purchasing power is far from over.

    The culprit, he says, is America’s massive and growing debt burden.

    “The net present value of off-balance-sheet liabilities, which is to say Medicare, Medicaid, Social Security, federal pensions, military pensions — the net present value of unfunded federal promises in the United States exceeds $100 trillion,” Rule said in a recent interview with Kitco.

    Don’t miss

    While the official U.S. national debt currently stands at $36.22 trillion, some experts estimate that unfunded liabilities are upwards of $70 trillion, pushing the total past $100 trillion.

    Rule warns that serving that debt will come at a cost to everyday Americans.

    “We will have to allow the purchasing power of the U.S. dollar to decline so that we can honor our nominal debts while not honoring our real debts,” he explained in the interview. “I believe because of this $100 trillion in unfunded entitlement liabilities, that the U.S. dollar will lose 75% of its purchasing power over 10 years.”

    It’s a stark outlook — but not without precedent. Rule pointed to the dollar’s steep decline in the 1970s as an example of how quickly purchasing power can evaporate.

    After all, $100 in 2025 has the same purchasing power as just $12.05 in 1970, according to the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis inflation calculator.

    Rule doesn’t save in dollars — he saves in this asset

    If Rule’s prediction of a 75% drop in the U.S. dollar’s purchasing power over the next decade proves accurate, it could mean serious trouble for anyone holding the greenback. So what does he rely on?

    “I maintain liquidity in things like the U.S. dollar and the Canadian dollar — I save in gold,” he told Kitco.

    Gold has served as a store of value for thousands of years — and for good reason. Unlike fiat currencies, the precious metal can’t be printed at will by central banks, making it a natural hedge against inflation and currency devaluation.

    Over the past 12 months, gold prices have surged by more than 40%. But Rule believes that’s just the beginning, given how much real value the dollar is expected to lose.

    “I believe that over the next 10 years, gold’s appreciation, at least in nominal terms, will mirror the devaluation of the purchasing power of the U.S. dollar,” he said. “I don’t own gold because I hope it’ll go to $3,500, I own gold because I’m afraid it’ll go to $12,000.”

    Considering where gold is trading today, $12,000 would represent a potential upside of roughly 250%.

    Rule isn’t alone in turning to gold as a safeguard. Ray Dalio, founder of Bridgewater Associates — the world’s largest hedge fund — also sees it as a key component of 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.”

    A gold IRA is one option for building up your retirement fund with an inflation-hedging asset.

    Opening a gold IRA with the help of Goldco allows you to invest in gold and other precious metals in physical forms while also providing the significant tax advantages of an IRA.

    With a minimum purchase of $10,000, Goldco offers free shipping and access to a library of retirement resources. Plus, the company will match up to 10% of qualified purchases in free silver.

    If you’re curious whether this is the right investment to diversify your portfolio, you can download your free gold and silver information guide today.

    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 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.

  • Ray Dalio warns Americans the current chaos is much bigger than tariffs — claims the era of US dominance is over and sees ‘big disruptive’ shifts ahead. 2 simple ways to protect yourself

    Ray Dalio warns Americans the current chaos is much bigger than tariffs — claims the era of US dominance is over and sees ‘big disruptive’ shifts ahead. 2 simple ways 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.

    Waves of tariffs from President Donald Trump — despite a temporary pause on many — has unleashed chaos across global markets, reigniting trade tensions and rattling investors. But billionaire hedge fund manager Ray Dalio says the real storm is still to come.

    On April 7, in a lengthy social media post, Dalio argued that the recent tariff drama is merely a symptom of deeper, structural problems.

    “We are seeing a classic breakdown of the major monetary, political, and geopolitical orders,” he wrote.

    Dalio outlined five forces he described as reshaping the global landscape.

    Don’t miss

    1. The global monetary order

    Dalio said the global economic order is breaking down due to unsustainable debt and deep imbalances between debtor nations like the U.S. and creditor nations like China. As these imbalances unwind, Dalio warned the current monetary order will be forced to change in “big disruptive ways”, with major consequences for capital markets and the broader economy.

    2. The political order

    Dalio sees the political order of democracies breaking down under the weight of what he calls “huge gaps” in people’s education, income and opportunity levels, as well as values. He said history shows this kind of environment often gives rise to “strong autocratic leaders” — especially when paired with economic and market turmoil.

    3. The global power structure

    Dalio was blunt on this point: “The international geopolitical world order is breaking down because the era of one dominant power (the U.S.) that dictates the order that other countries follow is over.” He argued it’s being replaced by a “unilateral, power-rules” approach. While the U.S. remains the most powerful nation, Dalio said it is now operating under a more self-interested, “America First” framework.

    4, 5. Nature and technology

    Dalio added that “acts of nature” — such as floods and pandemics — are becoming more disruptive, while rapid advances in technology — such as artificial intelligence — are impacting “all aspects of life, including the money/debt/economic order, the political order, the international order, and the costs of acts of nature.”

    Beyond the tariffs

    Dalio didn’t offer specific investment advice in his post. But in a February interview with CNBC, he noted the importance of diversification — and pointed to the role of one time-tested asset.

    “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 is considered a go-to safe haven. It can’t be printed out of thin air like fiat money, and because it’s not tied to any single currency or economy, investors flock to it during periods of economic turmoil or geopolitical uncertainty, driving up its value. Over the past 12 months, gold prices have surged by around 35%.

    A gold IRA is one option for building up your retirement fund with an inflation-hedging asset.

    Opening a gold IRA with the help of Goldco allows you to invest in gold and other precious metals in physical forms while also providing the significant tax advantages of an IRA.

    With a minimum purchase of $10,000, Goldco offers free shipping and access to a library of retirement resources. Plus, the company will match up to 10% of qualified purchases in free silver.

    If you’re curious whether this is the right investment to diversify your portfolio, you can download your free gold and silver information guide today.

    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 tangible hedge with passive income

    Many experts — including Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell and JPMorgan CEO Jamie Dimon — have warned that Trump’s tariffs could trigger a significant rise in inflation.

    While gold remains a classic hedge, real estate offers a time-tested alternative — with the added benefit of generating passive income.

    When inflation rises, property values often increase as well, reflecting the higher cost of materials, labor and land. At the same time, rising living expenses tend to push rents higher, helping landlords offset the erosion of purchasing power.

    Traditionally, investing in real estate meant buying property outright and becoming a landlord. New investing platforms are making it easier than ever to tap into the real estate market.

    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.

    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 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 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.

    Consult a professional

    Navigating today’s financial landscape can feel overwhelming. With markets swinging wildly and expert opinions often clashing, it’s difficult to know where to put your money. If you’re finding it difficult to make sense of the noise, now could be the right time to get in touch with a financial advisor.

    FinancialAdvisor.net is a free online service that helps you find a financial advisor who can help you create a plan to reach your financial goals. Just answer a few questions and their extensive online database will match you with a few vetted advisors based on your answers.

    You can view advisor profiles, read past client reviews, and schedule an initial consultation for free 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.

  • Even Warren Buffett warned that America’s trade deficit is ‘selling the nation out from under us’ — and proposed a ‘tariff called by another name.’ Here’s why his fix is better than Trump’s

    Even Warren Buffett warned that America’s trade deficit is ‘selling the nation out from under us’ — and proposed a ‘tariff called by another name.’ Here’s why his fix is better than Trump’s

    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’s sweeping tariffs have sent shockwaves across the globe, as he attempts to rein in the massive trade deficits the U.S. has with other nations.

    While many economists have criticized Trump’s blunt approach — and markets have reacted poorly — the issue he’s targeting is far from trivial. While the president has since gone back and forth on levying the tariffs, legendary investor Warren Buffett has been sounding the alarm on America’s growing trade deficit for decades.

    Don’t miss

    Back in 2003, Buffett wrote a Fortune article with the striking title: “America’s Growing Trade Deficit Is Selling The Nation Out From Under Us. Here’s A Way To Fix The Problem — And We Need To Do It Now.” In it, he issued a stark warning about the long-term risks of persistent trade imbalances.

    A trade deficit occurs when a country imports more than it exports. While that might sound harmless, Buffett warned that over time it leads to something far more serious: a steady transfer of national wealth to foreign hands.

    To drive the point home, he introduced a parable involving two fictional islands: Thriftville, whose industrious citizens produce more than they consume and export the surplus, and Squanderville, whose inhabitants consume more than they produce, financing their excess consumption by issuing IOUs to Thriftville.

    Over time, Thriftville accumulates substantial claims on Squanderville’s future output, leading to a scenario where Squanderville’s citizens must work harder just to repay the debt, effectively becoming economically subservient to Thriftville.

    Buffett took the analogy further, warning that Thriftville’s citizens might lose faith in Squanderville’s IOUs.

    “Just how good, they ask, are the IOUs of a shiftless island?” Buffett wrote.

    “So the Thrifts change strategy: Though they continue to hold some bonds, they sell most of them to Squanderville residents for Squanderbucks and use the proceeds to buy Squanderville land. And eventually the Thrifts own all of Squanderville.”

    Buffett’s central concern was that the U.S. was behaving just like Squanderville — consuming far more than it produced, and becoming increasingly indebted to the rest of the world.

    He warned that, at the trade deficit level at the time, foreign ownership of U.S. assets would “grow at about $500 billion per year.” As that ownership increases, he cautioned, so too will the net investment income flowing out of the country.

    “That will leave us paying ever-increasing dividends and interest to the world rather than being a net receiver of them, as in the past,” he wrote. “We have entered the world of negative compounding — goodbye pleasure, hello pain.”

    That was more than two decades ago. But Buffett’s warning still resonates today. By the end of 2024, the U.S. net international investment position had plunged to -$26.2 trillion — meaning foreign investors now own over $26 trillion more in U.S. assets than Americans own abroad.

    Buffett’s market-based fix: a ‘tariff called by another name’

    Buffett proposed a bold fix: a concept he calls the “Import Certificate” system — a market-based solution to reduce the U.S. trade deficit.

    Here’s how it works:

    Exporters earn certificates — For every dollar an American company earns by exporting goods or services, it receives an Import Certificate of equal value.

    Importers must buy certificates — To bring goods into the U.S., importers must purchase these certificates from exporters.

    This effectively limits total imports to the value of exports, achieving trade balance. It also creates a powerful financial incentive to export, since companies can sell their certificates on the open market to importers.

    How does Buffett’s idea compare to the sweeping tariffs currently being implemented by Trump?

    Buffett himself acknowledged that, “in truth,” his import certificate system is “a tariff called by another name.” But he was quick to note that it avoids the typical pitfalls of traditional tariffs — namely, industry favoritism, geopolitical tension, and the risk of escalating trade wars.

    “This is a tariff that retains most free-market virtues, neither protecting specific industries nor punishing specific countries nor encouraging trade wars,” he wrote. “This plan would increase our exports and might well lead to increased overall world trade. And it would balance our books without there being a significant decline in the value of the dollar, which I believe is otherwise almost certain to occur.”

    In other words, Buffett’s proposal is designed to nudge markets toward equilibrium — not to punish America’s trading partners.

    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’ for everyday investors

    While Buffett’s solution was never implemented, it’s clear that investors haven’t responded well to Trump’s version. Markets around the world have tumbled in the wake of his tariff announcements, with the sell-off wiping out trillions of dollars in global equity value.

    And while headlines are dominated by recession fears and rising geopolitical tensions, Buffett has consistently emphasized one unwavering belief — his confidence in America.

    “American business — and consequently a basket of stocks — is virtually certain to be worth far more in the years ahead,” Buffett wrote in his 2016 letter to shareholders.

    That same optimism carried through in his 2022 letter:

    “I have yet to see a time when it made sense to make a long-term bet against America. And I doubt very much that any reader of this letter will have a different experience in the future.”

    When it comes to individual investors, Buffett’s advice is as simple as it is enduring.

    “In my view, for most people, the best thing to do is own the S&P 500 index fund,” he famously stated. This straightforward approach gives investors exposure to 500 of America’s largest companies across various industries, 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: simply 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.

    While investing in an index fund is straightforward, some investors may want guidance on building a portfolio tailored to their specific financial goals. That’s where a professional can help.

    With Advisor.com, you can find the best advisor for your needs — both in terms of what they can offer your finances, and what they’ll charge to work for you.

    Advisor.com is a free service that helps you find a financial advisor who can co-create a plan to reach your financial goals. By matching you with a curated list of the best options for you from their database of thousands, you get a pre-screened financial advisor you can trust.

    You can then set up a free, no obligation consultation to see if they’re the right fit for you.

    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.

  • 2 Chainz says every time he splurges on ‘stupid stuff’ like a Rolls Royce, he buys this 1 wealth-building asset to ‘balance it out’ — how to channel his champagne style on a beer budget

    2 Chainz says every time he splurges on ‘stupid stuff’ like a Rolls Royce, he buys this 1 wealth-building asset to ‘balance it out’ — how to channel his champagne style on a beer budget

    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.

    From classic muscle cars to high-end European rides, Grammy-winning rapper 2 Chainz is no stranger to big splurges.

    But beyond the flashy impulse purchases, he’s also been making some smart money moves behind the scenes.

    Don’t miss

    In a recent episode of the Club Shay Shay podcast, host and Super Bowl champion Shannon Sharpe asked 2 Chainz to name some of his wildest purchases.

    “I think I bought a [Rolls Royce] Phantom and a Maybach,” 2 Chainz told Sharpe.

    “Damn, that is $800,000!” replied Sharpe, stunned by the sheer size of the purchase.

    But 2 Chainz insists there’s a method to the madness: “Every time I do something stupid, I try to balance it out,” he said.

    What does he use to balance it out? Real estate.

    “As soon as I go buy a couple of chains, I would hit the girl that’s handling my real estate business and tell her, ‘Can you send me some properties to look at?’” he explained.

    The veteran rapper noted that artists who suddenly come into wealth often spend freely on “stupid stuff” — from cars to jewelry. But eventually, the conversation would shift to passive income and investments.

    For 2 Chainz, real estate is a no-brainer — having spent hours in the studio just scrolling through property listings.

    “I’m a property hoarder,” he told Sharpe. “I be getting penalized, but it’s my dirt and I know they don’t make no more dirt.”

    ‘They don’t make no more dirt’

    As 2 Chainz points out, one of the core truths about real estate is just how scarce it can be.

    You can’t create land out of thin air — and buildable land is even harder to come by.

    Even Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell acknowledged at a press conference last year that the real problem behind America’s housing crisis is simple: “We have had, and are on track to continue to have, not enough housing.”

    An analysis by Zillow published in June 2024 estimated the U.S. housing shortage to be 4.5 million homes.

    That supply-demand imbalance may help explain why home prices continue to climb. Over the past five years, the S&P CoreLogic Case-Shiller U.S. National Home Price NSA Index has surged by more than 50%.

    But, these days, you don’t need to be as wealthy as 2 Chainz to start investing in real estate. 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 rental income deposits from your investment.

    Another way to go is Homeshares, which gives accredited investors access to the $35 trillion U.S. home equity market, according to Federal Reserve data — 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 headache 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

    A finer alternative

    Beyond real estate, the ultra-wealthy are also known to hoard fine art — and it’s easy to see why.

    The supply of truly great works 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, according to a recent Deloitte blog post.

    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.

    See important Regulation A disclosures at Masterworks.com/cd

    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.