Category: Moneywise

A rare comic book featuring the first appearance of Spider-Man has been sold for $30,000 in Barrie, highlighting the lucrative market for vintage collectibles.

Marc Sims, the owner of Big B Comics on Essa Road, recently completed the sale of a copy of Amazing Fantasy No. 15, a 1962 issue that introduced the web-slinging superhero. The comic, which is widely regarded as one of the most important in Marvel history, has seen its value skyrocket over the years, with high-grade copies fetching hundreds of thousands—or even millions—at auction.

Sims, who acquired the issue just over a month ago, said it was an exciting sale that underscores the lasting demand for well-preserved, historic comic books.

“Amazing Fantasy No. 15 is a landmark issue that marked the debut of one of the most iconic superheroes,” Sims told CTV News. “It’s a grail book for collectors, and even in mid-grade condition, it can command five- and six-figure prices.”

The rising value of vintage comics

Comic book collecting has long been a niche hobby, but in recent years, it has also become a serious investment vehicle. Rare and historically significant comics, particularly those from the Golden (1938-1956) and Silver (1956-1970) ages, have seen dramatic appreciation in value.

A high-grade copy of Amazing Fantasy No. 15 sold for US$3.6 million in 2021, setting a record for a Spider-Man comic. While most copies don’t reach that level, even issues in lower grades can sell for tens of thousands, making them a valuable asset class for collectors and investors alike.

“Condition and scarcity are key,” said Sims. “If a comic is rare and well-preserved, it can increase in value significantly over time.”

What makes collectibles a smart investment?

The sale of the rare Spider-Man comic is a reminder that childhood collectibles can turn into lucrative assets. Unlike stocks or real estate, collectibles offer a unique blend of nostalgia and financial opportunity. They are also largely uncorrelated with traditional financial markets, meaning they can hold their value even during economic downturns.

However, experts warn that collectibles are not a guaranteed investment and require knowledge of the market.

Stephen Fishler, CEO of ComicConnect, emphasized the enduring demand for iconic comics like Amazing Fantasy No. 15. In a 2021 interview with Bleeding Cool back in 2011, Fishler remarked that the comic "is a cornerstone of pop culture," adding that such books always have a market due to their historical significance.

“Rarity, character significance, and condition all play a role in determining price,” Fishler explained.

Other childhood collectibles that could be valuable

Comic books aren’t the only childhood items that could be worth a small fortune. Many vintage collectibles have surged in value, including:

• Baseball and hockey cards – Cards featuring rookie appearances of legendary players, such as Wayne Gretzky or Mickey Mantle, can fetch six or seven figures at auction.
• Vintage dolls and action figures – Barbie dolls from the 1950s and original Star Wars action figures in mint condition can be worth thousands.
• Retro video games – Sealed copies of classic Nintendo, Sega, and PlayStation games have seen a boom in value, with some selling for over $1 million.

How to find out if your collectibles have value

If you suspect you own a valuable collectible, there are several ways to assess its worth:

1. Professional appraisers – Reputable dealers and appraisers can evaluate the condition and market value of an item.
2. Auction houses – Major auction sites like Heritage Auctions and Sotheby’s specialize in high-value collectibles and offer appraisal services.
3. Online marketplaces – Websites like eBay and PriceCharting can provide insights into current market trends based on recent sales data.
4. Grading services – Companies like the Certified Guaranty Company (CGC) for comics and Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA) for trading cards offer professional grading, which can significantly impact an item’s value.

While collecting remains a passion for many, it’s clear that some childhood treasures have become serious investment opportunities. For those lucky enough to have kept their prized possessions in good condition, a hidden fortune might be waiting.

Sources

1. CTV News: Barrie, Ont. collector sells rare $30K Spider-Man comic from 1962 (March 28, 2025)

1. Bleeding Cool: Spider-Man Shocker: Highest Graded Copy of Amazing Fantasy #15 Goes For $1.1 Million (March 9, 2011)

This article Barrie collector sells rare Spider-Man comic for $30K, highlighting value of vintage collectibles originally appeared on Money.ca

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

Soaring food prices have been hurting consumers for years. But things are coming to a head, especially as retailers and consumers grapple with tariff concerns.

According to Bloomberg, Walmart CEO Doug McMillon recently shared at the Economic Club of Chicago that food prices are still elevated — and that consumers are showing signs of "stress behaviors."

“We worry about that,” McMillon said. “You can see that the money runs out before the month is gone.”

McMillon says that shoppers are being more selective in what they buy and are prioritizing value purchases.

“There are lots of income levels in this country — if you’re at the lower end of that scale, you are feeling more frustration and pain because of higher food prices,” he said. “They’ve persisted for years now, and you’re just tired of it."

But what’s the ripple effect behind these price increases?

Food prices aren’t slowing down

According to the Consumer Price Index, food costs were up 2.6% broadly year over year in February, while grocery prices were up 1.9% annually.

All told, food prices have been up nearly 25% since 2020. A big reason for the spike is the supply chain issues caused by severe weather and global events. It hasn’t helped that several food staples have been in short supply.

For example, in early 2025, a bird flu outbreak caused an egg shortage and drove the price of eggs up to a record high that hasn’t been seen since 1980.

Meanwhile, a decline in U.S. cattle inventory has made beef more expensive. The country’s cattle supply recently fell to its lowest level in 64 years.

And down in the South, a citrus greening disease has reduced Florida’s citrus production by 75% since 2005. Extreme weather from hurricanes has also harmed supply, making citrus products more expensive.

Cocoa prices have also risen due to a global supply shortage since early 2024. This has been primarily caused by weather-related issues and diseases ruining crops in West Africa, where the majority of the world’s cocoa is produced.

The combination of these and other factors has made groceries more expensive overall. In late 2024, a survey by Swiftly found that 70% of American consumers are having difficulty affording groceries.

A broad immigration crackdown could also negatively affect food costs, as it could lead to labor shortages that impact supply. And with the potential for tariffs to drive prices up even more, things could get worse before they get better.

How to save money on groceries

Unfortunately, consumers may be in for another year of soaring grocery prices. But there are steps you can take to reduce the burden.

First, consider buying staple items in bulk. You don’t necessarily need a warehouse club membership to take advantage of bulk discounts. Many supermarkets and big-box stores carry select items in bulk. But be careful with bulk perishables, because wasted food can become wasted money.

It’s also a good idea to shop at discount grocers in your area — think dollar stores or supermarkets like Aldi that carry lesser-known brands. If there’s no discount grocery store where you live, load up on the store brand. But always check prices, because a sale on a national brand could make it the most cost-effective option.

Planning your meals based on what’s on sale at your local supermarket is also a good idea. Focus on meals that freeze easily — like casseroles and stews. This way, you can whip up a lot of food and save some for later.

Also, make sure you’re signed up for your supermarket’s loyalty program. You may qualify for extra discounts, promotions or digital coupons that save you even more.

Using the right credit card when you shop for groceries can make a big difference, too. Some offer bonus cash back on supermarket purchases. That won’t lower your costs, but it could at least put more cash back in your pocket.

Finally, seek out alternative sources of food. Farmers’ markets can sometimes result in savings, but not always. A smarter bet may be to go directly to local farms, if possible, to see if you can score produce at a discount. Joining a community garden or community supported agriculture program could also help you save on fresh items when needed.

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

President Donald Trump‘s newly appointed housing chief has made waves by launching a dramatic shakeup at mortgage giants Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, potentially reshaping America’s mortgage market.

William Pulte, a private equity executive whose family founded one of the country’s largest homebuilding companies, took charge of the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) on March 13. The regulator is responsible for overseeing both Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. Pulte wasted no time in executing a dramatic purge of leadership at both mortgage giants.

According to multiple reports, a number of board members across Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac were swiftly replaced, with Pulte installing himself as chairman of both entities. Freddie Mac’s CEO Diana Reid, a long-serving executive, was also removed — sending a clear message about the scope and seriousness of this transformation.

So, what do these abrupt changes signal for the housing market and the mortgages of millions of American homeowners?

Privatization speculation

Pulte’s bold moves have ignited speculation the Trump administration is pushing to privatize Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. Both are government-sponsored entities (GSEs) and have been under federal conservatorship since the 2008 financial crisis in which they were bailed out. Together, the companies back 70% of the mortgage market, according to The New York Times. Skeptics believe privatization would make buying a home more expensive in the midst of a housing affordability crisis.

“It would mean that mortgage rates would increase — definitely,” Laurie Goodman, founder of the Housing Finance Policy Center at the Urban Institute, a think tank in Washington, D.C., said to the news publication.

Meanwhile, privatization could be a boon for both investors and the federal government. Depending on the structure of the deal, privatizing could generate billions of dollars in revenue for an administration that’s focused on cutting down wasteful spending across the board. Placing these companies in private hands would also free the government from potential future bailout obligations.

For his part, Pulte has struck a measured tone publicly. He told CNN that “it’s critical to ensure any discussion about exiting conservatorship needs not only to ensure safety and soundness but how it would affect mortgage rates.”

Impact on the housing market

Why do critics think privatizing these entities would increase borrowing rates? Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac don’t directly issue mortgages — rather they buy mortgages from lenders and package them for investors as securities. This maintains cash flow within the mortgage industry, allowing lenders to offer stable, affordable rates, experts say.

But if the federal government no longer backs these entities, their safety net goes with it.

“When the government is backing an entity’s products and services, it helps to reduce risk, especially in the generating of loans,” Alex Beene, financial literacy instructor for the University of Tennessee at Martin, told Newsweek. “Removing it opens the door to higher interest rates for those looking to buy or refinance. It could also lead to more restrictive policies in even getting a loan, as lenders react more cautiously to some buyers.”

Increased rates could affect affordability, particularly for first-time buyers or those with modest incomes already stretched thin by soaring home prices.

As for homeowners with existing mortgages may also be affected if they ever want to refinance their loan. It may be less likely you can reduce your monthly payments if you’re struggling to get by.

The long-term impact of this housing shakeup remain uncertain, however, homebuyers and homeowners could serve themselves well by staying informed so they can navigate potential changes effectively.

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

When Caledonia Spirits, a Vermont-based distillery known for its Barr Hill Gin, spent four months preparing an order for shipment to Quebec, the company expected their bottles to reach customers across the border.

Instead, after President Donald Trump announced tariffs on Canada in early February, the order was abruptly canceled. This decision is leaving the business with unsellable inventory and an uncertain future in the Canadian market. The company creates bottles and labels to meet Canadian regulations, meaning they can’t easily repurpose the spirits in other markets.

The situation is not unique to Caledonia Spirits. Vermont’s Secretary of Commerce, Lindsay Kurrle, described the issue as a major disruption for small businesses exporting to Canada. “Vermont producers who have prepared alcohol to be sold in Canada are left with this alcohol that can’t just be sold here,” Kurrle said at a press conference. “It’s not an easy fix. It costs money. It takes investments.”’

How do the tariffs impact Vermont businesses?

As small businesses across Vermont and the U.S. deal with the financial consequences of shifting trade policies, understanding the impact of tariffs and preparing for sudden changes is proving critical.

Governor Phil Scott acknowledged the challenges, stating that these tariffs are straining relationships between Vermont producers and Canadian retailers.

“It’s creating this divide, and they’re taking your product off their shelves because they don’t want it there anymore,” Scott said. “It’s unfortunate. These are our friends.”

When businesses depend on exports, tariffs can shut down vital revenue streams. Finding alternative buyers in a short timeframe isn’t always feasible, especially when products are customized for foreign markets.

Businesses that are able to export their goods or rely on imports are often left with two choices: absorb the cost of tariffs and take a financial hit or pass those costs onto their customers through increased prices, which can make them less competitive. Neither option is ideal.

Kurrle says she’s been in contact with the consul general for Canada and is working to find a solution for Vermont businesses.

"Our goal is to try to find out what does Premier Legault need to see from us to try to get Vermont products back on the shelves," Kurrle explained.

Governor Scott also created an interagency task force, led by Kurrle, to monitor the impact of tariffs on Vermont businesses and consumers.

Financial strategies to reduce the impact of tariffs

Trade policies often change, and it can be frustrating for businesses to navigate. However, some steps can reduce your exposure to tariff-related disruptions.

Explore domestic growth opportunities

Since tariffs primarily affect cross-border trade, focusing on domestic expansion can help businesses maintain revenue. Seeking partnerships within the U.S. can offset lost international sales. For example, distilleries could collaborate with American hospitality chains, restaurants, or local retailers to increase domestic distribution. Another option is expanding your product offering to appeal to a larger customer base.

Apply for tariff exemptions

Some industries or specific products may qualify for tariff exemptions. In 2019, Apple successfully applied for tariff exemptions on certain imports. While smaller businesses generally lack the lobbying power of major corporations, industry groups and coalitions can sometimes advocate for exemptions. It may be worth researching available programs or consulting trade organizations for assistance.

Negotiate with suppliers

Businesses can also look at renegotiating their own supplier contracts to mitigate the impact of tariffs. This may include negotiating bulk purchase discounts, requesting suppliers to share some of the tariff burden, or locking in long-term contracts that secure stable pricing.

Optimize your supply chain

Reducing operational costs in other areas can help offset the financial impact of tariffs. Businesses should examine their supply chain for inefficiencies, such as unnecessary expenses in shipping, packaging, or inventory management. Exploring automation, adjusting logistics strategies, or reducing overordering can help minimize costs.

Leverage government assistance programs

Federal and state-level programs may offer financial relief for businesses affected by tariffs. Programs such as Small Business Administration (SBA) loans, export assistance grants, or state trade expansion programs (STEP) can provide funding and assistance to help businesses adjust.

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

Kay and Ryan Zin spent a year and more than $300,000 on permits and renovations before opening Bay of Burma restaurant in San Francisco’s South of Market area in 2023.

The business owners leased space on the ground level of a mixed-use building, with residences upstairs. The day after their grand opening, they learned the city was turning the residences into a homeless shelter for youth.

"We didn’t have any clue what is happening on the building," Kay told ABC7 News in San Francisco.

With the shelter slated to open April 2025, the Zins feel trapped. They want to relocate, but that would mean breaking their lease and losing the money they invested in their existing restaurant.

"We are the tenants, too,” Ryan said. “We don’t want to deal with everything that we don’t want to because we want to focus on our business, but our hands are tied."

Balancing social needs with business concerns

The city chose the location because it complements other city-run supports nearby, including an addiction treatment center, a sobering center and homeless shelter.

But area businesses are concerned about increased crime. The Zins’ restaurant has already been robbed twice — at gunpoint. Small businesses are worried would-be customers will stay away due to growing safety concerns.

"I just wanted to relocate to a safer place," said Kay.

For over a year, the Zins have been communicating with the city’s Homelessness and Supportive Housing (HSH) department about their concerns. They want the city to refund their $300,000-plus investment so they can move.

HSH supervisor Matt Dorsey told ABC7 News is willing to help the Zins and that he doesn’t “want to do anything that will hurt a small business.”

“They didn’t sign up for this,” he said. “They want out. I’m happy to have that conversation and bring my office in negotiating that.”

Dorsey added that the city will be providing round-the-clock “ambassador services” in the neighborhood to address concerns about safety. He said there will also be onsite security in the shelter overnight.

When local policy impact local businesses

Small business owners in situations like the Zins may feel stuck, but there are steps to mitigate risk, advocate for support and deal with risk.

Understand your rights. Before signing a lease, it’s critical to review any clauses about building ownership changes, city takeovers or early termination rights. If you’re already leasing, consult your lease agreement to see if the landlord violated any disclosure or notification requirements. Commercial tenants may have rights depending on lease terms and local ordinances.

Build alliances with other small businesses. You’re stronger together. Join or form a merchant association or collaborate with nearby businesses to share advocacy, safety initiatives and resources. Voice collective concerns to city officials or neighborhood councils.

Adapt to change. If your customer base shifts, consider adjusting your business model. This might include offering delivery or pickup to reach customers reluctant to visit in person, expanding your online presence or hosting community events to foster positive engagement.

Seek legal or financial advice. If you’re facing eviction, unexpected relocation or damages, consult a legal expert with experience in commercial property law. Additionally, a financial adviser can help you create a plan for relocation, recovery or assistance applications.

Apply for local or state grants and aid. Your municipality or state may offer grants to support small businesses facing displacement or hardship, covering things like relocation, lease assistance and infrastructure improvements.

Engage with city officials and local media. Make your voice heard by attending public meetings or speaking to local representatives. Raising awareness through media as the Zins did can also amplify your situation and potentially bring support or solutions.

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

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.

Given how much home prices have soared in America, many homeowners may be feeling richer than ever. But real estate mogul Grant Cardone says your house isn’t a smart investment — far from it.

In an interview with podcaster Sean Mike Kelly, Cardone called buying a home “a terrible investment.”

That may sound ironic coming from someone known for investing in residential real estate. But Cardone was quick to explain why: “[A home] doesn’t cash flow. You don’t get big tax write-offs because of it. You have no leverage. You’re living in it. You’re paying for it. You never own it. Even when the loan is paid, you don’t own it, no, you still got to pay property taxes, still got to insure, still got to maintain it.”

When you buy a home to live in, it’s true that it doesn’t generate any cash flow. And even once the mortgage is paid off, there are still ongoing costs: property taxes, insurance premiums, repairs and maintenance. And they can add up fast.

A 2024 Bankrate study found that the “hidden expenses” of owning a single-family home in the U.S. total $18,118 per year — covering everything from property taxes and insurance to maintenance, repairs and utilities. In other words, expect to spend nearly $20,000 annually on top of your mortgage payments.

Cardone says that what keeps people from recognizing the financial downsides is emotion.

“People get emotional about their house — ‘It’s my house!’” he said. “It ain’t your house. You’re a partner in this house with the state.”

‘Never buy a house’

Cardone’s suggestion is simple: “Never buy a house, rent where you live.”

But that doesn’t mean he’s against real estate entirely.

“I’m not saying don’t own real estate,” he clarified. “I’m saying live in a house and pay rent. Take all the money that you would have spent on that house and invest in real estate that cash flows — that pays you every month.”

So, what kind of real estate is he talking about?

Cardone listed several options: “Could be retail, storage, apartment buildings like we invest in. Could be land — if you’re a farmer or rancher and you know how to get cows to cash flow, then do that.”

Let’s break down some of these opportunities.

Retail

Cardone pointed to retail real estate as one potential opportunity — but not all retail is created equal.

With the rise of e-commerce, many brick-and-mortar stores have struggled, which can directly affect the income stream for retail property owners. That’s why selectivity is key.

Ben Mallah, another fellow Florida-based real estate mogul, says he focuses on what he calls “essential real estate” — specifically, “retail that the internet can’t hurt” and “Amazon can’t hurt.”

As online shopping continues to disrupt traditional retail, properties that serve everyday, in-person needs — like grocery stores and pharmacies — tend to offer more resilience. Big-box retailers may come and go, but think about your local supermarket. How long has it been in the same spot? Likely for years, if not decades. That kind of staying power is what makes grocery-anchored real estate attractive.

And you don’t need deep pockets like Cardone or Mallah to access this space. 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.

Apartments

Another type of real estate Cardone suggests? Apartments — a sector he’s heavily invested in himself.

Multifamily properties offer a key advantage: consistent cash flow. Unlike single-family homes, apartment buildings typically house multiple tenants, which helps spread out risk. If one unit sits vacant, the others can still generate income.

Apartments also tend to be resilient during economic shifts. No matter what’s happening in the broader economy, people still need a place to live. And with elevated home prices making ownership less accessible for many Americans, more people are turning to renting — which helps drive demand and keep occupancy rates high.

As with retail, real estate investment platforms and REITs have made it easier than ever for everyday investors to access the apartment market.

Take Fundrise, for example. The platform manages more than $2.87 billion in equity on behalf of over 385,000 individual investors. Its holdings span single-family rentals, multifamily properties and industrial buildings across the U.S.

Getting started is simple. After providing some basic details about your financial background and investment preferences, Fundrise will recommend a portfolio tailored to your goals. You don’t need to be an accredited investor — and you can get started with as little as $10.

Farmland

Cardone also mentioned agricultural land — though with a caveat: it’s best suited for those who understand how to make it cash flow.

While farmland isn’t as commonly discussed as retail or apartment buildings, it can be a compelling long-term investment. The logic is simple: come what may, people still need to eat.

That consistent demand makes farmland a resilient asset — often serving as a hedge during times of economic uncertainty.

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.

Getting exposure to this space is easier than you might think. Publicly traded REITs like Gladstone Land (LAND) and Farmland Partners (FPI) allow investors to participate in the sector without owning or managing farmland directly.

If you are looking for options outside the stock market, 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 appreciation of the land and profits from its sale.

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

The U.S. is not in a recession — yet.

But with threats of high tariffs on U.S. imports, policy uncertainty, mass deportations and Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) cuts, some economic observers believe the odds are rising.

“We’ve got a real uncertainty problem, it’s going to be hard to fix that,” former Treasury Secretary Lawrence Summers said in an interview on Bloomberg Television’s Wall Street Week with David Westin.

“We’re looking at a slowdown relative to what was forecast, almost for sure, and a serious, near 50% prospect of recession.”

J.P Morgan’s chief economist Bruce Kasman predicts a 40% chance of a U.S. recession this year.

“If we would continue down this road of what would be more disruptive, business-unfriendly policies, I think the risks on that recession front would go up,” he told reporters.

Of CFOs polled in the latest CNBC CFO Council Survey, the majority (95%) said government policy is impacting their ability to make business decisions. Three-quarters expected the economy to enter a recession in the latter half of this year or in 2026.

So what exactly defines a recession?

In the U.S., recessions are officially declared and dated — often retroactively — by the National Bureau of Economic Research (NBER) Business Cycle Dating Committee.

The committee defines a recession as “a significant decline in economic activity that is spread across the economy and lasts more than a few months.”

In wider practice, two consecutive quarters of negative gross domestic product (GDP) growth point to a recession.

Though there hasn’t been an official declaration, there are three warning signs all pointing to a potential recession:

The yield curve is signaling a recession. One predictor of a recession is when the yield on 10-year Treasury bonds falls below that of the three-month Treasury bill.

This occurred in late 2022 and lasted until late 2024, and occurred again in late February — and the yield spread between the two remains negative.

The time from when this situation occurs until the onset of a recession can vary, but it’s a strong indicator of a recession in the coming 16 to 20 months.

Leading economic indicators are pointing to a slowdown. Another predictor is the Conference Board Leading Economic Index (LEI). This index fell%20in%20January.) in February for the third consecutive month. The Conference Board is forecasting that GDP growth will slow.

Data and sentiment are turning negative. Consumer confidence is dropping, recent data for retail sales has been weak and the Federal Reserve Bank’s Economic Policy Uncertainty Index is high. CEOs are more pessimistic, consumers are pulling back and “workers are getting nervous,” according to The Wall Street Journal. And the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta’s GDPNow forecasting model is predicting that GDP growth will retract by 1.8% in the first quarter of 2025.

Be proactive to weather a downturn

All this talk of a recession may have you concerned. The best approach is to be proactive — but not panicked.

Build up an emergency fund. Prepare for potentially difficult times by setting aside an emergency fund that covers at least three months to a year of expenses, depending on how long you think it might take to get a job if you’re laid off. To boost your savings, investigate a high-interest savings account (HISA) or a high-yield savings account.

Pay down debt and avoid unnecessary expenditures. Servicing a large amount of debt could be a problem if your income declines or everyday costs go up (like egg prices). Avoid extra financial stress by creating a budget, paring down spending where you can and weighing large purchases carefully.

Protect or increase your income. You may want to look into a side hustle or second job to bring in some extra cash.

Talk to a financial adviser about how to maximize your investment performance. Make sure your portfolio is suitably diversified, including geographically, with exposure to sectors that perform better in a recession.

Most financial professionals advise against trying to time the market. Multiple studies show that staying in the market during downturns leads to better long-term returns, especially when you employ dollar-cost averaging — investing the same amount of money in the same securities at regular intervals regardless of their prices.

If you’ve been laid off, talk to your adviser about strategies that may make sense in low-tax years, such as a Roth conversion.

You may not have much control over whether there’s a recession, but you can take steps to weather the storm.

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

Even the most confident financial planner can question their future after a divorce.

But let’s say you’ve spent years as the primary breadwinner in your relationship, steadily building a comfortable retirement nest egg, only to lose both your life partner, along with $1.2 million following a costly divorce.

Even if you’re debt-free, have no children and still have a cushy $2 million in retirement accounts and $500,000 in savings, you might still be reeling from what you’ve lost and find it hard to be sure of your financial security.

It gets even trickier if you still co-own a home with your ex — especially if you plan to stay there for the foreseeable future.

You may have enough saved for your next chapter on paper — but how do you know for sure? Here’s how to assess whether you’re truly ready to retire and start this new chapter all on your own.

How to evaluate your situation

Dividing up your assets and losing $1.2 million in a divorce isn’t just a blow to your net worth — it can completely reshape your financial future. Having the right strategy is key to retiring comfortably.

The first step is to take stock of your current financial picture. Start by assessing:

• Short-term liquidity: Do you have enough cash for emergencies and necessary expenses without dipping into long-term investments?
• Monthly expenses: How much are your monthly expenses, especially if you plan to retire soon?
• Housing decisions: If you still share property now that you’re no longer married, would buying out your ex make sense, or would selling and downsizing give you greater financial flexibility?

Next, consider your financial stability. Evaluate health care costs and the ideal time to claim Social Security for maximum benefits. The longer you wait, the better. According to the Social Security Administration, retirement benefits increase every month you delay claiming them until age 70.

When it comes to withdrawals, running multiple scenarios — the straightforward 4% rule and perhaps even testing a more aggressive 5% withdrawal — can help you determine if your savings can support your lifestyle. Suppose you have $2.5 million in retirement accounts and savings. A 5% annual withdrawal would give you $125,000 per year, or about $10,415 per month — well above the average retiree’s income. Even sticking to 4% would translate to $100,000 a year or about $8,333 a month.

For context, a survey by Northwestern Manual found that U.S. adults believe they need $1.46 million to retire. However, the average adult has only $88,400 saved for retirement, while baby boomers have an average of $120,300 saved for retirement currently.

With your financial foundation, you’re ahead of the curve — but to make your retirement more secure, you can continue rebuilding your finances in many ways.

Rebuilding your investment strategy

Rebuilding your finances after a divorce takes time — even if you have a solid amount saved. But not everyone will be fortunate enough to have $2.5 million to fall back on after a costly breakup.

However much you’re working with, start by reviewing your investments. To lower your risk, you may want to redistribute your portfolio, and diversify across different assets like stocks, bonds and savings accounts. Dividend stocks can provide regular income and improve your financial stability throughout retirement.

If you’re unsure about retirement, work a few more years to increase your savings. You can delay Social Security payments to increase your monthly benefits and get more income for the long haul.

You don’t have to stick with full-time work to stay financially secure. Part-time or freelance jobs can help bring in extra cash. You can even rent out part of your home or start a small side business to add new income streams.

A good tip is to consult a financial advisor even if the numbers say you’re in good shape. They can help you make smarter decisions about your savings, minimize taxes when withdrawing funds, and decide whether to keep or sell your home.

The right strategy will help you feel more confident about your financial future, allowing you to enjoy the retirement you deserve.

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

For Sandra Martin, sharing a name with three other women in Broward County seemed like a harmless coincidence — until it made her the target of identity theft.

According to NBC 6 South Florida, the 62-year-old snowbird from Maryland learned that her Deerfield Beach home was fraudulently listed as a rental. Apparently, it was tied to thousands of dollars in COVID relief funds — money she never applied for.

“I was very surprised, I had no idea," Martin told reporters.

Investigators discovered that another Sandra Janet Martin from Lauderhill had assumed the identities of multiple Sandra Martins in Broward County.

“She assumed the identity of all these people that owned all these other properties to apply for rental assistance to the tune of $80,000," said crimes against property investigator Ralph Capone.

Broward woman targeted by namesake

Sandra Martin learned of the identity theft last year after a call from the Broward Sheriff’s Office.

Official records showed her Deerfield Beach home had a homestead exemption, was rented out, and received rental assistance relief funds.

In a startling turn of events, multiple women named Sandra Martin received rental assistance for four properties in Broward County. Each individual had different birth dates and Social Security numbers, which made investigators suspicious.

“This person has multiple properties in Broward County, all homesteaded. Which would never fly coming out of our office," Capone said.

While the honest Sandra Martin didn’t lose personal funds, her identity was exploited, leaving her to clear her name.

On the other hand, the suspect — Sandra Janet Martin from Lauderhill — faces theft and organized fraud charges.

Martin’s case highlights a surge in COVID-related scams. Scammers have used stolen identities to file fraudulent unemployment claims and Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans. According to the U.S. Department of Labor estimates, $191 billion in pandemic benefits was lost to fraud.

How scammers steal your identity

Identity thieves can trick victims into giving their personal information, often without awareness.

Fraudsters can pretend to be a bank representative with a text like, “Hi, we have a question about your recent purchase.” If you keep the conversation going, they could end up stealing sensitive data. They have also been known to pretend to be a distressed family member to gain your trust.

Even with publicly available information, the FTC warns consumers that identity thieves can impersonate victims in fraud schemes. Other than draining your bank account, they can even file a tax refund in your name and claim the benefits.

The best way to protect your personal information is to stay vigilant.

Here are a few ways to safeguard your personal information:

• Limit the personal details you share on social media: Scammers use online information to collect your details.
• Monitor your bank and credit card accounts regularly to identify suspicious activity: A good tip is to set up alerts for transactions to receive notifications about unusual transactions.
• Be cautious with unsolicited communication: Whether it’s an email, phone call, or text message, always verify the source before responding. Don’t click links or download attachments from unknown senders.
• Protect your accounts: Use strong, unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication to safeguard your information.

If you believe your identity has been stolen, report it to the FTC, bank, or law enforcement. Early detection and reporting can protect you from further damage.

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