Get practical advice on managing personal finances, budgeting, saving, and achieving financial goals. Explore topics such as retirement planning, debt management, insurance, taxes, and estate planning. Enhance your financial literacy and take control of your financial future.
Dear Anika, I’ve accumulated over $20,000 in student loans throughout my education. Currently, I’m only making the minimum monthly payment on them. Given your expertise in personal finance and wealth management, do you think this approach is wise? What are the pros and cons of only paying the minimum versus trying to pay them off … Read more
It’s often said that love and money are the two most debated topics around the world. When intertwined in a relationship, they can either lay the foundation for mutual growth or become a point of contention. Financial disagreements can bring underlying fears and insecurities to the forefront, muddying the waters of even the most harmonious … Read more
Whispered words from grandparents, off-handed comments from parents, the barely audible sighs during bill-paying nights—generations past unknowingly impart their financial lessons in these fleeting moments. While some of these lessons serve as sturdy stepping stones, others might feel more like stumbling blocks. Many of us have inherited a tapestry of generational money beliefs, woven with … Read more
In an age where many young adults fantasize about their first set of wheels or the allure of tattoos, Ryleigh Ramey of Festus has always been fueled by a different passion. Her aspiration? Carving out her entrepreneurial path. Thus emerged Tanglefoot Creamery, the only destination in Festus for the delight of rolled ice cream. Although … Read more
In a world that’s progressively accepting diverse identities and orientations, one might wonder: Are we doing enough to make sure that acceptance translates to every facet of life? Especially in sectors like finance where traditionally, only a few voices were heard? As an individual deeply rooted in finance and wealth management, I, Anika Patel, intend … Read more
We asked our readers to suggest the biggest personal finance issues they face. Here are some of the comments: “I completely understand the struggle of managing personal finances. With rising prices and stagnant incomes, it’s becoming increasingly difficult to make ends meet. One of the biggest problems I face is budgeting. Despite my best efforts, … Read more
In love and relationships, trust is the music that guides the rhythm and flow. It’s the unspoken understanding that two partners are working in harmony, aligning their steps, and moving towards shared goals. But what happens when the music falters, and a partner strays from the agreed-upon path? In the realm of money management, this … Read more
Taking that significant step of moving in together is a thrilling leap of faith that blends emotions, lives, and of course, finances. It’s a venture into uncharted waters, filled with the joy of sharing space and the complexity of intertwining monetary matters. It’s about love and trust, but also about dollars and cents. These intricate … Read more
Behavioral economics pulls back the curtain on the irrational ways we often handle money. We’ll unravel the mysteries of human behavior in economic decisions, enriching readers’ understanding of why we often act against our financial best interests. At times perplexing, often downright baffling, the mental pathways we take in making financial choices can be a … Read more
The advent of the gig economy has ushered in a revolution in how we perceive work, employment, and even the very fabric of our social structures. Far beyond a mere shift in the labor market, it has become a cultural phenomenon that redefines our relationship with work, community, and ourselves. Traditional notions of job security, … Read more
In the vast world of personal finance, a familiar mantra often echoed is “spend less, save more.” While it’s undeniably wise advice, there’s a nuance that often gets overshadowed in this age-old wisdom. Cutting minuscule amounts from your budget can only take you so far. Increasing your income, on the other hand, unlocks a world … Read more
With these tools in hand, you’re not merely surviving; you’re carving out a thriving, fulfilling, and lucrative path in the gig economy of 2023. Welcome to the future of work, crafted by your hands, driven by your vision.
As someone deeply entrenched in the world of finances, I often find wisdom and guidance in the unlikeliest of places. Surprisingly, one of my most profound learning experiences has come from the classic board game, Risk. The game, known for its blend of strategy, negotiation, and chance, has given me several insights into managing personal … Read more
The financial landscape is filled with unforeseen obstacles and treacherous terrains. A recent report reveals that 55% of Americans find themselves ill-prepared to cover major expenses, such as emergency home repairs or splurging on the latest tech gadget. The struggle is real and resonates with many of us, including myself. This predicament often arises when … Read more
In the convoluted landscape of modern business, salary negotiations and compensations are often shrouded in secrecy, treated almost as taboos. While some argue that keeping salaries under wraps protects individual privacy, a growing movement pushes for open salary disclosure as a pathway to equity and fairness. As a financial psychologist who often delves into the … Read more
In today’s fast-paced and interconnected world, credit has become an integral part of personal finance. It serves as the financial bridge that connects our present to our future, allowing us to make essential purchases like homes and cars or start a business. Yet, for something so vital, credit remains shrouded in mystery for many. Misconceptions … Read more
I’m 19 years old and recently received a $100,000 settlement from an accident, but after fees, I’ll have $60,000 left. As someone who tends to spend impulsively on things like video games, and who has never handled this much money, I’m worried I’ll squander it. My parents tell me that this money could set me … Read more
In the labyrinth of numbers and transactions that make up our financial lives, it’s easy to lose sight of the human side of wealth. But let’s pause, flip the coin, and explore the other side— emotional wealth. It’s not often discussed, yet it plays an underappreciated role in our overall well-being. Emotional wealth is the … Read more
Let’s begin a little journey, you and I, walking through the vibrant streets of Addis Ababa. Notice the colorful market stalls, each one brimming with fragrant spices, fresh produce, and skillfully crafted wares. This isn’t just a typical market scene; it’s a vibrant tapestry of age-old wisdom on saving and spending. Money, like water, must … Read more
We are often told that money and emotions should never mix. But in reality, our finances and feelings are so intricately linked that trying to separate them is like trying to separate the colours in a sunset. It’s particularly true for single parents who bear the financial responsibilities alone while also shouldering the emotional wellbeing … Read more