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.
The American Dream is often synonymous with owning a home—a private space to call your own, where you build equity instead of handing over a rent check each month. But making the leap from renter to homeowner isn’t just about amassing a down payment and signing on the dotted line. It’s a complex journey that … Read more
I hope this email finds you well. I’ve been an avid reader of your column, and I really appreciate the practical advice you provide to help people make smart financial and lifestyle choices. So, here’s the thing: I’ve recently been inspired by a movement in my community that emphasizes the importance of shopping locally. I … Read more
In the annals of modern history, perhaps no two generations stand as distinctly contrasted in economic terms as the Baby Boomers and Millennials. Born in an era of post-war optimism and economic boom, Baby Boomers rode the wave of an expanding American Dream. Millennials, on the other hand, entered adulthood amidst the shadows of 9/11, … Read more
The essence of a vacation isn’t determined by lavish hotels or exotic locales, but by the experiences we garner and the memories we create.
In today’s fast-paced, digital-driven world, traditional 9-to-5 jobs are no longer the sole breadwinners. The gig economy, characterized by flexible, temporary, or freelance jobs, is burgeoning. While it offers unparalleled freedom and the allure of being your own boss, it also brings a unique set of financial challenges. How does one navigate the unpredictable waters … Read more
When it comes to financial planning, “change” is the only constant, but the incessant change in prices that we call inflation can make your dollars seem like confetti—colorful but lacking substance. Leaning on my background at Goldman Sachs and my experience as a Portfolio Manager, I’ll take you through some insightful strategies to not just … Read more
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
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