Wealth and Wisdom: Week of August 2, 2021

The Federal Reserve walked a tightrope at its two-day meeting last week – and ultimately decided not to do anything. The Fed is concerned about a resurgence in COVID-19 cases and how it might hamper economic growth. Yet all the money the Fed and Congress have pumped into the system is now causing inflation that may prompt policymakers to tighten – possibly raising interest rates at some point. For now, however, the can has been kicked down the road.

Meanwhile, we’re seeing a surge in revenues and profits – especially among big technology companies. Apple, Alphabet (Google), and Microsoft all reported record sales and/or profits last week.

Have a great August!

Is the housing boom over?

Sales are down, price increases are slowing, and inventories are growing again. Has the housing bubble deflated? (Reading time: 3 minutes)

30% of student borrowers owe more than $30,000

How crushing student loan debt is changing our society. (Reading time: 5 minutes)

How retirees can fight inflation

Inflation is running above 5% now – and no matter how long it lasts, you’ve got to protect yourself. (Reading time: 4 minutes)

5 things that are actually getting cheaper

Even inflation surging, there are a few exceptions. (Reading time: 4 minutes)

How to set up a retirement spending plan

Follow this 7-step process to keep your expenses under control after you retire. (Reading time: 5 minutes)

Work-from-home jobs for retirees

There is work to be had these days – and much of it doesn’t require going to the office. (Reading time: 5 minutes)

What you should know about recessions

The Pandemic Recession of 2020 was the shortest in U.S. history, but its impact is still being felt. (Reading time: 8 minutes)

What have we learned?

Pandemics and other calamities can teach us a lot about ourselves – if we only take time to pay attention. (Reading time: 6 minutes)

The world’s 100 biggest companies

A graphic illustration of the world’s largest companies – and yes, most of them are still based in the U.S. (Reading time: 3 minutes)

Mike’s Pro Tip of the Week

Do you ever have trouble splitting a restaurant bill with another couple? Expenses with a roommate? How about the cost of a vacation among several families? There’s an app for that – several in fact – that might make the job a lot easier. See what’s available for your smartphone, what they do, and much (if anything) they cost.

WORDS TO THE WISE

“Though I’m grateful for the blessings of wealth, it hasn’t changed who I am. My feet are still on the ground. I’m just wearing better shoes.”
Oprah Winfrey

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