Money Management

Today’s CD rates are pretty impressive. But read on to see why stocks are a better place for your money on a long-term basis. [[{“value”:”

There’s a reason why certificates of deposit (CDs) have been such a popular choice for savers this year. Since the start of 2024, shorter-term CD rates have been sitting at or around 5%.

But as the Federal Reserve moves forward with plans to cut interest rates, CD rates are likely to start falling. Even if CD rates dip into the 4% range and stay there for quite some time, though, that’s still a pretty awesome return given the risk-free nature of CDs.

It’s true that opening a CD carries the risk of facing an early withdrawal penalty. But if you leave your money alone until your CD matures, that won’t happen. And as long as you put your money into a bank that’s FDIC-insured and limit your deposit to $250,000 (which you’re probably doing anyway), you don’t risk losing any of your cash in the event of a bank collapse.

But as impressive as today’s CD rates may be, you should know that over time, investing in stocks is likely to pay you a lot more. So before you rush to open as many CDs as you can at a top rate, understand how much more you stand to gain with a stock portfolio instead.

A return that CDs just won’t beat

A 5% return on your money from CDs might seem like a great deal — that is, until you realize that the stock market’s average annual return over the past 50 years has been 10%. And that 10% accounts for years when the stock market did well, but also years when it crashed.

What this should tell you is that if you put money into the stock market and hang onto your portfolio for many years, you’re likely to come away with an impressive return on your money.

Let’s imagine you have $10,000 you’re looking to invest. If you put it into a stock portfolio and get a 10% return each year, then in 30 years, your money could be worth almost $175,000. In 40 years, it could be worth about $452,000. You won’t get anywhere close to that with CDs, especially given that CDs typically pay a lot less interest than 5%.

How to get started investing in stocks

At this point, you may be convinced that a stock portfolio is a much better place for your money than a CD. But opening a CD is pretty easy. You shop around for the best rate and then put in an application with a bank. There’s not a ton of thought that goes into it beyond that.

With stocks, you need to be careful to choose the right investments. You want to put your money into companies that are on solid financial footing. You also want to diversify your holdings so you’re investing across a range of industries.

If the idea of researching stocks is scary or daunting, there’s an easy way to put your money to work in the stock market without having to stress or spend a ton of time. Simply choose an S&P 500 ETF (exchange-traded fund) in place of individual stocks.

The S&P 500 index is generally used as a measure of the stock market’s performance on a whole. And it’s an easy way to get instant diversification in your portfolio without having to do the legwork of researching tons of stocks. So if you’re ready to say goodbye to CDs and put your money into stocks instead, don’t hesitate to fall back on an S&P 500 ETF and let it do the heavy lifting for you.

Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR until nearly 2026

This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!

Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes.

We’re firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers.
The Ascent does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from The Ascent is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

“}]] Read More 

Everybody is looking for a great deal on their medications, and Costco can deliver. But this isn’t the only reason to choose Costco. Read on to find out more. [[{“value”:”

If you’ve ever been to your local Costco, you probably can come up with a huge laundry list of reasons to go there. It’s a party every day, there’s always something new to find, you are likely to be able to buy bulk packs of both Reese’s peanut butter cups and batteries — you know, reasons.

Everybody has their own things they love about Costco. But for me, the pharmacy was what first drew me in, and I think it’s still a solid entry point for people who have never been there before (runner up is still the bakery, I said what I said).

So, if you’ve been on the fence about giving your local Costco a whirl, let me give you a few reasons to buy your pharmaceuticals there.

1. Low everyday prices

Getting your medications at Costco can really save you a ton of money, especially if you have several drugs that you require for life, like I do. I checked the cash prices on a few that I keep in the cabinet, and boy, was that enlightening.

You can also get OTC favorites like generic Zyrtec for $11.49 per 365 tabs, generic Flonase nasal sprays for $18.99 per five sprays, or 1,000 caplets of extra-strength acetaminophen for $9.99. Most of these products keep for a year or longer, so check expiration dates, but have no fear of buying in bulk to help stretch your budget.

2. No more standing in pharmacy lines

There’s no reason to gatekeep OTC pain meds, but prescription pharmaceuticals come with all those extra hoops to jump through. You have to put in the order, go to the store, stand in the longest line known to mankind as the understaffed pharmacy slowly chews through each person. Or that’s what it’s like at the pharmacy my insurance prefers.

That’s not what it’s like at Costco. In fact, Costco has set up a system to make your pharmacy pick-ups a breeze. Costco now offers pickup lockers for your shelf-stable meds.

You simply order through the app, wait for the text to come that your meds are filled, specify that you want them placed in a locker, and you can come and pick up your stuff whenever you happen to be ready — any time the warehouse is open.

3. Pick up Fido’s meds while you’re there

Costco also sells pet medications with a prescription from your veterinarian. If you don’t have time to run to different places to get everything you need, you can get your meds and your pet’s at the same place, at the same time. Grab your statins and your dog’s flea meds while you’re at Costco using the locker system, and your life might actually be as good as it can get while out running errands.

Costco offers a huge range of pet medications, from basic antibiotics and painkillers, to flea, tick, and heartworm preventive, as well as specialty meds like insulin made especially for your cat, many at deep discounts. Take a look at these common pet meds and how they compare:

Costco can help with all your pharma needs

Costco is a great place to get all sorts of things you might need, from inflatable coolers to multipacks of underpants, but it especially shines when it comes to the pharmacy. So many people struggle with the cost of medications these days, it’s nice to know that your friendly neighborhood Costco has your back with essential medications for you, your family, and your pets.

Top credit card to use at Costco (and everywhere else!)

We love versatile credit cards that offer huge rewards everywhere, including Costco! This card is a standout among America’s favorite credit cards because it offers perhaps the easiest $200 cash bonus you could ever earn and an unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases, even when you shop at Costco.

Add on the competitive 0% interest period and it’s no wonder we awarded this card Best No Annual Fee Credit Card.

Click here to read our full review for free and apply before the $200 welcome bonus offer ends!

We’re firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers.
The Ascent does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from The Ascent is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.JPMorgan Chase is an advertising partner of The Ascent, a Motley Fool company. Kristi Waterworth has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Costco Wholesale and JPMorgan Chase. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

“}]] Read More 

Cars are more fuel efficient than ever, but not all are reliable. Read on to find out which ones are easy on your wallet for both repairs and gas. [[{“value”:”

I once bought a used Nissan Altima for just $5,000 and drove it for 10 years, racking up over 200,000 miles on the odometer. The car was exceptionally easy to maintain, with just a few minor repairs and one major fix over that period.

In addition to its low maintenance costs, the car’s low value allowed me to get cheap car insurance — a win-win for me.

Unfortunately, not all cars are as reliable as my Altima was. If you’re in the market for a car that’ll go the distance — both in fuel economy and with the fewest repairs — here are five that could save you thousands of dollars over the coming years.

These vehicles could save you thousands

Some cars have an above-average miles per gallon (MPG) rating, but the vehicle brand has less-than-stellar reliability ratings — and vice versa. So, I’ve narrowed down this list of cars based on the brand’s low maintenance and repair costs and a high combined (city and highway) MPG.

I also chose different brands for this list so there’d be a variety of vehicles (and not just Toyotas!). All of the vehicle brands on this list will cost less than $3,000 in maintenance and repairs over a six- to 10-year period, according to Consumer Reports, and they’re all more fuel efficient than the 24.4 MPG for the average car.

1. 2024 Toyota Prius LE

The latest Prius LE hybrid is far ahead of its predecessor in styling but hasn’t abandoned its fuel efficiency streak. The compact sedan gets up to a combined 57 MPG and starts at $27,950. Meanwhile, maintenance costs for Toyotas are estimated to be just $2,290 over a six- to 10-year time frame, the lowest of any automotive brand.

2. 2024 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid

Another compact sedan takes one of the leading spots on this list, thanks to the hybrid Elantra’s combined 58 MPG rating and Hyundai’s above-average reliability. The cost to maintain this car brand for up to 10 years will set you back just $2,655. You can snag a 2024 Elantra for $26,250 — far below the average price of a new car at $47,218.

3. 2025 Honda Civic Sport Hybrid

New styling and updated hybrid options for the latest Honda Civic make this compact sedan a great choice if you’re looking for efficiency and reliability. The Civic Sport Hybrid model gets up to 50 MPG combined, and Honda’s reputation for reliability pays off, with the average Honda costing just $2,580 over a six- to 10-year span. The starting price of the Civic Sport Hybrid model will cost you $28,750.

4. 2025 Lexus ES 300h

As the only luxury vehicle on this list, the Lexus ES 300h’s price tag is a bit steeper at $44,615. You’ll get more bells and whistles at that price, as well as a larger midsize sedan and an impressive combined fuel economy of up to 44 MPG. And with a Lexus, your average cost of maintenance and repairs for up to 10 years is an estimated $2,850.

5. 2024 Nissan Versa S CVT

Last but not least, is the Versa S CVT, which has a shockingly low starting price of just $18,350 and a combined MPG of 35. That mileage isn’t as impressive as that of other cars on this list, but it’s still far above average. The cost to maintain most Nissans is also low, at just $2,730 over a six- to 10-year period.

Shop for this before you buy

Saving money with a fuel-efficient vehicle that’s cheap to maintain is a smart move, but you could be throwing some of that money away if you don’t do one important thing before you buy: Shop around for the best car insurance.

Hybrid models can cost up to 7% more to insure than their gas-powered counterparts, which means it’s a good idea to do a little comparison shopping for coverage once you’re ready to buy.

Now, if you’ll excuse me, I need to see if I can convince my wife that spending money on a new car can save us money.

Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR until nearly 2026

This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!

Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes.

We’re firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers.
The Ascent does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from The Ascent is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.Chris Neiger has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

“}]] Read More 

Are you thinking about starting your own business? Read on for three low-cost business ideas that offer high potential returns. [[{“value”:”

One of the great things about businesses today is that it’s pretty easy and affordable to start one online. Given the amount of eyeballs on the internet, it makes sense that if you’re looking for a low-cost business to start, maybe one that doesn’t require a loan, then the place to start that business is online.

Here are three low-cost businesses you can start right now that offer the potential for big returns.

1. Offer AI-powered virtual assistant services

A virtual assistant (VA) is an online assistant that helps people and businesses by handling tasks that can be fairly easily outsourced, things like:

Administrative dutiesEmail managementSocial media postingScheduling

VAs are in high demand. The industry is expected to grow 4.4% annually to more than $25 billion by next year. A VA business is a good idea because there is a big need for those services. But an even better idea is an AI-powered VA business.

What is that, you ask?

Well, as you know, AI (artificial intelligence) is all the rage, what with ChatGPT, Microsoft CoPilot, and all the rest. But since this technology is so new, and can do so much, most business people don’t have much expertise in it. If you can offer proficiency in the use of AI tools like Synthesia.io or Copy.ai, you can set yourself apart. By mastering those, you can offer a range of tasks that many VAs cannot, such as video creation, customer support, marketing, and data analysis.

Your startup costs for this business would be minimal, requiring only a computer, internet connection, and subscriptions to various AI tools.

2. Start a TikTok shop

TikTok has had explosive growth in the last few years, providing an opportunity for you to sell products directly to TikTok viewers. Indeed, by starting a shop on TikTok, you would be tapping into the fastest growing social media platform. Even better: You don’t even have to sell your own products — tons of people simply sell affiliate products on the site.

To start, you need to have at least 1,000 followers on the app and a TikTok business account. Then, it’s simply a matter of identifying great products that would resonate with your desired audience. Create engaging short videos that highlight your products, link back to your store, and you’re (literally!) in business.

3. Become an online coach

If you have expertise in a particular field — be it business, yoga, counseling, investing, health, or any other — you can leverage that expertise by becoming an online coach.

Coaching has become quite popular as it offers a quick and affordable way to learn a skill or achieve a goal. Another benefit is that coaching can be conducted online via video calls, thereby allowing you to reach clients globally without the need for a physical office. You could also offer one-on-one sessions, group coaching, or even create digital courses.

To get started, choose a needed niche and target audience. Then, you can build your authority and attract clients by, for example, sharing valuable content on social media or offering free webinars. As you gain more clients, consider developing additional profit centers such as ebooks and workshops.

Any of these low-cost business ideas can be a goldmine. Not only are they in high demand, but they also offer flexibility and scalability. Each also requires minimal investment and can be started from home. So, what are you waiting for? Easy, cheap, and fun — these are three great businesses to start.

Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR until nearly 2026

This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!

Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes.

We’re firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers.
The Ascent does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from The Ascent is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Microsoft. The Motley Fool recommends the following options: long January 2026 $395 calls on Microsoft and short January 2026 $405 calls on Microsoft. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

“}]] Read More 

Despite its low prices, Aldi may not be the best place to shop. Read on to see why. [[{“value”:”

Of the various expenses in your budget, groceries are probably a big one. So if you’re looking for ways to save money on food shopping, you may be inclined to turn to Aldi.

Aldi is known for its low prices on the groceries and household essentials it stocks. Because of this, you may be eager to start shopping there more often. But here are a few reasons why Aldi shopping could backfire on you — and why you may be better off avoiding the store entirely.

1. You may not find everything you need

Although Aldi’s inventory is competitively priced, its stock can be very inconsistent. You might go to the store only to find that it’s missing a host of basic products, whether that’s everyday produce like apples or pantry staples like rice.

The problem, though, is that if Aldi doesn’t have the essentials you need and you don’t have time to head to another grocery store, you may not be able to prepare the meals you normally would. That could force you to resort to takeout — a more expensive alternative.

And even if you do have time to hit up another supermarket to finish your list, you might get frustrated by running that extra errand. That’s understandable for anyone who’s busy. The savings at Aldi may not be enough to compensate for that inconvenience.

2. You risk losing money if Aldi’s off-brands are rejected by members of your household

A big reason Aldi is able to offer such great prices is that it stocks its shelves with off-brands — not the ones most shoppers are familiar with, and not the ones you commonly see advertised.

There’s certainly nothing wrong with buying products from lesser-known brands. But if you have picky eaters at home, it could become a problem.

If you bring home Aldi products that your children refuse to touch because they’re different from what they’re used to, you risk losing money by throwing out food. If your goal in shopping at Aldi is to save money, this negates it.

3. You could spend needlessly if you’re tempted by Aldi’s “Aisle of Shame”

If you’re not familiar with the Aldi “Aisle of Shame,” it’s the store’s aisle of seasonal finds. You’ll often spot it in the middle of the store, and it’s commonly loaded with non-food items, like home decor.

The problem with this aisle is that it can easily lead to impulse shopping. Aldi does a good job of offering inexpensive seasonal goods. But if your reason for shopping at Aldi is to lower your grocery costs, and you spend an extra $20 or $30 per visit on non-essentials from the “Aisle of Shame,” you’re not doing your finances any favors. So if you tend to give in to impulse buys, you may be better off avoiding Aldi altogether.

Shopping at Aldi has the potential to save you money — but only under the right circumstances. You may want to steer clear of the store if you’re on a tight schedule that only allows you to visit one supermarket per week. And similarly, you should think about shopping elsewhere if you have choosy eaters at home and have a hard time saying no to cute finds and bargains.

Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR until nearly 2026

This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!

Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes.

We’re firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers.
The Ascent does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from The Ascent is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.Maurie Backman has positions in Apple. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Apple. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

“}]] Read More 

Discover the incredible value of this new bed at Costco — the Kirkland Signature by Stearns & Foster mattress. Here’s what you need to know. [[{“value”:”

I remember when my wife and I bought our first real “adult” bed. I had just graduated law school and our first child was a newborn. At the time, we were still sleeping on the futon I had leftover from my college days, having bought it with one of my first credit cards.

The futon was fine for its time, but for a couple of sleep-deprived adults who sometimes had a baby sleeping in the bed with them, it wouldn’t do.

I sure wish this deal at Costco for a Stearns & Foster bed was available back then.

The Kirkland Signature by Stearns & Foster bed

Costco is offering the “Kirkland Signature by Stearns & Foster 14.5” Lakeridge Mattress for $999.99. My wife and I ended up buying a Stearns & Foster, too, but even back then, we sure paid a heck of a lot more than a grand. And even so, we’ve never bought a different brand of mattress since then; they are fantastically sturdy and comfortable beds.

While this amazing price doesn’t include a boxspring, you can buy one for a bit extra. That said, it nevertheless comes with a lot: Tempurpedic memory foam, an “AirVent system,” and “IntelliCoil®.” According to the Stearns & Foster website, “IntelliCoil is a one-of-a-kind design allowing sleepers of all body types to enjoy a perfect level of all-night support.”

If you’ve ever gone mattress shopping, you know that Stearns & Foster is one of the best brands available. At 175 years old, the company has been around longer than some of the most iconic brands — Coca-Cola and Ford, to name just two. It’s been around so long because it has earned a reputation as one of the best beds available. Just this year, CNET named the Stearns & Foster Estate bed the “best traditional innerspring mattress.”

Comparing this bed to other Stearns & Foster beds

Reputation and quality are just two reasons why this deal at Costco for a Stearns & Foster bed is so amazing. When I jumped over to the iconic mattress brand’s website for comparison, the sweetness of this deal became even more apparent:

The cheapest bed on the Stearns & Foster homepage is the Estate, priced normally at $1,999.Next up is the Lux Estate, normally $2,999.And the most expensive is the Reserve, at $4,599.

So yes, this mattress deal at Costco for the Kirkland Signature Stearns & Foster mattress really is quite impressive (and it can be even more so with the right Costco credit card.) And, given that you never know when these sorts of products will sell out or otherwise disappear from Costco, it just might behoove you to jump on it — especially if that old futon has seen better days.

Top credit card to use at Costco (and everywhere else!)

We love versatile credit cards that offer huge rewards everywhere, including Costco! This card is a standout among America’s favorite credit cards because it offers perhaps the easiest $200 cash bonus you could ever earn and an unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases, even when you shop at Costco.

Add on the competitive 0% interest period and it’s no wonder we awarded this card Best No Annual Fee Credit Card.

Click here to read our full review for free and apply before the $200 welcome bonus offer ends!

We’re firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers.
The Ascent does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from The Ascent is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.JPMorgan Chase is an advertising partner of The Ascent, a Motley Fool company. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Costco Wholesale and JPMorgan Chase. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

“}]] Read More