Money Management

 The interest rate surge comes on the heels of Moody’s decision to downgrade U.S. credit, further complicating the landscape for homebuyers already struggling with affordability issues. 

Mortgage rates have surged past the 7% mark once again, adding fresh pressure to an already challenging housing market. The spike follows Moody’s recent downgrade of the U.S. credit rating, which cited growing concerns over the federal government’s rising debt burden, as reported by CNBC and Bloomberg. According to Mortgage News Daily, the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate jumped above 7%

 Read More 

 Consumer confidence is low, but business leaders aren’t panicking. What they’re seeing might surprise you — and help you rethink your financial outlook. 

Despite consumer sentiment recently sinking to near-record lows, executives from key consumer-facing industries are painting a more nuanced picture of the economy. At a recent CNBC CEO Council Summit, leaders from the auto, housing, advertising, and travel sectors shared insights that reveal surprising strengths alongside emerging caution in consumer behavior. As reported by CNBC…

 Read More 

 Starting over after a marriage ends isn’t easy, but these flexible roles can help you regain financial control and rebuild with confidence. 

Divorce can leave more than emotional scars — it often takes a serious toll on your finances, too. But starting over doesn’t mean starting from scratch. With the rise of flexible, remote work, real opportunities exist to rebuild your income, confidence, and independence on your terms. These five jobs are perfect for turning the page and taking back control of your financial future.

 Read More 

 Rising food prices have Americans stressed about affording groceries, but smart strategies can help shoppers stretch their budgets without giving up the foods they love. 

The sticker shock at grocery store checkout lanes has become all too familiar. According to a recent LendingTree survey, a staggering 88% of consumers have changed their shopping habits as inflation pushes food prices higher. For those living on fixed incomes, these price increases are particularly concerning. Fortunately, resourceful shoppers are developing effective strategies to keep food…

 Read More 

 Cybercriminals exploit weak links, but smart habits, secure tools, and quick actions can safeguard your finances from digital danger. 

Online threats are growing faster than ever, and your bank account is a prime target. Hackers use sneaky tactics to access personal data, drain funds, and vanish without a trace. But you don’t have to be a tech expert to fight back. These six simple but powerful steps can help protect your money and give you peace of mind every time you log in.

 Read More 

 This is one of the best things you can do for your health, happiness and sense of purpose in retirement. 

If volunteering in retirement sounds appealing to you, you are not alone. More than ever, workers over 50 are looking toward careers in the nonprofit world, seeking a second chance at purposeful work. In fact, according to Encore.org, more than 25 million Americans ages 50 to 70 are eager to share their skills, passions and expertise by volunteering to address social needs. Of those 25 million…

 Read More