Markets and Business News Review

MPs slam ‘disrespectful’ obstruction by chair of UK financial ombudsman

Sun, 13 Jul 2025 19:01:02 -0400

Commons Treasury select committee frustrated by Zahida Manzoor’s refusal at hearing to explain sacking of FOS chief

Rare Pokémon Cards Worth More Than $100,000 Stolen From Shop

Johnny Diaz — Sun, 13 Jul 2025 15:59:27 -0400

A burglar used a hammer to smash open the door of a Massachusetts shop and stole rare Pokémon cards and vintage box sets, a store owner said.

Tariffs on Brazil Could Leave Coffee Drinkers With a Headache

Emmett Lindner, Julie Creswell and Kevin Draper — Sun, 13 Jul 2025 13:30:42 -0400

Trump’s pledge to place a 50 percent tariff on all imports from the South American nation will drive up the prices of coffee — and orange juice.

How Trump’s Latest Tariff Threat Risks Deeper Damage to Europe’s Economy

Liz Alderman and Melissa Eddy — Sun, 13 Jul 2025 12:57:56 -0400

Economists had already downgraded growth for the European Union, and the new duties would hit industries there especially hard. Companies are looking for ways to blunt the impact.

With $217 Million in Ticket Sales, ‘Superman’ Helps Save Warner Bros., Too

Brooks Barnes — Sun, 13 Jul 2025 12:19:33 -0400

The film is the latest part of a startling turnaround for the studio, which has now released five consecutive hits.

To Sidestep Trump Tariffs, Asian Nations Seek New Trade Partners

Lydia DePillis — Sun, 13 Jul 2025 11:18:43 -0400

Most nations are still negotiating in hopes of avoiding punitive import taxes. At the same time, they’re looking for trading partners as a way around the United States.

2 Covered Call ETFs Delivering Big Passive Income Today

Rich Duprey — Sun, 13 Jul 2025 10:56:38 -0400

Key Points in This Article:

Covered call ETFs generate high yields by selling call options on stock portfolios, appealing to income-focused investors.
These ETFs offer monthly distributions and downside protection, though they may limit upside in strong market rallies.
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In today’s low-yield environment, investors seeking consistent passive income are turning to covered call exchange-traded funds (ETFs). These innovative funds combine the stability of owning a diversified portfolio of stocks with the income-generating power of selling call options, offering higher yields than traditional dividend stocks.

By writing call options on their holdings, these ETFs collect premiums, boosting monthly distributions while providing some downside protection in volatile markets. This strategy appeals to retirees and income-focused investors who prioritize steady cash flow over aggressive capital growth.

While covered call ETFs may cap upside potential during strong market rallies, their ability to deliver double-digit yields makes them a compelling choice for those seeking reliable income. With many ETFs employing this strategy, two stand out for their high yields, tax efficiency, and strong performance, offering investors a robust way to enhance portfolio income in today’s market.

JPMorgan Equity Premium Income ETF (JEPI)

The JPMorgan Equity Premium Income ETF (NYSEARCA:JEPI) is a top-tier option for investors seeking substantial passive income through a covered call strategy. JEPI holds a portfolio of low-volatility, large-cap U.S. stocks, primarily from the S&P 500, and allocates up to 15% of its assets to equity-linked notes (ELNs), which replicate the payoff of a covered call strategy on the S&P 500.

This approach delivers an impressive 8.4% distribution yield, paid monthly, ideal for retirees and income-focused investors. In 2024, JEPI’s active management achieved a 10.2% annualized return over three years, outperforming many peers in its category. Its expense ratio of 0.35% remains competitive, though distributions are taxed as ordinary income, which may reduce tax efficiency for some investors.

JEPI’s focus on defensive, high-quality stocks minimizes volatility, and the ELN structure allows participation in some market upside, unlike traditional covered call ETFs that cap gains more strictly. With $41 billion in assets under management, JEPI offers significant liquidity and scale, ensuring ease of trading.

As market volatility continues to drive higher option premiums, JEPI’s disciplined strategy and diversified holdings position it to deliver consistent, high-yield income. For investors seeking a balance of steady cash flow and modest growth potential, JEPI stands out as a reliable choice in the covered call ETF space, particularly in uncertain economic climates.

NEOS S&P 500 High Income ETF (SPYI)

The NEOS S&P 500 High Income ETF (CBOE:SPYI) is a standout for investors seeking high-yield passive income with enhanced tax efficiency. SPYI holds individual S&P 500 stocks and sells index call options, generating a robust 12.1% distribution yield, paid monthly.

By using Section 1256 contracts, SPYI offers a tax-advantaged 60/40 split (60% long-term, 40% short-term capital gains), which is a significant benefit compared to ETFs that distribute only ordinary income. SPYI also uses active tax-loss harvesting, and some distributions are classified as return of capital, which lowers immediate tax liability by reducing the investment’s cost basis.

Launched in August 2022, SPYI has delivered a 42.8% cumulative return, surpassing the CBOE S&P 500 BuyWrite Index. Its 0.68% expense ratio is slightly higher but justified by its superior performance and tax efficiency. SPYI’s strategy balances high income with some capital appreciation, making it ideal for volatile markets. Its active management optimizes option selection to maximize premiums while retaining exposure to S&P 500 upside.

As AI-driven trading and market uncertainty boost demand for income strategies, SPYI’s high yield, tax advantages, and strong returns make it a compelling choice. With growing assets and a focus on investor-friendly tax treatment, SPYI appeals to those diversifying portfolios with reliable, high-income ETFs, offering a powerful tool for passive income generation in today’s dynamic market environment.

The post 2 Covered Call ETFs Delivering Big Passive Income Today appeared first on 24/7 Wall St..

Forget NVDA: These 2 AI Stocks Have 10x Potential and Pay Dividends

Rich Duprey — Sun, 13 Jul 2025 10:21:11 -0400

Key Points in This Article:

AI’s transformative impact across industries drives demand for chips, with Nvidia leading due to its GPU dominance.
NVDA’s high valuation and lack of meaningful dividends prompt exploration of alternative AI stocks with income potential.
Two AI stocks offer dividends and 10x growth potential, appealing to investors seeking growth and income.
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A Better Path to Growth and Profits

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing industries, from healthcare to autonomous vehicles, driving unprecedented demand for advanced chips and infrastructure. Nvidia (NASDAQ:NVDA) has dominated the AI narrative, with its GPUs powering machine learning and data centers, delivering staggering returns for investors. Its stock has soared, fueled by AI’s explosive growth, making it a darling of Wall Street.

However, NVDA’s valuation is sky-high, and it offers a negligible dividend of $0.04 per share annually that yields just 0.02%. It leaves income-focused investors wanting more. While NVDA remains a powerhouse, its lack of meaningful dividends and lofty price-to-earnings ratio prompts a search for alternatives.

Enter two under-the-radar AI stocks that not only ride the AI wave but also pay dividends, offering a rare blend of growth and income. While NVDA has great potential to generate exceptional returns for investors, these two AI stocks pay dividends and have the potential to 10x in value, making them compelling picks for savvy investors.

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing (TSM)

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing (NYSE:TSM) is the world’s leading semiconductor foundry, producing chips for AI leaders like Nvidia, Advanced Micro Devices (NASDAQ:AMD), and Apple (NASDAQ:AAPL).

TSM’s advanced manufacturing processes, including 3 nanometer (nm) and 2nm technologies, make it indispensable to the AI ecosystem, as its chips power cutting-edge AI models and data centers.

In 2024, TSM reported a 30% year-over-year revenue increase to $90 billion, driven by soaring AI chip demand. Revenue rose another 35% in Q1, indicating that demand is accelerating. Its global expansion, with new fabrication plants in the U.S., Japan, and Europe, addresses geopolitical risks and enhances production capacity to meet growing needs.

TSM’s forward P/E ratio of around 21, lower than NVDA’s 29, suggests substantial room for valuation growth. The company offers a dividend yield of approximately 1.2%, supported by strong, consistent cash flows and a shareholder-friendly policy.

Analysts project AI chip demand to grow at a 28% to 38% CAGR through 2030, and TSM’s unmatched scale and technological leadership position it to capture a significant share of this market. Furthermore, TSM’s investments in R&D ensure it stays ahead in next-generation chip technologies, reinforcing its long-term growth potential.

For investors seeking AI exposure with income stability, Taiwan Semiconductor’s combination of innovation, global reach, and dividends makes it a standout choice with the potential for 10x returns.

Broadcom (AVGO)

Broadcom (NASDAQ:AVGO) is a semiconductor and software powerhouse, critical to AI infrastructure through its high-performance networking chips and enterprise software solutions. Its chips enable the high-speed connectivity required for AI workloads in data centers, while its acquisition of VMware has strengthened its AI software offerings.

In 2024, Broadcom’s AI-related revenue jumped 220%, fueled by demand for custom silicon and networking solutions from hyperscalers like Google and Meta Platforms (NASDAQ:META). Trading at a forward P/E of around 33, Broadcom carries a premium, but it is worth it considering its long-term growth prospects.

Its dividend yield of 1.3% is robust, backed by a decade of consistent dividend increases — averaging a compound growth rate of 34% annually — making it a favorite among income investors.

Broadcom’s diversified portfolio, spanning semiconductors and software, provides resilience and multiple revenue streams in the AI-driven market. Industry forecasts estimate AI infrastructure spending will surpass $6 trillion by 2030, and Broadcom’s strategic partnerships and innovation pipeline position it to capitalize on this trend. Its focus on custom AI accelerators and software integration enhances its competitive edge in the enterprise AI space.

For investors seeking explosive AI-driven growth with the stability of dividends, Broadcom offers a compelling opportunity with significant upside potential, potentially delivering 10x returns over the long term.

The post Forget NVDA: These 2 AI Stocks Have 10x Potential and Pay Dividends appeared first on 24/7 Wall St..

People Don’t Want To Invest In This Company, But It Has A Great Stock

Douglas A. McIntyre — Sun, 13 Jul 2025 10:04:50 -0400

Altria (NYSE: MO) makes some of the world’s most dangerous products. Its stock has a yield of 7% and its shares have risen 21% in the last year, while the S&P 500 is 11% higher.

Key Points

Altria Makes Cigarettes Which Kill Large Numbers Of People
It Is One Of The Stock Market’s Few Dividend Kings
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Altria makes cigarettes. They are the leading cause of preventable death in the US and kill about 480,000 Americans each year.

Altria has solid earnings, an ironclad balance sheet, and an almost unprecedented run of dividend payments. In 2024, Altria’s revenue fell 2% to $24 billion. However, earnings rose 42% to $6.54 a share. At the end of 2024, Altria had $11.3 billion of cash and cash equivalents and long-term investments. It also raised its 2025 guidance. And it has raised its dividend every year for the last 55 years. That qualifies it as a Dividend King.

Almost all of Altria’s revenue comes from cigarettes. There is a theory that many investors shy away from buying Altria stock for that reason, but that the dividend is a huge incentive.

Almost all of Altria’s cigarette sales are from the Marlboro brand. The brand was first marketed in 1924 and targeted toward women. In the 1950s, the target changed to men.

There is another reason to invest in Altria. That is the potential danger to the global economy. People won’t cut back on cigarette smoking in most cases. Altria’s dividend won’t go away.

The stock market has turned dangerous, according to people who think it has hit a top. President Trump has threatened to put high tariffs on imports from several large nations, which could run up US inflation. His latest threat is a tariff level of 30% on Mexican imports. Mexico is second only to Canada in terms of trade dollars.

An increase in tariffs and the effects on inflation mean American consumers’ buying power will be hit. That, in turn, threatens GDP. Altria, under those circumstances, may be the best stock to own. That is, if people can ignore its business.

The post People Don’t Want To Invest In This Company, But It Has A Great Stock appeared first on 24/7 Wall St..

Amazon Prime Creates Online Home Run

Douglas A. McIntyre — Sun, 13 Jul 2025 09:13:48 -0400

Amazon Prime Day, the four-day period during which the e-commerce company offers special deals and signs up new Prime members, helped lift total online sales across America by 30.3% for the period to $24.1 billion. The number topped forecasts by Adobe, which tracks online purchases. Bloomberg pointed out that this likely means that other huge online businesses like Walmart.com also did well.

Key Points

The Success Of Amazon Prime Day May Reflect The Rest Of The Industry
The Prime Day Data May Not Be Accurate
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Online shopping firm Numerator put the average spend per item at $53.34. Many people ordered more than one item, so the average order was $156.37. Not all order sizes, however, were entirely impressive. Fifteen percent of all people who bought online made orders of under $10. Another 22% made orders under $20.

Amazon’s (NASDAQ: AMZN) announcement about Prime Day was less detailed. It reported “Amazon Prime Day 2025 delivers record sales and savings in an expanded four-day shopping event.” Customers, it said, saved billions of dollars.

What none of the data shows is whether people bought items during Prime Day that they would have bought anyway. Amazon’s North America online sales were $92.9 billion in the most recent quarter. Amazon does not break that out by day. This quarterly number was an increase of less than 8% from the year before. So, the Prime Day increase was well above the growth rate for the last quarter.

Other retailers use Prime Day to increase their sales. Walmart (NYSE: WMT) has its own “Prime Day” during which it sells hundreds of thousands of items at discounts. The challenge for an analysis of the big retailer’s figures is that Walmart does not offer a dollar figure for its revenue during the period.

Special online sales increases are a way for these retailers to create bragging rights. On the other hand, a 30.3% increase is larger than Amazon has had during the balance of the year.

The post Amazon Prime Creates Online Home Run appeared first on 24/7 Wall St..

2 High-Yield Dividend Stocks to Buy Today for Passive Income

Rich Duprey — Sun, 13 Jul 2025 08:05:55 -0400

Key Points in This Article:

Dividend stocks provide steady income and portfolio stability, ideal for retirees or passive income seekers, with reliable cash flow for reinvestment or supplementation.
Despite the S&P 500’s low 1.2% average dividend yield due to high stock valuations, select stocks offer attractive high yields with growth potential.
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Dividend stocks are the financial world’s equivalent of a trusty old friend who always brings the good coffee — reliable, comforting, and quietly making your day better. They churn out steady cash flow, ideal for reinvesting to compound wealth or padding your income, especially for retirees or anyone dreaming of a passive-income lifestyle.

Unlike those rollercoaster growth stocks that can leave you dizzy, dividend payers tend to stand firm during market storms, offering stability through consistent payouts. But here’s the kicker: the S&P 500’s dividend yield is languishing at a near-record low of 1.2%. Why? The index’s relentless price gains have outpaced dividend growth, leaving the yield looking like it missed the memo on the market’s party.

Still, don’t despair. Hidden within the benchmark index are high-yield treasures delivering juicy dividends and growth potential that make them irresistible for income-focused investors.

Chevron (CVX)

Chevron (NYSE:CVX) is one of the world’s leading integrated energy companies and a dividend powerhouse that offers a compelling 4.4% yield — well above the S&P 500’s skimpy 1.2%. With an annual dividend of $6.84 per share and a remarkable 37-year streak of dividend increases, Chevron is a Dividend Aristocrat, showcasing unwavering commitment to shareholders.

In 2024, the company generated adjusted earnings of $10.05 per share, supporting a conservative payout ratio of approximately 53%, which signals dividend sustainability even in volatile energy markets.

Risks persist — oil price fluctuations and regulatory pressures on fossil fuels could challenge profitability — but Chevron’s diversified operations, spanning upstream exploration, downstream refining, and a growing renewable energy portfolio, provide resilience.

With a market cap of around $271 billion and shares up 7% year-to-date, Chevron remains attractively valued for its yield and stability. The company’s strategic moves, like expanding its low-carbon ventures — such as hydrogen and carbon capture — and boosting production in the Permian Basin, position it for long-term growth.

Its strong balance sheet, with a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.2, further bolsters confidence. Chevron’s ability to generate robust free cash flow — $15 billion in 2024 — supports both dividend payments and share repurchasing, enhancing shareholder value. For investors seeking high yield and exposure to a blue-chip energy giant, Chevron’s track record and adaptability make it a standout choice.

VICI Properties (VICI)

Real estate investment trust (REIT) VICI Properties (NYSE:VICI) specializes in experiential properties like casinos, hotels, and entertainment venues, delivering a tantalizing 5.3% dividend yield paired with an impressive 9% compound annual dividend growth rate since 2018.

This REIT owns iconic assets like Caesars Palace and MGM Grand, leased to top-tier operators under long-term, triple-net agreements. These 40-year contracts shift responsibilities for taxes, insurance, and maintenance to tenants, ensuring stable and predictable cash flows. Many leases also include rent escalators, further bolstering revenue growth even during economic downturns.

VICI proved its mettle through its ability to raise dividends consistently, including during the COVID-19 pandemic when many companies faltered. In 2025, its stock has risen 14% year-to-date and 21% over the past 12 months, trading just 2% below its 52-week high.

With a $35.3 billion market cap and trailing earnings of $2.56 per share, VICI’s dividend payout is secure. While its focus on gaming and hospitality introduces some economic sensitivity — casinos can face challenges in recessions — its blue-chip tenants and diversified portfolio mitigate these risks.

While its focus on gaming and hospitality introduces some economic sensitivity — casinos can face challenges in recessions — its blue-chip tenants and diversified portfolio mitigate these risks. Strategic moves, like its partnership with Great Wolf Resorts, where it provides financing for the development of new Great Wolf Lodge resorts, expand VICI’s reach into family entertainment, enhancing growth prospects.

For investors seeking high-yield dividends with stability and growth potential, VICI Properties stands out as a compelling choice in the REIT sector.

The post 2 High-Yield Dividend Stocks to Buy Today for Passive Income appeared first on 24/7 Wall St..

A more intelligent approach to AI regulation

Sun, 13 Jul 2025 06:00:07 -0400

Legislators should focus on mitigating specific harms rather than anticipating broader concerns

The Future of Weather Prediction Is Here. Maybe.

Tim Fernholz and Jason Henry — Sun, 13 Jul 2025 05:00:42 -0400

Thanks to A.I., companies like WindBorne hope to usher in a golden age of forecasting. But they rely in part on government data — and the agency that provides it is in turmoil.

Why the U.S. Is Way Behind China in Making Drones for War

Farah Stockman — Sun, 13 Jul 2025 05:00:25 -0400

A four-day test in the Alaska wilderness shows how far the U.S. military and American drone companies lag behind China in the technology.

Factories Were Pushed Out of Cities. Their Return Could Revive Downtowns.

Linda Baker and Matt Roth — Sun, 13 Jul 2025 05:00:13 -0400

Changes in zoning rules have allowed small manufacturers to return to the districts and neighborhoods they began leaving a century ago.

Britain takes aim at office bullies and cover-ups

Sun, 13 Jul 2025 00:00:15 -0400

Critics bemoan ‘mission creep’ as regulator expands rules on harassment

Manufacturers plead for US tariff clarity before copper stockpiles dwindle

Sun, 13 Jul 2025 00:00:15 -0400

Companies await details on whether 50% levy will apply to all products containing the metal

Crypto companies race to get banking foothold in US

Sun, 13 Jul 2025 00:00:05 -0400

Appetite to integrate into financial system driven by bullishness over Trump’s regulatory regime

Ex-Sequoia partner closes in on $400mn European tech fund

Sun, 13 Jul 2025 00:00:05 -0400

Matt Miller, who left the firm after a boardroom battle at Klarna, raises money to become a solo venture investor

Andrew Kassoy, 55, Dies; Saw Capitalism as a Force for Social Good

Jeré Longman — Sat, 12 Jul 2025 23:05:23 -0400

He was a founder of B Lab, a nonprofit network whose lofty mission is “transforming the global economy to benefit all people, communities and the planet.”

U.S. Cities Where Rent Eats All Your Income

Drew Wood — Sat, 12 Jul 2025 21:02:07 -0400

Renting in America is one of the most severe financial burdens facing households today. According to Zillow, the average rent for all property types and sizes as of July 10, 2025 is now $2,100 a month. Millions of Americans are paying far more than the recommended 30% of their income for housing, cutting them short in other inflation-slammed areas like healthcare and educational expenses. This report takes a closer look at where rent prices are highest and the economic forces behind them.

Key Points

Rent is skyrocketing in some cities across the U.S. Renters who have options to live in other places need to consider whether the opportunity cost of living in high-rent cities is too high.
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What’s Fueling the Crisis?

Several core factors contribute to the nation’s housing woes:

Supply Shortage: There simply aren’t enough units being built to meet demand—especially at affordable price points. Developers often focus on luxury apartments because of the higher profit margins, leaving a gap in workforce and low-income housing.
Population Growth: Cities in the Sun Belt and tech hubs across the country continue to attract new residents, which increases demand and competition for a limited housing stock.
Wage Stagnation: While rents have risen steadily, incomes have not kept pace. Many workers find themselves priced out of their own neighborhoods, even if they have full-time jobs.
Policy Gaps: In many areas, rent control is limited or nonexistent. Affordable housing programs are underfunded, and zoning laws often prevent higher-density housing that could increase supply.

A National Snapshot

When considering all types of rental properties, the national average rent stands at $2,100 per month. Though rents have largely plateaued over the past year, the situation remains dire for a large portion of the population. According to Harvard’s Joint Center for Housing Studies, half of all renters in the U.S. are now considered “cost-burdened,” meaning they spend more than 30% of their income on housing. Even more alarming, one in four renters is spending over 50% of their income on rent alone. These levels mark some of the highest housing burdens ever recorded. For the lowest-income households, there are only 35 affordable and available homes for every 100 renters. In total, the U.S. faces a shortfall of approximately 7.1 million homes that are needed to meet demand from extremely low-income renters. Without substantial investment and structural reform, these figures are unlikely to improve.

Cities Where Rent Hits Hardest

While high rents are a national issue, they’re most acute in certain urban markets. These cities not only have higher-than-average rent prices, but also intense competition, low housing supply, and unique local factors driving the crisis. Here are the top 10, according to a recent study by SmartAsset:

10. Naples, FL

Average rent: $2,912
% of national average: 138.7%

Naples, Florida, has emerged as one of the most expensive rental markets in the country, with rents far exceeding the national average. The city’s popularity among retirees and affluent seasonal residents has driven up demand for housing, resulting in limited supply and soaring prices. The combination of luxury developments, a booming tourism industry, and a limited rental inventory has made affordability a growing concern for locals.

9. Miami, FL

Average rent: $3,019
% of national average: 143.8%

Miami’s vibrant culture, international appeal, and status as a gateway city have kept its rental market among the priciest in the nation. The influx of new residents, especially from other states and countries, has intensified competition for apartments, pushing prices even higher. For working families and young professionals, the city’s rental costs can be a major financial burden, often forcing tough choices about where and how to live.

8. San Diego, CA

Average rent: $3,025
% of national average: 144.0%

San Diego’s coastal location and strong job market have made it a magnet for renters, but also one of the most expensive cities for housing. The city’s average rent is significantly higher than the national average, and limited new construction has kept supply tight. The high cost of living has become a defining feature of life in San Diego, particularly for those not earning high salaries.

7. Chula Vista, CA

Average rent: $3,126
% of national average: 148.9%

Chula Vista, just south of San Diego, has seen its rental market heat up as more people seek relatively affordable options near the coast. However, rising demand has pushed average rents close to those in San Diego itself. The city’s rapid growth and limited housing stock have contributed to a challenging environment for renters, especially those on moderate incomes. Many local families are facing tough choices about whether they can even afford to continue living in the city.

6. Jersey City, NJ

Average rent: $3,129
% of national average: 149.0%

Jersey City has long been an attractive alternative to Manhattan, but its rental prices now rival those of New York City. With its proximity to major employment centers and a surge in luxury apartment developments, the average rent in Jersey City has soared. The city’s rapid transformation has benefited some, but for many renters, the high cost of living poses ongoing challenges.

5. San Jose, CA

Average rent: $3,131
% of national average: 149.1%

San Jose, at the heart of Silicon Valley, remains one of the most expensive rental markets in the country. The tech industry’s high salaries have driven up demand for housing, but for those not in the tech sector, the cost of rent can be overwhelming. The city’s affordability crisis is a major concern for both longtime locals and newcomers alike.

4. Irvine, CA

Average rent: $3,306
% of national average: 157.4%

Irvine’s master-planned communities and reputation for safety and quality schools have made it a desirable place to live, but also one of the costliest. Limited rental inventory and strong demand have kept prices elevated, making affordability a persistent issue for residents.

3. San Francisco, CA

Average rent: $3,368
% of national average: 160.4%

San Francisco’s rental market has long been notorious for its sky-high prices, and 2025 is no exception. Despite some recent moderation, the city’s average rent remains well above the national average. Many residents are forced to spend a large share of their income on housing, often living with roommates or in smaller spaces to make ends meet. The city’s affordability challenges are compounded by a limited supply of new housing and ongoing demand from high-income earners.

2. New York, NY

Average rent: $3,489
% of national average: 166.1%

New York City continues to be one of the most expensive places to rent in the United States. With average rents near the top of the national rankings, many New Yorkers devote a significant portion of their income to housing. The city’s vast rental market offers a range of options, but affordability remains a major concern, especially for those in lower- and middle-income brackets. The high cost of rent shapes nearly every aspect of life in the city, from where people live to how they spend their time and money. Adding to the frustration is the widespread use of brokers—who often charge steep fees—and the common practice of bidding up rent, with final lease prices frequently far exceeding the advertised rate.

1. Boston, MA

Average rent: $3,495
% of national average: 166.4%

Boston’s historic neighborhoods and world-class universities have made it a highly desirable place to live, but also one of the priciest. The city’s average rent is the highest in the country as of July 2025, putting enormous pressure on renters. Many residents, especially students and young professionals, find themselves spending a large share of their income on housing, often at the expense of other necessities. The ongoing affordability crisis has sparked debates about housing policy and the need for more affordable options in the city.

Navigating the Pressure

For individual renters, the situation is difficult but not without options. Many are choosing to live with roommates, relocate to more affordable suburbs, or negotiate lease renewals in hopes of locking in better terms. Some may qualify for income-based housing programs, though waiting lists are often long.

Policy solutions are also on the table. Cities and states can expand the supply of affordable housing by loosening zoning restrictions, offering tax credits for low-income housing developments, and increasing funding for rental assistance. Strengthening tenant protections—such as limits on rent hikes and stronger eviction safeguards—can also help keep people housed. Until these issues are addressed at both local and national levels, housing will remain out of reach for too many families.

The post U.S. Cities Where Rent Eats All Your Income appeared first on 24/7 Wall St..

Air India Plane Crash Report Says Fuel to Engines Was Cut Off

Mujib Mashal, Suhasini Raj and Niraj Chokshi — Sat, 12 Jul 2025 19:45:33 -0400

A focus on the Boeing 787’s fuel switches in a preliminary assessment raised questions about the pilots’ actions, but much is still unknown about Flight 171.

After Months of Negotiations, Trump Imposes More Tariffs on Mexico

Alan Rappeport — Sat, 12 Jul 2025 16:29:13 -0400

The tariffs are likely to inflame tensions with one of the largest U.S. trading partners.

I’ve Had My Capital One Card for Years – What’s the Best Unlimited 2% Cash Back Card to Replace It?

David Beren — Sat, 12 Jul 2025 15:13:16 -0400

In the world of cash-back credit cards, there is no shortage of cards trying to claim the best benefits for most customers. Capital One, Chase, U.S. Bank, American Express, and Bank of America are just a few of the names in this space trying to earn a spot in your wallet.

Key Points

For this Redditor, switching to a 2% flat-rate, unlimited cash back credit card is the best move.
While 2% might not sound like much compared to 1.5%, the savings can be substantial, depending on your spending.
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One Redditor, like the rest of us, is understandably looking to make sure they have the best possible card in their wallet. Posting in r/CreditCards, the Redditor is currently using their Capital One Quicksilver card, as they have for the last 5 years, but now wonders if there is something better than a flat 1.5% cash back.

New Card Criteria

With the Capital One card already in the Redditor’s wallet, they are looking to play the field and see what else is out there. The hope is that they can find something that offers more benefits without requiring the use of multiple cards.

The original poster makes it clear that they don’t want to bother with multiple cards, where you have one card for gas, another for groceries, etc. In other words, the Redditor wants a better one-size-fits-all card that rewards them more than the Quicksilver card currently does.

Switching to 2% Flat Rate

Given the Redditor’s criteria that they have laid out, the very best action they can take is to switch to a different card that offers a 2% flat rate. While 2% might not sound like a huge increase in benefits compared to the 1.5% return on the Capital One Quicksilver Card, there are savings that will add up over time.

Let’s assume the Redditor spends an average of $2,000 per month on credit, with a 1.5% card, they are earning $30 monthly. On a 2% flat-rate card, it’s now $40 monthly, which means they are earning an extra $120 over the course of a year due to the additional 0.5% cashback difference.

The Best 2% Flat-Rate Cards

Fidelity

Right away in the comments, the Fidelity Rewards Visa Signature card appears as one of the best alternatives to the Capital One Quicksilver. As the owner of this card, I can personally attest to how I have transitioned away from the Capital One Quicksilver card, allowing me to make a resounding recommendation for this card.

With unlimited 2% cash back on every purchase, there are no caps or category restrictions, which is precisely what the Redditor is hoping to avoid. You also get auto rental coverage for up to $75,000, as well as a $100 Global Entry or TSA PreCheck benefit. Of course, no annual fees and no foreign transaction fees, which makes this card a fantastic choice.

When you consider that Fidelity has some of the best customer service in the financial world, it just solidifies why this is arguably the best choice the Redditor can switch to.

Citibank

Another popular recommendation in the comment section of this post, and a generally great recommendation overall, is the Citi Double Cash card. While you do earn 2% with this card, it does come with a bit of a caveat. The Citibank card earns 1% cash back on every purchase, plus an additional 1% back on every subsequent payment. In other words, to earn a solid 2% cash back every month on every purchase, you would have to pay off the balance in full every month.

If this caveat isn’t a bother to you, you can also earn 5% cash back on any hotel, car rental, and attractions booked through the Citi Travel Portal. However, the Citibank card also has a foreign transaction fee of 3%, which again gives the Fidelity card the edge overall.

Wells Fargo Active Cash

If the Redditor banks at Wells Fargo, the Wells Fargo Active Cash card is another standout choice. There are no annual fees, but this card also has a 3% foreign transaction fee, so another point for the Fidelity card as the big winner.

The Active Cash card does offer up to $600 of cell phone protection if purchased with the card. This includes protection against damage or theft, which is a significant benefit for cardholders. Like Fidelity, you also get auto rental protection, as well as personalized deals from merchants through My Wells Fargo Deals.

However, these benefits from Wells Fargo and Citibank just aren’t enough to top the Fidelity Visa as the best choice for this Redditor in the future.

The post I’ve Had My Capital One Card for Years – What’s the Best Unlimited 2% Cash Back Card to Replace It? appeared first on 24/7 Wall St..

It’s YouTube vs. Netflix as the Streaming Wars Come Down to 2

John Koblin — Sat, 12 Jul 2025 14:29:17 -0400

The two giant video companies have far different strategies, but the same goal: controlling your TV set.

The Danger of a Stock Market Melt-Up

Jeff Sommer — Sat, 12 Jul 2025 13:33:56 -0400

Traders have repeatedly shrugged off President Trump’s disruptive tariff wars and fiscal policy, pushing U.S. stock prices back into expensive territory, our columnist says.

Trump Escalates Tariff Threats, Showing Little Interest in New Trade Deals

Ana Swanson — Sat, 12 Jul 2025 11:48:00 -0400

The president’s supporters portray him as a top dealmaker. But, at least for now, far more trading partners have gotten stiff tariffs than trade deals.

UnitedHealth’s Campaign to Quiet Critics

David Enrich — Sat, 12 Jul 2025 11:33:42 -0400

The company has invoked the murder of an executive last year to complain about coverage in news outlets, on streaming services and on social media.

Beyond Meat Should Close

Douglas A. McIntyre — Sat, 12 Jul 2025 11:14:27 -0400

When Beyond Meat (NASDAQ: BYND) went public, there was a broad belief that people wanted meatless meat. It was healthier than meat. It was better for the environment. Beef cattle give off huge amounts of methane. McDonald’s even partnered with Beyond Meat to create a McPlant sandwich.

Key Points

People Don’t Want Meatless Meat
Beyond Meat’s Stock Has Collapsed
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Beyond Meat went public on May 2, 2019. The shares were priced at $25. The stock rose 166% on the first day of trading. That broke a record which had lasted almost two decades.

In the last five years, Beyond Meat’s stock is down 97%. The S&P 500 is 97% higher. Beyond Meat is one of those companies that should close. Its business model is a failure

Beyond Meat encountered several hurdles. Unlike hamburger meat, it was not found in every grocery store and supermarket in America. In other words, many people who wanted it had to go out of their way.

Beyond Meat was expensive. As CNBC reported in 2021, “Big meat manufacturers have been producing animal meat products for years at a large scale and keeping prices low. Plant-based companies don’t have the same economies of scale.” Beyond Meat tried to control its expenses when demand faltered. In 2022, its COO and CFO left. The company cut 20% of its staff.

The lack of demand has shown up in Beyond Meat’s numbers. The company continues to shrink. Revenue in the most recent quarter dropped 9% from the same period ago to a tiny $69 million. Beyond Meat posted a net loss of $53 million, compared to a loss of $54 million.

Beyond Meat’s balance sheet is a mess. It has $1,142,459 in convertible senior notes, net, at the end of the period. The company’s future seems to be based on how much it can reduce expenses and not whether people want its products.

The post Beyond Meat Should Close appeared first on 24/7 Wall St..

We want to quietly set up a trust for our daughter without her knowing until she’s 30 – what’s the best way to do that?

Rich Duprey — Sat, 12 Jul 2025 10:04:06 -0400

Key Points in This Article:

A trust is a legal tool to manage assets for a beneficiary, like a child, offering privacy, control, and potential tax benefits, but setup and maintenance costs can be high, and complexity requires professional guidance.
Keeping a trust secret until a child is 30 promotes independence but may risk unpreparedness, making a financial advisor essential for tailoring the trust to specific family goals.
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Introduction to Trusts

A trust is a legal arrangement where assets are managed by a trustee for the benefit of a beneficiary. They are popular estate planning tools to ensure financial security, control asset distribution, and potentially reduce taxes.

Benefits include privacy, flexibility in asset management, and protection from creditors or mismanagement by beneficiaries. However, trusts can be complex, with high setup and maintenance costs, and require careful legal structuring to avoid pitfalls like mismanagement or unintended tax consequences.

For parents, a trust can provide peace of mind, ensuring their child’s future without spoiling them prematurely. Whether to keep secret the decision to set up a trust will add complexity but may foster independence. Consulting a financial advisor or estate planning attorney is crucial for tailoring a trust to specific goals.

The Situation

That is the decision facing a Redditor on the r/fatFIRE subreddit. He is planning for his newborn daughter’s financial future while building wealth for himself and his spouse.

At 34 and 32 years old, respectively, and a combined household income of $700,000 pre-tax — giving him a $2.5 million net worth — he is on a trajectory toward financial independence. Their goal is to reach a “FIRE” (Financial Independence, Retire Early) net worth of $3 million, with an ambitious “Fat FIRE” target of $8 million by age 45.

They are considering a second child and aim to establish a trust for their daughter, kept secret until she’s 30, to secure her future and preserve generational wealth. The Redditor, though, finds trust literature to be overwhelming and wonders when a trust is worthwhile, the best type to set up, and any potential pitfalls.

Actionable Steps to Establish a Secret Trust

Now, I’m not a financial advisor or a tax professional, so these are only my opinions, but there are specific steps the Redditor can take to minimize any headaches associated with this admittedly complex topic.

Engage an Estate Planning Attorney. Hire a law firm specializing in trusts to navigate complex legal and tax implications. They can recommend a trust structure, such as a revocable living trust for flexibility or an irrevocable trust for tax benefits and asset protection. Given the Redditor’s $2.5 million net worth, a trust is viable now, as even modest assets can justify its setup for long-term wealth preservation.
Choose the Right Trust. For the Redditor’s goals, two trust types stand out: a discretionary trust and a Crummey Trust. A discretionary trust allows the trustee to control distributions based on the daughter’s needs or milestones (such as education needs or based on age), aligning with the secrecy goal by delaying access. Alternatively, a Crummey Trust is ideal for tax-efficient gifting. It allows the Redditor to contribute up to $19,000 annually in 2025 tax-free. The daughter is given a short window (30 to 60 days) to withdraw funds, which qualifies the gift as a “present interest.” If she does not withdraw the funds, the assets remain protected in the trust until she turns 30 or meets other specified terms, supporting the Redditor’s wealth preservation goals. If she doesn’t withdraw, the assets remain protected in the trust until age 30 or other specified terms, supporting the Redditor’s wealth preservation goals.
Fund the Trust Strategically. Start with a modest contribution to avoid depleting your current wealth and add annually as your net worth grows. Assets like investments or life insurance policies can fund the trust, ensuring growth over time. Given the Redditor’s high income, regular contributions are feasible without derailing their Fat FIRE goal.
Appoint a Trusted Trustee. Select a reliable trustee to manage the trust discreetly. This ensures secrecy and responsible management until the daughter is 30. Clear instructions should outline distribution triggers, like age or specific achievements.
Plan for Secrecy and Communication. Keeping the trust secret fosters independence but risks the daughter feeling blindsided at 30. Consider a gradual reveal, perhaps through financial education in her 20s, to prepare her for responsible wealth management. Alternatively, secrecy protects against entitlement but also requires a robust trustee to enforce terms.

Benefits of Professional Guidance

A qualified financial advisor or estate planning attorney can tailor the trust to the Redditor’s income and net worth, ensuring it aligns with their $8 million goal. They can clarify tax implications, recommend trust structures, and identify pitfalls like mismanagement or excessive fees. Advisors also help balance secrecy with preparing the daughter for wealth, ensuring the trust achieves its purpose without unintended consequences.

The post We want to quietly set up a trust for our daughter without her knowing until she’s 30 – what’s the best way to do that? appeared first on 24/7 Wall St..

Musk’s SpaceX Is Worth $400 Billion, xAI Worth $200 Billion

Douglas A. McIntyre — Sat, 12 Jul 2025 09:24:35 -0400

Elon Musk can almost stop worrying about the value of Tesla’s (NASDAQ: TSLA) stock. His net worth has started to be concentrated in two massive private companies. One is SpaceX, the largest rocket company in the world. The other is xAI, which is the odd combination of his social media business and his AI operations.

Key Points

Elon Musk Has A Net Worth Based In Part On Private Companies
The Value Of Tesla Is Less Important Than These Private Holdings.
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Because of faltering sales and a troubling personal image which has alienated some buyers, Tesla’s stock has fallen from an all time high of $436 in early December of last year to $315. The stock is still up 204% in the last few years while the S&P 500 is 96% higher. Many analysts believe the stock price cannot run back up to $400 or more until Musk proves that Tesla is the world’s clear leader in truly self-driving cars. Tesla has competition from Alphabet’s (NASDAQ: GOOG) Waymo and several Chinese auto manufacturers. In the meantime, Tesla’s vehicle unit sales have fallen for more than a year.

SpaceX has two reasons for a tremendous valuation: the $400 billion figure is based on a current round of financing. This figure is up from $350 billion in December. SpaceX remains the premier provider of rockets that sling people and satellites into space. He has also used his rockets to build a satellite based broadband network that will soon be able to be accessed from everywhere in the world. It has 7,600 of these small orbiting devices, on the way to what the company says will be over 30,000.

Musk owns 42% of SpaceX and 79% of the voting shares. On paper, that means his piece is worth $168 billion.

xAI is a merger Musk engineered between his social media company X (formerly Twitter) which he bought in April 2022 and his AI operation, xAI. He paid $44 billion for Twitter. However, advertisers started to pull away from using the platform and the value collapsed.

In the new merger, X was valued at $33 billion (the equity value less the debt). People questioned why struggling X had a valuation of nearly that. Because of his ownership stakes in the two companies, he was able to push the transaction through. Musk’s AI operation competes with OpenAI among others. (OpenAI is valued at $300 billion.)

According to the FT, Musk is about to close a round of financing that will value xAI as $80 billion. The paper also reports “Saudi Arabia’s sovereign wealth fund, PIF, is expected to play a large role in the deal.” The AI portion of the company produces the Grok chatbot which recently produced a number of antisemitic results That does not seem to have dented the new financing.

Musk owns 59% of the new AI plus social median company. That puts the value of his piece at $47 billion.

Musk’s investments in SpaceX and xAI are worth $215 billion when added together. (Bloomberg puts his entire net worth at $360 billion.)

The post Musk’s SpaceX Is Worth $400 Billion, xAI Worth $200 Billion appeared first on 24/7 Wall St..

Stocks Up 50% to Buy for the Second Half of 2025

Rich Duprey — Sat, 12 Jul 2025 09:12:52 -0400

Key Points in This Article:

The stock market in 2025 has faced significant volatility due to macroeconomic pressures like trade policies and high interest rates, yet the S&P 500 has reached new highs, highlighting opportunities in resilient, high-growth sectors.
Two stocks, each up 50% or more in the first half of 2025, stand out as strong buys for the second half, driven by robust fundamentals and clear catalysts for sustained growth.
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Climb on the Roller Coaster

The first half of 2025 has been a wild ride for investors, characterized by sharp stock market volatility driven by macroeconomic and geopolitical headwinds. President Donald Trump’s trade policies, economists’ doubts about inflation remaining low in the face of tariffs, and Federal Reserve intransigence on cutting interest rates have fueled uncertainty, leading to an 9% decline in the S&P 500 from February to March.

Yet, despite these challenges, the index has scaled new all-time highs, reflecting resilience in certain sectors and investor optimism about innovation-driven growth. Corrections like those seen earlier this year often unearth opportunities, particularly in high-growth industries less tethered to broader economic cycles.

As markets fluctuate, savvy investors can capitalize on companies with strong fundamentals and clear catalysts for sustained gains.

Against this backdrop, two stocks have surged 50% or more in the first half of 2025, yet their momentum appears far from exhausted, with compelling drivers positioning them to climb further in the second half and beyond.

Rocket Lab USA (RKLB)

Rocket Lab USA (NASDAQ:RKLB) is up 53% since the start of the year, but has soared 668% over the past year, driven by its leadership in small-satellite launches and a robust outlook for its next phase of growth.

The company’s Electron rocket, with 68 successful launches since its first and a 100% success rate in 2024, has cemented its position as the second-most utilized U.S. launch provider. However, the primary catalyst for RKLB’s continued ascent is the anticipated debut of its Neutron rocket in the second half of 2025.

With a payload capacity of 13,000 kilograms — 40 times that of Electron — Neutron will compete directly with SpaceX’s Falcon 9, unlocking larger, higher-margin contracts. Rocket Lab has already secured NASA and commercial satellite operator deals for Neutron, signaling strong demand.

Beyond the rocket, Rocket Lab’s $1.07 billion backlog, strategic acquisitions like Mynaric and Geost, and expansion into defense and lunar missions bolster its growth trajectory. Notably, SpaceX’s dominance may wane due to Elon Musk’s public feud with President Trump over the Big Beautiful Bill, which could jeopardize its government contracts.

This political rift opens a window for Rocket Lab to capture a larger share of the $5.6 billion U.S. Space Force initiative and other federal projects, enhancing its revenue potential. Analysts project Rocket Lab’s revenue to nearly triple to $1.2 billion by 2027, with positive cash flow by 2026, making it a compelling buy despite its high valuation.

Uber Technologies (UBER)

Uber Technologies (NYSE:UBER) has driven 58% higher in 2025, capitalizing on a seismic shift in personal mobility. The company’s ride-hailing platform, which facilitated 11.3 billion trips globally in 2024 (up 19% year-over-year), continues to thrive as younger generations shun car ownership and driver’s licenses.

Only 43% of eligible U.S. 17-year-olds hold licenses today, compared to 62% 30 years ago. This shift is driven by high costs and convenient alternatives like Uber. This trend fuels Uber’s growth, with analysts forecasting sustained double-digit revenue increases through 2025 and beyond.

Uber’s expansion into autonomous driving, through partnerships to integrate self-driving vehicles, promises to lower operational costs and boost margins. Additionally, its delivery segment, Uber Eats, is gaining traction in high-growth markets, diversifying revenue streams. Regulatory tailwinds, such as relaxed urban mobility policies, and Uber’s global scalability further enhance its outlook.

Unlike many tech giants, Uber’s business model is less exposed to trade tensions, positioning it to outperform in a volatile market.

Key Takeaway

Both Rocket Lab and Uber are capitalizing on transformative trends — space exploration and mobility disruption — backed by tangible catalysts like Neutron’s launch and Uber’s autonomous driving push.

While risks like Rocket Lab’s high valuation and Uber’s regulatory hurdles remain, their strong fundamentals and market opportunities make them prime candidates for continued gains in the second half of 2025 and beyond.

The post Stocks Up 50% to Buy for the Second Half of 2025 appeared first on 24/7 Wall St..

Break Even at the Casino? You May Still Owe Taxes.

Ian Frisch — Sat, 12 Jul 2025 08:00:03 -0400

The new domestic policy law rewrites tax rules for the hundreds of billions of dollars Americans legally wager each year. A Nevada lawmaker has introduced a bill to overturn that provision.

Down 48%, Can Lucid Group Make You a Millionaire?

Rich Duprey — Sat, 12 Jul 2025 07:45:43 -0400

Key Points in This Article:

Lucid Group (LCID) aims to compete in the premium EV market with models like the Lucid Air and Gravity SUV, while planning to launch affordable mass-market vehicles to capture a broader audience.
The EV maker is exploring high-margin technology licensing to other automakers, potentially diversifying revenue streams beyond vehicle production.
Lucid faces intense competition, operational hurdles, and financial pressures that could impact its ability to scale and succeed in the evolving EV landscape.
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Luxury electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer Lucid Group (NASDAQ:LCID) aims to carve a niche in the premium EV market with models like the Lucid Air and Gravity SUV. Despite a 48% drop from its 52-week high and a staggering 96% loss from its peak after its SPAC merger, Lucid holds the potential to become a significant player in the growing EV sector.

With ambitious plans for mass-market vehicles and technology licensing, Lucid could capitalize on the projected rise in EV sales, expected to reach 30% of U.S. vehicle sales by 2030. However, it still faces significant risks, so let’s examine Lucid’s millionaire-making potential.

Bull Thesis for Lucid Group

The bullish case for Lucid Group hinges on its strategic expansion and technological prowess.

Analysts highlight Lucid’s upcoming launch of two mass-market vehicles — a sedan and a crossover — priced under $50,000 by late 2026, directly competing with Tesla’s (NASDAQ:TSLA) Model 3 and Model Y. These models could drive exponential growth, with sales projected to surge 72% in 2025 and 97% in 2026, following the Gravity SUV’s debut.

Additionally, Lucid’s long-term vision extends beyond manufacturing EVs. By licensing its proprietary powertrain technology, as seen in its 2023 Aston Martin deal, Lucid aims to supply other automakers, potentially yielding higher profit margins and scalability.

Former CEO Peter Rawlinson’s ambition was to produce over a million vehicles annually by the 2030s while transitioning to a tech-focused business model. If Lucid maintains its timeline and secures more partnerships, it could mirror Tesla’s early growth trajectory, offering substantial upside for investors.

Bear Case for Lucid Group

Despite recent progress, Lucid faces daunting challenges, as underscored by its second-quarter production and deliveries update that was released earlier this month (the EV maker reports Q2 financial results on Aug. 5).

Although vehicle deliveries hit a record 3,309, Lucid also produced a record 3,863 EVs for the period, meaning its unsold inventory of 554 EVs adds to its extensive unsold vehicle backlog of 4,043 vehicles.

While Lucid’s first-quarter revenue reached $235 million, up 36% year-over-year, the company remains unprofitable, albeit improved from the year-ago period. Net losses were $366.2 million, or $0.24 per share compared to $680.8 million, or $0.30 per share, in the same period last year.

Operating expenses, including $251 million in research and development, continue to strain its $5.76 billion in liquidity. Lucid’s 2025 production target of 20,000 vehicles — which management just reaffirmed — is ambitious but seems difficult even with the ramp up in Gravity SUV. Year-to-date, Lucid has produced only 6,075 vehicles, meaning nearly 14,000 EVs — more than double the first half of 2025 — need to roll off the production line.

The situation is exacerbated by Tesla’s price cuts and the looming Model Q, which is expected to be priced under $30,000. Competition, supply chain issues, and reduced EV subsidies under new policies could further erode demand.

With 60% ownership by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, Lucid’s cash reserves may require further infusions by 2026, risking dilution. Scaling Gravity production will also spike costs, and without a clear path to profitability, Lucid’s financial stability remains precarious.

Key Takeaway: Millionaire-Making Potential

The prospect of Lucid Group turning an investor into a millionaire is highly unlikely, given its current trajectory and inherent risks. To achieve millionaire status from a modest $10,000 investment, LCID’s stock would need to skyrocket thousands of percent, requiring the company to scale production, achieve profitability, and dominate a competitive EV market.

With a 96% decline from its all-time high and persistent cash burn, Lucid’s path to such gains is fraught with obstacles. Production delays, fierce competition from Tesla, and reliance on external funding increase the risks.

While its mass-market vehicles and tech licensing offer long-term potential, execution risks and market uncertainties make a million-dollar outcome a speculative dream rather than a plausible reality. Investors seeking life-changing returns would need extraordinary patience and tolerance for volatility, with no guaranteed payoff.

The post Down 48%, Can Lucid Group Make You a Millionaire? appeared first on 24/7 Wall St..

As Trump Sows Tariff Confusion, Rules of Global Commerce Give Way to Chaos

Jeanna Smialek and Ana Swanson — Sat, 12 Jul 2025 07:44:37 -0400

Blunt letters dictating terms posted to social media and changes late in negotiations have left trading partners wondering what President Trump will do next.

Is This a Talk Show or a Job Interview?

Anna Holmes — Sat, 12 Jul 2025 05:01:00 -0400

Plus, managing people twice your age.

You Saved and Saved for Retirement. Now You Need a Plan to Cash Out.

Brian J. O’Connor — Sat, 12 Jul 2025 05:00:26 -0400

Most people enter retirement without any idea how to manage withdrawing their savings without running out of money. Here is what you need to know.

Tidings from my stock market humble pie

Sat, 12 Jul 2025 00:00:21 -0400

Retail investors who bought the dip after the tariff sell-off have done well but the outlook for US shares is still challenged

Trump could trigger another market shock, investors warn

Fri, 11 Jul 2025 23:00:01 -0400

Fund managers and bankers cast doubt on bets US president will back down from most severe threats

As Truth Social Business Struggles, Trump Media Goes Big on Crypto

Matthew Goldstein — Fri, 11 Jul 2025 22:04:51 -0400

The pivot to crypto highlights the reality of Truth Social, one of President Trump’s highest-profile business interests: It doesn’t generate much revenue.

Google Hires Top A.I. Leaders From Windsurf, Which OpenAI Was Courting

Tripp Mickle and Mike Isaac — Fri, 11 Jul 2025 22:03:40 -0400

In a $2.4 billion deal, Google recruited the chief executive and a co-founder of Windsurf, which OpenAI had been in talks to buy, as the battle to dominate artificial intelligence escalates.

Fed Defends Renovations as White House Widens Attacks on Central Bank

Colby Smith — Fri, 11 Jul 2025 21:07:39 -0400

President Trump and his allies have accused the Federal Reserve chair, Jerome Powell, of misleading Congress in what some legal scholars worry is a prelude to seeking his removal.

1 in 5 Americans Are Stockpiling Due to Inflation Concerns. Should You?

Drew Wood — Fri, 11 Jul 2025 20:49:21 -0400

Inflation continues to shape how Americans shop, save, and spend. Even as overall prices cool slightly, everyday essentials remain costly. That reality is pushing more people to prepare for the future by stockpiling goods—just in case. About 1 in 5 Americans are now regularly buying more than they need, storing away food, cleaning supplies, and other staples as a hedge against further price hikes or shortages. This article takes a look at what’s driving that behavior, what people are buying, and whether it actually makes sense.

Key Points

Inflation is driving record numbers of Americans to stock their shelves. But it’s a strategy that could backfire and make hard times even harder.
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Inflation in 2025

Although inflation has come down from pandemic-era highs, it’s still a heavy factor in everyday decision-making. The annual inflation rate in the United States was about 2.4% for the 12 months ending in May 2025. Official figures for June and July will be released later this month, but projections suggest an annual rate of 2.6%-2.7%. The most essential expenses, like food, shelter, and utilities, continue to rise faster than wages for many families. Since 2020, overall prices have jumped more than 20%, taking a sharp bite out of Americans’ wallets.

Compounding the issue is a new wave of tariffs introduced by the Trump administration. Imports from countries like China, Mexico, and Canada are facing across-the-board increases, with some goods taxed at far higher rates. Analysts project these tariffs could cost U.S. consumers up to $3.1 trillion over the next decade. Retailers rarely absorb these added costs—instead, they’re passed directly to shoppers, making it even harder for inflation to cool in any meaningful way.

The Rise of Stockpiling

The memory of early pandemic panic buying hasn’t faded. People still remember how fast shelves emptied when supply chains hiccuped and demand surged. But today’s stockpiling is less reactive and more calculated. Surveys show that 19% to 22% of Americans are actively building up reserves, and when those who plan to start are included, the number climbs to nearly 42%. Why the shift? Inflation is the number one personal worry for most Americans, outpacing even concerns about taxes or healthcare. Stockpiling offers a sense of control in a climate of economic uncertainty. For some, it’s about avoiding the stress of future shortages. For others, it’s simply a money-saving strategy: buy now before prices climb again.

Why the Stores Can’t Save You

One reason stockpiling has gained traction is that Americans increasingly realize stores aren’t doing it for them. Most modern retailers use “just-in-time” inventory systems that rely on real-time data and sophisticated algorithms. Rather than stockpiling inventory on-site, deliveries are carefully scheduled and coordinated to keep stores continuously stocked. These systems are efficient and cost-effective for the companies that use them, but they’re also fragile. When something disrupts the flow—be it a storm, a labor strike, or a shipping delay—store shelves can empty in hours and take weeks to refill again. That was painfully clear during events like hurricanes or the early days of COVID-19. Consumers now understand that if a crisis hits, they can’t rely on stores to be stocked.

What People Are Buying

This time around, many Americans are approaching stockpiling with more thought than panic. They’re focusing on goods that are both useful and long-lasting: dry staples like rice, oats, and flour; canned goods that store well for months or years; and basic household supplies like soap, toilet paper, and trash bags. These choices make sense. They’re affordable, used daily, and can be tucked away without spoiling. Personal care items like toothpaste, shampoo, and over-the-counter medications are also smart additions. Pet owners, too, are getting ahead by storing extra pet food and supplies. This kind of stockpiling is practical. It reduces the frequency of shopping trips, offers peace of mind, and can genuinely save money over time—especially if prices continue to rise.

Not all stockpiling is wise, though. Some shoppers fall into the trap of overbuying items they don’t actually need or can’t reasonably store. Perishables like dairy and fresh produce have short shelf lives and often end up in the trash. Freezers can only hold so much, and once full, excess purchases go to waste. Not to mention the fact that all it takes is a power outage during a storm to make a freezer full of half-thawed food go to waste. Other missteps include buying trendy specialty foods or gadgets that aren’t part of a household’s regular routine, or loading up on bulk items that expire long before they can be used. Stockpiling out of fear rather than strategy often leads to clutter, wasted money, and strained budgets. It’s not uncommon for people to find themselves cash-poor because they tied up funds in things they won’t use anytime soon.

Weighing the Pros and Cons

When approached with intention, stockpiling can be a smart strategy. It helps families save money over time, provides a buffer during supply disruptions, and cuts down on last-minute shopping stress. But it’s not without pitfalls. If prices stabilize or fall, you could be stuck with shelves full of goods that no longer offer any real savings. Panic buying can also trigger artificial shortages, putting pressure on the broader community and under-resourced people who cannot afford to hoard. And spending heavily upfront can tie up money you might need for unexpected expenses. There’s also a subtler risk: overuse. When supplies feel abundant, people tend to consume more—eating more food, using products faster, and being less mindful overall. That sense of plenty can lead to waste and undermine the very savings stockpiling was meant to deliver. In the end, the key isn’t just what you buy, but how you manage it once it’s in your home.

Smarter Alternatives to Panic Stockpiling

You don’t have to fill your garage with canned beans to be prepared. Experts suggest a more measured approach. That means buying a little extra of what you already use regularly, rather than chasing bargains on unfamiliar items. Adjusting your household budget to prioritize essentials, building a small emergency fund, and staying informed about inflation and policy changes are all better long-term strategies. Preparation doesn’t have to mean stockpiling—it can also mean planning ahead with your wallet.

At the end of the day, whether or not stockpiling makes sense depends on your situation. If you have the space, the funds, and a clear plan for what you’re buying, it can be a useful buffer against inflation and uncertainty. But excessive or reactive buying may create more stress than it solves. In an economy still adjusting to years of upheaval, financial peace of mind doesn’t always come from spending more—it comes from spending smarter. Stockpile if it helps, but do it with intention. The goal is to stay ahead—not to be overwhelmed.

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Energy Department to Gut Funding for Solar and Wind Projects

Ivan Penn — Fri, 11 Jul 2025 19:26:16 -0400

Stripping hundreds of millions of dollars from renewable energy and efficiency initiatives is part of a broader move to undo efforts to wean the United States off fossil fuels.

Chancellor to open ‘front door’ for investors in UK with concierge service

Fri, 11 Jul 2025 19:01:09 -0400

Rachel Reeves will use Mansion House speech next week to launch growth plan for financial services sector

The F.C.C. Is Pressuring Companies to Drop D.E.I. It’s Succeeding, Too.

Niko Gallogly — Fri, 11 Jul 2025 18:53:49 -0400

T-Mobile, seeking federal approval for two deals, is the latest company to drop its diversity programs amid scrutiny by the Federal Communications Commission.

Are Social Security Cuts Really Going To Affect You?

Maurie Backman — Fri, 11 Jul 2025 18:22:24 -0400

Key Points

The Social Security Trustees are warning that benefit cuts are possible within the next decade.
This isn’t the first time Social Security has faced benefit cuts.
Lawmakers have a history of preventing Social Security cuts, and there’s a good chance they’ll do it again this time.
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If you’re a member of the workforce today, you probably keep hearing about the importance of saving well for retirement. The goal is to make sure that once your career comes to an end, you have more than just Social Security benefits to live on.

But a lot of retirees today have only those benefits for monthly income. And for people in that boat, the idea of Social Security cuts can be extremely scary.

Unfortunately, the concept of Social Security cuts isn’t a far-fetched notion. It’s one that the program’s Trustees are sounding new warnings about.

But should you assume that you’re going to be impacted by Social Security cuts? Not necessarily.

Why the threat of Social Security cuts exists

Social Security gets most of its revenue from payroll taxes. But in the coming years, the program is expected to owe more in benefits than it receives in revenue as the workforce shrinks.

Social Security can use the money in its trust funds to keep up with benefit payments for a period of time. But once the program’s trust funds are out of money, the potential for cuts will exist.

The most recent Social Security Trustees report says that Social Security’s combined trust funds will be depleted in 2034. At that point, the program is only expected to be able to cover 81% of benefits, which means Social Security recipients could see their monthly checks whittled down quite substantially. However, that does not mean that Social Security cuts are set in stone.

Why you may not need to worry (as much) about Social Security cuts

The idea of not getting your complete Social Security check each month can be scary. This holds true whether you’re a retiree who lives off of that income already, or if you’re a working person who’s expecting to need that money later in life.

The reason you may not need to stress quite so much about Social Security cuts is simple. This isn’t the first time Social Security has faced a financial shortfall. In the past, though, lawmakers have never allowed the program to cut benefits. And so there’s a good chance they’ll manage to come up with a solution to prevent benefit cuts this time around, too.

What will that solution look like? That’s not so clear. Some options include raising payroll taxes and pushing back full retirement age, which is when people can claim their Social Security benefits without a reduction. There may be new solutions introduced in the coming years, too.

All told, though, lawmakers know that if current retirees were to lose almost one-fifth of their benefits, it would result in a widespread crisis. That’s something they’re no doubt invested in trying to prevent.

Does this mean that you should be complacent about Social Security cuts? Not exactly. They are still possible, and it’s a good idea to save independently for retirement so you’re less reliant on Social Security for income regardless.

However, you also don’t necessarily need to panic about Social Security cuts. Lawmakers have different options to prevent them from happening. And while the clock is ticking down, there’s still time to come up with a fix.

The post Are Social Security Cuts Really Going To Affect You? appeared first on 24/7 Wall St..

‘They Kept Coming’: Hundreds of Packages Pile Up Outside Woman’s Home

Christine Hauser — Fri, 11 Jul 2025 17:57:40 -0400

A year ago, misdirected Amazon returns began arriving at Karen Holton’s house in California. Eventually, she said, they were stacked so high that she could not easily use her door.

‘Buy the Dip’ Wins Again for Stock Investors

Joe Rennison and Kailyn Rhone — Fri, 11 Jul 2025 15:50:00 -0400

Individual investors were the ones who piled into stocks when they plunged in early April, while big Wall Street institutions missed out on the gains.

Skydance in Early Talks to Acquire Bari Weiss’s Free Press

Benjamin Mullin and Lauren Hirsch — Fri, 11 Jul 2025 15:43:06 -0400

David Ellison, the founder of Skydance, and Bari Weiss, the co-founder of The Free Press, are attending the annual Allen & Co. conference in Sun Valley this week.