Cold comfort: Winter travelers find warmth in flexibility U.S. travel spending is driven by flexible travelers choosing shorter trips and enjoying steady prices on flights, hotels, and cruises for a stable winter travel season.
The power of “ambitious budgeting” One consistent pattern emerges across multiple studies on budgeting: Attempts to curb spending don’t have to be perfect.
Inflation at 3%: Shelter cools while healthcare costs rise The Consumer Price Index shows 3% inflation as housing cools and grocery prices ease, offering some relief versus earlier this year.
Luxury credit cards get an upgrade Annual fees on luxury credit cards are set to increase, but so are their perks.
Understanding RSUs: How restricted stock units work A restricted stock unit (RSU) converts part of compensation into company shares (or cash) on a schedule. Value is set at vesting and is generally taxed as wage income then; later price changes are capital gains or losses when sold.
Variable expenses vs fixed expenses: What’s the difference? Understanding variable expenses and fixed expenses can help create a successful budget. Learn the difference and how to manage variable expenses.
Autumn in the air: Holiday deals arrive later for travelers Fall is shaping up to be one of the smartest times to travel, with lower airfares, tighter booking windows, and rising demand for off-peak getaways.
Purchasing power: what it is and how it works Purchasing power, or buying power, refers to how much you can buy with a specific amount of money. It goes up and down over time according to various economic factors. Find out how to mitigate risk to your purchasing power.
How mega-retailers are turning tariffs into opportunity Despite new tariffs, major retailers have largely kept price increases at bay by absorbing costs and shifting their supply strategies.
Tracking America’s food spending: People spend $1,546 a month on groceries and restaurants Generational differences and new habits show how households are adapting to higher food costs and budgeting for meals.
Tariff concerns send shoppers back to school early Beating price increases is top of mind for 67% of families, yet despite tighter budgets, total spending is projected to rise.
How could tariffs impact my wallet and my portfolio? Get a Sense Check Empower's Jeff Giannone weighs in on common tariff questions: Whether to consider adjusting investments and portfolio strategy, and steps to take to help stay on track and in control.
