18 hours ago
Accepting the $1M gift eliminates nearly 7% interest on a jumbo mortgage, delivering an immediate risk-free return that rivals most market strategies.
The new $15M lifetime gift exemption lets the in-laws transfer the full $1M immediately tax-free, requiring only a Form 709 filing.
An intrafamily loan at the 3.72% IRS minimum rate saves roughly 3 percentage points versus the current 6.9% jumbo mortgage rate.
Building a portfolio and living off one are two completely different skills, and almost **** ody teaches the second. This problem is what The Definitive Guide to Retirement Income helps, and it is free today. Read more here. (Sponsor)
People who pursue a FIRE (Financial Independence Retire Early) philosophy aggressively save and invest with a goal of retiring young enough to enjoy the freedom that a substantial nest egg affords. A fatFIRE adherent aims to accumulate a seven- or eight-figure retirement portfolio, enabling a lifestyle that ordinary early retirement budgets cannot support. When a couple's in-laws share those fatFIRE values, the relationship tends to run smoothly. But good intentions packaged as sizable financial gifts can shift that balance quickly, and without diplomacy and a shared strategy, even a generous offer can quietly fracture family dynamics.
#free
The new $15M lifetime gift exemption lets the in-laws transfer the full $1M immediately tax-free, requiring only a Form 709 filing.
An intrafamily loan at the 3.72% IRS minimum rate saves roughly 3 percentage points versus the current 6.9% jumbo mortgage rate.
Building a portfolio and living off one are two completely different skills, and almost **** ody teaches the second. This problem is what The Definitive Guide to Retirement Income helps, and it is free today. Read more here. (Sponsor)
People who pursue a FIRE (Financial Independence Retire Early) philosophy aggressively save and invest with a goal of retiring young enough to enjoy the freedom that a substantial nest egg affords. A fatFIRE adherent aims to accumulate a seven- or eight-figure retirement portfolio, enabling a lifestyle that ordinary early retirement budgets cannot support. When a couple's in-laws share those fatFIRE values, the relationship tends to run smoothly. But good intentions packaged as sizable financial gifts can shift that balance quickly, and without diplomacy and a shared strategy, even a generous offer can quietly fracture family dynamics.
#free
1 day ago
Sign up for Semafor Washington, DC: What the White House is reading. Read it now.
In this article:
As soon as Republican Sen. Darline Graham won the GOP nomination to replace her late brother in August, Democrat Annie Andrews made her move.
Andrews immediately began spending more than $5 million on advertising in South Carolina’s Senate race at a moment when she largely had the airwaves to herself as her new opponent struggled to raise money. At the time, Republicans were racing to prioritize other competitive races across the country — and most people in both parties still saw South Carolina as a pipe dream for Democrats.
But by October, when the rest of the country began tuning into South Carolina — and spending money — Andrews quietly became the frontrunner, according to internal campaign details shared with Semafor following her victory on Tuesday.
#semafor #began
In this article:
As soon as Republican Sen. Darline Graham won the GOP nomination to replace her late brother in August, Democrat Annie Andrews made her move.
Andrews immediately began spending more than $5 million on advertising in South Carolina’s Senate race at a moment when she largely had the airwaves to herself as her new opponent struggled to raise money. At the time, Republicans were racing to prioritize other competitive races across the country — and most people in both parties still saw South Carolina as a pipe dream for Democrats.
But by October, when the rest of the country began tuning into South Carolina — and spending money — Andrews quietly became the frontrunner, according to internal campaign details shared with Semafor following her victory on Tuesday.
#semafor #began
7 days ago
Green Bay Packers QB Jordan Love connected on 30 of his 41 passes for 288 yards, three touchdowns, and one interception during the team's Week 8 win over the Carolina Panthers.
SOURCE: USA TODAY
Why It Matters: Forced to operate without the benefit of a professional-level running attack yet again on Thursday night, Love made lemonade, passing for more than 270 yards for the sixth time this season (and fourth in a row) while running his streak of games with multiple touchdowns to eight. Love has quietly moved into that same category as names like Dak Prescott and Jared Goff, who can produce midrange to low-end QB1 numbers without the benefit of doing any running. Through eight games, Love is on pace to throw for 4,773 yards, 34 TDs, and 13 INTs. Even without rushing numbers, that's borderline QB1 production.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Jordan Love tosses three TD passes in win over Carolina
#touchdowns
SOURCE: USA TODAY
Why It Matters: Forced to operate without the benefit of a professional-level running attack yet again on Thursday night, Love made lemonade, passing for more than 270 yards for the sixth time this season (and fourth in a row) while running his streak of games with multiple touchdowns to eight. Love has quietly moved into that same category as names like Dak Prescott and Jared Goff, who can produce midrange to low-end QB1 numbers without the benefit of doing any running. Through eight games, Love is on pace to throw for 4,773 yards, 34 TDs, and 13 INTs. Even without rushing numbers, that's borderline QB1 production.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Jordan Love tosses three TD passes in win over Carolina
#touchdowns
18 days ago
Dallas Cowboys WR Ryan Flournoy caught seven passes for 40 yards and a touchdown in Week 6 against the Green Bay Packers. He was targeted nine times.
SOURCE: USA TODAY
Why It Matters: Although he's well behind CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens, Flournoy has quietly become a bigger part of the passing game than Jake Ferguson. On Sunday night, he finished third on the team in targets, second on the team in receptions, and he had the only receiving touchdown. He's not a reliable fantasy option just yet, but Flournoy has put his name into the WR5 conversation for those in larger leagues.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Ryan Flournoy scores late touchdown in Week 6 defeat
#today
SOURCE: USA TODAY
Why It Matters: Although he's well behind CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens, Flournoy has quietly become a bigger part of the passing game than Jake Ferguson. On Sunday night, he finished third on the team in targets, second on the team in receptions, and he had the only receiving touchdown. He's not a reliable fantasy option just yet, but Flournoy has put his name into the WR5 conversation for those in larger leagues.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Ryan Flournoy scores late touchdown in Week 6 defeat
#today
29 days ago
Retirement isn't supposed to be a financial obstacle course. But for many retirees, it becomes one — not because they didn't save enough, but because they're avoiding the very decisions that could protect what they've already built. Small postponements and wishful thinking can quietly spiral into serious money problems.
Financial advisors see it happen again and again: retirees who put off critical decisions until the damage is done. Here are five avoidance moves that consistently undermine retirement security.
Without a realistic retirement plan, it's easy to spend more than your savings can actually support.
"What makes this especially difficult is that the conversation goes beyond just the numbers," explained Linda Grizely, financial wellness and behavioral finance speaker. "It can feel like a judgment about lifestyle, independence and past financial choices."
Most retirees keep doing what feels comfortable and hope it works out. Instead, Grizely recommended mapping your cash flow, spending, income, investments, taxes and account withdrawal strategy. Revisit this at least annually and whenever spending, markets, taxes, health or life circumstances shift.
#retirees #grizely #spending
Financial advisors see it happen again and again: retirees who put off critical decisions until the damage is done. Here are five avoidance moves that consistently undermine retirement security.
Without a realistic retirement plan, it's easy to spend more than your savings can actually support.
"What makes this especially difficult is that the conversation goes beyond just the numbers," explained Linda Grizely, financial wellness and behavioral finance speaker. "It can feel like a judgment about lifestyle, independence and past financial choices."
Most retirees keep doing what feels comfortable and hope it works out. Instead, Grizely recommended mapping your cash flow, spending, income, investments, taxes and account withdrawal strategy. Revisit this at least annually and whenever spending, markets, taxes, health or life circumstances shift.
#retirees #grizely #spending
1 month ago
Leanna Lenee has quietly become just as much of a gameday fixture as her husband, Jacksonville Jaguars cornerback and wide receiver Travis Hunter, and once again, she gave fans exactly what they show up for.
Ahead of the Jacksonville Jaguars' matchup against the Cincinnati Bengals, Leanna stepped out in a custom teal-and-blue halter top emblazoned with "HUNTER" and the number 12 across the chest, paired with sleek black high-waisted pants featuring a cutout detail along the thigh. Her son matched her look almost piece for piece, dressed in a mini Jaguars romper carrying his father's name and number on the back. Leanna captioned the post simply: "Next question."
That two-word caption did little to slow down the response. However, this isn't the first time Leanna's gameday look has taken over the timeline either. Just weeks earlier, ahead of Jacksonville's matchup against the New England Patriots, she turned heads in a dusty blue bodycon dress covered in Jaguars patches, a jersey-number detail, and white cowboy boots, once again dressing her son in a coordinating fit down to the shoes. Fans' response then was nearly identical, with one commenter telling her outright she had "the cutest NFL wifey clothes," a sentiment that's clearly carried straight through to this latest appearance.
There was also plenty happening on the football side for the Hunter family to celebrate.
Fashion moments off the field are stealing the spotlight as much as the action on it. Subscribe to stay updated on the personalities and style that define NFL gamedays.
#jaguars #number #fans #ahead
Ahead of the Jacksonville Jaguars' matchup against the Cincinnati Bengals, Leanna stepped out in a custom teal-and-blue halter top emblazoned with "HUNTER" and the number 12 across the chest, paired with sleek black high-waisted pants featuring a cutout detail along the thigh. Her son matched her look almost piece for piece, dressed in a mini Jaguars romper carrying his father's name and number on the back. Leanna captioned the post simply: "Next question."
That two-word caption did little to slow down the response. However, this isn't the first time Leanna's gameday look has taken over the timeline either. Just weeks earlier, ahead of Jacksonville's matchup against the New England Patriots, she turned heads in a dusty blue bodycon dress covered in Jaguars patches, a jersey-number detail, and white cowboy boots, once again dressing her son in a coordinating fit down to the shoes. Fans' response then was nearly identical, with one commenter telling her outright she had "the cutest NFL wifey clothes," a sentiment that's clearly carried straight through to this latest appearance.
There was also plenty happening on the football side for the Hunter family to celebrate.
Fashion moments off the field are stealing the spotlight as much as the action on it. Subscribe to stay updated on the personalities and style that define NFL gamedays.
#jaguars #number #fans #ahead
1 month ago
Actor John Boyega, best known as Finn in the "Star Wars" sequel trilogy, is opening up about his personal life. In a recent interview, he was asked about the ring on his left hand. The "Attack the Block" actor then revealed the shocking news. Not only did he quietly get married two years ago, but he is also getting ready to welcome a child.
ZUMAPRESS.com / MEGA
Although he is now a household name for his roles in "Pacific Rim: Uprising" and "The Woman King," Boyega suffered a tragic loss when he was only eight years old. At the time, his friend Damilola Taylor, 10, was stabbed and killed. In the opening scene of a new BBC Two documentary about the killing, Boyega said, "Speaking about it could possibly help. I haven't revisited this in a long time. Yeah, my heart is just beating."
In November 2000, Damilola was stabbed in the leg and left to die in a stairwell. He was attacked as he walked home from an after-school club at Peckham library in South London. The case shocked the nation, not only because the victim was so young, but because the suspects were also children. Boyega was one of the last people to see Damilola alive. Now, he is ready to talk about that day and how his tragic childhood experience will shape him as a father.
ZUMAPRESS.com / MEGA
#boyega #mega #actor #left
ZUMAPRESS.com / MEGA
Although he is now a household name for his roles in "Pacific Rim: Uprising" and "The Woman King," Boyega suffered a tragic loss when he was only eight years old. At the time, his friend Damilola Taylor, 10, was stabbed and killed. In the opening scene of a new BBC Two documentary about the killing, Boyega said, "Speaking about it could possibly help. I haven't revisited this in a long time. Yeah, my heart is just beating."
In November 2000, Damilola was stabbed in the leg and left to die in a stairwell. He was attacked as he walked home from an after-school club at Peckham library in South London. The case shocked the nation, not only because the victim was so young, but because the suspects were also children. Boyega was one of the last people to see Damilola alive. Now, he is ready to talk about that day and how his tragic childhood experience will shape him as a father.
ZUMAPRESS.com / MEGA
#boyega #mega #actor #left
1 month ago
Photographs of Harry and Meghan walking into a Cotswolds pub on Thursday, published in The Sun on Saturday, have raised suspicions that the Sussexes may have quietly co-operated with the anonymous photographer who snapped them.
The first tingle to the collective "spidey sense" of royal watchers came from how pin-sharp they are—rather like the pictures of Thomas Markle getting measured for his wedding suit—which is always a bit of a giveaway.
Also, British photographers don't wait outside random pubs on the off chance that Harry and Meghan might show up. And, given you are not allowed in the U.K. to publish photos sourced by following the subject, one has to wonder how a professional photographer just happened to be parked up outside the Falkland Arms pub in Great Tew on Thursday, in the perfect position to grab photos that look like a typical U.S.-style tabloid set-up.
Also, the pictures tell exactly the story the Sussexes want. There has been a lot of speculation about their marriage, and whether it's really as strong as it's made out to be, and here they are, hand in hand, going for a romantic, midweek pub lunch.
Plus, this is all studiously English. The Sussexes, you may recall, told us at some length that England's iconic institution, its monarchy, was a ghastly, corrupt, racist outfit that would be quite happy to see them dead. Now, they want to make it clear that they love England after all, and how better to do that than by shunning the fancy elite restaurants in London in favor of an ancient British pub (named after Lucius Cary, second Viscount Falkland, who died at the battle of Newbury in 1643), where a humble dish of fish and chips costs £20 ($26).
#harry #falkland #photographer #like
The first tingle to the collective "spidey sense" of royal watchers came from how pin-sharp they are—rather like the pictures of Thomas Markle getting measured for his wedding suit—which is always a bit of a giveaway.
Also, British photographers don't wait outside random pubs on the off chance that Harry and Meghan might show up. And, given you are not allowed in the U.K. to publish photos sourced by following the subject, one has to wonder how a professional photographer just happened to be parked up outside the Falkland Arms pub in Great Tew on Thursday, in the perfect position to grab photos that look like a typical U.S.-style tabloid set-up.
Also, the pictures tell exactly the story the Sussexes want. There has been a lot of speculation about their marriage, and whether it's really as strong as it's made out to be, and here they are, hand in hand, going for a romantic, midweek pub lunch.
Plus, this is all studiously English. The Sussexes, you may recall, told us at some length that England's iconic institution, its monarchy, was a ghastly, corrupt, racist outfit that would be quite happy to see them dead. Now, they want to make it clear that they love England after all, and how better to do that than by shunning the fancy elite restaurants in London in favor of an ancient British pub (named after Lucius Cary, second Viscount Falkland, who died at the battle of Newbury in 1643), where a humble dish of fish and chips costs £20 ($26).
#harry #falkland #photographer #like
1 month ago
Chad Lowe's eldest daughter Mabel, 17, found a quiet and deeply personal way to honor her late sister, Fiona, just days after the 13-year-old's heartbreaking death on September 29.
On October 2, Mabel reposted a video of her younger sister on her Instagram Story doing one of the things she loved the most: dancing. Kendra Andrews, the younger sister of sports reporter Erin Andrews, posted the original video. She's a professional dancer and actress in Los Angeles, and she also choreographed for Fiona.
More from SheKnows
Ivanka Trump's 'Mini-Me' Arabella Kushner Has Quietly Become a Trump Family Secret Weapon
Andrew posted two video clips of Fiona in 2025, learning her solo in a rehearsal studio. The caption described how much the young girl went through after the Pacific Palisades Fire — and how dance got her through a tough time.
#andrews #september
On October 2, Mabel reposted a video of her younger sister on her Instagram Story doing one of the things she loved the most: dancing. Kendra Andrews, the younger sister of sports reporter Erin Andrews, posted the original video. She's a professional dancer and actress in Los Angeles, and she also choreographed for Fiona.
More from SheKnows
Ivanka Trump's 'Mini-Me' Arabella Kushner Has Quietly Become a Trump Family Secret Weapon
Andrew posted two video clips of Fiona in 2025, learning her solo in a rehearsal studio. The caption described how much the young girl went through after the Pacific Palisades Fire — and how dance got her through a tough time.
#andrews #september
1 month ago
Mikey Madison turned heads with a daring mix of traditional British tailoring and sultry punk glamour. The rising actress stepped out in a custom dark Vivienne Westwood look styled by celebrity stylist Andrew Mukamal. Pairing vintage-inspired structure with edgy details, she easily commanded the room. Her unique outfit showcases classic Westwood rebellion while bringing a fresh, modern energy to red-carpet dressing.
Madison wore a tailored two-piece look featuring a sharp slate-blue short-sleeved jacket. The structured top boasted wide lapels, neat central **** ons, and a flared peplum waist. A subtle embroidered Vivienne Westwood orb logo sat quietly near her hip. The tailored silhouette hugged her torso closely, creating a classic vintage shape before giving way to the dramatic skirt below.
The asymmetric skirt featured navy and black diagonal bands with an uneven hem. A sheer section appeared beneath one side of the skirt, while black tights continued the dark color palette. She finished the look with dark navy open-toe platform heels
She posed against a grey textured wall, letting her outfit do all the talking. Mikey swept her long brunette hair over her shoulder in loose, cascading waves. She chose soft, natural makeup with rosy cheeks, defined eyes, and a satin pink lip. She kept her accessories minimal, opting for delicate silver earrings so the structured clothing remained the main focus.
Mikey proves that structured tops and provocative skirts can coexist beautifully. Stylist Andrew Mukamal highlighted Westwood's signature corsetry details while embracing a moody aesthetic. Mikey walked the line between retro sophistication and edgy gothic glamour with complete confidence. She continues to solidify her position as a true fashion risk-taker to watch
#westwood #look
Madison wore a tailored two-piece look featuring a sharp slate-blue short-sleeved jacket. The structured top boasted wide lapels, neat central **** ons, and a flared peplum waist. A subtle embroidered Vivienne Westwood orb logo sat quietly near her hip. The tailored silhouette hugged her torso closely, creating a classic vintage shape before giving way to the dramatic skirt below.
The asymmetric skirt featured navy and black diagonal bands with an uneven hem. A sheer section appeared beneath one side of the skirt, while black tights continued the dark color palette. She finished the look with dark navy open-toe platform heels
She posed against a grey textured wall, letting her outfit do all the talking. Mikey swept her long brunette hair over her shoulder in loose, cascading waves. She chose soft, natural makeup with rosy cheeks, defined eyes, and a satin pink lip. She kept her accessories minimal, opting for delicate silver earrings so the structured clothing remained the main focus.
Mikey proves that structured tops and provocative skirts can coexist beautifully. Stylist Andrew Mukamal highlighted Westwood's signature corsetry details while embracing a moody aesthetic. Mikey walked the line between retro sophistication and edgy gothic glamour with complete confidence. She continues to solidify her position as a true fashion risk-taker to watch
#westwood #look
1 month ago
Mikey Madison turned heads with a daring mix of traditional British tailoring and sultry punk glamour. The rising actress stepped out in a custom dark Vivienne Westwood look styled by celebrity stylist Andrew Mukamal. Pairing vintage-inspired structure with edgy details, she easily commanded the room. Her unique outfit showcases classic Westwood rebellion while bringing a fresh, modern energy to red-carpet dressing.
Madison wore a tailored two-piece look featuring a sharp slate-blue short-sleeved jacket. The structured top boasted wide lapels, neat central **** ons, and a flared peplum waist. A subtle embroidered Vivienne Westwood orb logo sat quietly near her hip. The tailored silhouette hugged her torso closely, creating a classic vintage shape before giving way to the dramatic skirt below.
The asymmetric skirt featured navy and black diagonal bands with an uneven hem. A sheer section appeared beneath one side of the skirt, while black tights continued the dark color palette. She finished the look with dark navy open-toe platform heels
She posed against a grey textured wall, letting her outfit do all the talking. Mikey swept her long brunette hair over her shoulder in loose, cascading waves. She chose soft, natural makeup with rosy cheeks, defined eyes, and a satin pink lip. She kept her accessories minimal, opting for delicate silver earrings so the structured clothing remained the main focus.
Mikey proves that structured tops and provocative skirts can coexist beautifully. Stylist Andrew Mukamal highlighted Westwood's signature corsetry details while embracing a moody aesthetic. Mikey walked the line between retro sophistication and edgy gothic glamour with complete confidence. She continues to solidify her position as a true fashion risk-taker to watch
#dark #look #vivienne
Madison wore a tailored two-piece look featuring a sharp slate-blue short-sleeved jacket. The structured top boasted wide lapels, neat central **** ons, and a flared peplum waist. A subtle embroidered Vivienne Westwood orb logo sat quietly near her hip. The tailored silhouette hugged her torso closely, creating a classic vintage shape before giving way to the dramatic skirt below.
The asymmetric skirt featured navy and black diagonal bands with an uneven hem. A sheer section appeared beneath one side of the skirt, while black tights continued the dark color palette. She finished the look with dark navy open-toe platform heels
She posed against a grey textured wall, letting her outfit do all the talking. Mikey swept her long brunette hair over her shoulder in loose, cascading waves. She chose soft, natural makeup with rosy cheeks, defined eyes, and a satin pink lip. She kept her accessories minimal, opting for delicate silver earrings so the structured clothing remained the main focus.
Mikey proves that structured tops and provocative skirts can coexist beautifully. Stylist Andrew Mukamal highlighted Westwood's signature corsetry details while embracing a moody aesthetic. Mikey walked the line between retro sophistication and edgy gothic glamour with complete confidence. She continues to solidify her position as a true fashion risk-taker to watch
#dark #look #vivienne
1 month ago
Ken Urker, ex-fiancée of Gypsy Rose Blanchard, died on Thursday, Oct. 1. He was 33 years old.
Urker was found unresponsive on Thursday in his Louisiana home, where Blanchard's brother, Dylan, found him before contacting authorities, TMZ reported.
A cause of death has not been confirmed. Urker died on the day of his 33rd birthday.
According to TMZ, Blanchard texted Urker the day he died, wishing him a "Happy Birthday." Sources told the outlet Blanchard didn't receive a response. Sources also told TMZ that Blanchard and Urker's family are in shock over his death.
Urker and Blanchard share one daughter, Aurora Raina Urker, whom they welcomed in December 2024. The former couple quietly engaged in October 2018 while Blanchard was incarcerated for the second-degree murder of her mom, Clauddine "DeeDee" Blanchard, Us Weekly reported.
#died
Urker was found unresponsive on Thursday in his Louisiana home, where Blanchard's brother, Dylan, found him before contacting authorities, TMZ reported.
A cause of death has not been confirmed. Urker died on the day of his 33rd birthday.
According to TMZ, Blanchard texted Urker the day he died, wishing him a "Happy Birthday." Sources told the outlet Blanchard didn't receive a response. Sources also told TMZ that Blanchard and Urker's family are in shock over his death.
Urker and Blanchard share one daughter, Aurora Raina Urker, whom they welcomed in December 2024. The former couple quietly engaged in October 2018 while Blanchard was incarcerated for the second-degree murder of her mom, Clauddine "DeeDee" Blanchard, Us Weekly reported.
#died
1 month ago
Dakota Johnson may have taken the first step in moving her relationship with Machine Gun Kelly (MGK) beyond friendship.
The pair has sparked romance rumors in recent weeks, but insiders say the couple is keeping things casual.
Johnson and MGK have reportedly been spending more time together recently. OK! Magazine reports that Johnson did not shy away from taking the first step towards a romantic relationship. An insider said, "Dakota was the one who made the first move!" "He's very shy around her, but he likes her a lot," they added, speaking of MGK.
Reports of the romance come after Johnson was previously linked to musician Role Model, with the pair reportedly splitting earlier this year.
The pair reportedly ***** ped into each other at Taylor Swift's Madison Square Garden wedding to Travis Kelce. Sources have said that the couple hit it off from the get go. They were later spotted together in New York and Milan, where Johnson attended MGK's appearance at Vogue World: Milano. People reported that the pair has been quietly dating each other for months. It also confirmed that the relationship began as friendship before evolving into a romantic one.
#reports #Romance
The pair has sparked romance rumors in recent weeks, but insiders say the couple is keeping things casual.
Johnson and MGK have reportedly been spending more time together recently. OK! Magazine reports that Johnson did not shy away from taking the first step towards a romantic relationship. An insider said, "Dakota was the one who made the first move!" "He's very shy around her, but he likes her a lot," they added, speaking of MGK.
Reports of the romance come after Johnson was previously linked to musician Role Model, with the pair reportedly splitting earlier this year.
The pair reportedly ***** ped into each other at Taylor Swift's Madison Square Garden wedding to Travis Kelce. Sources have said that the couple hit it off from the get go. They were later spotted together in New York and Milan, where Johnson attended MGK's appearance at Vogue World: Milano. People reported that the pair has been quietly dating each other for months. It also confirmed that the relationship began as friendship before evolving into a romantic one.
#reports #Romance
2 months ago
For the past couple of decades, the so-called "American Dream" has followed a pretty linear pathway. You finish high school, go to a four-year university, and then graduate straight into a corporate office that comes with a slick 401(k).
That bachelor's degree was the golden ticket that made everything possible, and your parents probably told you that earning a diploma was critical to your success, right? Well, new labor market data has turned that decades-old playbook upside down.
Here's Another Little-Known Firm Jensen Huang's Nvidia Is Quietly Backing
MediaTek Is Stepping Up Competition Against Qualcomm With a New 2-Nanometer Chip. What This Means for QCOM Stock.
1 Year Into the Microsoft Deal, IREN Is Delivering and a Rally May Follow Soon
#firm #jensen
That bachelor's degree was the golden ticket that made everything possible, and your parents probably told you that earning a diploma was critical to your success, right? Well, new labor market data has turned that decades-old playbook upside down.
Here's Another Little-Known Firm Jensen Huang's Nvidia Is Quietly Backing
MediaTek Is Stepping Up Competition Against Qualcomm With a New 2-Nanometer Chip. What This Means for QCOM Stock.
1 Year Into the Microsoft Deal, IREN Is Delivering and a Rally May Follow Soon
#firm #jensen
2 months ago
I'll admit that like many economists and market commentators, I have warned about more market calamities than have actually come to pass. I'll say this in my defense:
If you ignore risk, you take your chances with what the market does next. If you always seek to account for risk, you can ride the highs without being pummeled by all the lows. Over time, that's a more gratifying investment experience.
Here's Another Little-Known Firm Jensen Huang's Nvidia Is Quietly Backing
MediaTek Is Stepping Up Competition Against Qualcomm With a New 2-Nanometer Chip. What This Means for QCOM Stock.
1 Year Into the Microsoft Deal, IREN Is Delivering and a Rally May Follow Soon
#little
If you ignore risk, you take your chances with what the market does next. If you always seek to account for risk, you can ride the highs without being pummeled by all the lows. Over time, that's a more gratifying investment experience.
Here's Another Little-Known Firm Jensen Huang's Nvidia Is Quietly Backing
MediaTek Is Stepping Up Competition Against Qualcomm With a New 2-Nanometer Chip. What This Means for QCOM Stock.
1 Year Into the Microsoft Deal, IREN Is Delivering and a Rally May Follow Soon
#little
2 months ago
Just over a year ago, investors largely viewed IREN (IREN) as a bitcoin mining company. Today, the company supplies AI infrastructure to Microsoft (MSFT) and signs billion-dollar contracts with some of the biggest names in the AI market, including Nvidia (NVDA) and Dell Technologies (DELL). These developments provide evidence that IREN's shift toward AI infrastructure is translating into actual business activity, and the market has responded strongly to that progress. IREN shares have been rewarded with two strong moves over the last two months.
IREN's AI transformation centers on a major five-year agreement with Microsoft. The company entered into a $9.7 billion cloud services agreement with Microsoft, with 20% of the contract value paid upfront. Once fully commissioned, the deal is expected to generate nearly $1.94 billion in annualized run-rate revenue. That gives IREN a significant source of contracted business as it builds out its AI cloud operations.
Here's Another Little-Known Firm Jensen Huang's Nvidia Is Quietly Backing
MediaTek Is Stepping Up Competition Against Qualcomm With a New 2-Nanometer Chip. What This Means for QCOM Stock.
JPMorgan Changed Its Mind on Meta Stock After This Major AI Breakthrough
#NVIDIA
IREN's AI transformation centers on a major five-year agreement with Microsoft. The company entered into a $9.7 billion cloud services agreement with Microsoft, with 20% of the contract value paid upfront. Once fully commissioned, the deal is expected to generate nearly $1.94 billion in annualized run-rate revenue. That gives IREN a significant source of contracted business as it builds out its AI cloud operations.
Here's Another Little-Known Firm Jensen Huang's Nvidia Is Quietly Backing
MediaTek Is Stepping Up Competition Against Qualcomm With a New 2-Nanometer Chip. What This Means for QCOM Stock.
JPMorgan Changed Its Mind on Meta Stock After This Major AI Breakthrough
#NVIDIA
2 months ago
One of the top companies I'm keeping my eye on right now happens to be among the leading quantum computing companies in North America, and globally.
Shares of Infleqtion (INFQ) have been on a roller coaster ride lately, partly due to the volatility we've seen across this sector.
Here's Another Little-Known Firm Jensen Huang's Nvidia Is Quietly Backing
MediaTek Is Stepping Up Competition Against Qualcomm With a New 2-Nanometer Chip. What This Means for QCOM Stock.
'Even Though It's Bad for Berkshire' Billionaire Charlie Munger Said to Skip Insurance Because 'You're Paying for the Other Fellow's Frauds'
#shares #infleqtion #known #firm
Shares of Infleqtion (INFQ) have been on a roller coaster ride lately, partly due to the volatility we've seen across this sector.
Here's Another Little-Known Firm Jensen Huang's Nvidia Is Quietly Backing
MediaTek Is Stepping Up Competition Against Qualcomm With a New 2-Nanometer Chip. What This Means for QCOM Stock.
'Even Though It's Bad for Berkshire' Billionaire Charlie Munger Said to Skip Insurance Because 'You're Paying for the Other Fellow's Frauds'
#shares #infleqtion #known #firm
2 months ago
Risk management is my number one priority. As I see it, you can't get where you want to be as an investor if you don't control the risk you take.
That ranges from the use of cash, incorporation of hedging techniques, and a whole lot more. Here, I want to draw your attention to one of the less research intensive aspects of risk management.
Here's Another Little-Known Firm Jensen Huang's Nvidia Is Quietly Backing
MediaTek Is Stepping Up Competition Against Qualcomm With a New 2-Nanometer Chip. What This Means for QCOM Stock.
1 Year Into the Microsoft Deal, IREN Is Delivering and a Rally May Follow Soon
#risk #known #jensen #quietly
That ranges from the use of cash, incorporation of hedging techniques, and a whole lot more. Here, I want to draw your attention to one of the less research intensive aspects of risk management.
Here's Another Little-Known Firm Jensen Huang's Nvidia Is Quietly Backing
MediaTek Is Stepping Up Competition Against Qualcomm With a New 2-Nanometer Chip. What This Means for QCOM Stock.
1 Year Into the Microsoft Deal, IREN Is Delivering and a Rally May Follow Soon
#risk #known #jensen #quietly
2 months ago
With a market cap of $19.5 billion, Best Buy Co., Inc. (BBY) is a leading technology retailer focused on enriching lives through technology by combining tech expertise with personalized customer service. The company serves customers through its online platform, stores, and in-home services, addressing a wide range of everyday technology needs.
Companies valued at more than $10 billion are generally considered "large-cap" stocks, and Best Buy fits this criterion perfectly. Best Buy operates more than 1,000 stores across the United States and Canada and employs more than 85,000 people.
Here's Another Little-Known Firm Jensen Huang's Nvidia Is Quietly Backing
MediaTek Is Stepping Up Competition Against Qualcomm With a New 2-Nanometer Chip. What This Means for QCOM Stock.
1 Year Into the Microsoft Deal, IREN Is Delivering and a Rally May Follow Soon
#stores #known
Companies valued at more than $10 billion are generally considered "large-cap" stocks, and Best Buy fits this criterion perfectly. Best Buy operates more than 1,000 stores across the United States and Canada and employs more than 85,000 people.
Here's Another Little-Known Firm Jensen Huang's Nvidia Is Quietly Backing
MediaTek Is Stepping Up Competition Against Qualcomm With a New 2-Nanometer Chip. What This Means for QCOM Stock.
1 Year Into the Microsoft Deal, IREN Is Delivering and a Rally May Follow Soon
#stores #known
2 months ago
On the Sept. 3, 2026 episode of The Ramsey Show, a Houston caller named Nathan asked whether he should use his savings to clear a mortgage he described as a "whatever, 2% mortgage or something." He had about $280,000 left on it and roughly $346,000 in liquid ******* ets, most of it cash and the rest in a taxable brokerage account. Dave Ramsey told him to do it, and to do it that night.
Five months earlier, Ramsey had told a caller in almost the same position the opposite. On April 1, 2026, a web engineer earning around $600,000 a year called in about three weeks after being laid off, sitting on enough cash to clear a San Francisco, California mortgage. "When you're in the middle of a storm, you do temporary things," Ramsey said. "Hold on to the cash. We're not gonna pay off the house because we may not be staying in the house."
Here's Another Little-Known Firm Jensen Huang's Nvidia Is Quietly Backing
MediaTek Is Stepping Up Competition Against Qualcomm With a New 2-Nanometer Chip. What This Means for QCOM Stock.
1 Year Into the Microsoft Deal, IREN Is Delivering and a Rally May Follow Soon
#mortgage #told
Five months earlier, Ramsey had told a caller in almost the same position the opposite. On April 1, 2026, a web engineer earning around $600,000 a year called in about three weeks after being laid off, sitting on enough cash to clear a San Francisco, California mortgage. "When you're in the middle of a storm, you do temporary things," Ramsey said. "Hold on to the cash. We're not gonna pay off the house because we may not be staying in the house."
Here's Another Little-Known Firm Jensen Huang's Nvidia Is Quietly Backing
MediaTek Is Stepping Up Competition Against Qualcomm With a New 2-Nanometer Chip. What This Means for QCOM Stock.
1 Year Into the Microsoft Deal, IREN Is Delivering and a Rally May Follow Soon
#mortgage #told
2 months ago
Today, I'm kicking off a new risk management series here at Barchart called "Look Both Ways Before You Cross Wall Street."
Instead of hitting you with my topical trade ideas, I'll get a little more nitty-gritty and into the weeds – explaining the what, why, how, and the real risk/reward math you need to know as a DIY manager of your own wealth.
Here's Another Little-Known Firm Jensen Huang's Nvidia Is Quietly Backing
MediaTek Is Stepping Up Competition Against Qualcomm With a New 2-Nanometer Chip. What This Means for QCOM Stock.
1 Year Into the Microsoft Deal, IREN Is Delivering and a Rally May Follow Soon
#look
Instead of hitting you with my topical trade ideas, I'll get a little more nitty-gritty and into the weeds – explaining the what, why, how, and the real risk/reward math you need to know as a DIY manager of your own wealth.
Here's Another Little-Known Firm Jensen Huang's Nvidia Is Quietly Backing
MediaTek Is Stepping Up Competition Against Qualcomm With a New 2-Nanometer Chip. What This Means for QCOM Stock.
1 Year Into the Microsoft Deal, IREN Is Delivering and a Rally May Follow Soon
#look
2 months ago
Morgan Stanley has cut Novo Nordisk A/S (NYSE:NVO) to Underweight on September 11, 2026. Semaglutide, the underlying molecule for Wegovy and Ozempic, generates roughly 75% of 2026 revenue. Morgan Stanley models that it will still represent 59% of total sales when its patent protection expires in 2031. And according to the firm, the valuation does not price in the impact it has on Novo's terminal value. The stock, currently trading at 10.6x earnings and down 33% from its 52-week high, slipped another 2% following the call. At this point, the question isn't about whether the patent cliff is real or not, but whether the 10x multiple reflects an actual bargain.
Semaglutide loses exclusivity in Europe in 2031 and the US in 2032. And Morgan Stanley believes Novo's oral-obesity business, projected to reach $10 billion by 2031, could not offset the pricing collapse after the arrival of generics. Growth decelerates to a 4% compound rate between 2027 and 2030. If the deceleration continues, it will justify 10x earnings as a fair price instead of a cheap one.
The 10.6x multiple already prices aggressive pessimism into a market leader of one of the fastest-growing drug classes in history. Morgan Stanley fueled the pessimism by discounting a 2031 cliff five years earlier. However, pharmaceutical patent expirations frequently face extensions and prove difficult to time. Second, the ***** umption that oral obesity treatments cannot offset patent losses relies on oral semaglutide being the bridge. But Novo's next-generation portfolio, including CagriSema and amycretin, offers a significant defense against the patent cliff. This remains unproven, however, specifically after CagriSema's earlier weight-loss data failed to impress, yet Morgan Stanley's terminal-value model discounts this pipeline almost entirely. The company is also expanding its franchise. On September 7, the STEP Young trial hit its endpoint in children aged six to twelve, strengthening the base its successors inherit.
The smart money is leaning in. As per the Insider Monkey database, 59 hedge funds held NVO in the second quarter of 2026, up from 55 in the first, indicating a slight increase in the modest institutional interest in the stock. Short interest on the ADR is negligible at about 0.7%. The positioning reflects a beaten-down value stock quietly seeing institutional accumulation while Wall Street turns increasingly bearish.
#semaglutide #oral
Semaglutide loses exclusivity in Europe in 2031 and the US in 2032. And Morgan Stanley believes Novo's oral-obesity business, projected to reach $10 billion by 2031, could not offset the pricing collapse after the arrival of generics. Growth decelerates to a 4% compound rate between 2027 and 2030. If the deceleration continues, it will justify 10x earnings as a fair price instead of a cheap one.
The 10.6x multiple already prices aggressive pessimism into a market leader of one of the fastest-growing drug classes in history. Morgan Stanley fueled the pessimism by discounting a 2031 cliff five years earlier. However, pharmaceutical patent expirations frequently face extensions and prove difficult to time. Second, the ***** umption that oral obesity treatments cannot offset patent losses relies on oral semaglutide being the bridge. But Novo's next-generation portfolio, including CagriSema and amycretin, offers a significant defense against the patent cliff. This remains unproven, however, specifically after CagriSema's earlier weight-loss data failed to impress, yet Morgan Stanley's terminal-value model discounts this pipeline almost entirely. The company is also expanding its franchise. On September 7, the STEP Young trial hit its endpoint in children aged six to twelve, strengthening the base its successors inherit.
The smart money is leaning in. As per the Insider Monkey database, 59 hedge funds held NVO in the second quarter of 2026, up from 55 in the first, indicating a slight increase in the modest institutional interest in the stock. Short interest on the ADR is negligible at about 0.7%. The positioning reflects a beaten-down value stock quietly seeing institutional accumulation while Wall Street turns increasingly bearish.
#semaglutide #oral
2 months ago
A 2022 Nasdaq crash turned $10,000 into just $2,100 with TQQQ but preserved $3,900 with QLD's lower 2x leverage.
Recovering from TQQQ's 79% loss requires a 376% gain just to break even, making the extra leverage a costly bet.
QLD's 5-year annualized return of 17% beat TQQQ's 15% as volatility drag quietly eroded the extra leverage's advantage.
Just released. Our ****** ysts combed the entire stock market and named the ten best stocks to buy right now. The report is free. Enter your email and see if any of your stocks made the cut.
Leveraged ETFs have become an increasingly popular way to participate in the recent AI-driven technology boom. One such fund favored by investors and traders alike is the ProShares UltraPro QQQ (NASDAQ:TQQQ), an ETF that targets three times the Nasdaq's daily return. For investors who are uncomfortable with the 3x target, the ProShares Ultra QQQ (NYSEARCA:QLD) offers similar exposure but targets 2x the Nasdaq-100's daily move. When the Nasdaq is advancing higher, TQQQ seems like the obvious choice, but during a serious selloff, the reduced leverage of QLD can dramatically change the amount of capital left standing when the decline is over.
#leverage
Recovering from TQQQ's 79% loss requires a 376% gain just to break even, making the extra leverage a costly bet.
QLD's 5-year annualized return of 17% beat TQQQ's 15% as volatility drag quietly eroded the extra leverage's advantage.
Just released. Our ****** ysts combed the entire stock market and named the ten best stocks to buy right now. The report is free. Enter your email and see if any of your stocks made the cut.
Leveraged ETFs have become an increasingly popular way to participate in the recent AI-driven technology boom. One such fund favored by investors and traders alike is the ProShares UltraPro QQQ (NASDAQ:TQQQ), an ETF that targets three times the Nasdaq's daily return. For investors who are uncomfortable with the 3x target, the ProShares Ultra QQQ (NYSEARCA:QLD) offers similar exposure but targets 2x the Nasdaq-100's daily move. When the Nasdaq is advancing higher, TQQQ seems like the obvious choice, but during a serious selloff, the reduced leverage of QLD can dramatically change the amount of capital left standing when the decline is over.
#leverage
2 months ago
JEPI, DIVO, and GPIX each pay near 8% monthly yields while growing share price by writing calls on only a portion of holdings.
GPIX has beaten SPY with an 80% return since its 2023 launch by capping its options overlay at just 25 to 75% of the portfolio.
DIVO's tactical options sleeve delivers a lower 6% yield but drives 72% five-year price appreciation, nearly matching SPY's gains.
Two retirees, same $1 million, same 4% rule, buy one finished with $1.4 million, the other hit $0 in 12 years. Our free reader guide explains the flaw that separated them, and the income-first method built to avoid it.
Covered call ETFs have a reputation problem. For years, the category was defined by funds like QYLD and XYLD that wrote at-the-money calls on entire index portfolios, harvested rich premiums, and quietly bled principal every time markets rallied. Investors got their monthly check and watched their share price drift lower. That is the trap worth avoiding.
#gpix #calls #lower #years
GPIX has beaten SPY with an 80% return since its 2023 launch by capping its options overlay at just 25 to 75% of the portfolio.
DIVO's tactical options sleeve delivers a lower 6% yield but drives 72% five-year price appreciation, nearly matching SPY's gains.
Two retirees, same $1 million, same 4% rule, buy one finished with $1.4 million, the other hit $0 in 12 years. Our free reader guide explains the flaw that separated them, and the income-first method built to avoid it.
Covered call ETFs have a reputation problem. For years, the category was defined by funds like QYLD and XYLD that wrote at-the-money calls on entire index portfolios, harvested rich premiums, and quietly bled principal every time markets rallied. Investors got their monthly check and watched their share price drift lower. That is the trap worth avoiding.
#gpix #calls #lower #years
2 months ago
A $10,000 SPY investment at its 1993 launch would have compounded to $312,667 today, representing a 3,027% gain without adding a single dollar.
SPY's 0.0945% expense ratio costs roughly three times more than VOO or IVV, a gap that quietly compounds against long-term buy-and-hold investors.
RSP owns the same 500 stocks as SPY but weights each equally, cutting megacap dominance and serving as a hedge against a leadership rotation.
Two retirees, same $1 million, same 4% rule, buy one finished with $1.4 million, the other hit $0 in 12 years. Our free reader guide explains the flaw that separated them, and the income-first method built to avoid it.
A $10,000 stake placed in the SPDR S&P 500 ETF (NYSEARCA:SPY) on its opening day in January 1993 would be worth roughly $312,667 today. That works out to a 3,027% **** ulative gain, or about 10.8% a year compounded across 33 years. No stock picking, no market timing, no additional contributions.
#roughly #years #january
SPY's 0.0945% expense ratio costs roughly three times more than VOO or IVV, a gap that quietly compounds against long-term buy-and-hold investors.
RSP owns the same 500 stocks as SPY but weights each equally, cutting megacap dominance and serving as a hedge against a leadership rotation.
Two retirees, same $1 million, same 4% rule, buy one finished with $1.4 million, the other hit $0 in 12 years. Our free reader guide explains the flaw that separated them, and the income-first method built to avoid it.
A $10,000 stake placed in the SPDR S&P 500 ETF (NYSEARCA:SPY) on its opening day in January 1993 would be worth roughly $312,667 today. That works out to a 3,027% **** ulative gain, or about 10.8% a year compounded across 33 years. No stock picking, no market timing, no additional contributions.
#roughly #years #january
2 months ago
By Exec-Edge Editorial Staff
Sir Lynton Crosby has spent four decades reading public opinion for people who couldn't afford to get it wrong — prime ministers, presidents, and the boards of some of the world's largest companies. As Executive Chairman of CT Group, the research and strategy firm he co-founded, Crosby has built one of the most quietly influential shops in political and corporate consulting, with offices across eight countries and a client roster that spans government, industry, and advocacy. In recent years, CT Group has turned its research apparatus toward a subject closer to home for the business community it serves: capitalism itself, and why the system's public standing hasn't kept pace with its performance. We spoke with Crosby about what the firm's research found, and what it means for how business leaders talk about the system they operate in.
Exec Edge: CT Group ran a large-scale study on public attitudes toward capitalism. What prompted that?
We had seen a number of signals that some of the trending narratives on how the public felt about the predominant economic system were misleading. But we don't operate on feelings, but instead we respond to data, so we tested it. There's a narrative that's taken hold since the financial crisis — that the public has simply given up on capitalism, that a decade of scandals and populist politics has turned the average voter against the system outright. We fielded a nationally representative survey of 3,000 people, backed by focus groups, to find out if that was actually true or if something more specific was going on. It turned out to be the latter.
Exec Edge: What did the research actually find?
#edge #Research #turned
Sir Lynton Crosby has spent four decades reading public opinion for people who couldn't afford to get it wrong — prime ministers, presidents, and the boards of some of the world's largest companies. As Executive Chairman of CT Group, the research and strategy firm he co-founded, Crosby has built one of the most quietly influential shops in political and corporate consulting, with offices across eight countries and a client roster that spans government, industry, and advocacy. In recent years, CT Group has turned its research apparatus toward a subject closer to home for the business community it serves: capitalism itself, and why the system's public standing hasn't kept pace with its performance. We spoke with Crosby about what the firm's research found, and what it means for how business leaders talk about the system they operate in.
Exec Edge: CT Group ran a large-scale study on public attitudes toward capitalism. What prompted that?
We had seen a number of signals that some of the trending narratives on how the public felt about the predominant economic system were misleading. But we don't operate on feelings, but instead we respond to data, so we tested it. There's a narrative that's taken hold since the financial crisis — that the public has simply given up on capitalism, that a decade of scandals and populist politics has turned the average voter against the system outright. We fielded a nationally representative survey of 3,000 people, backed by focus groups, to find out if that was actually true or if something more specific was going on. It turned out to be the latter.
Exec Edge: What did the research actually find?
#edge #Research #turned
2 months ago
If you're trying to build a consumer-focused corner of your portfolio that can grow through a lot of different economic backdrops, three names stand out right now: Church & Dwight Co. (NYSE: CHD), YETI Holdings (NYSE: YETI), and Newell Brands (NASDAQ: NWL). Each of these is making deliberate moves in 2026 and into 2027 that communicate to me more about their future than any single rocky quarter's earnings line.
Missed Nvidia in 2009? This Rare Signal Is Flashing Again. In 2009, a "Double Down" signal flashed for a little-known chipmaker called Nvidia. For the first time in years, that same "Total Conviction" signal is flashing for a company 1/100th the size of Nvidia. Continue »
Church & Dwight has built its identity on everyday products like baking soda, laundry detergents, and cleaners that quietly show up in millions of homes. In May 2026, it moved to deepen that footprint by buying the Miss Mouth's Messy Eater brand, a fast-growing, non-toxic stain remover built for parents. It's a small thing on paper, but it fits this successful company's patterns: Keep layering niche, repeat-use products into an existing distribution machine instead of chasing flashy new categories.
The company's first-quarter 2026 update backs that strategy up. Organic sales rose 5% even though reported net sales were basically flat due to past portfolio pruning, per company management. Management described 2026 as a year of "volume-driven" organic growth, meaning they're focused on selling more units to real customers, not just leaning on price increases. On top of that, Church & Dwight extended its long dividend record yet again. Although it is not quite a Dividend King, it has consistently raised its dividend for 29 years.
For investors, my advice here is straightforward: Treat Church & Dwight as a core holding in a consumer bucket. It's unlikely to deliver fireworks in a single year, but it keeps making acquisitions to deepen its understanding of existing categories.
#flashing #organic
Missed Nvidia in 2009? This Rare Signal Is Flashing Again. In 2009, a "Double Down" signal flashed for a little-known chipmaker called Nvidia. For the first time in years, that same "Total Conviction" signal is flashing for a company 1/100th the size of Nvidia. Continue »
Church & Dwight has built its identity on everyday products like baking soda, laundry detergents, and cleaners that quietly show up in millions of homes. In May 2026, it moved to deepen that footprint by buying the Miss Mouth's Messy Eater brand, a fast-growing, non-toxic stain remover built for parents. It's a small thing on paper, but it fits this successful company's patterns: Keep layering niche, repeat-use products into an existing distribution machine instead of chasing flashy new categories.
The company's first-quarter 2026 update backs that strategy up. Organic sales rose 5% even though reported net sales were basically flat due to past portfolio pruning, per company management. Management described 2026 as a year of "volume-driven" organic growth, meaning they're focused on selling more units to real customers, not just leaning on price increases. On top of that, Church & Dwight extended its long dividend record yet again. Although it is not quite a Dividend King, it has consistently raised its dividend for 29 years.
For investors, my advice here is straightforward: Treat Church & Dwight as a core holding in a consumer bucket. It's unlikely to deliver fireworks in a single year, but it keeps making acquisitions to deepen its understanding of existing categories.
#flashing #organic
2 months ago
TIPS held in taxable brokerage accounts generate phantom income from inflation-adjusted principal, potentially pushing up to 85% of Social Security benefits into taxable income.
30-year TIPS currently yield 2.96% above inflation, but account placement determines how much of that real return retirees actually keep after taxes.
Holding TIPS inside a traditional IRA defers inflation-adjustment taxation until withdrawal, shielding annual principal increases from the Social Security provisional income formula.
Two retirees, same $1 million, same 4% rule, buy one finished with $1.4 million, the other hit $0 in 12 years. Our free reader guide explains the flaw that separated them, and the income-first method built to avoid it.
A 71-year-old retiree did what the textbooks suggest. He built a ladder of Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities in his brokerage account to keep inflation from quietly eating away at retirement. The timing looks unusually attractive. As of August 28, Treasury's real-yield curve put 10-year TIPS at 2.42% and 30-year TIPS at 2.96%. Those are yields above inflation for an investor buying at current market prices and holding to maturity. That 2.96% is a real yield, meaning it sits on top of the inflation adjustment rather than competing with the inflation rate itself.
#real #taxable
30-year TIPS currently yield 2.96% above inflation, but account placement determines how much of that real return retirees actually keep after taxes.
Holding TIPS inside a traditional IRA defers inflation-adjustment taxation until withdrawal, shielding annual principal increases from the Social Security provisional income formula.
Two retirees, same $1 million, same 4% rule, buy one finished with $1.4 million, the other hit $0 in 12 years. Our free reader guide explains the flaw that separated them, and the income-first method built to avoid it.
A 71-year-old retiree did what the textbooks suggest. He built a ladder of Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities in his brokerage account to keep inflation from quietly eating away at retirement. The timing looks unusually attractive. As of August 28, Treasury's real-yield curve put 10-year TIPS at 2.42% and 30-year TIPS at 2.96%. Those are yields above inflation for an investor buying at current market prices and holding to maturity. That 2.96% is a real yield, meaning it sits on top of the inflation adjustment rather than competing with the inflation rate itself.
#real #taxable
2 months ago
QQQI holders forfeited roughly $11 per share in total return versus QQQ over 31 months, equal to about $2,194 on a $10,000 stake.
Nearly 99% of QQQI's 2025 distributions were return of capital, meaning investors received their own money back, not income, with a shrinking cost basis.
QQQM and JEPQ serve as alternative ways to access the same underlying index.
Read More: Learn 7 secret wealth tips high net worth investors use that most investors miss (sponsor)
Every month, a NEOS Nasdaq-100 High Income ETF (NASDAQ:QQQI) holder gets a distribution check. In August 2026, it was $0.6518 per share. The annualized forward rate sits at $7.8216. The check feels like income, but the total-return record tells a different story. Since QQQI's first ex-dividend date, holders have quietly foregone roughly $10.97 per share in total return compared to a matching Nasdaq-100 position that costs a fraction to own.
#high
Nearly 99% of QQQI's 2025 distributions were return of capital, meaning investors received their own money back, not income, with a shrinking cost basis.
QQQM and JEPQ serve as alternative ways to access the same underlying index.
Read More: Learn 7 secret wealth tips high net worth investors use that most investors miss (sponsor)
Every month, a NEOS Nasdaq-100 High Income ETF (NASDAQ:QQQI) holder gets a distribution check. In August 2026, it was $0.6518 per share. The annualized forward rate sits at $7.8216. The check feels like income, but the total-return record tells a different story. Since QQQI's first ex-dividend date, holders have quietly foregone roughly $10.97 per share in total return compared to a matching Nasdaq-100 position that costs a fraction to own.
#high
2 months ago
VYMI outran SCHY 29% to 23% over the past year while charging a lower 0.07% fee and covering both developed and emerging markets.
IDV delivers the highest yield at 5%, but its 0.50% expense ratio is seven times VYMI's fee, eroding long-term accumulation returns.
SCHY holders switching to VYMI in taxable accounts should check cost basis first, since many carry embedded gains after 2026's international rally.
Read More: Learn 7 ways to generate income with a $1,000,000+ portfolio (sponsor)
SCHD holders reaching for international diversification usually land on one name first: Schwab International Dividend Equity ETF (NYSEARCA:SCHY), built on the same Dow Jones dividend-quality methodology that made the Schwab U.S. Dividend Equity ETF (NYSEARCA:SCHD) a portfolio staple. SCHY looks like SCHD's international twin because Schwab designed it that way. However, three deep-pocketed rivals from Vanguard, Fidelity, and BlackRock now compete for the same wallet share, and one has quietly outrun SCHY on nearly every metric that matters to a SCHD-style investor.
#international #schwab
IDV delivers the highest yield at 5%, but its 0.50% expense ratio is seven times VYMI's fee, eroding long-term accumulation returns.
SCHY holders switching to VYMI in taxable accounts should check cost basis first, since many carry embedded gains after 2026's international rally.
Read More: Learn 7 ways to generate income with a $1,000,000+ portfolio (sponsor)
SCHD holders reaching for international diversification usually land on one name first: Schwab International Dividend Equity ETF (NYSEARCA:SCHY), built on the same Dow Jones dividend-quality methodology that made the Schwab U.S. Dividend Equity ETF (NYSEARCA:SCHD) a portfolio staple. SCHY looks like SCHD's international twin because Schwab designed it that way. However, three deep-pocketed rivals from Vanguard, Fidelity, and BlackRock now compete for the same wallet share, and one has quietly outrun SCHY on nearly every metric that matters to a SCHD-style investor.
#international #schwab
