Todays

How Your Wealth Really Compares to Today’s Retirees

How Your Wealth Really Compares to Today’s Retirees

Key Takeaways Fed data shows retirees average almost $288,000 in net worth, boosted in recent years by significant gains in home values and investments. Retirees’ finances vary widely, with balances on mortgages, auto loans, and credit cards influencing outcomes as much as assets do. Protecting wealth in retirement often means earning strong yields, managing spending […]

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I’m 61 and need $50,000 for home repairs. Should I borrow given today’s rates or take a withdrawal from my $950,000 401(k)?

I'm 61 and need $50,000 for home repairs. Should I borrow given today's rates or take a withdrawal from my $950,000 401(k)?

Question: I’m 61 with a $950,000 401(k) and need $50,000 for home repairs. Should I borrow given today’s rates or take a 401(k) withdrawal? Answer: The nice thing about owning a home is getting to build equity in a place that’s yours. Eventually, that could mean cashing in that equity to improve your financial life,

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Today’s Average 30-Year Mortgage Rate in Every State

Today’s Average 30-Year Mortgage Rate in Every State

Key Takeaways Mortgage rates recently hit an almost 13-month low before inching higher again, currently averaging 6.48% nationwide. The latest data show Kentucky with the lowest rates, while mortgages were priciest in Hawaii. Our map shows the average in every state. Because rate timing is tough to predict, buyers are often better off purchasing when

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Mortgage Rates Near 2-Month Highs After Today’s Econ Data

Mortgage Rates Near 2-Month Highs After Today's Econ Data

A common recent refrain is that the bond market (which dictates interest rates) is having to make do without many of the most important regularly-scheduled economic reports due to the government shutdown. While this means rates must “fly blind” on many of the days that would normally coincide with these government economic reports, there are

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How Today’s Americans Redefine Life After Work

How Today’s Americans Redefine Life After Work

Key Takeaways The traditional retirement model at 65 is no longer the norm. Many workers today retire in stages, sometimes referred to as phased or micro-retirements. Working in retirement is increasingly common, whether through part-time jobs, consulting, or passion projects. There is no one “right” way to retire. Use tools like lifestyle audits, vision planning,

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Understanding Bonds in Today’s Market

Understanding Bonds in Today's Market

Join Ryan Nauman on the Adjusted for Risk Podcast, recorded live from the Morningstar Investment Conference. Ryan welcomes guest Warren Pierson, Co-CIO at Baird Advisors, to discuss the evolving bond market, interest rates, and investment strategies. They explore topics such as the current excitement around bonds, the role of corporate credit and municipal bonds, the

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The 28% Rule for Housing: Does It Still Work in Today’s Market?

Hands counting money over a calculator

When you’re buying a home, one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll make is figuring out how much mortgage you can truly afford. Mortgage affordability is about how much you can borrow and repay without straining your budget, and the 28% rule offers a simple guideline to help ensure your mortgage stays within reach. But

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