A new study from Wharton researchers James Li, Olivia Mitchell, and Christina Zhu reveals an uncomfortable truth for American families: 67% of 529 college savings accounts — holding 71% of all assets — are in suboptimal plans. In plain English, most families are paying too much in fees, missing out on tax advantages, or both.

In recent years, trading apps like Robinhood have transformed investing for younger generations. With zero‑commission trades, instant account setups, and polished interfaces, they lower barriers like never before. But when ease of access meets gamified design, the results can be unsettling, especially for first-time investors.

The private equity (PE) industry is circling America’s retirement accounts like a predator eyeing a new food source. With $12.2 trillion in 401(k)s and related plans, even a sliver could mean billions in new fees for fund managers.

Fun or financial trap? In 2024, Americans wagered nearly $150 billion on sports betting, and one in four bettors reported missing a bill payment because of their wagers.

How prepared are you if there was a financial emergency According to the recently published National Financial Capability Study, only 36 percent of young adults (ages 18–34) report having set aside three months’ worth of living expenses in an emergency fund.

Personal finance is about more than just money—it’s about freedom, clarity, and the confidence to make wise life decisions. Yet today, those decisions are becoming increasingly complex.

Financial markets have become increasingly complex, making it difficult for individual investors to navigate successfully on their own. Investors often face the question of whether hiring a financial advisor truly provides enough value to justify the fees.

This article explores how financial headlines influence investor behavior, often exacerbating emotional decision-making and undermining long-term investment outcomes.

We live in a world of complex economic forces, but at the heart of many of today’s big-picture challenges lies a simple truth: a country cannot indefinitely consume more than it produces. That is precisely what the United States has been doing for decades through the persistent and growing trade deficit.

Volatile markets test more than portfolios—they test patience. It’s easy to feel unsettled when headlines scream, and market volatility ensues. But the most important thing you can do as an investor is also the simplest: don’t let emotions get the best of you. 

In the financial services industry, the concept of acting as a fiduciary—putting the client’s best interests ahead of all else—has become a litmus test for ethical practice. However, determining how many financial professionals truly operate under a fee-only fiduciary model reveals a significant gap between perception and reality.