CATEGORIES
The Appeal of Mortgage Bonds
Recall the line from Hamlet imploring us to neither a borrower nor a lender be? Shakespeare was spot-on about so much, but not credit. Lenders do hold the stronger hand. A 30-year, fixed-rate mortgage, with the principal guaranteed by the Federal Housing Administration, currently originates at 6.6%, marking an unusually big spread over the 30-year Treasury bond’s yield, now 3.9%. Even Series I savings bonds are down from 9.6% to 4.3% and are set to shrink again in November. (Yields and other data are as of June 30.)
Pick Businesses, Not Stocks
WARREN Buffett, the chairman of Berkshire Hathaway, is the most successful investor of our time. His daughter, Susan, worked as my assistant when I was publisher of a magazine 40 years ago. Just before she got married, Susie told me she worried that her fiancé’s parents had bought a couple shares of Berkshire stock—and what if it tanked? At the time, the price was about $1,000 a share. Today, it’s $507,000 a share. I hope the in-laws hung on.
Three Cheers for Grandkids!
Thanks to reader contributions to this column, I have been able to write about what makes a satisfying retirement—everything from socializing to finding a sense of purpose. But reader Nicholas Constantakis has taken me to task for not putting enough emphasis on what he considers the “real joy of retirement”: grandchildren.
Fixing Your Relationship With Money
This psychologist helps clients address complex issues involving their finances.
How to Redeem Savings Bonds
Whether you bought savings bonds during inflation’s peak last year or have older bonds collecting dust, take these steps to cash them in.
Celebrating 100 Years of The Kiplinger Letter
Editor emeritus Knight Kiplinger reflects on an enduring legacy of clear-eyed, unbiased journalism.
What Hospice Patients Can Teach Us About Money
As you build wealth, include your life's purpose and meaning in the framework.
The High Costs of Caregiving
Caring for aging parents can exact a financial and emotional toll on adult children.
CORD CUTTING MADE EASY
With an expanding menu of streaming services, saying goodbye to your cable company's entertainment options has never been easier.
AN INHERITANCE WITH STRINGS ATTACHED
New rules for inherited IRAs could leave some heirs with a hefty tax bill.
Defusing Financial Flash Points
MONEY SMART WOMEN
HOW TO INVEST IN AI
It's too early to pick the ultimate winners in artificial intelligence, and it's already expensive to get in on the ground floor. But these companies stand to benefit from the boom.
Is Your Insurance Coverage Up to Date?
Costs are rising to repair or replace your most valuable assets. Make sure your home and vehicles are adequately insured.
What It Takes to Buy Insurance in Florida
Kiplinger editor Elaine Silvestrini shares her story.
8 great places to retire-for renters
With home prices inflated and mortgage rates rising, we provide enticing options for retirees who would rather rent than buy
THE NON-EV BUYER'S GUIDE
Your next car doesn’t have to be electric. We found six gas-powered vehicles that will take you well into the future
THE DEBT CEILING PACT IS UNLIKELY TO TRIGGER A RECESSION
The deal won’t dampen economic growth, but it fails to address long-term fiscal problems
THE PROMISE AND PERILS OF AI
As artificial intelligence rapidly evolves, here are the likely implications for your job and your money
You'll Pay More to Shop in These States
Combined state and local sales taxes can add up to 10% to the cost of some purchases
Protect Yourself When the Market Turns Frantic
Low-volatility ETFs aim to smooth stock gyrations
The Staying Power of Luxury Companies
Here’s how to cash in on businesses that cater to big spenders
Investing Jargon, Explained
We define some of the most frequently searched investment terms
Calculate Your Net Worth
Crunching the numbers on your assets and liabilities can help you maintain your financial security. Find out where you stand
Lock In a Great Deal on a Fall Vacation
Prices will be lower than during the summer rush, and you’ll encounter fewer crowds and milder weather
THE INVESTMENT STRATEGY YOU NEED NOW
Use our guide to find the best portfolio mix for you
FIGHT BACK AGAINST FRAUD AND IDENTITY THEFT
Scammers are using advanced technology as well as classic methods to swindle their victims. Stay a step ahead with these nine moves.
HIGH YIELD SAVINGS: How to Buy Treasury Securities
Rates on short-term bills are generous, with no risk.
WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT EV TAX CREDITS
INFORMATION ABOUT THE MARKETS AND YOUR MONEY.
CUT YOUR SOCIAL SECURITY
Many retirees are dismayed to learn that they owe taxes on a portion of their benefits. But you can take steps to minimize the pain.
PAYING IT FORWARD: A Guide for the College Journey
ScholarMatch helps low-income students make it all the way to graduation.