Inflation presents significant financial challenges for retirees living on fixed incomes, as rising costs strain budgets. Although Social Security has a Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) built in, Social Security was never meant to be your only source of income after retirement, but rather it was intended to supplement your other retirement income. This article will explore key areas most affected by inflation, such as food, energy, healthcare, and discretionary spending, and provide practical tips to help you adapt. For those planning to retire in 2024 or the next few years, identifying and managing everyday expenses is more important than ever to maintain financial stability. #1 Keeping … [Read more...]
Inflation Causes Inequality
By Lenart Wagemans Many claim the problem with fractional reserve banking is that it loans money into existence. It does, but under normal circumstances, the money created by commercial banks disappears when loans are repaid or defaulted on, which therefore doesn’t create a permanent inflation of the money supply. Government intervention, however, converts temporary money into permanent money through bailouts like the Troubled Asset Relief Program. They purchase loans that would have been defaulted on, preventing the evaporation of credit. When banks hold loans that are at risk of default, they face having to write them off, which would remove this part of the money supply. Bailouts turn … [Read more...]
Navigating High Inflation: Should You Buy, Sell, or Hold Off on Real Estate?
It’s no secret that inflation is high nowadays. While the rate of inflation is significantly lower today than it was in 2022, it’s still sitting at about 3%; which is higher than the FED’s stated goal of 2%. Although, FED Chairman Jerome Powell has hinted that he now considers the range of 2% to 3% acceptable... so he might consider lowering interest rates. But currently, interest rates are considerably higher than they have been over the last decade, which causes higher costs for those interested in buying property. For homebuyers, real estate investors, and brokers inflation is lower than 2022’s record of 9.1% but it is still concerning. Inflation affects various aspects of the real … [Read more...]
If Trump Won the 2020 Election Would Inflation Be Lower?
I recently saw this question on Quora and thought it was interesting. It made me think. Does the President control inflation? My first thought was that inflation is controlled by the FED printing money or perhaps by Congress spending money, but how much difference does the President make? Then I read the following response by Valerie Rhea who graciously gave me permission to reprint her response here. Valerie is a Thirty-something PhD economist, and former military pilot, with a law degree. So, she has an interesting background and is well qualified to answer this question. Here is her response. ~ Tim McMahon, editor Inflation is always and everywhere a monetary issue" If … [Read more...]
How Social Security Tax and Inflation Affect Couples’ Retirement
Planning for retirement is an essential part of couples' financial management. As life expectancy increases and healthcare costs rise, ensuring that you have sufficient funds to maintain your lifestyle during retirement has become more critical than ever. Two major factors that can significantly impact retirement income are Social Security tax and inflation. Many people don't realize that Social Security income can be taxable, (which doesn't seem right since Social Security was a "tax" from your income to start with). Understanding how these elements affect your financial future can help you make more informed decisions and better prepare for the years ahead. What is Social Security … [Read more...]
How Inflation Is Reshaping the Job Market for New Entrants
As you enter the workforce, there are myriad challenges and strategies to navigate — particularly around finding a job in the first place. Inflation rates only complicate this intricate dance you are doing to land a career as a recent graduate or new professional on the scene. Whether you’re sure or unsure about your career path, there are plenty of opportunities to be found in the current job market. Although the rate of rising prices changes things a bit, there are ways to be savvy about the system and land the job of your dreams. The Current State of Inflation and Wages There always seems to be a debate over whether or not wages are keeping up with inflation. However, it’s not always a … [Read more...]
4 Key Factors to Consider When Hedging Against Inflation
The FED's target yearly inflation rate in the U.S. is about 2%, but the long term average is more like 3% and depending on ongoing economic conditions, this rate can significantly increase, affecting the financial health of individuals across the country. Though keeping an eye on the economy can help you make decisions to brace against the impact of inflation, developing sound investments can help you protect your wealth no matter the rate. Take a look below for a few central items to consider when preserving your finances against inflation. Diversify your Portfolio Portfolio diversification is crucial for maintaining optimal financial health. Your investments should vary in asset class … [Read more...]
Navigating Economic Turbulence: How Inflationary Pressures Drive Payment Fraud Trends
This article is a bit beyond the scope of our typical article but is presented for those who want to delve into the murky waters of this issue. For a lighter look at scams and modern solutions, you might enjoy The Modern Day Wild West: Crypto Scams And Opportunities. ~Tim McMahon, editor. In an era of perpetually shifting economic landscapes, it is important for businesses and consumers alike to understand the nuances of inflationary pressures. As inflation distorts purchasing power, various vulnerabilities emerge and so fraudsters can exploit the emerging vulnerabilities, leading to sophisticated scams. Navigating these turbulent waters requires a keen understanding of the evolving … [Read more...]
Hyperinflation- How a Trickle Can Turn into a Flood
In 1903, a lawyer in Germany took out an insurance policy and made payments on it faithfully. When the policy came due in twenty years, he cashed it in and bought a single loaf of bread with the proceeds. He was fortunate. If he had waited a few days longer, the money he received would have bought no more than a few crumbs. Germany had been on the usual fractional reserve gold standard prior to World War I, with the Reichsbank—its central bank—expanding the money supply at a “mild” 1–2 percent inflation rate. When war broke out in 1914, the government followed the standard policy of deficit spending rather than attempting to raise taxes. The Reichsbank’s role was to monetize the … [Read more...]
Industries Most Affected by Inflation: Insights from the Global Supply Chain
Inflation has rocked the world in recent years. The pandemic, global conflict, and dramatic changes in consumer spending caused inflation to spike to 11.1% worldwide before retreating. High inflation rates are, of course, bad for consumers. However, unpredictable inflationary pressures can also have a devastating effect on businesses. Entire industries suffered significant setbacks due to the supply-side issues that drove up costs and squeezed firms’ profit margins. Supply Chain and Inflation Understanding the link between the global supply chain and inflation is easy: when supply chains are distributed, supplier’s costs increase. As long as demand remains constant or grows, these … [Read more...]
