WSJ Your Money Briefing

Heightened anxiety over Social Security has Americans rushing to claim benefits earlier than expected. Concerns about fraud and operational issues are eroding public trust, creating a sense of urgency. Many seniors are driven by fears of financial instability and the program's uncertain future. This trend could have lasting implications for retirement income and surviving spouses, prompting a complex decision-making process for those opting to claim early.

Kyla Scanlon, a social-media content creator and economic commentator known for coining 'vibecession', joins to shed light on how Gen Z navigates financial advice on platforms like TikTok and Instagram. The conversation includes how meme stocks and cryptocurrencies have reshaped investment behaviors, often blurring the lines with gambling. Scanlon emphasizes the need for credible sources and media literacy to filter out misinformation, all while bringing humor to complex economic topics. Tune in for valuable insights on engaging with modern finance!

Investors are buzzing over Disney's successful Middle East expansion, which has significantly boosted its shares. Meanwhile, Cleveland-Cliffs is facing challenges with operations slowing down, reflecting a drop in stock value. On a more upbeat note, Boeing has seen a stock climb thanks to a recent U.S.-U.K. trade agreement that promises new business opportunities. Tune in to catch the latest market trends and corporate highlights!

Auto demand is soaring, but lenders are tightening standards, leaving some potential buyers frustrated. Tariffs from previous administrations are expected to drive prices even higher, forcing shoppers to make tough choices. The ongoing impact of the pandemic has exacerbated lending difficulties, with rising auto loan rates complicating decisions. Practical tips for navigating this challenging landscape include seeking co-signers and exploring credit unions, all while avoiding the traps of high interest loans.

Exploring college savings can be more than just 529 plans. Alternatives like UGMA and UTMA accounts offer flexibility and unique tax benefits. Brokerage accounts and Roth IRAs are also discussed, shedding light on their potential alongside financial aid implications. Unique strategies, such as using whole life insurance policies, are examined for long-term funding solutions. The discussion encourages parents to weigh various options and develop a multifaceted approach to planning for their child's education.

Millennials are redefining wealth-building as they navigate a fluctuating economic landscape. The top 5% of earners outshine baby boomers, but significant income disparities persist. Shifts in career paths reveal challenges in traditional fields like law, while tech and finance thrive. Personal stories highlight the profound impact of the 2008 recession, affecting ambition and education. Moreover, housing affordability and childcare costs further complicate financial stability, revealing a complex tapestry of experiences within this generation.

Jeanne Whalen, a Wall Street Journal reporter, shares insights on the surprising resilience of the U.S. economy amidst tariff changes and trade war threats. The conversation highlights how strong GDP and employment figures defy fears of recession, despite recent economic contractions. Whalen discusses consumer concerns about tariffs and their potential impact on confidence and product availability. Listeners will discover contrasting views on economic health, showcasing the underlying strength of the American economy despite uncertainty.

Discover how AI tools from Salesforce, LinkedIn, and Google are reshaping career advice for job seekers. Experts discuss the strengths and shortcomings of these innovations, focusing on the balance between technology and human touch. Hear testimonials on AI platforms that match skills with job opportunities. Learn how free tools like ChatGPT can guide career exploration and the importance of specificity in job applications. Finally, explore the challenges posed by today’s job market and the role of AI in overcoming them.

Explore how a Chinese company's advancements in AI chips are shaking up Nvidia's dominance. Dive into the implications of recent tech earnings amidst ongoing trade tensions. Discover how economic uncertainty is reshaping customer behavior at McDonald's, affecting their sales and strategy. Join the discussion on the latest significant market movements that reflect these challenges.

CEOs are leaving their roles at unprecedented rates, sparking a debate about corporate culture and leadership quality. Many mid-level managers are reluctant to step into the C-suite due to the associated headaches. This trend reflects a growing demand for work-life balance among executives and younger workers' changing priorities. The discussion highlights how these shifts impact organizational stability and career trajectories, emphasizing the need for companies to rethink what makes leadership roles attractive.