WSJ Your Money Briefing

Anne Tergesen, a retirement reporter for the Wall Street Journal, discusses the encouraging trend of Americans saving nearly the recommended 15% for retirement. She highlights how employer contributions and automatic enrollment in 401(k) plans are driving this progress. Tergesen also examines generational savings patterns, noting the resilience of baby boomers and Gen Xers as they approach retirement. Additionally, she shares practical strategies like automatic escalation to help maximize retirement savings effortlessly.

Join WSJ contributor Joann S. Lublin, an expert on divorce-related financial pitfalls, as she shares crucial insights to avoid costly mistakes during separation. She discusses five major financial traps that can derail your post-divorce life, including the dangers of hidden assets and mismanaging cash flow. Lublin emphasizes the importance of understanding both liquid and illiquid assets and highlights the emotional complexities of divorce, suggesting it should be approached with a clear, business-like mindset.

Jacob Passy, a Wall Street Journal reporter specializing in personal finance, shares insightful strategies on passing down airline rewards points. He discusses why these valuable points often get overlooked in estate plans and how to rethink that approach. Listeners learn about airline policies regarding point transfers and the importance of sharing account logins to secure access for heirs. Passy emphasizes the emotional and financial implications of these rewards, especially for baby boomers approaching retirement.

Elon Musk's clash with President Trump sends shockwaves through Tesla's stock. Meanwhile, tariff news gives a surprising boost to steelmaker Cleveland-Cliffs. Dollar General sees a surge, fueled by savvy bargain hunters adapting to the economy. The podcast dives into the dynamic play between market feuds, rising tariffs, and shifting consumer spending habits that shape today's financial landscape.

Jason Zweig, a columnist at WSJ's The Intelligent Investor, provides insights into overcoming the fear of investing during turbulent market conditions. He discusses the psychological barriers that keep investors on the sidelines and offers strategies for re-entering the market. Zweig emphasizes the importance of a long-term investment perspective, drawing from 80 years of market cycles. He also tackles hindsight bias, encouraging listeners to adjust their stock allocations thoughtfully, and highlights the wealth-building potential of strategic investing, especially for younger investors.

Health savings accounts (HSAs) could become more accessible for millions under a new Republican bill. The proposed changes may allow couples to contribute more and enable tax-free withdrawals for fitness expenses. Comparisons are made between HSAs and Flexible Savings Accounts (FSAs), highlighting their benefits and tax advantages. The discussion also dives into new eligibility rules for young adults and spousal contributions. Stay informed about these exciting developments in healthcare finance!

The discussion dives into the complexities of GLP-1 weight-loss drugs, like Ozempic and Wegovy, highlighting their high out-of-pocket costs, often exceeding $1,000 monthly. It unpacks the disparities in pricing and accessibility, revealing why some consumers face steeper prices than others. The conversation also examines current employer coverage rates, with only 36% providing support, and speculates on the future of drug pricing amid potential Medicare changes and the introduction of generics.

In this discussion, Jason Zweig, the Intelligent Investor columnist for The Wall Street Journal, warns against the perils of investing too heavily in a single stock, comparing it to the risks of falling too deep into a romantic relationship. He explores the balance between concentrated investments and diversification, arguing that while some successful investors thrive on big bets, most should stick to a varied approach. Zweig also highlights the dangers of overconfidence and the importance of self-awareness in managing a healthy investment portfolio.

Condominium owners are struggling with rising HOA fees and special assessments, making it tough to sell. Buyers can seize this moment for potential bargains, but must be savvy about the property’s financial obligations. A mortgage broker shares valuable insights on navigating the buying process, emphasizing the importance of understanding condo regulations. The market is seeing increased repair costs and new regulations, particularly after incidents like building collapses. The landscape is shifting, requiring sellers to invest in property enhancements to attract interested buyers.

Angelina Licari, a full-time online reseller, shares her journey in turning old clothes into a thriving business through platforms like Depop and Poshmark. She discusses effective strategies for maximizing sales, including the significance of appealing photography and detailed listings. The conversation highlights the balance between managing a successful online store and personal finances. Angelina also touches on the emotional challenges of entrepreneurship, emphasizing the need for patience and an adaptable sales approach.