WSJ Your Money Briefing

Many young professionals are now choosing to join family businesses, driven by economic challenges and evolving societal norms. The stigma around these jobs is fading, with personal stories highlighting both emotional connections and practical benefits. One graduate shares his journey from music to web consulting, showcasing how family ties can be advantageous. The podcast dives into the dynamics of working with relatives, where skills are matched to roles, and networking becomes intertwined with family relationships.

Ray Smith, a Wall Street Journal reporter, discusses the rising trend of workers packing lunches amid soaring food prices. He reveals how this shift saves money but adversely affects local restaurants. The conversation delves into the financial perks of homemade meals against the costs of dining out, and the challenges of meal prep, like monotony. Ray also shares tips for creating enjoyable, sustainable packed lunches that strike a balance between health and indulgence, making lunchtime both economical and exciting.

Eli Lilly's stock skyrockets after promising news from a weight-loss drug trial. In contrast, UnitedHealth faces declines due to rising costs in the Medicare sector. Meanwhile, Netflix is setting its sights on an ambitious $1 trillion market cap. Join as the host breaks down these fascinating shifts in the market and explains what’s driving these significant stock moves.

With an ongoing trade war and a volatile stock market, some cautious investors are opting to keep their cash on hand. Wall Street Journal reporter Krystal Hur joins host Julia Carpenter to discuss the cash investments gaining traction.  Sign up for the WSJ's free Markets A.M. newsletter.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Market volatility can actually offer tax benefits! Discover how tax loss harvesting can offset your gains and ease your tax burden. Learn the complexities of managing retirement accounts in unstable markets, including the advantages of Roth IRA conversions. Find out why ongoing awareness of tax obligations is crucial and how year-round tax planning can help you navigate financial decisions wisely. Tune in for a guide to optimizing your finances amidst market chaos!

The podcast dives into how recent market volatility is reshaping the real estate landscape. With rising mortgage rates, homeowners and buyers face tough decisions. Strategies for navigating these challenges are discussed, especially the importance of budgeting and job stability. The impact of regional market variations is highlighted, as well as the struggles for lower-income homeowners. Listeners learn about the complexities of refinancing and the risks of becoming 'house poor' amidst financial uncertainty.

Recent market turbulence has dramatically affected college savings for many families. Experts share strategies for managing 529 plans during these volatile times. They discuss how to adjust investments based on children's ages to secure future education funds. Parents are encouraged to stay calm and make informed decisions amidst uncertainty, ensuring they can navigate financial challenges effectively. Tips for maximizing financial aid opportunities are also highlighted, offering practical advice for safeguarding educational investments.

After a tumultuous week in the stock market, uncertainty lingers due to tariffs. Experts share crucial strategies for individual investors, highlighting the need for patience and a long-term perspective. They caution against the impulsive urge to constantly check portfolios, advocating for tax loss harvesting. The discussion also emphasizes the importance of timing in rebalancing investments and using tactics like dollar cost averaging. Finally, effective cash management techniques are explored to weather ongoing market instability.

Nicole Friedman, a Wall Street Journal reporter specializing in the U.S. housing market, joins the discussion on major challenges facing prospective homebuyers. She highlights how tariffs are driving up material costs, contributing to housing unaffordability. Rising mortgage rates and labor shortages also complicate new home construction. The conversation dives into the emotional toll economic uncertainties have on consumer confidence, illustrating how these factors intertwine to shape the future of the housing market.

This discussion dives into the paradox of banks reporting higher profits while signaling a looming recession risk. It explores the impact of President Trump’s tariff announcements on CarMax and the automotive industry. Additionally, the podcast highlights the impressive rise in Delta’s shares, uncovering the factors behind their market success. Expect insights into the chaotic financial landscape and how it shapes the stock movements that capture investor attention.