Consumer 'Spending Hangover' Emerges as Retail Growth Projected to Slow to 1.5% in 2026
After holiday sales crossed $1 trillion for the first time, analysts warn of a spending hangover in 2026. Real consumer spending growth may slow to just 1.5%.
438 articles found for "passive income"
Consumer Sentiment Climbs to Five-Month High as Inflation Expectations Ease
The University of Michigan Consumer Sentiment Index rose to 56.4 in January, its highest level since August, as year-ahead inflation expectations fell to 4.0%.
U.S. Auto Sales Outlook 2026: Why 15.8 Million Vehicles May Be the New Normal
After Ford and GM posted solid 2025 results, the auto industry faces a more challenging 2026. Affordability issues, tariffs, and EV uncertainty cloud the outlook.
Core PCE Inflation Edges Toward 2% Target: Why the Fed Sees Light at the End of the Inflation Tunnel
New Fed analysis suggests underlying core PCE inflation has hovered close to 2% in recent months when volatile categories are excluded. What it means for interest rates.
Social Security's 2.8% COLA Gets Eaten by Medicare's 9.7% Premium Hike: What Retirees Need to Know
The 2026 Social Security cost-of-living adjustment adds $56 monthly for average retirees, but Medicare Part B premiums jumped $17.90. Here's how to navigate the squeeze.
Nebraska Unemployment Claims Spike 177% After Tyson Foods Plant Closure Devastates Rural Economy
The closure of Tyson Foods' Lexington beef processing plant has triggered a 177% spike in Nebraska unemployment claims, eliminating 3,200 jobs and dealing a $3.3 billion blow to the state's economy.
Tax Refund Season 2026: New IRS Rules Could Delay Your Money—Here's What to Know
The 2026 tax season brings new direct deposit requirements, IRS workforce cuts, and potential delays. Learn how to ensure your refund arrives on time.
IRS Faces 'Perfect Storm' as Tax Season Opens With 26% Fewer Workers
The IRS begins the 2026 filing season with 74,000 employees—down from 102,000 a year ago—while implementing major tax law changes. Here's what taxpayers should expect.
Medicare's $50 Obesity Drug Pilot Launches This Spring: What 10 Million Seniors Need to Know
A landmark Medicare pilot program will offer GLP-1 obesity drugs like Wegovy and Zepbound for just $50 per month starting this spring. Here's who qualifies and how to prepare.
Gas Prices Hit Lowest Level Since March 2021: What's Behind the Drop and How Long It Will Last
National gas prices fall to $2.82 per gallon, the lowest since March 2021. Experts expect 10-15% lower prices through 2026 as global oil supply outpaces demand.
The Great Value Migration: Why 40% of Americans Are Permanently Changing How They Shop
Four in ten Americans now demonstrate deal-driven shopping habits that retailers say represent a structural shift, not a temporary response to inflation. What it means for the economy.
Electricity Prices to Climb Another 4.2% in 2026: What Rising Energy Costs Mean for Your Budget
Residential electricity rates are rising 4.2% in 2026, continuing a troubling trend that has seen costs climb 36% since 2020. Here's what's driving the increase and how to protect your budget.