Black Friday 2025 smashed records with $11.8 billion in online sales — largely powered by AI shopping assistants. Now, with household debt at an all-time $18.59 trillion and delinquencies climbing, the same AI that drove the spending spree can help you get out of debt faster than ever.

Consumer debt delinquencies are rising across key loan types with student loans showing the sharpest spike after the end of COVID protections. A 90+ day delinquency signals serious financial strain. While the trend is concerning, borrowers do have tools that can help them understand their options and take control before things get worse.

According to new data from Zillow, 53% of U.S. homes have dropped in value over the past 12 months. This marks the highest level of depreciation since the housing recovery began more than a decade ago.

Many media outlets oversimplify home equity options, labeling loans like HELOCs as “cheap” and home equity investments (HEIs) as “risky.” But these claims often come from using the wrong math. When evaluated correctly, HEIs can be competitive with other loan products — especially when borrowers need flexibility or don’t qualify for traditional financing.

Home Equity Investments (HEIs) offer a no-income-verification alternative with no interest or monthly payments. Learn how they compare to traditional equity products and find the right fit for your financial goals.

When you price U.S. stocks in gold instead of dollars, the market’s glittering performance over the past 25 years dims. Gold has quietly outshined equities during one of the most turbulent stretches in modern investing. But zoom out, and the power of compounding, dividends, and long-term productivity puts stocks back on top.

Health savings accounts (HSAs) offer unmatched tax benefits for medical and retirement savings. In 2025, new legislation expanded access and added flexibility. While some changes take effect immediately, others begin in 2026—making this savings tool even more powerful for the years ahead.

Younger generations are rethinking the American dream of homeownership. Faced with high property prices, elevated mortgage rates, and a booming stock market, many Gen Z and millennials are choosing to rent and invest instead of buying a home. This shift has broad implications for wealth-building, real estate markets, and generational equity.

The IRS has issued its most sweeping tax-law updates in years — even as it furloughs nearly half its workforce amid a federal shutdown.

In a home equity investment (HEI) or shared equity agreement, the homeowner—not the investor—is responsible for paying property taxes, insurance, and maintenance. These agreements provide cash without monthly payments, but the homeowner must maintain the home and stay current on tax obligations. Here’s what you need to know.