The proposed ‘chained’ inflation index would cut Social Security increases even though a realistic index of elder inflation would push benefits higher. Can we just tell the truth?
The Economy
The New Retirement: Forget Being Rich, All We Want Is Peace of Mind
Four years after the recession ended we are still getting signals that our values have changed–at least partly of necessity.
BlackRock’s Fink: Put it All in Stocks
Among other controversial ideas, BlackRock CEO Laurence Fink said long-term bonds had become so risky that young people should be 100% in stocks.
Safe Bet? Central Banks Suddenly Start Buying Stocks
Even central banks are buying stocks, chasing better returns in this low-rate environment. Should you join them?
How to Tame the Rising Cost of Prom Season
Americans generally remain frugal in the aftermath of the Great Recession. But prom night appears invulnerable to austerity. Here’s what you can do about it.
The Real Significance of the Bitcoin Boom (and Bust)
Online currencies like the Bitcoin are one day likely to alter government policy, just as the bond market did in the 1990s
Financial Independence? Today’s Young People Don’t Expect It Anytime Soon
In a mere two years, the proportion of teenagers who expect to be financially dependent on their parents until their mid-20s has doubled. That gives us all another reason to feel sympathy for parents who have teenagers right now.
Scared to Prepared: How the Great Recession Changed Our Spending Habits
The sting of the financial crisis can still be felt five years on. But individuals have moved beyond finger-pointing
Gas Prices Almost Never Decline in March—But They Did Last Month
Traditionally, gas prices have risen in the spring and peaked during the high-demand summer months. Last year, though, prices spiked starting in February and reached their highs in early May, before declining slightly in summer. …
Why Derivatives May Be the Biggest Risk for the Global Economy
Since the recession, the value of derivatives outstanding has grown, and they remain very risky with the potential for large, unpredictable losses.
If There’s No Inflation, Why Are Prices Up So Much?
Many of the costs faced by typical American households are rising faster than the official inflation statistics indicate.
What Happens When the Fed Really Does Run Out of Ammunition?
The Fed has no good choices. If easy money ends, the economy will slow even more. But continuing the policy risks inflation
