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IN THIS ISSUE: Retiring early, getting a raise, and cheaper holiday flights |
THE HEADLINES
Going out on topWhat’s happening: People may be retiring earlier lately. Labor force participation for workers over 55 dropped from nearly 39% in January 2023 to about 37% in August 2026, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.1 (Pre-pandemic, that figure was in the 40s.)
Here’s why: It could be the booming stock market. With annual S&P 500 returns, including reinvested dividends, near or above 20% since 2023,2 many in the over-55 cohort may be feeling flush enough to clock out for good.
What it means for you: Before you break out the retirement party hats, keep in mind that rising prices can eat into your nest egg and past stock performance doesn’t guarantee future results. In fact, stocks could get pushed down by higher bond yields, oil prices, and geopolitical uncertainty. If you’re eyeing the exit, learn how much you may need to retire and the
4 questions to ask yourself before retiring. |
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Wage gaugeWhat’s happening: Employers plan to increase salary budgets by a median of 3.5% in 2027, the same as 2026,3 according to The Conference Board, which surveyed companies. Only 8.4% of employees are expected to get promotions in 2027—that’s less than the last 2 years, according to Marsh’s Mercer QuickPulse® Survey.4
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Here’s why:
Employers are being choosier about pay amid economic uncertainty, says The Conference Board. In fact, September’s jobs report showed softening in the labor market. Here’s what that could mean for investors.
What it means for you: If you get a raise, it may not feel like one. That’s because inflation on everyday items like groceries and gas is outpacing that 3.5% median pay bump. Whether or not your employer smiles upon you this year, you can give yourself a raise with these 9 ideas. |
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Scram, scamWhat’s happening: The Federal Trade Commission is developing a new rule that would hold social media platforms, online marketplaces, and search engines accountable when their services enable or amplify impersonation scams.
Here’s why: Since 2020, money lost to social media scams has increased eightfold, with more total losses than any other scam contact method.5 More than 40% of people who lost money on social media said it started with an ad, according to the FTC.6 Many were sent to unheard-of or impersonator websites offering deep discounts. They placed orders, only to receive nothing at all or counterfeit or not-as-advertised products.
What it means for you: Take these steps to avoid social media scams.
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Tighten your privacy settings to limit the info scammers can see about you.
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Before you buy something from an ad, search for complaints or scam reports about the company.
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Be exceptionally skeptical of potential romance scams, when someone tries to win your affections and then separate you from your money.
Scams are constantly evolving. Find out if you’d know how to protect yourself against these 3 common scams. |
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HOW TO
Steal the secrets of moderate millionairesThese people seem surprisingly ordinary, but their assets may not be—and you could join them. |
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WORTH A TRY?
Hack holiday airfareDon’t let holiday plans derail your investing goals. You could save money on your plane tickets. According to NerdWallet, travelers often find some of the lowest fares by booking Thanksgiving flights in early- to mid-October and Christmas flights between mid-October and mid-November. Because booking window “sweet spots” can vary from year to year, travelers may benefit from buying tickets as soon as their plans are firm. Whenever you’re traveling, learn
10 ways to save on flights. Then, get 19 freebies and cheapies to help save even more at the holidays. |
