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Looking to learn more about specific financial topics? From investing to taxes, here you’ll find a library of jargon-free articles written by industry experts.
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The truth behind the meaning of money
The real power in money is in the power of choice — which puts you in control of the life you want to live.
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Q4 2025 Performance review & 2026 Outlook: Balancing growth with caution
Despite some volatility, stocks managed to finish 2025 in positive territory. The Morningstar Global Markets index rose 3.29% for the quarter, marking the third straight positive quarter. The rally was broader than most of 2025, as tech stocks actually lagged modestly and smaller companies outperformed. Non-U.S. stocks put in another strong quarter, with non-U.S. developed ... Read more
Retirement plan off track? Here’s your recovery strategy.
Being behind on your retirement savings can create feelings of stress, anxiety, and worry. Even thinking about how to get back on track can feel overwhelming and confusing. But with retirement on the horizon, using the time you do have to your advantage can make a huge difference. Here’s what you can do now, and ... Read more
Will mortgage rates keep falling in 2026? A forecast & analysis
Mortgage rates have finally dipped below 7%, but will they keep falling in 2026? This analysis dives into the three key economic scenarios—from a steady economy to a full recession—that will determine the Federal Reserve's path on future rate cuts. We break down what it would take to see 5% mortgage rates, what could send them back to 7%, and what the new 50-year mortgage proposal could mean for homebuyers.
Flying blind: the Fed cuts rates at the October 2025 meeting
The Federal Reserve cut its target for interest rates by 0.25% at the October meeting. For a long time, Fed Chair Jerome Powell has told us the Fed’s decisions would be “data dependent.” However, with the government having been shut down for almost all of October, there is very little new data for the Fed ... Read more
Q3 2025 Performance Review: Navigating a market torn between AI boom and recession risk
Stocks had another strong quarter in 3Q. The Morningstar Global Markets index rose 7.57% for the quarter, ending just below the all-time high set in September. Gains were powered by enthusiasm for Artificial Intelligence, hope for Fed rate cuts, and strong flows from individual investors. However, there are a number of risks that also became ... Read more
Fed cuts rates to battle recession risk, looking past inflation spike.
The Federal Reserve cut its target interest rate by 0.25% at the September 17 meeting. This has Wall Street wondering what comes next. Is this the start of a series of rate cuts? Or will lingering inflation problems make future cuts difficult? Here are our views on these questions and more. Weakening labor market convinced ... Read more
When will the Fed cut rates? June meeting points to a timeline.
As was widely expected, the Federal Reserve held interest rates steady at its June meeting, navigating a difficult moment with risks to both inflation and economic growth. While a potential tariff-driven price spike is keeping the Fed on hold for now, a closer look at their projections and Fed Chair Jerome Powell's comments reveals a clear bias towards cutting rates later this year.
Stock market 101: A beginner's guide
What is the stock market? What are stocks? How do stocks fit into your overall financial plan? Here are some answers.
What is an emergency fund?
An emergency fund is designed to be a safety net for “surprise” expenses. Learn more about what it is and why it is important.