We're heading into the last (official) weekend of Summer. And here is SMI's Money Roundup for this week.
Charted: U.S. interest rates over time (1954-2025) (Visual Capitalist). A historical perspective on this week's rate cut.
The 10 biggest ETFs in the U.S. (ETF.com). The top 10 account for approximately 30% of the U.S. ETF market.
Stocks, housing & Social Security: What matters most? (Ben Carlson, A Wealth of Common Sense). "It all depends on where you reside on the wealth distribution."
Why delaying Social Security benefits isn't always the best decision (Derek Tharp, Kitces). This well-written piece offers much to consider re: choosing a claiming strategy. However (as a couple of commenters note), it overlooks a crucial reason many husbands delay — namely, so that a surviving spouse receives the highest possible benefit for the rest of her life.
The draft 1040 for tax year 2025 (IRS). This new draft incorporates changes from the One Big Beautiful Bill. Also, see the draft Schedule 1-A, which includes a section related to the new expanded deduction for seniors.
What charitable contributions are deductible? (Jim Blankenship, Financial Ducks in a Row). Eight things you need to know about giving and taxes.
Why cash is still king for short-term goals (Morningstar) A handy table in this piece outlines the pros and cons of various options, ranging from "under the mattress" to T-Bills.
Perceived importance of college hits new low (Gallup). "The percentage of Americans saying college is 'very important' has fallen to 35%."
Congress close to missing 'basic' budget deadline for 29th year, watchdog group says (Just the News). "The budget process is completely broken."
4 signs money is an idol (Vivian Briker, I Believe). It's easy for money — and the things money can buy — to govern our hearts.
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