An emergency fund provides a critical safety net against unexpected expenses like job loss, medical bills, or home repairs, with experts generally recommending three to six months of essential living costs. The exact amount depends on factors such as job stability, income variability, dependents, and health needs, and while many Americans remain underprepared, consistent saving strategies and smart planning can help build long-term financial security.
Stock volatility measures how much a stock’s price fluctuates over time, with higher volatility signaling greater uncertainty and risk. Wall Street gauges volatility through tools like standard deviation (historical price swings), beta (comparison to market movement), and implied volatility from options, all of which help investors assess risk and build portfolios aligned with their goals.
Becoming a parent is joyful but also brings major financial responsibilities, from medical bills and childcare to long-term savings for education and retirement. With careful budgeting, smart use of benefits, and planning for both expected and unexpected costs, new parents can manage expenses confidently while securing their family’s future.
With healthcare premiums and deductibles climbing sharply, families are paying more out-of-pocket than ever, making tax-advantaged tools like Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) increasingly valuable.
Receiving an inheritance is rarely just about the money. It’s also about loss, responsibility, identity, and choice.
Be sure to impart these key financial lessons before your co-ed starts fall semester to set them up to thrive in their new environment.