Working Americans will soon get ‘very large refunds’ of up to $2,000/household, says Bessent. How to make the most of it

Core Insights - The U.S. stock market, particularly the S&P 500, has shown significant growth, with a year-to-date increase of approximately 16% and an overall gain of about 86% over the past five years [1][2] - The upcoming tax refund season in 2026 is projected to be the largest on record, potentially providing American households with refunds ranging from $1,000 to $2,000, totaling between $100 billion and $150 billion [3][4][5] - Investment strategies such as owning an S&P 500 index fund are recommended for individuals looking to benefit from the stock market's long-term growth [6][7] Investment Opportunities - Real estate is highlighted as a cornerstone of wealth-building, with properties providing consistent rental income and serving as a hedge against inflation [10][11] - Crowdfunding platforms like Arrived allow individuals to invest in rental properties with minimal capital, starting as low as $100, making real estate investment more accessible [12][13] - Commercial property investments through platforms like First National Realty Partners (FNRP) enable accredited investors to diversify their portfolios without the responsibilities of being a landlord [14][15] Financial Management Strategies - High-yield savings accounts (HYSAs) and certificates of deposit (CDs) are discussed as options for managing cash, particularly in a fluctuating interest-rate environment [16][18] - Raisin offers access to high-yield and no-penalty CDs, providing options for both fixed returns and flexibility in accessing funds [19][20]