The September consumer price index, which is a key gauge of inflation, and 2026 cost of living adjustment for social security benefits, will be released this morning at 8:30. That's an hour from now. These data points can have a pretty significant impact on the financial security of retirees and aspiring retirees, but it may not be factored into their planning.Sharon Eper joins us right now with exclusive reporting on a new global survey. And Sharon, good morning. >> Good morning, Becky.You know, believing ...

Core Insights - The perception of wealth among Americans has shifted, with only 23% believing that an annual income of $100,000 qualifies as wealthy [1] - There is a growing emphasis on personal financial goals such as debt elimination and financial security rather than just high income [2] Group 1: Definition of Wealth - The primary definition of wealth for many Americans is the ability to live comfortably without financial concerns, which is a significant source of stress for over 70% of the population [4][5] - Wealth is increasingly associated with not worrying about covering essential expenses and having some discretionary income for comfort [5] Group 2: Financial Security - Feeling financially secure is a key component of wealth, with around half of U.S. adults indicating that an income of $100,000 would suffice for this sense of security [6] - However, a notable portion of Americans believe that higher incomes are necessary for financial security, with 25% stating they would need at least $150,000 and 16% requiring $200,000 [7]

Forgotten 401(k)s are a silent threat to your financial security, but they don’t have to be. By understanding the costs of inaction—high fees, stagnant returns, and lost growth—you can take charge of your retirement savings. https://t.co/yUjCLeWkjs https://t.co/iERsQHN5De ...

More middle-class Americans than ever are quietly joining the ranks of millionaires — at least on paper. Thanks to decades of home appreciation, retirement savings and stock market growth, hitting a $1 million net worth is increasingly common. Explore More: 4 Moves To Make if You Can’t Pay All Your Bills this Month Check Out: 10 Cars That Outlast the Average Vehicle However, many of these households don’t feel rich, and in today’s economy, they may not be. Rising costs, longer lifespans, and unexpected ex ...

Risk Management - Concentration of company stock in retirement plans poses risks to long-term financial security [1] - Reducing concentration risk is crucial for protecting retirement savings [1] Strategies - Tax-efficient strategies can be employed to manage company stock in retirement plans [1]

Retirement Savings Risks - Forgotten 401(k)s pose a silent threat to financial security [1] - Inaction leads to high fees, stagnant returns, and lost growth [1] Actionable Advice - Individuals should take charge of their retirement savings [1]

Core Insights - The article emphasizes the importance of living below one's means as a strategy for financial stability and wealth-building, highlighting the practices of successful individuals like Suze Orman and Warren Buffett [3][4][8]. Group 1: Financial Strategies - Acorns app allows users to invest spare change from purchases, promoting a habit of saving and investing even while spending [1]. - Suze Orman advises individuals to prioritize needs over wants, suggesting that this approach can lead to better financial outcomes [4][8]. - The article mentions that nearly 50% of Americans are making significant mistakes regarding Social Security, indicating a widespread need for financial education [4]. Group 2: Consumer Debt and Spending - Household debt in the U.S. reached a record $18.39 trillion in Q2 2025, with rising credit card and auto loans contributing to financial strain [8]. - A significant portion of homeowners, approximately 22.8%, are considered cost-burdened, spending over 30% of their income on housing costs [10]. - Over 18 million American homeowners are classified as "house poor," indicating a struggle to balance housing expenses with income [9].

Core Perspective - The article discusses the dilemma faced by Derek regarding early retirement and the financial implications of supporting his son's college education, particularly in the context of a significant medical program cost of nearly $250,000, which could delay his retirement by about five years [2][3]. Financial Implications - Derek currently earns approximately $150,000 annually and spends about $65,000 on mortgage, healthcare, and everyday expenses, indicating a carefully budgeted retirement savings plan [2]. - The average federal student loan debt is reported to be $39,075 per person, which can negatively impact lifetime earnings [4]. - An analysis by the Kresge Foundation indicates that the average student debt burden can lead to a lifetime wealth loss of nearly $208,000 for dual-earner households with bachelor's degrees, primarily due to lower retirement savings and reduced home equity [5]. Considerations for Funding Education - The family's financial situation must be assessed to determine if they can cover tuition without depleting retirement accounts, as withdrawing from savings could incur penalties and missed growth opportunities [7]. - Health considerations are crucial; if Derek or his wife face health challenges, the need for early retirement may arise, further impacting retirement portfolio growth [7]. - Job security is a factor; losing employment could hinder Derek's ability to fund both his son's education and his own financial needs [7]. - The student's academic commitment and performance should be evaluated to ensure readiness for a demanding medical program [7]. - The earning potential of medical doctors is generally higher, which may make student loan repayment more feasible; Derek might consider loaning money to his son instead of providing it outright [7].

Retirement Planning & Investment - 24% of retirement plans are considering adding alternative assets in the next year to enhance diversification and offset downside risk and inflation [1][2] - Adding alternative assets has the potential to enhance retirement income by about four years or more [2] - The average 55-year-old American has less than $50,000 saved, which is woefully short of recommended savings [2][3][4] - It's crucial for individuals to seek professional financial advice to navigate their personal retirement journey, considering their risk tolerance and retirement vision [4][8][9][10] - Over 11,000 Americans are turning 65 every day, creating a retirement challenge as people are living longer but not necessarily saving more [5][6] Credential Financial's Role - Credential Financial sees the retirement challenge as a significant opportunity to provide solutions, advice, and tools to meet customers where they are [6][7] - Credential Financial has 3,000 financial advisors available to help people navigate their financial journey [4] - Credential Financial emphasizes that it's never too late to seek financial advice, regardless of how prepared individuals feel [8][9][10] Life Insurance - There is a $12 trillion life insurance gap in the country, indicating a need for greater awareness of its importance in financial portfolios [12] - Life insurance is viewed as the foundation of a financial house, providing protection in the event of an early death and building generational wealth [11][12] - Credential Financial is the largest life insurer in the country and leans into life insurance awareness and education [10][11][12]

Core Insights - Retirement planning for older adults often focuses on income stability rather than growth, addressing concerns about financial security and the fear of outliving savings [3][4] Group 1: Financial Situation of Older Adults - Many older adults, like Jake, may appear financially secure with multiple income streams but still feel uneasy about their future [2] - Monthly expenses for older adults can be significant, with Jake facing $7,000 in expenses, including mortgages and maintenance [2] Group 2: Strategies for Financial Security - Evaluating rental properties is crucial; determining cash flow after expenses can inform whether to keep or sell properties [4] - Reassessing annuities can lead to better financial products; transferring to lower-fee or higher-earning options may be beneficial, especially after the surrender period [5] - Leveraging real estate income by paying off mortgages can reduce monthly costs, allowing for a more stable income stream [6]