Core Viewpoint - BlackRock Science and Technology Term Trust (BSTZ) is rated as a Buy for income-focused investors seeking diversification and growth in their portfolios, currently trading at an -11.4% discount [1]. Group 1: Investment Analysis - BSTZ is classified as a closed-end fund (CEF) [1]. - The fund is suitable for investors looking for income and diversification [1]. Group 2: Management Background - David A. Johnson, the founder and principal of Endurance Capital Management, has over 30 years of investment experience [1]. - He holds a Master of Science in Finance, a Certificate in Financial Planning, and an MBA [1].

Core Insights - The decision to withdraw from retirement accounts to pay off a mortgage can lead to significant financial consequences, including lost compounding growth and increased tax liabilities [1][2][22] - The penalties and taxes associated with early withdrawals can substantially reduce the amount available for mortgage payoff, making it a costly decision [3][4][22] - Maintaining a mortgage while allowing retirement accounts to grow can often be a more financially sound strategy, especially if the mortgage rate is lower than expected investment returns [11][12][14][22] Financial Implications - A $300,000 withdrawal could result in a loss of potential growth, compounding over 15 years at a 7% growth rate to approximately $850,000 [1] - Withdrawals can trigger Medicare premium surcharges, increasing costs by $80–$140+ per month [1] - Large withdrawals can push individuals into higher tax brackets, leading to 85% of Social Security benefits becoming taxable, resulting in effective marginal tax rates exceeding 20% [2] Withdrawal Penalties - Individuals under 59½ face a 10% early withdrawal penalty on IRA and 401(k) accounts, which can significantly diminish the amount available for mortgage payments [4][8] - The "Rule of 55" allows penalty-free withdrawals from 401(k) plans if the individual separates from their employer at age 55 or later, but this option is limited [9][10] Strategic Considerations - The math often favors keeping a mortgage, particularly if the mortgage rate is low compared to potential investment returns [11][12] - A strategy of patience, allowing retirement accounts to grow while managing mortgage payments from other income sources, can lead to better financial outcomes [12][24] - The psychological aspect of debt management is significant, as many individuals feel more secure owning their home outright, which can influence decision-making [16] Professional Guidance - Personalized financial modeling is crucial for making informed decisions regarding retirement withdrawals and mortgage management [18][20] - Financial advisors can help individuals navigate the complexities of tax implications, withdrawal strategies, and overall financial planning [21]

#数据 今年1至11月，中国各地区投资同比增速均转负。外汇交易员 (@myfxtrader):统计局： 1—11月份，全国固定资产投资（不含农户）444035亿元，同比下降2.6%。 其中，采矿业投资增长4.0%，制造业投资增长1.9%，电力、热力、燃气及水生产和供应业投资增长10.7%。 https://t.co/8YlW1lvPJF ...

Investment Risks - Leaving money in a savings account can lead to a loss of value and missed growth opportunities [1] - There's a risk of funds being turned over to the state [1]

Core Insights - Robinhood's stock has surged 250% over the past year, with a current trading price of $115 per share, up from around $8 two years ago, indicating significant growth potential for investors [1][2] - The company has transformed its business model, overcoming previous challenges related to regulatory scrutiny and customer dissatisfaction, leading to a substantial increase in total platform assets from $102 billion to $343 billion since the start of 2024 [3][4] Business Transformation - Robinhood has effectively utilized elevated interest rates to attract capital, encouraging customers to deposit funds onto its platform [4] - The introduction of the Gold membership account has provided a steady income stream, with subscribers engaging more frequently and holding more assets compared to non-subscribers [5] Financial Performance - Recent quarterly results showed revenue of $1.27 billion and earnings per share of $0.61, both slightly exceeding consensus estimates, driven by strong transaction revenue growth and increased net interest income [6] - Transaction-based revenue surged 129% to $730 million, with notable growth in cryptocurrency (up 300%), options (50%), and equities (132%), while average revenue per user rose 82% to $191 [7] Future Growth Opportunities - Robinhood is expanding its offerings, including a prediction markets product that has already surpassed $100 million in annualized revenue, with potential to reach a $300 million run rate [9][10] - The company is also looking to broaden its market by providing retail investors access to private companies through the Robinhood Ventures Fund I and plans to facilitate investments in private AI companies [11] Market Position - Robinhood's current market capitalization stands at $96 billion, with a price-to-earnings ratio of 47 times projected earnings per share, reflecting optimistic growth projections from investors [12][15]

0 to $100k = Hard$100k to $1M = Easyfew understand this. ...

Your money grows faster when you leave it alone. ...

Core Viewpoint - McDonald's is positioned as a stronger investment compared to its fast-food peers, as indicated by analysts at Citi, who have raised the price target for the company to $381 per share from a previous level [1] Group 1 - Analysts at Citi believe that McDonald's has a competitive edge over other fast-food companies [1] - The increase in price target reflects confidence in McDonald's growth potential and market position [1]

Your money grows faster when you leave it alone. ...

Over time, salary plays a surprisingly small role in wealth. Here’s why investment growth—and not income—is the engine behind 82% of your net worth. https://t.co/wMoTEjk0N3 ...