Core Insights - A growing number of Americans are considering financial resolutions for the new year, with 64% indicating this intention, up from 56% last year [1] - The top three financial resolutions remain consistent: 44% aim to save more money, 36% want to pay down debt, and 30% plan to spend less [2] Financial Sentiment - 55% of respondents feel overwhelmed by personal finances, with Millennials (68%) and Gen Z (64%) feeling the most pressure [5] - Financial stress is prevalent, with 35% worried about saving for goals after bills, 34% about paying monthly bills, and 30% about healthcare costs in retirement [6] Financial Setbacks - Nearly three-quarters of Americans faced a financial setback last year, with 20% reporting an unexpected non-health emergency [6] - In 2025, 72% experienced some type of financial setback, and 33% feel they have significantly less money due to rising prices [9] Optimism and Improvement - Despite financial challenges, 70% of Americans feel they are in a better or similar financial situation compared to last year [9] - 43% of respondents feel better about their finances than five years ago, an increase from 36% last year [10] Short-term Savings Focus - There is a notable prioritization of short-term savings goals, with 25% wanting to build an emergency fund and 23% aiming to adhere to a spending budget [15] - The trend towards short-term savings is attributed to recent market volatility and the need to dip into savings [14]

Core Insights - The Federal Reserve has cut the federal funds rate three times in 2024 and recently made a second cut in 2025, leading to a decline in deposit interest rates, including money market account (MMA) rates [1] - The national average rate for MMAs is currently 0.59%, while top high-yield accounts offer rates exceeding 4% APY, significantly higher than the national average [2][9] - Online banks and credit unions are highlighted as the best sources for competitive MMA rates due to lower overhead costs and not-for-profit structures, respectively [4][5] Group 1: Money Market Account Rates - The national average MMA rate is 0.59%, but high-yield accounts can offer rates over 4% APY, which is more than six times the national average [2] - Online banks typically provide the best MMA rates due to reduced operational costs, allowing them to offer higher deposit rates [4] - Credit unions also offer competitive rates, often ranging from 3% to 4% APY, but may have membership requirements [5] Group 2: Benefits and Considerations of Money Market Accounts - Money market accounts are suitable for short-term savings goals, offering higher interest rates than regular savings accounts and easier access to funds compared to CDs [5][7] - These accounts are considered low-risk and are FDIC-insured up to $250,000 per depositor, per institution, making them safer than money market funds [6] - Many MMAs require a minimum balance to earn the highest advertised rates, and there may be transaction limits that could affect accessibility [6][7]