Last year was tough on restaurants. But UBS analysts say new tax breaks and a lower bar to clear could make 2026 more forgiving, particularly for the sit-down chains and fast-casual players that draw wealthier customers. ...

Group 1 - The article emphasizes the importance of maximizing contributions to tax-advantaged accounts such as HSAs, IRAs, and 401(k) plans to benefit from tax breaks [1][3] - In 2026, the maximum contribution limits for HSAs will increase, with $4,400 for self-only coverage and $8,750 for family coverage [7][11] - Individuals aged 55 and older can contribute an additional $1,000 as a catch-up contribution to their HSA [4] Group 2 - It is advised to avoid treating HSAs as regular spending accounts, as the funds can grow tax-free if left untouched [5][8] - Eligibility for HSAs can change annually based on health plan rules, and individuals should verify their eligibility before contributing [9][10] - Funding an HSA when not eligible can lead to tax penalties, highlighting the need for strategic management of HSA accounts [10]

Key Points The more tax breaks you can take in the course of building retirement savings, the better. Though an HSA isn't strictly a retirement account, it can function as one. It pays to see if you're eligible to participate in an HSA in 2026, especially if you have new insurance. The $23,760 Social Security bonus most retirees completely overlook › IRAs and 401(k) plans are popular for a reason. These accounts offer tax breaks in the course of building retirement savings. And since you'll need ...

Smart year-end moves—like upping retirement contributions, using new OBBA tax breaks, and spending your FSA money—can strengthen your financial position heading into 2026. https://t.co/EhQagZQi5b ...

Gladskikh Tatiana / Shutterstock.com Quick Read IRA contribution limits are rising to $7,500 for savers under 50 and $8,600 for those 50 and over. 401(k) limits are increasing to $24,500 for savers under 50 and $32,500 for those 50 and over. There are new rules for higher earners who want to make catch-up contributions to their 401(k)s. If you’re thinking about retiring or know someone who is, there are three quick questions causing many Americans to realize they can retire earlier than expected. ...

Core Insights - The IRS has announced the contribution limits for 401(k) and other tax-advantaged retirement accounts for the upcoming year, allowing workers to save more for retirement [3][4]. - The new contribution limit for 401(k) accounts is set at $24,500, an increase from $23,500 in the previous year, while traditional IRA contributions can now reach $7,500, up from $7,000 [3][4]. - The announcement is particularly significant in light of new tax breaks introduced by recent legislation, which may incentivize higher contributions to 401(k) plans to manage taxable income [2][5][6]. Contribution Limits - Workers can contribute up to $24,500 in 401(k) plans and similar accounts, marking a $1,000 increase from the previous year [3]. - Traditional IRA contribution limits have also increased to $7,500, providing additional savings opportunities for individual savers [3]. Tax Planning Implications - The new contribution limits serve as a tax-planning tool, especially for those looking to stay below income thresholds established by new tax laws [5][7]. - Financial advisers suggest that maximizing 401(k) contributions can help individuals reduce their taxable income, thereby benefiting from the new tax breaks [6][7]. Participation Rates - According to Vanguard research, only about 14% of individuals contributed the maximum allowable amount to their 401(k) plans in 2024, indicating a potential area for growth in retirement savings [9]. Benefits for Older Workers - The IRS update includes provisions that allow older workers (ages 50 to 59) to save more in their retirement accounts, which is a positive development for this demographic [10][11].

Core Insights - The article emphasizes the importance of saving for retirement without compromising current quality of life, suggesting that there is no such thing as having too much money saved for retirement [1][2] Retirement Savings Accounts - While IRAs and 401(k) plans are commonly highlighted for retirement savings, Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) are also valuable and often overlooked options that can provide additional benefits [3][5] - HSAs offer tax advantages similar to traditional and Roth retirement accounts, including pre-tax contributions, tax-free withdrawals for qualifying healthcare expenses, and tax-free investment gains [6][4] Flexibility of HSAs - HSA funds do not have time restrictions, allowing for withdrawals for medical expenses at any time without early withdrawal penalties, except for non-medical withdrawals which incur a 20% penalty [4][7] - The ability to invest HSA balances and let them grow tax-free makes HSAs a viable option for retirement savings, as funds can be used for healthcare costs that may increase in retirement [8][7]

Core Insights - The U.S. economy experienced a boost in spring and summer as consumers rushed to purchase new cars to avoid tariffs and take advantage of expiring tax breaks [1] - Currently, there is a noticeable decline in car shopping activity among consumers [1] Economic Impact - The rush to buy new cars was driven by the anticipation of U.S. tariffs and the expiration of certain tax incentives, indicating a temporary spike in consumer spending [1] - The shift in consumer behavior suggests a potential slowdown in the automotive sector, which could impact overall economic growth [1]

Healthcare & Economic Concerns - Republican legislation is deeply unpopular, especially regarding tax breaks for the wealthy [1] - Healthcare costs, tariffs, and inflation are causing economic pain for voters [2] - Voters are moving away from Republicans due to overreach, constitutional violations, and failure to lower costs [3] - Proposed healthcare cuts amount to over 1 trillion USD, potentially affecting 17 million Americans [4] - These cuts are perceived as "robbing the poor to give to the rich," with tax breaks for the top 1% [5][6] - The cuts are happening now, with 20,000 people in three counties potentially losing their New York State Essential Plan (Medicaid) coverage [11] - Half of births in the United States are paid for by Medicaid [9] - Rural healthcare will be most affected by the cuts [14] Political Strategy & Public Sentiment - Democrats see an opportunity to repeal the 1 trillion USD in tax breaks for the rich and lower healthcare costs [8] - Immigration policies are increasingly unpopular, with concerns about masked federal agents [18] - There is a need to rally people across party lines to push back against perceived constitutional overreach [20]

So, while the Trump administration unveiling a new fee for H-1B visas, it also announced new programs designed to fasttrack residency for foreign nationals with some tax breaks. CBC's wealth editor Robert Frank joins us now with some of the details. Robert, good morning, Andrew.Good to see you. Well, President Trump announcing two new luxury visa programs, a gold card and a platinum card. The gold card will cost $1 million for individuals and $2 million for companies.It will allow foreign nationals to get U ...