Core Insights - Retirement planning without a 401(k) is feasible, but strategies may differ from those who have access to such plans [1] Group 1: Alternative Retirement Accounts - Individuals without a 401(k) can still invest in retirement accounts like traditional or Roth IRAs, with annual contributions up to $7,000 ($8,000 for those over 50) [3] - Freelancers or small business owners can utilize SEP IRAs or Solo 401(k) plans for higher contribution limits compared to standard IRAs [3][4] Group 2: Income-Generating Assets - Building income-producing assets is recommended for those not relying on retirement accounts, including real estate, dividend-paying stocks, index funds, and online businesses [4][5] - Real estate is highlighted as a particularly lucrative option for generating cash flow and capital gains, providing control and liquidity [5] Group 3: Healthcare Planning - Planning for healthcare is essential as retirement typically lacks employer-provided health benefits; options include ACA health plans and Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) [6] - HSAs offer tax advantages, allowing pre-tax contributions to grow tax-free and enabling tax-free withdrawals for medical expenses [7] Group 4: Financial Independence Approach - The FIRE (Financial Independence, Retire Early) movement is suggested, advocating for saving 50% to 70% of income and investing in low-cost index funds [7]

Core Viewpoint - Centene (CNC) is currently undervalued despite recent struggles, with potential upside linked to possible extensions of ACA insurance subsidies, which could positively impact its business model [1][4]. Company Overview - Centene is based in St. Louis and manages government-sponsored health insurance programs, including Medicaid, Medicare, and ACA plans [2]. - The current market capitalization of Centene is $19 billion, with a stock price of $39.32 [3]. Recent Performance - Centene's stock price has seen significant volatility, dropping from over $56 per share in July to below $26 in early August due to concerns over subsidy extensions and Medicaid cuts [5][6]. - The stock has rebounded nearly 19% over the past month, aided by better-than-expected earnings and revenue reports [7]. Market Influences - The stock's performance is closely tied to Medicare and Medicaid spending, as well as the status of ACA health plans [8]. - Recent reports suggest that President Trump may propose a two-year extension for ACA insurance subsidies, which could garner Republican support and benefit Centene as the largest provider in ACA marketplaces [4].