Core Insights - The bank maintained its position as a top 10 SBA 7(a) lender with nearly $580 million in funded originations in 2025 despite industry challenges [1] - The bank's initiatives in banking-as-a-service (BaaS) generated over $1.3 billion in new deposits during 2025, more than tripling the previous year [2] - A strategic sale of approximately $850 million in single-tenant lease financing loans to Blackstone strengthened the bank's capital and improved its rate-risk profile [3] - The company reported strong fourth-quarter results with a 21% increase in quarterly revenue and a 30% year-over-year growth in net interest income for 2025 [4] Financial Performance - Fourth-quarter net income was reported at $5.3 million, or $0.60 per diluted share, with adjusted net income of $5.6 million and adjusted EPS of $0.64 [13] - Adjusted total revenue for the fourth quarter was $42.1 million, reflecting a 21% increase from the same period in 2024 [14] - Non-interest income was $11.8 million, showing growth from the prior year, driven by fintech partnership fee revenue [15] Credit Metrics and Provisions - Credit issues are concentrated in SBA and franchise finance, leading to a higher provision outlook for 2026 of $50 million to $53 million [5][9] - Non-performing loans (NPLs) rose to $58.5 million, with an NPL-to-total loans ratio of 1.56% [16] - The allowance for credit losses (ACL) was 1.49% of total loans, with a small business lending ACL to unguaranteed balances at 7.34% [17] 2026 Outlook - The bank is guiding for net interest income of $30.3 million for 2026, representing a year-over-year increase of about 29% [19] - Loan growth is projected at 15% to 17%, with a net interest margin expected to reach 2.75% to 2.80% by the fourth quarter of 2026 [20] - Management expects gradual improvement in credit quality in the second half of 2026 as problem loans are resolved [9][12]

Core Insights - The Federal Reserve has cut the federal funds rate three times in 2025, leading to a decline in deposit account rates, making it crucial for savers to seek high-yield savings accounts to maximize interest earnings [1][5] Group 1: Savings Account Rates - High-yield savings accounts can offer interest rates as high as 4% APY, significantly above the national average [2][3] - The national average savings account rate is currently just 0.39%, while 1-year CDs average 1.63% [5] - The highest savings account rates available as of January 19, 2026, are offered by SoFi, Valley Bank Direct, and Barclays at 4% APY [3][4] Group 2: Online Banks vs Traditional Banks - Most top savings rates are provided by online banks, which have lower overhead costs and can offer higher rates and lower fees compared to traditional banks [4] - Despite recent rate cuts by the Federal Reserve, traditional savings accounts and CDs are still offering some of the highest interest rates seen in over a decade [4] Group 3: Choosing a Savings Account - When selecting a savings account, factors beyond interest rates should be considered, such as minimum balance requirements, customer service, ATM access, and digital banking tools [6][7] - It is essential to ensure that the savings account is insured by the FDIC or NCUA for protection against institutional failure [7]

Core Insights - Current cash management options are providing competitive yields, with rates ranging from low-3% to around 5%, allowing savers to earn meaningful returns without market risk [3][9] - A comprehensive chart has been created to compare the best-paying options across various cash categories, including high-yield savings accounts, CDs, brokerage cash options, and U.S. Treasuries [4][12] - The article emphasizes the importance of selecting the right account to maximize earnings on liquid savings, highlighting potential earnings for different deposit amounts [7][9] Savings Accounts and CDs - High-yield savings accounts and CDs are among the top options for earning competitive yields, with the best CDs allowing for locking in high rates for a specified period [4][10] - The article provides a breakdown of potential earnings for different balances over six months, illustrating how much interest can be earned at various annual percentage yields (APYs) [8][9] Brokerage and Treasury Options - Brokerage cash options and U.S. Treasuries are also highlighted as viable alternatives for balancing return, flexibility, and stability [4][11] - Treasury securities, including T-bills, notes, and bonds, offer interest through maturity and can be purchased directly or traded on the secondary market [14][15] Current Rates Overview - The article includes a summary of the top nationally available APYs from banks and credit unions, as well as rates from brokerage and robo-advisor products [13][15] - It notes that the yield on money market funds fluctuates daily, while cash management account rates can be adjusted at any time [14]

Core Insights - The Federal Reserve's rate cuts have reduced the interest rate for a $40,000 10-year HELOC from 8.12% in March to 7.82% in November, resulting in a slight decrease in monthly payments from $487.85 to $481.51, indicating a trend in response to rate cuts [1] - Lower interest rates create a dilemma for individuals compared to businesses, as they can lead to lower borrowing costs for individuals but also risk overleveraging, while businesses benefit from reduced capital costs for financing projects [2] Investment Strategies - Disciplined investment strategies are essential in a declining interest rate environment, focusing on smart investment approaches [3] - It is advisable to act before rates drop further to secure the best returns, utilizing platforms that offer real-time yield optimization and transparent fee structures [4] - Investors should consider locking in higher yielding investments now, as lower rates may lead to reduced fixed-rate returns in the future [5] Market Opportunities - Investing in quality companies can be rewarding during periods of falling interest rates, as growth stocks may perform well when rates are declining and growth is below average [6]

Core Insights - Inflation is expected to persist, with economists suggesting that pressure may increase by 2026, necessitating investor composure as inflation rates hover around 3% and the Federal Reserve implements interest rate reductions [1][2]. Financial Strategies - An urgent assessment of cash flow and debt management is essential, as inflation will reduce actual investment returns [3]. - Individuals should consider placing funds into high-yield accounts that offer returns exceeding inflation rates before transitioning to short-term Treasury bills or certificates of deposit (CDs) for interest rate protection [4]. - The current low interest rates present an opportunity for businesses to establish financial stability rather than accumulating excessive debt [5][6]. - Investors are advised to review their portfolios, as inflation growth will diminish the purchasing power of idle funds, and diversifying into equities, inflation-protected securities, and real-asset funds can help mitigate this risk [6]. Timing and Strategy - Financial decisions are directly influenced by inflation and interest rate changes, which occur independently, making it crucial to start financial planning early to maintain future flexibility [7]. - A robust financial strategy must extend beyond short-term forecasts, focusing on long-term resilience to navigate various market conditions [8].

Core Insights - The article discusses the shift of households towards higher-yield investment options due to stagnant incomes and rising costs, leading to a decline in consumer spending [2][4][5] Group 1: Savings Accounts and Interest Rates - SoFi offers a competitive 3.60% APY on accounts, with new clients receiving a 0.70% boost for the first six months, totaling 4.30%, significantly higher than the national average [1] - Traditional savings accounts are becoming less appealing as inflation remains above the target rate, prompting consumers to seek better returns [2][3] Group 2: Investment Alternatives - Higher-income households are reallocating cash from regular bank accounts to higher-yield options like money market funds, brokerage accounts, and certificates of deposit (CDs) [3][4] - Certificates of deposit (CDs) are highlighted as valuable for locking in guaranteed rates, especially as interest rates decline [7] Group 3: Consumer Behavior and Economic Indicators - Consumer confidence has dropped to its lowest since April, reflecting economic anxiety and contributing to reduced spending [5] - A report indicates that while consumer spending saw a slight increase, it remains sluggish compared to previous months, indicating a cautious approach among consumers [4] Group 4: Financial Products and Services - Raisin provides access to high-yield and no-penalty CDs from top U.S. banks, catering to those seeking flexibility and higher returns [8][9] - Money market accounts (MMAs) and money market funds (MMFs) are presented as alternatives, with MMFs investing in low-risk securities but lacking FDIC insurance [10][11] Group 5: Investment Strategies - The article emphasizes the importance of aligning investment choices with financial goals, risk tolerance, and liquidity needs, suggesting various products for different purposes [20][21][22]

Core Insights - The article emphasizes the importance of asset location in addition to asset allocation when investing retirement savings, particularly in a 401(k) plan [1][2] - It discusses various options for managing $750,000 in a 401(k) for a 67-year-old retiree, including the potential for partial withdrawals, rollovers to IRAs, or outright withdrawals [2][5] - The article highlights the need for a comprehensive understanding of personal financial situations and retirement goals before selecting an investment strategy [2][12] Investment Options - Leaving assets in a 401(k) may provide lower-cost investment options, such as target date funds and institutional pricing on mutual funds, which can be beneficial for retirees [4] - Moving assets out of a 401(k) can allow for consolidation with other retirement savings and access to a broader range of investment options [5] Risk Management - The article identifies longevity risk, the risk of outliving one's money, and investment risk, the risk of losing investment value, as key concerns for retirees [6][7] - It suggests allocating a portion of the portfolio to equities to combat longevity risk while also including fixed-income investments for stability [8][9] Investment Vehicles - Pooled investment vehicles like mutual funds and exchange-traded funds (ETFs) are recommended for diversifying investments and managing risk [10][11] - Index funds are highlighted as a low-cost option for gaining exposure to large segments of financial markets, while active funds may offer the potential for higher returns at a higher cost [11] Personalization of Strategy - The article concludes that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to investing for capital preservation and cost minimization, and the optimal strategy will depend on individual circumstances and goals [12]

Core Insights - Jim Cramer emphasizes the unpredictability of the stock market, noting that while it can be surprising, long-term trends generally show an upward trajectory [4] - Cramer advises against investing money needed within the next five years in the stock market due to its volatility, suggesting safer alternatives for short-term financial needs [5][6][7] Group 1: Market Behavior - The stock market is inherently unpredictable, influenced by various fluctuating metrics, making short-term forecasts challenging [4] - Long-term investors can benefit from the market's upward trend by remaining invested, despite short-term volatility [4] Group 2: Investment Strategy - Cramer recommends withdrawing funds needed within five years from the stock market to avoid exposure to short-term fluctuations [5][6] - For short-term financial needs, safer and more liquid assets such as high-yield savings accounts, CDs, or short-term bonds are advisable [7]

Core Insights - The article emphasizes the importance of smart investing for wealth preservation, particularly in light of the U.S. dollar's significant depreciation since 1971, losing over 87% of its value [1][2] Investment Trends - A 2024 Bank of America study indicates that 93% of wealthy young Americans plan to increase their allocation to alternative investments, reducing their traditional stock holdings to only 25% of their portfolios [3] - High Net Worth Individuals (HNWIs), defined as those with over $1 million in liquid assets, typically maintain an average of just 15% of their wealth in cash and cash-like instruments, allowing them to navigate market volatility effectively [6] Investment Strategies - The article highlights Warren Buffett's investment strategy, noting that his cash reserves, approximately $190 billion, are primarily held in short-term Treasury Bills and cash-like instruments, rather than in traditional cash [4] - It suggests that investors who have remained fully invested since the 2008 Global Financial Crisis have significantly outperformed those who hold larger cash positions, which continue to lose value [5]

Core Insights - Merrick Bank, founded in 1997, is among the top 20 credit card issuers in the U.S., serving nearly 3 million cardholders [1] Product Overview - Merrick Bank offers two types of credit cards: the Merrick Bank® Credit Card, which requires no security deposit and features automatic credit line reviews, and the Classic Secured Card, which requires a security deposit between $200 to $3,000 [2] - The bank provides loans for recreational vehicles and personal loans through partnerships with dealers [3] - Certificates of deposit (CDs) are available with terms ranging from three months to five years, offering rates as high as 4.1% APY, with a minimum deposit requirement of $25,000 [4] Fees and Charges - Merrick Bank has a low fee structure, although certain specific services may incur fees [5] Advantages and Disadvantages - Pros include access to free FICO scores and credit improvement tools, competitive CD rates, and a user-friendly mobile banking experience [9] - Cons include the absence of checking or savings accounts and a high minimum opening deposit for CDs compared to other banks [9] Mobile Banking Experience - The Merrick Bank mobile application is rated 4.7 on the App Store and 4.6 on Google Play, allowing customers to manage their accounts, view FICO scores, and set up notifications [10] Additional Information - Merrick Bank is FDIC-insured, providing federal insurance for deposits up to $250,000 per depositor [10] - The bank operates as an online entity without physical branches [12]