Daily Money - A Healthy Obsession?

No images? Click here
March 25, 2025

I obsess over retirement. Maybe that’s unsurprising for someone with my title who authors a weekly newsletter on the subject. But that alone doesn’t begin to scratch the surface of how invested — literally and figuratively — I am in achieving a financially secure second act.

I exceed my employer’s 401(k) match and adhere to a strict budget. All of the disposable income I generate from side gigs like seasonal bartending is used to pay down my mortgage principal so I don’t carry housing debt into retirement.

My greatest fixation is my Roth IRA. Without fail, every week I dollar-cost average $134.62 into that account, ensuring that I reach my annual maximum contribution of $7,000. I routinely revisit my positions and reallocate when necessary to maximize my returns. And the only shopping I ever enjoy doing is when the market pulls back and stocks go on sale.

It is, unequivocally, an obsession.

But after reading a recent Wall Street Journal article, I was elated to discover that I might not be alone. It turns out that an increasing number of young investors are turning to IRAs to capture their inherent tax-advantaged growth. In 2022, 41% of those contributing to IRAs were under the age of 40 — up from 28% in 2016.

Perhaps that increase can be attributed to younger generations repeatedly being told that Social Security is at risk. Or maybe it’s because those at the upper end of that age group have already endured five recessions and want more control over their futures.

Whatever the cause, it’s promising to see more young people taking action now to help themselves decades down the road. I may obsess, but evidently, I do not obsess alone.

— Jordan Chussler, investing and banking editor

P.S. If you got this newsletter from a friend, sign up here for email delivery to make sure you don't miss the next issue.

Rangely García for Money

Last month, the Social Security Administration announced a staffing target of 50,000, or a 12% decrease from its current employee count, as it continues “identifying efficiencies and reducing costs.” A union rep for federal government employees predicts that the staff cuts will have severe consequences, mentioning the possibility of delayed processing for new Social Security applicants.

Do you own a home and are looking to stay put... but are considering a renovation? A HELOC, or home equity line of credit, could be a way to get some cash to do that upgrade you’ve been clamoring for, like a sweet bathroom or those new kitchen cabinets you’ve been eyeing. If you have good credit, check out Money’s list of the best HELOC companies by clicking below and see what might be the right fit for you.

See Money’s list of the best home equity and cash-out refinance lenders!

Money.com does not feature all companies or products available. The products featured may not be right for everyone.

ADVERTISEMENT

• 🫠 Retirement Expert Explains How to Avoid Common Planning Mistakes
• 🇺🇲 Americans Are Planning to Retire Differently
• 🌽 Are Rural Americans Left Behind in the Employer-Based Retirement Savings System?

Investing

Bull markets are characterized by investor optimism and widespread gains. But when the tide turns, finding success in a bear market can be a daunting task.

Money; Getty Images

Insurance

Half of nearly 5,200 consumers surveyed reported their insurer raising their premium over the last year — even if they didn’t file a claim.

Getty Images

Food Costs

Prices for snacks are up about 22% since February 2020, forcing some consumers to cut back or choose affordable alternatives.

Money, Getty Images

This newsletter is free because Money earns a commission when you click or make purchases from the links in this email and on our site. We also receive compensation for some of the products and services featured in this message. Offers may be subject to change without notice. Learn more about how we make money.

Privacy Policy • Advertise With Us • We're Hiring!

To stop receiving these emails, unsubscribe or manage your email preferences.

Copyright ©2025 Money Group, LLC. All rights reserved.

Metro Office Park Calle 1, Building 7 Suite 204, Guaynabo, Puerto Rico 00968, USA