Author: Money Mechanics

Key Takeaways According to the most recent data, imports increased, driven primarily by spending on computer equipment needed to build AI infrastructure.Computer imports jumped 65% in July compared to the year prior, while computer accessory imports were up 50%.Meanwhile, imports of other products subject to tariffs have declined this year: airplanes are down 30%, trucks fell 13%, and cars are 11% lower. Tariffs are slowing imports in many industries, but thanks to artificial intelligence, there’s one major category that’s still booming: computer equipment. New trade data showed total U.S. imports rose 6% in July, even as many tariffs took effect.…

Key Takeaways The Federal Reserve’s two-day policy-setting meeting begins Tuesday.Investors widely expect the central bank to cut its influential interest rate. However, members of the policy committee may divided on the decision and the course of monetary policy to come. The Federal Reserve enters a pivotal meeting on Tuesday, where it’s widely expected to cut interest rates for the first time since December. What the Fed signals about whether more cuts are coming will drive markets on Wednesday afternoon, when the Federal Open Market Committee will wrap up its two-day meeting. The FOMC appears divided on the path ahead, all…

Webtoon Stock Jumps 30% on Disney Investment, Collaboration 1 minute ago Shares of Webtoon Entertainment (WBTN) soared 30% in premarket trading as the digital comic platform said that Walt Disney (DIS) would be taking a stake in the firm as they collaborate in creating a new outlet for Disney’s comic franchises. Webtoon said the companies have agreed on a “non-binding term sheet for the development of an all-new digital comics platform that will feature current comic book runs and include decades of past comics from across Disney’s portfolio including Marvel, ‘Star Wars,’ 20th Century Studios and more.” The comics “will…

Key Takeaways Webtoon Entertainment and Walt Disney signed a non-binding agreement to create a new platform for Disney comics.As part of the deal, Disney will take a 2% equity stake in Webtoon.The news sent shares of Webtoon Entertainment skyrocketing in premarket trading. Shares of Webtoon Entertainment (WBTN) soared 30% in premarket trading as the digital comic platform said that Walt Disney (DIS) would be taking a stake in the firm as they collaborate in creating a new outlet for Disney’s comic franchises. Webtoon said the companies have agreed on a “non-binding term sheet for the development of an all-new digital…

In the world of commercial real estate, some asset classes offer the potential for stability and predictable returns, while others carry hidden risks that can quickly erode investor value. Truck stops fall squarely into the latter category.While they may appear attractive due to their necessity in the transportation sector, the reality is that these investments are fraught with volatility, operator instability and long-term disruption risks.In contrast, traditional real estate sectors like industrial properties, net leased properties to essential businesses, grocery-anchored retail and multifamily apartments often offer more reliable return potential and much lower operational risk. From just $107.88 $24.99 for…

For many advisers, annual client reviews can seem like just one more item to check off a lengthy to-do list.But annual client reviews are more than just routine check-ins — they’re a strategic opportunity to deliver value, build trust and uncover new opportunities.For clients, these reviews help ensure their financial plans can remain aligned with life changes and market conditions.For advisers, they provide a chance to strengthen relationships, introduce new strategies and help grow their business.By making annual reviews a cornerstone of your practice, you can help position yourself as a trusted partner in your clients’ financial journeys while also…

If you watched the original The A-Team action-adventure television series in the 1980s or in reruns, one line from that show probably stuck in your memory: “I love it when a plan comes together.”I said the same thing to a happy — and extremely lucky — reader after we thwarted an attempt by the daughter of a former employee to blackmail him with allegations of office hanky-panky with her mother some years earlier.The underlying fact situation is the perfect example of why it is important to hang on to expired passports, among several other documents. This made-for-television drama began with…

Fall is right around the corner. And that means a new iPhone is about to drop.Last week, Apple announced details surrounding its iPhone 17. The base model remains at the same price of $799.99 and comes with many elevated features that make it an attractive buy. You can preorder it now, with the release coming Friday, September 19.Furthermore, if you’re thinking about switching carriers, T-Mobile is offering a promotion that could get you the new iPhone at no cost. We’ll break down what’s new about the iPhone 17, how the T-Mobile deal works and whether it’s a smart value. From…

Investing can feel like a waiting game, with the biggest rewards often years or even decades away. But what if you could get a little instant gratification along the way?Some companies offer fun perks to their investors, such as free chocolate, discounted products or spending money on your next cruise. These small bonuses can make the investing journey a bit more enjoyable.While it’s tempting to chase these freebies, it’s crucial to remember a cardinal rule of investing: never let a perk dictate your purchase. A company should earn its place in your portfolio based on its financial health and growth…

When it comes to estate planning, a will or a trust often receives the most attention. However, the simple act of naming a beneficiary to inherit assets in your 401(k), IRA, or savings account, or the proceeds of a life insurance policy or annuity, is a powerful estate planning tool.“Some folks minimize the importance of a beneficiary designation,” said Rachelle Tubongbanua, a private wealth advisor and managing director at U.S. Bank.But that’s an estate planning mistake. From just $107.88 $24.99 for Kiplinger Personal Finance Be a smarter, better informed investor. CLICK FOR FREE ISSUE Sign up for Kiplinger’s Free Newsletters…