Author: Money Mechanics

A good multitool can be a reliable companion for decades (as long as you don’t lose it!). Adrian Kingsley-Hughes/ZDNETFollow ZDNET: Add us as a preferred source on Google.ZDNET’s key takeawaysStick with Leatherman or Gerber for reliable multitools.Warranty and repairability matter more than cheap prices.Replaceable cutters extend your multitool’s lifespan.I like having a good multitool close at hand at all times. While they can’t replace a proper toolkit, I don’t fancy carrying a full toolkit with me when I’m out and about. Many of my readers are like me, often finding themselves doing random and unplanned DIY tasks throughout the day,…

Key Takeaways Wedbush analysts wrote Monday that Microsoft stock has room to run in 2026 after it has recently pulled back from October’s record highs.Investors are still “underestimating” how much value Microsoft’s Azure cloud computing services could add as the AI industry continues to grow, the analysts said. Microsoft (MSFT) stock has set a number of records this year, and analysts think that trend can continue well into 2026. Wedbush analysts led by Dan Ives, who is particularly bullish on the artificial intelligence trade, wrote Monday that Microsoft remains undervalued as the new year approaches. The analysts reiterated their “outperform”…

(Investing)– The Trump administration on Monday said it suspended leases for five large-scale offshore wind projects that are being built off the U.S. East Coast over concerns they would interfere with military radar systems. The suspension marks the latest blow for offshore wind projects that have faced repeated disruptions under U.S. President Donald Trump, who has said he finds them ugly, costly and inefficient. Shares in Danish energy firm , which owns two of the projects affected, traded down more than 11% at 1415 GMT. “The prime duty of the United States government is to protect the American people,” said Secretary…

Key Takeaways Google parent Alphabet said Monday it’s buying energy infrastructure provider Intersect for $4.75 billion.CEO Sundar Pichai said the purchase will boost the firm’s ability to meet the power needs of AI data centers. Google parent Alphabet just struck another big energy deal aimed at growing its AI data center footprint. Alphabet (GOOGL) said Monday it’s buying energy infrastructure provider Intersect for $4.75 billion to help support its data center buildout. CEO Sundar Pichai said the purchase of Intersect, which Google had already owned a stake in through a previous funding round, “will help us expand capacity, operate more…

Key Takeaways Small towns may offer favorable tax treatment on Social Security and retirement income.Average home values in towns like Branson, Missouri, or Frankenmuth, Michigan, are often moderate, making homeownership more attainable for retirees.Towns with strong holiday traditions or year-round festive activities create a welcoming and engaging atmosphere for retirees. Affordability and comfort are two of the most important qualities retirees seek, and some small towns deliver both with an extra touch of holiday magic. Across the country, these communities transform their quiet main streets into celebrations of tradition and togetherness each December, often carrying the spirit well beyond the…

Key Takeaways Makeup and perfume maker Coty said Monday that Procter & Gamble veteran Markus Strobel will take over as interim CEO at the start of 2026.The CoverGirl parent company’s stock has lost more than half its value since the start of the year, as its business took a hit in the face of macroeconomic uncertainty and higher tariffs. Cosmetics maker Coty’s leadership is getting a makeover. The owner of CoverGirl, Rimmel, and Sally Hansen brands said Monday that Procter & Gamble (PG) veteran Markus Strobel is set to take over as its executive chair and interim CEO in the…

Key Takeaways Most Americans retire earlier than expected, with health issues and job loss being the main drivers of unplanned early exits. Experts recommend that people in their 40s and 50s plan by looking at best and worst case retirement scenarios and consider whether they can continue to work in their current jobs. Catch-up contributions to 401(k)s and IRAs can help boost savings, but planning on working longer is a risky retirement strategy given that many people retire before age 65. You’re fast approaching retirement, but don’t have enough money to comfortably retire just yet. Instead of stashing more money…

Key Takeaways The latest tweaks to Paramount Skydance’s offer for Warner Bros. Discovery address some of the concerns outlined by Warner Bros. last week.Stocks of all three companies involved in the battle for Hollywood dominance—the other being Netflix—moved Monday on the latest developments. Paramount wants Warner Bros. Warner Bros. wants Netflix. A tech billionaire hopes his personal guarantee can tip the scales in the other direction. Paramount Skydance (PSKY) on Monday tweaked its offer for Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD), addressing some of the concerns the latter company outlined in a letter to shareholders last week. Warner Bros. rebuffed Paramount CEO…

Jumbo CDs are one of the most versatile tools for savers. If you’re sitting on $100,000 and want to diversify some of your holdings into a savings account, this is arguably the best savings solution for you.Why? Because it achieves several objectives: One, the top-earning accounts offer rates above 4%, helping you earn thousands fast.Two, jumbo CDs don’t require you to tie up your money for long periods of time, as they have terms ranging from six months to one year on average. If you want to make some money, avoid the short-term capital gains tax and have quick access…

Key Takeaways Rocket Lab stock surged Monday, extending its recent rally after another successful launch this weekend.The launch helped Rocket Lab reach a new company record for the year. Rocket Lab (RKLB) shares surged Monday after another successful launch this weekend, adding to Friday’s gains following a U.S. Space Force deal. The shares were up nearly 9% in recent trading, after jumping close to 18% Friday. (Read our daily markets coverage here.)  Rocket Lab said Sunday that its Electron rocket took off successfully from a New Zealand spaceport this weekend. “The Wisdom Gods Guide” mission involved deploying satellites for Japan-based Earth…