Western Sanctions on Russia: How Effective Are They?

A Russian flag flying amidst storm clouds illustrates Western sanctions on Russia

What impact have Western sanctions on Russia truly had on its economy? How has Putin’s regime managed to adapt and survive despite these extensive restrictions? Russia’s response to international sanctions shows both vulnerability and resilience. While facing inflation and labor shortages, the nation has found ways to maintain its economy through oil production and financial innovation. Keep reading to learn about the effectiveness of sanctions against Russia and the steps that could make future measures more impactful.

Is a Bear Market Coming in 2025? Bearish vs. Bullish View

Stock market charts illustrate the question, "Is a bear market coming in 2025?"

Is a bear market coming in 2025? What signs point to a major stock market downturn? How can investors protect their wealth if we experience a bear market in 2025? Market experts are divided on what lies ahead for investors. While some analysts warn of an impending crash reminiscent of 1929, others see continued growth potential driven by artificial intelligence and strong market fundamentals. Keep reading to discover key indicators that could signal the next major market shift and learn strategies to safeguard your investments.

The Great Boomer Wealth Transfer May Set America Backward

A hand holding an old photograph of a baby boomer age couple with trees in the background

How will the baby boomer wealth transfer affect the economy? What are the different ways wealth is being passed down? The largest transfer of wealth in US history is underway, as Baby Boomers begin passing down $84 trillion in assets to younger generations. Rather than improving the economy, the Great Wealth Transfer is expected to widen inequality. Here’s a look at the problems the wealth transfer might cause and some fiscal changes that may be on the horizon.

The Home Goods Industry Slump: Causes & Survival Tactics

A living room full of furnishings illustrate the home goods industry

What’s behind the dramatic downturn in home furnishing sales since 2022? How are major retailers adapting to survive in today’s challenging market? The home goods industry faces its most significant slump since 2008, with retailers from Wayfair to Home Depot reporting substantial losses. From shifting consumer priorities to a stagnant housing market, multiple factors have created a perfect storm that’s reshaping how companies approach their business strategies. Keep reading to discover how industry leaders are innovating their way through this crisis and what the future holds for home goods retailers.

Why Is the US Healthcare System So Bad? Views From All Sides

A document on a table that has the word "denied" stamped on it in red, referencing the bad healthcare in the US

Why is the us healthcare system so bad? What are the different political views on universal healthcare? The murder of US health insurance CEO Brian Thompson in December 2024 sparked anger on social media over insurance claim denials, which are becoming increasingly common in the US, in contrast to countries where health care is a right. Here’s a look at the left, right, and center views on US healthcare.

The Little Book That Still Beats the Market by Joel Greenblatt

A woman reading a book beside a piggy bank and in front of a fireplace

What’s The Little Book That Still Beat the Market by Joel Greenblatt about? Is there a straightforward strategy that could help investors build wealth over time? Joel Greenblatt’s book, The Little Book That Still Beats the Market, introduces a powerful investment approach called the Magic Formula. This systematic strategy identifies undervalued companies by focusing on two key metrics: return on capital and earnings yield. Read below for a brief overview of The Little Book That Still Beats the Market.

Joel Greenblatt Magic Formula Investing Strategy: Explained

A red graph of stocks going up thanks to magic formula investing

How do successful investors consistently beat the market? Is there a formula that could help you identify undervalued stocks with strong potential? Joel Greenblatt’s Magic Formula investing strategy offers a systematic approach to identifying profitable investment opportunities through a combination of two key metrics: return on capital and earnings yield. Keep reading to discover how this straightforward strategy can help you achieve stock market success.

The Google Antitrust Ruling: A Pivotal Moment in Regulation

A magnifying glass magnifying "Google" on the Google search homepage illustrates the Google antitrust ruling

What happens when a tech giant violates antitrust laws? How might the Google antitrust ruling reshape the future of online search and digital competition? The landmark ruling against Google’s search business monopoly marks a pivotal moment in tech industry regulation. The decision challenges Google’s exclusive agreements and default search deals, potentially opening doors for competitors while reshaping how millions access information online. Keep reading to discover how this historic ruling could transform the tech landscape, impact digital advertising, and set new precedents for regulating big tech companies.

Lumber Prices in 2024: What Happened and Why (Analysis)

A stack of lumber at a home construction site illustrates lumber prices in 2024

What’s behind the dramatic 75% drop in lumber prices since their 2021 peak? How will these price changes affect homeowners and builders in the coming months? The lumber market has experienced unprecedented shifts, from pandemic-driven highs to record lows in 2024. These fluctuations have forced sawmills to adapt, created opportunities for buyers, and reshaped the construction industry landscape. Keep reading to understand what happened with lumber prices in 2024 and what these changes mean for your next building project and the market as a whole.

The Mortgage Refinancing Boom of 2024: Causes & Impact

An upscale house with a boxy design and nice landscaping illustrates the US mortgage refinancing boom that started in 2024

What does the current refinancing boom mean for homeowners? Why are mortgage applications hitting their highest levels since 2022? The refinancing surge of late 2024 marks a significant shift in the mortgage landscape, driven by falling interest rates and the Federal Reserve’s recent policy changes. Homeowners across the country are seizing opportunities to lower monthly payments, reduce loan terms, or tap into home equity for various financial needs. Keep reading to explore the factors driving this refinancing boom and how it’s affecting the mortgage market.