Money Matters

Every day, we encounter items with surprisingly high markups, often paying much more than the cost to produce them. But do you know which everyday purchases might be quietly draining your wallet? #1. Bottled Water Bottled water can be marked up over 1,000% compared to tap water. Opting for a reusable bottle and filtering your … Read more

One of America’s biggest gym franchises is raising its membership fees for the first time since the 1990s.  Planet Fitness Price Change New Planet Fitness members might be shaking their fists at the sky over recent news that the company, one of America’s largest fitness franchises, will be raising their monthly fees for basic memberships.  … Read more

In a move that has caused an outcry from both ends of the political divide, California Governor Gavin Newsom is pressing forward with ambitious plans to build a giant tunnel to catch rainwater. Tunnel Vision For decades, California authorities have been trying to create a water tunnel system like the one Newsom is currently pushing … Read more

The American Dream is a beacon for many, but navigating its financial waters can be tricky. Are you aware of the hidden costs and pitfalls that could derail your journey? #1. Overspending on Housing Many chase bigger, better homes, but this often leads to mortgage stress and limited funds for other goals. Smart buying within … Read more

Real estate transactions are big deals, involving your hard-earned money and dreams. Ever wonder if your real estate agent might be prioritizing their own interests over yours? #1. Commission-Driven Decisions Agents earn more when you spend more, which can sometimes lead them to push higher-priced properties, not necessarily the best fit for your budget or … Read more

Borrowers in the United States owe a total of over $1 trillion to credit card companies. The average American owes $6,218. These are the factors influencing the rise in debts. Inflation Affecting Most Americans At this point in the year, most American families and individuals who do not fall into uber-wealthy categories are feeling the … Read more

Your smartphone, while a marvel of modern technology, can be a stealthy financial drain. Have you ever wondered just how much your digital companion might be costing you? 1. High Data Usage Fees Streaming videos and music or using data-heavy apps can quickly eat through your plan, leading to costly overage charges. It’s wise to … Read more

Social media platforms are not just about connecting with others; they are sophisticated ecosystems designed to boost consumer spending. Here’s a deeper look at how these platforms subtly push you to open your wallet. #1. Targeted Advertising Social media uses complex algorithms to display ads that match your interests and past purchases, subtly persuading you … Read more

The pharmaceutical industry is known for its significant profits, often at the expense of consumers. Here are 20 methods through which Big Pharma capitalizes on illnesses. #1. High Drug Prices Pharmaceutical companies often set extremely high prices for new drugs, far beyond the cost of production and research. #2. Evergreening Companies make minor modifications to … Read more

Americans are borrowing more than they can repay, shining a light on how inflation and interest rates are affecting borrowers across the country.  Maxing Out A growing number of Americans are maxing out their credit cards, with nearly a fifth of borrowers using most of their available credit, according to a new report by the … Read more