‘Galactic Tick Day’ Celebrates Sun’s Trip Around the Galaxy

My Comments: Every now and then something surfaces that has nothing to do with finance, but is both interesting and useless. This is one of those things. By Calla Cofield, Space.com Staff Writer | September 6, 2016 Every time the Earth makes one complete loop around the sun, humans celebrate the journey with some kind …

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The Stock Market Is About To Have A ‘Final Melt Up’

My Comments: Anyone who suggests they know what is likely to happen to the markets in the coming days is probably just hoping they will be right. And that includes me. A high percentage of significant market downturns have happened in August and September. This article suggests there is an event planned for the end …

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Social Security: 10 smart ways to get more benefits

My Comments: For most 21st Century Americans who live long enough to retire, a monthly check from the Social Security Administration is at the core of their future financial freedom. This is a state of mind that says we “have enough money coming in to pay our basic bills for shelter, for food, for transportation, …

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Howard Johnson’s Restaurants – Only 1 left

My Comments: In my youth, Howard Johnson was the standard when it came to motels and places to eat when traveling in the US. They were everywhere. But times change, ideas reach their expiration date, and the  business model falters unless someone brings a new vision to the table. Sometimes it's impossible to remain relevant …

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How the The Social Security Spouse Benefit Works

My Comments: Our Social Security system is a vital source of income for the vast majority of us who are age 62 and beyond. If you have a qualified earnings history, by the time you reach age 62 you can elect to start receiving a lifetime annuity, one that has a cost of living adjustment …

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A New Policy Orthodoxy Is Emerging

My Comments: The more things change, the more they stay the same. Or is it the other way around? If your future financial wellbeing depends on guarantees and positive market performance, the more you need to pay attention to these trends. Or at least interact with professionals who do follow and understand them. This is …

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WHY IT MATTERS: Income Inequality

My Comments: I’ve argued frequently that if income inequality is not addressed, our children and grandchildren will be rioting in the streets of America. I’ve also argued that the recent rioting in Louisiana, and elsewhere, ostensibly because of racial issues, is as much caused by economic disparity as it is racial disparity. At the extreme, …

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Options for Funding Long-Term Care Expenses

My Comments: When you reach retirement age, the elephant in the room becomes Long Term Care. This is when someone in the household becomes unable to perform two of what are called Actitivies of Daily Living, or ADLs. A healthy spouse will simply take on more and more to help the affected person manage and …

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‘Biggest Bond Bubble in History’ is About to Burst

My Comments: Broken record time again. The punditry has almost one voice and yet the markets are not listening. I can’t wait until November 9 arrives. Aug 20, 2016 – The Irish Times “The market can remain irrational longer than you can remain solvent,” is a famous quote, often attributed to JM Keynes. And indeed …

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Understanding Social Security Spousal Benefits

My Comments: these details were found at a site called WiserWomen.com . They are consistent with my thoughts about how to get the most from the Social Security system as you ask questions to find the optimal timing to apply and possibly suspend your benefits. If you want a personal analysis and comprehensive report, talk …

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