Money

The true cost of inflation: How many Americans are living paycheck to paycheck?

Published

2 years ago

September 1, 2023

Amid the Federal Reserve’s persistent efforts to rein in inflation, a study has revealed that over 60% of Americans are grappling with living paycheck to paycheck, highlighting the enduring impact of high price escalations.

Conducted by LendingClub, the survey unveiled that 61% of adults struggled to make financial ends meet in July—a surge from 59% recorded in the same month of the previous year.

The survey’s findings correlate with recently released federal government data, indicating a 0.2% increase in the Personal Consumption Expenditures index, a pivotal gauge of inflation closely monitored by the Federal Reserve.

Core prices, excluding the more volatile food and energy components, have surged by 4.2% over the past year.

The report further elucidates that Americans are allocating more funds to dine out, attend live events, buy toys, clothing, and prescription drugs. Ordering dishes containing beef and veal has escalated by nearly 11% in July compared to the previous year. Similarly, having a beer at a bar or restaurant became around 4% costlier last month than in the corresponding period last year.

Clothing and footwear prices have risen by over 2.4% year-over-year in July, while children’s clothing experienced a steep 5.4% surge. Medical expenditures have also seen an uptick, with pharmaceutical costs soaring by 3.4% and prescription drug prices rising by 2.8% in July.

Healthcare expenses have amplified as well, with dental visits costing 5.3% more in July compared to the same period the previous year.

As the Federal Reserve contemplates whether to raise interest rates once more during its upcoming meeting, the latest data provide context. Expectations remain that the central bankers will retain the current rate range of 5.25%-5.5%, following a 25 basis point increase in July.

A recent statement from Moody’s Analytics Chief Economist highlighted that Americans are now shelling out an additional $709 monthly for essential goods and services compared to just two years ago.

Money

Commodities surge as oil volatility and metals hit record highs

Oil prices fluctuate due to geopolitical tensions; precious metals soar amid inflation concerns, sparking a commodities rally.

Published

23 hours ago

January 16, 2026

Harvey Vargas

Oil prices fluctuate due to geopolitical tensions; precious metals soar amid inflation concerns, sparking a commodities rally.

Global commodities are on the move, with oil prices swinging sharply as geopolitical tensions involving Iran fuel uncertainty across energy markets. Traders are closely watching supply risks and political flashpoints, driving short-term volatility.

Precious metals are stealing the spotlight, pushing to record highs as investors seek safety amid inflation concerns, interest-rate uncertainty and rising global risk. At the same time, industrial metals are surging, supported by demand expectations and tightening supply.

To unpack what this means for markets and investors, we’re joined by Kyle Rodda from Capital.com to break down the key drivers behind this powerful commodities rally.

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#Commodities #OilPrices #Gold #Metals #MarketVolatility #Geopolitics #Investing #TickerNews

Money

Stocks slide and Trump cancels talks: What’s next for markets and Greenland?

U.S. stocks dip; S&P 500 down 0.9%, as investors react to weak bank earnings and market volatility.

Published

2 days ago

January 15, 2026

Harvey Vargas

U.S. stocks dip; S&P 500 down 0.9%, as investors react to weak bank earnings and market volatility.

U.S. stocks fell for a second day on Wednesday, with the S&P 500 dropping 0.9% and the Dow Jones losing 164 points. Investors are reassessing record-high levels as major banks report weaker-than-expected earnings.

Wells Fargo shares tumbled more than 5% after disappointing revenue results, while Bank of America is down roughly 7% week to date. Citigroup and Wells Fargo have both seen declines of about 8%, highlighting volatility in the banking sector.

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#StockMarket #SP500 #DowJones #BankEarnings #TrumpNews #Iran #Greenland #Geopolitics

Money

U.S. budget deficit falls to $1.67 trillion

US budget deficit falls to $1.67 trillion amid tariffs; implications of corporate taxes and Supreme Court rulings discussed.

Published

2 days ago

January 15, 2026

Harvey Vargas

US budget deficit falls to $1.67 trillion amid tariffs; implications of corporate taxes and Supreme Court rulings discussed.

The US budget deficit has dropped to $1.67 trillion in 2025, the lowest in three years, driven by record customs revenue from President Donald Trump’s tariffs. While this marks a positive shift for the economy, challenges loom with potential Supreme Court rulings on tariffs and falling corporate tax receipts.

David Scutt from StoneX explains the key factors behind the decline in the deficit and what December’s figures reveal about the overall fiscal health of the US.

We also explore the potential implications of upcoming Supreme Court decisions and how the One Big Beautiful Bill Act could impact future deficits. Stay informed on what these changes mean for the economy and markets.

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#USBudget #DeficitUpdate #TrumpTariffs #FiscalPolicy #Economy2025 #SupremeCourtImpact #CorporateTaxes #FinancialNews