FIRE Aggregator #2: 1999 All Over Again? Plus: Why your kids hate you (financially), barn life hacks, and where to stand your emergency fund 🎯📈👶🏠💰
🎯 Finishing Rich Despite A Low-Return Stock Market Environment Goldman Sachs and Vanguard are forecasting just 3% annual returns for the next decade. Ready to give up? Not so fast. From real estate plays to private AI investments, discover why savvy investors are looking beyond the S&P 500. Plus: The surprising reason why your safe withdrawal rate might need an overhaul in this new era.
📈 1999 vs. 2024: More Similar Than You Think? Is history rhyming again? While 2024's 20% market gain looks impressive, the numbers reveal a fascinating story: 101 stocks doubled this year, but 137 halved in value. Five tech giants are driving half the S&P's gains, with Nvidia alone responsible for 25%. Compare that to 1999's wild ride when 13 stocks soared 1000%+. Are we partying like it's 1999, or is this time different?
👶 Why Economic Outpatient Care Doesn't Work Think supporting your adult kids is helping them? Think again. Fresh research shows how financial handouts actually harm wealth-building across generations. From minimum wage jobs to pocket money lessons, discover why teaching independence beats writing checks. Plus: The counterintuitive reason why being the "bad guy" parent might be the kindest move you can make.
🏠 Barndominiums: Your VA Loan Hack Looking for affordable housing with a twist? VA loans aren't just for traditional homes anymore. Learn how military members can leverage their benefits to build or buy these trendy barn-turned-homes at half the cost of conventional properties. Warning: Not all barndominiums qualify – here's what you need to know before jumping in.
💰 I-Bonds vs T-Bills: The Emergency Fund Showdown With I-bond rates dropping and T-bills yielding over 4%, is it time to rethink your emergency fund strategy? Bogleheads weigh in on the tax advantages, liquidity trade-offs, and why some are building "ladders" instead of holding cash. Plus: The Treasury Direct horror stories you need to hear before making your choice.