Flashback: $2,000 Gold Is Just The Beginning. Here’s What Might Happen Next–

Flashback: $2,000 Gold Is Just The Beginning. Here’s What Might Happen Next–

Notes From the Field By James Hickman (Simon Black)  December 17, 2025

Today we’ll continue to look back at past articles that have become especially relevant, as many of the trends we warned about are now playing out in real time.

 Yesterday we talked about how, back in 2022, we encouraged readers to move into real assets at a time when the dollar was irrationally strong. Gold was cheap, interest rates were near zero, and most people were still drinking the Kool-Aid.

 It was one of those rare moments when the writing was on the wall, but the price tags hadn’t caught up yet.

 Then in November 2023, gold crossed $2,000 for the first time. And we said: this is just the beginning. 

Not because we’re gold bugs or speculators—but because we saw the early signs of the US dollar's 80 year reign of global dominance starting to shift. We were pointing to the long-term, systemic forces driving it. Out-of-control debt, eroding trust in institutions, and the creeping de-dollarization of global finance.

 We said, “we could easily see central banks around the world ditching their US dollars and loading up on gold as part of a new, de-dollarized global financial system.”

 “This could potentially trigger trillions of dollars worth of capital inflows into the gold market, causing a surge in gold prices.”

 We said $2,000 was the beginning. Now with gold trading over $4,300, we’re not going to say this is the beginning. But it’s certainly not the end. 

Public Law 93-373 was supposed to be so boring that Congress didn’t even bother to give it a name.

 You know how most laws passed by Congress have some fancy name-- like the “Inflation Reduction Act” or the “USA PATRIOT Act” or some such nonsense?

 Well, on November 7, 1973, US Senator James Fulbright introduced a very short bill-- it was only ONE page-- that didn’t even have a name. But Fulbright’s unnamed bill ended up being one of the most important pieces of legislation in US history.

 By the time Fulbright introduced his bill, it had been two years since the legendary “Nixon Shock” of 1971. That was when US President Richard Nixon implemented wage and price controls, and canceled the US dollar’s convertibility into gold.

 Nixon famously promised the American public that there wouldn’t be any negative consequences from his actions. Yet inflation hit 3% the following year, in 1972. Then 4.7% in 1973. Then 11.2% in 1974.

Simultaneously, gold prices around the world were surging… from $35/ounce before the Nixon Shock, to more than $170 in 1974.

 But individual Americans weren’t allowed to benefit from those gains thanks to a forty year old executive order that had been signed in 1933 by then President Franklin Roosevelt.

 Roosevelt’s Executive Order 6102 criminalized the private ownership of more than $100 worth of gold in the United States. Roosevelt also gave Americans just 25 days to turn over their gold to the Federal Reserve… or else face up to ten years in prison.

 Naturally, plenty of Americans were outraged, and a number of lawsuits were filed claiming that Roosevelt’s order was unconstitutional.

 Roosevelt was rightfully worried that the Supreme Court would overturn his order. And at a certain point he considered packing the court, i.e. appointing several sympathetic judges to the Supreme Court to ensure his victory. He also considered issuing another order which would make it illegal to sue the federal government.

 Fortunately for Roosevelt, however, he didn’t have to implement any of those actions; the Supreme Court very narrowly ruled in his favor, and his Executive Order stood as law of the land for four decades… until Senator Fulbright’s no-name law was finally passed on August 14, 1974.

 It went into effect the following year, and Americans were suddenly free once again to exchange their rapidly-depreciating US dollars for gold.

 Unsurprisingly, gold prices started rising dramatically in the second half of the decade... from about $180 in 1975, to a whopping $850 in January 1980.

 And the declining dollar was just one reason for gold’s popularity; remember, the United States suffered a deluge of troubles during the 1970s and early 1980s.

 The world found out that the US President was a criminal during the Watergate scandal of 1974. Then there was the humiliating US withdrawal from Vietnam in 1975, complete with a helicopter evacuation of the American embassy in Saigon.

 Iran seized 52 US citizens in 1979 and held them hostage for more than a year.

 Inflation raged, peaking at 13.6%. The economy stagnated and fell into recession. Troubles in the Middle East (including conflict with Israel) led to energy shortages and rising fuel prices.

 Civil unrest and ‘mostly peaceful’ protests were a constant problem in the 70s and 80s. Meanwhile, criminals rampaged across American cities, and the murder rate soared. Major cities like New York, LA, and Chicago became synonymous with violent crime.

 The world stopped making sense. And gold became a safe haven from that chaos.

 There’s an old saying (originally a Danish proverb) suggesting that if history doesn’t repeat, it certainly rhymes. And I think it’s obvious that we’re facing many of the same challenges today.

 There are major problems in the Middle East. Energy is becoming scarce (especially in Europe). The US military suffered a humiliating withdrawal from Afghanistan. Civil unrest and crime rates are totally unacceptable. Inflation continues to rage. And the President, a.k.a. “the Big Guy” appears suspicious A.F.

 Just like in the 1970s, gold represents a safe haven from this chaos. And even though it’s hovering at a near-record around $2,000, I think that there is still a long way for gold to rise.

 The US national debt is now $33.7 trillion; that’s up more than HALF A TRILLION just in the month of October.

 The people in charge have absolutely zero fiscal restraint. Zero responsibility.

 Zero sense of how destructive their actions are. They spend money and go deeper into debt as if there will never be any consequences, ever, until the end of time. They’re disgustingly ignorant, and dangerous.

 The truth is that there are serious consequences to all of this debt. And we don’t have to guess what they are.

 The Congressional Budget Office is already projecting that, by 2031, the US government will spend 100% of its tax revenue just on mandatory entitlements (like Social Security) and interest on the debt.

 This means that, after 2031, the funding for literally everything else in government-- from the US military to the light bill at the White House-- will have to be funded by more debt.

 That’s only 7 years away.

 Then, two years later in 2033, Social Security’s primary trust fund will run out of money; this will cost the government an additional $1 trillion in additional spending each year to keep the program running. Naturally they’ll have to borrow that money too.

 Eventually the national debt will become so large that simply paying interest each year will consume more than 100% of tax revenue.

The Federal Reserve will most likely attempt to bail out government by creating trillions upon trillions of dollars. But just as we saw over the past few years, such actions will most likely result in much higher inflation.

 Disgusted with their financial circumstance, voters across America will likely turn to Socialist politicians who blame all the problems on the evils of capitalism, rather than their own incompetence. And with a majority of leftists running the country, they’ll only make things worse.

 I also anticipate more conflict in the world, thanks in large part to the continued decline of America’s stature and reputation for strength.

 It’s also quite likely that the US dollar could lose its royal status as the world’s dominant reserve currency by the end of the decade.

 I don’t necessarily believe that the dollar will simply vanish from global trade.

 But it won’t be “King” dollar anymore. Perhaps more like “Earl” or “Viscount” dollar, alongside other currencies and exchange mechanisms-- including gold.

 In fact we could easily see central banks around the world ditching their US dollars and loading up on gold as part of a new, de-dollarized global financial system.

 This could potentially trigger trillions of dollars worth of capital inflows into the gold market, causing a surge in gold prices.

 And these are just some of the reasons why gold could still have a long, long way to rise from here.

 Bear in mind that I’m not thinking about the gold price next month, or even next year. I think long-term, and my views on gold are based on trends that will likely continue to unfold over the next decade.

 I’m not a ‘gold bug’. I don’t have a fanatical view about anything other than my own children. I’m not a gold speculator either.

 But it’s obvious to me that in an upside down world where there are such obvious long-term threats to the US dollar, it makes sense to look for real stores of value.

 And that’s why $2,000 gold could just be the beginning of a much bigger story.

 To your freedom,   James Hickman   Co-Founder, Schiff Sovereign LLC

 TO READ MORE: LINK

11 Secrets To Saving More Money in 2026

11 Secrets To Saving More Money in 2026

Caitlyn Moorhead  Mon, December 15, 2025  GOBankingRates

If you noticed a drop in your savings account balance this past year, you might be thinking about making a New Year’s resolution to spend less in the coming year. If so, you aren’t alone, as everyone in this economy seems to be struggling to make ends meet.

In fact, financial stress is one of the top concerns for Americans, with many worried about living paycheck to paycheck or never being able to retire. However, with the right strategies, you can cut expenses, build savings and improve your financial health throughout the year.

From tracking your spending to automating contributions, here are 11 smart money-saving tips for 2026 that will help you stick to your goals and build your wealth.

1. Take Advantage of Deals Right Away

January is a bargain hunter’s paradise. For example, you can save up to 90% on holiday decor during after-Christmas sales. Big-box stores are trying to move inventory and their loss is your financial gain for the next December.

Winter coats, apparel and outdoor gear also tend to be deeply discounted after the holidays. Additionally, try using January sales to shop for home goods like sheets, bedding and furniture.

 2. Track Ever-Rising Prices

Some consumer goods, products or foods might rise in price next year, so do your research. Then, limit purchases of these items, stock up when they go on sale, look for lower-priced brands and purchase conventional instead of organic options.

Prices on consumer goods can fluctuate wildly in a matter of days, thanks to tariffs or just the general rising cost of living. To avoid overpaying, it’s wise to use an online price tracker or download an app to monitor rates on items you want to buy.

3. Don’t Miss Out on Price Adjustments or Price Matches

Best Buy and Kohl’s will price-match with competitors, while Target and Walmart will price-match their own inventory at different store locations. This means you can get a price adjustment if items purchased at full price drop in cost within a certain number of days. Typically, if you present proof of the price you paid to the retailer, you will be credited for the difference.

Tired of wasting time driving from store to store to find the best prices? Use free mobile apps such as Red Laser and ShopSavvy to scan product barcodes and see if another retailer is offering the product you want for a lower price. In some cases, you can even use that information to get the store you’re currently shopping at to match a competitor’s price.

4. Use Discounted Gift Cards for Everyday Essentials

Gift cards aren’t just for gifts. If you buy them for less than face value — as you can almost always do at Costco and Sam’s Club — they’re a great way to save money on things you regularly purchase.

You can also find discounted gift cards for supermarkets, drugstores, gas stations, restaurants and hundreds of retailers online at sites such as CardCash and Raise.

5. Unlock Promo Codes on Social Media

TO READ MORE:  https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/articles/11-secrets-saving-more-money-140404831.html

5 Steps I Now Take To Protect My Money

5 Steps I Now Take To Protect My Money

I Recovered Financially From Identity Theft: 5 Steps I Now Take To Protect My Money

Cynthia Measom  Mon, Aug 12, 2024  GOBankingRates

When Marissa was a single woman in her 40s, she was going through some medical challenges that required several surgeries and treatments.

“Between procedures, consultations and follow-ups, I found myself writing checks more often, mainly to hospital billing departments, specialist offices and pharmacies,” she explained. “I had trusted that my financial transactions were secure and stayed focused on my recovery, wanting to get back to a normal life.”

Little did she know that she was about to experience a new challenge: a stolen identity.

How the Identity Theft Happened

Marissa said that she was glancing through her bank statements — something she had been putting off for a couple of months — and noticed a check that didn’t look familiar. It was written at a retail store in a state she had never even visited.

“I had so many medical payments going out, and my mind was often scattered with everything going on, but this stood out like a red flag, because I had only written checks connected to my medical expenses,” Marissa said. “I panicked and began combing through my statements, checking every line, every check and every payment. I found out checks in my name were being written all over the country — some at retail stores, others at restaurants, even a few at high-end boutiques.”

That’s when she realized her worst fears: her identity had been stolen.

“I immediately contacted my bank, and they confirmed it,” Marissa said. “Someone had somehow gained access to my checking account and was forging checks they had created in my name with my account number. I thought I had always been cautious and careful with my information, but it hadn’t been enough.”

After reporting the theft to the authorities and closing her compromised accounts, Marissa  began to piece together what might have happened. She concluded it had to be from the checks she had written in connection with her medical bills.

Later, the person responsible was arrested by authorities, and it was determined it was an employee of the hospital billing department where Marissa had received treatment.

How Marissa Protects Her Money Now

After her identity was stolen, here are the steps Marissa has taken to help protect her money.

Online Payments Only

Marissa said that she now avoids writing checks altogether.

“Instead, I use secure online payment portals for my bills, which offer encryption and other protections that checks simply do not,” she explained.

To Read More:  https://finance.yahoo.com/news/recovered-financially-identity-theft-5-160005704.html

Wealthy Americans Are Moving Cash Out Of Checking And Savings Accounts

Wealthy Americans Are Moving Cash Out Of Checking And Savings Accounts

 Here’s what they’re doing with it  Sun, December 14, 2025 Moneywise

Moneywise and Yahoo Finance LLC may earn commission or revenue through links in the content below.

Consumer confidence dropped sharply in November, falling to its lowest point since April, when concern over President Trump’s tariffs was driving economic anxiety (1).

Possibly as a result, Americans have pulled back on spending. A delayed report from the Department of Commerce shows that while consumer spending rose 0.02% from the previous month, sales are sluggish compared to the 0.6% increase recorded in July and August and 1% increase in June (2).

What are they doing with their money instead? New research from JPMorgan Chase's Institute of Financial Health and Wealth Creation found that after accounting for inflation, savings and checking balances have essentially been stagnant for nearly two years .

When it comes to high-income households, bank balances have even been shrinking, landing at negative 2% in October 2025 (3).

Where did the money go?

The report notes that higher-income households are instead moving cash out of regular bank accounts and into higher-yield options, such as money market funds, brokerage accounts and certificates of deposit (CDs) (3).

With inflation hovering around 3.0% — well above the 2% target — it seems traditional accounts just aren’t cutting it (4).

With incomes barely improving and everyday costs still high, many consumers now have “just enough to spend but not enough to splurge,” which explains why spending is falling.

Where are Americans putting their money?

Rather than spending more, many households are turning to investment-style options with higher returns for their cash. If you're thinking about doing the same, here are some of the most popular alternatives:

High-yield cash accounts

These function like regular savings accounts but offer much higher interest rates. For example, a SoFi checking and savings account can help you build your wealth base through a combination of high-interest rates, zero fees and ease of access.

A SoFi account can provide a base 3.60% APY, but new clients can get a 0.70% boost for up to 6 months for a total APY of 4.30%. That’s over ten times the national deposit savings rate, according to the FDIC’s November report.

With no account fees and no-fee overdraft coverage, you keep more of your money in your pocket. Plus, SoFi account balances of up to $3 million are insured by the FDIC through program banks.

To help jumpstart your savings, you can get up to $300 when you sign up with SoFi and set up a direct deposit.

For other savings options offering a range of new customer bonus options, check out the Moneywise list of top savings accounts of 2025.

Certificates of deposit (CDs)

With the Fed cutting interest rates recently, many savers are already seeing those yields drop. That makes locked-in returns more valuable than ever — and that’s where a certificate of deposit (CD) shines.

With a CD, you lock in a guaranteed rate upfront, so your earnings stay steady for a set term, even if rates slip further. It’s predictable, reliable growth, which is something you don’t always get with traditional accounts.

Raisin makes that even easier by giving you access to high-yield and no-penalty CDs from top U.S. banks, all with no fees and minimums as low as $1.

TO READ MORE:  https://finance.yahoo.com/news/wealthy-americans-moving-cash-checking-124500548.html

Inflation Tops Retirement Worries for Americans

Inflation Tops Retirement Worries for Americans, but Financial Advisors Disagree

Gabrielle Olya   Mon, December 8, 2025   GOBankingRates

Planning for retirement means preparing for risks that could derail your financial security — but Americans and financial advisors don’t agree on what those risks are. A new report from the Alliance for Lifetime Income reveals a surprising disconnect that may be putting long-term security in jeopardy.

According to average Americans and their advisors, here’s a look at the biggest retirement risks.

*************************************

Why Americans Fear Inflation Most

According to the report, consumers’ No. 1 concern when it comes to retirement is inflation, with 63% seeing this as a retirement risk. However, advisors don’t list inflation as a top risk at all. Instead, they see the biggest retirement risks as outliving savings (56%) and market volatility (51%).

“Despite the obvious disconnect, both are right for different reasons,” said Cyrus Bamji, chief strategy and communications officer at the Alliance for Lifetime Income. “Consumers and advisors emphasize different risks because they feel, experience and understand them from different perspectives.”

Bamji noted that consumers feel inflation directly in their day-to-day lives and expenses, so to them, higher prices become the most immediate and tangible threat.

“It’s emotionally charged, and we’ve been living through it for almost four years now,” he said. “Unfortunately, research shows that most people underestimate how long they’ll live, which makes inflation feel like the dominant, immediate worry rather than a long-term planning issue.”

What Advisors See as the Real Retirement Risks

TO READ MORE:  https://finance.yahoo.com/news/inflation-tops-retirement-worries-americans-161207155.html

Why Financial Advisors Are Updating Retirement Advice

 Why Financial Advisors Are Updating Retirement Advice Here's What It Means for You

Jordyn Bradley   Mon, December 8, 2025   Investopedia

Key Takeaways

• Two-thirds of financial advisors are changing their retirement investment advice for clients due to a volatile market and economic uncertainty, according to a new report from Alliance for Lifetime Income.

• Financial advisors are changing their recommendations based on inflation, Social Security and Medicare uncertainty, and cost-of-living concerns.

• Advisors recommend considering their withdrawal strategy and evaluating assets they may not have incorporated.

 A volatile market and economic uncertainty have led financial advisors to shift how they're helping clients make decisions.

Two-thirds of financial advisors are changing their retirement investment advice for clients, according to a new report from Alliance for Lifetime Income released Thursday.

“Rising inflation, uncertainty around Social Security and Medicare, and overall cost-of-living concerns have led us to adjust both the conversations we’re having and the strategies we’re recommending,” said Nathan Sebesta, a certified financial planner.

Advisors say clients should consider their withdrawal strategy and look to create buffers against volatility. Sebesta said he has even encouraged his clients to consider a phased retirement or part-time work to create more stability amid all the uncertainty.

“In many cases, we’re helping clients rethink retirement altogether,” Sebesta said.

Sequence Risks Are Top of Mind

He also said he is having more conversations with clients about building cash buffers and revisiting allocation models to reduce sequence risk.

Sequence risk, or sequence-of-returns risk, is the risk that the timing of withdrawals from a retirement account can negatively impact an investor’s overall return. When you retire, you begin regularly withdrawing money instead of contributing new money to your account. In bull markets, these withdrawals are partly offset by new gains, but bear markets don’t see new gains.

While sequence risk is largely a matter of luck, it’s essential to remember these things when planning to retire, financial advisors said. Retirees who strictly rely on their portfolio to live off of in retirement might feel the brunt of a bear market, which could lead to making decisions to alter their retirement plan.

Because there is so much that isn’t predictable when it comes to retirement saving, Scott Bishop, another certified financial planner, said there isn’t one-size-fits-all advice. His advice has had to adjust, though. In order for them to create a sustainable plan, clients need to lock down two important details, he said.

“There is no ‘regiment number’ or ‘withdrawal rate’ that will be relevant if they don’t know how much they both need to spend and then want to spend on top of that,” said Bishop.

TO READ MORE:  https://www.yahoo.com/finance/news/why-financial-advisors-updating-retirement-225140273.html

How Old Is Too Old To Buy a House?

How Old Is Too Old To Buy a House?

Sarah Sharkey  Tue, December 9, 2025  GOBankingRates

Buying a house is a major financial decision. And for older homebuyers, the decision to purchase a new home comes with extra significance. While you’re never too old to buy a house, age can play a significant role in determining if the purchase is the best move for your finances.

From mortgage eligibility to long-term financial planning, the decision to purchase property in your 50s, 60s, or beyond depends on your unique circumstances. GOBankingRates reached out to the experts for their insights on whether you’re ever too old to buy a house, and what factors middle-aged and senior homebuyers should consider before making this major investment.

Older Buyers Should Take the Time To Think Things Through

Personal finance expert Suze Orman doesn’t think age should preclude a buyer from making a home purchase, but she does recommend taking the time to think about it carefully. Buying a home at any age only makes sense if you can afford it financially.

In Orman’s opinion, being able to afford a home purchase means the ability to put down at least 20% while holding onto a robust emergency fund. She also suggests not dipping too far into your retirement nest egg to cover the costs and choosing a 15-year fixed-rate mortgage.

Future Needs Become Especially Important

If buying a home later in life, it must meet your current and future living needs. Of course, this applies to the financial principles of not spending down too much of your retirement savings to make this purchase. But it also applies to the physical realities of aging.

“Retirees often come down to Florida dreaming of palm trees and a golf cart lifestyle, but they sometimes jump into a purchase without thinking a few years ahead,” said Jessica Robinson, co-owner of Family Nest North Central Florida, a company that helps families navigate transition periods, like aging.

“I once had a sweet couple buy a two-story home in a gorgeous 55+ community, but after a year, those stairs became a daily hassle and they ended up selling,” she continued. “That’s why I always tell my clients to try and think five to 10 years out when they’re buying a house.”

Before moving forward with a home purchase, make sure it is likely to fit your future needs.

Keep Maintenance in Mind

TO READ MORE:  https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/articles/old-too-old-buy-house-210212907.html

20 Life Traps That Are So, So, Sooooo Easy To Fall Into

20 Life Traps That Are So, So, Sooooo Easy To Fall Into, But Should Be Avoided At ALL COSTS

Jake Farrington  Sun, November 9, 2025   BuzzFeed

In our culture, we don't really respect our elders enough, despite hearing that phrase over and over growing up. While I think people of every generation have something to teach each other, young or old, it's undeniable that people with more life experience have wisdom to impart on those just getting started.

Recently, Reddit user Otherwise-Body-7721 asked, "What's a 'trap' in life that no one warns young people about, but absolutely should?" I found a lot of wisdom in this thread, and had to share some of the best advice from people who have lived to tell their tales.

1. "Don't become so focused on achievement that you forget to enjoy life."  —u/Klutzy_Dirt_923

"I had a roommate for a bit in my 20s. He tied his self-worth to his job performance. He'd come home sad or angry that his project wasn't moving quickly enough. We were at a bar together once, and I heard him crash and burn with a girl who seemed interested because he kept being self-deprecating and complaining about his job instead of talking about anything interesting he did.

Too many people put their self-worth in their job/achievements rather than seeing that as a financial means to support the life they want."  —u/dishonourableaccount

2. "Credit card debt. It's amazing how quickly debt can build, and as a young person, you assume you'll just pay it off. In reality, if you're not careful, suddenly it's overwhelming!"  —u/Riesroshi

3. "There are a lot of people around me who just never travel and work themselves to death. It's pretty sad. Even a weekend getaway to a state park or something does wonders for resetting how you feel mentally. They say they will travel when they're retired, but you don't know if you'll be here, and your health will certainly be worse than now if you are."  —u/Puzzleheaded-Owl7664

4. "Don't be in a rush to settle down. I'm 30 and I’ve seen many people settling down with the wrong person, and their partners slowly erode their enjoyment of life."  —u/Critical_Dot6979

"Even worse? Having babies with them. I have a friend who openly admits she regrets having kids with her husband."  —u/Any_Difficulty_6817

"Your partner's problems can ruin your life. And falling in love makes it really hard to objectively look at how serious those problems may be."  —u/Outrageous-9859

5. "Fiber is love, fiber is life."   —u/Pleasant_Scar9811

6. "For me, one of the biggest traps is social media, especially apps like TikTok or Instagram. They mess with your dopamine, your attention span, your self-esteem, and even your relationships. It’s so easy to block, unfollow, or replace people the moment there’s conflict or disagreement, instead of learning to communicate, commit, and work through things.

There’s also an overload of opinions and advice out there; it can leave you confused or disconnected from your own judgment. I’m still hooked on it myself, and I can see both the good and the bad sides. But it’s such a massive influence on young people’s lives now and not always in a healthy way." —u/Curious-0ne

7. "Lifestyle creep! You get a raise and immediately upgrade your apartment or your car, locking yourself into a higher cost of living forever! No one tells you that saving your raise is the only way to get free!" —u/Wrong-Election1997

"We qualified for a mortgage four times higher than what I wanted. I refused to spend that much. I love our home, and it's now worth over six times what I paid. I refused the 'lifestyle creep'. We all have a choice."  —u/thegeeksshallinherit

8. "Don't feel like you have to have it all figured out. At 40, I am winging it as much as I did when I was 16. I assumed adults felt more put-together, but I’m still waiting for that to actually happen. I remember my parents turning 40 and having a big 'over the hill' party with all sorts of senior props. I celebrated my 40th earlier this year with a week at Disney. Definitely still just an oversized child here."  —u/Hi_NOT_the_problem

9. "I had a boss give me the good advice of ‘don’t be good at what you don’t want to do.’ Unfortunately, I received that advice late and wasted some years doing things that weren’t interesting or challenging.

There’s nothing wrong with knowing how to do jobs you don’t want (in fact, it can be a very good thing), but sometimes you may want to hide some of that talent from management and potential employers to avoid getting pigeon-holed. If you make yourself irreplaceable with skills you don’t enjoy utilizing, you will find that management has almost no incentive to promote you."   —u/Boxcars4Peace

10. "Finally being able to afford 'the good version' of something, only to realize you're now too scared to actually use it. My fancy towels were 'for guests' who don't exist. My nice pans were 'for special occasions.' My entire adult life became a museum of things I was terrified to ruin."  —u/Kitchen-Fan6343

TO READ MORE:  https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/articles/older-people-warning-younger-people-011602549.html

How Rich People Respond to Financial Turbulence

How Rich People Respond to Financial Turbulence, According to Robert Kiyosaki

Rebekah Evans   Tue, December 2, 2025   GOBankingRates

In everyone’s life, a little financial stress is bound to happen. The difference between what you do and what rich people do is one of the reasons they are rich and you are not, according to money guru Robert Kiyosaki.

The best-selling author of “Rich Dad, Poor Dad” outlined in a blog post, “3 Reasons Why You Are So Stressed About Money (and How to Deal with Financial Turbulence),” how rich people respond to bad fiscal times.

During choppy periods, here is how rich people respond to financial turbulence, according to Kiyosaki.

Bad Financial Advice

Kiyosaki noted that oftentimes we can make ourselves sick, worried about doing the wrong thing with our money or not doing enough of the right thing to cultivate our wealth. Chances are that we’ve heard some wisdom that was not so sage, causing us to panic or make a hasty decision that puts our financials in jeopardy.

Rich people, however, learn to take advice, as well as start to parcel out what does not work for them. For example, Kiyosaki pointed out that lots of us are told we need high-paying jobs in order to be successful, while rich people start companies, make investments and never worry about being an employee for anyone.

Losing Control of Money

You might have access to a bank and put your paycheck into an account, but what are you doing with your money after that? Even more important: Can you do anything or is the power over your money tied up with someone else or some institution? Are you able to generate income on your own or tied to a job that gives you a salary?

TO READ MORE: https://finance.yahoo.com/news/rich-people-respond-financial-turbulence-185505090.html

Some Thoughts on Silver’s All Time High

Some Thoughts on Silver’s All Time High

Notes From the Field By James Hickman (Simon Black)   December 3, 2025

The ancient people of Uruk— who lived in modern-day southern Iraq more than 5,000 years ago— didn’t seem terribly interested in bequeathing colorful stories of their civilization to history.

Rather than memorialize abundant tales of their immense works, or chisel countless tablets embellishing stories of their military victories, the main artifacts they left behind to modern historians are rather mundane market accounts and grain prices.

It would be as if the only thing to be locked into a time capsule from our own era were the stock section of the Wall Street Journal. It would hardly be a reasonable description of our time.

Nevertheless, the ancient scribes of Uruk went to great lengths to record financial and commercial transactions. And one of the things we can see from their civilization is that they used silver (and NOT gold) as the primary medium of exchange.

It’s interesting to note that they did not bother minting coins. Rather, silver was weighed in bulk— the unit of measurement eventually becoming the shekel, around 8.3 grams— and then traded for grain.

(Just imagine paying for your groceries by piling a bunch of scrap and raw silver onto a scale.)

Gold was obviously a well-known commodity and considered extremely valuable... but far too rare to be used as everyday money. So silver remained the dominant financial standard for thousands of years.

Even by the time of the ancient Greeks, and then subsequently the Roman Republic, silver coins (the Greek drachma and Roman denarius) were the primary currencies of those civilizations.

But by then there was a bi-metallic system... a fixed ‘exchange rate’ that governments set between gold and silver.

In ancient Babylon during the reign of Nebuchadnezzar II, for example, cuneiform tablets show silver being exchanged for gold at a ratio of 10 to 1.

A few decades later, in the 6th century BC, King Croesus of Lydia minted the first standardized gold and silver coins, setting an official exchange rate—again, roughly 10 to 1.

The Persians under Darius the Great fixed it at 13 to 1. The Romans under Julius Caesar set it at 12 to 1.

Even as recently as 1792, the newly formed United States established a silver-to-gold ratio of 15 to 1 in the very first Coinage Act.

It wasn’t until the late 20th century—when postwar Bretton Woods gold standard was fully abandoned—that this ratio between gold and silver was finally left to the market. Since then it’s ranged from about 25:1… all the way up to 120:1.

Right now it’s somewhere in the middle of that modern range— around 73:1... and the ratio has been falling fast, primarily because silver has been on an absolute tear.

This is pretty crazy when you think about it; gold has skyrocketed this year. But silver is up even more.

And there are a lot of people who focus very heavily on this silver-to-gold ratio and believe that it will inevitably fall to its historic average of roughly 50:1. Still others think that the ratio will fall even further to 15:1, where it was originally set by Congress in 1792.

This would mean $85+ silver, or even $250+ silver.

But here’s the problem: the gold/silver ratio is meaningless. There’s no law or financial regulation requiring the ratio to be at a certain level. Just because it has historically hovered around 50:1 doesn’t mean it can’t go to 5,000:1.

Instead, in order to understand either metal’s trajectory, we should look at supply and demand.

This is why we’ve been so bullish on gold; for the past three years, central bank demand for gold has been soaring, primarily because foreign countries have been rapidly and aggressively diversifying their US dollar holdings.

And for a sovereign government, gold makes a lot of sense. It’s portable. Universally recognized. It’s a traditional strategic reserve asset.

And most importantly, unlike US government bonds or even IMF “Strategic Drawing Rights”, gold isn’t controlled by anyone... no other government, central bank, or supranational institution.

So there’s zero counterparty risk, i.e. no country has to be worried about being sanctioned or frozen out of its own gold bullion holdings.

This trend of foreign governments and central banks buying massive quantities of  gold has sent the metal to its all-time high. And that extra demand has been more than enough to offset weakening gold demand in the jewelry sector.

Moreover, as we regularly argue, this trend is not going away anytime soon. As long as the US fiscal situation remains dismal, foreign countries will continue diversifying out of the dollar.

Silver, on the other hand, does not have such a strong long-term catalyst.

Central banks aren’t buying it; the market is far too small, and silver far too cheap. Foreign countries can much more easily buy $100 billion worth of gold. They just can’t do that with silver.

We’ve predicted in the past that silver would likely follow gold’s run-up— NOT because it shares the same monetary fundamentals, but because investor psychology.

Obviously there’s no telling how far this speculation can go; investors could potentially push silver prices much, much higher from here.

But without that same long-term institutional demand from central banks, silver's trajectory is much harder to predict... and to justify.

It’s also noteworthy that more than half of silver demand comes from industrial applications such as solar panels, electric vehicles, 5G infrastructure, semiconductors, and medical technologies.

According to the Silver Institute, industrial demand for silver hit an all-time high of 680.5 million ounces in 2024, the fourth straight year of growth in that category.

Importantly, total silver demand has consistently outpaced supply. The global silver market ran a structural deficit in both 2023 and 2024, meaning more silver was consumed than produced.

This created an obvious catalyst for higher silver prices.

But it’s important to understand that industrial demand is not the same as central bank demand.

When central banks buy gold, they aren’t trying to time the market or flip it for a profit. They’re diversifying reserves. It’s a long-term, strategic shift—motivated by growing mistrust in the US dollar.

In short, central banks buy gold irrespective of price.

But silver doesn’t have that kind of anchor. Industrial demand is highly cyclical. It depends on global manufacturing activity, tech infrastructure, energy-sector spending, and overall economic health.

In an economic slowdown, much of that industrial demand could dry up quickly.

If the AI bubble bursts and data centers downsize, silver demand slows. If the “green energy” push implodes, and people decide they don’t want—or can’t afford—electric vehicles and solar panels, silver demand drops.

Jewelry demand, though smaller than industrial, faces the same problem. It’s sensitive to consumer spending.

To be clear, I’m not suggesting that the silver price is going to fall. I’m saying that it’s important to understand the differences.

With gold, foreign central banks are a clear and obvious long-term driver of demand. Silver demand, on the other hand, is being driven by speculation and highly volatile (and unpredictable) global economic factors.

And I think it’s important to be clear-eyed about the differences.

 To your freedom,     James Hickman   Co-Founder, Schiff Sovereign LLC

https://www.schiffsovereign.com/trends/some-thoughts-on-silvers-all-time-high-153993/?inf_contact_key=c283cc76def72d7f9afe99847a20b2322294a318289bad97137125bd69e8bd38 

The 13 Travel Scams Every American Tourist Falls For

The 13 Travel Scams Every American Tourist Falls For (Don’t Be Next)

Vasilija Mrakovic   Tue, December 2, 2025   Guessing Headlights

Every year, millions of Americans venture abroad with optimism, curiosity, and the belief that most people they meet will be helpful or at least harmless. And while that’s often true, seasoned travelers know that the world also has its fair share of tricksters who see tourists as easy paydays.

These scammers aren’t relying on brute force or intimidation, they specialize in subtlety, charm, and psychological pressure. Most scams don’t feel like scams when they start. Instead, they unfold as small acts of kindness, unexpected conveniences, or friendly gestures that slowly shift into uncomfortable, costly situations. By the time most travelers realize what’s happened, the money is gone, the scammer has vanished, and the embarrassment sets in.

Travel scams persist because they exploit universal human instincts: the desire to be polite, the fear of causing a scene, the assumption that strangers are telling the truth, and the belief that we understand a situation better than we actually do. Americans in particular are vulnerable because many come from service-oriented environments where helpers, attendants, and guides are common and expected.

When a stranger steps in saying, “Let me help” or “I know a shortcut,” it feels natural to accept, but in many destinations, this is the exact moment the trap is set. Recognizing these tactics in advance can help you navigate unfamiliar streets with confidence, avoid unnecessary stress, and keep your trip focused on what truly matters, experiencing the world, not funding its scammers.

The “Overly Helpful” Stranger

In major tourist hubs, an overly friendly local may approach you the moment you look confused, offering to help you buy metro tickets, decipher a map, or find a hotel. They present themselves as a good Samaritan who simply loves helping visitors.

Their real goal is much less noble: they want money, or access to your belongings, or a chance to guide you somewhere that benefits them financially. These scammers know that most Americans don’t want to seem rude by refusing help, especially when language barriers are involved, so they step in with confidence and urgency.

As soon as they start “helping,” they position themselves close to your wallet or phone, often leaning over you or taking control of your screen. Sometimes they push you through the process so quickly that you barely have time to think. And if they don’t pickpocket you directly, they may claim a tip afterward, insisting you owe them for their “service.” They may even guilt-trip you in public, making the situation uncomfortable enough that paying just feels easier.

The safest approach is simple: decline unsolicited help politely but firmly. If you truly need assistance, seek out uniformed staff, official kiosks, or other travelers rather than anyone approaching you first. Real helpers don’t chase down tourists, scammers do.

The Fake Taxi

Fake taxis thrive in chaotic transit zones: airports, train stations, ferry terminals, and crowded tourist attractions. Drivers approach you before you reach the official taxi queue, offering “cheap,” “fast,” or “private” rides. They may look legitimate, but once you’re inside, everything changes. There’s no meter, no receipt, and suddenly the price is triple the normal fare. Some drivers even demand payment upfront or refuse to let you exit without paying an inflated fee.

These operators target Americans because many assume ride prices abroad are similar to U.S. costs, so when a driver quotes $40 for a 10-minute ride, travelers don’t immediately question it. When people are jet-lagged or disoriented, they’re especially vulnerable to these pitches. And because the scammer approaches you assertively and confidently, it feels awkward to refuse, making the con even more effective.

The only safe rule is to avoid anyone who initiates contact. Use official taxis, rideshare apps, or taxi stands clearly marked by the city. A legitimate taxi never has to chase customers down.

The Friendship Bracelet Trap

This scam is common in Europe’s busiest plazas. A vendor approaches with a smile, speaking quickly and warmly, and before you can react, they’re tying a colorful bracelet around your wrist. They insist it’s free, a symbol of friendship, peace, or luck. But as soon as it’s tied securely, everything changes. They demand money, sometimes loudly or aggressively, and refuse to let you walk away.

Americans fall for this trick because it feels rude to pull away when someone reaches for your hand, especially when the person seems harmless or charming. The scam works because it involves physical contact; once the bracelet is tied, removing it is nearly impossible without scissors, making most tourists feel obligated to pay just to avoid confrontation. Some scammers even work in groups, surrounding the target to pressure them further.

To avoid this trap, keep your hands close to your body when approached by street vendors and walk with purpose. Never allow anyone to tie, place, or hand you anything you didn’t request, if it’s “free,” it’s not.

“Let Me Take Your Photo!”

TO READ MORE:  https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/articles/13-travel-scams-every-american-183048923.html

Why America Is A Nation Of Miserable Millionaires Who Don't 'Feel Rich'

Why America Is A Nation Of Miserable Millionaires Who Don't 'Feel Rich'

Vawn Himmelsbach   Tue, December 2, 2025   Moneywise

So, you’ve hit that money milestone you were aiming for. The one where you thought you’d finally feel wealthy. But you don’t — and in fact you’re as stressed and depressed as ever. Why?

There’s no one number you can hit that upgrades you from middle-class to wealthy. Being rich is “a subjective experience,” says Charles Chaffin, co-founder of the Financial Psychology Institute (1).

And according to recent research, some people never get much happier when they reach financial security — no matter how much money they make.

Wealth And Well-Being Depend On Mindset

No matter how much money we have, some of us may never feel wealthy. For instance, only a third of millionaires (32%) consider themselves wealthy, according to a survey by Northwestern Mutual (2).

One reason is that people who become millionaires are often “money vigilant,” according to Chaffin. This means they’re constantly keeping track of how much money is moving in and out of their accounts — and they never feel truly secure with the amount they have (1).

Money vigilance is one of four money scripts people fall into, according to a framework created by psychologist Brad Klontz. He describes these scripts as unconscious sets of beliefs about money that shape our financial behavior. They’re typically formed in childhood and can be passed down from generation to generation. While the outcomes from adopting the script of money vigilance can be good — like being a disciplined saver — they can also prevent you from enjoying your wealth (3).

TO READ MORE:  https://finance.yahoo.com/news/even-millionaires-dont-feel-wealthy-100702714.html

Half of Americans Are Worried About This Threat to Their Paychecks

Half of Americans Are Worried About This Threat to Their Paychecks: 4 Things You Can Do

Marc Guberti   Mon, December 1, 2025   GOBankingRates

One of the biggest fears Americans have is getting laid off. This “layoff anxiety” trend affects one-third of Americans, according to Clarify Capital. Anxiety is higher among remote workers, with 40% of them worrying about losing their jobs compared to 20% of in-office workers.

It has gotten to the point where 69% of Americans would be happy to stay in the same job and avoid career growth if it led to more job security. The PNC 2025 Financial Wellness in the Workplace Report found that 67% of Americans live paycheck to paycheck, so there isn’t much financial wiggle room in the event of a layoff.

Although many people dread getting laid off, it’s a scenario that you should prepare for in case it happens. These are some of the ways you can prepare for that scenario, minimize its impact on your finances and rebound quickly.

Create an Emergency Savings Account

Developing good financial discipline is critical for reducing your career stress and feeling more confident about challenges that come your way. Having more money in the bank can give you peace of mind and more time to get back on your feet if you get laid off.

Putting money into an emergency savings account each month is a great starting point. Ideally, this fund should cover six to 12 months of your living expenses. Accelerating your emergency savings account’s growth will require cutting your expenses.

While you don’t want to get rid of necessary expenses, you may find opportunities to trim costs if you have never created a budget. Unused subscriptions and impulsive purchases are good places to start if you want to reduce costs without downgrading your lifestyle.

Develop New Skills

The more skills you develop, the more desirable you are in the marketplace. Working on high-income skills like mastering AI tools each weekend can introduce you to more job opportunities. Then, as you apply for jobs, you will feel more in control, since you won’t feel like all of your income depends on one employer.

TO READ MORE:  https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/articles/half-americans-worried-threat-paychecks-155505788.html