Independent thinking for complex markets and current events
Americans are increasingly raiding their retirement savings just to stay afloat (housing + medical costs). Even with strong stock market gains (which boosted average 401k balances to record highs), many people are still struggling. Passive investing (automatic 401k contributions going into index funds like VOO/SPY) has been one of the biggest drivers of the bull …
RECORD 401(k) WITHDRAWALS SIGNAL FINANCIAL STRAIN A record share of Americans are tapping retirement savings as financial pressure rises. In 2025, 6% of workers with plans run by Vanguard Group made hardship withdrawals—up from 4.8% in 2024 and about 2% pre-pandemic. The main… — First Squawk (@FirstSquawk) March 4, 2026 COLUMBUS, Wis., March 04, 2026 …
When wildlife researchers and members of the Heiltsuk First Nation set up video cameras to investigate why crab traps were being damaged and raided, they made a remarkable discovery that astounded even the most experienced researchers. The cameras captured a sea wolf emerging from the water with a buoy hanging from its mouth. Aaron McArthur …
Ahahahaha 🤣🤣 He's starting to realise his policies were anti-industry. I wonder if he'll figure it out about tariffs too. pic.twitter.com/TOXybEEUmV — denome (@denomeme) September 15, 2025
CNN – Israel arrested a hospital director in a raid that closed the last major functioning health facility in northern Gaza, with its forces also accused of ordering patients to strip in the streets. Kamal Adwan Hospital is “now empty” after the remaining patients – some of them critically ill – along with caregivers and health workers …
A journalistic report on how New York City’s restaurants are in danger. Robbers have been setting themselves on unsuspecting dinners, stealing wallets and watches worth tens of thousands of dollars.
Just when you think NYC’s thieves have stooped to their lowest, they prove us all wrong as gas stations and convenience stores are now the latest target in the city’s shoplifting surge… There have been reports of thieves targeting gas stations in New York City, likely driven by rising gas prices. These thefts involve various methods, …
As economic uncertainties deepen, the latest findings from the Federal Reserve Bank of New York’s Credit Access Survey paint a concerning picture for consumers. The survey reveals a notable decline in credit demand, with weakening application rates and rising rejection rates, notably in auto loans. Looking forward, households express a decreased likelihood of applying for …
A California supermarket desperate to slow the constant shoplifting that has plagued parts of the state has installed giant metal barriers at exits to stop the thefts. A Safeway in Vallejo recently added metal emergency exit gates in front of one of the entrances that warn an ‘alarm will sound’ if thieves try to leave …