The Currency - Money

‘Cool’ produce: Healthier habits propel fruit and vegetable sales

Shoppers are spending more time in the produce section these days as designer branding, social media, and popular weight-loss medications reshape consumer tastes.

money

Taking Stock: March jobs report positive as tariffs drive volatility

With markets reacting to new tariff announcements, the March jobs report stands out.

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40% of Americans say retiring on time is a main motivation for investing

The majority of Americans (86%) are investing with defined money goals in mind, including retiring on time (40%) and becoming financially independent (36%), though nearly a quarter admit to not having started investing until after turning 40 (23%), according to new Empower research.

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As apparel prices heat up, spending cools 22%

Americans’ monthly spending on clothing and footwear decreased 22% in Q1 2025, according to Empower Personal Dashboard data.

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👑 Personal best

The Boston Marathon isn’t just about hitting a personal best — it’s an economic powerhouse. Here's this week's money news.

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The average 403(b) balance grew 15% in the past 2 years

403(b) plan participants made strong wealth gains in recent years. See how the average 403(b) balance varies by age here.

money

Adding Value: Financial literacy month is here

It’s hard to understate the value of financial literacy as Americans recognize its importance this April. The Currency^TM will focus on some trends readers need to know.

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Pets, gold, and Bitcoin: Why ETFs are having their moment

From sector-focused strategies to volatility-hedging tools to niche themes such as pet care and esports, today’s ETFs are expanding far beyond their original designs.

money

The tariff pinch: Estimating the impact on earnings

Marta Norton walks through an analysis of tariffs and what could be coming for financial markets and consumers in Q2 2025.

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Capital markets perspective: The final countdown

With tariffs looming, markets, businesses, and consumers are waiting with anticipation for the Fed’s upcoming economic outlook.

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Q2 markets outlook: Tariffs, inflation and AI

The arrival of tariffs brings more complexity to U.S. fiscal policy and sets up what markets could look like in Q2 2025, according to Empower chief investment strategist Marta Norton.

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Best of both worlds: Why some workers want to ease into retirement

More Americans are keeping their careers well into their 60s as a way to stay productive and socially engaged. Phased retirement programs are helping them do it.