So... the tariffs are paused. Except for the whole trade war with China, which could still squeeze supply chains, businesses, and consumers everywhere.
But, there’s a B Plot to keep a close eye on: The bond market selloff. Investors typically respond to market chaos by scooping up US Treasury bonds –– a liquid, price-stable asset with a fixed interest rate guaranteed by the US government.
This time, people are selling their US Treasuries, signaling that broader confidence in the US may be wobbling for the first time since WWII. If this trend continues, it’ll be a problem in lots of ways, including possibly making borrowing money for things like a house or a car much more expensive.
No one can predict what will happen next — so instead, we’ve rounded up three savvy money moves for you to consider right now.
If your emergency fund is not-so-emergency-ready…
And you can’t add to it right now, look into opening a 0% APR credit card just for worst-case-scenario expenses. Plus, some other low-lift tips to keep in your back pocket in case you need a financial Plan B.
If you’re considering “buying the dip”…
These stocks are the most –– and least –– vulnerable in a trade war.
If you’re tempted to start shuffling your investments…
Here are the ETFs built to handle market drama.
If you're thinking you'd like more cash on hand...
Here are your options for places to park it with the highest interest rates right now.
Car prices, amirite? Keep yours running with these eight maintenance tasks you really shouldn't skip.
If you feel like you just can't save money right now, it may not be you, it may be your zip code. Check to see if your state is one of the hardest ones to save.
Dreaming up your Nancy Meyers-inspired kitchen? Make sure that addition — and these six other common renovations — won’t send your property taxes through the roof.
How does your 401(k) stack up against your peers?
Attn Zillow Gone Wild fans: Thanks to new rules for real estate agents, every house hunter’s best friend is about to lose a lot of listings. (Psst: for all you voyeurs out there, here's how you can see just how much people are paying in this market.)
Eyeing a career change? Here are 20 high-paying jobs that — bonus — are also expected to be in high-demand over the next decade.
Everyone’s 401(k) is riding the same rollercoaster these days. After all your work and careful planning, it’s hard to keep your cool while watching your wealth shrink (even if it ends up being re-inflating).
In case you, like us, could use a pep talk, Heather Boneparth — Skimm Money columnist and writer of The Joint Account newsletter — is helping us put this moment into perspective: “Breathe. Volatility is a feature (not a bug!) of long-term investing. Stay the course, and don’t let trade war headlines make you panic sell.”
Read more:
Trump said part of his decision to pause tariffs for 90 days is because people were getting “yippy.” This is:
Weak Ties, Strong Job Move
Friends-of-friends. Your old lab partner’s cousin. Your college roommate’s sister that you once did karaoke with at a grad party. Research shows that these people — aka “weak ties” –– can be the missing link between never hearing back and getting a job offer.
For more tips on how to make a sizable career move (yes, even in this economy) check out our Don’t Wait to Get the Big Job advice and resources here.
Trending products and brands our shopping team has been loving recently.
Drew Barrymore was not exaggerating when she named her Walmart home line "Beautiful." This food processor comes in colors like lilac and rose, and has the prettiest gold accents. Plus, it's under $30.
Since moving last year, our commerce editor has been thinking a lot about home organizing. These are the products that've kept her new place tidy (and herself sane).
J.Crew is taking 40% off sitewide. The sale ends today, so get this objectively perfect cashmere sweater while you still can.
Psst…love our recs? Follow @skimmshopping on Instagram for more products, gifts, and services that are actually worth the hype (and the price tag).
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