Scientists treated an ‘untreatable’ eye condition, the Global Ocean Treaty entered force, and the US murder rate plummeted, plus more good news This week’s good news roundup
Read the entire article: What went right this week: treating the ‘untreatable’, plus more – Positive News
What went right this week: treating the ‘untreatable’, plus more – Positive News Read Post »
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Making the most of retirement savings requires that investors keep track of annual changes put forward by the IRS. Annual contribution limits for various types of retirement accounts tend to increase each year, allowing savers to keep up with cost-of-living increases due to inflation.
For 2026, retirement savers at a variety of different income levels have new regulations to keep track of, both to ensure that they are getting the most from their retirement accounts and to avoid being penalized for issues like overpayment.
Read the entire article: The Retirement Rule Changes for 2026 That Could Help You Save Faster
The Retirement Rule Changes for 2026 That Could Help You Save Faster Read Post »
So there’s some stuff going around about Social Security and I thought I would take a minute to address it here. I’ve previously addressed the social security ‘crisis’ in a couple of newsletters earlier this year, the last one entitled, “Too Little, Too Late? Or Not? (Part Two)”
The crux of the article was in a static timeline (which never is static), we are going to have to reduce social security benefits in around 5 to 10 years. At the time, I felt that the efforts of DOGE might offer a glimmer of hope… and it still may. While the media’s attention has turned to the latest shiny object (Squirrel!!), the efforts of DOGE continue in the background. So, there’s still some hope there.
As we step into 2026, the whispers of doom surrounding Social Security echo louder than ever—fueled by headlines that paint a picture of impending collapse. But let’s take a step back and put on our ‘critical thinking’ caps.
Social Security, now in its 91st year, has weathered depressions, wars, and economic upheavals without missing a single payment. It’s not a fragile relic; it’s a sturdy framework built on payroll contributions, designed to adapt. The issue is not that social security is going bankrupt, the issue is that social security will have to navigate a shortfall in the future… which is infinitely more manageable than the hysteria suggests.
The program’s trust fund, amassed from decades of surplus taxes, is projected to deplete around 2034 for the combined Old-Age and Survivors Insurance (OASI… what we mean when we say “social security”) and Disability Insurance (DI) funds, or 2033 for OASI alone. At that juncture, incoming payroll taxes would still cover about 80% of promised benefits—not zero, as some fearmongers imply. This funding gap equates to roughly 3.65% of taxable payroll over the next 75 years, a figure that’s climbed slightly due to recent legislative tweaks like the One Big Beautiful Bill Act.
However, history reassures us here: Back in 1983, under Reagan, Congress enacted bipartisan reforms, including gradual hikes in the full retirement age from 65 to 67, taxing some benefits, and adjusting contributions. These moves stabilized the system for generations. Today, similar pragmatic steps could bridge the divide. Boosting the payroll tax from 12.4% to 13.4% over a decade might close 23% of the gap. Eliminating the $184,500 earnings cap (up from $176,100 last year) could cover another 21%. Or, switching to a more accurate inflation measure like the Chained CPI for cost-of-living adjustments (COLAs) might shave off 16% of the shortfall. These aren’t radical overhauls; they’re tweaks to keep the black swans at bay.
The 2026 COLA clocks in at 2.8%, boosting average benefits to over $2,000 monthly for retirees—a first. Full retirement age edges up for those born in 1960 or later, and new tax breaks mean 88% of seniors won’t owe on benefits. The 2025 Trustees Report notes stability post-2035, with deficits peaking then easing. Bipartisan proposals, like those from the Bipartisan Policy Center, blend tax hikes and benefit trims for full solvency.
If you’ve ever wondered why Social Security endures while markets fluctuate, it’s because it’s woven into our economic fabric—essential for 71 million Americans. Congress has acted before; the political will exists amid growing awareness.
In the meantime, diversify your retirement strategy: lean on 401(k)s, IRAs, and personal savings. But rest easy—Social Security isn’t vanishing. It’s evolving, just as it always has, proving that rational analysis overrides apocalyptic fears.
Readers are encouraged to reply to this newsletter directly with any questions or comments, as I receive and read all responses. You can also reach out by calling or texting our office at 480-575-7688.
If you are not a client and have in-depth questions or want to explore how we might assist you, book a Discovery Call.
The information on our website and this blog is for information purposes only. It is believed to be reliable, but JR Snell Capital Management does not warrant its completeness or accuracy. The information on our website and in this newsletter or blog is not intended as an offer or solicitation for the purchase of stock or any financial instrument.
January 16, 2026: Special Edition: A Quick Word on Social Security Read Post »
If you are among the more than 70 million Americans who will receive Social Security benefits in 2026, there are several changes to the program that will impact your payments. Among the key adjustments are increases in monthly payments as well as Medicare Part B premiums, and higher income limits for those working while receiving benefits.
The Social Security Administration send out payments on a staggered schedule. Those who’s birthdays fall between the first and 10th of any month will be paid on Jan. 14. Payments to those born between the 11th and 20th will be distributed on Jan. 21, and those
Read the entire article: Changes to Social Security benefits in 2026: What to know – NBC4 Washington
Changes to Social Security benefits in 2026: What to know – NBC4 Washington Read Post »
Jan. 14 (UPI) — A recovery crew was summoned to an Irish road when a truck carrying up to 15,000 crabs crashed into a ditch and set the crustaceans free.
The McLaughlin Transport truck was carrying a load of crabs caught in Inishowen to restaurants and stores in Portugal when it wound up in the ditch at the side of the R238 road in Carrickmaquigley, Redcastle, County Donegal.
Read the entire article: Watch: Crashed truck releases 15,000 live crabs next to road – UPI.com
Watch: Crashed truck releases 15,000 live crabs next to road – UPI.com Read Post »
Despite a spot of volatility here and there, most investors will be smiling when they see their year-end investment statements for 2025. International stocks soared for much of the year, and non-US markets delivered strong gains, too. Bonds also gained ground for the year to date, thanks to the Federal Reserve’s interest rate cuts late in the year.
Helping you look forward and plan for a productive year ahead is the goal of my annual financial calendar and to-do list, which plots out a number of jobs you can undertake to improve your financial life on a month-by-month basis.
Read the entire article: Your Financial To-Do List for 2026 | Morningstar
Your Financial To-Do List for 2026 | Morningstar Read Post »
Travelers are now locking in their summer 2026 trips early, months before the typical booking rush usually begins. Flight seats vanish, and popular destinations fill fast, turning hesitation into a risky move almost overnight.
With peak-season demand piling up and fewer options available, waiting often comes with a higher price tag and can send a trip back onto next year’s bucket list.
Read the entire article: January 2026 bookings spike for summer travel | National News | mydailyrecord.com
January 2026 bookings spike for summer travel | National News | mydailyrecord.com Read Post »
The stock market demonstrated steady progress this week, with major indices posting solid gains from Monday’s open through Friday morning at 11 a.m. Eastern Time. The S&P 500 rose about 1%, reflecting resilience amid mixed economic data and stable job reports. The Dow Jones Industrial Average advanced roughly 2.1%, supported by strength in non-tech sectors, while the Nasdaq Composite climbed around 1.1%. These movements highlight ongoing investor confidence, even as rate expectations remain measured, pointing to potential opportunities ahead.
A key discussion in financial planning circles centers on updates to tax laws for 2026, including higher state and local tax (SALT) deduction caps, a new deduction for seniors, and increased retirement plan contribution limits. These changes, driven by recent legislation, are prompting advisors and individuals to reassess strategies for deductions, Roth conversions, and savings vehicles to optimize tax efficiency in retirement.
Readers are encouraged to reply to this newsletter directly with any questions or comments, as I receive and read all responses. You can also reach out by calling or texting our office at 480-575-7688.
If you are not a client and have in-depth questions or want to explore how we might assist you, book a Discovery Call.
The information on our website and this blog is for information purposes only. It is believed to be reliable, but JR Snell Capital Management does not warrant its completeness or accuracy. The information on our website and in this newsletter or blog is not intended as an offer or solicitation for the purchase of stock or any financial instrument.
January 9, 2026: Market News & Financial Planning Tips Read Post »
Editor’s Note: The threat of asset seizure alone will have knock-on effects, even if the law does not pass. If it does pass, making it retroactive is a dirty trick designed to tax only those who you have caught unawares. ~jrs
California’s wealthiest residents are threatening to leave the state and take their businesses with them in light of a proposed ballot initiative to get billionaires to cough up more tax, according to news reports.
A ballot initiative proposed by the Service Employees International Union-United Healthcare Workers West would impose a one-time 5% tax levy on those with fortunes of more than $1 billion who lived in the state as of Jan. 1, The Wall Street Journal wrote.
Read the entire article: Financial Advisor IQ – California Billionaire Tax Proposal Has Ultrawealthy Move Offices, Threaten Leaving
How often have you vowed to overhaul your eating habits, only to find yourself reverting to old ways a few days or weeks later?
It’s a common story, and too-high expectations are usually to blame. “People set very ambitious goals and want to change everything, but that’s not realistic,” says UNC Health dietitian Shelly Wegman. “If you try to make a big, immediate switch, it’s overwhelming and then you just quit. It takes time.”
A healthy, well-balanced diet has lots of benefits, from improving…
Read the entire article: Take these 6 small steps to a healthy diet | UNC-Chapel Hill
Take these 6 small steps to a healthy diet | UNC-Chapel Hill Read Post »
The 2024 Bugatti Chiron Super Sport “Éléphant Blanc” will take centre stage as Bonhams|Cars returns to the beautiful lawns of the Westin Kierland Resort in Arizona for its annual Scottsdale Auction on January 23, kickstarting an exciting slate of 2026 sales.
Estimated at $4,500,000 – 5,000,000, this one-of-one Sur Mesure commission pays homage to Bugatti’s legendary Type 41 Royale and its iconic “Éléphant Blanc” motif. Delivered new to Canada, it’s finished in
Read the entire article: Bonhams|Cars Opens 2026 with the One-of-One Bugatti Chiron Super Sport “Éléphant Blanc” at Scottsdale | WebWire
America’s national parks are treasures worth exploring, and the best part? You don’t always have to open your wallet. With 63 official national parks and more than 400 additional sites managed by the National Park Service, there’s no shortage of stunning landscapes to discover.
Some parks charge entry fees—typically $20–$35 per person or per vehicle—but there are plenty of ways to enjoy the beauty for free. (Just be prepared: getting there can sometimes cost more than the entrance fee. Alaska, however, is a win for free-entry lovers.)
For travelers with flexible schedules, 2026 brings an added bonus: 10 federal “fee-free” days when you can enter national parks at no cost.
Read the entire article: 20 Gorgeous U.S. National Parks That Are Free Every Single Day in 2026
20 Gorgeous U.S. National Parks That Are Free Every Single Day in 2026 Read Post »
Not having kids might mean fewer financial obligations, but it doesn’t automatically make retirement planning easier. In fact, flying solo as you age comes with its own set of complexities, from health care costs to estate decisions.
Here’s what child-free adults should know when planning for life after work.
Read the entire article: Retirement Planning Without Kids Demands Attention to Long-Term Care and Estate Strategies
Numerous special events, festivals and road trips are planned throughout 2026 in order to celebrate the 100th birthday of Route 66, an iconic highway spanning eight states from Illinois to California.
Read the entire article: America Will Celebrate The Centennial Of Iconic Route 66 In 2026
America Will Celebrate The Centennial Of Iconic Route 66 In 2026 Read Post »
The stock market experienced a mix of movements this shortened holiday week, with trading volumes lighter due to New Year’s Day closure. Major indices dipped modestly on Wednesday, December 31, as year-end profit-taking prevailed, with the S&P 500 down 0.7%, Nasdaq Composite off 0.8%, and Dow Jones Industrial Average declining 0.6%. However, the new year opened on a firmer note Friday morning, with tech and semiconductor stocks leading a rebound by 11 a.m. ET—the S&P 500 up 0.3%, Nasdaq gaining 0.6%, and Dow edging higher 0.1%. Overall, the tone remains constructive, supported by ongoing AI momentum and broader economic resilience, setting a steady path forward.1
As 2026 begins, discussions in financial news and on social media are centering on preparing for upcoming tax changes. With parts of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act set to expire at year-end, higher brackets and reduced exemptions loom, prompting talks on strategies like accelerated Roth conversions and enhanced charitable giving. Additionally, new rules from recent legislation, such as increased gift tax exclusions to $15 million per individual, are sparking interest in estate planning updates.
Around the interwebs, folks are highlighting the need for proactive budgeting amid rising costs, viewing financial planning as essential for stability.
We welcome your questions or comments—reply directly to this email, or call or text our office at 480-575-7688.
If you are not a client and have in-depth questions or want to explore how we might assist you, book a Discovery Call.
The information on our website and this blog is for information purposes only. It is believed to be reliable, but JR Snell Capital Management does not warrant its completeness or accuracy. The information on our website and in this newsletter or blog is not intended as an offer or solicitation for the purchase of stock or any financial instrument.
January 2, 2026: Market News & Financial Planning Tips Read Post »
