Wealth and Wisdom: Week of April 7, 2025
- Mike Brown
- Apr 7
- 4 min read
While tariffs have dominated the headlines of late, several other issues have now entered the debate – further confusing taxpayers, investors, and voters in the process.
Even conservative economists have argued that tariffs and trade wars are counterproductive and might lead to higher prices, the direct opposite of the president’s campaign promise to bring inflation down.
As pointed out in a Wall Street Journal editorial last week, Republicans in Congress now seem to be considering raising both corporate and individual income tax rates, which also runs counter to their pro-growth agenda.
And even Social Security – long considered the untouchable third rail of American politics – appears to be on the cutting table, first in the form of deep staffing cuts and service reductions, and perhaps eventually by lowering benefits to future retirees.
If it feels like you’re living in a much different place than you thought you were just a few short months ago, apparently you are in growing company.
Tariffs, inflation, and government policies that change daily – all add up to nervous consumers afraid to spend their money. (Reading time: 2 minutes)
There’s no strong evidence that a recession is coming – but history provides investors interesting clues about what could await them on the other side. (Reading time: 3 minutes)
We don’t know when they’re coming. We don’t know how long or deep they’ll be. But we do know this: they have all been temporary. (Reading time: 7 minutes)
Prices are still rising – but stock dividends are rising even faster. (Reading time: 2 minutes)
Research continues to show companies that initiate dividends or consistently increase them have outperformed those who don’t – and with less risk. (Reading time: 3 minutes)
Living on less than you earn could fatten your bank account – but at some point, you should get your money to do some of the work. (Reading time: 2 minutes)
President Trump has ordered the federal government to stop issuing paper checks later this year – or accepting them. (Reading time: 3 minutes)
Avoid these six expensive pitfalls to make the road to retirement a little smoother. (Reading time: 4 minutes)
Why not? Just do some planning first to make sure it’s what you want. (Reading time: 4 minutes)
Non-cash donations can benefit your favorite causes – and may come with significant tax benefits for you as well. (Reading time: 3 minutes)
Words to the Wise
“Ultimately, the economy and profits determine what the stock market does, and there's nothing in the history of the past half-century or so to suggest the economy or profits would be much different no matter which party is screwing up the government.”
– Alan Abelson
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