Wealth and Wisdom: Week of February 2, 2026
- Mike Brown
- 2 days ago
- 4 min read
What’s sending gold prices through the roof? What’s behind the uptick in market volatility we saw in January? Both are connected to how the rest of the world sees us these days, which is clearly reflected in the value of the U.S. dollar. The dollar has fallen more than 12% in value vs. global currencies in the past year – a four-year low.
President Trump said last week he was not concerned about a weakening dollar, arguing that it helps U.S. manufacturers and exporters by making our goods cheaper overseas. A weak dollar might also be behind soaring gold prices – where traders and speculators often turn in times of economic crisis.
The Federal Reserve helped stem the tide somewhat when it decided last week against another cut in interest rates – at least for now. There’s a strong connection between interest rates and currency valuation.
So, how do all these things impact your daily life? Don’t look for products imported from overseas to get cheaper anytime soon. International travel will also be more expensive. And U.S. investments could look less attractive compared with foreign markets.
First it was the 50-year mortgage. Now politicians want you to raid your retirement savings to buy a home. I’m not sure which makes less sense. (Reading time: 4 minutes)
No wonder lawmakers are scrambling to make life more “affordable” these days. Here’s how much groceries cost compared with 10 years ago. (Reading time: 2 minutes)
A colorful comparison of different investment options – how each fared in 2025 and over the last decade. (Reading time: 3 minutes)
No stock tips here – just 10 simple concepts that have been rewarding diligent savers for more than a century. (Reading time: 8 minutes)
Smart companies listen to their shareholders – and proxy votes are your chance to share your opinions with those you invest in. (Reading time: 3 minutes)
From catch-up contributions at age 50 to RMDs at 73, here are some important ages to be aware of when planning and living in retirement. (Reading time: 9 minutes)
Depending on your income, a new tax break aimed at Americans age 65+ could put hundreds of dollars back in your pocket this year. (Reading time: 3 minutes)
After age 50, you have the opportunity to save thousands more for retirement in tax-advantaged accounts. Here’s what recently changed. (Reading time: 7 minutes)
Qualified charitable distributions allow you to donate money to charities without paying taxes – even if you don’t itemize. (Reading time: 6 minutes)
Long-term care insurance is expensive and often restrictive – but combining it with life insurance can make it more affordable. (Reading time: 8 minutes)
Words to the Wise
“It was self-serving politicians who convinced recent generations of Americans that we could all stand in a circle with our hands in each other's pockets and somehow get rich.”
– Paul Harvey
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