Wealth and Wisdom: Week of June 22, 2026
- 4 hours ago
- 4 min read
The deal to end the war in Iran has given some hope to cash-strapped consumers – especially those filling their gas tanks for the summer driving season. Crude oil prices peaked at $114 a barrel this spring and have since fallen below $80.
The question now is: How soon can we expect lower gasoline prices? It could take months before transports get back to normal levels and into refineries. And the U.S. Strategic Oil Reserve – which can act as a buffer for volatile fuel prices – now sits at its lowest level since the early 1980s.
These are today’s headlines, of course, and temporary events don’t have to derail your long-term financial dreams and goals – unless you choose to let them. Keep your focus on the principles that create wealth over the long run and preserve it in retirement. And if you’re serious about improving yourself in this area, start by saving the article in our first item below:
When readers ask where we find ideas for Wealth and Wisdom each week, I generally explain that I read practically all day long. And occasionally – like this week – I stumble into goldmines of good information like this. (Reading time: 8 minutes)
Nearly all recipients already get their benefits electronically – and the rest will have to make the transition soon. (Reading time: 2 minutes)
As inflation cramps their spending, Missouri residents are turning to public resources like libraries for ideas to make ends meet. (Reading time: 3 minutes)
The best defense in times of financial uncertainty has always been spending less than you earn. (Reading time: 4 minutes)
With valuations – and risk – increasing in the market’s hottest sectors, long-term investors are returning to a time-honored investment strategy. (Reading time: 4 minutes)
As our country approaches its 250th anniversary, take a moment to appreciate how it continues to create and compound wealth and opportunity. (Reading time: 3 minutes)
Industries that produce services now account for nearly three-quarters of U.S. economic output each year. (Reading time: 3 minutes)
Parents and grandparents are now using these tax-advantaged accounts to pay for education as early as kindergarten. (Reading time: 2 minutes)
Being debt-free in retirement is a worthy goal – but what if it keeps you from saving enough money to enjoy it? (Reading time: 3 minutes)
The extra income can be nice – as well as staying productive. Just understand how working in retirement can impact your taxes, Social Security, and Medicare. (Reading time: 7 minutes)
Words to the Wise
“Despite our citizens' penchant - almost enthusiasm - for self-criticism and self-doubt, I have yet to see a time when it made sense to make a long-term bet against America.”
– Warren Buffett
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