By Anna Helhoski, NerdWallet The battle to get here was certainly an uphill one, but people are generally feeling better about the economy and their finances than they once did. On top of that, the economy has been easing into an ideal, Goldilocks-like position — not running too hot or cooling too quickly. Throughout 2024, consumer sentiment data showed people were fairly positive about the economy and their own finances, even if there’s remaining frustration over elevated prices compared to four years ago. Looking ahead, households are feeling more optimistic about their personal finances in the next year, as the share of those expecting to be in a better financial situation a year from now hit its highest level since February 2020. Combine positive personal vibes with a strong economic picture and it looks like 2024 wasn’t so bad for consumers, after all. But that doesn’t mean there weren’t bumps in the road or potential roadblocks ahead. To cap off the year, NerdWallet writers reflect on the top trends in personal finance and the economy this year — and what they think might be ahead in 2025. The economy steadily grew Elizabeth Renter, NerdWallet’s economist What happened: In 2024, U.S. consumers have proven resilient following a period of high inflation and ongoing high interest rates. Wage growth has been strong, owing in part to rising productivity. This has driven robust spending throughout the year, which has kept the economy growing at a healthy pace. The labor market has remained steady, though cooler than 2023, and price growth continues to moderate towards the Federal Reserve’s 2% inflation goal. What’s ahead: Barring significant changes to economic policy and significant shocks, the U.S. economy is expected to grow at a moderate rate in the coming year. Inflation will continue to moderate and the labor market will remain relatively healthy, all due in part to continued slow and deliberate rate cuts from the Fed. However, there are risks to this path. Higher tariffs and tighter immigration policies are likely, but the extent of these changes are yet unclear. The potential policy scenarios are many, and the economic outcomes complex. Increased tariffs are generally inflationary, and stricter immigration policies could impact the labor supply and economic growth. Consumers and small business owners with their eyes to the new year should focus on the things within their control. Savings accounts offered high rates and returns Margarette Burnette, consumer banking and savings writer What happened: High-yield savings accounts and certificates of deposit offered elevated rates in 2024, rewarding savers with strong returns. Following the Federal Reserve rate cuts in the second half of the year, high-yield accounts had modest rate decreases, but they continued to outperform traditional savings accounts and CDs. What’s ahead: We’re watching for further Federal Reserve rate cuts, which could lead to more decreases in savings rates. Credit card debt hit a high Sara Rathner, credit cards writer What happened: Credit card debt levels hit record highs, with consumers turning to credit cards to pay for necessities. While the economy is doing well, many individuals have struggled to make ends meet, as incomes haven’t kept up with certain costs. What’s ahead: We may see some policy and regulation changes with the incoming administration that could affect folks when it comes to credit cards, debt and consumer protections. Small business boomed Ryan Brady, small business writer What happened : New businesses continued to blossom in 2024 as business applications remained well above pre-pandemic levels. Confidence in the future state of the U.S. economy also spiked after the presidential election, but that optimism was tempered by concerns over rising costs and labor quality. What’s ahead: All eyes are on the incoming administration as small-business owners brace for turbulence resulting from potential tariffs, tax policy changes and dismantled government regulations. We’re also watching the possibility of interest rate cuts in 2025 and small-business owners’ growing reliance on new technologies, such as AI. Home buying remained challenging Holden Lewis, mortgages writer What happened: Home buyers struggled with elevated mortgage rates, rising house prices and a shortage of homes for sale. On top of that, a new rule required buyers to negotiate their agents’ commissions. What’s ahead: The Federal Reserve is expected to cut short-term interest rates, but mortgage rates might not necessarily fall by a similar amount. Buyers will probably have more properties to choose from, and the greater supply should keep prices from rising a lot. Interest rates on home equity loans and lines of credit should fall, making it less expensive to borrow to fix up homes — either to sell, or to make the home more comfortable and efficient. The markets were a boon for investors Sam Taube, investing writer What happened: The stock market had a great year. The S&P 500 is up more than 25% due to falling interest rates, fading recession fears, AI hype, and the possibility of lighter taxes and regulations under the new administration. Cryptocurrency also saw big gains in 2024; the price of Bitcoin crossed the $100,000 mark for the first time in December. What’s ahead: A lot depends on how fast the Fed reduces rates in 2025. Another key unknown is Trump’s second term. Regulatory rollbacks, such as those he has proposed for the banking industry, could juice stock prices — but they also could create systemic risks in the economy. His proposed tariffs could also hurt economic growth (and therefore stock prices). Finally, it remains to be seen whether trendy AI stocks, such as NVIDIA, can continue their momentum into next year. It’s the same story with crypto: How long will this bull market last? Premiums went up for home and auto insurance Caitlin Constantine, assistant assigning editor, insurance What happened: Many people saw their home and auto insurance premiums skyrocket in 2024. In some states, homeowners are finding it harder to even find policies in the first place. Meanwhile, life insurance rates have started to decrease post-pandemic. We also saw more insurers offering online-only policies that don’t require a medical exam. What’s ahead: Auto and home insurance costs will likely continue to rise, although auto premiums may not rise as dramatically as they have over the past few years. And if you’re in the market for life insurance, expect to see competitive life insurance quotes and more customizable policies. Lawsuits and uncertainty over student loan relief continued Eliza Haverstock, student loans writer What happened: Borrowers received historic student loan relief, but lawsuits derailed an income-driven repayment plan used by 8 million whose payments are indefinitely paused. Uncertainty will carry into 2025 as a result of the presidential administration change. What’s ahead: Trump has pledged to overhaul higher education and rein in student loan relief. The fate of the SAVE repayment plan, student loan forgiveness options, FAFSA processing and more remain in the balance. Traveling in style was all the rage Meghan Coyle, assistant assigning editor, travel What happened: People are willing to pay more for big and small luxuries while traveling, and airlines and hotels are taking note. Many airlines raised checked bag fees early in 2024, credit card issuers and airlines invested in renovated airport lounges, and major hotel companies continued to add luxury properties and brands to their loyalty programs. What’s ahead: Southwest will say goodbye to its open seating policy and introduce new extra-legroom seats, a major departure for the airline. Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines will unveil a unified loyalty program in 2025. Spirit Airlines may attempt to merge with another airline again after its 2024 bankruptcy filing and two failed mergers under President Biden’s administration. Travelers will find that they’ll have to pay a premium to enjoy most of the upgrades airlines and hotels are making. Dynamic pricing expanded its reach Laura McMullen, assistant assigning editor, personal finance What happened: This year, dynamic pricing expanded beyond concerts and travel to online retailers and even fast-food restaurants. This practice of prices changing based on real-time supply and demand received plenty of backlash from consumers and prompted the Federal Trade Commission to investigate how companies use consumers’ data to set prices. What’s ahead: Beyond an expansion of dynamic pricing — perhaps with added oversight — expect subscription models to become more prevalent and demand for sustainable products to grow. The car market came back for buyers Shannon Bradley, autos writer What happened: New-car prices held steady in 2024 but remained high after a few years of sharp increases — the average new car now sells for about $48,000, and for the first time ever the price gap between new and used cars surpassed $20,000 (average used-car prices are now slightly more than $25,000). Overall, the car market returned to being in the buyer’s favor, as new-car inventories reached pre-pandemic levels, manufacturer incentives began making a comeback and auto loan interest rates started to decline. What’s ahead: The future of the car market is uncertain and depends on policies implemented by the incoming administration. Questions surround the impact of possible tariffs on car prices, whether auto loan rates will continue to drop, and if federal tax credits will still be available for electric vehicle buyers. Buy now, pay later grew in popularity Jackie Veling, personal loans writer What happened: Buy now, pay later continued to be a popular payment choice for U.S. shoppers, even while facing headwinds, like an interpretive ruling from the CFPB (which determined BNPL should be regulated the same as credit cards) and Apple’s discontinuation of its popular Apple Pay Later product. Large players like Affirm, Klarna and Afterpay continued to offer interest-free, pay-in-four plans at most major retailers, along with long-term plans for larger purchases. What’s ahead: Though more regulation had been widely anticipated in 2025, the change in administration suggests the CFPB will play a less active role in regulating BNPL products. For this reason, and its continued strength in the market, BNPL will likely keep growing. Inflation eased, finally Taryn Phaneuf, news writer What happened: Easing inflation was a bright spot in 2024. In June, the consumer price index fell below 3% for the first time in three years. Consumers saw prices level off or decline for many goods, including for groceries, gas and new and used vehicles. But prices haven’t fallen far enough or broadly enough to relieve the pinch many households feel. What’s ahead: The new and higher tariffs proposed by the Trump administration could reignite inflation on a wide range of goods. Rents were still high, but price growth slowed Taryn Phaneuf, news writer What happened: Rent prices remain high, but annual rent inflation slowed significantly compared to recent years, staying around 3.5% for much of 2024, according to Zillow, a real estate website that tracks rents. A wave of newly constructed rental units on the market seems to be helping ease competition among renters and forcing landlords to offer better incentives for signing a lease. What’s ahead: If it continues, a softening rental market could work in renters’ favor. But construction is one of several industries that could see a shortage of workers if the Trump administration follows through on its promise to deport undocumented immigrants. A shortage of workers would mean fewer houses and apartments could be built. Trump won the election, promised tariffs and deportations Anna Helhoski, news writer What happened: After a contentious presidential campaign, former President Donald Trump declared victory over Vice President Kamala Harris. While on the campaign trail, Trump promised to lower inflation, cut taxes, enact tariffs, weaken the power of the Federal Reserve, deport undocumented immigrants and more. Many economists have said Trump’s proposals, if enacted, would likely be inflationary. In Congress, Republicans earned enough seats to control both houses. What’s ahead: It’s unclear which campaign promises Trump will fulfill on his own and with the support of the new Congress. He has promised a slew of “day one” actions that could lead to higher prices, including across-the-board tariffs and mass deportations. Most recently, Trump pledged to enact 20% tariffs on Canada and Mexico, as well as an additional 10% tariff on China. He has also promised to extend or make permanent the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act; many of its provisions expire by the end of 2025. Congress squabbled while consumer-first, antitrust efforts won Anna Helhoski, news writer What happened: Fiscal year 2023-2024’s funding saga finally came to an end in March, then six months later, the battle to fund the fiscal year 2024-2025 began. The Biden Administration waged its own war against junk fees . Antitrust enforcers pushed back against tech giants like Amazon, Apple, Google, and Meta; prevented the Kroger-Albertsons merger; nixed the Jet Blue-Spirit Airlines merger; and moved to ban noncompete agreements. The Supreme Court rejected a challenge to the constitutionality of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, as well as a challenge to abortion pill access. SCOTUS also overruled its landmark Chevron case, which means every federal regulatory agency’s power to set and enforce its own rules are now weaker. What’s ahead: The election’s red sweep means the GOP will control the executive and legislative branches of government. They’ll face the threat of at least one more potential government shutdown; a debt ceiling drama comeback; and the beginning of the debate over extending or making permanent provisions of the expiring 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. More From NerdWallet Anna Helhoski writes for NerdWallet. Email: anna@nerdwallet.com. Twitter: @AnnaHelhoski. The article What Trended in Personal Finance in 2024? originally appeared on NerdWallet .Azenta SVP Wang sells $13,944 in stock
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None(BPT) - Tech gifts are consistently some of the most popular presents to give and receive during the holidays. In fact, according to the annual Consumer Technology Holiday Purchase Patterns report , a record 233 million U.S. adults (89%) will buy tech products during the 2024 holiday season. But with so many devices out there, it can be hard to decide on the perfect option for the loved one on your list. A tablet like the new Fire HD 8 from Amazon offers the versatility of an all-in-one device, with access to streaming, gaming, video chatting, reading or writing all at your fingertips. Fire HD 8 also features a vibrant 8-inch HD display and lightweight, portable design, for high-quality entertainment on the go. Plus, Fire HD 8 comes with three new AI features that can help you get the most out of your tablet experience. Check them out below and learn how they can help you with daily tasks this holiday season and beyond. 1. Meet your personal writing assistant Do you struggle with writing a heartfelt message or finessing a tricky email? Fear not! Writing Assist is here to help. Writing Assist works as part of your Fire tablet's device keyboard and compatible apps, including email, Word documents and social media. In just a few taps, you can transform your writing from good to great. Try Writing Assist's pre-set styles to turn a simple email into a professionally written note. Or, you can ask Writing Assist for grammar suggestions to make your writing more concise, or elaborate on your ideas. You can even "emojify" your writing to add more fun and personality. 2. Learn more in less time Say goodbye to scrolling through pages of information. The new Webpage Summaries feature allows you to learn pertinent information as quickly as possible. Available on the Silk browser on Fire tablets, Webpage Summaries provides quick insights on web articles. In a matter of seconds, this feature will distill the key points in an article or on a webpage into a clear, concise summary of what you need to know. 3. Get creative with your device wallpaper With Wallpaper Creator, you can easily add a touch of creative flair and customization to your tablet's home screen. You can choose from one of the curated prompts to get started on creating a unique background. Or, if you're ready to let your imagination run wild, type a description of what you'd like to see. For example, you can ask for an image of a tiger swimming underwater or a watercolor-style image of a desert landscape in space. Wallpaper Creator will then turn your vision into a reality, delivering a high-resolution image that you can use as your tablet's wallpaper. Celebrate an AI-powered holiday season Writing Assist, Webpage Summaries, and Wallpaper Creator are now available on Amazon's new Fire HD 8 and other compatible Fire tablet devices, including the latest Fire HD 10 and Fire Max 11 tablets. To learn more, or to order a new Fire tablet this gift-giving season, visit Amazon.com .
Bengaluru, Nov 23 (IANS): Commenting on his party’s victory in the bypolls, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah stated on Saturday that it was a triumph of performance and the ideology of the Congress party. Addressing the media on Saturday in Bengaluru, CM Siddaramaiah stated that Congress candidates had emerged victorious in the bye-elections held for three Assembly constituencies in Karnataka. “This is a triumph of the state government’s performance, the Congress’ ideology, and the relentless efforts of our workers. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the voters of Shiggaon, Sandur, and Channapatna seats for blessing and supporting Congress candidates. Congratulations to our victorious candidates Yasir Ahmed Khan Pathan, Annapurna Tukaram, and C.P. Yogeshwara for their resounding victories and entry into the Legislative Assembly," the CM stated. “This election was between the truth of the Congress party and the lies of the BJP and JD(S). Truth has won. Despite the Opposition's relentless false propaganda and baseless allegations, we have achieved a decisive victory,” CM Siddaramaiah said. “The beneficiaries of our guarantee schemes are happy, even as the BJP and JD(S) leaders tried to spread falsehoods about them. The Maharashtra government published misleading advertisements. The people have given them a fitting reply," CM Siddaramaiah asserted. “More than anything, these bye-election results are significant because, since I became Chief Minister, BJP and JD(S) leaders have been targeting me and my government with baseless accusations and character assassination attempts,” he maintained. “These parties colluded, misused the Governor’s office and central investigative agencies, and fabricated scandals to tarnish my image and that of my family. BJP leaders even made false allegations against me and my wife to politically corner us,” CM Siddaramaiah charged. He added, “The BJP and JD(S) also tried to incite communal tensions and create divisions based on caste and religion to weaken the Congress. But Karnataka’s secular and peace-loving citizens have rejected their efforts and supported us.” “In the recent Assembly elections, voters gave us a historic mandate with 136 seats. From the very next day, BJP and JD(S) joined forces to destabilise our government, spending crores to buy our MLAs. The people of Karnataka have not tolerated such anti-democratic actions, as reflected in this result,” the CM opined. “Some Opposition voices expressed concern when we gave a ticket to a Muslim candidate in Shiggaon, fearing Hindu vote polarisation. There was pressure on me to change our decision, but we stood firm,” CM Siddaramaiah stated. "We asked voters to support a capable candidate without considering caste or religion, and the people of Shiggaon have responded positively by electing our candidate. This is a rebuttal to BJP’s communal politics," CM Siddaramaiah stated. "I was deeply hurt by former Prime Minister Deve Gowda’s comments against me. I have worked closely with him for years, yet he accused me of arrogance and was aiming to destroy the Congress government," he said. "I have been a minister for 40 years and Chief Minister twice. I have never shown arrogance. When given an opportunity, I have governed responsibly; when defeated, I have fought back," he said. "I also congratulate Priyanka Gandhi for her emphatic victory in Wayanad, Kerala, with a margin of over 4 lakh votes, and the people of Kerala for their support," CM Siddaramaiah stated. He added, “In Jharkhand, BJP falsely implicated Chief Minister Hemant Soren in a case and sent him to jail using the Enforcement Directorate (ED). Despite this, the people of Jharkhand delivered justice at the ballot box. I congratulate the people of Jharkhand for their decisive mandate.”
FBI shakeup could be on the horizon
Nico Iamaleava throws 4 TD passes to lead No. 10 Tennessee over UTEP 56-0Meanwhile, the news of Ashworth being linked with Arsenal has taken many by surprise. The highly respected football administrator has a proven track record of success, having previously worked at clubs such as West Bromwich Albion and the English Football Association. His expertise in player development and recruitment could prove to be a valuable asset for Arsenal as they look to strengthen their squad in the coming transfer windows.
Donald Trump ’s decision to pick Kash Patel to lead the Federal Bureau of Investigation has set off alarm bells in Washington due to Patel’s fondness for conspiracy theories and his limited experience in leadership and law enforcement. An ardent supporter of the president-elect, Kashyap “Kash” Patel — a lawyer who once worked as a federal prosecutor — has been tapped to replace Christopher Wray atop the FBI . Here are five things to know about the 44-year-old, who has signaled he wants to help dish out Trump’s revenge against his political opponents. A Trump Cheerleader As with Trump’s other Cabinet picks, Patel’s fealty to the president-elect appears to have been key to securing the job. During Trump’s criminal trial in New York, Patel was among a group of supporters who accompanied him to the courthouse, telling reporters that the soon-to-be convicted felon was the victim of an “unconstitutional circus.” Patel’s breakthrough in Trump world came in tandem with his work to discredit the FBI ’s investigation into potential ties between Russia and Trump’s 2016 presidential campaign. As an aide to former House Intelligence Committee Chair and Trump ally Devin Nunes, Patel helped author a report that detailed what it said were errors the Justice Department made in obtaining a warrant to track a former Trump campaign adviser. Patel also held several roles in Trump’s first administration, serving as an adviser on the National Security Council and as chief of staff to the acting secretary of defense. Patel remained close after Trump left office in January 2021. Patel was even subpoenaed to appear before a grand jury in connection with the Justice Department’s probe into Trump’s handling of classified documents. A ‘Middling’ Public Defender Patel has said he worked for about nine years as a public defender in Florida. A New York Times piece cites colleagues who recalled him as a “middling performer with a deep animosity toward the Justice Department prosecutors he found himself up against.” He went on to work as a terrorism prosecutor at the Justice Department and has repeatedly claimed he was the “lead prosecutor” in the government’s pursuit of the perpetrators of the 2012 attack on a U.S. diplomatic compound in Benghazi, Libya, that killed four Americans. Another New York Times article suggests Patel was a junior staff member at the time. Former FBI Deputy Director Andrew McCabe has warned that Patel is out of his depth, citing his lack of management and law enforcement experience. “The fact that Kash Patel is profoundly unqualified for this job is not even like a matter for debate,” McCabe said Saturday on CNN . Promises Media: ‘We’re Going To Come After You’ Patel’s notoriety stems in part from a series of brash claims he made during interviews with right-wing media. Patel has said he wants to upend the FBI — cracking down on leaks to the media and overhauling intelligence-gathering operations — and even vowed to shut down the agency’s Washington, D.C., headquarters on Day 1 to replace it as a museum for the “deep state,” the MAGA-land buzzword for government bureaucracy. Trump has promised “ retribution ” on his return to the White House, and Patel appears to have taken the vow to heart. In a 2023 interview with Steve Bannon, Trump’s former adviser, Patel talked about having “all-American patriots top to bottom” in the FBI before making an ominous warning. “We will go out and find the conspirators not just in government, but in the media,” he said. “Yes, we’re going to come after the people in the media who lied about American citizens, who helped Joe Biden rig presidential elections.” “We’re going to come after you,” Patel continues. “Whether it’s criminally or civilly, we’ll figure that out. But yeah, we’re putting you all on notice.” His Books Name His Targets Patel’s obsession with the “deep state” and conspiracy theories is best illustrated in his own writing. Don't let this be the end of the free press. The free press is under attack — and America's future hangs in the balance. As other newsrooms bow to political pressure, HuffPost is not backing down. Would you help us keep our news free for all? We can't do it without you. Can't afford to contribute? Support HuffPost by creating a free account and log in while you read. You've supported HuffPost before, and we'll be honest — we could use your help again . We view our mission to provide free, fair news as critically important in this crucial moment, and we can't do it without you. Whether you give once or many more times, we appreciate your contribution to keeping our journalism free for all. You've supported HuffPost before, and we'll be honest — we could use your help again . We view our mission to provide free, fair news as critically important in this crucial moment, and we can't do it without you. Whether you give just one more time or sign up again to contribute regularly, we appreciate you playing a part in keeping our journalism free for all. Already contributed? Log in to hide these messages. In his 2023 book “Government Gangsters,” Patel eyes a “comprehensive housecleaning” of the Justice Department, and even lists officials and former officials on his blacklist — including Attorney General Merrick Garland, but also many members of the first Trump administration. Patel is also the author of a children’s book called “The Plot Against the King,” which calls Trump “King Donald.” Kash himself plays a wizard who thwarts the plans of a barely disguised Hillary Clinton. Sells “K$H” Branded Merch Just like Trump — whose merchandise includes $100,000 watches and $10,000 guitars — Patel is no stranger to the power of branding. Shortly after Trump left office, Patel launched “Fight with Kash,” an organization that funds defamation lawsuits and sells socks and other clothing emblazoned with the “K$H” logo. Trump’s FBI Director, displaying some of the products he has for sale. Related From Our Partner
In conclusion, China's economy is well-positioned to continue its journey of growth and development, supported by a solid foundation, a proactive policy framework, and a resilient spirit. With a clear vision for the future and a determination to overcome challenges, China's economic ship is set to navigate through turbulent waters and emerge stronger and more prosperous than ever before.Tate McCubbin scores 20 as Austin Peay rolls past Brescia 93-46