Meta plans to reduce its metaverse budget by about 30% to prioritize AI investments, reflecting a strategy shift as the company faces a significant stock decline. This move is aimed at focusing on AI’s potential while balancing spending in its Reality Labs division, which has historically invested heavily in the metaverse.
A 48-year-old woman is torn between retiring early or continuing work to increase her son’s inheritance. Despite her concern for his financial future, she has already provided substantial support, including a debt-free education and a significant investment account. Balancing her retirement and family obligations could allow her to enjoy life while still aiding him.
A UBS survey of billionaire clients indicates a shift in investment preferences from US assets to Western Europe and China for the next year. Notably, 40% see opportunities in Western Europe, with concerns over tariffs and geopolitical risks impacting decisions. Private equity remains favored, while interest in North America declines.
BlackRock has enhanced its liquid alternative platform with the iShares Systematic Alternatives Active ETF (IALT), designed to provide distinctive returns across market cycles. This multi-strategy fund leverages extensive data analytics and human insight while contributing to BlackRock’s significant ETF growth, projected to exceed $4.2 trillion by 2030.
Michael and Susan Dell’s $6.25 billion donation highlights the Trump Account initiative, proposed as kids’ retirement accounts to support 25 million low-income children. However, despite optimism, its impact may be minimal due to unrealistic contributions expected from parents. The program lacks incentives, suggesting it may disappoint many beneficiaries.
On Thursday, BlackRock and J.P. Morgan launched new ETFs: BlackRock’s iShares Total USD Fixed Income Market ETF (BTOT) and J.P. Morgan’s 100% U.S. Treasury Securities Money Market ETF (JMMF). BTOT aims for broad bond market exposure with low fees, while JMMF focuses on U.S. Treasuries, attracting income-seeking investors.
Silver is experiencing a significant parabolic price spike, currently around $60/oz, driven by retail investors and a supply-demand deficit. However, this pattern mirrors previous spikes since the 1970s, suggesting a potential collapse below $20/oz. As the Fed signals an end to interest rate cuts, Silver’s bubble may burst, presenting risks for shorting.
In 2026, U.S. stocks may continue to rise, potentially reaching an S&P 500 target of 7600. While big tech and AI firms are driving growth, a market correction is anticipated in 2027 or 2028. Analysts suggest sectors like healthcare, renewables, and industrials may outperform amid shifting investor sentiment.
The VanEck Retail ETF (RTH) offers investors access to major U.S.-listed retailers, reflecting both traditional and e-commerce retail trends. The fund has underperformed compared to the S&P this year but has shown strong performance over the long term. Consumer strength and rising retail sales drive potential growth, despite risks from tariffs and a cooling labor market. Investors are advised to adopt a ‘Hold’ rating for the ETF presently.
The article recommends buying assets tracking major American indices, highlighting optimistic market data such as a low Put/Call Ratio and significant foreign investments. Encouraging trends in oil prices and temporary hiring suggest a positive job market outlook. Overall, the author maintains a bullish stance on American stocks amid potential political changes in 2026.
In 2026, small investors are increasingly favoring physical gold, notably Gold Eagle coins, over ETFs due to factors such as tangibility, security, and protection against inflation. Physical gold provides diversification and ownership control, reducing reliance on market fluctuations. The rising popularity of Gold Eagle coins combines aesthetic value with tangible investment appeal.
The WisdomTree U.S. High Dividend Fund ETF (DHS) focuses on high-dividend yielding large-cap U.S. companies, with a distribution rate of $3.22/share and a yield of 3.18%. Launched in 2006, it has 363 holdings, primarily in healthcare and financials. DHS is suited for investors seeking core dividend income in a diversified portfolio.
As 2026 approaches, cautious optimism prevails regarding modest economic growth and consumer credit stability. Analysts predict a potential S&P 500 earnings growth of 4%-4.5%. Concerns about AI sentiment, concentrated market dynamics, and the housing sector’s weak outlook indicate risks are skewed to the downside, leading to a projected S&P 500 target of 6,400.
The Neuberger Berman Emerging Markets Debt Hard Currency ETF (NEMD) is projected to thrive in 2026 after a standout 2025, where it gained 16.36%. Its success stems from strong fundamentals, sound economic policies, and resilience amid geopolitical challenges. Anticipated monetary easing and favorable commodity prices support continued growth for emerging market bonds.
