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The Ascent Articles

Learn more about applying the principles of money management to help stay in control of your finances.

Recent Articles

April 18, 2024 | By Ben Gran

Why I'm (Still) Not Buying Bitcoin in 2024

Bitcoin recently reached all-time highs in March 2024. But this asset could be a risky bet for the future. See why Bitcoin skeptics are staying out.
April 18, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

5 of My Favorite Kirkland Products at Costco -- and Why They Might Become Your Favorites, Too

Costco's Kirkland Signature brand offers a world of value. Read on to learn more.
April 18, 2024 | By Cole Tretheway

3 Reasons Gen Z Should Skip CDs and Invest Their Money Elsewhere

CDs are a bad fit for 20-somethings with debt and low balances. Find out why Gen Z should consider investing money elsewhere.
April 18, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

I'm No Longer Happy With My Brokerage Account. What Are My Options?

Not a fan of your brokerage account? Read on to see what next steps to take.
April 18, 2024 | By Brittney Myers

This Is How Much the Average American Saves With a Hybrid Car

The big selling point of a hybrid vehicle is saving on gas. See how much savings that really means.
April 18, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

I've Been to Disney World 3 Times and Have Saved a Ton of Money by Doing This One Thing

This writer has pulled off three budget-friendly trips to Disney. Read on to see how.
April 18, 2024 | By Emma Newbery

3 Little-Known Perks of Owning a Hybrid Car

Hybrid cars offer a compromise between electric and gas vehicles. Find out what benefits hybrids have to offer.
April 18, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Here's What Happens When You Take an IRA Withdrawal to Buy a Home

Withdrawing from an IRA to buy a home might seem like a good idea, but it's a choice that could backfire. Read on to learn more.
April 18, 2024 | By Christy Bieber

CD Rates Are Doing Something They Haven't Done Since the 1980s -- and It's Good News for Savers

CD rates are higher for short-term CDs than longer-term ones for the first time in almost four decades. Read on to learn how to capitalize on it.
April 18, 2024 | By Kailey Hagen

4 Ways to Get Rid of Your Old Car and Make a Profit in the Process

No matter what its condition, there's a way to profit off of your old car. Here are four options for you to consider.
April 18, 2024 | By Ben Gran

Top 3 Money Moves You Can Make to Help Fight Climate Change

Want to fight climate change? Change the way you spend and invest. See how to reduce carbon emissions and boost your bank account.
April 18, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Struggling to Fund Your IRA in 2024? 3 Things to Do Now

It's not easy to find money for an IRA. Read on for tips if you've been struggling so far this year.
April 18, 2024 | By Christy Bieber

3 Best Savings Accounts With High Rates and No Minimum Balance Requirements

There are three great savings accounts right now that you may want to consider. Check them out to see if one is right for you.
April 18, 2024 | By Christy Bieber

These Are the Money Moves I've Made That Have Improved My Happiness the Most

Saving up an emergency fund increased my happiness by giving me peace of mind. Learn about this and other moves that have made a big impact.
April 18, 2024 | By Ben Gran

Buying Fractional Shares Can Be a Great Choice if You're One of These 5 Investors

Some online brokerages let you buy fractional shares as a lower-cost way to buy individual stocks. See if you're the right fit for fractional shares.
April 18, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Here's What Happens When You Repay a Personal Loan Early

You're generally not barred from paying off a personal loan early. But it might cost you. Read on to learn more.
April 18, 2024 | By Christy Bieber

I Tried and Failed to Cut Spending on Dining Out. Here's What I'm Doing Instead

Instead of cutting back on restaurant spending, I've reassessed my spending priorities and made cuts in other areas instead. Find out why here.
April 18, 2024 | By Ben Gran

The 3 Best Pieces of Investing Advice I've Ever Received

Read on for the best investment advice that this personal finance writer ever received -- and it's not "how to pick stocks."
April 18, 2024 | By Christy Bieber

These 2 Savings Accounts Offer High Rates -- and a Bonus if You Sign Up Soon

Both SoFi and Barclays are currently offering great savings account bonuses for new customers -- and other account perks, too. Check them out here.
April 18, 2024 | By Lyle Daly

Get a Sam's Club Membership for Just $14 Through April 30

Sam's Club is offering a huge discount on annual memberships, but it won't last long. Find out more and see how you can sign up.
April 18, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Does a Costco Membership Make Sense if You Live in a City?

You don't need a large living space to make good use of a Costco membership. Read on to learn more.
April 18, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Retiring in a Year? Make This Brokerage Account Move Now

It's important to review your investments as retirement gets closer. Read on to learn more.
April 18, 2024 | By Christy Bieber

2 Reasons I'm Not Switching My Savings Accounts to Get Better Rates

Different savings accounts offer different rates. Learn why it may not be worth changing banks to get a higher APY on your saved cash.
April 18, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

The 'Singles Tax' for Solo Renters Just Hit $7,110

Renting a home can be burdensome when you're single. Read on for ways to lower your costs.
April 18, 2024 | By Ben Gran

This New Federal Filing Requirement for LLC Owners Only Took Me 5 Minutes

A new rule for small business owners took effect in 2024. Do you know what BOI Reporting is? See how to protect yourself in just five minutes.