Money Matters

California restaurants and delivery services will no longer be allowed to collect service fees from customers beginning this July. This news struck a nerve for business owners, and famed entrepreneur Jon Taffer spoke out against the new law. California’s Recent Wage Changes Image Credit: Shutterstock / Jirsak After the announcement recently that many California fast … Read more

Do you ever look at your utility bill and wonder why it’s so high? Could it be that you’re not just paying for what you use but also for hidden fees and sneaky charges? 1. Estimated Readings Instead of actual meter readings, some companies use estimates, which can often be higher than your actual usage. … Read more

Rumors are swirling about a possible increase in gas prices in California following the passing of a controversial emissions program.  Fueling the Future Since 2007, California has been following the Low Carbon Fuel Standard (LCFS) – a rule that encourages the use of cleaner fuels by making companies lower the carbon pollution from their products. … Read more

What’s the most expensive thing you can own? Yep, it’s a child! Let’s walk through the real costs of parenting, armed with modern financial facts that might have you double-checking your budget. 1. Early Years Essentials Diapers, formula, and baby gear can cost about $50 to $70 per week. That adds up to as much … Read more

Considering an expat life for your family’s next big adventure? It’s not just about new cultures and cuisines—the cost of living can deliver some real sticker shock compared to the U.S. Let’s break down these costs by category, so you know what might await abroad. 1. Housing Rentals Renting in prime expat locations like Tokyo’s … Read more

The subscription economy has boomed, offering convenience and variety, but it also presents numerous financial pitfalls, especially for those who value frugality and careful budgeting. Here’s a critical look at how these models can drain your wallet. 1. Small Costs Add Up What seems like a minor monthly fee can accumulate into a significant annual … Read more

In today’s digital age, influencers wield significant power over consumer spending habits, especially through platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. Here’s how they’re nudging you to open your wallet more often. 1. Sponsored Content Many influencers post content that looks organic but is actually paid for by brands. This blending of advertisement and genuine recommendation … Read more

Astronomical childcare costs have become a major issue for US families, and a new survey shows just how dire the state of the national childcare industry has become. Recent Report on Childcare Image Credit: Shutterstock / Oksana Kuzmina Anxiety around rising rent and property prices has been rising exponentially in recent years. But a recent … Read more

Shock comments have caused an uproar in the United Kingdom, where a high-ranking government official has claimed that not all is as it seems within the nation’s financial sector. Deputy Foreign Secretary’s Bold Claims Image Credit: Shutterstock / B. Lenoir On Monday, the UK’s deputy foreign secretary made some comments that got people talking. Shocking … Read more

Living in the heart of where everything’s happening—places like Brooklyn’s Williamsburg, San Francisco’s Mission District, or Austin’s East Side—might sound dreamy, but it comes with its own set of financial surprises. 1. Steep Rent Increases In hotspots like Williamsburg, expect rent hikes that outpace the national average, sometimes doubling within a decade. 2. Pricey Commutes … Read more