47% of Americans wish for a savings “do-over" 🛤️

[Empower | The Currency]

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Halfway through the year can be a great time to check in on your financial goals. Whether you're paying down debt, building savings, or investing for the future, small adjustments today can help you stay on track. ‌ Savings can be one of the easiest places to start. Nearly half (47%) of Americans wish for a “do-over” on savings, making every opportunity to maximize returns count. ‌ While today's rates may not be at their peak, a high-yield savings account (HYSA) can still pay more than many traditional savings accounts. Understanding how annual percentage yields (APYs) work can help you compare your options. ‌ — The Editors

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🛣️ Smooth course: Tax outcomes are shaped by financial choices throughout the year, not just at filing time. Learn why the summer months can be ideal to review your tax withholding, revisit workplace savings contributions, and plan out charitable giving before year-end deadlines approach. ‌ 🚃 Down the line: Changing jobs doesn't have to sideline your retirement savings. A rollover IRA can help you consolidate old workplace plans while keeping your money invested in a tax-advantaged account. Learn key rules, tax considerations, and why direct rollovers can matter. ‌ 💰 Ready, set, go: One way to prepare for the unexpected? Consider a financial go-bag. Having these 10 essential documents at your fingertips during an emergency can be key to helping you reduce delays, avoid fraud, and access your money when it matters most.

Steady momentum ‌ America's small businesses are feeling more optimistic. Confidence improved* in June, though many owners remain measured about hiring and expansion. ‌ Across the country, the formation of small businesses has also been rising over the past quarter, with 531,423* business applications filed in June 2026. ‌ Starting a business is one milestone — planning for retirement is another. Learn how a SEP IRA can help small-business owners and self-employed workers build for the future in a tax-advantaged way.

Everyday wins ‌ As consumers look for ways to stretch their budgets, even small savings can add up. Around 59%* regularly use grocery store loyalty programs, with shoppers who use digital coupons saving an average of $395.81* a year on groceries. ‌ The latest Consumer Price Index shows grocery prices rose 2.7% over the past year. While not every aisle has seen yearly increases, many meats, fruits, and vegetables have outpaced overall food inflation. Some shoppers are adjusting: Empower Personal Dashboard™ data shows average monthly grocery spending fell to $611.33 in the first half of 2026 from a monthly average of $658.69 for all of 2025.

Riding on ‌ Classic cars are becoming part of the Great Wealth Transfer, with an estimated $570 billion* in collector vehicles expected to change hands over the next 15 years. ‌ “Giving while living” — transferring wealth during lifetime years — can be an effective strategy to build generational wealth. For recipients, inheriting possessions, real estate, and other assets can mean balancing nostalgia with practicality. Learn how pressing pause before making financial inheritance decisions can help.

In case you missed it, read on: ‌ Check out the latest stats: Average 401(k) balance by age When it makes sense to use a 529 plan for education Money and marriage: Decisions for newly married couples

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