Must Reads
By John H. Robinson, Financial Planner
Below are 19 of the most timely and interesting articles I have read over the past few months. They cover a broad range of topics. Some of these may find their way into future articles, but all are worth sharing now.
Things to Worry About
The Best Way to Own Gold in a Retirement Account—and Why You Should (Barron’s)
Understanding the Debasement Trade (Charles Schwab)
Investors are piling into bond funds at a rapid rate. That’s a problem. (MarketWatch)
6% Treasury yields are the biggest risk facing stocks right now. Here’s why. (MarketWatch)
America's debt is getting more expensive (Axios)
'Just Really Shocking': Americans Rush To Take Social Security Benefits Early (Financial Advisor)
New Concepts
They Looked Like They Were Getting Rich on Polymarket—but None of It Was Real (WSJ)
Don’t rely on AI for personal finance advice, study finds (CNBC, Journal of Financial Planning)
Retirement Spending
The Best Strategies for Boosting Starting Withdrawal Rates in Retirement (Morningstar)
David Blanchett Comments on Morningstar Research and “success rates”
The 4% Rule May Be Costing Retirees Money, Morningstar Says (FA Magazine)
Does the 4% retirement rule still work? New research points to another strategy to maximize income (CNBC)
The hidden risks of “income for life” in target-date funds (Morningstar)
Tax Planning
Maximize tax-free Social Security income with this IRA withdrawal strategy
Active vs. Passive Portfolio Management
Stock-Picking Funds Are Performing as Poorly as Ever (Wall Street Journal)
Insurance Risk Management
If You Get in a Car Crash, the Risk Is Growing Your Insurance Won’t Pay (WSJ 8/9/2026)
WSJ finds auto insurers refused to pay 45% of liability and medical claims last year (Car & Driver), August 13, 2026)
Real Estate & Rent vs. Own
Owning a home is overrated. Renting is now often a much better money move. (MarketWatch)
Condos are getting cheaper — but list prices don’t include this fast-growing hidden cost (MarketWatch)