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Good Week For Bonds. Next One Could be Interesting

By:
Matthew Graham

Fri, Jan 12 2024, 4:50 PM

Good Week For Bonds. Next One Could be Interesting

The bond market traded about as well as anyone could have expected on a week where core monthly CPI came out at 0.3 vs 0.3.  If anything, the level of bullishness and resilience was a bit higher than the average market participant probably expected relative to the available data.  Part of the reason is speculation that we’re about to receive some sort of confirmation that the Fed is willing to remain friendly despite the big drop in rates at the end of 2023.  There’s specific speculation that Tuesday’s appearance by Waller will contain clues about the Fed’s road map.  We can’t know if it will or won’t… only that it would make for an interesting start to the holiday-shortened week.

    • M/M Core PPI
      • 0.0 vs 0.2 f’ cast, 0.0 prev

09:34 AM

Slightly weaker overnight, but now stronger after PPI data. 10yr down 2.7bps at 3.948.  MBS up 3 ticks (.09).

02:37 PM

Sideways to slightly weaker but leveling off into the PM hours.  MBS up 2 ticks (.06).  10yr down 1.9bps at 3.956

04:45 PM

Heading out with resilience intact.  MBS up 3 ticks (.09) and 10yr down 3.6bps at 3.939.

 Download our mobile app to get alerts for MBS Commentary and streaming MBS and Treasury prices.

Source: mortgagenewsdaily.com

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Regulatory, Compliance, RIA, Accounting, AI Products; CFPB Penalty News; Credit/FICO and Investor Updates

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Regulatory, Compliance, RIA, Accounting, AI Products; CFPB Penalty News; Credit/FICO and Investor Updates

By:
Rob Chrisman

Wed, Jan 10 2024, 10:51 AM

I’m so tired of the mainstream press talking about the 2024 election, 10 months out. Given that the median age of U.S. citizens is about 38 years, one would think we could find someone under the age of 75 to be president, regardless of party affiliation. On the other end of the age spectrum, at age 34, Gabriel Attal became France’s youngest prime minister. France’s inflation rate is running at 3.7 percent, which I mention because inflation and the actions of central banks are linked, and the inflation rate and the CFPB are linked. (Whenever I mention the CFPB to my cat Myrtle she feigns indifference. Sometimes she even saunters away.) The CFPB announced the annual adjustments for inflation to the CFPB’s civil penalty amounts, as required by the Federal Civil Penalties Inflation Adjustment Act, as amended. This final rule is effective on January 15, 2024. Tomorrow we will have the Consumer Price Index, meant to broadly capture changes in the prices of goods and services; more tomorrow! (Today’s podcast can be found here, and this week’s is sponsored by Truework. By connecting every verification method into one platform, Truework helps lenders eliminate process disruptions, maintain a competitive borrower experience, and reduce the fiscal impact of verifying income.)

Lender and Broker Services and Software

Jonathan Spinetto COO & Co-founder at Nyfty Door, grew their business from 0 loan originations two years ago when he signed with TRUV, and is projected to hit 3,000 loans a month in 2024. NYFTY door sees conversion rates over 60 percent with Truv and is saving 60-80 percent over competitors! Contact TRUV today for your income, employment, insurance, and asset verifications.

How will you reach your goals in 2024? To lower costs and improve your margins on every loan, outsource to Computershare Loan Services (CLS). With CLS, you get an extension of your team that can support every part of your business, from your originations’ operation to your MSR retain/release strategy. Leverage their 20 years of experience and expertise to reduce costs, improve efficiencies, and mitigate risk. In this industry, you deserve a partner that has it all. Contact CLS to find out how they can help you reach your goals… in any market.

Production Managers are you starting 2024 off with the question, “How can I get all my originators working more like my top producers?” Then, you’re looking for the holy grail: habit duplication. Usherpa has been researching habits of highly successful loan officers for nearly 30 years, helping literally thousands of LOs increase production using habit duplication… through every conceivable market condition! How? Using data analytics (and lengthy history in the industry), Usherpa identified the most powerful habits of successful producers. Leveraging those trends coupled with Usherpa’s technology and commitment to customized training, you can ensure your team is primed to operate like the big hitters. Make your life a little bit easier and give your LOs the tools to duplicate top producers’ habits, learn how here. While you’re at it download the Usherpa eGuide “3 Habits of Top Producing Loan Officers (You Can Duplicate).”

Valuation professionals are tasked with being independent, impartial, and objective. But completely removing human involvement in the home valuation process is nearly impossible. Thanks to the increased use of artificial intelligence (AI), however, today’s technology can help lenders and investors assess property values more accurately and prevent valuation bias. Sign up for a complimentary webinar hosted by ICE to hear about AI and the future of home valuations. A panel of industry experts will discuss the ways AI-powered tools eliminate valuation bias. They’ll also cover how AI accelerates the valuation process, and ways you can look out for fraud when using AI in home appraisals. The webinar, Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Home Valuations, will be held on Tuesday, Jan. 23 from 2 -3 p.m. Don’t miss out on key insights: register here.

Don’t just “stay alive until 25” with Loan Vision, a software built by the mortgage industry for the mortgage industry, you can “do more in 24!” Customers on Loan Vision see improvements of 30 percent+ decrease in days to close the books, 20 percent+ reduction in accounting headcount, complete LOS to G/L automation, and improved reporting and visibility. Interested in learning how Loan Vision can help you run a more efficient and profitable company? Contact Carl Wooloff to schedule a call today.

Halcyon has introduced a pioneering RIA Services integration with Encompass Partner Connect, aiming to diversify lender revenue amidst a challenging market. With the decline of refinancing opportunities and high interest rates, Halcyon’s initiative focuses on enhancing borrower-lender relationships through its new RIA Offering. This service enables loan officers to identify factors influencing home purchases during customer interactions, facilitating seamless referrals to RIAs for financial advice directly within Encompass. If a borrower signs up for services, a revenue share is provided back to the lender. Halcyon’s advanced technology ensures all tracking, compliance, and details are handled efficiently for the lender. As buying a home is often the largest investment in one’s life, early financial advice can be crucial for ensuring a stable financial future for new homeowners. You can read the full press release here. Want to learn more about the only Registered Investment Advisory solution on Encompass? Reach out today!

Compliance and Regulatory Tracking Products

Best Practices for Out-of-State Mortgage Lending from Ncontracts! As a mortgage lender, you’re already familiar with the Truth in Lending Act (TILA), the Home Mortgage Disclosure Act (HDMA), and the Equal Opportunity Credit Act (ECOA). However, mortgage lending is regulated by state laws as well, and that’s where things get complicated. In this latest article, experts from Ncontracts address the potential regulatory pitfalls mortgage lenders encounter when they grow their business in other states, plus ways to overcome them. Read the full article for more.

“Looking for an overview of all the significant legislation and regulations affecting lenders and servicers in 2023 and a preview of what’s to come in 2024? Download the annual regulatory and legislative update from Covius Compliance Solutions. Our latest report looks at what’s new in loss mitigation requirements, the CFPB’s crusade against junk fees, fair lending and servicing initiatives and growing scrutiny of AI and Chatbot usage. The report, titled “Navigating the Mortgage Industry Landscape: 2023 Review & 2024 Outlook,” also provides an analysis of major state lending and debt collection legislation and proposals. Get your copy today.

Credit and Investor News

In a combination of credit and lender news, CrossCountry Mortgage (CCM) has become an early adopter of FICO® Score 10 T, the most predictive score, to support origination and decision making for non-confirming loans. “Additionally, CCM is the first mortgage lender to commit to issuing mortgage-backed securities (MBS), exclusively based on FICO Score 10 T, enabling investors to update their guidelines to accept the most predictive score for MBS and allowing the $12 trillion MBS global market to have access to more powerful insights and information… This move will enable investors to update their guidelines to accept the most predictive score for MBS and allow the $12 trillion MBS global market to have access to more powerful insights and information. This commitment will be the first step for investors to familiarize themselves with the new score and realize the promised performance improvement. This first ever instance of FICO Score 10 T applied to an MBS pool will show investors, rating agencies, and other stakeholders a real-world example of the improved predictive performance offered by FICO Score 10 T.” “FICO is committed to assisting mortgage industry participants looking to transition to its most current model, FICO® Score 10 T. The FICO Score Migration Resource Center provides a detailed guide to support organizations through their score transition with key planning steps and activities, in addition to implementation best practices.”

Effective immediately, Pennymac is aligning with FHA ML 2023-17 supporting the use of rental income for single-family properties with an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU). For information, view PennyMac Announcement 23-88.

FHA and VA Increased Loan Limits for 2024 are addressed in PennyMac Announcement 23-87.

HighTechLending Wholesale introduced its new Jumbo Proprietary Reverse Product, the Platinum Reverse, available in three variations: Maximum LTV Fixed Rate, Adjustable Rate with a Line of Credit, and Reduced LTV with a lower Fixed Rate.

Plaza gives you the renovation programs your borrowers need to transform their current or future home to be “remote-ready” for work, school or anything life brings. Borrowers can combine the purchase or refinance of their home with the cost of its renovation, all in a single closing. Plaza offers the popular Fannie Mae® HomeStyle®, Freddie Mac CHOICERenovation® USDA Renovation and VA Renovation programs, as well as FHA 203(k) Standard and Limited.

The Federal Housing Administration announced that it will increase the maximum claim amount for their Reverse Mortgage Program (Home Equity Conversion Mortgage) in calendar year 2024 from $1,089,300 to $1,149,825 effective for case numbers assigned on or after January 1, 2024. Contact HighTech Lending to discuss HECM opportunities.

In November, VA published Transmittal of Change 38 to VA Pamphlet 26-7, Revised, VA Lender’s Handbook (07/27/2023) announcing revisions to VA Lenders Handbook Chapter 7 Topic 7, on Temporary Buydowns. For additional information, see AmeriHome Mortgage Product Announcement 20231208-CL.

Angel Oak’s DSCR Loan (Investor Cash Flow) program has been enhanced to accommodate an impressive 85 percent Loan-to-Value (LTV).

The Second+, Hometown Equity Mortgage’s standalone second boasts an impressive CLTV to 90 percent.

Capital Markets

Even with this week’s mini-Refunding, it’s been a bit of a snoozer in the capital markets. Typically, mortgage and Treasury security pricing is a direct result of supply and demand, although Treasuries and MBS saw some brief buying yesterday in reaction to the day’s strong $52 billion 3-year note auction and the market inched down in price ahead of the close. The November trade balance was better than expected, showing a deficit of $63.2 billion versus a downwardly revised $64.5 billion in October. Exports were $4.8 billion less than October exports while imports were $6.1 billion less than October imports. The drop in both exports and imports fits in with a weakening global economic environment. Separately, the NFIB Small Business Optimism Index rose to 91.9 in December from 90.6 in November.

Today’s economic calendar kicked off with mortgage applications increasing 9.9 percent from one week earlier, according to data from the Mortgage Bankers Association’s Weekly Mortgage Applications Survey for the week ending January 5, 2024. The results include an adjustment to account for the New Year’s holiday. Later today brings Wholesale inventories and sales for November, more Treasury auctions that will be headlined by $37 billion of reopened 10-year notes, and remarks from New York Fed President Williams. We begin the day with Agency MBS prices roughly unchanged from Tuesday night, the 10-year yielding 4.00 after closing yesterday at 4.02 percent, and the 2-year at 4.34.

LO Jobs

“Embarking on a new professional journey shouldn’t mean pressing pause on your success. At Homestead Funding, we support seamless transitions for our newest team members while safeguarding your uninterrupted business growth. Our dedicated Onboarding Team provides you with program knowledge, marketing materials, and essential tools, paving the way for your accomplishments. As we approach our upcoming Sales Summit this Spring, our Loan Originators will have the chance to delve into the latest industry technology and strategies presented by leading mortgage experts. Discover how Homestead facilitated a smooth transition for Carrie Hamel and her team. Within just a year, Carrie achieved top-producer status, earning a coveted spot in our 2023 President’s Club. Ready to propel your business forward with us? Contact Michele Teague at (518)-368-1494 to explore how Homestead Funding can be your mechanism for success!”

“Okay, here’s what I came up with…New Year, New Career at PrimeLending. Now is the perfect time to take charge and position yourself to thrive in 2024 and beyond. Contact us today to set up a guided tour of our best-in-class tech stack that’s helping our LOs build their personal brand and close more loans. Schedule a time to meet with PrimeLending’s dynamic, engaged leaders, the driving force behind your future success. Get to know the camaraderie and passion that define our award-winning culture, one reason over 30 percent of our workforce has called PrimeLending home for more than a decade. Seize this moment and explore making the change that will propel your career to the next level. Your future awaits, and it all starts by connecting with Nic Hartke. The time is now!”

Fairway Independent Mortgage is hosting a Virtual Fairway Day on Thursday, January 18, at 2PM CT. “Want to know what makes Fairway the best mortgage company to work for? Now’s your chance! Join us and learn everything you need to know about Fairway’s products, platforms, training and coaching directly from Fairway CEO, Steve Jacobson, President of Retail Sales East, David Lazowski and other executives​.”

 Download our mobile app to get alerts for Rob Chrisman’s Commentary.

Source: mortgagenewsdaily.com

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Vendor and Lender Tools; Agency News; 2023: Hottest Year on Record

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Vendor and Lender Tools; Agency News; 2023: Hottest Year on Record

By:
Rob Chrisman

Tue, Jan 9 2024, 8:37 AM

Is it just my imagination or do restaurants no longer have salt and pepper shakers on the tables after COVID? Is it just my imagination or do organizations with initials that begin with “N” have trouble keeping their leadership? In August of 2023 the chief of NAR resigned, last week it was the NRA, and this week it is NAR’s turn again, this time losing Tracy Kasper to blackmail!

Meanwhile, keeping on with real estate news, and realizing that anyone can sue anyone, news came out after Christmas that Zillow, which also owns Zillow Home Loans, is suing rivals over software that schedules property showings. 

Agency news

Freddie Mac (FHLMC) and Fannie Mae (FNMA) still have the lion’s share of the applications coming through lenders. What’s going on with their conventional conforming products?

Fannie Mae SVC-2023-06 December Servicing Guide update advises large non-depository sellers/servicers of updates to the frequency of financial reporting requirements and provides other miscellaneous updates.

Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac are equipping lenders with updated resources for Uniform Loan Delivery Dataset (ULDD) Phase 5. Updates include an enhanced ULDD extension schema, featuring Phase 5 extension data points, and updated ULDD FAQs referencing the schema.

Fannie Mae posted the December Appraiser Quality Monitoring (AQM) list.

Pennymac Announcement 23-89 addresses Fannie Mae SEL-2023-09, Rental Income and Self-Employed Borrowers Update.

AmeriHome Mortgage Announcement 20231209-CL summarizes previously published changes made during December, additional changes made with the announcement, and recent Agency and regulatory news.

Mother Nature bats last

Yes, storms are a regular event around the world. For example, the storm hitting the Midwest and Southeast of the United States with blizzard conditions and potential flooding is “normal.”

What isn’t “normal” is 2023 being the hottest year on record, whether it is caused by man or part of a natural cycle over thousands of years. “Climate change deniers” can shrug it off, but when the increased likelihood of major storms, flooding, and forest fires impact mortgage pricing and insurance rates (if you can get insurance at all), and therefore your clients, it is a problem. Or if places like Honduras become unlivable due to the heat and lack of air conditioning, forcing shifts in where populations live, then it matters.

Tennessee Tornadoes: DR-4751-TN. and 4751-DR-TN Amendment 001.

On 12/28/2023, with Amendment No. 1 to DR-4751, FEMA declared federal disaster aid with individual assistance has been made available to three Tennessee counties, Cheatham, Gibson, and Stewart, affected by severe storms and tornadoes on 12/9/2023. See AmeriHome Mortgage Disaster Announcement 20231210-CL for inspection requirements.

Capital markets: pretty quiet out there

Economic data over the past week has highlighted the various effects tighter economic policy has had on different sectors of the economy. Interest rate sensitive areas remain the most strained, but 216k jobs were added during December and the unemployment rate remained at 3.7 percent, which shows labor markets have only moderated slightly. Most new jobs were concentrated in government, healthcare, and leisure and hospitality. November’s JOLTS report showed job openings continue to shrink as demand for labor slowly subsides and the quit rate fell below its pre-pandemic level.

December was also the 14th consecutive month of contraction in the manufacturing sector of the economy, according to the ISM Manufacturing Index. Spending on durable goods has fallen five of the last ten months compared to spending on services which has only dipped once in the past 40 months. However, demand for services is expected to moderate as the economy slows. Construction spending ticked up 0.4 percent in November though most spending was concentrated in single family housing. Multi-family construction spending has lost momentum as vacancy rates have risen.

After a lack of news to open the week (we learned that consumer credit increased by $23.7 billion in November), today’s economic calendar is already under way with the NFIB Small Business Optimism Index for December (91.9 versus 90.6, so a slight increase) and the November trade deficit ($63.2 billion, down from the prior month but little changed). Later today brings Redbook same store sales for the week ending January 6 and Treasury auctions headlined by $52 billion 3-year notes. Markets will also receive remarks from Fed Vice Chair of Supervision Barr. We begin the day with Agency MBS prices worse .125 from Monday’s close, the 10-year yielding 4.05 after closing yesterday at 4.00 percent, and the 2-year at 4.38.

Lender and broker services and software

Orion Lending slashed its annual expenses by $300,000 and boosted their conversion rate by 32 percent using Truv’s income and employment verification solution. “Truv transformed our verification process, expanding our reach and cutting costs,” asserts Richard Plummer, EVP of Operations at Orion Lending. Stop Overpaying. Contact TRUV today for your income, employment, insurance, and asset verifications.

“Wish you had a New Year’s resolution you could actually keep in 2024? How about 5? Contact PHH today and get on track to reduce delinquencies, shorten default timelines, resolve more loans in foreclosure, lower subservicing costs and increase customer satisfaction. No other servicer has been more highly decorated with top servicing awards from all three agencies (Fannie, Freddie, and HUD) over the past two years. We can onboard your portfolio (no matter the size) in 90 days or less, and a recent client saw a 70 percent reduction in complaints in the first 6 months after switching to PHH. What are you waiting for? Start 2024 by reaching out to Chris Sabbe today and let PHH help you reach your goals in the new year!”

Maximize your return on every loan with better secondary pricing and industry-leading technology. Now more than ever, lenders need solutions that allow scale while reducing operational costs and increasing revenue per loan. With Maxwell Capital, lenders can access competitive secondary market pricing on a wide array of products, including non-QM and jumbo, and full-service fulfillment support on both wholesale and mini correspondent offerings. Plus, Maxwell Capital customers gain access to Maxwell Point of Sale, a digital mortgage platform with built-in business intelligence to track and benchmark performance. Schedule a call with Maxwell today and start doing more for your bottom line.

“Processor & Underwriter Automation: Zoral’s automation platform delivers amazingly accurate results in record time! Improve processing and underwriting turn times from days to minutes. Zoral analyses, calculates, and compares LOS data to document data. Dynamic notifications and conditions provide your team with a concise roadmap of what is needed on every loan, at every milestone, all the way to CTC. Our engines accurately categorize, analyze, and calculate eligible income from all income sources, including 3rd party providers such as Account Check. Bank statements are analyzed to identify EMD, cash to close, large deposits, recurring debits, and credits etc. For the past 20 years, Zoral has been creating the most advanced, AI powered, automation solutions anywhere in the world. Our proprietary solutions are designed and built in-house and rapidly implemented. Stop messing with headcount at every turn of the market. Zoral’s automation platform will provide the elasticity to handle even the most unpredictable environments. To learn more about our automation solutions for mortgage, contact Peter Sandler.”

As we usher in the Year of the Wood Dragon, a mythical creature thought to signify unprecedented opportunities, the folks at Down Payment Resource (DPR) contend 2024 also will be the Year of Down Payment Assistance, with DPA offering unprecedented opportunities for lenders to qualify more homebuyers. DPR has been in the business since 2008, amassing a national database of 2,200+ verified DPA programs. As the original keepers of all things DPA, DPR makes it easy for lenders to match otherwise qualified applicants to assistance programs across the United States. DPA can help you qualify more buyers, especially LMI and minority buyers, reduce declined loan numbers and make you a strong contender for referrals and repeat business. That’s an unprecedented opportunity for 2024 you shouldn’t pass up. Need more info? Meet with Tani Lawrence at MBA IMB (Feb. 22-24) or schedule a virtual demo.

Partnering with the right subservicer can make the difference in growing your business and staying a step ahead of a dynamic mortgage market. LoanCare®, one of the nation’s top subservicers, can help you better manage and grow your portfolio in 2024 and beyond. We’ve serviced loans for banks, credit unions, independent mortgage companies, and portfolio investors for over 40 years with solutions for any servicing scenario. We’ll be at the MBA IMB Conference in New Orleans Jan. 22-24, contact us to learn why now is the right time to make LoanCare your servicing partner. And don’t miss Jerry McCoy, EVP, Performance Management at LoanCare speak on the conference panel, “Uncover the Hidden Financial Risks & Rewards in Your Servicing,” on Tuesday, January 23 at 1:30 p.m.

Broker & correspondent loan products

“Expanding your Non-QM products and liquidity options with eRESI Mortgage has never been easier. Come see what other eRESI correspondent partners tap into, whether it’s our industry-leading pricing or fast turnaround times, all while gaining direct access to our long-term capital base. Our partners often rely on our experience as a seasoned loan investor with a highly experienced leadership team dedicated solely to your success. We provide access to a streamlined technology platform, a full suite of Non-QM products (including Full Doc, Bank Statement, and DSCR), and a credit team that understands individual needs. We are also thrilled to announce the launch of our Closed-End Second Lien product, allowing borrowers to access their equity without having to refinance their existing loan. To learn how we can help you grow your business, contact your eRESI representative or email our Business Development team to get started (Contact)!”

“Welcome 2024 with AFR Wholesale®, where we see a golden opportunity for prospective homeowners to achieve their dreams. We invite dedicated professionals like you to join us in expanding your business horizons. Why include AFR in your New Year’s resolutions? 1. Empower Borrowers: Our comprehensive suite of services is designed to empower your borrowers, from flexible financing options to personalized support. 2. Grow Your Business: Partnering with AFR means tapping into a wealth of resources and expertise. Our collaborative approach is tailored to support your growth, ensuring you have the tools and support needed to reach new heights. 3. Optimism/Strategic Planning: Making AFR a part of your 2024 journey means joining a community dedicated to success, innovation, and excellence. Let’s make 2024 extraordinary together! Happy New Year! Ready to partner with AFR? Visit www.afrwholesale.com, contact [email protected], or call 1-800- 375-6071 today.”

There is a signalman up in Shasta County, California. He really wants to get a promotion, so he sends a letter to Union Pacific, and they send up an assessor.

He asks him what he would do if two trains were barreling down a track at each other.

The signalman says he would put one train on a passing loop.

“But what if the points are jammed?”

“I would throw the emergency switch”

“But what if the switch is on fire?”

“I would run out and use the lever on the line to switch the train into the passing loop.”

“But what if it was struck by lightning?”

“Then I’d get my uncle Frank.”

“Why?”

“He’s never seen a train crash!”

 Download our mobile app to get alerts for Rob Chrisman’s Commentary.

Source: mortgagenewsdaily.com

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Even Narrower Sideways Grind; No Reaction to Auction

By:
Matthew Graham

Tue, Jan 9 2024, 4:28 PM

Even Narrower Sideways Grind; No Reaction to Auction

Friday’s trading session set a reasonably wide range relative to the past few weeks. It also set the highest yields of the past few weeks.  But things have gotten increasingly sideways since then.  Yesterday’s entire range was well inside Friday’s.  Now today’s range is well inside yesterday’s.  What does it all mean?  There are only so many conclusions to draw from a sideways, increasingly narrow trend.  “Indecision” is the most obvious conclusion and that would stand to reason with December’s CPI coming out on Thursday morning.  This week’s Treasury auction cycle has some potential to to increase volatility, but that was not the case after today’s 3yr auction (essentially no reaction).

    • NFIB Biz Optimism
      • 91.9 vs 90.7 f’cast, 90.6 prev
    • IBD Econ Optimism
      • 44.7 vs 42.0, 40 prev

10:23 AM

sideways to slightly weaker overnight, but buyers in charge early.  10yr down 2.5bps to 4.004.  MBS up 1 tick (0.03).

01:25 PM

No major reaction to 3yr Treasury auction (reasonably strong).  10yr down 1.4bps on the day at 4.015.  MBS down 2 ticks (.06).

04:08 PM

Still super flat into the close.  MBS down 1 tick (.03). 10yr down 1bp at 4.019.

 Download our mobile app to get alerts for MBS Commentary and streaming MBS and Treasury prices.

Source: mortgagenewsdaily.com

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Home » Make Money » What is Stan Store?

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  • Updated: January 9, 2024
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Our expert reviewers review our articles and recommend changes to ensure we are upholding our high standards for accuracy and professionalism.

Our expert reviewers hold advanced degrees and certifications and have years of experience with personal finances, retirement planning and investments.

Initially, when my wife introduced me to Stan Store, I wasn’t impressed.

It seemed illogical to pay $30 a month for software that just offered a basic sales page, especially without any integrated email service provider.

This was a stark contrast to my experience with platforms like ConvertKit, where I started with a free account until my subscriber count grew large enough where I had to pay.

As I spent more time with Stan Store, my perspective began to shift. I realized that for someone completely new to online marketing, who might be overwhelmed by the complexities of building and creating a landing or sales page, Stan Store could actually make a lot of sense.

It’s tailored for beginners, offering them a straightforward entry point into the world of digital marketing.

Who is Stan Store For?

So, who’s going to love Stan Store? Pretty much anyone aiming to make a buck online through digital products or services. If you’re like me, trying to turn those ‘link in bio’ clicks into actual sales, then Stan Store is your go-to.

Let me break it down for you. Stan Store is a hit with a wide range of creators and businesses, but from my experience, it’s a total game-changer for:

  • Content Creators, Influencers, Micro-influencers, and UGC Creators
  • Instagrammers, TikTokers, YouTubers, X’rs
  • Online Coaches, Mentors, and Teachers
  • Digital Product Creators (Etsy, you’ve got competition)
  • Social Media Managers and Content Managers
  • Designers, Freelancers, and Small Digital Businesses

And hey, even if you’re in the business of selling physical goods, Stan Store can be a killer tool for growing your email list or hosting online events.

Just a heads up though – selling physical products directly through Stan Store isn’t on the table just yet.

How Does Stan Store Work?

Picture this: I’m on TikTok or Instagram Stories, chatting about my latest digital product – let’s say it’s an eBook or a PDF.

In the past, I’d direct my followers to the ‘link in my bio’, which would then send them off to another site, like my website. There, they’d have to play detective to find the product I was talking about, or sit through endless page loads.

But with Stan Store, things get a whole lot smoother. The ‘link in my bio’ is now the store itself. Followers can hit that link, buy what they want right there and then, without being shunted off to a different site.

The best part? They can hop right back to Instagram or TikTok without feeling like they ever left. It’s all about keeping it simple and seamless – and that’s what Stan Store nails perfectly.

Here’s a screenshot of my wife’s personal Stan Store:

We’re still not a big fan of their email signup process so for now our opt-in page (squeeze page) is hosted on Kajabi.

But my wife is selling our Digital Product Quickstart Guide on Stan Store. Here’s how the sales page looks:

Behind the scenes of our sales page is a payment processor and the ability to deliver the digital product with ease. That’s what makes Stan Store so attractive. You can literally start selling your very own digital product in a matter of minutes.

Why Stan Store Stands Out

What truly sets Stan Store apart is its efficiency – you can begin selling your own digital products in just a matter of minutes.

Stan Store Features Overview

Stan Store is packed with features designed to make the life of a digital creator easier and more profitable. Whether you’re a coach, influencer, or digital product creator, here’s what Stan Store brings to the table:

  • Mobile & Desktop Optimized Store: Your store looks great and works seamlessly on any device, ensuring a smooth shopping experience for your audience.
  • Calendar Invites & Bookings Product: Easily manage appointments and bookings directly through your store.
  • Analytics: Get insights into your store’s performance to make data-driven decisions.
  • Unlimited Course Products: Offer as many courses as you like, with no restrictions.
  • 1-Tap Checkout: A streamlined checkout process that makes purchasing a breeze for your customers.
  • Recurring Subscription Products: Ideal for memberships and ongoing services, this feature allows for regular income.
  • Audience/Newsletter Builder: Grow your audience and keep them engaged with integrated newsletter tools.

Stan Store Plans: Creator vs. Creator Pro

Creator Plan

The Creator plan, priced at $29 per month (or $300 per year with a 20% discount), is an excellent starting point for anyone looking to jumpstart their online business. It includes all the essential tools you need:

  • Mobile & Desktop Optimized Store
  • Calendar Invites & Bookings Product
  • Analytics
  • Unlimited Course Products
  • 1-Tap Checkout
  • Recurring Subscription Products
  • Audience/Newsletter Builder

This plan is perfect for creators who are just beginning to monetize their online presence and need a comprehensive, yet straightforward set of tools to get started.

Creator Pro Plan

For those ready to take their business to the next level, the Creator Pro plan is available at $99 per month (or $948 per year with a 20% discount). It includes everything in the Creator plan, plus advanced features for optimizing conversions and offering more to your customers:

  • Advanced Pricing & Payment Plans
  • Discount Codes
  • Limit Quantity
  • Payment Plans
  • Order Bumps & Upsells
  • Funnel Builder
  • Affiliate Share Feature
  • Email Marketing

The Creator Pro plan is tailored for creators who are looking to expand their offerings, optimize their sales process, and engage more deeply with their audience.

Benefits of Using Stan Store

Convenience and Accessibility

The convenience and accessibility of Stan Store are what eventually changed my initial skepticism. The platform allows anyone, regardless of their technical skill, to quickly set up a landing or sales page.

This ease of use is a crucial factor for many users, especially those who lack the time or technical expertise to navigate more complex systems.

Competitive Pricing and Deals

The initial pricing, though seemingly high, is justified by the platform’s simplicity and effectiveness, particularly for its target audience – the absolute beginner in online marketing. The recent addition of an email service provider at a higher tier adds more value, making it a more comprehensive tool.

Drawbacks of Stan Store

Limitations in Product Availability

One of the criticisms I had of Stan Store was its limited range of features. While its simplicity is its strength, it also means that users looking for more advanced features might find Stan Store lacking. This limitation can be a significant drawback for users as their businesses and marketing skills evolve.

Stan Store Alternatives

In the journey of online entrepreneurship, it’s crucial to explore various platforms to see what aligns best with your business needs. While Stan Store has been a solid choice for me, I’ve also had experiences with other platforms worth mentioning:

  • Shopify: Shopify is a robust platform for creating online stores. It’s feature-rich and offers a lot of flexibility for those looking to build a detailed and extensive online shop.
  • WooCommerce: Ideal for WordPress users, WooCommerce seamlessly integrates with your existing site, transforming it into a fully functional e-commerce platform. It’s versatile but can be a bit complex, especially for beginners.
  • Etsy: Etsy is the go-to marketplace for unique, handmade, or vintage items. It’s less about building your own store and more about joining a vibrant, existing marketplace.
  • Teachable and Thinkific: Both are excellent for creating and selling online courses. They offer a range of tools tailored for educators and coaches, focusing on course creation and student engagement.
  • Gumroad: Simple and straightforward, Gumroad is perfect for independent creators selling digital products like books, music, or art directly to their audience.
  • Kajabi: Kajabi is an all-in-one platform offering tools for online courses, marketing, and website building. It’s ideal for those offering educational content and looking for a comprehensive solution.

Comparison Table: Stan Store vs. Alternatives

Feature/Platform Stan Store Shopify WooCommerce Etsy Teachable/Thinkific Gumroad Kajabi
Customization Moderate High High Low Moderate Low High
Ease of Use High Moderate Moderate High High High Moderate
Target Audience Creators General Retail WordPress Users Artisans Educators Independent Creators Educators/Marketers
Product Type Digital All Types All Types Handmade/Vintage Courses Digital Products Courses/Marketing
Pricing Model Subscription Subscription Free (Plugin) Transaction Fees Subscription Transaction Fees Subscription

This table gives a quick overview of how Stan Store compares with its alternatives in terms of customization, ease of use, target audience, product type, and pricing model. Each platform has its strengths, and the best choice depends on your specific business needs and goals.

Is Stan Store Worth it?

After diving deep into Stan Store and comparing it with its alternatives, the big question remains: Is Stan Store worth it? Based on my experience and the insights I’ve gathered, my answer leans towards a yes, especially for a specific audience.

Stan Store stands out for its sheer simplicity and focus on digital content creators. If you’re just starting out or find yourself overwhelmed by the complexities of more advanced platforms, Stan Store offers a welcoming and straightforward path. The ease of setting up a sales or landing page, combined with the platform’s focus on digital products, makes it an attractive option for creators who want to monetize their content without the hassle.

The pricing, initially a point of skepticism for me, actually makes sense when you consider the target audience and the features offered. For beginners and those not ready to navigate the complexities of platforms like Shopify or WooCommerce, Stan Store’s $29 monthly fee for the Creator plan is a reasonable investment.

And for those looking to scale up, the Creator Pro plan, despite its higher price, brings in advanced features that could justify the cost as your business grows. If you’re not sure Stan Store is a good fit, the 14-day free trial might be exactly what you need.

Bottom Line – Stan Store Honest Review

In conclusion, while Stan Store might not be the one-size-fits-all solution for every online entrepreneur, it certainly has carved out its niche. It’s a platform that understands and caters to the needs of digital content creators, making it a worthwhile consideration for those in its target demographic.

As with any tool, it’s about finding the right fit for your specific needs, and for many creators, Stan Store could be just that.

To try Stan Store for free, click here for a 14-day trial.

FAQ – FAQs- Stan Store Review

Stan Store is best suited for digital content creators, including online coaches, influencers, micro-influencers, UGC creators, and digital product creators. It’s also a great fit for anyone looking to streamline their ‘link in bio’ to convert followers into customers.

Stan Store seamlessly integrates with social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok. The integration allows creators to direct their social media audience straight to their Stan Store via a ‘link in bio’, facilitating immediate purchases without leaving the social media app.

Stan Store is designed with simplicity in mind, making it extremely user-friendly for beginners. The platform’s intuitive interface allows for easy navigation and quick setup, even for those with little to no technical background.

Stan Store has two pricing plans: the Creator Plan at $29 per month or $300 annually, and the Creator Pro Plan at $99 per month or $948 annually, with each plan catering to different levels of business needs.

About the Author

Jeff Rose, CFP® is a Certified Financial Planner™, founder of Good Financial Cents, and author of the personal finance book Soldier of Finance. He was a financial planner for 16+ years having founded, Alliance Wealth Management, a SEC Registered Investment Advisory firm, before selling it to focus on his passion – educating the masses on the importance of financial freedom through this blog, his podcast, and YouTube channel.

Jeff holds a Bachelors in Science in Finance and minor in Accounting from Southern Illinois University – Carbondale. In addition to his CFP® designation, he also earned the marks of AAMS® – Accredited Asset Management Specialist – and CRPC® – Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor.

While a practicing financial advisor, Jeff was named to Investopedia’s distinguished list of Top 100 advisors (as high as #6) multiple times and CNBC’s Digital Advisory Council.

Jeff is an Iraqi combat veteran and served 9 years in the Army National Guard. His work is regularly featured in Forbes, Business Insider, Inc.com and Entrepreneur.

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Apache is functioning normally

Lots at Stake With Friday’s Jobs Report

By:
Matthew Graham

Thu, Jan 4 2024, 3:30 PM

Lots at Stake With Friday’s Jobs Report

Thursday’s trading session provided an unpleasant but worthwhile reminder that “data dependence” cuts both ways in terms of its impact on the bond market.  Yesterday’s session saw weaker data help rates avoid a break above 4% while today’s data arguably did the opposite.  None of the above was a very big deal in the bigger picture, but Friday’s jobs report certainly has the power to change the tone if it falls far enough from forecast.

    • ADP Employment
      • 164k vs 115k f’cast, 101k prev
    • Jobless Claims
      • 202k vs 216k f’cast, 220k prev

08:34 AM

Weaker overnight, led by Europe.  More selling after data.  10yr up 7bps at 3.989.  MBS down 10 ticks (.31).

12:20 PM

Slightly choppy, but mostly sideways all morning.  MBS down 9 ticks (.28).  10yr up 7.3bps at 3.993.

02:19 PM

MBS are now down to the weakest levels of the day with 5.5 coupons down 3/8ths in total. 10yr yields are near their highs, up 8.1bps at 4.001.

 Download our mobile app to get alerts for MBS Commentary and streaming MBS and Treasury prices.

Source: mortgagenewsdaily.com

Apache is functioning normally

Where you live can play a major role in how enjoyable your retirement is. So, where do the happiest retirees reside? To determine which cities in the U.S. are the happiest places to retire, we studied the 200 largest metropolitan statistical areas (MSAs) using the latest U.S. Census Bureau population estimates, and consulted multiple sources, including the Sharecare Community Well-Being Index, Tax Foundation, Walk Score, Sperling’s Best Places, and County Health Rankings & Roadmaps.

By identifying key elements that contribute to happiness — social networks, financials, and health — and examining 13 pivotal rankings within them, such as community, cost of living, and healthcare access, we created the Happiest Places to Retire in the U.S. in 2024. Read on to learn about the 20 best places to retire in the U.S. to help you explore your options for where to live in retirement.

Key Findings on Retirees’ Favorite Cities

•   Barnstable, MA is the happiest city to retire to, ranking #1 of all 200 cities we analyzed. It has the highest ranking overall for community well-being, and one of the highest percentages of residents who are 65-plus. The other cities at the top of the list: Naples, FL at #2, and Ann Arbor, MI at #3.

•   Colorado has the highest number of happiest cities for retirees on our top 20 list, beating out Florida. Boulder, CO is the #5 happiest city for retirees, and Fort Collins and Denver also made the list.

•   Colder climates are now attracting retirees. Three of our top 5 cities for retirement (Barnstable, MA; Ann Arbor, MI; and Boulder, CO) have average high winter temperatures in the 30s or 40s.

•   Naples, FL residents live the longest. The city has the highest average life expectancy (86.1 years) of all 200 cities we analyzed.

•   Ann Arbor, MI, has the lowest tax burden for retirees on our top 20 list, followed by Myrtle Beach and Charleston in South Carolina. Meanwhile, Akron, OH has the lowest cost of living of the top 20 cities for retirees, 80.8% of the U.S. average.

Top 20 Happiest Cities to Retire

Looking for information on the happiest places to live after retirement? Whether you dream of an ocean breeze or mountain views, you have plenty of cities to consider.

The top 20 happiest cities for retirees offer a broad range of activities, amenities, and resources. They’re also located all across the nation, as shown in this map of the top 10, so you can find a place in the part of the country you’d most like to live in.

1. Barnstable, MA

Coming in at the top of the happiest cities to retire in the U.S. list is Barnstable. Located on Cape Cod, its beachside beauty attracts retirees, making it one of the top three cities for residents 65 and up. While living here can be expensive (the median household income is $91,438) and there’s less access to healthcare than the other top contenders have, residents enjoy a high level of social interaction and plenty of entertainment and activities.

2. Naples, FL

Those who want to live by the water and enjoy warmer weather can head south to Naples. The cost of living in this city is fairly reasonable, and there’s no state personal income tax, which means your retirement savings can go a lot further. Naples also has the highest life expectancy (age 86.1) of all 200 cities we analyzed.

3. Ann Arbor, MI

Want to enjoy city life without the high prices? Ann Arbor, a college town, has plenty of big city amenities at an affordable price point. Another draw for retirees: Ann Arbor residents enjoy the highest level of healthcare access of the cities on our list, and ranks #1 for health overall.

4. Durham, NC

Friendship and social interaction are important in retirement. Durham, one of the top cities to retire in the U.S., offers a strong sense of community and social well-being, according to the data. Residents will find plentiful healthcare in Durham as well. It ranks #2 out of the top 20 for healthcare access.

5. Boulder, CO

If you like to hit the slopes, Boulder may be the ideal location for your retirement years. The city is #3 on the top 20 list for housing and transportation, so you should be able to find the right place to live and get around easily.

6. North Port, FL

North Port is the second Florida city to make the top 20 list of the happiest places to live in the U.S. Community and social connection is high here, and there’s a sizable population of those aged 65 and up, making it easier to meet new friends. It also has one of the lowest tax burdens among the top 20 cities.

7. Olympia, WA

Retirees who want to live affordably on the west coast can check out scenic Olympia, WA. It ranks as #1 in the financial category, which takes into account factors such as cost of living and household income. It’s also one of the best states to retire in for taxes, which can help retirees stretch their savings. Olympia has the lowest number of residents living below the poverty level of all 200 cities we analyzed.

8. San Jose, CA

Retirees in San Jose enjoy the second-highest average life expectancy (after Naples, FL) of the 200 cities we studied, making it one of the top places for a long and healthy retirement. But there’s a tradeoff: The cost of living in San Jose is extremely high: a whopping 231% of the U.S. average.

9. San Luis Obispo, CA

If being in a comfortable environment is one of your top retirement priorities, look no further than San Luis Obispo. Along with San Jose, the city scored the highest level of comfort for retirees on our top 20 cities list, thanks to its temperate weather.

10. Madison, WI

A low average cost of living plus a high median household income ($83,214) make Madison not only one of the happiest places to live in retirement, but also one of the most affordable. In this relatively walkable city, you can save on transportation costs and live a healthier lifestyle.

Recommended: Average Retirement Savings By State

11. Honolulu, HI

Honolulu combines great weather, pristine beaches, and big city living. It gets high scores for comfortable weather and transportation. And Honolulu has some of the highest scores for social factors and community. Retiring in paradise comes at a price, however — namely, the city’s high cost of living (171.5% of the U.S. average).

12. Salisbury, MD

Salisbury, in the Eastern Shore area of Maryland, is a popular place for retirees. More than a quarter of the population is 65 and over, which means you should have plenty of peers to socialize and do activities with.

13. Washington, DC

If you’re interested in history and culture, Washington D.C. might be a good fit. And many of the city’s major attractions are free of charge. The nation’s capital is also the most walkable city on our top 20 list of the happiest places to live after retirement, so you’ll save on transportation as you get your steps in.

14. Portland, ME

In this city on the coast, you can enjoy all that the ocean has to offer plus metropolitan amenities. Portland ranks as one of the best cities to retire in when it comes to community, and it also has abundant options for art, recreation, and entertainment, which can help you stay happily busy in retirement.

15. Myrtle Beach, SC

Retirees settle down in this popular travel destination to take advantage of the reasonable cost of living and low tax burden. They also love the miles of beaches, plentiful golf courses, and comfortable weather. Myrtle Beach has the 4th highest population of people age 65-plus.

16. Harrisburg, PA

The capital city of Pennsylvania is an affordable place to retire. It has a low cost of living, which means the city’s average median income of $73,739 can go farther. Fewer people live below the poverty line here than in many other cities. Retirees can be active here as well: Harrisburg ranks as #2 of our top cities when it comes to walkability.

17. Fort Collins, CO

If you love the great outdoors, this city, located at the foot of the Rocky Mountains, has a lot to offer. All those outside adventures come with some nice health perks: Fort Collins has one of the higher life expectancies of our 20 top cities for retirees.

18. Denver, CO

Where is the happiest place to retire? It might just be the state of Colorado. Denver is the third Colorado city to make the top 20 list of happy places for retirees to live. Denver has a high level of community and social well-being, which could make retirement a lot more fulfilling. It’s very walkable, too, coming in at #5 out of the top 20 in the walking category.

19. Akron, OH

With the lowest cost of living (80.8% of the U.S. average) of the 20 best cities, Akron offers retirees affordability plus many opportunities for social and community connection. That can make it easier to make new friends in retirement.

20. Charleston, SC

A vibrant cultural scene, great food, ocean access, and lovely architecture make Charleston one of the best places to retire in 2024. Charleston ranks #2 for art, recreation, and entertainment out of the 200 cities studied, following only Los Angeles, so you’ll find plenty to do here in your golden years. And the tax burden is one of the lowest on our 20 happiest cities list.

Best Places to Retire for a Happy Retirement

Want to consider some of the different places that could make for a very happy retirement? The map below shows the top five cities out of the 200 analyzed in each of the three key categories that contribute to happiness: social, financial, and health.

200 Cities Studied for Happiest Places to Retire

Reviewing the full list of 200 cities studied for the Happiest Places to Retire can reveal additional great options for retirement. For example, following Naples, FL, the next three cities with the highest life expectancy — San Jose, CA, San Francisco, CA, and New York, NY — are all bustling, well-populated cities that also rank highly for community and social factors. Take a look at what cities across the U.S. have to offer.

Overall Rank City Total Score Social rank Financial Rank Health Rank
1 Barnstable, MA 62.05 1 6 120
2 Naples, FL 61.43 2 18 32
3 Ann Arbor, MI 61.40 64 14 1
4 Durham, NC 57.56 57 13 2
5 Boulder, CO 56.95 21 16 13
6 North Port, FL 56.77 4 37 129
7 Olympia, WA 56.46 32 1 88
8 San Jose, CA 55.52 5 113 7
9 San Luis Obispo, CA 55.18 9 11 41
10 Madison, WI 55.13 84 5 11
11 Honolulu, HI 54.82 7 71 12
12 Salisbury, MD 54.70 11 3 177
13 Washington DC 54.33 23 17 19
14 Portland, ME 53.86 17 35 22
15 Myrtle Beach, SC 53.66 8 20 181
16 Harrisburg, PA 52.39 50 24 24
17 Fort Collins, CO 52.11 34 19 80
18 Denver, CO 52.03 86 9 33
19 Akron, OH 51.64 55 10 69
20 Charleston, SC 51.62 37 55 30
21 Manchester, NH 51.49 47 22 58
22 Seattle, WA 51.44 19 101 15
23 Minneapolis, MN 51.22 48 26 28
24 Richmond, VA 50.56 24 46 40
25 Bridgeport, CT 50.52 25 83 8
26 Daphne, AL 50.50 31 12 171
27 Des Moines, IA 50.49 106 2 158
28 San Francisco, CA 50.42 6 172 4
29 Santa Rosa, CA 50.11 14 81 43
30 Raleigh, NC 50.08 45 42 56
31 Prescott Valley, AZ 49.92 3 118 193
32 Oxnard, CA 49.38 16 78 49
33 Asheville, NC 49.35 10 125 57
34 Bremerton, WA 49.22 22 52 108
35 Boston, MA 49.18 33 139 6
36 Colorado Springs, CO 49.18 95 7 141
37 Pittsburgh, PA 49.14 35 82 47
38 Portland, OR 49.03 58 96 14
39 Hartford, CT 49.02 62 36 16
40 Omaha, NE 49.00 87 25 37
41 St. Louis, MO 48.88 56 73 36
42 Lancaster, PA 48.80 46 48 74
43 Chattanooga, TN 48.79 43 53 122
44 Appleton, WI 48.78 41 30 128
45 Sioux Falls, SD 48.48 92 34 83
46 Salt Lake City, UT 48.42 125 23 25
47 Charlotte, NC 48.40 38 61 90
48 Allentown, PA 48.35 52 43 42
49 Crestview, FL 47.95 61 15 183
50 Cape Coral, FL 47.88 13 119 110
51 New Haven, CT 47.81 73 65 9
52 Austin, TX 47.76 123 40 48
53 San Diego, CA 47.73 27 103 29
54 Peoria, IL 47.60 66 27 91
55 Tucson, AZ 47.56 69 59 67 56 Green Bay, WI 47.33 80 33 92 57 Lexington, KY 47.28 94 79 31 58 Deltonah, FL 47.24 18 58 198 59 Reno, NV 47.08 44 67 117 60 Tyler, TX 47.07 127 28 99 61 Ogden, UT 47.07 101 8 160 62 Santa Cruz, CA 46.99 12 147 27 63 Atlanta, GA 46.97 54 100 60 64 York, PA 46.96 53 49 112 65 Palm Baye, FL 46.89 20 84 182 66 Boise City, ID 46.89 96 32 98 67 Grand Rapids, MI 46.89 140 39 55 68 Cincinnati, OH 46.77 71 74 63 69 Wilmington, NC 46.53 40 105 79 70 Canton, OH 46.52 100 29 131 71 Fargo, ND 46.49 154 21 71 72 Savannah, GA 46.37 107 63 59 73 Provo, UT 46.20 135 4 175 74 Norwich, CT 46.08 49 31 115 75 Roanoke, VA 46.05 28 123 46 76 Baltimore, MD 45.92 29 120 68 77 Philadelphia, PA 45.91 63 109 44 78 Nashville, TN 45.89 99 68 105 79 Anchorage, AK 45.87 136 87 86 80 Indianapolis, IN 45.73 119 44 95 81 Sacramento, CA 45.72 42 98 50 82 Trenton, NJ 45.67 70 110 18 83 Lincoln, NE 45.63 103 38 93 84 Port St. Lucie, FL 45.51 15 126 173 85 Albany, NY 45.48 60 62 38 86 Vallejo, CA 45.16 36 97 89 87 Louisville, KY 45.03 117 47 106 88 Worcester, MA 44.90 82 94 51 89 Virginia Beach, VA 44.90 83 70 64 90 Huntsville, AL 44.81 77 60 142 91 Chicago, IL 44.70 79 107 26 92 Kalamazoo, MI 44.57 149 64 70 93 Poughkeepsie, NY 44.47 90 54 45 94 Spokane, WA 44.35 113 51 111 95 Eugene, OR 44.29 68 108 81 96 Columbia, SC 44.22 105 91 104 97 Kansas City, MO 44.13 75 88 103 98 Phoenix, AZ 43.94 89 104 85 99 Jacksonville, FL 43.71 67 102 152 100 Salinas, CA 43.70 85 86 66 101 Little Rock, AR 43.63 144 80 61 102 Dallas, TX 43.55 130 90 97 103 Cleveland, OH 43.47 139 142 10 104 Greenville, SC 43.41 118 106 75 105 Lansing, MI 43.35 150 56 125 106 Rochester, NY 43.26 114 93 20 107 Cedar Rapids, IA 43.25 104 50 161 108 Winston, NC 43.23 91 116 73 109 Greeley, CO 43.15 141 41 162 110 Detroit, MI 43.15 72 122 116 111 Reading, PA 42.88 76 117 87 112 Fort Wayne, IN 42.52 152 45 168 113 Dayton, OH 42.43 111 95 127 114 Davenport, IA 42.37 110 77 139 115 Atlantic City, NJ 42.26 39 131 100 116 Fayetteville, AR 42.17 122 75 151 117 Santa Maria, CA 42.11 59 134 53 118 Evansville, IN 41.59 161 57 144 119 Knoxville, TN 41.58 74 138 149 120 Oklahoma City, OK 41.21 148 89 150 121 Milwaukee, WI 41.18 98 141 54 122 South Bend, IN 41.14 145 85 167 123 Hagerstown, MD 40.26 81 112 179 124 Columbus, OH 40.23 166 72 137 125 Ocala, FL 40.11 26 153 199 126 Birmingham, AL 39.94 65 159 107 127 Montgomery, AL 39.91 134 92 189 128 Rockford, IL 39.80 143 76 157 129 Pensacola, FL 39.44 133 121 153 130 New York, NY 39.32 51 184 5 131 Syracuse, NY 39.27 137 124 35 132 Killeen, TX 39.26 186 69 114 133 Lynchburg, VA 39.22 155 66 174 134 Buffalo, NY 38.98 128 128 39 135 Wichita, KS 38.67 97 135 163 136 Tallahassee, FL 38.65 147 132 134 137 Providence, RI 38.62 112 167 34 138 Los Angeles, CA 38.60 30 187 23 139 Kennewick, WA 38.45 151 127 123 140 Flint, MI 38.34 171 111 156 141 Orlando, FL 38.33 153 155 72 142 Tulsa, OK 38.31 174 99 169 143 Las Vegas, NV 38.31 121 146 135 144 Salem, OR 38.25 138 130 133 145 Duluth, MN 38.21 116 136 126 146 Erie, PA 37.91 126 137 154 147 Springfield, MA 37.88 115 162 62 148 Hickory, NC 37.71 93 140 194 149 Tampa, FL 37.66 102 174 77 150 Albuquerque, NM 37.59 146 157 65 151 Gainesville, FL 37.58 178 182 3 152 Huntington, WV 37.41 88 161 159 153 Toledo, OH 37.11 168 144 82 154 Scranton, PA 37.05 109 156 143 155 Jackson, MS 36.89 175 148 76 156 Amarillo, TX 36.78 142 149 176 157 Kingsport, TN 36.67 158 133 190 158 Springfield, MO 36.65 164 129 165 159 Youngstown, OH 36.63 78 158 188 160 Houston, TX 35.66 179 164 52 161 Binghamton, NY 35.66 162 114 124 162 Charleston, WV 34.97 132 168 138 163 San Antonio, TX 34.88 184 152 94 164 Waco, TX 34.80 176 143 170 165 Greensboro, NC 34.68 108 175 148 166 Augusta, GA 34.56 120 176 145 167 New Orleans, LA 34.48 172 181 21 168 Utica, NY 34.17 167 115 155 169 Memphis, TN 34.17 182 160 130 170 Lubbock, TX 33.95 183 166 84 171 Lakeland, FL 33.94 124 173 178 172 Stockton, CA 33.82 156 154 146 173 Riverside, CA 33.53 129 169 121 174 Macon, GA 33.03 163 180 101 175 Spartanburg, SC 32.77 131 177 185 176 Longview, TX 31.85 185 150 191 177 Miami, FL 31.74 157 192 17 178 Baton Rouge, LA 31.69 181 170 136 179 College Station, TX 30.49 193 165 96 180 Tuscaloosa, AL 30.35 165 179 180 181 Clarksville, TN 30.17 189 145 200 182 Mobile, AL 29.95 170 185 113 183 Shreveport, LA 29.22 177 191 78 184 Fayetteville, NC 28.42 187 171 184 185 Fort Smith, AR 27.72 159 186 196 186 Beaumont, TX 27.36 197 151 195 187 Gulfport, MS 27.33 173 183 197 188 Fresno, CA 26.58 188 178 119 189 Corpus Christi, TX 26.09 192 189 102 190 Modesto, CA 26.05 169 190 147 191 Visalia, CA 25.28 196 163 166 192 Columbus, GA 24.08 160 193 192 193 Lafayette, LA 23.64 180 196 109 194 Bakersfield, CA 21.84 190 188 186 195 Merced, CA 18.10 191 194 187 196 Yakima, WA 17.32 195 195 164 197 El Paso, TX 8.56 194 198 118 198 McAllen, TX 3.30 200 197 132 199 Brownsville, TX 2.10 198 199 140 200 Laredo, TX -3.32 199 200 172

Tips for a Happy Retirement

You’ve worked hard, now it’s time to enjoy yourself! These smart strategies can help you find happiness in retirement.

•   Create a budget. You may have fewer expenses when you’re retired, but you’ll still need a roadmap for managing them. This is where retirement planning and a budget come in handy. If you are already retired, create a budget that works well for your retirement income. If retirement is still in the future, map out a plan to see how much you’ll need to save to be properly prepared.

•   Keep tabs on your retirement savings. Don’t forget to check on your retirement savings regularly to ensure that you’re on track financially. And, of course, make sure you have retirement savings accounts like a 401(k) or a traditional or Roth IRA to help you reach your goal.

Don’t yet have a retirement account? Learn how to set up your own retirement account.

•   Prioritize health and wellness. To be at your best, strongest, and happiest in retirement, prioritize your physical and mental health with regular exercise, a balanced diet, and lots of social interaction.

•   Pursue your passions. Don’t let retirement slow you down. You can pursue your favorite hobbies, work on fulfilling and meeting your top ambitions and challenges, and do the activities you’ve always wanted to try now that you have the time and freedom for them. When choosing among the best retirement cities, be sure to look for places that cater to your interests.

Methodology

To find the happiest cities for people to retire in the U.S., we looked at the 200 largest metropolitan statistical areas (MSAs) based on the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2022 population estimates for 13 ranking factors across three categories (Social, Finance, and Health).

We graded each factor on a 100-point scale, where 100 was the highest possible score. Each factor was weighted differently.

Socioeconomic Score Factors

•   Community well-being

•   Social well-being

•   Comfort index*

•   Percentage of population age 65 and over

•   Percentage of art, recreation, and entertainment businesses

Financial Score Factors

•   Housing & transportation

•   Cost of living index*

•   Median household income

•   Percentage of people aged 65 and over living below poverty level

•   Tax burden**

Health Score Factors

•   Healthcare access

•   Life expectancy

•   Walk Score*

*Data represents city proper data (excluding surrounding metro).
**Data represents state level data.

Sources: U.S Census Bureau, Sharecare Community Well-Being Index, Walk Score, Tax Foundation, County Health Rankings & Roadmaps, Sperling’s Best Places.

The Takeaway

When you’re ready to retire, choosing where to settle down is a big and important decision. Exploring our list of top 20 happiest places is a great place to start. You can look for cities that offer affordability, good access to healthcare, entertainment and cultural activities, and opportunities for making social and community connections.

And to ensure that your retirement is as happy and stress-free as possible, you’ll want to have your retirement savings in order. Contributing to your 401(k) or IRA can help you build the retirement nest egg you’ll need.

Ready to invest in your goals? It’s easy to get started when you open an investment account with SoFi Invest. You can invest in stocks, exchange-traded funds (ETFs), and more. SoFi doesn’t charge commissions, but other fees apply (full fee disclosure here).

Invest with as little as $5 with a SoFi Active Investing account.

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Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

SoFi Invest®
SoFi Invest refers to the two investment and trading platforms operated by Social Finance, Inc. and its affiliates (described below). Individual customer accounts may be subject to the terms applicable to one or more of the platforms below.

1) Automated Investing and advisory services are provided by SoFi Wealth LLC, an SEC-registered investment adviser (“SoFi Wealth“). Brokerage services are provided to SoFi Wealth LLC by SoFi Securities LLC.

2) Active Investing and brokerage services are provided by SoFi Securities LLC, Member FINRA(www.finra.org)/SIPC(www.sipc.org). Clearing and custody of all securities are provided by APEX Clearing Corporation.

For additional disclosures related to the SoFi Invest platforms described above, including state licensure of SoFi Digital Assets, LLC, please visit SoFi.com/legal.

Neither the Investment Advisor Representatives of SoFi Wealth, nor the Registered Representatives of SoFi Securities are compensated for the sale of any product or service sold through any SoFi Invest platform. Information related to lending products contained herein should not be construed as an offer or pre-qualification for any loan product offered by SoFi Bank, N.A.

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Source: sofi.com

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Stash is an app for both Android and iOS that was born out of the simple question: Why don’t more people invest their money? This seemingly simple question can have a myriad of answers depending on who you ask.

Stash tries to overcome these obstacles with a well-designed app that provides easily understood solutions without breaking the bank.

For many, the barrier for entry for investing in stocks can be incredibly high. Whether it’s high minimum investments or hefty fees, many people find that investing is not affordable. Moreover, it can also be incredibly confusing.

There’s a lot of jargon out there, and many people don’t know the difference between a stock and a bond, let alone how to read a stock ticker. The Stash app aims to solve both of these issues by making investing both affordable and accessible.

Intrigued? Keep reading to learn more.

Why is investing important?

Before we talk about why to invest with Stash, let’s briefly talk about why you should invest at all. Whether you know it or not, if you have a job, you are already likely investing a portion of your money.

Thanks to President Franklin D. Roosevelt, who signed the Social Security Act in 1935 following the Great Depression, a portion of our payroll tax is allocated towards securing retirement benefits. Both employees and employers contribute to this system, with each paying a percentage of an employee’s paycheck into Social Security to ensure future retirement benefits.

Social Security is designed as a safety net for the elderly and the disabled. It is relied upon by millions of Americans as a portion of income once reaching retirement age.

According to a study by the Economic Policy Institute, almost half of Americans have no retirement savings other than Social Security. Predictably, low-income families are disproportionately affected by this trend.

Due to an inability to afford to save money and a lack of understanding of investment options, a large portion of our population is unprepared for their future. But it doesn’t have to be this way, and Stash is on its way to bridging the investment gap in America.

What Stash Does Differently

While Stash Invest is not the only low fee, easy to use investment app on the market, they educate their customers and show them how to invest and save money. This app is not designed for the seasoned investor.

The premise is for Stash to provide you with access to exchange-traded funds (ETFs), which are investment funds that allow you to buy a portion of stocks through a portfolio.

Signing up for Stash is not as easy as just signing in with Facebook. One of the main complaints about the app in Google Play is the invasive information they request. This includes banking information, your address, and even your Social Security number.

While it’s not usually recommended to hand out this type of information to an app on your phone, Stash is bound by federal law, including the Patriot Act, to collect this information.

It is a necessary evil, unfortunately, but one mitigated by the fact that they use 256-bit encryption and your securities are protected up to $500,000. Additional security features include a PIN of your choosing that you must enter every time you open the app.

This is beneficial whether your phone is stolen or your toddler is button mashing your phone while playing angel investor.

Stash’s Key Features

  • Minimum investment: $5
  • Fees: As little as $1 per month if you choose the beginner plan
  • Accounts offered: Traditional IRAs, Roth IRAs, checking account
  • Other benefits: The mobile app is available on iOS and Android phones
  • Promotions: You can get $5 for free for signing up with Stash

Understanding Pricing

Stash offers three different pricing models, depending on where you’re at in your investing journey. Here is a brief overview of each:

PLAN BEGINNER GROWTH STASH+
Cost $1 per month $3 per month $9 per month
Personal Investment
Account		 x x x
Debit Card x x x
Rewards program x x x
Online Resources x x x
Tax Benefits x x
Investment Account for
Two Children		 x
Exclusive Metal Debit Card
with Cashback Rewards		 x
Monthly Market Insights x

How Stash Works

When you first sign up for Stash, you’ll be asked about your investing style. You can choose from conservative, moderate, or aggressive. This helps tailor your portfolio options based on the amount of risk, and potential return, that is acceptable to you.

Determining your risk tolerance is only one way Stash helps you choose your investment strategy. Next, they’ll ask you how much and how often you’d like to invest. You can choose to invest as little as $5 at a time on a weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly schedule.

Knowledge is Power

While we know that you didn’t install Stash just for the articles, there is a wealth of knowledge to be found here. Under the “Learn” section of the drop-down menu are dozens of well-written articles designed to teach you how to invest. Stash is designed for the beginner, and these articles can show you the ins and outs of an investment strategy.

From “What’s a Capital Gain?” to “How to Invest Like an Activist,” Stash spends a great deal of time into turning you into an investment professional. Many people choose apps like Stash because of their simple-to-use nature, and set-it and leave-it design.

This is great for those dipping their toes in for the first time, but Stash realizes that you may want to be more than just a casual investor. Think of it as a bootcamp for the uninitiated.

Whether you want to learn what interest rate hikes mean to you or better understand certain investment portfolios, Stash allows you to invest your time to learn as well as your money to earn.

Stash Retire

While Stash has some heavy hitters behind it, it’s still only two years old and a bit of a one-trick pony.

However, Stash is now in the process of launching Stash Retire, which will add Roth IRAs into the mix. A Roth IRA is an individual retirement account that, as long as you meet certain criteria, is not taxed when you start to make withdrawals.

This option from Stash is still in development and while they appear to be reaching certain milestones, it is not yet available.

Still, it’s an indication that Stash is growing. Couple that with Stash’s latest funding round, which saw investment from PayPal co-founder Peter Thiel, it’s easy to assume that Stash is here to stay.

Stash Custodial

You can open a custodial investment account for kids under 18 years old. Stash Custodial can be used by the child once they reach adulthood, which can be anywhere between 18 and 25, depending on the state in which they live.

There’s no limit to your annual contributions, and it doesn’t have to be used for education. The money can be invested in stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and ETFs.

Who should invest with Stash?

Overall, Stash Invest is designed to help the would-be investor. If you have money sitting in a savings account or if you’re just starting to think about your future, Stash is a great place to start investing. They make it easy to put money into portfolios that are of interest to you. They are also adept at making the confusing world of finance and investing easy to understand.

With the inclusion of a plethora of articles designed to teach you about investing, it’s also a great place to learn. Use it not just to easily invest your money, but as a resource that allows you to grow your knowledge with your money.

Stash’s simplified fee structure can be a low gateway into the world of investing. Your first two months are free, and they only charge $1 per month up to $5,000 and .025% above that number.

This is pricey if you are just starting out. If you’re investing $5 per month, that’s 20% of your investment in the beginning. Stash can be a great option if you can get your balance higher before they start charging you fees.

Bottom Line

All in all, Stash is a great app for the beginning investor. There are certainly better options out there for people already familiar with investing, but with over half of Americans having no investment at all, it could be a great start for you.

Stash is also growing and beginning to offer more investment options such as Stash Retire, so they may grow with you. If not, use Stash as a learning tool and springboard into the heady world of investment finance.

Source: crediful.com

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ISM Outshines NFP, But Neither Ended Up Leaving a Mark

By:
Matthew Graham

Fri, Jan 5 2024, 5:17 PM

ISM Outshines NFP, But Neither Ended Up Leaving a Mark

It has happened before, but it’s not common: those Fridays where bonds move in one direction in response to the jobs report only to move even more in the opposite direction after the ISM Non-Manufacturing Index.  Considering that both moves were ultimately erased today, we don’t feel too compelled to overanalyze, but ISM definitely had the upper hand.  Chalk that up to the jobs report being not as strong as the headline might suggest and to ISM’s employment component being staggeringly weaker. Bonds escaped with minimal damage–especially MBS as they don’t have to worry about an auction cycle like Treasuries next week.

    • Nonfarm Payrolls
      • 216k vs 170k f’cast, 173k prev
    • Unemployment Rate
      • 3.7% vs 3.8% f’cast
    • Participation rate
      • down 0.3% (implies higher unemployment)
    • ISM Services PMI
      • 50.6 vs 52.6 f’cast, 52.7 prev
    • ISM Services Employment 
      • lowest since July 2020
    • ISM Service Prices
      • 57.4 vs 58.3 prev

08:57 AM

Weaker overnight with additional selling after jobs report.  Some resilience now.  MBS back to pre-NFP levels, down a quarter point on the day.  10yr up only 5bps at 4.055 after being as high as 4.10

10:11 AM

More gains after ISM data.  10yr down 4.5bps at 3.959.  MBS up 1 tick (0.03).

12:35 PM

post-ISM rally fading.  10yr up 3.2bps at 4.036 and MBS down nearly an eighth of a point.

02:14 PM

Holding ground now, slightly better than the early PM swoon.  MBS down only 2 ticks (.06) and 10yr up 2.3bps at 4.027.

05:13 PM

MBS outperform into the close, ultimately hitting unchanged levels as Treasuries ticked up 4.7bps to 4.051.  Apprehension over next week’s auction cycle?  Curve steepening favoring shorter durations?  Either way we’ll take it.

 Download our mobile app to get alerts for MBS Commentary and streaming MBS and Treasury prices.

Source: mortgagenewsdaily.com