SoFi Blog

Good Data, Bad Geopolitics, and Exchange Rates
Asset prices remained relatively flat over the past month, caught between the push of positive economic data on equities and the pull of geopolitical tensions. While North Korea’s nuclear threats sent equities and interest rates down, we see these events subsiding without major implications for global markets. In determining where the markets will go over the next few months, it’s important to take a look at the interaction between economic data, central bank policy, exchange rates, and equity prices.

In recent posts, we’ve talked about the difficult situation currently facing central bankers. Their mandates essentially require them to begin raising interest rates just when the market’s starting to take off in order to curb inflation. It’s like the host taking away the punch bowl just when the party’s really getting started.

Good news, America. After nearly a decade, credit scores have hit record highs, according to new data from Fair, Isaac, as reported in the Wall Street Journal (paywall). The average score in the U.S. hit 700 this past April, and haven’t been at that level since 2005.

You filled out a job application, went through a few rounds of interviews, and you’re this close to securing the new job. But there’s just one hurdle left—the dreaded salary conversation.

I get it: Talking about money is uncomfortable. You might be worried they’ll pass if you go too high, or you’ll regret it if you go too low. But how do you know when you’ve hit that sweet spot and are asking for just the right amount?

When it comes time to talk money at the negotiation table, there’s a new law that could affect your next job interview. Namely, starting in New York City, Philadelphia, and the state of Massachusetts, employers can no longer ask what income you made at your previous job. (And luckily, more cities and states are following suit.) For job seekers, this is great news, and should ease some of the anxiety of figuring out how to negotiate your compensation package. Withholding current salary information can be a good way to make sure you’re not pigeonholed into a particular range when asking for a higher number.

A duchess once said: “You can never be too thin or too rich.” Many people would disagree with the first part, but very few would argue with the second. However, while you can’t have too much money, you might have too much cash.

How much cash should you have?