Saturday,
July 29, 2023

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The week in review

•   In his speech following the latest interest rate decision, Chairman Powell underscored the Fed’s commitment to reaching its 2% target. He also reiterated the central bank’s data-driven approach going forward. While committee members still anticipate a final hike before the end of the year, incoming growth, labor, and inflation data will continue to primarily influence future decisions.

•   The S&P Global US Manufacturing PMI increased to 49 in July from a six-month low of 46.3 in June. Although the figure beat forecasts of 46.2, it signaled a third-straight month of contraction in manufacturing activity.

•   The US economy grew at an annualized rate of 2.4% in the second quarter. This figure beat the previous quarter’s 2% and well above estimates of 1.8%. The increase was largely driven by a rise in consumer spending, nonresidential fixed investment, and government spending.

For more economic news, visit On the Money — SoFi’s one-stop-shop for news, trends, and tips!

The Fed is going to get what it wants and we don’t get a vote.

As investors, we’ve wondered for a long time what the appropriate level of rates are to solve the inflation problem without inflicting too much pain on the economy. The Fed wonders the same thing.

Will the latest 25-bps rate hike help to solve the inflation problem? In her column titled “Back in the Hike Life” SoFi’s Head of Investment Strategy, Liz Young, weighs in.


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This week's top stories

Your money transfers could soon be received as quickly as text messages.
The Federal Reserve launched FedNow last week which could change the future of payment transactions.
Read more >>

Much to McLovin’s dismay, the age-old process of flashing a driver’s license to buy alcohol is about to get a high-tech upgrade.
Fingerprint and face ID scanners could start calling the shots at liquor stores and venues. Is this tech a cool convenience or a data disaster?
Read more >>

EVs strike down on used car lots.
In the second quarter, secondhand sales of EVs are up 77% from 2021. There are at least two benefits to buying EVs used. But, for prospective buyers, will lightning strike twice?
Read more >>

Deep dives from SoFi Learn

Is it better to pay off your credit card or keep a balance?
We’ll look at the pros and cons of paying off your credit cards in full versus over time.
Read more >>

If you’re looking for productive things to do on your day off—including ideas that may improve your money mindset and financial fitness—we have 21 good ways to get started.
Not sure what to do on a day off? Consider checking one or more of these productive activities off your to-do list. Any of them can help you feel more organized and in control of your finances…and perhaps even your life!
Read more >>

Whether you’re updating a room or moving into a brand new space, furniture shopping can be an expensive endeavor.
Here are 25 ideas for creating a great space without spending a lot.
Read more >>

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