Alchemy: gold for the gullible

You prepare for retirement by saving and budgeting, but optimizing your Social Security claim is crucial for maximizing your benefits. While you may have a claiming age in mind, there is no universally perfect age to sign up; some ages may be more advantageous depending on individual circumstances. Explain It To Me Like I'm 5: Choosing when to get your Social Security money is important because it can make a big difference in how much...

Throughout 2025, Palantir Technologies (NASDAQ: PLTR) has emerged as a standout stock in the S&P 500, surging 82% amid fluctuating technology markets influenced by economic factors. While bullish analysts like Dan Ives predict its continued ascent towards a trillion-dollar valuation, some, including the author, warn that its current high valuations may lead to a significant correction akin to the dot-com bubble. Explain It To Me Like I'm 5: Palantir is a company that helps people...

Some market moments gain momentum without significant triggers, and Bitcoin (CRYPTO: BTC) appears poised for a significant rally due to four macro forces that historically precede price surges. Increased liquidity from central banks typically encourages investment in riskier assets like cryptocurrencies, as safer investments become overpriced. Explain It To Me Like I'm 5: When banks make more money available, people are more likely to invest in things like Bitcoin, which can help it grow in...

Taiwan Semiconductor (NYSE: TSM) is highlighted as a top investment choice due to its status as the world's leading contract chip manufacturer, essential for nearly every industry. The company is positioned to potentially outperform the market over the long term, making it an ideal single-stock holding for investors. Explain It To Me Like I'm 5: Taiwan Semiconductor makes tiny parts called chips that help many different companies create their products, which is why it's a...

Alphabet (NASDAQ: GOOG, GOOGL) shares dropped nearly 4% at the end of the trading week, significantly underperforming the S&P 500's 0.2% decline, following the European Union's ruling that the company must pay a €4.1 billion ($4.7 billion) fine for limiting search engine competition through its Android system. Alphabet is currently appealing this fine, which stems from a 2018 decision. Explain It To Me Like I'm 5: Alphabet, the company that owns Google, lost money because...

Kroger's shares rose about 10% after the company announced its first-quarter earnings for 2025, reporting adjusted earnings per share of $1.49 and total revenue of $45.1 billion. While revenue slightly missed Wall Street expectations, management upheld its full-year earnings guidance and increased its revenue forecast. Explain It To Me Like I'm 5: Kroger made more money than people thought and told everyone they would continue to do well, which made their stock price go up!...