— The look everyone is going for, according to Pinterest’s 2026 trend report. For when your outfit needs a plot twist.
What's Happening
Economy
Unwrapping the Fed's Latest Move
What's going on: The Fed cut interest rates for the third time in 2025 by a quarter point — a sign that inflation is cooling and a little financial relief could be on the way. This closes out a tense stretch for the Fed: stubborn inflation, a softer job market, internal dissent — and nonstop pressure from President Donald Trump, who loves making Fed Chair Jerome Powell a regular target (worst bromance ever). Trump has vowed to name Powell’s successor early (perhaps before Christmas). The Fed chair, for his part, said he hopes to hand over “the economy in really good shape” when his term ends in May, with inflation at 2% and a strong labor market.
What it means: If you carry a credit card balance — and almost half of us do — this cut could make your interest rate a little less brutal. It won’t erase your holiday bills, but it might help you pay them down faster. The big picture? Make your money work hard for you, and don’t be afraid to shop around. Put your money into a high-yield savings account or CD — and look for one that clears 3% APY. Even though mortgage rates have dipped, don’t expect them to budge much. Now’s not the time to go all in on your Zillow dream home. Your car loan won’t change much, either. Use this time to do your research, reset your money goals, and ring in the new year with your budget in check.
