401(k) Records, Starbucks’ Human Comeback, and Powell’s Rate Cut Dilemma
401(k) savings are soaring to new records, with Fidelity and Vanguard both reporting average contribution rates at or above the 12–15% benchmark, thanks in part to auto-enrollment and employer matches. Starbucks pivots back to the human touch with its “Green Apron” initiative, ditching automation in favor of barista-led service to revive its brand. Meanwhile, Summer Fridays are disappearing as hybrid work reshapes office perks — but workers still want them. A LendingTree survey finds two-thirds of newlyweds went into debt for their weddings, and many regret it, even as honeymoon spending takes priority. Finally, Jerome Powell tells Congress the Fed will “wait and see” on rate cuts, brushing off growing political pressure from President Trump and some central bankers as inflation data remains mixed.
🚀 Loving the show? Leave a 5-star rating & review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube to help more people discover it!
📩 Want to master your money in 5 minutes or less each week? Join the Master Money Newsletter → Sign up here
🎧 Like this show? You'll love our other podcast: The Personal Finance Podcast
📲 Follow Andrew Giancola on Social Media:
🔥 Thanks for tuning in! See you next episode.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
