KCU Investment & Retirement Services

06/01/2026

🎒 Attention students and families 🎒

Don't forget that FAFSA submissions close June 30 at 11:59 p.m. CT.

05/29/2026

👀📊Check out the potential benefits of starting early and saving consistently. With a 529 plan, even modest monthly contributions can grow significantly over time.

Here are a few points to consider:
📚 529 plans are an effective college savings vehicle with potential tax advantages.
📚Any family member can contribute or even set up a plan (Grandparents love this!).
📚Withdrawals for education expenses are federally and usually state tax-free.
📚Under certain conditions, some funds can now be rolled over into a Roth IRA.

Starting early can make a big difference!



A 529 plan is a tax-advantaged college savings plan. Before choosing a plan, it's important to consider not only the state tax treatment, but also any associated fees and expenses. Availability of a state tax deduction will depend on your state of residence, as state tax laws and treatment may vary from federal tax laws. If you make nonqualified distributions, earnings will be subject to income tax and a 10% federal penalty tax.

05/27/2026

Concerns about a potential economic slowdown are gaining attention as several indicators begin to show signs of strain.

Economists have recently increased their estimates for the likelihood of a downturn over the next 12 months. Some projections now place the probability significantly higher than the typical baseline, reflecting growing uncertainty.

Several factors are contributing to these concerns, including rising energy costs, pressure on consumers, and a labor market that has shown limited job growth in most sectors. In fact, job creation remained relatively weak over the past year, with some recent monthly declines.

Consumer sentiment has also softened, with a majority of respondents in one survey expecting a downturn within the next year.

While these trends don’t guarantee a contraction, they highlight how shifts in employment, spending, and global conditions can influence the broader economic outlook.


Source:

Economists have pulled up their risk assessments of a contraction amid heightened uncertainty over geopolitical risk and a labor market slump.

05/25/2026

Memorial Day is a time to pay tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to the United States. They will always be remembered. Wishing you and your loved ones a peaceful Memorial Day holiday.

05/21/2026

The latest Producer Price Index (PPI) report shows a 0.5% increase in wholesale prices in February, signaling ongoing inflationary pressures in the economy.

This rise in producer prices highlights continued supply-chain cost increases, with notable contributions from rising prices for goods and services. The data suggests that inflation remains a key concern for businesses and policymakers as they navigate economic recovery and growth.

As wholesale prices impact consumer costs, understanding these trends is crucial for anticipating market shifts and planning for future economic conditions.



Source:

Wholesale prices rose sharply in February, providing another sign that inflation continues to percolate even aside from rising energy prices.

05/18/2026

A growing number of Americans are carrying credit card balances, highlighting ongoing financial pressure for many households.

Recent data shows that about 50% of credit card holders—roughly 111 million people—currently carry debt, marking a notable increase over the past several years.

At the same time, borrowing costs remain elevated. Average credit card interest rates are now above 23%, making it more expensive for balances to grow over time.

Some households are adjusting by cutting back on discretionary spending, delaying larger purchases, or relying more heavily on credit to cover everyday expenses.

These trends reflect how shifts in costs, interest rates, and income can influence day-to-day financial decisions across a wide range of households.


Source:

About 111 million Americans are carrying credit card balances, a 17% increase in five years, new research shows.

05/14/2026

Some high-earning couples may currently receive $100,000 or more per year in Social Security benefits, based on lifetime earnings and when benefits begin.

A new policy proposal suggests capping those benefits—potentially limiting annual payments to $100,000 for couples and $50,000 for individuals—as one way to address long-term funding challenges.

The idea is one of several being discussed as policymakers consider how to support the program’s future. Current projections indicate that Social Security trust funds may face shortfalls in the coming decade.

It’s important to note that this is not a finalized change, but part of a broader conversation around how to balance sustainability, benefits, and contributions over time.

As discussions continue, proposals like this highlight the range of approaches being considered to address the program’s long-term outlook.


Source:

High-earning couples who consistently pay the maximum into Social Security during their careers stand to get the biggest benefits in retirement.

05/11/2026

When stock prices drop, some investors start asking "shoulda, woulda, coulda” questions about whether to remain invested. But as 2025 illustrates, market timing can be very expensive even if it means missing just a few days.

05/07/2026

When gas prices rise, small changes in driving habits can make a noticeable difference in fuel use.

Experts suggest that driving at steady speeds around 65 mph and avoiding rapid acceleration or braking can help improve efficiency. Using cruise control on highways may also reduce fuel consumption.

Other adjustments can add up over time, including limiting idling, reducing extra weight in your vehicle, and keeping tires properly inflated.

Combining trips, carpooling when possible, and planning routes more efficiently may also help reduce overall fuel use.

While these changes may seem minor, they can help drivers get more out of each tank—especially during periods of higher fuel costs. 🚗


Source:

When gas prices go up, it adds to drivers' pain at the pump. But experts say consumers can do something to stretch their fuel just a little farther — change the way they drive.

05/05/2026

Mortgage demand is showing signs of slowing, even as interest rates moved slightly lower.

Applications for home purchases were 7% lower than the same time last year, marking the first annual decline in over a year. Refinance activity also fell, with applications down compared to both the prior week and last year.

While rates dipped modestly, with the average 30-year fixed rate around 6.5%, broader economic uncertainty continues to influence buyer activity.

Some segments of the market are holding up better than others, particularly where lower-rate loan options or increased housing inventory are available.

These shifts highlight how interest rates, affordability, and market conditions can all play a role in housing demand.


Source:

Weakening consumer sentiment in the overall economy is weighing heavily on mortgage demand from both homeowners and homebuyers.