Polling suggests a clear majority of Americans are worried about the economy and their own financial situations. High inflation and rising interest rates are taking their toll.
So what is the one thing personal finance experts would like to see Americans doing more of with their money in 2025? Newsweek put the question to them. Here’s what they said.
Bola Sokunbi, Author/Founder & CEO, Clever Girl Finance
I’d love to see more people investing! Invest consistently, even if you can only afford to do it in small amounts! As the saying goes, building wealth isn’t about timing the market; it’s about time in the market.
So automate your savings and investments, this way you’re building your future on autopilot. And let’s normalize talking about money with friends and family—sharing tips, resources, and goals can help everyone level up together!
Kyla Scanlon, Economic Commentator; Author, “In This Economy?”
Build stronger cash reserves and stronger allocation to markets. Put your money to work—but also make sure that you have three to six months of expenses saved.
Eric Tyson, Best-Selling Author of Personal Finance For Dummies and Investing For Dummies
Invest in diversified funds with a long-term perspective and without concern for the political backdrop which will gradually adjust over time.
Elaine King, Founder and CEO, Family and Money Matters
In 2025, I’d love to see more Americans focus on building generational wealth by creating income-producing assets.
Right now, 68 percent of U.S. households live paycheck to paycheck, but the key to financial security is diversifying income streams—think investments, real estate, or even starting a side business.
Thriving in 2025 means no longer depending on just one job. Instead, it’s about growing assets long-term.
Stock image. Newsweek asked personal finance experts what they want to see Americans do more of with their money in 2025.
Stock image. Newsweek asked personal finance experts what they want to see Americans do more of with their money in 2025.
ohmygouche/iStock/Getty
Tiffany Aliche, Founder, The Budgetnista; Author, Get Good with Money
I’d love to see more people lean into creating a community around their finances.
Americans often think in such an individualistic way that they need to do everything by themselves. I don’t believe personal finances are meant to be done alone.
Set yourself up with an accountability partner, and access to other financial experts like accountants, financial advisors, etc. Create a community around your financial goals, because that is how you create success for yourself financially.
Andy Smith, Executive Director, Financial Planning, Edelman Financial Engines
The most important thing that Americans need to be doing more of is saving for their future. Simply put, they need to be saving as much as they can for as long as they can.
I often remind my clients that in addition to enjoying their retirement years, one of their main objectives is to not be a burden on their family as time goes on.
One of the ways to keep that from happening is to find ways to save more—starting now.
Carolyn McClanahan, Founder, Life Planning Partners; Advisor, CNBC Financial Advisor Council
Take better care of their health. Health issues reduce financial stability and can create a downward spiral in your quality of life and your finances.
Kelli Smith, Director, Financial Planning, Edelman Financial Engines
I would love to see people being more intentional with their budgets and spending in 2025.
I’ve seen how much happier many of my clients are when they prioritize each dollar. It’s a way for them to focus on spending money where it matters most to them and keeps them from being distracted (or jealous) of how others use their money.
The One Thing You Need to Do With Your Money in 2025
