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How I Realized I Needed to Know My Net Worth—and What It Taught Me

A few years ago, I was scrolling through social media, seeing people flaunt their wealth and wondering, “Am I rich for my age?” I had savings and some investments, but was I truly on track? That’s when I started researching US net worth, median net worth, and tools like the net worth by age calculator. Understanding where I stood compared to others my age gave me clarity and motivation. If you’re asking, “What should my net worth be?” or “Am I rich for my age?” this guide will help you make sense of your financial standing.

What Is Net Worth and Why Does It Matter?

Your net worth is the total value of your assets (like savings, investments, property) minus your liabilities (debts, loans). It’s a snapshot of your financial health and a key indicator of wealth.

• Median net worth represents the middle point where half of people have more and half have less.
• Average net worth can be skewed by very wealthy individuals, so median is often a better benchmark.

US Net Worth by Age: What the Numbers Say

According to recent data, here’s a rough idea of median net worth by age in the US:

• Under 35: Around $13,900
• 35 to 44: About $91,300
• 45 to 54: Approximately $168,600
• 55 to 64: Roughly $212,500
• 65 to 74: Around $266,400
• 75 and older: About $254,800

These numbers vary by location, income, and lifestyle but provide a useful benchmark.

Am I Rich for My Age? How to Use Net Worth as a Guide

If your net worth is higher than the median for your age group, you’re doing well compared to many peers. But “rich” is subjective—what matters most is whether your net worth supports your goals and lifestyle.

Questions to Ask Yourself:

• Are you saving and investing consistently?
• Do you have a plan for debt management?
• Are your assets growing over time?

How to Calculate Your Net Worth and Track It Over Time

You can use a net worth by age calculator online or simply list your assets and liabilities in a spreadsheet. Track your net worth regularly to see progress and adjust your financial plans.

What I Learned: Net Worth Is a Tool, Not a Trophy

Comparing my net worth to averages helped me set realistic goals without feeling pressured by others’ success. It’s about progress and planning, not just numbers.

Key Takeaways: What Should Your Net Worth Be?

• Median net worth varies widely by age—use it as a benchmark, not a rule.
• Focus on building assets and reducing liabilities steadily.
• Use tools like net worth calculators to monitor your financial health.
• Being “rich” is personal; financial security and growth matter most.
  

If you’re trying to decide between Capital One vs Discover credit cards, you’re not alone. Both are popular choices for people looking to build credit, earn rewards, or get great perks. But which one is better? Whether you’re comparing Discover vs Capital One, or specifically looking at Discover it vs Capital One cards, this guide will break down the key differences to help you make the right choice.

Capital One or Discover: Which One Is Better?

Choosing between Capital One and Discover depends on your spending habits, credit goals, and what you want from a credit card. Here’s a quick look at what each offers:

Capital One Highlights

• Wide range of cards for all credit levels, from beginner to premium.
• Simple rewards programs, often with flat-rate cash back or miles.
• No foreign transaction fees on many cards, great for travelers.
• Easy-to-use mobile app and solid customer service.

Discover Highlights

• Known for its cashback rewards, especially the popular Discover it card with rotating categories.
• Cashback Match feature: Discover matches all the cash back you earn in your first year — a big plus for new cardholders.
• No annual fee on most cards.
• Strong customer service and free FICO credit score monitoring.

Discover vs Capital One Credit Card: Rewards and Benefits

If you want to maximize rewards, the Discover it vs Capital One debate often comes down to how you spend:

• Discover it offers 5% cash back on rotating categories like groceries, gas, or restaurants (up to a quarterly max), and 1% on everything else. Plus, your first-year cash back is matched.
• Capital One’s popular cards, like the Capital One Quicksilver, offer a flat 1.5% cash back on all purchases — no need to track categories.

If you prefer simplicity, Capital One’s flat-rate rewards might be easier. But if you’re willing to plan your spending around categories, Discover’s rotating rewards can earn you more.

Fees and Interest Rates: What to Watch For

Both issuers generally offer competitive APRs, but they vary by card and creditworthiness. Here’s what to know:

• Neither Capital One nor Discover charge an annual fee on many of their entry-level cards.
• Capital One cards often waive foreign transaction fees, while Discover’s acceptance outside the U.S. is more limited.
• Late payment fees and penalty APRs are similar, so always pay on time to avoid extra costs.

Which Card Is Best for You?

• If you want simple, straightforward rewards and travel perks, Capital One might be your best bet.
• If you want to maximize cash back with rotating categories and a first-year match, Discover it is a strong contender.
• For beginners building credit, both offer cards with no annual fee and helpful credit tools.

Final Thoughts on Capital One vs Discover

Both Capital One and Discover provide solid credit cards with unique benefits. Your choice depends on what fits your lifestyle and financial goals. Want to travel internationally? Capital One’s no foreign transaction fees are great. Looking to boost cash back quickly? Discover’s cashback match is hard to beat.

Before applying, compare specific cards on their official sites or platforms like NerdWallet or Credit Karma to see current offers and rates. And remember, always check your credit score before applying to increase your chances of approval.

Why Investing in Crypto Without Sleep Deprivation Could Revolutionize Your Portfolio with the Fidelity Ethereum ETF

To be honest, I was completely overwhelmed when I first looked at Ethereum and the cryptocurrency landscape. There are numerous security risks, private keys, and wallets. However, everything made sense when I learned about the Fidelity Ethereum Fund, or FETH. This is not some obscure crypto experiment. It’s a fully regulated Ethereum ETF approved by the SEC in July 2024. For anyone in the U.S. who wants to invest in Ethereum without getting lost in the technical stuff, it’s a game-changer.

What Makes an Ethereum ETF Different?

So, what exactly is an Ethereum ETF? Think of it like a stock that follows Ethereum’s price. You don’t have to buy ETH on Coinbase or Binance, you just buy shares through your normal brokerage account—Fidelity, Robinhood, Charles Schwab, whichever you’re comfortable with. No private keys, no risking your coins in some exchange you barely understand. For me, the simplicity alone was worth it.

Why FETH Feels Safer Than Buying ETH Directly

FETH lets you trade Ethereum just like a regular stock. That’s huge because if you’re used to the stock market, the learning curve is minimal. Plus, it’s SEC-approved, which means there’s a layer of oversight you just don’t get when holding crypto on your own. That alone gives me a lot of peace of mind. And if you’re anything like me, with a mix of stocks and bonds in your portfolio, adding FETH isn’t just a new investment—it’s a way to diversify into an entirely different asset class. It feels like stepping into a new world, but with some safety rails in place.

Ethereum: More Than Just a Coin

Ethereum isn’t just another cryptocurrency—it’s an entire ecosystem. Since 2015, it’s been the foundation for smart contracts, decentralized apps, NFTs, and DeFi projects. Watching it grow has been fascinating. Its price jumped over 80% since February 2024, partly thanks to excitement around ETFs like FETH and increased interest from big institutional investors. Investing in Ethereum isn’t just about chasing a quick gain; it feels like being part of a real financial revolution, something bigger than any single stock or bond.

Why Fidelity’s Version Stands Out

Fidelity is a name I trust, and with FETH, they’ve made it simple. The fund invests directly in Ether—no complicated derivatives, no futures contracts—just pure exposure. The ETH is stored securely with top-tier custody solutions, so I don’t lie awake worrying about hacks. And the best part? They’ve waived all fees until the end of 2024. I can even hold it in an IRA or other tax-advantaged accounts, something I can’t do with most crypto exchanges. It’s the kind of thoughtful structure that makes me comfortable investing here.

How I Invested in FETH Personally

It was surprisingly easy for me to get started. To make sure I bought at a price I was comfortable with, I created a brokerage account, made a deposit, looked up FETH, and put in a limit order. My recommendation? Avoid making a hasty decision. Begin modestly. Ethereum has a lot of volatility, and it's simple to get swept up in the hype. I routinely monitor the market and stay up to date on Ethereum's ecosystem. The objective is to remain informed while maintaining composure, not to become fixated on every price change.

Advantages and Dangers Based on My Experience

What I've learned from my time with FETH is that it's easy, regulated, and economical with the current fee waiver. However, Ethereum is erratic, and FETH does not offer the same staking benefits as direct ETH ownership. There is always a chance that regulations will change, and management fees will start to apply after 2024. Nevertheless, being aware of these risks up front allows me to make decisions with confidence rather than speculating or freaking out when the market fluctuates. For me, knowing these risks helps me sleep better at night and manage my portfolio responsibly.

Why This ETF Matters for U.S. Investors

For Americans, especially those with retirement accounts, this is huge. Before ETFs like FETH, there was no easy way to get crypto exposure in a 401(k) or IRA. Now, you can diversify, potentially capture Ethereum’s growth, and stay within regulatory limits. Personally, it feels like the best of both worlds: crypto upside without the usual headaches.

My Final Take

Fidelity Ethereum ETF is a tool I’m genuinely excited about. It offers regulated, accessible exposure to Ethereum, with a zero-fee incentive through 2024, secure custody, and compatibility with traditional accounts. It’s not risk-free—Ethereum can be volatile—but for anyone willing to think long-term, it’s worth considering. Start small, stay informed, and treat it like a strategic addition to your portfolio rather than a gamble.

I’m new to crypto investing and I’ve recently heard about Bitcoin ETFs and trading options.  I’m based in Saudi Arabia and I want to start small. Can someone explain how to trade options for beginners? What platform should I use?

I’m also curious how stock options trading compares to crypto options. I mostly use apps like Binance and BYDFi to buy Bitcoin, but this "options" thing sounds complicated.

What’s the easiest way to learn and start trading options, especially for Bitcoin ETFs or crypto in general? Is there a way to practice before using real money?

I am a 40-year-old Singaporean businesswoman organizing an international long-haul trip and curious about Emirates premium economy on the Emirates A380.

Just what is Emirates premium economy, and how much will I pay to reserve or upgrade to such seats? How much is the fare, and how do I upgrade from economy?.

I travel frequently on business and prefer comfort at not the cost of business class. Are there Emirates A380 seat map premium economy seats that I should be looking at? And do Singapore's rules or payment in SGD affect booking on Emirates' website? I would greatly appreciate a simple guide to make my next flight more comfortable.

Managing your money can feel overwhelming, especially when bills pile up and expenses sneak up on you. That’s where a budgeting app comes in handy. But with so many options out there, you might be wondering, “What’s the best budgeting app?” or “Is Goodbudget free?” In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best apps for budgeting in 2025, share insights from financial planning app reviews 2019 to now, and help you find the best bill tracker app to keep your finances on point.

Why You Need the Best Budgeting App in 2025

Whether you’re a college student in the U.S., a freelancer working remotely, or a family managing household expenses, a budgeting app helps you track your spending, save money, and plan for the future. The right app can sync with your bank, send reminders, and even help you stick to your financial goals without stress.

In 2025, budgeting apps have evolved with smarter AI features and better security. Plus, many apps now support multiple currencies and integrate with popular platforms like Binance or BYDFi for those also interested in crypto investing.

What’s the Best Budgeting App? Top Picks You Should Know

Here’s a quick look at some of the best budgeting apps that stand out in 2025:

• Goodbudget: A popular choice for envelope budgeting, Goodbudget has a free version that covers basic needs and paid plans for advanced features. It’s great for couples and families who want to share budgets easily.
• YNAB (You Need A Budget): Known for its proactive approach, YNAB helps you assign every dollar a job. It’s a paid app but offers a free trial and is praised for helping users break the paycheck-to-paycheck cycle.
• Mint: A free app that automatically tracks your expenses and bills. Mint is perfect if you want a hands-off approach with alerts for bills and overspending.
• PocketGuard: This app shows you how much you can safely spend after bills and savings, making it ideal for those who want quick insights.
• EveryDollar: Created by financial expert Dave Ramsey, it’s simple and effective for zero-based budgeting.

Is Goodbudget Free? What You Need to Know

If you’re asking, “Is Goodbudget free?”, the answer is yes, but with limits. The free version lets you manage up to 10 envelopes and two devices, which might be enough if you’re just starting out. For unlimited envelopes and accounts, the paid plan is affordable and adds features like debt tracking and priority support.

Why a Financial Planning App Review from 2019 Still Matters

You might wonder why we mention financial planning app reviews 2019. Well, many of the top apps have been improving steadily since then, adding features like bill tracking and investment integration. Looking back at trusted reviews helps you see which apps have stood the test of time and user satisfaction.

Best Bill Tracker App: Never Miss a Payment Again

Late fees can wreck your budget fast. That’s why the best bill tracker app is a must-have. Apps like Mint and Prism excel in this area by sending reminders and showing all your bills in one place. This way, you avoid surprises and keep your credit score healthy.

How to Choose the Right Budgeting App for You

• Consider your goals: Are you saving for a house, paying off debt, or just want to stop overspending?
• Look for features: Sync with your bank, bill reminders, multiple device access, and security are key.
• Try before you buy: Many apps offer free trials or free versions. Test a few to see what fits your style.
• Check compatibility: If you’re into crypto trading on platforms like Binance or BYDFi, find apps that integrate or at least don’t conflict with your other financial tools.

Final Thoughts

Finding the best budgeting app in 2025 means balancing your needs with the features offered. Whether you pick Goodbudget’s free plan or upgrade to a premium app like YNAB, the important part is taking control of your finances today.

Avoid unverified apps that promise quick fixes—stick to trusted platforms with good reviews and security. Start small, track your spending, and watch your financial confidence grow.

Ready to master your money? Download a budgeting app today and take the first step toward smarter financial planning!

Being a crypto enthusiast in the United States, I've been mining Pi coins on my phone for several months, enticed by the idea of a decentralized currency easily accessible. All I hear about is the launch of the Mainnet for the Pi Network. Now what remains unclear is: When will Pi mining officially end in the United States. With a large user pool scattered all over the globe, I fear that I could miss key deadline dates and lose the coins I mined, especially since I trade for money in USD. Could someone please clarify when mining for Pi ends, and what needs to be done next to redeem my coins?

I have read about KYC requirements and the Grace Period, but I find myself a bit uncertain how these might affect a beginner in cryptocurrency terms. I reside in New York and want to make sure I do not waste my efforts, so I want to understand how the Pi Network timeline affects my possible earnings. Are there any dates or activities I should watch out for in order to be ahead?

I imagine similar questions also arise for people in nations like Nigeria and India and that have their own currencies, NGN or INR. How can we all prepare for the end of Pi mining, and what does it mean for the future value of Pi coins? I would need clear directions through this process.