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Kiplinger's Personal Finance Magazine - December 2025

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In this issue

We’re Better Off Together
A little interaction with others can go a long way to make everyday tasks more pleasant.

Checking In With the Kiplinger Dividend 15
Overall, our favorite dividend stocks did well over the past year. We review the performance and assess the prospects of each, and we welcome two new members to the list.

8 Dividend Funds to Consider Now
We found worthy funds that employ different strategies, including a few that invest in foreign dividend payers.

TO TIP OR NOT TO TIP?

If you're weary of widespread prompts to leave a gratuity, follow these guidelines on when it's customary—and when you can skip it.

3 mins

WHAT'S AHEAD FOR SOCIAL SECURITY

Bipartisan collaboration on a mix of reforms will likely be needed to keep the system solvent and benefits intact.

3 mins

WHEN HELPING MOM AND DAD HURTS YOUR WALLET

New research shows how assisting an aging parent with expenses can strain your own finances.

3 mins

CHECKING IN ON THE KIPLINGER DIVIDEND 15

Our favorite dividend payers have had a good year on average, beating the market and yielding twice as much.

10+ mins

8 DIVIDEND FUNDS TO CONSIDER NOW

Our picks deliver a diversified portfolio of dividend stocks.

6 mins

A NEW WAVE OF ETFS IS ON THE WAY

A long-expected decision from the Securities and Exchange Commission is close to being official, and it could mean more exchange-traded fund options for investors.

1 mins

Bullish on Trillion-Dollar Stocks

Eight of the nine Trillion Dollar Club members are tech stocks. For the ninth, Berkshire Hathaway, Apple is one-fifth of assets.

5 mins

THIS FUND FERRETS OUT HIGH-QUALITY STOCKS

THE U.S. stock market has been notching new highs, which tends to kick up the likelihood of a market pullback (defined as a drop of 5% to 10%) or even a correction (a 10% to 20% selloff). That's where JPMorgan U.S. Quality Factor comes in.

1 mins

Same Story, Different Year

WHAT does the Federal Reserve's rate-reduction initiative mean in the short run for your fixed-income holdings? You'll recall that one year ago, the Fed cut three times, starting by hacking its benchmark overnight funds rate by 0.50 percentage point in September. The year ended with bond markets and fund returns in retreat. It's wishful thinking that cheaper short-term credit and falling money market yields will spark a general bond-buying binge and propel your 2025 total returns toward 10% by year-end.

2 mins

HANG IN THERE WITH THIS VALUE FUND

VALUE investing enjoyed 15 minutes of sunshine in early 2025, when the S&P 500 sank 19% from its February peak to its early April trough. Dodge & Cox Stock held up better, albeit with a 15% decline. Since then, the large-company value fund has rebounded 21% through September. That’s impressive, but it lags the S&P 500, which has bounced 34%. All told, over the past 12 months through September 30, Dodge & Cox Stock has climbed just over 9%, far short of the nearly 18% gain in the S&P 500.

1 mins

21 SMART MOVES TO MAKE BEFORE YEAR-END

These steps can help trim your tax bill, boost your savings, lower your health care costs and set you up for financial success in 2026.

10+ mins

Paying by Credit Card? Avoid Extra Charges

WHEN you go shopping, buy gas or dine out, you may notice that some vendors charge extra if you pay with a credit card. A survey earlier this year from data analytics company J.D. Power found that 34% of small businesses are adding a surcharge when customers use a credit card.

1 mins

A GUIDE TO LAUNCHING A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS AFTER 50

Age can be an advantage for older entrepreneurs looking to extend their careers or supplement income in retirement.

10+ mins

Will You Outlive Your Money?

To prepare for a long life span, retirees must address the need for long-term care.

2 mins

WHAT TO MAKE OF A HOT IPO MARKET

This year's crop of initial public offerings could be even dicier than usual because of a skew toward tech and crypto.

5 mins

New Ways to Use 529 Funds

Tax-free withdrawals from these plans could help you sharpen your job skills.

2 mins

HOW TO GIVE BETTER HOLIDAY GIFTS (ACCORDING TO SCIENCE)

These strategies, backed by behavioral finance, can help you find presents that your loved ones will truly enjoy.

7 mins

Grab a Deal on a Winter Getaway

In the early months of the year, travel demand dips-and so do prices.

5 mins

Read all Stories from Kiplinger's Personal Finance

Kiplinger's Personal Finance Magazine Description:

Publisher: Future

Category: Investment

Language: English

Frequency: Monthly

Whether you're a seasoned investor or just starting on your financial journey, Kiplinger's Personal Finance offers guidance tailored to your needs. From tips on saving for college and buying a home to optimizing your portfolio and planning for a secure retirement, the magazine equips readers with the knowledge and tools to achieve financial stability and prosperity.

With a legacy spanning over 70 years, Kiplinger's Personal Finance has been a go-to resource for individuals seeking practical advice, expert insights, and valuable tips to manage their money effectively.

Within the pages of Kiplinger's Personal Finance, you'll find a wealth of information on topics such as budgeting, investing, retirement planning, taxes, and much more. The magazine offers a mix of engaging articles, expert analysis, and real-life success stories, providing readers with actionable strategies to navigate the complexities of personal finance.

Discover the power of Kiplinger's Personal Finance and unlock the secrets to financial success. Let the magazine be your trusted companion as you embark on a path toward financial well-being and take control of your financial future.