Side Hustle Nation: How Americans Leverage AI, Tech, and Flex to Beat Inflation

In 2025, more Americans are turning to creative side businesses to cope with financial pressures such as high inflation, rising living expenses, and wages that aren't keeping up. Many households feel financially stuck, partly because homeowners with low-rate mortgages can't easily move for better jobs. As a result, many people are pursuing flexible ways to earn extra income, taking advantage of remote work, technology, and digital opportunities. Popular choices include businesses based on artificial intelligence technology, sustainability, and digital platforms, allowing individuals to boost their income without leaving their current homes or jobs.

House Passes Landmark Tax Reform to Boost Middle-Class Prosperity

On Tuesday, June 10, 2025, the U.S. House of Representatives passed a major tax reform bill called the "One Big Beautiful Bill Act." This bill includes important changes intended to simplify tax laws and benefit millions of American families. It extends current tax brackets and rates, increases the child tax credit, and raises the standard deduction—meaning many people may owe less in taxes or get larger refunds. Additionally, the bill expands the limits on tax-free savings accounts such as Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and 529 college savings plans, making it easier for families to save for medical and educational costs. The bill also contains targeted measures to aid small businesses and entrepreneurs by improving deductions and calculations for business taxes. Overall, it aims to provide stronger financial stability for middle-class families and encourage economic growth.

Vacation Values, Economic Realities: Americans Trim Travel Budgets in 2025

In 2025, Americans are cutting back on travel spending, despite believing strongly in the value of vacation experiences. Compared to last year, spending on hotels and lodging has dropped by 2.5 percent, while expenses related to flying have fallen nearly 6 percent. This trend is closely related to broader economic challenges; almost half of Americans point to the increased cost of living and overall economic concerns as key reasons they are traveling less. Additionally, many are feeling the financial impact of tariffs (special taxes added to imported goods), which makes everyday products more expensive and further reduces their ability to spend on vacations. While people still cherish vacation memories, these economic pressures mean fewer trips and smaller travel budgets for many families.

Cooling Trade Tensions Ease Inflation Worries for Americans

Americans are becoming more optimistic about inflation, as easing trade issues between the U.S. and China seem to be calming concerns over rising prices. In May 2025, expectations for inflation over the coming year dropped from 3.6% to 3.2%, according to a recent survey by the New York Federal Reserve. This drop is linked to the Trump administration's announcement of a temporary pause in the trade dispute with China, suggesting people see trade tensions as closely connected to price changes. Although inflation is still above the Federal Reserve's target at 2.3%, it has cooled somewhat from earlier highs, offering some relief as mortgage rates remain unusually high around 7% for a 30-year loan.

DMV Deception: South Dakota Hit by Text Ticket Scam

On June 9, 2025, South Dakota residents faced a widespread text message scam that pretended to be sent from the state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Scammers falsely accused drivers of having unpaid traffic tickets, demanding immediate payment to avoid penalties such as license suspension or further legal action. Due to the convincing nature of the scam, many people searched for information online, resulting in a spike in Google searches related to the issue. Officials quickly warned residents to ignore the texts and reminded them that government agencies do not typically send demands for payment through text messages.

High-Yield Savings Accounts: Strong Returns Amid Economic Uncertainty

As of June 9, 2025, high-yield savings accounts remain an attractive choice for consumers seeking stable and relatively high returns during uncertain economic times. While rates slightly decreased to around 4.30% APY, they still offer a valuable opportunity for savers, as inflation remains lower than these yields. The Federal Reserve's benchmark rate of between 4.25% and 4.5% helps keep these savings account rates strong. Many experts believe the Fed will hold rates steady in their next meeting. Ongoing political discussions, including a recent meeting between President Donald Trump and Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, continue to influence decisions about monetary policy and interest rates nationwide.

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