Columnist | Your Money

Chris Farrell is economics editor for American Public Media's weekly "Marketplace Money" show and author of "The New Frugality." He answers reader questions on most Sundays. Send questions to cfarrell@mpr.org and put "Your Money" in the subject line.


Make sure you are spending enough in retirement

Many retirees who consistently saved over the years spend less than they might in retirement.


An early look at Medicare enrollment

Medicare is a vital universal health insurance program for those 65 years and older. Medicare isn't easy to navigate, hardly surprising considering the Byzantine U.S.…


Staying the course isn't always easy

Why trading is hazardous to your wealth and managing risk is critical.


Start saving early for retirement

The earlier people start savings for retirement the better. The power of compounding over time is impressive. Yet many college graduates find it hard to…


Chris Farrell: Employers can help increase financial understanding

Skills can be improved with education on the job.


Always be prepared for the risks

I've been optimistic about the economy and markets during the rebound from the pandemic. I wish the economy were growing faster. But for now, employers…


Savers owe plenty to Nobel laureate Harry Markowitz

He encouraged investors to focus on diversification, while adjusting the mix of assets for risk.


Prepare now to pay back student loans

The Supreme Court put an end to the Biden Administration's $400 billion student loan forgiveness proposal. The Administration says it's exploring other options but come…


Financial targeting of elderly citizens continues to grow

Older Americans are vulnerable to financial exploitation, and the situation seems to be getting worse after the pandemic.Scholars, government agencies, and advocates have documented how…


Making sense of 'opportunity cost'

Economic concepts can help with financial decisions.