SUCCESS

Why Staying Connected While Traveling Is a Competitive Advantage

March 3, 2026 MMN Editor Filed Under: Addicted2Success, SUCCESS

There’s a moment every modern traveler recognizes.
The plane lands. You’re in a new country. You reach for your phone — and nothing loads. No ride confirmation. No booking details. No way to message your team.
For tourists, that’s inconvenient.
For entrepreneurs and digital nomads? It’s disruptive.
In today’s borderless economy, reliable internet isn’t a luxury — it’s leverage. And in Southeast Asia, where connectivity can vary between major cities and remote destinations, preparation makes the difference between smooth momentum and unnecessary stress.
If you travel for growth, business, or opportunity, staying connected is part of staying competitive.
The Real Cost of Being Offline
Losing connection means more than missing social updates. It can mean:

Delayed client communication
Inaccessible booking confirmations
Navigation failures in unfamiliar areas
Slower decision-making

Momentum stalls.
High performers understand this: responsiveness builds trust. And trust builds opportunity.
Why Traditional Roaming Isn’t Enough
Many travelers assume international roaming will cover them. In reality, roaming often brings:

Slower data speeds
Irregular coverage
Unexpected charges
Frustrating load times

In fast-moving cities like Ho Chi Minh City, Bangkok, or Singapore, waiting for maps or emails to refresh isn’t just annoying — it slows you down.
That’s why seasoned travelers increasingly look for local-level connectivity without roaming uncertainty.
eSIM: A Smarter Way to Stay Connected
An eSIM (embedded SIM) allows you to activate a local data plan digitally — no airport kiosks, no physical SIM cards, no last-minute scrambling.
You can install your plan before landing or while still connected to Wi-Fi, ensuring you’re online the moment you arrive.
For example, if Vietnam is on your itinerary, reviewing your options ahead of time — such as checking available Vietnam roaming plans for more info — allows you to secure reliable mobile data before you even step off the plane.
The key isn’t just the technology. It’s preparation.
Prepare Before You Depart
Smart travelers think ahead. Before leaving:

Confirm your phone supports eSIM
Choose a plan that matches your trip length
Activate while on Wi-Fi
Keep a backup option in mind

Small preparation eliminates large stress.
Be Cautious With Public Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi is common across the world — airports, cafés, hotels, public spaces.
But public networks can be slow and vulnerable. For business travelers handling sensitive data, security matters.
If you connect:

Avoid online banking
Limit access to private accounts
Use a VPN when possible

Connectivity should protect your productivity — not compromise it.
Always Have Offline Backups
Signal drops happen — especially in remote areas or island destinations.
Before you travel:

Download offline maps
Save accommodation addresses locally
Screenshot reservations
Install translation apps
Store key contacts in your phone

Prepared travelers adapt faster.
Connectivity Fuels Momentum
Southeast Asia offers energy, opportunity, and rapid growth. Whether you’re working remotely from Bali, exploring Vietnam, or building partnerships across the region, reliable internet keeps you responsive.
Staying connected protects:

Your productivity
Your credibility
Your flexibility
Your peace of mind

In a world that moves quickly, connectivity isn’t about convenience.
It’s about maintaining momentum.
And momentum drives success.
The post Why Staying Connected While Traveling Is a Competitive Advantage appeared first on Addicted 2 Success.

Warren Buffett’s Boring Stock Picks — and Why They Keep Winning

March 3, 2026 MMN Editor Filed Under: Money.com, SUCCESS

Billionaire investor Warren Buffett outperformed the S&P 500 for decades as the CEO of Berkshire Hathaway. His strategy? Stay away from flashy stocks, and assess fundamentals to find undervalued ones.
While his stock picks may seem boring to investors who chase growth, it’s often the more boring investment strategies that generate long-term growth. Here are three investment principles Buffett stuck to, and that you can borrow to grow your wealth.

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1. Look for companies with moats
A moat is a deep trench around a castle that makes it difficult for armies to penetrate, with the drawbridge being the only way in or out of the castle. Buffett took this concept and applied it to his stock analyses by looking for companies with unassailable competitive advantages. A bigger moat further protects the company from competitors and helps it gain market share.
Apple is Berkshire Hathaway’s largest holding, and the tech company has created a moat with innovative products and its appeal as a luxury brand. Its brand reputation helps it stand out from other companies that sell smartphones, computers and software.
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2. Find predictable cash flow
Buffett isn’t the type of investor to consider speculative companies with rising revenue growth and high net losses. He wants to invest in companies that are already profitable and generate predictable cash flow. This cash flow funds dividends and stock buybacks, which make stocks more attractive.
Investors who are looking to invest like Buffett should monitor a company’s cash flow over time and see if it is trending upward. Rising cash flow indicates that a company has more capital it can reinvest in growth opportunities. It also gives a corporation the flexibility to raise its dividend at a higher rate than its competitors.
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3. Invest in yourself
One of Buffett’s main rules goes beyond finding the best stocks. While some equities can accelerate your path to long-term financial goals, he argues that it’s important to also invest in yourself.
One way to invest in yourself is to learn how to educate yourself on investing so that you can identify the assets that best align with your financial goals, risk tolerance and time horizons. But another way to invest in yourself is to invest in your career.
Developing skills and building your network can increase your income, which is a critical piece of achieving financial freedom.
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How Storytelling Builds Influence in Boardrooms and Pitch Rooms

March 2, 2026 MMN Editor Filed Under: Addicted2Success, SUCCESS

In my early days pitching investors, I believed influence came from having the strongest data.
If the projections were tight, the margins defensible, and the model airtight, I’d win the room. But I remember one boardroom meeting vividly. Forty slides. Endless charts. Perfect numbers. And halfway through, I felt it slipping.
Eyes drifted. Energy dropped. The room wasn’t leaning in, it was disengaging. That was the moment I learned something every entrepreneur eventually discovers:
Data informs decisions. Stories move them.
Why Storytelling Matters in High-Stakes Presentations
In boardrooms and pitch rooms, you’re not just presenting information. You’re shaping perception. Investors, executives, and stakeholders evaluate more than your numbers.
They evaluate:

Your clarity

Your conviction

Your strategic thinking

Your leadership presence

Spreadsheets show viability. Storytelling builds belief. And belief is what unlocks funding, buy-in, and momentum.
The Structure That Changes Everything
The biggest shift in my presentations came when I stopped building slides first and started building narrative first.
Every persuasive pitch follows a simple arc:

The Problem – What’s broken?

The Stakes – Why does it matter now?

The Insight – What do you see others don’t?

The Outcome – What changes if this works?

When you structure a presentation like this, your financials become supporting proof — not the headline. That’s when influence multiplies.
Why Clarity Wins in Boardrooms
One of the fastest ways to lose authority in a pitch is to overwhelm the room with complexity. Entrepreneurs often equate density with credibility. We think more slides equal more trust. In reality, clutter creates doubt. Clarity creates confidence.
I began stripping my decks back. One idea per slide. Strong visual contrast. Progressive data reveals. Sometimes that meant rebuilding presentations using modern presentation templates that forced structure and visual hierarchy instead of allowing chaos.
The result wasn’t prettier slides. It was sharper thinking.
Storytelling Is a Leadership Skill
Here’s what most founders underestimate: Storytelling isn’t a marketing tactic. It’s a leadership skill.
In boardrooms:

You frame risk.

You frame opportunity.

You frame urgency.

In pitch rooms:

You frame belief.

You frame inevitability.

You frame confidence.

The way you sequence ideas determines how people interpret them. Great leaders don’t dump information. They guide attention.
Why Investors Fund Stories, Not Spreadsheets
Investors see hundreds of decks. Most look identical. What stands out isn’t just strong projections — it’s narrative clarity.
When an investor understands:

Why you care

What problem triggered the business

What tension you’re solving

Why now is the moment

They move from evaluating to envisioning. And when someone can envision the outcome, they’re far more likely to commit.
The Entrepreneur’s Advantage
Entrepreneurs have one advantage most corporate presenters don’t:
You’ve lived the problem. Your origin story isn’t theoretical. It’s real. The frustration. The late nights. The pivot. The moment something clicked. When you bring that lived experience into a boardroom, the room feels it. And influence grows.
Final Thought
If you want stronger outcomes in pitch rooms and executive meetings, stop asking: “How can I show more data?”
Start asking: “How can I make this journey impossible to ignore?”
Because numbers open doors. But storytelling builds influence. And influence builds businesses.
The post How Storytelling Builds Influence in Boardrooms and Pitch Rooms appeared first on Addicted 2 Success.

5 Best Online Gold Dealers for March 2026

March 2, 2026 MMN Editor Filed Under: Money.com, SUCCESS

Gold is considered a safe-haven asset because it acts as a store of value during periods of economic uncertainty, such as recessions, bouts of elevated inflation or stock market volatility. With sticky inflation, ongoing geopolitical unrest and uncertainty around President Donald Trump’s tariffs, gold is on a record-breaking surge, trading at $4,647.10 per ounce as of Jan. 8, 2026. The precious metal’s most recent rebound is partly driven by the U.S. attack on Venezuela, a geopolitical shock that typically drives investors toward gold and other precious metals.
If you’ve determined that now is a good time to invest in gold, you can do so by investing in equities, such as the stocks of mining companies or exchange-traded funds (ETFs) backed by gold or that hold shares of gold-mining companies. But if you prefer tangible assets, you can buy physical gold and other precious metals, such as silver, platinum, and palladium, in the form of coins, rounds, ingots, and bars.
What to know about online gold dealers
Precious metals are available through online retailers — or gold dealers — that typically offer a variety of products and can arrange for insurance, secure storage or shipping of your precious metals. There are dozens of these companies available online; however, it is important to find reputable ones with years of industry experience and a track record of positive user experiences.
Before buying gold online, you should find a reputable dealer. The best of these companies offer free shipping and buy-back guarantees, and if you’re not interested in home storage, some work with precious metal custodians to securely store your gold.
How we chose our top picks
Our editors and writers independently evaluate online gold dealers, ensuring that our content is precise and guided by editorial integrity. To narrow down our top picks, we reviewed over a dozen gold dealers, established seven categories to determine the best companies and consulted multiple authoritative sources.
Read the full methodology to learn more.
Our top picks for best online gold dealers for March 2026

American Hartford Gold: Best Overall
APMEX: Best Product Selection
Goldco: Best Education
JM Bullion: Best for Transparency
Orion Metal Exchange: Best for Lowest-Price Guarantee

Best online gold dealer reviews

Pros

Highly rated on consumer review websites

Buyback commitment with no fees

Free insured shipping
Price match guarantee
Strong customer service

Cons

Website lacks pricing information

Customers must call to purchase

HIGHLIGHTS

Metals Available
Gold, silver

BBB grade
A+

BCA grade
AAA

TrustPilot Review Grade
4.7

Why we chose it: American Hartford Gold is highly rated across many consumer review platforms and is known for its excellent customer service.
The company stands out prominently for its strong online reputation. It has been in business since 2015. During that period, it has garnered high ratings from consumer advocacy and review organizations.
American Hartford Gold doesn’t offer as many precious metal products as some of its competitors. Notably absent from its product line are platinum and palladium products. Additionally, the website doesn’t include pricing information for the products. Customers must call to inquire about the cost of each item. However, American Hartford Gold offers a price-match guarantee to ensure its product line is priced competitively and a three-step buyback program with no fees.

Pros

Wide product selection that appeals to investors and collectors alike

Free shipping on domestic orders of $199 or more

Secure storage is available through Citadel

Guarantees to ship your order within one business day

Cons

Charges a cancellation fee of $50 or 5% of the total, whichever is greater
Price may be higher for some payment methods
Lower comparative Trustpilot rating

HIGHLIGHTS

Metals available
Gold, silver, platinum, palladium, bullion

BBB grade
A+

BCA grade
AAA

TrustPilot Review Grade
4.7

Why we chose it: American Precious Metals Exchange (APMEX) offers customers a wide range of investment choices, including rare coins, collectibles and IRA-eligible precious metal products. Its website notes that it offers more than 30,000 products and serves 1.7 million customers.
With over 20 years in business, positive third-party ratings and a clean record with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), APMEX is among the market’s most trusted online gold dealers. Of its nearly 8,000 Trustpilot reviews, 86% are five-star ratings. The company’s large selection of precious metals ranges from silver and platinum bars to medieval and ancient coins. APMEX also offers products that are eligible for self-directed IRA investment. The company offers secure storage of precious metals through Citadel, which is backed by Brink’s Global Services.
There is a 4% discount if you pay with paper checks, eChecks, bank wire or trade. You may pay more if you use a credit card, PayPal or Bitcoin. Additionally, the company offers free shipping on orders over $199.

Pros

Wide range of educational materials available

Many product choices, including IRA-eligible coins and bullion
Strong customer service

Cons

Website lacks detailed product and pricing information

Customers must call to purchase

HIGHLIGHTS

Metals available
Gold, silver

BBB grade
A+

BCA grade
AAA

TrustPillot Review Grade
4.8

Why we chose it: Compared to other online gold dealers, Goldco’s website is one of the most comprehensive resources for learning about buying precious metals, which can be especially helpful for beginners.
Goldco has published over 800 articles on the subject, which are collated into a searchable library for users of all experience levels. Whether you want to read a beginner’s guide to investing in precious metals or gold IRAs, discover what to expect from the Federal Reserve over the next few months or how silver prices could be impacted by the electric vehicle industry, you can find what you’re looking for in Goldco’s resources.
Goldco offers a full selection of precious metal products, including IRA-eligible metals. Although the company provides extensive educational materials about these physical assets, the website lacks information on Goldco’s products beyond its gold and silver coin offerings. Shoppers must call customer service to learn more about pricing and to place an order.

Pros

Free shipping with orders over $199

Volume and military discounts

Website lists product specifications and pricing tiers

Items can be returned within five days

Cons

Will only buy back $1,000 or more of metals
Price may be higher for some payment methods

HIGHLIGHTS

Metals available
Gold, silver, platinum, palladium, copper, bullion

BBB grade
A+

BCA grade
BB

TrustPilot Review Grade
4.0

Why we chose it: JM Bullion offers an array of precious metal products, including gold, silver, platinum, palladium, and copper in the form of coins, rounds, and bars, as well as rare metal bullion. Each product page contains detailed information about the item, including its history, weight, condition and more.
The price you pay for any given item will vary depending on your chosen payment method. The different costs are outlined on the product page before you add the item to your cart. You’ll pay the least per item if you purchase via eCheck, paper check or bank wire transfer. JM Bullion also accepts debit cards, Bitcoin (or other cryptocurrency) and PayPal, but you’ll pay a bit more per item when you use those payment methods.
If you purchase a large amount, JM Bullion offers a volume (or bulk) discount. The more you purchase, the less you may pay for a particular asset. There is also a discount for active military service members.
We consider JM Bullion’s purchasing process to be quick and straightforward. All orders over $199 ship for free with insurance. You can return your order within five days, but you may be responsible for any market losses. JM Bullion will buy your gold and silver, according to its website, it maintains a minimum “Sell-To-Us” amount of $1,000. For amounts under $1,000, the company provides a local directory to help sellers find buyers in all 50 U.S. states and Washington, D.C.

Pros

Will meet any competitor’s advertised price

Dedicated in-house IRA department

Offers a fee-free buyback program

Gold, silver, platinum and palladium products for sale online

Cons

Fewer educational resources than some competitors offer
Requires you to call to learn about precious metal bar pricing and availability
Minimum purchase requirement of $10,000

HIGHLIGHTS

Metals available
Gold, silver, platinum, palladium

BBB grade
A+

BCA grade
CCC

TrustPilot Review Grade
4.9

Why we chose it: Orion Metal Exchange offers competitive pricing and will beat any competitor’s advertised metal prices.
The company offers gold, silver, platinum and palladium products for retirement accounts or ownership in commercial depositories or home storage. Unlike many of its competitors, Orion Metal Exchange lists its prices for all its metal coin products on its website and lets you complete your purchase online. It offers popular coins, such as American Eagle and Canadian Maple Leaf coins. However, one drawback is that it doesn’t list pricing and product details for any of its precious metal bars. Customers interested in purchasing gold, silver, platinum or palladium bars must call the company for pricing and product availability.
Like most online bullion dealers, Orion offers a free introductory kit to help customers familiarize themselves with precious metals investing. However, we noted that the company doesn’t offer as many online educational resources for gold investors to learn immediately and independently.

Other companies we considered
The following companies didn’t make our top list of best online gold dealers, but they may still be reliable choices for you to consider:
BGASC (Buy Gold and Silver Coins): The company offers a wide selection of foreign coins and bars, including South African Krugerrands, Australian Kangaroo and Austrian Silver Vienna Philharmonic coins. BGASC has an A+ rating from the BBB.
Money Metals Exchange: This online dealer is a good choice for buying gold in small increments. You can also sign up for automatic monthly purchases to create a reliable savings plan. Money Metals Exchange has an A+ rating from the BBB.
SD Bullion: This company is known for offering low prices. SD Bullion has an A+ rating from the BBB.
Monetary Gold: This precious metals dealer has an A+ rating, but its publicly available footprint is relatively small — the BBB shows only about 15 customer reviews and Trustpilot lists around 25 reviews as of early 2026, significantly fewer than competitors featured in our top picks.
What you need to know about online gold dealers
Before investing in gold bullion, there are several important factors to consider. In this guide, we’ll review what you need to know, including how gold is valued, how to avoid scams and the pros and cons of investing in the precious metal.
Three things to know before buying gold online
First, you must understand gold is not a guaranteed investment. Like any other commodity (i.e., a raw material that can be bought and sold, especially on an exchange), you can expect frequent fluctuations in the price of gold, so you should consider it a long-term investment. Financial advisors commonly suggest investing only money you can afford to lose and allocating no more than 5% to 10% of your investment portfolio to precious metals.
Second, it’s important to consider the various gold products available to you for investment. Gold coins and bars differ in weights, sizes and levels of purity. If you intend to invest in gold as part of your retirement strategy with a gold IRA, be aware that not all precious metal products are IRS-approved and eligible for a self-directed IRA.
Third, make sure you thoroughly research reputable gold dealers. Only purchase from trustworthy companies that have strong reputations, good user reviews and are accredited by organizations like the BBB. Be mindful that precious metals dealers mark up the price of gold (i.e., “the spread”) that they sell from the spot price — meaning they sell it slightly higher than what it’s currently worth on the market. Review prices from multiple dealers before choosing which one to invest with.
How to avoid scams when buying gold online
The best way to avoid scams when purchasing gold is to use a reputable precious metals dealer with transparent pricing and information. Avoid buying gold on unregulated platforms like Facebook and eBay. It’s also recommended that you review the dealers’ ratings on sites like the BBB and user review platforms like Trustpilot.
Before investing, consider discussing your options with a financial advisor who can help determine if buying gold fits your financial goals.
Benefits of buying physical gold
Investors who purchase physical gold often do so because it has long been considered a store of value, with a relatively stable price. It is also considered a safe-haven asset that performs well during times of economic difficulty, high inflation and currency devaluation.
Another benefit of owning the precious metal is the diversification it can provide as an alternative asset. Investing in gold can help you diversify your portfolio and reduce overall risk.
Lastly, gold is a relatively liquid asset you can easily buy and sell and as a tangible asset, owning physical gold offers a sense of security that many other investments do not provide.
Drawbacks of buying physical gold
Like any investment, buying physical gold has its drawbacks. It can incur costly storage and insurance fees, and in the short term, gold can experience elevated price volatility.
Importantly, gold is not an income-generating asset. Because physical gold doesn’t pay dividends, interest or provide income like stocks, bonds or real estate, it might not align with your investment strategies. Read our guide on how to generate passive income for other ideas.
How we chose the best online gold dealers
To find the best online gold dealers, we extensively researched companies’ product offerings, pricing, customer service, BBB and BCA ratings and accreditations, website features, buyback policies, shipping costs and storage options. With a clear understanding of the different types of products and services available, we evaluated gold dealers based on the following criteria.

Customer satisfaction: Customer satisfaction scores provide valuable insight into how clients perceive a company’s products and services. To select the best online gold dealers, we carefully considered accreditations and ratings via the BBB, the CFPB and customer review platform Trustpilot in order to form an understanding of each gold dealer’s customer service experience, including response times, payment options and complaint rectification.
Products and services: We vetted each company’s website to determine the range of products and services offered, including, but not limited to, the types of precious metals and their associated products, the minimum purchase required to qualify for free shipping, buyback policies, and custodial storage options.
Consumer resources: We thoroughly reviewed the online gold dealers’ websites to establish the level of free educational resources available to current and prospective customers, including beginner’s guides for precious metal investing, current market news and retirement planning.

Latest News in Gold
At the time of writing, the price of gold stands at around $4,467.10 per troy ounce and shows no sign of slowing. By mid-2026, Goldman Sachs anticipates a 6% price increase for the precious metal.
The current gold rush is creating trouble for the jewelry industry, and both large and small retailers are taking measures to adapt. Business Insider reports that Danish retailer Pandora, which initially planned to adjust its prices to offset gold costs, even considered using alternative materials like stainless steel during a recent earnings call. Other boutique jewelers are considering simpler and cheaper designs using lower-karat gold or other metals such as platinum.
Though gold’s meteoric rise has everyday people lining up at gold shops to sell and buy, central banks and exchange-traded funds are the main forces driving the trend, stockpiling gold “to hedge against economic and policy risks”, according to Morgan Stanley.
Investing in precious metals is very tempting at the moment, but the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission cautions that “gold and other precious metals are highly volatile and past performance is not a good predictor of future returns.”

Online Gold Dealers FAQs
How much is a gold bar worth?
The value of a gold bar depends on the spot price of gold and the weight of the bar. Many online gold dealers offer real-time gold price trackers so that you can get updated information on current prices.
How much gold can you buy online?
There are no laws governing the maximum amount of gold you can own. However, some online gold dealers may set minimum investment amounts for certain financial products, like gold IRAs.
Is it better to invest in gold with a bank or with a dealer?
There are a limited number of banks that sell gold, and the ones that do typically have limited options. It’s easier to purchase precious metals from reputable online dealers. Additionally, while many online gold dealers offer buyback programs, if you want to sell your gold, banks typically will not repurchase it.
How can I find gold dealers near me?
Depending on where you live, there could be gold dealers available in your area. You can start by searching online for “gold dealers near me.” Most local companies are coin dealers. But since there are so many online gold retailers, you don’t need to limit yourself to local dealers. Most online dealers do business nationwide.

Summary of Money’s Best Online Gold Dealers for March 2026

American Hartford Gold: Best Overall
APMEX: Best Product Selection
Goldco: Best Education
JM Bullion: Best for Transparency
Orion Metal Exchange: Best for Lowest-Price Guarantee

How Improving Morale Leads to Business Success

March 1, 2026 MMN Editor Filed Under: Addicted2Success, SUCCESS

If you’ve ever been part of a team that actually enjoys working together, you’ll know how much of a difference good morale makes.
People don’t just clock in, do the bare minimum and clock out again. They care. They take pride in what they’re doing. They back each other up. That shift alone can have a real impact on productivity, staff retention and long-term growth.
One of the simplest ways to build that sense of pride is through proper reward and recognition. That might mean presenting personalised glass awards at an annual event, or it could be recognising smaller milestones throughout the year.
Either way, it sends a clear message: we see your effort, and it matters.
Even relatively small gestures – like choosing to buy trophies online to mark team achievements or performance targets – can create moments people remember. On their own, they might seem minor.
Over time, though, they help shape a workplace where people feel respected and motivated rather than overlooked.
Why Reward and Recognition Matter
Recognition isn’t just about ceremony for the sake of it. Done properly, it reinforces the behaviours that move your business forward.
When someone goes the extra mile, hits a difficult target or supports colleagues through a challenging project, acknowledging it publicly sets a standard. It shows others what “great” looks like.
Without that acknowledgement, even strong performers can start to feel invisible. And when that feeling creeps in, enthusiasm tends to dip. People still do their jobs, but the extra energy and creativity start to fade.
Over time, that affects team dynamics, customer experience and overall performance.
On the flip side, businesses that make recognition part of their culture often see stronger loyalty and a more positive atmosphere. When people feel appreciated, they’re more likely to stay, contribute ideas and invest emotionally in the company’s success.
It stops being a one-off gesture and becomes part of how the organisation operates day to day.
Practical Ways to Recognise Achievements
There’s no single “right” way to recognise people. What matters most is that it feels genuine and consistent. If it becomes forced or overly routine, it loses its impact.
Formal award ceremonies can work incredibly well, especially when the awards reflect your company values. Categories like teamwork, innovation or customer service excellence reinforce what the business stands for.
A physical award, such as a personalised glass award, also gives someone something tangible to display – a visible reminder that their contribution meant something.
That said, recognition doesn’t have to be big or expensive to be meaningful. A genuine thank-you from a manager, a public shout-out in a team meeting or highlighting someone’s contribution in an internal newsletter can go a long way.
Peer-to-peer recognition can be especially powerful too, because it encourages colleagues to notice and appreciate one another’s efforts. When appreciation becomes part of everyday working life, it feels natural rather than performative.
Building Morale Over Time
High morale isn’t created overnight. It develops through consistent leadership, open communication and a culture where effort is acknowledged rather than taken for granted. When employees know their work is valued, confidence grows.
People are more willing to step up, take responsibility and suggest improvements. Teams collaborate more smoothly. Challenges are approached with a problem-solving mindset instead of frustration. The overall environment feels more positive and productive.
Recognition also strengthens trust between leaders and staff. When managers make a point of acknowledging contributions, it shows they’re paying attention. That visibility builds stronger relationships and helps employees feel connected to the bigger picture.
The Link Between Morale and Business Results
It’s easy to dismiss morale as a “soft” factor, but its impact is very real. Motivated employees tend to deliver better service, produce higher-quality work and handle pressure more effectively.
Low morale, meanwhile, often shows up in subtle but damaging ways: missed deadlines, lack of initiative and increased staff turnover. Replacing employees is expensive and disruptive, and it can unsettle the wider team.
When morale is strong, people are more likely to stay and grow with the business. They’re also more likely to suggest improvements, refine processes and contribute to innovation. That stability and forward momentum are vital for sustainable growth.
In competitive industries, especially, a motivated workforce can be a genuine advantage.
The post How Improving Morale Leads to Business Success appeared first on Addicted 2 Success.

Warren Buffett’s No. 1 Rule for Not Running Out of Money in Retirement

March 1, 2026 MMN Editor Filed Under: Money.com, SUCCESS

If you fear running out of money in retirement, you’re not alone. People build nest eggs for decades to help ensure they can do everything they want once they’re retired, whether that’s travel, dine out or pick up a new hobby.
But there are ways to prevent that fear from becoming a reality, including making prudent financial decisions and managing your portfolio like legendary investor Warren Buffett. The famed investor has picked plenty of stocks that have soared, but his long-term mindset and emphasis on compound interest are key to his financial success.

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The risks of cash and investing
This fear of outliving your nest egg has become more apparent in recent years due to longer life expectancies and higher inflation. You have to stretch your money across more years as it continues to lose purchasing power. That’s why you need assets that can outperform inflation and compound over time.
But while an all-cash approach comes with inflation risk, you also don’t want to invest every penny. The risk with that approach is that you may end up being forced to sell assets during a market correction to cover your living expenses.
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Buffett’s approach
One of the core principles of Buffett’s approach is to invest for the long-term and let compound interest — which is the interest you earn on interest — power your portfolio. As your balance grows, compound interest means your assets do much of the work for you.
Buffett stays invested in productive assets and doesn’t sell due to short-term volatility and market noise. It’s also important to avoid selling just because you are getting close to retirement without a proper strategy. If you have a long-term growth mindset, you can get more out of your nest egg and help ensure that your wealth outpaces inflation.
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Balancing growth and safety after 50
The best asset allocation for you will depend on your goals, risk tolerance and time horizon. While keeping everything in cash can result in significant opportunity costs, leaving all of your money in equities comes with a lot of risk, too. Sensible asset allocation gives you enough cash to cover living expenses in the short term, so you don’t have to sell during down markets. This balance lets investors capitalize on growth opportunities while maintaining a solid cash buffer for various expenses. You can adjust your allocation gradually based on changes to your risk tolerance.
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For instance, some risk-averse investors may prefer putting money into dividend stocks that they won’t need for the next three to seven years and put the rest into growth stocks. Investors who are more keen to take risks may opt to have enough cash to cover one year of expenses, money in income-producing assets that they won’t need in the next three years, and the rest of their funds going toward growth stocks.

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9 Essential Steps to Take Before Choosing a Private Student Loan

February 28, 2026 MMN Editor Filed Under: Money.com, SUCCESS

College is expensive. That’s hardly a surprise — as tuition climbed and incomes stagnated over the past couple decades, the average net price at a four-year public college grew to about a quarter of a typical household’s income.
That’s why most students today rely on financial aid. Even after grants and federal student loans are used, though, some students find they still have large gaps to fill. Each year, about a million students take out private student loans to bridge those gaps, according to the National Center for Education Statistics.
Private student loans can be risky. They’re often more expensive than federal loans, and they don’t have the same protections if you struggle to repay your loans. But if you are careful in how much you borrow, they can make sense for some families. If going down the private loan route is the only way to pay for college, follow these steps before you borrow.

1. Crunch the numbers to determine how much you need to borrow
Borrowing for college can be a smart investment if done responsibly. Data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that those with a bachelor’s degree earn about two-thirds more on a weekly basis than those with just a high school diploma, and they also had a lower unemployment rate.
To borrow responsibly, you first have to calculate exactly how much you’ll owe in tuition, living expenses, books and other miscellaneous fees.
If you’re just researching colleges, you can use each institution’s net price calculator to get an estimate of how much you’d have to borrow to attend.
If you’re already applying to colleges, you’ll want to make sure you fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The FAFSA is required to be considered for federal grants as well as many state scholarships, neither of which have to be paid back. But the form is also required to access federal loans, officially called Direct subsidized and Direct unsubsidized loans.
Colleges will use information from your FAFSA (and sometimes another form called the CSS Profile) to determine how much financial aid you’ll receive. Once you’re accepted, you’ll get an award letter, which outlines the cost of attendance, like tuition, fees, room and board, alongside any financial aid you’re eligible for. Whatever amount is left over after scholarships and grants are subtracted is how much you’ll have to pay with savings, current income or student loans. This is when you can get an idea around how much you may need to borrow.
Part of crunching the numbers is thinking about your exit strategy or how you plan on repaying your debt. Start by comparing your field of study’s average starting salary against how much you’ll need to borrow to graduate. In general, experts recommend your total amount borrowed (including federal and private loans) stays under what you expect your starting salary to be. (See more about planning for repayment below.)
2. Max out federal financial aid
Every financial aid expert will tell you to max out federal financial aid before you apply for a private student loan.
As previously mentioned, the FAFSA determines your eligibility for different types of federal and state-level aid, including federal student loans offered by the U.S. Department of Education. Unlike private loans, which require you to pass a credit check or apply with a cosigner, federal student loans can be accessed by almost any student who is a U.S. citizen and is in good academic standing.
Loan payments are automatically deferred while you’re in school, as long as you’re enrolled at least half-time. While the repayment options in the federal system are slated to change in the coming years, the government will still offer at least one income-driven repayment plan, which sets your monthly bills based on how much you earn, to all borrowers. Plus, the forbearance and deferment periods are more expansive and easier to access than with a private student loan.
Federal loans also have fixed interest rates that apply to all borrowers and if they are subsidized, the Department of Education will take care of paying the interest while you’re in school. They have annual loan limits of $5,500 to $12,500, depending on your school year and dependency status.
If you need more than that, you can explore Parent PLUS loans. Parent PLUS loans can be taken out for the full costs of attendance and also offer fixed interest rates and no required payments while the student is in school. But since the loan will be issued under the parent’s name, they must pass a simple credit check. They are also more expensive than undergraduate loans, so parents with strong credit and income should compare them directly with private education loans. With current student loan interest rates, parent loans are where it’s actually possible to save some money on the private market.
3. Line up a cosigner
Unlike federal loans, which don’t require you to pass a standard credit check, private loans are based on the borrower’s creditworthiness.
To qualify for a private loan, you must have an solid credit history and a steady source of income — something that’s practically impossible if you just graduated high school or are still studying full-time. This is why over 90% of undergraduate private student loans are cosigned. What’s more, you’ll need excellent credit to snag the lowest interest rates, something that’s more likely with a strong cosigner.
A cosigner doesn’t have to be a parent. It can be a relative, a family friend or basically anyone you know who’s willing to lend you their credit to increase your chances of approval. But there’s a catch: If someone agrees to cosign your loan, they are equally responsible for your debt.
This means that if you can’t repay your loan once you graduate or drop out of school, they will have to make up for the missed payments. Additionally, their credit score and ability to borrow could be impacted, so it’s important to keep this in mind when asking someone to be your cosigner.

4. Check out multiple lenders and compare differences in what you’re offered
You may have heard of major lenders like Sallie Mae or College Ave, but there are several financial institutions that offer private education loans, including banks and credit unions, plus newer online lenders like Abe and Custom Choice.
Private student loans are not one-size-fits-all. Just because you know someone who applied with a certain lender and had a positive experience or you received an offer in your inbox, that doesn’t mean it’s the right fit for you. So it’s crucial to get a few interest rate quotes to make sure you’re getting the best deal you can. You should also compare different lenders’ loan terms, fees and borrower perks so you fully understand your student loan options.
You can talk with your college’s financial aid office to see if they have a preferred list of lenders that they usually work with. But don’t stop there; you should also use an online marketplace, such as Credible or LendKey, to compare multiple loan offers you may qualify for (you only need to fill out a single application). You can also consult our list of best student loans.
When researching loan offers, look for lenders that offer pre-qualification. This will allow you to compare offers without affecting your credit.
5. Understand how interest will add to the total cost
Interest rates for private student loans can be fixed or variable. Just like with federal loans, if you choose a private student loan with a fixed interest rate, it will remain the same throughout the life of the loan.
However, federal student loan interest rates are fixed and set annually—for example, Direct Subsidized and Direct Unsubsidized loans for undergraduate students first disbursed between July 1, 2025, and June 30, 2026, carry a 6.39% rate—while private student loan fixed rates can range from roughly 3% to about 18%, depending on the lender and your (or a cosigner’s) credit.
Variable interest rates, which fluctuate based on market conditions, currently range from about 4% to 17%, depending on the lender. Note that only borrowers with very strong credit qualify for the lower interest rates.
Interest on all private loans will start accruing right away. If you don’t plan to make any payments while you’re enrolled, this will add to your total indebtedness when you graduate.
When comparing lenders, look at the annual percentage rate (APR) of the loan instead of just looking at the interest rate. The APR of the loan is the figure that represents the true cost of borrowing. It includes the interest rate in addition to any lender fees. (While private student loan lenders don’t usually charge origination fees, it’s still always a good idea to look for the APR.)
6. Ask about repayment terms and benefits
With federal student loans, repayment usually begins six months after you graduate or drop below half-time enrollment, and depending on when you borrow your loans, there may be multiple types of repayment plans that can reduce your monthly bill by tying it to how much you earn. (Loans taken out from July 2026 onward will have access to a smaller number of repayment plans, based on changes outlined in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act that was signed into law in July.)
Private student loan payments technically start as soon as the loan is issued, though most lenders offer options for in-school deferments. Private loans are more strict when it comes to the types of repayment they offer. Most offer a few set terms, ranging from five years to 15 years of payments after you graduate.
Before you borrow, ask the lender about their different repayment options and if there are any grace periods, internship deferments or special hardship programs in case you’re not able to secure a job right after you graduate and struggle to pay your student loan. Ask about the forbearance policy as well so you’re not surprised later on if you need to pause your payments.
Finally, make sure you know whether they offer a cosigner release and what the requirements are to qualify. Consider any borrower benefits, like discounts for enrolling in automatic payments and rewards for getting good grades.
7. Make a payment plan
Before you borrow, you want to map out your future monthly payments to make sure you can actually afford them.
The easiest way to do this is to pick a repayment term and plug the term length, the amount you’re borrowing and the interest rate you qualify for into a loan repayment calculator online. These typically show you exactly what you’ll owe each month until the debt is paid off, and they can be very helpful in visualizing how quickly student loan interest can add up. If it seems like an unmanageable amount, then you should think about ways to reduce how much you’re borrowing, even if it means attending a more affordable school.
8. Gather all your info
It can take a lender a couple of weeks and up to a month after processing your application to disburse the funds. To make sure that the process is as smooth as possible, gather all of the necessary information beforehand.
You’ll need your Social Security number, permanent address and date of birth, a form from the school that details how much you’ll need to cover all of the costs of attendance, and proof of income (if applicable), which can be in the form of pay stubs or bank statements.
You will also have to provide your school’s name and address, field of study, the academic term for which you’re requesting the loan (full year, one semester, trimester, etc.), and expected graduation date.
If you’re applying with a cosigner, you’ll also have to provide their personal details and signature, along with their financial information and any supporting paperwork that can verify it.
9. Use your spare cash wisely
Many students don’t pay anything on their loans while in school, in part because they simply can’t afford it. But if you do get any extra money, you should use it to pay down interest.
When you have a private loan or a federal unsubsidized loan, the interest accrued will be capitalized after you graduate and the grace period (aka the time you have before payments are required) ends. This means that it will become part of the principal balance, and you will have to pay interest on that amount as well. But since private loans tend to carry much higher interest rates than federal loans, you should prioritize paying those first to make your debt more manageable once you graduate. If you can manage making interest-only payments while you’re in school, it could save you hundreds, or even thousands, of dollars in the long run.

More from Money:
23 Ways to Pay Less for College
These Are the Best Colleges in America
How to Get a Student Loan

The SEO Structure That Outranks Bigger Competitors

February 27, 2026 MMN Editor Filed Under: Addicted2Success, SUCCESS

In crowded industries, ranking strength tends to follow sites that show consistent depth around one subject rather than scattered attempts across dozens of themes.
Topical authority develops through structure, repetition of relevance, and layered coverage that answers beginner questions and technical ones within the same ecosystem.
A site that feels organized, deliberate, and thorough sends a stronger signal than one publishing disconnected content based on trending keywords.Competing in dense search landscapes calls for editorial discipline.
Every article should fit into a broader system. Every page should strengthen the topic it supports. Authority becomes visible when coverage feels intentional and cumulative.
The following sections outline practical ways to build that kind of presence from the ground up.
Topic Mapping
A comprehensive topic map shapes everything that follows. Before drafting articles, define the full scope of the subject you want to dominate.
Outline the primary theme, identify major subcategories, and expand those into smaller supporting angles. This process highlights missing areas, reduces duplication, and prevents random publishing.
Instead of reacting to keywords individually, the site grows within a defined framework that reflects complete subject ownership. Strategic input during this stage sharpens the map.
Internal teams contribute industry familiarity, while outside analysts may bring competitive data and search pattern insights. Working with an SEO company at this planning phase can uncover semantic connections and hidden subtopics that are not immediately obvious.
Their data can clarify where competitors concentrate their efforts and where meaningful gaps exist. This collaboration, paired with subject expertise, results in a structured blueprint designed for sustained authority rather than isolated ranking wins.
Looking up top search engine optimization companies near me allows businesses to partner with specialists who can help them achieve this.
Advanced Queries
Broad keywords attract attention, yet advanced and long-tail queries often reveal deeper opportunities. Competitive sites frequently prioritize high-volume phrases, leaving technical scenarios and nuanced variations underserved.
Targeting those overlooked queries expands topical reach while signaling expertise beyond surface-level explanations.
Long-tail coverage strengthens credibility. Detailed breakdowns, uncommon use cases, regulatory specifics, and implementation-focused guides demonstrate command of the subject.
As such, consistent depth around advanced queries reinforces the perception that the site does not merely comment on the topic but thoroughly understands it.
Content Clusters
Clear clustering organizes knowledge into logical groups, rather than publishing unrelated articles; it structures content around a defined core theme supported by closely connected subtopics.
Each article should reinforce the central subject while expanding one specific angle within it. This pattern creates contextual reinforcement across the domain. Search engines interpret clusters as thematic consistency.
When multiple pages explore interconnected aspects of the same subject, relevance strengthens naturally. Readers also navigate more intuitively through related material, spending time within the same topical environment.
Cannibalization Control
Keyword cannibalization weakens topical signals. Multiple pages targeting similar phrases divide ranking strength and confuse search engines about which URL deserves visibility. Careful planning assigns each keyword group a clear primary destination.
Every new article must have a defined role within the broader map.
Ongoing audits protect authority over time. Merging overlapping content, redirecting outdated URLs, and refining internal linking preserves focus. Consolidation builds stronger, more definitive resources rather than several diluted ones competing internally.
Pillar Support
Pillar pages serve as central reference points for the topic. Each pillar offers a broad, comprehensive overview that introduces major subthemes while linking to detailed subtopic articles.
Supporting pages then explore individual aspects in depth and connect back to the pillar, reinforcing hierarchy and context. This layered system strengthens structural clarity. Pillars concentrate authority signals, while supporting articles expand coverage without fragmenting relevance.
Readers gain a logical pathway through increasingly specific material, and search engines recognize a clear knowledge structure.
Ongoing Updates
Cornerstone content cannot remain static in competitive markets. Core pages should evolve alongside industry changes, algorithm updates, emerging terminology, and shifting user behavior. Regular revisions strengthen credibility and prevent stagnation.
Adding fresh examples, expanding sections that lack clarity, refining outdated references, and improving internal links all reinforce relevance. Search engines recognize active maintenance as a signal that the material remains useful.
Updating cornerstone pieces also strengthens the surrounding cluster. As primary guides expand, supporting articles can link to newly added sections, reinforcing hierarchy.
Older pages can be refreshed to align with revised messaging and current data. This cycle of review and improvement keeps authority concentrated around strong URLs rather than scattered across aging resources.
Original Insights
Publishing original research elevates a site beyond commentary. Proprietary surveys, internal performance data, industry experiments, and benchmark reports provide material that competitors cannot replicate.
Unique findings encourage citations and industry references, strengthening authority signals organically. Sites that contribute to knowledge gain visibility beyond traditional blog rankings. Data-driven content also deepens cluster strength.
Research can support multiple related articles, generate visual assets, and inform updated cornerstone pages. Instead of repeating general advice found elsewhere, proprietary insights create a reason for other websites to link back.
Audience Alignment
Search data alone does not define authority. Real-world questions, recurring customer concerns, and industry pain points offer deeper guidance. Content grounded in actual operational challenges feels practical and complete.
Monitoring support conversations, sales inquiries, and community discussions surfaces recurring themes that keyword tools may overlook.
Addressing authentic gaps within the industry reinforces credibility. Content that solves real problems encourages longer engagement and internal exploration.
In this way, audience alignment strengthens behavioral signals that search engines interpret as usefulness, reinforcing overall authority within the niche.
Author Signals
Visible expertise strengthens perception. Detailed author bios, credentials, industry experience, and consistent subject contribution build trust. Content attached to identifiable experts carries greater weight than anonymous publishing, particularly in technical or specialized fields.
Regular contributions from recognized professionals within the niche reinforce thematic consistency. Interviews, commentary, and expert-driven articles expand authority beyond brand messaging.
Cluster Visibility
Measuring authority requires a broader lens than single keyword rankings. Tracking visibility across entire keyword groups reveals whether coverage truly dominates a subject.
A site ranking across informational, long-tail, and related queries within one cluster demonstrates depth rather than isolated success. Monitoring share of voice across these clusters highlights growth patterns and weaknesses.
Expanding presence across connected terms signals strengthening authority. This wider measurement approach supports smarter optimization and reveals where further expansion is needed.
Structured Markup
Technical clarity supports written depth. Schema markup helps search engines interpret content type, relationships, and hierarchy. FAQ schema, article schema, and how-to markup clarify context and reinforce relevance signals.
Structured data also improves search appearance through rich results. Enhanced listings increase visibility within crowded SERPs. Combined with strong written content, technical precision strengthens topical signals across the domain.
Relevant Backlinks
Authority extends beyond on-site content. Backlinks from publications operating within the same subject space carry contextual value. Industry blogs, niche media outlets, and expert platforms provide credibility that generic directories cannot match.
Strategic outreach focused on topic-aligned publications strengthens cluster authority. Guest contributions, expert commentary, and data citations reinforce recognition within the ecosystem. Over time, relevant backlinks amplify domain trust tied directly to the core subject.
Topical authority grows through intentional structure, sustained depth, and continuous refinement. In competitive search landscapes, consistent focus and disciplined expansion shape long-term visibility.
The post The SEO Structure That Outranks Bigger Competitors appeared first on Addicted 2 Success.

7 Best Gold IRA Companies of March 2026

February 27, 2026 MMN Editor Filed Under: Money.com, SUCCESS

For investors looking to diversify their retirement savings, gold individual retirement accounts (IRAs) offer exposure to the precious metals market while providing the same tax benefits as a traditional IRA.
Gold, silver, platinum and palladium are considered safe-haven assets and act as hedges against inflation, economic uncertainty, and stock market volatility. Investing with the best gold IRA companies allows you to diversify your retirement plan and protect your portfolio with those metals.
What to know about the best Gold IRA companies
The best companies operating in this space facilitate insurance and secure storage, as required by the IRS, and ensure that the precious metals held in these accounts meet minimum purity standards. They also offer educational resources, responsive customer service, competitive pricing and easy account setup. But like any company offering investment opportunities, some are better than others.
How we chose our top picks
We analyzed over a dozen gold IRA companies and compared them with their competitors to highlight the best options for various precious metals investment needs. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned investor, our guide to the best gold IRA companies can help you make the right decision.
For our complete methodology, click here.
Our top picks for best gold IRA companies for March 2026

Augusta Precious Metals – Best Overall
Advantage Gold – Best for Customer Popularity
American Hartford Gold – Best for Low Fees
Birch Gold Group – Best for Fee Transparency
Goldco – Best for Customer Service
Noble Gold Investments – Best for Diverse Storage Options
Orion Metal Exchange – Best for Small-Balance Investors

Best gold IRA company reviews

Pros

Site has informative videos and educational content
Supports investing diversity
Potential for fee waivers of up to 10 years

Cons

High minimum purchase order of $50,000
Hard to find fee information online

HIGHLIGHTS

Metals Available
Gold, silver

BBB Grade
A+

BCA Grade
AAA

TrustPilot Review Grade
4.9

Minimum Purchase Order
$50,000

Why we chose it: Founded in 2012, Augusta Precious Metals offers precious metals investment options and free educational resources on gold and silver investing.
Augusta Precious Metals uses the Delaware Depository — a popular choice among gold IRA providers — to hold customer assets, including gold coins and bars.
The company also features an online library of investor resources, including a video blog series focused on why not to own gold. Such content from Augusta Precious Metals highlights the company’s transparency in an industry where many companies use scare tactics or play on investors’ fear of a (highly unlikely) meltdown of the entire financial system and a wholesale collapse of U.S. currency.

Pros

1,780 reviews on TrustPilot
Focus on education
Multiple options for custodian and depository

Cons

Limited account fee information online

HIGHLIGHTS

Metals Available
Gold, silver, platinum, palladium

BBB Grade
A+

BCA Grade
AAA

TrustPilot Review Grade
4.8

Minimum Purchase Order
Not provided

Why we chose it: Founded in 2014, Advantage Gold boasts top-notch reviews, including 1,780 reviews on TrustPilot alone. Nearly all — 98% of them — are five-star ratings.
Advantage sells gold, silver, platinum and palladium. It uses STRATA Trust Company and Equity Trust Company as gold IRA account custodians, and Brink’s Depository and Delaware Depository vaults.

Pros

Company charges no setup fee or transfer fee
Relatively low minimum order threshold
Frequent promotions to waive storage fees for two to three years
Multiple choices for custodian, storage providers
Free buyback program

Cons

Need to provide email address to access full customer education resources

HIGHLIGHTS

Metals Available
Gold, silver, platinum, palladium

BBB Grade
A+

BCA Grade
AAA

TrustPilot Review Grade
4.7

Minimum Purchase Order
$10,000 for IRAs, $5,000 for non-IRA precious metals

Why we chose it: American Hartford Gold doesn’t charge its gold IRA customers outlandish fees.
American Hartford, founded in 2015, charges no setup or transfer fees and runs frequent promotions that waive storage fees for 2 or 3 years. You do have to pay a $50 fee for the account custodian to establish your precious metal IRA, and the company charges an annual IRA fee of $75 for accounts valued at $100,000 or less and $125 for accounts at $100,001 or more. In addition to its annual fee, the company charges a $100 annual storage fee in most cases.
American Hartford works primarily with custodian Equity Trust Company, and when you set up your account, you have the choice to keep your precious metals in either segregated or unsegregated storage.

Pros

Fee information is clear and easy to find online
Customer can choose their custodian and depository facility
Flat-rate fee structure benefits investors with large balances

Cons

Asset transfers for account set-up can take up to a month
Flat fee structure less cost-effective for small investors
Lower TrustPilot score than some of our other picks

HIGHLIGHTS

Metals Available
Gold, silver, platinum, palladium

BBB Grade
A+

BCA Grade
AAA

TrustPilot Review Grade
4.6

Minimum Purchase Order
$10,000

Why we chose it: Birch Gold Group, in business since 2003, is one of the few gold IRA companies we came across that includes transparent fees on its site.
Many precious metals IRA companies don’t have transparent pricing information on their websites. We found that Birch Gold Group provided the most detail on both one-time and recurring annual fees. It also has an A+ rating from the BBB and a AAA rating from the BCA.
Birch Gold Group charges a flat-rate annual fee rather than a percentage of the account value, which could benefit high-balance gold IRA investors. You can choose between Equity Trust Company and STRATA Trust Company as the account custodian, and Delaware Depository or Brink’s Global Services for your precious metals storage.

Pros

Excellent customer service
Supports diversity in investing

Cons

Limited fee information on site

HIGHLIGHTS

Metals Available
Gold, silver, platinum, palladium

BBB Grade
A+

BCA Grade
AAA

TrustPilot Review Grade
4.8

Minimum Purchase Order
$10,000

Why we chose it: Founded in 2006, Goldco has an A+ grade from the BBB, an AAA rating from the BCA and glowing reviews noting exceptional customer service on the BBB and TrustPilot websites.
Goldco coordinates with Brink’s Global Services and Delaware Depository for its preferred precious metals storage providers. For non-IRA precious metals, you also have the option of using Goldco’s own storage facility if you don’t want to keep your products at home. (Gold IRA home storage runs afoul of IRS rules.)
A Goldco representative said the company doesn’t charge any fees of its own. However, the gold IRA custodian the company recommends charges a $50 setup fee and $80 for annual maintenance. Storage fees are $100 per year for unsegregated storage, or $150 per year for segregated storage.

Pros

Fee information easy to find online
Unique Texas-based depository option
Accessible blog with a comprehensive catalogue of coins and bars

Cons

No online pricing or online ordering

HIGHLIGHTS

Metals Available
Gold, silver, platinum, palladium

BBB Grade
A+

BCA Grade
AAA

TrustPilot Review Grade
4.9

Minimum Purchase Order
$20,000

Why we chose it: Noble Gold Investments, founded in 2016, offers customers a diverse range of precious metals storage options.
In addition to Delaware Depository and Brink’s Global Services, two well-known precious metals depositories, Noble Gold also operates its own depository in Texas, giving customers an additional option for storing the precious metals they purchase.
Real-time account information is available through the gold IRA custodian. Customers pay two annual fees: an $80 account fee and a $150 fee for insurance and segregated storage, in which customers’ holdings are stored individually rather than pooled together.

Pros

Investors pay no fees for setup, transfer or annual maintenance
Lower minimum order threshold compared to competitors
Storage fees could be waived for up to three years
Options for choosing custodian and depository
Fee-free buyback policy

Cons

Site lacks info about custodial fees
Suggests investing up to 20% of assets in precious metals — far riskier than conventional investing advice

HIGHLIGHTS

Metals Available
Gold, silver, platinum, palladium

BBB Grade
A+

BCA Grade
CCC

TrustPilot Review Grade
4.9

Minimum Purchase Order
$10,000

Why we chose it: Investing in precious metals doesn’t always require significant capital. Whereas some other gold IRA companies have minimums of $50,000, Orion Metal Exchange offers a much lower barrier to entry.
For its gold IRAs, Orion has an order minimum of just $5,000 (or $10,000 to qualify for promotions, according to a company customer support representative, which can offset its custodial fees).
The company, founded in 2017, runs limited-time promotions offering free storage and touts no fees, though there is a $50 setup fee paid to the IRA custodian. If your precious metals IRA is worth $500,000 or less, your combined annual cost for custodial administration, storage and insurance is a flat $190, according to the company.

Other gold IRA companies we considered

Lexi Capital
Why it didn’t make the list: Founded in 2010, Lexi Capital is not on our main list because its website says the company does not keep “regular” phone hours, even though customers’ exchanges or returns must be approved by phone within three days of purchase.
Additionally, Lexi Capital has very few customer reviews on the BBB. However, the precious metals firm receives an AAA grade from the BCA and price quotes include 3% discount for cash payments.

Patriot Gold Group
Why it didn’t make the cut: Patriot Gold Group is not on our main list because it employs scare tactics to sell precious metals.
Founded in 2016, the company has limited customer reviews on TrustPilot and the BBB, and it receives an AA grade from the BCA, which is lower than most companies on our list.

American Coin Co. (formerly Red Rock Secured)
Why it didn’t make the cut: Red Rock Secured recently lost its BBB accreditation. In May 2023, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) announced charges against Red Rock Secured, its CEO Sean Kelly and two former employees, Anthony Spencer and Jeffrey Ward, in connection with a fraudulent scheme that included markups of 130% and $30 million of clients’ money misappropriated.
Since then, the company rebranded as American Coin Co., but it does not have an official website. The newly formed company is not accredited by the BBB.

Silver Gold Bull
Why it didn’t make the list: Founded in 2006, Silver Gold Bull is not on our main list because its website has very little information investors need to know about IRS-approved precious metals investing.
The company receives an A+ grade from the BBB, but it is not accredited by the BBB. According to its website, the Silver Gold Bull does not allow order cancellations.

Monetary Gold
Why it didn’t make the list: Although Monetary Gold maintains an A+ BBB accreditation and generally positive reviews, limited independent reviews on major platforms like BBB and Trustpilot make it harder to assess a consistent customer experience compared.

How we evaluated the best gold IRA companies
We evaluated gold IRA companies’ websites as well as the company’s profile with consumer advocacy organizations like the Better Business Bureau, the Business Consumer Alliance and TrustPilot. We considered each of the gold IRA companies’ reputation, transparency and whether or not they provide high-quality online education and resources.
Additionally, we compared the companies’ fee structures and, when available, minimum balances and how easy it was to find this information on their websites. We also analyzed the user-friendliness and responsiveness of their customer service.
We regularly update our list of best gold IRA companies to ensure that our highlighted picks continue to meet these requirements.
Latest News in Gold IRA
Historically regarded as a safe-haven asset, gold tends to perform well in periods of economic instability. However, investors typically caution against doubling down on this precious metal because, compared to the stock market, it is an unpredictable investment that yields low returns in the long term. Warren Buffett has famously singled out gold as an unproductive asset several times, most notably in a 2011 letter to Berkshire Hathaway shareholders.
But gold’s record-breaking growth this year has even the most skeptical investors reconsidering their stance. The precious metal has risen by roughly 60% since the beginning of 2025. Read These Wall Street Titans Say Buy Gold, Should You? for the latest.

Gold IRA FAQs
Is copper a precious metal?
Although copper is an important industrial commodity that is used to manufacture goods ranging from car exhaust systems to plumbing pipes, it is not a precious metal as defined by the IRS for gold IRA investing.
What is the best gold IRA?
What qualifies a company as the “best” gold IRA is highly subjective and is ultimately decided by your personal financial situation and retirement saving goals. Gold IRAs are best for sophisticated investors with experience buying and selling precious metals. It’s smart to avoid any gold investment company that uses high-pressure sales pitches or scare tactics as engaging with those companies could mean you could wind up with an investment that doesn’t fit your goals or encountering scams. Make sure to diversify your portfolio and mitigate risk.
How do I open a gold IRA?
Start by researching guides such as this one to find the best gold IRA company for your needs. Once you choose a company, they will help you establish and fund your new IRA, most likely via a rollover from another IRA. A direct transfer of funds will ensure that you don’t have negative tax consequences.
What is a precious metals IRA?
The term “gold IRA” tends to be the most popular, but a gold IRA — or a silver IRA, for that matter — is the same as a precious metals IRA. These are classified by the IRS as self-directed IRAs, which are a specific category of tax-deferred retirement accounts that let you invest in alternative assets such as physical precious metals, real estate or cryptocurrency.
How do I invest in precious metals?
There are multiple ways to invest in precious metals. One option is to do so via gold IRA. You can also buy physical precious metals outside of an IRA, or you can invest in gold-backed assets — stocks, mutual funds or ETFs that hold physical gold or stocks of gold companies. There are also gold futures contracts and other derivatives that professional traders use to hedge their positions, but those aren’t recommended for retail investors because of their complexity and the potential for outsized losses.

Summary of Money’s Best Gold IRA Companies of March 2026

Why It Feels Like Everyone Suddenly Has a ‘Side Hustle’

February 26, 2026 MMN Editor Filed Under: Money.com, SUCCESS

If you have a side hustle, you’re not alone: 72% of workers in the U.S. have a side hustle or are considering pursuing one, according to SurveyMonkey’s 2025 study on workplace culture and trends.
Survey respondents listed saving for a specific goal and needing the extra income to survive as main drivers for finding a side gig. If you’ve headed to the grocery store recently, you’ve likely felt the sting of high prices — and probably see why extra income would be appealing. Read on why more people are turning to side hustles, and how to start your search for one.

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Why side hustles are the new normal
Rising living costs are a main driver for people finding side hustles. Especially for people not yet in their peak earning years, the extra money can help cover living costs, and allow for early saving and investing.
But older adults can also benefit from part-time side gigs amid rising costs. While most Americans plan to rely on Social Security as their main source of retirement income, side hustles are also among the top three expected sources of income across generations (39% for Gen Z, 41% for millennials, 42% for Gen X and 38% for baby boomers), according to a survey from Western & Southern Financial Group.
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Side hustles in retirement
Getting a side hustle isn’t just about making some extra cash. It can also provide a sense of purpose for retirees after they walk away from full-time work. Side hustles tend to offer flexible hours, which is why some retirees opt for semi-retirement in the form of part-time work. Low-stress part-time jobs for retirees to pursue could include tutoring, tour or museum guiding, proofreading or serving as a school crossing guard, bus monitor or driver.
Some retirees can also earn money via their hobbies, like by selling their crafts or petsitting.
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How to find a side hustle
Some side hustles are more profitable than others, and you don’t want to get stuck with an unenjoyable side gig, especially if you are a retiree finally free of your full-time work. That’s why you should start by listing professional skills that you can monetize for just five to 10 hours per week. Then, you can research side hustle opportunities that align with your skillset.
This approach allows you to work on side gigs that match up with your area of expertise, which will make it easier to raise your prices over time.
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Websites like Upwork, Fiverr and TaskRabbit can help you find jobs, depending on your skillsets. But you can also check local neighborhood Facebook groups and platforms like Nextdoor to see what people in your area are seeking and advertise your offerings.

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