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DOJ investigation of Fed Chair Powell sparks backlash, support for Fed independence

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Trump administration's criminal investigation of Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell appeared on Monday to be emboldening defenders of the U.S. central bank that President Donald Trump wants to bring under his sway. The backlash reflected the bigger stakes of a contest about the fate of the Fed’s independence, the balance of power within the federal government, and the path of the U.S. economy. Trump has long publicly lashed out against Powell for not slashing the Fed's benchmark interest rates to his liking, but the prospect of a criminal indictment was a step ...

Achieve your financial goals in 2026

NEW YORK (AP) — The start of a new year usually brings new motivation to achieve goals like eating healthier or finally cleaning your basement. Many resolutions also focus on financial goals, such as paying off credit card debt, saving for a new house, or simply getting more educated about ...

Canfield native reinvents herself with self-care brand

YOUNGSTOWN — BrookeLynn Cohol, founder of the all-natural skincare and self-care brand Ella Vatour, has launched The Evolution Series. which is her collection of five essential oil blends in support of individuals going through life transitions. The series, introduced for the holiday season, draws from Cohol’s experiences in brand development and essential oils during her time in Los Angeles. She described the blends as “scientifically proven to trigger different mental phases, representing stages of clarity, inspiration, direction, expansion and arrival.” The Canfield native ...

3 big changes for retirement planning this year

For retirement savers and retirees, the new year brings more than the usual inflation adjustments to retirement contributions. The retirement legislation known as Secure 2.0 will also continue to phase in, and the One Big Beautiful Bill Act will have impacts too. Here’s a roundup of three key changes and some moves to consider. Roth-only catch-up contributions for 401(k) investors Thanks to a provision in the Secure 2.0 retirement legislation, high-income earners (with $150,000 or more in FICA income in the prior year) who are over 50 and investing in 401(k) or other company ...

Examining last year’s odd economy, and what to watch for moving forward

WASHINGTON (AP) — The economy in 2025 was filled with contradictions, as growth was healthy while hiring slowed, inflation stayed elevated and unemployment rose. Last year’s odd outcomes raise a host of questions for the upcoming year: Will a growing economy eventually boost the sluggish job market? Or are last year’s weak job gains a sign of a stumbling economy that could get worse? There is another uncomfortable possibility: The economy could keep growing without much hiring, as technology — particularly artificial intelligence — enables more companies to step up their ...

Edmunds: 5 affordable cars and SUVs for 2026

Affordability is a hotter topic than ever in 2026. Many people are struggling to manage rising costs and live within their means, making it harder to justify splurging on things they want but don’t need. That applies to car shopping decisions too. If you need a new vehicle and your budget is tight, check out this list of the best affordable cars for sale to help you get started on the right foot. Edmunds’ experts have ranked their favorite models for 2026 across price and size classes. Factor in base prices, fuel economy and safety ratings, and the following list of the five best ...