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America’s #1 smartphone (12 16 24)
Sally McDonald
December 16, 2024
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💵 Today’s Top Stories
 | Apple’s iPhone and Samsung’s Galaxy. Often not exactly compatible, the most popular smartphones in the U.S. each enjoy fierce loyalists that say they’re the best. But which one actually is? Read more. |
 | Considering early retirement? Understanding the Rule of 55 will help you plan. Read how it works and whether it’s a good idea for you. Read more. |
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 | The average new car costs more than $20,000 vs. the average used car. What happens if your old car breaks and needs major repairs? Should you fix it or replace it? Read more. |
 | Procrastination is a common theme for estate planning. But don’t leave a mess for your loved ones. Here’s how Clark set up his estate planning and what you need to do yourself. Read more. |
🏠️ Today’s Current Mortgage Rates
According to Freddie Mac, 30-year mortgage rates are 6.60% and 15-year rates are 5.84% as of December 12, 2024. The following chart shows the 30-year mortgage rate trend over the last year.
🚗 You Can Now Buy a New Vehicle on Amazon
Want to buy a new vehicle but don’t want to visit a dealership? You now have a new but familiar option.
Amazon launched a BETA version of its Amazon Autos last week. For now, you can buy 10 different Hyundai models (new vehicles only) from local dealerships in 48 cities. The local dealership will be the seller of record.
Just like other Amazon products, you can read customer reviews, place an item (a vehicle) in your cart and order online.
You can do the following on Amazon:
Search models by trim, color and features.
Secure financing and e-sign paperwork.
Schedule when to pick up your vehicle from your local Hyundai dealership.
Get an offer on your trade-in.
Buy extended warranties, gap insurance and maintenance plans.
Amazon says it will add more cities and auto manufacturers in 2025. It also plans to add leasing and expanded financing options.
Amazon lists vehicles with transparent, no-haggle pricing. The price you see at checkout includes all taxes and fees.
📊 Stat of the Day
🚘️ 119.3 million: Americans who will travel at least 50 miles sometime between Dec. 21 and Jan. 1 according to AAA. That would break the all-time record. About 90% will drive. “Gas prices are lower than last year and are expected to remain that way through the start of January.”
💰️ Deal Alert: Today’s Top Deals
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🎙️ Podcast
It’s time for "Clark Stinks!" Christa reads the latest "Clark Stinks!" submissions and Clark responds. Also, Clark recently needed an MRI of his knee. The price difference between the hospital estimate and an independent office was massive! He details his experience and how we can shop to save on healthcare.
☎️ Need Money Help?
The Team Clark Consumer Action Center is a free helpline that can help you navigate your money questions. Call 636-492-5275. Visit clark.com/cac for more information.
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