Hi, Money readers!

Inflation may be slowing, but prices for many items are still on the rise. That means my wallet and I are entering the new year with our guard up. 

I’m planning to save a lot of money by being intentionally picky about what I spend on — fewer impulse buys, more “sleep on it” decisions. 

In other words: In 2026, I'm giving every dollar a job interview.

Let’s get to it. — Kat Peach

Were you forwarded this email? Subscribe to get Daily Money delivered to your inbox for free.

From Phones to Jewelry, These 7 Things Are Getting More Expensive in 2026

Inflation may not be sprinting anymore, but it’s still jogging straight into 2026 — and taking your wallet with it. 

For the fifth January in a row, prices are entering the new year above the Fed’s 2% comfort zone, which means you should brace yourself for another round of “That costs how much now?”

Home insurance keeps climbing as extreme weather scares insurers, while streaming services continue their annual tradition of sneaking in price hikes. Your phone and laptop aren’t safe, either: Memory shortages and the AI arms race are pushing gadget prices higher, led by Apple’s ever-pricier iPhones. Jewelry is also getting more expensive, thanks to soaring gold and silver prices, and the cost of eating out is still outpacing grocery shopping.

Pet parents aren’t spared, with vet bills rising as clinics face higher labor and supply costs. And health insurance? That one hurts the most, with premiums set to jump for employer plans, ACA coverage and Medicare alike.

Tariffs could still stir the pot, but even without them, 2026 is shaping up to be another year of sticker shock. — KP

Add stability to your retirement strategy with gold

During economic uncertainty, many Americans turn to gold to protect their wealth. Historically, gold holds or even gains value during financial and political crises. In fact, while global markets dropped 49% during the 2008 crash, gold rose 47% — proving its reputation as a reliable hedge against inflation and volatility.

Because gold often moves independently of stocks, it’s a popular way to reduce risk and diversify portfolios. Thinking about including gold in your retirement strategy? We’ve curated a list of top-rated gold IRA providers to help you take the next step. View our list of top gold IRA providers.

The information provided in this email is for educational purposes only and is not intended as financial or investment advice. All investments carry some degree of risk.

ADVERTISEMENT    •   WANT TO SEE YOUR BRAND HERE?

This issue of Daily Money was written by associate editor Kat Peach and lead data reporter Adam Hardy. It was edited by Kat Peach. Questions? Comments? Concerns? Please email [email protected] with any feedback.