Archives April 2025

The stock market just hit a milestone that some market watchers say is a sure sign of more gains ahead. 

Stocks on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) on Thursday completed a Zweig Breadth Thrust (ZBT), which is realized when the share of rising stocks increases from a moving average of less than 40% to more than 61.5% within a 10-day period. The rare occurrence, which has only been seen 19 times in the last 80 years, is considered a sign of increasing market momentum driven by broad bullish sentiment. 

“This signal has been 100% accurate since WWII, with the S&P 500 higher 6- and 12-months later every single time,” according to Ryan Detrick, chief market strategist at Carson Group. Looking at the last 19 ZBT signals, the S&P 500 has averaged a 6-month return of 14.8% and a 1-year return of 23.4%, according to Detrick. 

Stocks have rebounded from their “Liberation Day” slump amid optimism that the White House is eager to defuse tensions with China, which the administration has slapped with tariffs totaling 145% this year. The S&P 500 was up slightly on Friday after rising more than 1.5% in each of the last three sessions. 

ZBT’s Long-Term Record Is Spottier

Not everyone is sold on ZBT’s predictive power. Technical analyst Tom McClellan, in 2015, examined Breadth Thrusts between 1929 and 1934 and found them to be much less reliable bullish signals. 

The first signal in this period came in November 1930, and it did precede a strong upswing. “But its bullish effect petered out after just a few months, and the bear market was back on,” McClellan wrote. Over the next two years, four more Breadth Thrusts failed to break the bear market. 

“It was only in April 1933 that there was finally a good signal that led to follow-on buying,” McClellan said. But that signal was followed by two more in 1934 that didn’t come to much. 

McClellan was writing in 2015, when a ZBT signal was triggered just months after stocks hit a record high. “I cannot offer much in the way of optimistic commentary about this current ZBT signal,” McClellan wrote, “especially since it has occurred at a point that appears to be the early stage of a new downtrend.”

Stocks did rise after that ZBT signal, but it was one of the weakest ZBT rallies on record, with the S&P 500 up just 1.4% and 7% over the next 6 and 12 months, respectively, according to Detrick’s data. 

Collectively, families across India have almost 25,000 tonnes of gold, making them the highest private owners of gold in the world. To put it in perspective, Indian families have a gold stash almost six times greater than the gold stored in Fort Knox.

Why Gold Is So Popular in India

Gold serves various purposes in India. It is collected and kept as a financial shield should economic turmoil arise, it is given as a gift at celebrations, and in rural areas, it takes the place of banking.

As part of the cultural fabric, women collect gold jewelry, which is seen as a symbol of wealth, and it is often passed down from one generation to the next. And at weddings, gold jewelry is given to the bride, and gold bars are presented to the happy couple.

Restrictions on Gold Holdings in India

Despite its importance in Indian life, there are restrictions on how much gold individuals can hold. According to income tax laws in India, married women are allowed to hold as much as 500 grams of gold. For unmarried women, this amount is lower, at 250 grams. Indian men may only hold up to 100 grams of gold.

Gold As an Investment

In addition to its cultural importance in India, gold serves as a financial investment worldwide. It is often seen as an economic hedge when markets tumble.

The price of gold as of April 25, 2025, is $3,305.70 per ounce. This is up from $2,331.71 per ounce in April 2024.

Gold has been a solid investment over the past 17 years. In April 2008, the price of gold was $1,354.54 per ounce, a triple-digit increase compared with today’s price.

However, gold is also a highly speculative asset with volatile price shifts and doesn’t provide interest or dividends. Owning physical gold also comes with security and storage demands. Beyond owning bars or jewelry, gold investments can include exchange-traded funds (ETFs) and stocks in gold mining operations.

The Bottom Line

Indian families, particularly Indian women, are large holders of gold. This precious metal has a significant cultural meaning for Indian people, as they gift gold at weddings and pass it down from generation to generation.

Gold also serves as a financial means of protection in difficult economic times, as it does throughout the rest of the world.

Alphabet (GOOGL) shares rose Friday after the Google parent posted quarterly results that topped Wall Street expectations amid AI-fueled search advertising growth.

The tech giant, which also raised its quarterly dividend and upped its stock buyback program, said AI integration into Google search had helped power ad growth, adding that features like AI Overview has driven user engagement. Alphabet reiterated its plans to spend $75 billion in capital expenditures this year, most of which is expected to go toward building out the company’s AI infrastructure.

Alphabet shares were up 1.8% at around $162 in late trading, as several analysts raised their price targets for the stock after the strong earnings report. Despite gains over the past week, the stock is 15% lower since the start of the year, due in part to worries over whether the company’s significant investment in AI infrastructure will pay off.

Below, we analyze the technicals on Alphabet’s chart and identify crucial price levels that investors will likely be watching.

Descending Channel Breakout

Alphabet shares have trended lower within a descending channel throughout most of this year, with the 50-day moving average (MA) recently crossing below the 200-day MA to form an ominous death cross, a chart pattern that signal lower prices.

However, the stock staged a breakout above the pattern’s upper trendline in Thursday’s trading session, which set the stage for today’s post-earnings gain.

Meanwhile, the relative strength index (RSI) flashes a neutral reading, but remains well below overbought levels, providing ample room for further upside.

Let’s identify three crucial overhead areas on Alphabet’s chart where the shares may encounter overhead selling pressure and also locate a critical support level worth watching during possible retracements.

Crucial Overhead Areas to Monitor

The first area to monitor sits at $168. This location on the chart may provide overhead resistance near a trendline that links multiple peaks and troughs on the chart extending back to late July last year.

Buying above this level could see the price climb to around $182. Alphabet shares may run into sellers in this region near last November’s swing high, which closely aligns with the opening price of a stock gap in early December.

The next overhead area of interest lies at the $196. Investors who have bought the stock at lower prices may look for profit taking opportunities in this area near the upper range of a consolidation period that formed on the chart throughout most of December and January.

Critical Support Level Worth Watching

Finally, a loss of buying momentum could see a pullback to around $155. Alphabet shares would likely attract buying interest in this location near yesterday’s breakout point, an area that also roughly lines up with the early August 2024 swing low.

The comments, opinions, and analyses expressed on Investopedia are for informational purposes only. Read our warranty and liability disclaimer for more info.

As of the date this article was written, the author does not own any of the above securities.

How close are we to trade deals? … a potential redefinition of a “deal” … invest in the “Iron Law” with Louis Navellier … a no-brainer investment with “mine, baby, mine”

Since April 8 – the day before President Trump announced a 90-day pause on reciprocal tariffs – stocks have soared.

As I write Friday early-afternoon, the Dow has added about 6%. The S&P is up 10%. And the Nasdaq has rallied roughly 13%.

The cannonball back into the market represents a wager from investors. They’re putting their chips on one specific outcome…

Trade deals will be announced soon, and they’ll be economically beneficial – or at a minimum, not overly destructive.

As with all wagers, there’s risk. In this case, there are two potential tripwires:

• The deals don’t actually materialize
• The deals that do materialize disappoint Wall Street

To illustrate the first risk, let’s look at Japan.

Initially, trade experts expected a deal would materialize rather quickly. On the 17^th, President Trump touted “big progress” in trade talks with Japanese trade officials.

However, when Ryosei Akazawa, Japan’s economic revitalization minister, arrived back in Tokyo, he told local press:

I made clear to the U.S. that we feel the tariff measures are extremely regrettable. I strongly urged them to reconsider these policies.

Today, headlines suggest a deal is imminent, but when I dig into the details, substantive issues remain – notably Japan’s reluctance to take part in a U.S.-led economic bloc aligned against China, its largest trading partner.

Meanwhile, it’s unclear how close the White House is to deals when it reports “progress.”

For example, on Wednesday, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said the Trump administration has an “opportunity for a big deal” on trade between the U.S. and China.

But yesterday, a Ministry of Commerce spokesperson threw cold water on that idea, saying:

At present there are absolutely no negotiations on the economy and trade between China and the U.S.

But the greater risk to our market rally is the second potential tripwire – trade “deals” arrive, but not in the form Wall Street wants

Time’s interview with President Trump, published earlier today, provides an illustration (annotated):

Interviewer: We’re now 13 days into the point from when you lifted the reciprocal, the discounted reciprocal tariffs. There’s zero deals so far. Why is that?

Trump: No, there’s many deals. 

Interviewer: Not one has been announced yet. When are you going to announce them?

Trump: I’ve made 200 deals.

Interviewer: Can you share with whom?

Trump: Because the deal is a deal that I choose. View it differently: We are a department store, and we set the price. I meet with the companies, and then I set a fair price, what I consider to be a fair price, and they can pay it, or they don’t have to pay it.

If a trade deal can be whatever the President chooses, then loads of “deals” could maintain some tariff level that negatively impacts Corporate America’s bottom line.

For example, on Wednesday, President Trump’s comments about lower tariffs on China helped fuel this week’s market gains. But included in his statement was:

But [tariffs on China] won’t be zero.

There’s a lot of room between 0% and today’s rate of 145%. Even if Trump takes tariffs down to 50%, it’s likely to have a substantial impact on small U.S. import businesses with razor-thin margins.

For perspective, financial planning platform Vena finds that the average small business profit margin ranges between 7% and 10%. A 50% tariff could do loads of damage. Even a 20% tariff could be painful.

Right on cue, this morning, CNBC reported that Amazon sellers are raising prices:

Amazon merchants are hiking prices for everything from diaper bags and refrigerator magnets to charm necklaces and other top-selling items as they confront higher import costs.

E-commerce software company SmartScout tracked 930 products on Amazon that have seen increased prices since April 9, with an average jump of 29%.

Sellers are now faced with the conundrum of raising prices or eating the extra costs associated with Trump’s new tariffs. It’s an existential threat for many sellers, who subsist on razor-thin margins.

In the meantime, Trump’s 10% blanket tariff, and the uncertainty surrounding higher reciprocal tariffs, continue impacting Wall Street and Main Street

Beginning with Wall Street, here’s Jon Moeller, CEO of consumer goods giant Procter & Gamble, speaking yesterday:

[Tariffs] will cause a challenge, and we’re working to understand the magnitude of what that challenge will be, and how we’ll offset that.

There will likely be pricing [changes] — tariffs are inherently inflationary — but we’re also looking at sourcing options.

Next up, we have PepsiCo CEO Ramon Laguarta from yesterday:

As we look ahead, we expect more volatility and uncertainty, particularly related to global trade developments, which we expect will increase our supply chain costs.

Then, there’s Merck. Yesterday, the drugmaker lowered its profit outlook, partially blaming a $200 million hit from tariffs. From CNBC:

The company said the expected tariff charge primarily reflects levies between the U.S. and China, and Canada and Mexico to a lesser degree.

Shifting to Main Street, yesterday, we learned that fewer Americans are planning to travel this summer.

Survey results from consumer finance company Bankrate show only 46% of respondents are planning summer travel, down from 53% last year. A senior industry analyst at Bankrate cited tariffs and fears of a recession:

We’re seeing…the potential for higher prices, which has many people on edge.

Meanwhile, market research company Numerator recently conducted a survey of U.S. consumers. From its takeaways:

• 85% are concerned about the impact of tariffs on their finances or shopping
• 83% anticipate making changes to their shopping habits in response to tariffs
• 72% are worried about tariffs raising the price of everyday goods

And this morning, The University of Michigan released the glum results of its Consumer Sentiment Survey. From Bloomberg:

US consumer sentiment fell to one of the lowest readings on record and long-term inflation expectations climbed to the highest since 1991 on fears of the economic fallout from tariffs.

Clearly, tariffs and trade war uncertainty are beginning to impact the economy and the consumer. This has us eager for headlines trumpeting signed trade deals – not just “progress” on trade deals.

The good news is in that the same Time article referenced earlier, the President suggested he’ll have wrapped up all the trade deals within the next month…sort of:

Trump: I would say, over the next three to four weeks, and we’re finished, by the way.

Interviewer: You’re finished?

Trump: We’ll be finished.

Interviewer: Oh, you will be finished in three to four weeks.

Trump: I’ll be finished. Now, some countries may come back and ask for an adjustment, and I’ll consider that, but I’ll basically be.

Bottom line: Let’s be clear – this market run-up is a big bet.

But that doesn’t mean investors shouldn’t be making any bets today…

As investors, we’re always making bets. But we recommend that you analyze your wagers through the lens of the “Iron Law” of the stock market.

Here’s legendary investor Louis Navellier with the definition:

Stock price trends can diverge from earnings trends for a while, but over the long-term, if a company grows and grows the amount of cash it takes in, its share price is sure to head higher.

Wednesday brought an example of this law in action when one of Louis’ Growth Investor recommendations, Vertiv Holdings (VRT) popped 9% on strong earnings.

(Disclaimer: I own Vertiv.)

If you’re less familiar, Vertiv is a leading provider of critical infrastructure solutions for data centers, communication networks, and industrial environments.

Here’s Louis:

Not only did Vertiv beat [earnings forecasts], it said the demand for the AI datacenters was very strong.

So Vertiv is going to gap up today. And it’s going to lift all the data center–related stocks.

The gains kept coming yesterday after Amazon and Nvidia executives said the construction of artificial intelligence data centers is not slowing down.

From CNBC:

“There’s been really no significant change,” Kevin Miller, Amazon’s vice president of global data centers, said at a conference organized by the Hamm Institute for American Energy.

“We continue to see very strong demand, and we’re looking both in the next couple years as well as long term and seeing the numbers only going up.”

The gains are continuing today. Between Wednesday and Friday as I write, VRT has jumped 23%. Congrats to all the Growth Investor subscribers out there.

So – yes – keep making bets. But anchor them in the Iron Law of the market, which is what Louis is doing today:

Earnings are working – and earnings are even working when you have bad news…

This is going to be a stunning earnings announcement season for us.

Our average sales are going to be up over 23%, our average earnings are going to be up over 62%, and usually our surprises are substantial. So, whether they’ll be 13%, 15% or so on average – we’ll see.

But so far, so good. 

For another informed gamble, put your chips on what our federal government deems to be critical

The U.S. economy is dangerously reliant on China in several areas, but perhaps none more important than rare earth metals, which are critical in many manufacturing and defense sectors.

For readers less familiar, rare earth metals (or elements) are a group of 17 metals that form under the earth’s surface. They can be difficult to find and extract.

These metals contain unique magnetic, heat-resistant, and phosphorescent properties that make them critical for tech-products such as smart phones, digital cameras, computers, LED lights, and flat screen TVs, among others. Basically, they’re the building blocks of all things “technology and AI.”

Now, at the heart of the China/rare earths problem is one thing…

They control them. We don’t.

Here’s the Center for Strategic & International Studies:

At present China produces 60 percent of the world’s rare earths but processes nearly 90 percent, which means that it is importing rare earths from other countries and processing them.

This has given China a near monopoly…

China announced a ban of rare earth extraction and separation technologies on December 21, 2023.

This has significant implications for U.S. national, economic, and rare earth security.

Rare earth elements—a group of 17 metals—are used in defense technologies, including missiles, lasers, vehicle-mounted systems such as tanks, and military communications…

Well, the Trump administration is now considering investing in rare earth mining companies.

From Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, earlier this week:

We should be taking some of our balance sheet and making investments. The U.S. may need to make an equity investment in each of these companies that’s taking on China in critical minerals.

It’s not just drill, baby, drill. It’s mine, baby, mine.

If we don’t do that as a country, we will not be successful. We will literally be at the mercy of others that are controlling our supply chains.

Yesterday, we learned that the Trump administration will even be mining under water.

From CNBC:

U.S. President Donald Trump has signed a sweeping executive order to jump-start the controversial practice of deep-sea mining, seeking to offset China’s dominant position in critical mineral supply chains.

This rare earth deficiency has been on our radar for years

Most recently, in our 12/4/24 Digest, we highlighted a handful of Western miners that could benefit from “mine, baby, mine.”

Here’s how they’ve performed since as I write Friday:

• Las Vegas-based Mp Materials Corp (MP): +8.7%
• Texas Mineral Resources Corp (TMRC): +105.0%
• Canadian-based Ucore Rare Metals (UURAF): +146.4%

Whether you want to play rare earths with these picks (be careful, they’re volatile) or other miners, this is one of those “no brainer” investment set-ups. Our national security demands a rare-earth supply chain that’s insulated from China – and that begins with miners.

Throw in the federal government, considering throwing its financial weight around, and that’s quite the investment tailwind.

We’ll keep you updated on all these stories here in the Digest.

Have a good evening,

Jeff Remsburg

American shop shelves, aisles and racks could be empty in a few weeks as imports slow, according to Apollo Global Management’s analysis of shipping data.

The number of ships leaving China for the US is “collapsing,” the asset management firm’s chief economist, Torsten Sløk, wrote Friday. If traffic remains depressed, Americans may soon contend with shortages of items commonly sourced from China, which could push prices higher, he said.

Ongoing and fast-evolving trade policies could have a particularly dramatic impact on toys, apparel and furniture. Some $41 billion in toys, games and sports equipment was imported in 2024, and merchandise from China accounted for more than 70% of that, according to data from the Department of Commerce.

“The consequence will be empty shelves in US stores in a few weeks and Covid-like shortages,” Sløk said. “In addition, we will soon begin to see higher inflation.”

The number of vessels with dry goods departing daily from China was close to 70 in mid-March, but has fallen to about 50, according to 15-day rolling averages compiled by Sløk. Their typical load appears to have declined as well, he said.

The drop-off comes after the US imposed a 145% tariff on imports from China. Under this tax and tariffs on specific commodities, products from China could be subject to tariffs of up to 245%, according to the White House.

More than one-third of imported footwear and shoe parts, by value, and more than one-fifth of knit or crocheted apparel, by value, came from China that year, government data shows. More than a quarter of the value of furniture, bedding, lamps and similar goods imported last year were from China as well, according to Department of Commerce data.

President Donald Trump’s administration has recently expressed its desire to reach a trade deal with China. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent called the level of tariffs on goods traded between the countries as “unsustainable.”

Tesla (TSLA) stock posted its best week since November’s presidential election as investors looked ahead to a future with looser autonomous car regulations and a more focused CEO. 

Tesla shares soared nearly 10% on Friday after the Department of Transportation released an Automated Vehicle Framework intended to relax regulatory standards. The stock gained 18% this week, easily its best week this year and its biggest weekly gain since rising nearly 30% the week Donald Trump was re-elected. 

Shares rose more than 4.5% on Tuesday amid a broad stock rally driven by optimism that the Trump administration will lower the steep tariff rates it imposed earlier this month. The stock’s ascent picked up pace on Wednesday after Musk assured investors that, starting in May, he would spend less time leading President Trump’s Department of Government Efficiency, a position that investors worry has both distracted Musk and damaged Tesla’s brand. 

Musk’s decision to re-focus on Tesla offset otherwise bleak quarterly results. The electric vehicle maker reported a 20% decline in automotive revenue, narrower margins, and a nearly 40% decline in adjusted earnings. It also declined to issue full-year guidance in light of the uncertainty surrounding tariffs and the overall economic outlook. 

In the near term, the company faces a bumpy road, with tariffs expected to drive up manufacturing costs and, in the event of a recession, curb consumer spending. The company could also struggle to shake its association with President Trump, whose unpopularity abroad has contributed to a sharp drop in Tesla sales even as total EV sales have risen.

Analysts at several firms, including JPMorgan and Bank of America, lowered their estimates of Tesla’s full-year earnings after Tuesday’s disappointing numbers. At the same time, several left their price targets unchanged, reflecting Wall Street’s faith in Tesla’s ability to overcome near-term headwinds. 

Musk has said Tesla’s value—he has forecast it will be “the most valuable company in the world and probably by a long shot”—has as much, if not more, to do with its development of AI, autonomous driving, and robotics than the electric vehicles that account for the bulk of its revenue today. On Tuesday’s earnings call, Musk reiterated some ambitious timelines for the rollout of self-driving cars, robotaxis, and humanoid robots.

Below you’ll find featured rates available from our partners, followed by details from our ranking of the best CDs available nationwide.

Rates of 4.50% to 4.60% You Can Guarantee Well Into 2026

Although the best CD rates have been slowly drifting lower, you can still snag a 4.60% return from either T Bank, for a 6-month rate lock, or Abound Credit Union, for a 10-month guarantee. Abound’s offer would secure your rate until February 2026.

A total of 15 CDs pay at least 4.50%, with the longest term among these being 18 months. That CD is available from XCEL Federal Credit Union, and it will lock in a 4.50% rate until October of next year.

All Federally Insured Institutions Are Equally Protected

Your deposits at any FDIC bank or NCUA credit union are federally insured, meaning you’re protected by the U.S. government in the unlikely case that the institution fails. Not only that, but the coverage is identical—deposits are insured up to $250,000 per person and per institution—no matter the size of the bank or credit union.

Consider Longer-Term CDs To Guarantee Your Rate Further Into the Future

For a rate lock you can enjoy into 2027, Lafayette Federal Credit Union is paying 4.28% APY for a full 24 months. Want a longer guarantee with a slightly higher APY? Genisys Credit Union is still offering 4.32% for 30 months.

Savers who want to stash their money away for even longer might like the leading 4-year or 5-year certificates. Though the 4-year rate dropped last week from 4.40%, you can still lock in a 4.28% rate for 4 years from Lafayette Federal Credit Union. In fact, Lafayette promises the same 4.28% APY on all its certificates from 7 months through 5 years, letting you secure that rate as far as 2030.

Multiyear CDs are likely smart right now, given the possibility of Fed rate cuts in 2025 and perhaps 2026. The central bank has so far lowered the federal funds rate by a full percentage point, and this year could see additional cuts. While any interest-rate reductions from the Fed will push bank APYs lower, a CD rate you secure now will be yours to enjoy until it matures.

Today’s Best CDs Still Pay Historically High Returns

It’s true that CD rates are no longer at their peak. But despite the pullback, the best CDs still offer a stellar return. October 2023 saw the best CD rates push above 6%, while the leading rate is currently down to 4.60%. Compare that to early 2022, before the Federal Reserve embarked on its fast-and-furious rate-hike campaign. The most you could earn from the very best CDs in the country then ranged from just 0.50% to 1.70% APY, depending on the term.

Jumbo CDs Top Regular CDs in 4 Terms

Jumbo CDs require much larger deposits and sometimes pay premium rates—but not always. In fact, the best jumbo CD rates right now are no better than the top standard rates in four of the eight CD terms we track.

Among 18-month CDs, both the top standard and top jumbo CDs pay the same rate of 4.50% APY. Meanwhile, institutions are offering higher jumbo rates in the following terms:

• 2 years: Lafayette Federal Credit Union offers 4.33% for a 2-year jumbo CD vs. 4.28% for the highest standard rate.
• 3 years: Hughes Federal Credit Union offers 4.34% for a 3-year jumbo CD vs. 4.32% for the highest standard rate.
• 4 years: Lafayette Federal Credit Union offers 4.33% for a 4-year jumbo CD vs. 4.28% for the highest standard rate.
• 5 years: Both GTE Financial and Lafayette Federal Credit Union offer 4.33% for jumbo 5-year CDs vs. 4.28% for the highest standard rate.

That makes it smart to always check both types of offerings when CD shopping. If your best rate option is a standard CD, simply open it with a jumbo-sized deposit.

Where Are CD Rates Headed in 2025?

In December, the Federal Reserve announced a third rate cut to the federal funds rate in as many meetings, reducing it a full percentage point since September. But in January and March, the central bankers declined to make further cuts to the benchmark rate.

The Fed’s three 2024 rate cuts represented a pivot from the central bank’s historic 2022–2023 rate-hike campaign, in which the committee aggressively raised interest rates to combat decades-high inflation. At its 2023 peak, the federal funds rate climbed to its highest level since 2001—and remained there for nearly 14 months.

Fed rate moves are significant to savers, as reductions to the fed funds rate push down the rates banks and credit unions are willing to pay consumers for their deposits. Both CD rates and savings account rates reflect changes to the fed funds rate.

Time will tell what exactly will happen to the federal funds rate in 2025 and 2026—and tariff activity from the Trump administration has the potential to alter the Fed’s course. But with more Fed rate cuts possibly arriving this year, today’s CD rates could be the best you’ll see for some time—making now a smart time to lock in the best rate that suits your personal timeline.

Daily Rankings of the Best CDs and Savings Accounts

We update these rankings every business day to give you the best deposit rates available:

Important

Note that the “top rates” quoted here are the highest nationally available rates Investopedia has identified in its daily rate research on hundreds of banks and credit unions. This is much different than the national average, which includes all banks offering a CD with that term, including many large banks that pay a pittance in interest. Thus, the national averages are always quite low, while the top rates you can unearth by shopping around are often five, 10, or even 15 times higher.

How We Find the Best CD Rates

Every business day, Investopedia tracks the rate data of more than 200 banks and credit unions that offer CDs to customers nationwide and determines daily rankings of the top-paying certificates in every major term. To qualify for our lists, the institution must be federally insured (FDIC for banks, NCUA for credit unions), the CD’s minimum initial deposit must not exceed $25,000, and any specified maximum deposit cannot be under $5,000.

Banks must be available in at least 40 states. And while some credit unions require you to donate to a specific charity or association to become a member if you don’t meet other eligibility criteria (e.g., you don’t live in a certain area or work in a certain kind of job), we exclude credit unions whose donation requirement is $40 or more. For more about how we choose the best rates, read our full methodology.

Nintendo Switch 2 pre-orders are now live in the U.S. But will you be lucky enough to get one?

Presales for Nintendo’s (NTDOY) newest gaming console, set to arrive June 5, started this week. The device is expected to be popular: The company warned gamers on X there could be significantly more demand than supply. (It was originally supposed to be available for pre-order Apr. 9, but the Japan-based company pushed back the date amid tariff concerns.)

Nintendo has allowed fans to register interest by signing into their My Nintendo accounts. The company says this method is available on a first-come, first-served basis, and only for registrants who have a Nintendo Switch Online membership with at least 12 months of paid membership and 50 total gameplay hours on the current Switch. Those who are chosen will receive an invitation to preorder via email, Nintendo said.

Several big retailers, including Walmart (WMT), Best Buy (BBY), and Target (TGT), launched pre-sales Thursday. Many shoppers were reportedly met with outages, “sold out” messages, and other issues. GameStop (GME) experienced some website “issues.”

“The excitement around this online preorder was incredible,” a Walmart spokesperson said; the company sold out of its pre-order allocation. The other aforementioned retailers did not respond to Investopedia’s requests for comment in time for publication.

Membership-only store Costco (COST) sold out of its pre-order stock. Walmart-owned Sam’s Club didn’t have any available for presale, the company told Investopedia.

Amazon doesn’t have listings up for the Nintendo Switch 2 or a bundle with the “Mario Kart World” game. Amazon did not respond to Investopedia’s question about whether it might offer presales in time for publication.

Major U.S. equity indexes ticked higher in the final trading session of the week following reports that China is evaluating a possible pause of tariffs on some U.S. goods. Meanwhile, President Trump indicated that tariffs on imports from China will remain in place unless the U.S. receives concessions from its major trading partner.

The S&P 500 advanced 0.7%, extending its winning streak to four consecutive sessions, while another strong trading day for the tech sector helped lift the Nasdaq 1.3%. After fluctuating for most of the day, the Dow ended with a slight gain of less than 0.1%.

Shares of cable, internet, and telephone services provider Charter Communications (CHTR) surged 11.4%, logging the S&P 500’s top daily performance. In its first-quarter earnings report, released Friday morning, Charter reported better-than-expected revenues, although earnings per share (EPS) came in slightly below forecasts. The company also topped expectations for mobile phone line additions and lost fewer video subscribers than anticipated, citing benefits from streamlined pricing and packaging of video services.  

Tesla (TSLA) shares jumped 9.8% after the Trump administration announced that it would loosen regulations on autonomous vehicles in the U.S., aiming to help domestic firms compete with rivals in China. Friday closed out the best week for Tesla stock since November. The stock has risen in every session since CEO Elon Musk on Tuesday said he would scale back his government work and dedicate more time to Tesla, overshadowing a disappointing first-quarter earnings report.

Internet services provider VeriSign (VRSN) topped first-quarter sales and profit estimates, and its shares powered 8% higher. The company also announced a cash dividend and increased its full-year guidance. An uptick in domain name registrations compared with the previous quarter helped underpin the strong results and upbeat forecast.

First-quarter EPS posted by Erie Indemnity (ERIE) fell well shy of expectations, and shares of the insurance firm plunged 11.5%, dropping the most of any S&P 500 stock on Friday. Although revenue came in slightly ahead of forecasts, higher operational costs weighed on profitability.

Shares of telecommunications giant T-Mobile US (TMUS) tumbled 11.2%. Although quarterly sales and profits exceeded consensus forecasts, T-Mobile reported fewer-than-expected postpaid wireless subscriber additions, and its postpaid churn rate ticked higher year-over-year. The company’s CEO also suggested that customers will have to pay more for their cell phones if tariffs result in higher prices.

Insurance and professional services provider Aon (AON) missed quarterly revenue and EPS estimates, and its shares fell 8%. Increasing expenses, including debt and employee compensation costs, dragged down profits, while Aon’s interest income dropped significantly from the previous year.

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Cash on Hand Feels Smart Right Now—But Be Sure to Earn a Solid Return

Given the economic rollercoaster triggered by President Trump’s continually evolving tariff policy, boosting the cash you have in reserve seems wise. But whether you’re holding savings in the bank or shifting funds from stocks into cash vehicles, it’s important to consider how much you can earn from different strategies.

For an attractive interest rate that involves virtually no risk, the options for safe cash investment come in three main flavors:

1. Bank and credit union products: Savings accounts, money market accounts, and certificates of deposit (CDs)
2. Brokerage and robo-advisor products: Money market funds and cash management accounts
3. U.S. Treasury products: T-bills, notes, and bonds, in addition to I bonds

You can choose just one of these or mix and match products for different buckets of funds and timelines. In any case, you’ll want to understand what each product pays. Below, we lay out today’s top rates in every category, indicating the change from a week ago.

Today’s Best Rates on Cash – Apr. 25, 2025

Right now you can earn the highest rate with a high-yield savings account, with two options paying 5.00%. However, those two leaders have some special requirements that might not suit your needs, with 4.60% being the top high-yield savings rate with “no strings attached.”

Savings and money market account rates can drop at any time, however. To ensure you earn today’s rates for months or even years into the future, consider a CD instead. The top rate there is also 4.60%, for terms of 6 to 10 months. Or you can lock in a slightly lower APY that will be guaranteed for longer.

Rates on brokerage money market funds and cash management accounts showed little change this week, while rates on Treasurys held mostly steady in the shorter durations but declined somewhat among longer bonds.

Bank and Credit Union Rates

The rates below are the top nationally available APYs from federally insured banks and credit unions, based on our daily rate research of more than 200 institutions that offer nationwide products.

Brokerage and Robo-Advisor Rates

The yield on money market funds fluctuates daily, while rates on cash management accounts are more fixed, but can change at any time.

U.S. Treasury Rates

Treasury securities pay their rate through maturity and can be bought directly from TreasuryDirect, or can be bought and sold on the secondary market via a bank or brokerage. I bonds must be bought from TreasuryDirect and can be held for up to 30 years, with rates adjusted every six months.

Summary Table: All Cash Options by Rate

Here’s a different look at all of the cash vehicles above, sorted by rate. Note that the rates shown are the highest qualifying rate for each product type.

Understanding Your Different Cash Options

Bank and Credit Union Products

Savings Accounts

The most basic place to stash cash is a bank or credit union savings account—sometimes called a high-yield savings account—that lets you add and withdraw money as you please. But don’t assume your primary bank pays a competitive rate. Some banks pay virtually zero interest.

Fortunately, we make shopping for a high rate easy. Our daily ranking of the best high-yield savings accounts gives you 18 options paying 4.35% to 5.00% APY. Note, however, that savings account rates can change at any time.

Money Market Accounts

A money market account is a savings account that lets you write paper checks. If this is a useful feature to you, shop our list of the best money market accounts.

If you don’t need paper check-writing, choose whichever account type—money market or savings—pays the better rate. The top money market account rate is currently 4.40% APY. Again, be aware that money market rates are variable, so they can be lowered without warning.

Certificates of Deposit

A certificate of deposit (CD) is a bank or credit union product with a fixed interest rate that promises a guaranteed return for a set period of time. Generally ranging from 3 months to 5 years, CDs offer a predictable return with a rate that cannot be changed for the duration of the term.

But be aware that it’s a commitment with teeth: If you cash in before maturity, your earnings will be dinged with an early withdrawal penalty. Our daily ranking of the best nationwide CDs currently includes options paying up to 4.60% APY.

Brokerage and Robo-Advisor Products

Money Market Funds

Unlike a money market account at a bank, money market funds are mutual funds invested in cash and offered by brokerage and robo-advisor firms. Their yields can fluctuate daily but currently range from 3.96% to 4.22% at the three biggest brokerages.

Cash Management Accounts

For uninvested cash held at a brokerage or robo-advisor, you can have the funds “swept” into a cash management account where it will earn a return. Unlike money market funds, cash management accounts offer a specific interest rate that the brokerage or robo-advisor can adjust whenever it likes. Currently, several popular brokers are paying 3.83% to 4.00% APY on their cash accounts.

U.S. Treasury Products

Treasury Bills, Notes, and Bonds

The U.S. Treasury offers a wide array of short- and long-term bond instruments. Treasury bills have the shortest duration, ranging from 4 to 52 weeks, while Treasury notes have a maturity of 2 to 5 years. The longest-term option is a Treasury bond, which has a 20- to 30-year maturity. Today’s rates on the various Treasury products range from 3.74% to 4.75%.

You can buy T-bills, notes, and bonds directly from TreasuryDirect or buy and sell them on the secondary market at brokerages and banks. Selling a Treasury product allows you to exit before the bond matures. However, you may pay a fee or commission for secondary market purchases and sales, while buying and redeeming at TreasuryDirect—the U.S. Treasury’s online platform for buying federal government securities—has no fees.

You can also buy Treasury ETFs, which trade on the market like a stock. Treasury ETFs have advantages and limitations, which you can read about here.

I Bonds

U.S. Treasury I bonds have a rate that’s adjusted every six months to align with inflation trends. You can redeem an I bond anytime after one year or hold it for as long as 30 years. Every six months you own the bond, your rate will change.

How We Find the Best Savings and CD Rates

Every business day, Investopedia tracks the rate data of more than 200 banks and credit unions that offer CDs and savings accounts to customers nationwide and determines daily rankings of the top-paying accounts. To qualify for our lists, the institution must be federally insured (FDIC for banks, NCUA for credit unions), and the account’s minimum initial deposit must not exceed $25,000. It also cannot specify a maximum deposit amount that’s below $5,000.

Banks must be available in at least 40 states to qualify as nationally available. And while some credit unions require you to donate to a specific charity or association to become a member if you don’t meet other eligibility criteria (e.g., you don’t live in a certain area or work in a certain kind of job), we exclude credit unions whose donation requirement is $40 or more. For more about how we choose the best rates, read our full methodology.