Let's be real

Those Brady kids were never short on wacky ideas and when it came to dating, they always got creative. But when Peter thought having Greg feed him lines would make it easy to land the girl of his dreams, she ended up falling for Greg instead. 🤣

In a classic case of life imitating art, romantic relationships in the real world are resembling sitcom shenanigans. From thoughtful birthday messages to actual breakups, people are increasingly relying on AI to communicate for them. 

C’mon, show your love is real ;)

(Love nostalgia? Play today’s trivia below for a chance to win a $25 eGift Card!)

MONEY MONDAYS

Retiring at this age increases risk of running out of money

According to a new report by the Morningstar Center for Retirement and Policy Studies, almost half of Americans who retire at the age of 65 end up running out of money, and the longer the problem of facing a budget shortfall goes on before retirement, the more likely it is that a retiree will run out of money before they die.

Specifically, the report found 45% of those who retire at 65 in general have a higher risk of their funds being depleted early. For those who don’t make retirement contributions through their workplace, the risk of running out rises to 57%.

In cases of Americans who do make contributions through their workplace and do so for 20 years, the risk of running out of income after retiring drops to 21%.

One reason more retirees have been running out of money over time, according to Morningstar, is because in 1978, the federal government passed the Revenue Act, which allowed Americans to make voluntary retirement contributions, driving more and more businesses to cancel their pension plans. As time has gone on, fewer Americans stuck to the recommended plan of contributing pre-tax income to their retirements for at least 20 years, leaving more with a shortfall later in life.

AARP found in a survey last year that 20% of Americans over 50 did not have any retirement savings at all. 61% of all those surveyed said they’re worried they don’t have enough money saved for their golden years.

TRAVEL

Airlines use urgency to manipulate prices

According to product design agency Tenscope, airlines consistently layer patterns of deception throughout the user experience when buying plane tickets that cause passengers to be prepared to pay considerably more for a flight.

For example, false urgency warnings will pop up that encourage customers to make their purchase immediately, lest their tickets be bought by someone else. The reality is there are often more seats available than advertised and the urgency is created solely by manipulating what any individual user will see.

The same applies for the use of scarcity, which involves design cues that advertise things like “only two seats left!” when there are actually plenty more. Social proof manipulation is another tactic that displays a message revealing how many people are also looking at the same flight at the same time. Often, the number is entirely made up.

And then there’s the ever present pop-ups that are bright, in-your-face, cover most of the screen, and advertise add-ons for what’s framed like a very good deal

Tenscope found these tactics and more have been used over time to get passengers to spend up to 108% more than the advertised lowest-base fare. In the United States, that translates to spending an average of $445 more on airfare, and $1,024 more in Canada.

HEALTH

Caffeine creep can impact sleep

Most people will turn to coffee if they’re looking for a healthy dose of caffeine, but few probably realize how many other foods and drinks are “sneaky” sources of caffeine, too.

Caffeine certainly has benefits, but it can also be a tremendous detriment to sleep quality, especially when consumed before bed.

"Caffeine’s stimulatory effects can significantly delay your ability to fall asleep," explains Dr Leah Kaylor, a psychologist and sleep expert. "By blocking adenosine, caffeine keeps your brain in a state of heightened alertness, even when your body is signalling that it’s time to rest."

These things considered, it’s important to note that drinks like green tea and matcha are sources of caffeine. Many tend to drink these teas as a way of relaxing the body and mind before going to sleep, despite its properties potentially working to the contrary.

Other sources include chocolate, some over-the-counter medications, pre-workout powders, and even bottled water sometimes, though usually only the kind with flavoured additives.

Experts say eating more fruits, vegetables, and protein can have a positive impact on sleep quality.

MUSIC

Metallica saves Tomorrowland

Tomorrowland is one of the biggest electronic music festivals in the world, and it appeared to have no chance of going on this year when a massive fire burned down the main stage just days before the Antwerp, Belgium festival was set to begin on Friday.

Enter Metallica. The gods of thrash metal had parts of their European tour stage stored in Austria, and had them airlifted to the town of Boom where Tomorrowland is held.

By a stroke of miraculous luck and generosity by Lars, James, Kirk, and Rob, Tomorrowland was able to start at 2 p.m. on Friday as scheduled.

"It is a miracle and we are beyond happy to be opening," Tomorrowland spokesperson Debby Wilmsen told DJ Mag. "Two hours ago we were still demolishing the old stage."

DJ Martin Garrix also expressed excitement, relief, and gratitude in a social media post featuring a picture of him and Lars Ulrich.

"I can not believe I’m actually typing this…but my set at Tomorrowland is still happening!" Garrix wrote. "Massive love and a big shoutout to the incredible Tomorrowland team for pulling off miracles—and to Metallica for coming through with the new stage parts. Beyond excited to close the main stage tonight. And this will hands down be the most unique Tomorrowland ever."

RESOURCES

We got you

A while back we ran a poll and learned that more than 40% of us are caregivers for an aging parent or loved one. Since then, we’ve been keeping an eye out for resources to help you navigate your journey.

Last month we came across a terrific, free newsletter called Gray Monster. We love it for its practical approach – which sometimes means taking a moment to laugh because that’s good medicine for you. They also tackle subjects that may seem a little taboo, like the one you’ll find in this issue about caring for an in-law. Give it a try and see what you think.

STAKE TRIVIA

Touring ‘83

It was on this day in 1983 that a legendary concert kicked off, but was then postponed for a day due to a thunderstorm 🎵⚡️ 

Do you know which concert that was? Find out, and test your knowledge of other great concert tours from back in 1983 with today’s trivia! Complete the game and earn a shot at a $25 Amazon eGift Card ;)

Winner will be notified tomorrow afternoon—keep an eye on your inbox!*

Have a great day ahead Staker!

Today’s issue written by Michael Cowan, Joey Cowan, and Maureen Norman.


*SEE FULL STAKE TRIVIA CONTEST RULES HERE.