Shocking stat of the day: 52% of US consumers can not cover a 2,000 emergency expense using only savings, according to a Fed survey. Furthermore, 31% of Americans can not handle a 500 unexpected expenditure. A record 37% of respondents described inflation and prices as their main financial challenges in 2024. By comparison, in 2023, 2022, and 2016, this percentage was at 35%, 33%, and 8%, respectively. Inflation remains a major issue for Americans.