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Navigating Personal Finance in 2025: Key Changes to Capital Gains and Tax Brackets

As we step into 2025, several significant changes are set to impact personal finance, particularly in the areas of capital gains and tax brackets. These adjustments are designed to adapt to economic conditions and provide better financial planning opportunities for individuals. Capital Gains Tax Adjustments One of the most notable changes is the adjustment to capital gains tax. Starting in 2025, a higher tax rate will be applied to capital gains exceeding $250,000. This means that individuals selling assets with substantial gains may need to reconsider their timing and strategy to minimize tax liabilities. For example, spreading the sale of assets over multiple years could be a more tax-efficient approach. Changes to Tax Brackets Inflation adjustments are also on the horizon for tax brackets. To prevent inflation from pushing taxpayers into higher brackets, the income thresholds for each tax bracket will increase by 2.7%. For instance, the federal tax rate for earnings up to $57,375 wi...

Historic Win for Far-Right in French First-Round Vote

 

In a surprising turn of events, Marine Le Pen’s far-right National Rally (RN) party secured historic gains in the first round of France’s parliamentary election. The RN and its allies captured 33% of the vote, outperforming both the left-wing bloc (28%) and President Emmanuel Macron’s centrist alliance (20%). This outcome dealt a significant blow to Macron, who had called for the snap election after the RN’s victory in European Parliament elections last month.

The path to forming a government now hinges on the decisive second round. Other parties must strategically rally around the best-placed rival candidates in constituencies across France to thwart Le Pen’s ascent. The RN, once a pariah, is now closer to power than ever before. Le Pen’s efforts to rebrand the party have resonated with voters amid concerns over immigration and the high cost of living.

However, questions remain about the RN’s policies. An RN-led government would challenge the direction of the European Union, given its resistance to further integration. Economists also question the party’s fully funded spending plans. Market relief following the results pushed the euro to a two-week high during Asian trading.

As the remaining candidates prepare for the second round, the political landscape in France hangs in the balance. Will the far-right National Rally secure victory, or will other parties rally to prevent Le Pen’s ascent? Only time will tell.

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