Were previous generations really better at building wealth, or did they simply benefit from a more forgiving economy? Noble Gold founder Collin Plume looks at four financial trends shaping Americans’ wealth today, from rising asset prices and living costs to federal debt and the declining purchasing power of the dollar.

For millions of Americans, Social Security is one of the few sources of retirement income they expect to be there no matter what happens to the stock market, the economy or Washington.

Democratic socialism is gaining influence in American politics. What could higher taxes, expanded government spending, and greater economic intervention mean for your retirement savings? We examine the risks and where physical gold may fit into a diversified portfolio.