3 Money Trends to Watch: AI, Student Loans & the Housing Market

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Show Notes

This month, we’re breaking down three financial trends that could impact your money: student loans, investing, and housing.

We cover what borrowers should know about current student loan refinance rates, why some income-driven repayment payments may not look right, and our upcoming Student Loan Forgiveness Tracker. We also tackle the big investing question—are we in an AI bubble?—and why staying disciplined may matter more than trying to predict the market.

Finally, we look at the changing housing market, where buyers may be gaining negotiating power and new construction could offer opportunities worth considering.

In this episode:

Student loan refinance rates and IDR payment issues
The upcoming Student Loan Forgiveness Tracker
AI: long-term transformation vs. stock market valuations
Why investment discipline matters in uncertain markets
Growing opportunities for homebuyers
Existing homes vs. new construction

Check out the links and resources below to learn more.

Student Loan Refinance | Rate

4-6.5% range source: Internal Student Loan Refinance Marketplace Data, July 2026

By refinancing, you may pay more in costs and interest over the extended term.

Information provided is for educational purposes only. It should not be construed as financial or legal advice or instruction. Rate does not guarantee or assume liability for the accuracy, completeness or timelines of the information. You should conduct additional research before making any mortgage related decisions.

The student loan refinance marketplace is operated by FitBux, Inc., which facilitates connections to third-party Platform Partners (such as LendKey and Splash Financial) and their lending institutions. They may receive compensation when you complete a loan transaction. Rate and Fitbux are affiliated companies. The platform does not represent all available loan options. Product availability varies by state. Consult a qualified advisor before refinancing. Go to {URL} for full terms and conditions.

Operating as Guaranteed Rate, Inc. in New York. Guaranteed Rate, Inc. D/B/A Rate; NMLS #2611; Rate.com; For licensing information visit nmlsconsumeraccess.org. Equal Housing Lender. Conditions may apply.