Our Scans · (FS.6.06) Personal Finance · Weekly Summary

• [New] Last year heralded a notable influx of UK Government funding, and commencing April, we anticipate significant increases in the minimum wage and state pension, as well as reductions in energy expenses-all achievements facilitated by a Labour Government. RS Web Solutions
• [New] Many taxpayers will see higher deductions, higher contribution limits, and new retirement rules in 2026, but they will also lose the IRS's free Direct File option. Empower
• [New] With the International Space Station scheduled for retirement around 2030, the race to build commercial replacements has reached a critical phase. FMN News
• [New] In California, the minimum wage will rise to $16.90, while salaried workers will be guaranteed $70,304 a year. Yahoo News
• [New] Washington will become the first state with a statewide minimum wage above $17 an hour. Yahoo News
• [New] Minimum wage workers in Hawaii will see the largest jump in their hourly pay. CNBC
• [New] More than 8.3 million workers are expected to benefit from minimum wage hikes in 19 states, which will collectively add an estimated $5 billion in earnings nationwide. CNBC
• [New] Connecticut's minimum wage will be increased by $0.59, from the current rate of $16.35 per hour to $16.94 per hour. LiveNOW from FOX
• [New] Virginia is another state that will raise its minimum wage to $12.77 an hour in the new year. Washington Examiner
• [New] In New York, laws going into effect in 2026 will reshape everyday life, from upping the minimum wage to new rules for delivery workers, tipping, and pay transparency. Washington Examiner
• [New] A major Social Security change in 2026 will raise the wage cap, making some workers pay more payroll tax. Economic Times
• [New] Washington will become the state with the highest minimum wage, offering employees a floor of $17.13 per hour in 2026. KXTV
• [New] Starting in 2026, there will be higher salary requirements for obtaining an EU Blue Card. IamExpat in Germany
• [New] California state minimum wage will increase to $16.90 per hour and the salary minimum for California exempt-status employees will increase to $70,304 annually. Munger, Tolles & Olson LLP
• [New] With inflation moderating, wage growth stabilizing, and interest rates potentially trending down in 2026, many households will have an opportunity to strengthen financial foundations. Wedbush Securities
• [New] Mortgage rates will fall to 6.15% by the end of 2026 (Bright MLS). RealEstateNews.com
• [New] Most Canadian employers plan to keep salary increases at 2025 levels in 2026, signalling a cautious approach to compensation even as they brace for economic headwinds. Benefits and Pensions Monitor
• [New] Minimum wage: Nineteen states and 49 cities and counties will see minimum wage increases, including Arizona, Montana, Nebraska, Ohio, South Dakota, and Virginia. National Council of Nonprofits
• [New] Turkey's labour unions are stepping up pressure for a substantial increase in the 2026 minimum wage as negotiations are expected to begin this week, arguing that the current 22,104 lira ($521) floor wage has been eroded by inflation and no longer covers basic needs for millions of households. Turkish Minute
• There is an average 12-year gap between Australians' lifespan and healthspan that will reshape how people experience ageing, from the jobs they hold in their 60s and 70s to the products they buy, the health care they receive, and the way they plan for retirement. UNSW Sites
• Since the First Guardian and Shield managed investment schemes were wound up in April, thousands of Australians have faced devastating financial consequences, and now face the possibility they will not recover their retirement savings. Australian Broadcasting Corporation
• The 2026 minimum wage changes mark a major milestone for U.S. labour policy. Rebel Cause

Last updated: 05 January 2026