Lowes Foods Weekly Ad: 5/21-5/27

Jimmy3

Here is a list of the deals from the new Lowes Foods weekly ad that will run through 5/27. Get Challenge butter for $2.99 and more.

Buy One Get Ones

Nathan’s Angus Beef Franks, 11-12 oz, at $8.99 ($4.49)
Oscar Mayer Beef Hot Dogs, selected, 10 ct., at $8.99 ($4.49)
Wagyu Jalapeno and Cheese Smoked Sausage, selected, 14 oz, at $9.99 ($4.99)
SausageWorks Breakfast Sausage, selected, 12 oz, at $5.99 ($2.99)
Smokehouse Pulled Pork, with or without sauce, 16 oz, at $6.99 ($3.49) where available
Beyond Burger, 2 ct., at $7.49 ($3.74)
Lowes Foods Cooked Tail-On Shrimp, 16/20 ct. 16 oz, at $24.99 ($12.49)
Argentine Shrimp, 20/40 ct. 16 oz, at $21.99 ($10.99)
Lowes Foods EZ Peel Shrimp, 16/20 ct. 16 oz, at $17.99 ($8.99)
Argentine Shrimp, 11/15 ct. 32 oz, at $31.99 ($15.99)
Johnny’s Seafood Butterfly or Coconut Shrimp, selected, 8 oz, (price not listed)
Chef’s Net Crab Claw Meat, selected, 16 oz, at $17.99 ($8.99)
Kraft Singles, selected, 10.7-12 oz, at $4.89 ($2.44)
Breakstone’s Cottage Cheese, selected, (price not listed)
Breyers Ice Cream, selected, 1.5 qt., at $6.99 ($3.49)
-2000 points WYB Breyers Non-Dairy products, limit 5, enter code N0REC before first receipt to get 2000 Bonus points, Fetch Rewards mobile app
Bakery Cookies, selected, 12 ct., at $5.99 ($2.99)
Maxwell House Coffee, selected, 9.9-10.3 oz, at $8.99 ($4.49)
Luzianne Family Size Tea, selected, 18-24 ct., at $3.99 ($1.99)
Ballpark Hamburger or Hot Dog Buns, selected, 8 ct., at $3.99 ($1.99)
Thomas’ English Muffins, selected, 6 pk , at $5.29 ($2.64)
King’s Hawaiian Pretzel Sliders or Hamburger Buns, 9 ct. or 4 ct., at $5.89 ($2.94)
Utz or Zapp’s Chips, selected, 7.75-9.3 oz, at $4.79 ($2.39)
Nature’s Truth Vitamins, selected, 30-160 ct., (price not listed) prices vary
-$1.25 off Nature’s Truth vitamins or supplements, select, limit 1, Ibotta mobile app

Produce

Whole Watermelon, $4.99 ea.
$2.99 with Lowes Foods digital coupon, limit (2)
Cantaloupe, $3.99 ea.
Lemons or Limes, 50¢ ea.

Meat

Chef’s Choice Fully Cooked Baby Back Ribs, 1.25 lb, B2G3FREE at $16.99
(makes them $6.80 each)
Grass Fed or USDA Select Boneless Ribeye Steak, family pack, $9.99 lb
$3 Off (1) pkg Lowes Foods digital coupon, limit (2)
Prairie Fresh Pork Loin, selected, 18.4-28 oz, $6.99
$4.99 with Lowes Foods digital coupon, limit (2)
Bubba Burger, selected, 32 oz, $16.99
$10.99 with Lowes Foods digital coupon, limit (2)
Certified Angus Beef Schweid & Sons Butcher’s Blend Ground Beef, 16 oz, $7.99
$5.99 with Lowes Foods digital coupon, limit (2)
Schweid & Sons Signature Blend Sliders, selected, 20 oz, $10.99
$8.99 with Lowes Foods digital coupon
Smokehouse Whole Smoked Chicken, $9.99
$6.99 with Lowes Foods digital coupon
Ball Park Meat Franks, selected, 15 oz, $3
Kayem Hot Dogs or Kielbasa, selected, 14 oz, $5.99
$3.99 with Lowes Foods digital coupon, limit (2)
Smokehouse Center Cut, Applewood, Regular or Pepper Bacon, 12 oz, $3.99
Oscar Mayer Deli Shaved or Fresh Lunch Meat, selected, 7.5-8 oz, $5.99
$3.99 with Lowes Foods digital coupon, limit (2)
Carolina Pride Ham, selected, 10 oz, $3.49
$1.99 with Lowes Foods digital coupon, limit (2)
Freshie Shrimp Bowls, selected, 8 oz, $4.99

Fridge or Frozen

Sabra Hummus or Guacamole, selected, 10 oz, $3.50
Oscar Mayer P3 Protein Pack, selected, 2 oz, B3G3FREE at $3
(makes them $1.50 each)
Oscar Mayer Lunchables, selected, 2.25-4.4 oz, B3G3FREE at $3.49
(makes them $1.75 each)
Challenge Butter Sticks, selected, 16 oz, $4.99
-.50/1 Challenge Butter printable
-$1 off Challenge Butter Cubes, 16 oz salted or unsalted, limit 5, Ibotta mobile app
(use printable and Ibotta, makes it $2.99)
Lowes Foods Shredded or Chunk Cheese, selected, 6-8 oz, B2G2FREE at $3.49
(makes them $1.75 each)
Tillamook Cheese, selected, 7-8 oz, $3
Lowes Foods Cubed Cheese, selected, 8 oz, $2.50
Chobani Greek Yogurt, selected, 4 pk 5.3 oz cups, $4
Nestle Coffee-Mate Iced Coffee, selected, 50 oz, $3.50
Ore-Ida Just Crack an Egg Scramble Kit, selected, 3 oz, $2
Green Giant Simply Steam Frozen Vegetables, selected, 7.5-8 oz, $1.25
Big Mozz Mozzarella Sticks or Nuggets, selected, 13.44 oz, $5.99
Reddi Wip Whipped Topping, selected, 6.5 oz, $2.50
Cool Whip Whipped Topping, selected, 8 oz, $2
$1.50 each with Lowes Foods digital coupon
Lindy’s Italian Ice, selected, 6 ct., $2
Yasso Frozen Greek Yogurt Bars, selected, 4 ct., $4.50
Nestle Drumstick or Oreo Ice Cream Novelties, selected, 6-20 ct., $7.99
$6.99 with Lowes Foods digital coupon
Klondike Ice Cream Bars, selected, 6 ct., $4
-$2/2 Klondike Bars, any 6-ct, limit 1, Ibotta mobile app
(use Ibotta, makes them $3 each)
Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream, selected, 15.2-16 oz, $4
Talenti Gelato, Sorbetto or Layers, selected, 10.7-16 oz, $4
-$2/2 Magnum item or Talenti items, Lowes Foods (EXP 5/21) eCoupon
-750 points WYB Talenti Gelato Layers, limit 5, enter code N0REC before first receipt to get 2000 Bonus points, Fetch Rewards mobile app
-500 points WYB Talenti products, limit 5, enter code N0REC before first receipt to get 2000 Bonus points, Fetch Rewards mobile app
(use eCoupon and Fetch, makes them $3 each and earn as much as 1000 points)

Grocery

Kraft Salad Dressing, selected, 14-16 oz, $2.50
$2 each (must buy 2) with Lowes Foods digital coupon, limit (4)
Hellmann’s Real Mayonnaise, 20 oz, $5.99
$3.99 with Lowes Foods digital coupon, limit (1)
Hellmann’s Real Mayonnaise, selected, 30 oz, $5.99
$3.99 with Lowes Foods digital coupon, limit (1)
Kraft Mayonnaise, selected, 30 oz, $4
$3.50 each (must buy 2) with Lowes Foods digital coupon, limit (4)
Kraft Miracle Whip, selected, 30 oz, $5
$4.50 each (must buy 2) with Lowes Foods digital coupon, limit (4)
Heinz Simply Ketchup, 31 oz, $5
$4.50 each (must buy 2) with Lowes Foods digital coupon, limit (4)
Heinz Ketchup, 38 oz, $4
$3.50 each (must buy 2) with Lowes Foods digital coupon, limit (4)
Kraft Barbecue Sauce, 18 oz, $1.50
Heinz 57 Sauce, 10 oz, $4
Heinz Flavor Tour Sauce, 10 oz, $2.50
Tari Hot Sauce, selected, 11.8 oz, $3.99
Kraft Mac & Cheese Dinner, selected, 7.25 oz, $1.25
Saucy Spoon Baked Beans, selected, 28 oz, $2
Van Camp’s Pork & Beans, selected, 28 oz, $1.50
Castleberry’s Hot Dog Chili Sauce, selected, 10 oz, $1
Mario Olives, 2.25 oz, 99¢
Hanover Canned Vegetables, selected, 38-39 oz, $2.50
Knorr Sides, selected, 4.2-5.7 oz, $1.25
$1 each (must buy 4) with Lowes Foods digital coupon
-100 points WYB Knorr Sides, limit 5, enter code N0REC before first receipt to get 2000 Bonus points, Fetch Rewards mobile app
(use Fetch to earn 400 points)
Minute Ready to Serve Rice, selected, 8.8 oz, $2
Sticky Fingers Pancake or Waffle Mix, selected, 16-20 oz, $3.49
$2.49 with Lowes Foods digital coupon, limit (4)
Sticky Fingers Baking Mix, selected, 16 oz, $3.99
$2.99 with Lowes Foods digital coupon, limit (1)
Baker’s Bar, selected, 4 oz, $3.50
Golden Blossom Honey, 24 oz, $9.99
$7.99 with Lowes Foods digital coupon, limit (1)
Starbucks Coffee, selected, $7.99
-$5 off Starbucks Sunsera Blend Coffee, 12 oz whole bean or ground, limit 1, Ibotta mobile app
-$5 off Starbucks Sunsera Blend Coffee, 10 or 22-ct K-cup, limit 1, Ibotta mobile app
(use Ibotta (if included), makes it $2.99)
Kellogg’s Pop Tarts, selected, 12 ct., $3
-$1/2 Kellogg’s Pop-Tarts Toaster Pastries or Bites printable
-$3/4 Kellogg’s Pop-Tarts, Rice Krispies Treats, Nutri-Grain, limit 1, cannot use with other coupons, Checkout 51 mobile app
(use Checkout 51, makes them $2.25 each)
Kellogg’s Rice Krispies Treats, selected, 6-8 ct., $2.50
-.50/1 Kellogg’s Rice Krispies Treats Crispy Marshmallow Squares printable
-$1/2 Kellogg’s Rice Krispies Treats Crispy Marshmallow Squares (EXP 5/27) printable (limit reached)
-$3/4 Kellogg’s Pop-Tarts, Rice Krispies Treats, Nutri-Grain, limit 1, cannot use with other coupons, Checkout 51 mobile app
(use printable, makes it $1.50)
Pepperidge Farm Goldfish, selected, 5.5-8 oz, B2G1FREE at $3.69
(makes them $2.46 each)
Pepperidge Farm Cookies, selected, 5.9-8.6 oz, B2G1FREE at $4.99
(makes them $3.33 each)
Club Crackers, selected, 11-13.7 oz, $3
-$1.25/2 Town House or Club or Cheez-It Baked Snack Crackers printable
-$3/4 Kellanova Cheez-It, Club, TownHouse and/or Pringles, 3.4 oz+ printable
-$3/4 Kellanova Cheez-It, Club, TownHouse or Pringles, 3.4 oz+, Lowes Foods eCoupon
-$3/4 Kellogg’s Cheez-It, Club, TownHouse, or Pringles 3.4 oz, limit 1, cannot use with other coupons, Checkout 51 mobile app
-$3/4 Kellanova Cheez-It, Club, TownHouse or Pringles, 3.4 oz+ printable
(use $3/4, makes them $2 each)
Pringles Mingles, selected, 5.5 oz, $3.50
$3 each (must buy 2) with Lowes Foods digital coupon
-.75/2 Pringles items printable
-$3/4 Kellanova Cheez-It, Club, TownHouse and/or Pringles, 3.4 oz+ printable
-$3/4 Kellanova Cheez-It, Club, TownHouse or Pringles, 3.4 oz+, Lowes Foods eCoupon
-$3/4 Kellogg’s Cheez-It, Club, TownHouse, or Pringles 3.4 oz, limit 1, cannot use with other coupons, Checkout 51 mobile app
-$3/4 Kellanova Cheez-It, Club, TownHouse or Pringles, 3.4 oz+ printable
(use .75/2, makes them $2.75 each)
Frito-Lay Multipack Snacks, selected, 18-20 ct., $9.99
-$2 off Frito-Lay Variety Pack, 18 ct+ and (1) Pepsi, Mtn Dew or Starry 12 pack printable
-$1 off Frito-Lay Variety Pack, any 18 ct, limit 5, Ibotta mobile app
(use printable and Ibotta, makes it $6.99)
Frito-Lay Lay’s Potato or Kettle Chips, selected, 4.75-9 oz, B2G2FREE at $4.99
(makes them $2.50 each)
Town House Crackers, selected, 9-13.8 oz, $3
-$1.25/2 Town House or Club or Cheez-It Baked Snack Crackers printable
(use printable, makes them $2.38 each)
Nabisco Ritz Crackers, selected, 8.8-13.7 oz, $3.50
$2.50 each (must buy 2) with Lowes Foods digital coupon
Stacy’s Bagel or Pita Chips, selected, 7-7.33 oz, $3.50
-$1 off buy (2) Off the Eaten Path 4.5 oz, or Stacy’s pita chips 4 oz+, AND (1) bubly sparkling water 8-pk printable
-.50/1 Stacy’s pita chips, any 4 oz+ printable
(use .50/1 printable, makes it $2.50)
Fisher Oven Roasted Mixed Nuts, 24 oz, $19.99
$16.99 with Lowes Foods digital coupon
Fisher Oven Roasted Pecans, selected, 17 oz, $12.99
$9.99 with Lowes Foods digital coupon

Beverages

Pepsi Products, selected, 12 pk 12 oz cans, B2G2FREE at $10.49
-$2 off Frito-Lay Variety Pack, 18 ct+ and (1) Pepsi, Mtn Dew or Starry 12 pack printable
-$3/4 Pepsi Multipk item, excl single serve, Lowes Foods eCoupon
-$3/4 Pepsi-Cola Participating Beverages printable
-$3/4 Pepsi-Cola Beverages, limit 1, cannot use with other coupons, Checkout 51 mobile app
(use $3/4, makes them $4.50 each)
Coke Minis Products, selected, 10 pk 7.5 oz cans, B2G1FREE at $8.79
(makes them $5.86 each)
Kitu Super Coffee, selected, 12 oz , $2.50
$2 each (must buy 2) with Lowes Foods digital coupon, limit (2)
Bodyarmor Sport Water, 23.7 oz, $1
-$1/2 BodyArmor SportWater (sign up) printable
-$1/2 Bodyarmor item, Flash IV Ready to Drink or Sport item, limit 1, cannot use with other coupons, Checkout 51 mobile app
(use either, makes them 50¢ each)
Bodyarmor Drinks, selected, 16 oz, $1
-$1/2 Bodyarmor item, Flash IV Ready to Drink or Sport item, limit 1, cannot use with other coupons, Checkout 51 mobile app
(use Checkout 51, makes them 50¢ each)
Red Bull Products, selected, 12 oz, B2G1FREE at $3.49
(makes them $2.33 each)
Celsius Drinks, selected, 12 pk 12 oz cans, $19.99
Snapple Beverages, selected, 6 pk 16 oz bottles, $5.99
Aquafina Water, selected, 24 pk 16.9 oz bottles, $4.99
Lipton Pure Leaf Tea, selected, 6 pk 16.9 oz bottles, B2G1FREE at $8.99
(makes them $5.99 each)
Deer Park Water, selected, 12 pk 8 oz, 12 pk 12 oz or Sports Bottle 6 pk 23.7 oz, $2.50
20% Off Any Combination of (6) Bottles, Boxes or Cans Wines
-$5 off ElementAL Wine, select 750 mL, limit 3, Ibotta mobile app
-3500 points WYB Franciscan Wine, 750mL+, limit 3, enter code N0REC before first receipt to get 2000 Bonus points, Fetch Rewards mobile app
-1500 points WYB (2) Andre Champagne or Sparkling Wines, limit 3, enter code N0REC before first receipt to get 2000 Bonus points, Fetch Rewards mobile app
-4000 points WYB Franciscan Wine and Hahn Wine and William Hill Wine, limit 3, enter code N0REC before first receipt to get 2000 Bonus points, Fetch Rewards mobile app (limit reached)
-2750 points WYB Lolli Sweet Wines, limit 3, enter code N0REC before first receipt to get 2000 Bonus points, Fetch Rewards mobile app
-2700 points WYB Barefoot, Apothic, La Marca, Whitehaven, Black Box, or Gallo Wines, purchase $20, limit 3, enter code N0REC before first receipt to get 2000 Bonus points, Fetch Rewards mobile app
-3000 points WYB BEV Wines, limit 3, enter code N0REC before first receipt to get 2000 Bonus points, Fetch Rewards mobile app
-700 points WYB Dark Horse Wine, 750mL+, limit 3, enter code N0REC before first receipt to get 2000 Bonus points, Fetch Rewards mobile app
-5000 points WYB Franciscan Wine and Hahn Wine and William Hill Wine, limit 3, enter code N0REC before first receipt to get 2000 Bonus points, Fetch Rewards mobile app
-1250 points WYB La Marca Wine, 750mL+, limit 3, enter code N0REC before first receipt to get 2000 Bonus points, Fetch Rewards mobile app
-750 points WYB Liberty Creek Wine, 750mL+, limit 3, enter code N0REC before first receipt to get 2000 Bonus points, Fetch Rewards mobile app
-3500 points WYB Smith & Hook Wine, limit 3, enter code N0REC before first receipt to get 2000 Bonus points, Fetch Rewards mobile app
-1000 points WYB Stella Rosa Wine, 750ml+, limit 4, enter code N0REC before first receipt to get 2000 Bonus points, Fetch Rewards mobile app
-1250 points WYB Taylor Port Wine, 750mL+, limit 3, enter code N0REC before first receipt to get 2000 Bonus points, Fetch Rewards mobile app
Ultra, Bud, Miller, Coors or Yuengling Products, selected, 24 pk 12 oz bottles or cans, $20.99
$17.88 with Lowes Foods digital coupon, limit (4)
-1000 points WYB Coors Banquet, 6pk+, limit 3, enter code N0REC before first receipt to get 2000 Bonus points, Fetch Rewards mobile app
-5000 points WYB Molson Coors products, purchase $50, limit 3, enter code N0REC before first receipt to get 2000 Bonus points, Fetch Rewards mobile app
New Belgium, Sierra Nevada, Corona or White Claw Products, selected, 12 pk 12 oz cans or bottles, $17.99
$14.88 with Lowes Foods digital coupon, limit (4)

Household

Tide or Gain Laundry Detergent or Bounce Fabric Softener Sheets, selected, 12-16 ct. or 34 oz or 16 ct. or 46 oz or 120 ct., $5
-$15 Visa Gift Card WYB $50 in P&G Participating Products: Tide, Downy, Bounce, Gain, Dreft, Bounty, Charmin, Dawn, Cascade, Pampers, Always, Tampax, Herbal Essences, Head & Shoulders Bare, Gillette, Venus, Olay Skin, Old Spice, or Crest, Online rebate
-$1 off Tide Laundry Detergent, 30-42 oz, excl Rinse, PODS, purclean, Rescue, Studio or Simply Laundry Detergent, Simply PODS, Detergent 10 oz, & trial size, Lowes Foods (EXP 5/24) eCoupon
-$1 off Tide PODS Laundry Detergent 12-20 ct or Power PODS Laundry Detergent 9-10 ct, excl Rinse, Liquid/Powder Laundry Detergent, Simply or Simply PODS, Tide PODS 9 ct- & trial size, Lowes Foods (EXP 5/24) eCoupon
(use eCoupon, makes it $4)
Dawn Dish Soap, selected, 12.2-18 oz, $2.99
-$15 Visa Gift Card WYB $50 in P&G Participating Products: Tide, Downy, Bounce, Gain, Dreft, Bounty, Charmin, Dawn, Cascade, Pampers, Always, Tampax, Herbal Essences, Head & Shoulders Bare, Gillette, Venus, Olay Skin, Old Spice, or Crest, Online rebate
Kingsford Barbecue Combo Platter, 28 oz, $12.99
$9.99 with Lowes Foods digital coupon, limit (2)
Mr. Bar-B-Q All Natural Hardwood Lump Charcoal, 16 lb, $9.99

Pet Care

Friskies Dry Cat Food, selected, 16 lb, $15.99
-$4 off Friskies Tender & Crunch’d or Gravy Swirl’d Dry Cat Food, 12 lb+ bag (EXP 5/25) printable (limit reached)
(use printable (if included), makes it $11.99)
Friskies Canned Cat Food, selected, 5.5 oz, 88¢

Here is a list of the deals from the new Lowes Foods weekly ad that will run through 5/27. Get Challenge butter for $2.99 and more. Buy One Get Ones Nathan’s Angus Beef Franks, 11-12 oz, at $8.99 ($4.49) Oscar Mayer Beef Hot Dogs, selected, 10 ct., at $8.99 ($4.49) Wagyu Jalapeno and Cheese SmokedRead More

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From Loyal to Fed Up: Tesla Owners Are Selling Fast — Here's Why It Matters

Getty Images / jetcityimageElon Musk's recent behavior, including his efforts to shut down numerous federal agencies and programs, has had a dramatic impact on the car company he runs and owns a large stake in, Tesla. Not only are sales of new Teslas down significantly both domestically and abroad, at a time when electric vehicle sales overall are up, but growing numbers of current owners are abandoning their Teslas for other automakers' vehicles.Tesla owners who are thinking of trading in or selling could be surprised by how little they're able to recoup. Here are some of the driving factors and their implications for EV drivers. Key TakeawaysPrices for used Teslas have been falling, reducing their trade-in and resale value.Political disagreement with Elon Musk's actions is one reason for the glut in used models, but not the only one.Tesla owners can get an estimate of what their Tesla is currently worth by using an online calculator.What's Behind Tesla's Lower Values As more used Teslas have hit the market, the demand for them has not kept pace and prices have fallen accordingly.As the headline on a CNN Business report described the situation in late March of 2025, "The Used Tesla Market Is Crumbling." At that point, the article noted, "used Tesla prices are falling at more than double the rate of the average used car price," based on data from the automotive website CarGurus.The decline may not be entirely due to Tesla owners' displeasure with Musk as the trend in lowering values dates back to at least the summer of 2024. Among the driving factors: a series of steep price cuts on new Teslas in recent years and a greater selection of used EVs from other automakers. In addition, the article noted, "electric vehicles tend to depreciate in value 11% more rapidly" than gasoline-powered ones.What Tesla Owners Can ExpectTesla owners hoping to trade in their Tesla for another vehicle, or simply sell it to someone else, may be disappointed by how much money they'll get in return. In a worst-case scenario, if they have an auto loan, they might find that they owe more on the car than they could get for it, as some owners have reported on social media.For those who lease their Tesla rather than own it, they might just want to ride it out to the end of the lease. That's assuming they're not worried about the reports of vandalism and harassment directed toward Tesla drivers.Owners can get a rough idea of what their Tesla might be worth by using an online calculator. The automotive site Edmunds, for example, has an online calculator that will give an estimate after inputting the car's year and model. It says it can provide a more precise estimate if users enter their car's license plate number or VIN.WarningBear in mind that if Tesla's resale values continue to fall, any estimate someone gets today could be overly optimistic in the future. The Bottom Line Tesla owners who are angry with Elon Musk or don't want to be associated with him are in a tough spot: They can either continue to drive their cars or they can sell, possibly at a substantial loss.
Managing S&P 500 Investment Risks: Strategies You Need to Know

Fact checked by Vikki VelasquezInvestopedia / Michela Buttignol Routine portfolio rebalancing is one strategy to help mitigate investing risk.The S&P 500, or Standard & Poor's 500, comprises around 500 of the U.S.'s largest publicly traded companies and has historically delivered strong long-term returns. Investing in the S&P 500, as a proxy for the market, feels like betting on the U.S. to win. But like any investment, the S&P 500 isn't all growth and no groans. Investors hoping to include the S&P 500 in their portfolios should learn the risks of the S&P 500, such as concentration and valuation risk, and what strategies can minimize that risk while still harnessing the S&P 500's power in their portfolios. Key Takeaways The S&P 500 is a major stock market index with inherent risks such as concentration and volatility.Concentration risk arises from the dominance of large-cap stocks, especially in technology.Historical volatility and market cycles can significantly impact S&P 500 investments.Diversification and regular portfolio rebalancing are key strategies to manage investment risks.Understanding individual risk tolerance is crucial for aligning investment strategies.Understanding the S&P 500The S&P 500 is an index that tracks the performance of approximately 500 of the U.S.'s largest publicly traded companies. The companies in the S&P 500 span market sectors such as technology, consumer staples, health care, and financials. Together, these companies make up about 80% of the total value of all U.S. stocks, making the S&P 500 synonymous with "market" and the proxy report card for how the entire U.S. market is doing.There is one caveat, however, to making market assumptions based solely on the S&P 500. Larger companies have more influence over the market's returns. If a few large companies are doing well, the market will look like it's booming, even if smaller companies are riding the returns struggle bus. Key Risks of Investing in the S&P 500The returns of the S&P 500 are hard to beat even by seasoned professionals. This makes investing in ETFs or mutual funds that track the S&P 500 tracking ETFs or mutual index funds an attractive option for many investors. However, no investment is without risks, and the S&P 500 has its fair share of vulnerabilities that can upset the apple cart, especially in the short term.Here are some key risks of investing in the S&P 500 that investors should consider before entering the market:Concentration RiskThe S&P 500 includes company stocks from all major market sectors, but larger companies have more impact on S&P 500 returns. Currently, the S&P 500 has mega-cap tech stocks, commonly called "Magnificent Seven," driving a significant portion of the index's performance. A rising tide lifts all boats, where the tech companies and the S&P 500 are concerned. Unfortunately, the reverse is true as well: stumbles in the technology sector can cause the whole market to fall. The weight of stocks in this sector and its disproportionate effect on the overall market introduces concentration risk for investors without assets outside the index.Volatility and Market CyclesThe S&P 500 has a strong growth history, but the growth is not linear, and the market is immune to market downturns. Think of market performance like a bouncing ball while walking upstairs. Will the ball end up much higher eventually? Sure. But getting to the top is full of ups and downs. The S&P 500 has endured its fair share of bear markets and corrections since it started tracking 500 stocks in 1957. Even the steadiest investors with a firm understanding of market cycles can get shaken up by nasty bear markets like the 51.9% drop over 1.1 years from 2007-2009. ImportantShort-term volatility is particularly worrisome for investors with a low risk tolerance or those nearing retirement.Valuation RisksBull runs can lead to periods of high optimism where investors flood the market to chase potential earnings. Price, impacted by supply and demand, may reach unsustainable levels during periods with a high volume of trading activity, creating valuation risk. If conditions change, like interest rate hikes or disappointing earnings, the overinflated stock prices deflate quickly when demand tapers.Economic and Geopolitical FactorsThe S&P 500 is very sensitive to economic and geopolitical factors because, no matter the strength of the underlying companies, they do not exist in a bubble. Valuation comes from profits, stock prices, and future outlooks. The market hates uncertainty. Rising interest rates, inflation, global conflicts, recessions, tariffs, shrinking GDP, or the threat of these events can depress share prices. Historical Performance and Lessons LearnedThe S&P 500, representing the broader U.S. market, has a history of long-term growth, but it has not always been a smooth ride for investors to the top. The S&P 500 averages a bear market, where stock prices decline 20% or more, once every six to 10 years. These major downturns can spook investor confidence in the short term. However, investors with time on their side can ride out short-term losses for long-term gains. Major DownturnsThe S&P 500 endured 22 bear markets since 1928, but most investors probably remember just a few.Most remember the dotcom bubble bursting, sending the S&P 500 tumbling nearly 50%. In this instance, investor enthusiasm and market demand drove prices for these newfangled internet startups beyond sustainable levels. The prices held on for a while until the mild recession and the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks, which caused contracted prices and tech-heavy investors to suffer the consequences of valuation and diversification risk.Investors probably also remember one of American history's steepest and severest bear markets. In the Global Financial Crisis of 2007-2009, the S&P 500 fell more than 55%. This financial collapse, triggered by overvaluation and subprime lending in the U.S. housing market, lit a match that burned much of the global economy because foreign banks had large holdings of U.S. mortgage-backed securities. NoteThe global impact of that crisis affected nearly all investors as economic activity stalled and all sectors suffered.Recovery PatternsDespite the impact of market downturns, the S&P 500 has a strong track record of recovery. It may not be fast, but we all remember the fable of the tortoise and the hare.After the dotcom crash, the market took nearly seven years to recover fully, and the recovery was followed almost immediately by the Great Recession. Thankfully, the 2008 bear market recovery took only four years.The cyclical nature of market rise and fall highlights some important lessons for investors. Those who remained cool, calm, and collected despite economic or geopolitical shockwaves to the S&P 500 were often rewarded in the long run as markets recovered. The S&P 500's turbulent history confirms that investors with a long-term investing mindset, diversification, and emotional regulation reap rewards. Strategies To Manage RisksThere are some time-tested strategies investors can use to mitigate risks associated with the S&P 500 while keeping it a core asset in their portfolio.DiversificationDon't put all your eggs in one index. The S&P 500 includes a diverse range of sectors, but it still concentrates heavily on large and mega-cap stocks. The history of market cycles shows us that even with a solid track record of growth, only investing in the S&P 500 through ETFs or mutual index funds is risky. Investors can reduce that risk by investing in assets like small-cap funds, international stocks, real estate, alternative investments, or fixed income investments like bonds and certificates of deposit.Risk Assessment and ToleranceJust because you know what goes up must come down, doesn't mean you're prepared to wait out the drop. Investment success is not just picking shooting star assets; it's also about feeling comfortable and confident in your decisions when your shooting stars start to fade. Consider consulting a financial advisor or using online risk tolerance questionnaires to determine your capacity for risk. This can help you decide how much of your portfolio belongs in the S&P 500 and other assets.Long-Term Investment ApproachThe S&P has had some fantastic gains and terrible losses over the years, but has an average growth of 10% yearly since the index expanded to 500 stocks in 1957. That 10% annual return doesn't come from trying to time the market perfectly; it comes from getting in and staying in it. A long-term investment strategy works for equity investments because, with time on your side, you have time for your portfolio to recover from inevitable market downturns.Regular Portfolio RebalancingRegular portfolio rebalancing is an important risk mitigation strategy because some assets may grow faster than others, which can throw off your target allocation. Rebalancing at regular intervals ensures that your portfolio remains aligned with your risk tolerance, goals, and timeline. Is It Possible for the S&P 500 To Crash?Yes. Since the S&P expanded to 500 indexed stocks in 1957, the market has crashed multiple times, but each time it has recovered.What Share of My Portfolio Should I Keep In the S&P 500?Your timeline, goals, and risk tolerance will drive the share of your portfolio in large-cap stocks like the S&P 500. Younger investors may prefer a higher allocation of the S&P 500 in their portfolio, up to 90%, but many investors find 60% large-cap equities a sweet spot. What Are Some Alternative Investment Options to the S&P 500 for Diversification?The S&P 500 is an index composed entirely of large and mega-cap stocks, so investors could diversify their portfolios by considering small-cap stocks, real estate investments, commodities, or income-producing assets like bonds. How Frequently Should an Investor Rebalance Their Portfolio To Manage Risks Effectively?At a minimum, investors should rebalance annually. Many investors prefer to rebalance semi-annually or when any asset class drifts more than 10% from its target allocation. The Bottom LineInvestments tracking the S&P 500 offer investors broad exposure to 500 of the U.S.'s largest publicly traded companies. Even though the S&P 500 has a history of strong performance, it is not risk-free. To make good decisions, investors must understand the risks of investing in the S&P 500, like its concentration in big tech, valuation concerns, and volatility. If you choose to add ETFs or mutual funds that track the S&P 500 to your portfolio, you can manage these risks by diversification, regular portfolio rebalancing, and aligning investments with your risk tolerance, timeline, and goals.
More Americans Are Working Beyond 65. Here's What It Means for Your Retirement Plans

Halfpoint Images / Getty ImagesThe percentage of Americans 65 and older in the workforce nearly doubled from 11% in 1987 to 19% in 2023, when over 11 million Americans in that age group were working or actively seeking work. And workers age 75 and older are the fastest-growing age group in the workforce, according to Pew Research Center.For some, working longer represents opportunity and personal choice. To be sure, improved health and activity among older Americans and rising education levels have contributed to this trend. Over half (53%) of working adults 65 or older had college degrees in 2019 — a significant increase from 25% in 1985.For others, however, the trend reflects mounting economic pressures and diminished retirement security. Some people work out of financial necessity due to inadequate retirement savings, declining pension coverage, and the shift to less secure 401(k) plans.We'll explain this trend below and share advice for people who want to be better prepared for retirement.Key TakeawaysThe percentage of older Americans remaining in the workforce has grown significantly over the last 40 years.This trend reflects both positive developments and harsh realities about retirement security.While some continue to work because they choose to, many others continue working out of necessity due to limited retirement savings.An Aging WorkforceThe growth in the 65-and-older workforce since the 1980s stems partly from demographic shifts, as the populous Baby Boomer generation reached retirement age. But it also reflects their changing attitudes toward work and retirement, along with changes in the financial health of many older Americans.Mandatory retirement due to age is illegal in the U.S. in most cases, though many older workers still report being pushed out of jobs before they would have retired willingly. Improved health care and longer life expectancy also make extending careers more viable, while technology has reduced physical demands in many occupations.But even as we celebrate staying active while aging, there are fewer financial safety nets that once supported dignified retirement. The narrative of "working by choice" can mask a systemic failure to provide security for aging Americans. Changes to Social Security that raised the full retirement age from 65 to 67 have caused many older adults to delay retirement to increase benefit amounts. So has the shift from defined-benefit pensions to 401(k)s, which transferred retirement risk to individuals, leaving many with insufficient savings.ImportantAgeism remains a persistent challenge. Though illegal, age discrimination creates barriers for older workers seeking work or advancement opportunities.Preparing for RetirementA curious thing happened after the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic: Starting in March 2020, the percentage of people who expected to work full-time beyond the age of 62 dropped significantly, particularly among women and lower-income workers. In the six years prior to the pandemic, on average, 54.6% said they expected to work beyond 62. Meanwhile, from 2020 to 2024, 49.4%, on average, said the same, including a low of 45.8% in 2024. There were similar declines in expectations of working past 67.That suggests that older adults who continue to work might do so not because they want to, but out of absolute necessity.Whether you expect to stop working by age 62 or want to continue working into your 60s and beyond, here are some tips that can help you prepare for retirement when the time comes:Early CareerMaximize retirement contributions as early as possible, taking full advantage of employer matches.Save and invest as much as you can outside of traditional retirement accounts.Expect multi-generational teams at work and potentially delayed promotions due to older workers remaining in the workforce.Mid-CareerConduct a retirement readiness assessment with a financial advisor to identify shortfalls while there's still time to adjust.Prioritize health insurance continuity and consider disability income insurance, as medical costs can quickly erode savings.Consider housing decisions carefully, potentially downsizing earlier to reduce costs and build savings.Consider career pivots that might enable more longevity.Approaching traditional retirement age:Explore phased retirement options with your current employer before fully retiring.Maximize catch-up contributions to retirement accounts.Research employers and industries that value experience over youth.Consider relocating to areas with lower costs of living to extend financial resources.The Bottom LineWhile some older adults enjoy being active members of the workforce, others find themselves unable to retire due to their lack of savings. Maximizing retirement contributions as early as possible and investing as much as possible outside of traditional retirement accounts can boost retirement readiness. It can also help to check in with a financial advisor periodically to assess your financial situation and get advice on better retirement planning. As you get closer to retirement age, consider catch-up contributions to retirement accounts.