IFWF

Dr. Fan Yang PhD in Economics and Master’s in Mathematics IFWF Economic Department © International Foundation for World Freedom November 26, 2025 Introduction: Rethinking Taxes and Refunds   For many people, tax season feels stressful or confusing. Some just hope for a big refund and then spend it quickly. But did you know that a refund is not extra money? It usually means you paid too much in taxes during the year, and the government is giving your own money back.   Instead of dreading tax...

Po-Yen Hsu, M.S. Environment and Sustainability © International Foundation for World Freedom November 24, 2025 1. Summary The nature of work is undergoing a profound transformation. As artificial intelligence accelerates and gig platforms expand, millions of workers are shifting from traditional salaried roles to flexible, project-based careers. Young professionals, immigrants, and tech-influenced workers are at the center of this shift, drawn by opportunity, yet burdened by new financial...

© International Foundation for World Freedom Zoie Plyler, Research Assistant 17 November 2025 Why do most Americans struggle to save? Financial insecurity is a major source of stress for Americans—each year, a greater number of people view their financial situation as deteriorating. Borrowing and debt are also on the rise, and less than half of Americans surveyed by Pew Research in April 2025 say they have enough emergency savings to cover three months of living expenses. Overall, Americans...