Financial Strategy: When to Save vs. Pay Down Student Loans
Deciding between saving or paying down student loans hinges on interest rate dynamics. Allocating a holiday bonus to high-yield savings accounts or certificates of deposit (CDs) becomes compelling when these instruments outpace student loan rates. Conversely, aggressive debt repayment wins when loan costs exceed potential savings yields.
Emergency funds demand priority regardless of rate differentials—liquidity trumps marginal gains. The calculus shifts with macroeconomic conditions: today's tightening labor market and persistent inflation make debt reduction a shield against payment shocks for many borrowers.