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7 Books That Teach You How to Make Better Decisions. AI-Generated.
Making the right decisions consistently is one of the most powerful skills we can develop in life. Every choice we make—whether in business, personal finance, relationships, or daily habits—shapes our future. Yet, decision-making is rarely straightforward. Cognitive biases, emotional impulses, and incomplete information often cloud our judgment. Fortunately, there are resources that can help us navigate this complex terrain. Books on decision-making not only provide frameworks for better choices but also equip us with insights from psychology, economics, and behavioral science.
By Diana Meresc19 days ago in BookClub
New Bilt Cards Exclude Tax Payments, eBay, Facebook Marketplace, and More. AI-Generated.
In an era where credit card perks and rewards often define consumer choices, Bilt, a relatively new player in the rewards credit card space, is making waves. The Bilt Mastercard has been praised for its unique offering: the ability to earn points on rent payments without transaction fees, something nearly unheard of in the credit card world. However, recent updates to the card’s terms have raised eyebrows, as certain payment categories—including tax payments and popular online marketplaces—are now excluded from earning rewards. This change, while not entirely unexpected, represents a shift in Bilt’s strategy. Here’s a closer look at what this means for users, why it matters, and how cardholders can adjust their spending strategies. Understanding Bilt’s Original Appeal Bilt entered the credit card market with a bold promise: allow renters to earn rewards on a recurring expense that traditionally offered no benefits. Most credit cards charge fees for paying rent via third-party platforms, but Bilt waived these, allowing cardholders to earn points toward travel, fitness, and other perks. Beyond rent, Bilt had positioned itself as a card that could compete in everyday spending. Early users enjoyed points accumulation on dining, travel, and select online purchases, making the card a versatile option for those looking to maximize rewards without paying high annual fees. The combination of no-fee rent payments and a decent points system made Bilt particularly attractive to younger professionals and urban renters who often see rent as their largest monthly expense. What’s Changing: Exclusions Explained Recently, Bilt updated its terms, and certain transactions no longer earn rewards points. The key exclusions now include: Tax Payments – Payments made toward federal, state, and local taxes through the IRS or third-party platforms will not earn rewards. eBay Purchases – Online auction and marketplace transactions are excluded from earning points. Facebook Marketplace Transactions – Payments made for goods sold or purchased via Facebook Marketplace are also excluded. Other Specified Categories – Certain peer-to-peer payment platforms, digital wallets, or non-traditional marketplaces may fall under the exclusion list. These exclusions appear aimed at reducing the risk of “gaming” the rewards system. For example, some users may have previously tried to convert taxable payments into points or exploit marketplaces to generate rewards at low cost. By cutting off these categories, Bilt protects its rewards pool while nudging users toward traditional spending categories. Why Bilt Made These Changes Credit card issuers regularly adjust their rewards programs to balance user benefits with financial sustainability. While this might feel like a downgrade, it is a common industry practice. Bilt’s exclusions likely serve several purposes: Financial Risk Management: Large-scale rewards redemption on tax payments or online marketplaces could increase the company’s exposure. Encouraging Core Spending: Bilt wants users to spend on categories that align with their strategic partnerships, like travel, dining, and fitness. Fraud Prevention: Peer-to-peer and marketplace transactions often carry higher risks of fraud or chargebacks. Excluding these categories helps mitigate potential losses. By narrowing the earning categories, Bilt ensures its rewards system remains sustainable while still offering benefits in other areas that appeal to its target demographic. How This Affects Bilt Cardholders For existing users, this change means some spending that previously earned points will no longer qualify. Tax payments, which can be substantial, and online marketplace transactions are common ways some cardholders maximized points. The good news is that the card still rewards rent payments, a feature that continues to set Bilt apart. Additionally, purchases in restaurants, fitness, travel, and select partner merchants still earn points, meaning everyday discretionary spending remains valuable. Cardholders can adapt in several ways: Separate Spending Categories: Use Bilt for rent and traditional spending, and another card for taxes or marketplace purchases. Plan Rewards Strategy: Focus on high-reward categories to offset the excluded spending. Track Transactions: Regularly monitor which purchases earn points to avoid surprises. These strategies allow users to continue making the most of Bilt’s rewards without losing the benefits of everyday spending. What This Means for the Credit Card Market Bilt’s exclusions are not unusual when compared to other major credit cards. Chase, American Express, and Citi frequently adjust bonus categories and exclusions to maintain profitability and avoid reward exploitation. However, Bilt’s model is still distinctive. Most cards don’t offer points on rent at all, and Bilt continues to cater to urban renters and younger professionals, a demographic often underserved by traditional credit card rewards programs. In a competitive rewards landscape, Bilt’s focus on rent and lifestyle perks—like fitness and travel rewards—helps differentiate it from mainstream credit cards. While some exclusions may disappoint users, the overall value proposition remains strong for its core audience. Key Takeaways Bilt remains unique: Rent payments still earn points without fees, a feature few cards offer. Exclusions are targeted: Tax payments, eBay, and Facebook Marketplace are excluded to protect the rewards ecosystem. Cardholders can adapt: Using multiple cards for different spending categories ensures optimal rewards accumulation. Market positioning is strategic: Bilt continues to appeal to younger renters who prioritize lifestyle rewards and travel perks. For anyone considering Bilt, it’s important to weigh the value of rent-based rewards against the limitations on other transactions. If your primary goal is to earn points on rent and everyday discretionary spending in eligible categories, Bilt still offers a compelling choice. For those who frequently pay taxes with a credit card or shop heavily on online marketplaces, a supplemental card may be necessary. Final Thoughts The new exclusions on Bilt cards highlight a tension in the credit card world: balancing generous rewards with financial sustainability. While some users may be disappointed, the core advantage—earning points on rent without fees—remains untouched, preserving the card’s unique appeal. Bilt is evolving, as all credit card programs do, but its focus on lifestyle and rent rewards ensures it continues to fill a niche that traditional credit cards have largely ignored. By understanding the exclusions and adjusting spending habits, cardholders can still make Bilt a valuable tool in their financial toolkit. In the end, the Bilt Mastercard proves that even in a crowded credit card market, innovation—especially around everyday expenses like rent—can offer meaningful benefits to the right audience, despite necessary limitations in some spending categories.
By Muhammad Hassan19 days ago in The Swamp
Kratom Powder Uses, Benefits, Dosage, and Buying Guide
Kratom powder is one of the most common forms of kratom used today. Many people choose it because it is flexible, fast acting, and easy to measure. If you are new to kratom or trying to decide whether powder is right for you, you likely have questions. What is kratom powder. How do people use it. What problems does it solve. This guide answers those questions in a clear and practical way.
By Jack Wilder19 days ago in Longevity
Small Business CRM Comparison Chart for Easy Selection. AI-Generated.
I still remember the spreadsheet. It was messy, color-coded, and full of half-finished notes. I had opened it with good intentions. All I wanted was a simple way to choose a CRM for a small team that was already stretched thin. Instead, I found myself lost in tabs, feature lists, and pricing tiers that seemed to change every time I refreshed a website.
By Jane Smith19 days ago in Futurism
Ultimate Guide to Content Marketing Services and Pricing Trends. AI-Generated.
I remember the first time I tried to price content work for a client. I sat at my desk late at night, calculator open, coffee cold, scrolling through blog after blog that promised clear answers. What I found instead was confusion. One site said content was cheap and fast. Another treated it like a luxury product reserved for big brands. None of it matched what I was actually seeing in real projects.
By Jane Smith19 days ago in 01
High-Speed Train Crash in Southern Spain Leaves 39 Dead. AI-Generated.
A Sunday evening in southern Spain turned into a national tragedy. On January 18, 2026, a high-speed train crash near Adamuz, Córdoba, left at least 39 people dead and scores more injured. The accident shocked Spain, challenged emergency responders, and raised urgent questions about safety on the country’s high-speed rail network.
By Aarif Lashari19 days ago in The Swamp
Popular Sports Apparel Retail Chain Files Chapter 11 Bankruptcy. AI-Generated.
In a surprising move that has sent shockwaves through the retail and sports industries, a popular sports apparel chain has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy. The announcement marks a major turning point for a brand that has long been a go-to destination for athletes and casual shoppers alike. While the company continues to operate during bankruptcy proceedings, the filing highlights broader challenges facing brick-and-mortar retail in an era of e-commerce and changing consumer habits.
By Muhammad Hassan19 days ago in The Swamp
Manly Shark Attack: The Tragedy That Changed How We See the Sea
The ocean often feels familiar. Waves repeat their rhythm. The shoreline feels welcoming. For generations, Manly Beach represented that comfort for countless swimmers and families. Then one moment shattered that sense of safety. The manly shark attack did more than take a life. It left a lasting emotional mark on a community and reshaped how people relate to the water. Even decades later, the story still surfaces in quiet conversations, cautious glances at the horizon, and the pause before stepping into the sea. This is not just a tale of danger. It is a story about memory, fear, respect for nature, and how a single event can echo across time.
By Muqadas khan19 days ago in Humans
Why Students Are Turning to a Humanizer AI Instead of Relying on AI Alone
Why Students Are Reconsidering AI-Only Writing in Academic Work Artificial intelligence tools have become deeply embedded in student workflows. From outlining essays to organizing research notes, AI has changed how students approach assignments. However, a noticeable shift is taking place in academic environments. Students who rely exclusively on AI-generated writing are increasingly encountering issues related to grading, feedback, and academic credibility.
By Abbasi Publisher19 days ago in Writers
Macron Urges EU to Deploy Trade ‘Bazooka’ Against US as Trump Ramps Up Tensions. AI-Generated.
Tensions between the United States and the European Union have escalated once again, as French President Emmanuel Macron called on EU leaders to deploy a “trade bazooka” in response to what he described as aggressive U.S. trade policies under former President Donald Trump. Macron’s remarks underscore growing frustration in Europe over tariffs, trade restrictions, and economic coercion, and signal a potential shift toward more assertive European countermeasures.
By Muhammad Hassan19 days ago in The Swamp
T.I. Previews Final Album "Kill The King" With New Pharrell-Produced Single
T.I. dropping new heat is welcome. His flow seems strong and his lyricism layered and catchy at the same time on the single “Let ‘Em Know.” It continues his unrelated “know” series along with “U Don’t Know Me” “What You Know” “You Know What It Is” and “Yeah You Know.” This single is in support of his reported final album, Kill The King (2026). Another throughline in his career which has included King (2006).
By Skyler Saunders19 days ago in Beat
