Quote Originally Posted by R1966 View Post
Not sure if I'd be investing in a small business at the moment until we see what happens with the US economy (e.g. hard landing, soft landing, etc.)

I'd also probably look into a franchise, although you may need more than the listed amounts to get in. Perhaps with a partner? In something that people will spend money on even in a recession (kids or pets or alcohol). Alternately, rental property(ies), but again may need more upfront.

As to loans, small business loan from the government, although I don't know what the rates are. Personal loan, Home Equity Loan, etc. but I'm sure rates are outrageous at the moment.

As to retirement strategy, hope you've been investing in the stock market throughout your life. Time value of money / compounding interest. Although, in today's market, I'd look at T-bills or CDs paying around 5%. Very low risk and probably not much of a lower return versus equities at the moment (which have higher risk).
Use to be able to buy into a franchise at 50k. Sad how high things have went up. Many of us have missed our window. I don't know about the stock market. I've made investments in real estate, now I'm changing the type of real estate I invest in. Scary to not know how hard or soft we will fall.