Wednesday’s need-to-know money news

Today’s top story: Here’s which airline rewards program gives the most value. Also in the news: The most valuable hotel rewards program in 2022, 5 steps to strengthen your finances, and despite higher wages, inflation gave the average worker a 2.4% pay cut last year.

Here’s Which Airline Rewards Program Gives the Most Value
Alaska, Frontier and Southwest lead the way on cash value per mile.

The Most Valuable Hotel Rewards Programs in 2022
Radisson Rewards America and World of Hyatt lead the way on key measures of value.

5 Steps to Strengthen Your Finances in 2022
In 2022, setting grand financial goals may not be realistic for every budget, but there are still smart steps you can take to shore up your finances.

Despite higher wages, inflation gave the average worker a 2.4% pay cut last year
Inflation grew 7% in December from a year earlier, the U.S. Department of Labor said Wednesday.