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J.R. Duren

Consumer and Personal Finance Editor

J.R. Duren is a US editor for The Independent based in Jacksonville, Florida, covering consumer and personal finance news. Before joining The Independent in November 2025, J.R. wrote about personal finance at CBS News, served as a lead insurance editor at CNN Underscored Money, and was a personal finance editor at Investopedia and The Balance.

<p>Home loan rates continue their downward trend thanks to seasonality and other factors.</p>

Mortgage rates drop to lowest point in more than a year

<p>A new survey has found that 41 percent of people still have debt from last holiday season. Consumers spent roughly $1,223 this year. </p>

Over 40% of consumers are still in debt from last year’s holidays

<p>Raccoons have been wreaking havoc on businesses; but commercial general liability insurance policies may cover the damage</p>

Raccoons steal booze and bite diners – will insurance cover it?

<p>Retail experts note that consumers are willing to spend more when items are discounted</p>

Tanger Outlet CEO calls shoppers ‘resilient’ as holiday spending rose

<p>‘Luxury buyers are still able to move forward in ways that many typical buyers can’t right now,’ one expert said. </p>

Luxury home prices rise - here’s what it means for the housing market

Luxury home prices rise - here’s what it means for the housing market

<p>‘Luxury buyers are still able to move forward in ways that many typical buyers can’t right now,’ one expert said. </p>

<p>Travelers can typically buy a comprehensive travel insurance policy up until the day before departure - and experts say it can be worth it. </p>

Why travel insurance for your Thanksgiving trip is still a good idea

<p>‘Customers really need to do their part by making use of the various tools provided to protect their accounts,’ one expert said</p>

Nearly 1 in 4 credit card users dealt with fraud in the past 12 months