Daily Money 03-04-21

Good morning, Daily Money subscribers, it's Nathan Bomey visiting your inbox once again. I have vivid memories of window-shopping at the Disney store at the mall when I was a kid. Those days might be over.

On to our ...

INSIGHT OF THE DAY: If the government were to distribute monthly checks as a form of universal basic income, would people spend the money wisely or waste it? In one early test, the city of Stockton, California, gave out $500 checks monthly. The results? It helped more participants find jobs, reduced income volatility, eased stress and helped recipients pay unexpected expenses and meet basic needs. Less than 1% of the money was spent on alcohol or tobacco, our Paul Davidson reports.

On to the rest of the news ...

1. More than three years after it began, the #MeToo movement still resonates. The latest indication is that several women felt comfortable enough to make allegations against New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo, workplace reporter Charisse Jones writes.

2. Ever wondered how much you would've made if you had invested in the stock market the year you were born? We've got you covered.

3. The governor of Texas has ended the state's public mask mandate. But major retailers will still require them.

4. When should you begin collecting Social Security benefits? Here are three signs it might be too soon.

5. More than 2.2 million women have left the workforce since the pandemic started. Economists worry it could have a long-term negative effect on the gender wage gap.

6. Remember those big piles of stuffed animals at the Disney store at the mall? Disney is closing at least 60 of its stores.

Never forget: a dream is a wish your heart makes.

--Nathan Bomey, Money reporter and Disney animation fan