Americans are increasingly placing money into low-risk products such as money-market funds and certificates of deposit (CDs), according to multiple reports. The shift reflects continued demand for safety even as returns are described as only “so-so” relative to inflation concerns.

The outlets note that the decision is shaped by the current economic backdrop, including inflation that reduces purchasing power and interest rates that determine available yields on cash-like investments. While money-market funds and CDs are generally viewed as lower risk than equities or other volatile assets, the reports characterize their yields as not fully compensating for higher inflation. As a result, households appear to prioritize capital preservation while accepting modest real returns.

The coverage focuses on different aspects of the same trend: one outlet emphasizes the broader risk-versus-inflation trade-off, while another highlights the combination of low-risk preferences and the relative attractiveness (or lack of it) of current yields. Together, the articles portray a market where safety drives behavior, but inflation remains a key factor shaping how investors evaluate returns.