Singles urged to use Valentine’s for planning

Let’s face it: Singles often get short changed in financial planning and political discussions of personal economics. Most Americans don’t stay single for life. But what if you do?

So with the annual holiday of relationship bliss coming Feb. 14, JP Morgan Fleming financial strategist Susan Hirshman says singles could use the day to evaluate their financial circumstances. They have some unique considerations:

• No second income. Without a spouse, losing your job could be even more calamitous. Set aside three to six months of your salary in a liquid account for emergencies.
• A will. Even if you don’t have or don’t want children, your assets need to be apportioned when you die. Are there nieces, nephews, siblings, charities or religious groups, you might want to name in a will?
• Get a house. There is no law mandating singles be renters. Buying a home can be an exceptional investment for everyone, especially if you know you’ll be there for at least four or five years, and have your down payment ready.
• Old age. Turning old alone doesn’t have to be gloomy. But it can still be expensive. Investigate life and long-term care insurance, which may be appropriate for some singles.

Technology

Souped-up digital pet to hit shelves in March

Japan’s popular digital pet from the 1990s is coming back. And this time Tamagotchi will be able to date, fall in love and even have babies.

Launched in 1996 but discontinued in 1998, Tamagotchi was an egg-shaped, pocket-sized gadget with a cartoon pet that appeared on a screen. Owners reared it by punching buttons that would feed the creature, play games with it or groom it. In time, the pet “grew” from an infant into a virtual adulthood, and better players could make it live longer.

The new, souped-up Tamagotchi Plus goes on sale in Japan on March 20 for $19, and will be introduced overseas this summer.

It will be able to communicate with other digital pets through infrared signals, and owners can have them compete in eating contests or give flowers and other presents. Tamagotchi Plus is programmed to cultivate intimacy, moving from friendship to love to marriage. In some cases, a child pops up on the displays.