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Wednesday, May 13, 2026

If you were planning to use balloons for a celebration this summer, you might want to start thinking about other, less expensive decorations. Helium spot prices have more than doubled since the Middle East crisis started in February....

Tuesday, May 12, 2026

Stocks rose last week as peace talks picked up while investors cheered better-than-expected economic news and Q1 corporate results. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index advanced 2.33 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index rose 4.51...

Monday, May 11, 2026

As you’re nearing retirement, the focus shifts from growth to dependable income. In a volatile economy, that calls for a very different strategy. Market fluctuations, changing interest rates, and ongoing inflation can all affect how...

Wednesday, May 6, 2026

Stocks advanced last week as investors moved past stalled progress in Middle East peace talks and refocused on corporate earnings. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index rose 0.91 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index climbed 1.12...

Wednesday, May 6, 2026

Recent geopolitical tensions involving Iran, combined with surging oil and gas prices, have added a new layer of complexity to markets. We’re seeing higher volatility, inflation concerns, and shifting expectations around interest...

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Monday, May 4, 2026

If you’re in your peak earning years, your 401(k) isn’t just a line item on a statement; it’s the engine doing most of the heavy lifting for your future. The question is: how do you know if it’s on track? A good starting point is a...

Friday, May 1, 2026

Fuel costs are increasingly putting pressure on household budgets. While markets respond to geopolitical tensions and supply uncertainties, the true impact is seen on weekly expenses. The good news: with the right approach, rising gas...

Wednesday, April 29, 2026

Over the next few weeks, investors will hear about the Q1 business climate from roughly 90 percent of Standard & Poor’s 500 companies.It’s called “Earnings Season,” and it happens four times a year. Investors will hear about the...

Tuesday, April 28, 2026

Stocks were mixed last week as investors gauged potential outcomes of the Middle East conflict amid an ongoing ceasefire.The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index rose 0.55 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index advanced 1.50 percent. By...

Monday, April 27, 2026

When you’re in your prime earning and saving years, it’s easy to think that big moves like raise increases, market gains, and major investments are what propel progress. They are important. However, often it’s the small, consistent...

Thursday, April 23, 2026

As you shift from merely managing money to creating real assets, the game changes. It’s no longer just about staying within your budget; it’s about guiding your dollars with purpose.One of the most effective ways to do that? A regular...

Tuesday, April 21, 2026

Stocks rallied last week as investor enthusiasm built for an end to the war in the Middle East and hopes of a resumption of normal global trade. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index rose 4.54 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index picked...

Monday, April 20, 2026

For many retirees, financial stress doesn’t come from a lack of assets; it comes from a lack of ongoing clarity. When decisions are driven by uncertainty rather than a defined strategy, even strong balance sheets can feel fragile.The...

Thursday, April 16, 2026

Market timing requires a skill that’s almost impossible to master.An investor not only has to determine when stock prices have peaked (so you can sell), but also when they have bottomed (so you can buy).In recent weeks, many people...

Tuesday, April 14, 2026

Hope won out over fear last week as investors set their sights on a Middle East ceasefire holding and optimistic prospects for the Strait of Hormuz reopening.The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index rose 3.56 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite...

Monday, April 13, 2026

Did you know that the origins of spring cleaning date from when fireplaces heated homes? Through the fall and winter, soot would build up throughout the house, and when the weather warmed, a little clean up was required. “Spring...

Thursday, April 9, 2026

Something remarkable is happening right now—and it’s too good to miss.NASA's Artemis II mission has sent four astronauts on a 10-day journey around the far side of the Moon—the first lunar mission with a crew in over 50 years.This is a...

Thursday, April 9, 2026

After the heaviness of winter, it’s natural to crave more energy, clarity, and a bit of relief from the pace we’ve been keeping. Spring is a great time to gently declutter, not just your space, but your schedule. It’s a chance to warm...

Tuesday, April 7, 2026

Stocks rose over the short trading week on fresh hopes for a quick end to the Middle East conflict, while March job growth was unexpectedly strong.The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index picked up 3.36 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index...

Monday, April 6, 2026

Financial confidence doesn’t always come from knowing more; often, it comes from having clarity about where you stand and what decisions lie ahead. If you’ve ever felt uncertain about your financial direction, you’re not alone.One of...

Friday, April 3, 2026

The Easter holiday is upon us. Springtime is blooming, and the world is waking up from the colder months. It’s a time of celebration and renewal.In the spirit of this renewal, I just wanted to wish you and yours a Happy Easter.

Thursday, April 2, 2026

As April rolls around, so does Financial Literacy Month, an opportune time to reinvigorate your approach to managing your finances. While financial literacy might seem like a dry subject, it's essential for building a secure future and...

Wednesday, April 1, 2026

Warren Buffett has passed along words of wisdom that later sound like common sense you somehow forgot."I would tell [investors], ‘Don't watch the market closely.’" He offered that insight in March 2016, when stock prices were under...

Tuesday, March 31, 2026

Stocks ended a challenging week lower as investors' attention shifted from updates on ceasefire talks to concerns about the economic impact of a protracted conflict.The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index lost 2.12 percent, while the Nasdaq...

Monday, March 30, 2026

For years, cultural narratives have implied that women are “less confident” investors or more cautious with money. But when you step back and look at behavior, not stereotypes, a different story emerges. Many women are naturally wired...

Thursday, March 26, 2026

There’s something about spring that makes us want to reset everything. We clean out closets, wipe down baseboards we ignored all winter, and suddenly feel motivated to “get our life together.”That energy is awesome! The problem? Most...

Tuesday, March 24, 2026

Another volatile week unfolded as rapid developments in the Middle East and public comments from leaders on the conflict see-sawed markets, leaving investors struggling to keep up with updates.The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index lost 1.89...

Monday, March 23, 2026

A strong credit score can open doors. It can help you qualify for loans, secure lower interest rates, and increase financial flexibility. But while your credit score tells lenders how you’ve handled debt in the past, it doesn’t tell...

Friday, March 20, 2026

While markets have been known to “climb a wall of worry,” they can struggle during periods of uncertainty.Events in the Middle East are creating a great deal of uncertainty.Look no further than the outlook for short-term interest rates...

Thursday, March 19, 2026

As tax season gets into full swing, we want to share some helpful updates, so you know what to expect this year. It’s a mix of good news, useful changes, and reminders to help make filing easier.Refunds Are Trending Higher This YearOne...

Tuesday, March 17, 2026

Stocks logged a third-straight down week as investors digested the latest news out of the Middle East, navigated more volatility, and mulled the latest economic data. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index declined 1.60 percent, while the...

Monday, March 16, 2026

For many people, a financial plan exists, but it’s asleep. The accounts are open, contributions may be happening automatically, and insurance policies are in place; yet there’s little active engagement. The plan is dormant, running in...

Thursday, March 12, 2026

Spring tends to inspire action. There’s a sense of satisfaction in letting go of what no longer serves you.But for pre-retirees, there’s one financial area that often gets overlooked during this annual reset: your income plan for...

Tuesday, March 10, 2026

Stocks fell last week as investors assessed the implications of a fresh Middle East conflict while digesting mixed reports on the jobs market.The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index fell 2.02 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index slid 1.24...

Monday, March 9, 2026

Have you ever wished for that coveted 850?A high credit score feels like an achievement; a lower one can feel like failure. But credit was never designed to measure your worth, personal or financial. It’s simply a tool. When you stop...

Friday, March 6, 2026

As the troubling and fluid events unfold in the Middle East, more investors are asking, “Should we do anything?”If the recent military actions against Iran last June and Venezuela in January provide a template for crisis trading, the...

Thursday, March 5, 2026

Get ready to start seeing the name “Fed Chair Kevin Warsh” when you receive updates about the Federal Reserve on your news feeds.In short order, the Senate Banking Committee is expected to move ahead with the confirmation process for...

Tuesday, March 3, 2026

Stocks fell last week amid concerns about artificial intelligence (AI) and a warmer-than-expected reading of wholesale inflation. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index fell 0.44 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index declined 0.95 percent...

Thursday, February 26, 2026

A personal balance sheet is one of the simplest yet most effective tools for understanding your financial situation. Think of it as a snapshot of everything you own, owe, and ultimately control at a specific moment. Unlike a budget,...

Tuesday, February 24, 2026

Stocks ended a choppy four-session run in the green, with tech-led momentum earlier in the week prevailing over news of a slowing economy, sticky inflation, and geopolitical tensions.The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index advanced 1.07...

Monday, February 23, 2026

We understand the urge, especially during uncertain economic times. If you could just “pay off that mortgage,” you would feel much better about your financial situation. But then there’s the idea that time in the market and the ability...

Thursday, February 19, 2026

The last five years before retirement focus less on aggressive growth and more on strategic planning. For pre-retirees, this time is a key transition from building assets to using them. The choices you make now can significantly...

Tuesday, February 17, 2026

Stocks fell last week as investors reacted to mixed economic data and concerns over signs of broadening AI disruption of business models.The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index fell 1.39 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index declined 2.10...

Monday, February 16, 2026

For most of your working life, spending followed a predictable rhythm: a paycheck arrived, bills were paid, savings happened automatically, and what remained was discretionary. Retirement disrupts that structure. Even when the numbers...

Friday, February 13, 2026

Valentine’s Day is here, and let’s be real, the trickiest relationship in your life might not be romantic. It could be with your own money. Even at its most stable, financial matters, market, and economy can be emotional, unpredictable...

Thursday, February 12, 2026

For many women, the pursuit of financial security has been shaped by responsibility, navigating career interruptions, planning for longer lives, and, for some, caring for family and managing households. By the time retirement arrives,...

Tuesday, February 10, 2026

Stocks were mixed last week, with broad gains on Monday and Friday bookending midweek selling pressure as investors digested earnings results from more than 100 S&P 500 companies.The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index ended the week roughly...

Monday, February 9, 2026

Recent tax law updates may have quietly shifted the landscape for your financial plan, and if your plan hasn’t been reviewed recently, you might be leaving money on the table or exposing yourself to unexpected tax burdens.For...

Friday, February 6, 2026

We invite you to join us in a Frugal February Challenge as we enter February! It's an opportunity to reassess our spending habits, prioritize financial goals, and make conscious choices to benefit long-term financial well-being. Here...

Thursday, February 5, 2026

February includes several health-focused observances, making it a timely reminder that financial readiness is an essential part of overall well-being. While health disruptions are rarely planned, preparing financially in advance can...

Tuesday, February 3, 2026

Stocks were mixed last week as investors navigated Q4 corporate results, a widely expected Fed decision, and a handful of economic reports.The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index rose 0.34 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index edged down 0...

Thursday, January 29, 2026

Even with strong retirement plans, employer matches, and access to education, many employees still aren’t taking full advantage of one of the most valuable workplace benefits available: the 401(k).A recent survey of eligible employees...

Monday, January 26, 2026

Markets ended a short but eventful week slightly lower amid geopolitical tensions and fresh tariff threats. However, constructive economic news appeared to buoy spirits as the week progressed.The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index fell 0.35...

Friday, January 23, 2026

Warren Buffett’s quotes have provided clarity during confusion over the years.But his final act speaks louder than any expression. He did nothing.As CEO, Buffett had nearly $400 billion in cash to spend in 2025. But he found no...

Wednesday, January 21, 2026

Feeling behind financially is more common than most women admit, and it’s rarely a reflection of capability or effort. Many aspects of life that women navigate can impact or slow their financial progress. But letting that feeling of...

Tuesday, January 20, 2026

Stocks ended last week with modest losses after a volatile five days of market-moving economic data, geopolitics, and Fed drama.The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index slid 0.38 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index skidded 0.66 percent....

Monday, January 19, 2026

Have you ever heard the Wall Street adage, "Stocks climb a wall of worry"?It means that stock prices have historically trended higher when investors worry about economic issues, geopolitical uncertainty, or, in this case, a possible...

Thursday, January 15, 2026

What’s one small thing you could do today that would make an impact on your financial future?Many people delay investing because they’re waiting for the “right” time. The right market. The right strategy. The right amount of money....

Tuesday, January 13, 2026

Stocks posted solid gains in an action-packed week of market-moving economic data, geopolitical news, and bullish new year sentiment.The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index gained 1.57 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index added 1.88...

Monday, January 12, 2026

January has a reputation. It’s like the Monday of months: long, quiet, a little gloomy, and somehow still exhausting. The holidays are over, the fun calendar feels empty, the weather isn’t helping, and suddenly everyone expects you to...

Friday, January 9, 2026

As we step into 2026, many of us think about making resolutions: saving more, paying down debt, and investing wisely. But setting strict goals or exact numbers can feel overwhelming, especially if life throws unexpected curveballs...

Thursday, January 8, 2026

Feeling confident about money doesn’t mean having everything figured out. It means knowing where you stand, understanding your options, and feeling in control of your decisions, even when life changes, which it inevitably always seems...

Thursday, January 8, 2026

When you see the word “forecast,” it should be closely followed by, “Forecasts are based on assumptions and are subject to revisions over time. Financial, economic, political, and regulatory issues may cause the actual results to...

Tuesday, January 6, 2026

Stocks trended lower last week amid signs of year-end profit-taking and some sour investor sentiment over the Fed meeting minutes.The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index fell 1.03 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index lost 1.52 percent....

Friday, January 2, 2026

A new year brings a fresh opportunity to level up your financial life, and 2026 can be a year of real momentum if you approach it with clarity and intention. You’re in your prime building years and the habits you develop now can have...

Wednesday, December 31, 2025

After a complicated year, the next dawns with new opportunities. Now is the time to think about the new year and plan for action. The start of a year is the right time to work on a dream or two. It is also an excellent time to adjust...

Tuesday, December 30, 2025

Stocks delivered for investors last week as positive economic data and bullish holiday cheer powered the start of a “Santa Claus rally” past consumer bah humbug sentiment.The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index rose 1.40 percent, while the...

Monday, December 29, 2025

Holidays are a natural pause, a time to slow down, gather with loved ones, and reflect on the year that has passed. Amid the busyness of celebrations, it’s easy to overlook how much you’ve accomplished, the challenges you’ve overcome,...

Thursday, December 25, 2025

That special time of year is here – a time of love and happiness and wonder, an occasion when we all draw closer together. This Christmas, we are thinking of you and wishing you and your loved ones all the best the season has to offer...

Tuesday, December 23, 2025

Stocks posted a slight gain last week as mixed jobs data triggered some selling pressure before a cooling inflation report helped stocks recover.The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index inched ahead 0.10 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite...

Thursday, December 18, 2025

There are not many times of year as celebrated and cherished as the end-of-year holidays. It has a feel, a rhythm, a vibe, something that no other time of year has. Walking down the street, driving through your local shopping district,...

Tuesday, December 16, 2025

Stocks ended last week mixed. A widely anticipated Federal Reserve decision on interest rates and a rotation into non-tech areas helped push the Dow Industrials higher, while the broader market and technology stocks lagged behind. The...

Monday, December 15, 2025

For many women, the true definition of wealth extends far beyond the numbers on their budget or financial statements. It’s the confidence that comes from knowing you’re prepared, the freedom to make decisions aligned with your values,...

Thursday, December 11, 2025

It seems like just yesterday the Fed was all about inflation. So why are Jerome Powell & Crew now talking about jobs? A look inside ADP’s November report shows why they are looking past inflation (for the moment) and focusing on the...

Wednesday, December 10, 2025

When you’re just beginning your financial journey, “financial planning” can seem like something only for those who already have everything figured out or a large sum of money to invest. In reality, starting early and staying...

Tuesday, December 9, 2025

Stock prices pushed higher last week, notching multiple records along the way as employment and inflation data took center stage in anticipation of the Fed’s upcoming meeting. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index rose 0.31 percent, while...

Monday, December 8, 2025

It’s that time of year when the busy shopping season picks up, and budgets can take a serious hit. Holidays are about giving, but they don’t always have to mean running to a store or spending a lot of money. Sometimes it can be a fun...

Friday, December 5, 2025

'Tis the season… of credit card swiping. The holiday season is full of joy, but it can also come with a hidden leftover we don’t necessarily want: credit card debt. Between gifts, entertaining, travel, and holiday treats, it’s easy to...

Thursday, December 4, 2025

Holiday gatherings are more than celebrations; they're opportunities to strengthen your legacy in ways that go far beyond finances. You've lived experiences, learned meaningful lessons, and built a life full of stories worth passing...

Monday, December 1, 2025

Stocks pushed higher over the holiday week as investors' hopes for a Fed rate adjustment drove bullish sentiment. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index rose 3.73 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index rallied 4.91 percent. The Dow Jones...

Thursday, November 27, 2025

May you and yours enjoy a safe, warm, happy, and delicious Thanksgiving Day!

Monday, November 24, 2025

Heightened volatility was on Wall Street’s mind last week, as investors continued to focus on valuations of artificial intelligence (AI) stocks. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index fell 1.95 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index...

Monday, November 24, 2025

As we approach Thanksgiving, we wanted to share a lighthearted activity to add fun to your holiday gathering! Whether before the big meal, during dinner, or while enjoying dessert, this simple game is a great way to share laughs,...

Thursday, November 20, 2025

As the year winds down, it’s a great time to revisit your retirement goals and ensure your strategy is keeping pace with new opportunities. One area worth exploring is the recent changes to Roth contributions under the SECURE Act 2.0,...

Wednesday, November 19, 2025

Open enrollment season comes around every fall, and while it might not be the most exciting item on your to-do list, it’s one of the most important. The decisions you make now determine how well your health coverage fits your needs...

Tuesday, November 18, 2025

Stocks ended mixed after a nail-biting week for investors, who grew anxious over megacap tech valuations and interest rates as the government shutdown came to an end. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index edged up 0.08 percent, while the...

Monday, November 17, 2025

In investing, the term “wide moat” might sound like something out of a medieval story, and in a way, it is. The phrase comes from none other than Warren Buffett, who popularized it to describe companies with strong, lasting...

Friday, November 14, 2025

As we approach the end of the year, I wanted to share a quick reminder of some important deadlines that can significantly impact your finances and help you make the most of 2025. Here are a few key items to keep on your radar:...

Thursday, November 13, 2025

There is always something to worry about on Wall Street. In fact, there’s even a saying about how stock prices perform when investors are fretting. “Wall Street climbs a wall of worry”—a quote that is often attributed to Warren...

Wednesday, November 12, 2025

When people talk about “investing,” most jump straight to stocks, portfolios, and market trends. But here’s the truth: before you can confidently invest a single dollar, you have to understand where your money is going, and that...

Tuesday, November 11, 2025

Stocks hit a rough patch last week as fresh labor market data, low consumer sentiment, and the ongoing government shutdown unnerved investors. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index declined 1.63 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index...

Monday, November 10, 2025

As the holiday shopping season approaches, it’s worth paying attention to how tariffs may influence the deals you find and how you shop. Let’s walk through how tariffs can affect your holiday purchases and share a few smart-shopping...

Thursday, November 6, 2025

The business of making forecasts can be a slippery slope. But some investors are willing to “put their money where their mouth is” when it comes to making predictions about what’s next for short-term interest rates, so it can be...

Wednesday, November 5, 2025

Stocks rose last week as trade developments, positive Q3 corporate results, and momentum in megacap tech drove another rally, despite some cautious comments from the Fed. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index gained 0.71 percent, while the...

Thursday, October 30, 2025

When the government shuts down, so do several agencies that put out the economic reports the Fed looks at when setting interest rates. In fact, the delayed September Consumer Price Index report, which was released on October 24, was...

Monday, October 27, 2025

Stocks rose last week thanks to a full slate of upbeat third-quarter corporate results and mild inflation data, which helped soften concerns over trade tensions with China. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index gained 1.92 percent, while...

Monday, October 27, 2025

October is coming to an end, and that means Halloween will be here before you know it. Are you ready for the holiday? If you have kids, no doubt they are! All Hallows Eve is celebrated in many ways today; they are all enjoyable. So,...

Friday, October 24, 2025

As wealth planners, we dedicate much of our time to helping clients prepare for future retirement and investments and protect what they’ve worked so hard to build. But our concern isn’t just about your financial house; we care about...

Thursday, October 23, 2025

“What’s the purpose of a retirement strategy?” It’s a simple question, but most get the answer wrong. Artificial intelligence got it wrong. AI Gemini says, “The purpose of creating a retirement strategy is to act as a comprehensive,...

Tuesday, October 21, 2025

Stocks pushed higher last week, buoyed by strong third-quarter results posted by several money center banks. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index gained 1.70 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index rose 2.14 percent. The Dow Jones...

Monday, October 20, 2025

Caring for an aging loved one involves more than just logistics. As we’ve worked with clients, we’ve seen how emotional stress, family dynamics, and difficult decisions can affect everything, from daily life to financial security. The...

Friday, October 17, 2025

When the One Big Beautiful Bill (OBBB) Act was passed on July 4, the legislation left several unanswered questions that the IRS is now addressing. The IRS undergoes this process every year, but this time around, the OBBB has added to...

Wednesday, October 15, 2025

Stop me if you’ve heard this one before—past performance is no guarantee of future results. It’s one of the truisms of personal finance. What happened before is interesting to check out, but it doesn’t mean it will happen again....

Wednesday, October 15, 2025

If you’re on Medicare or soon to be, the open enrollment period each fall is one of the most important financial and Health decisions you make all year. For 2025, there are some key changes and updates that could make a difference in...

Tuesday, October 14, 2025

Stocks fell last week amid concerns about trade with China, following an unsteady rally to record highs over the first half of the week. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index fell 2.43 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index declined 2.53...

Monday, October 13, 2025

If you’re like us, you probably use your phone for almost all purchases now, whether in person or online. It’s incredibly convenient, and digital wallets like Apple Pay, Google Wallet, PayPal, and Venmo have made paying faster and...

Thursday, October 9, 2025

When you’re in the stage of accumulating wealth, time is your greatest asset. The dollars you save and invest today have years—even decades—to grow through the power of compounding. The good news? You don’t need to overhaul your...

Wednesday, October 8, 2025

As the government shutdown lingers, I’m answering more questions about, “How long is this going to last?” I can only point to history as a guide. Since 1976, we’ve experienced 20 shutdowns, averaging eight days in length. The longest...

Tuesday, October 7, 2025

Stocks rose last week, looking past the government shutdown and apparently discounting any impact it may have on the economy. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index moved up 1.08 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index rose 1.32 percent....

Monday, October 6, 2025

Everyone has likely heard of sites like Temu, Shein, and Wish that offer products at shockingly low prices, tempting shoppers with deals that feel too good to pass up. In recent years, many more “bargain” websites have popped up...

Thursday, October 2, 2025

October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month. Cybercrime affects both large corporations and private individuals. You’ve likely read about the significant data breaches in the business world. The cost of these crimes could increase by 175...

Tuesday, September 30, 2025

Have you heard of the concept known as “Revenge Savings”? Gen Z’ers (born 1997 to 2012) have popularized the “vibe-based budgeting” this year. It’s the idea of stockpiling money to prepare for economic uncertainty, including a cooling...

Monday, September 29, 2025

Stocks fell last week, buffeted by concerns about stock price valuations and a possible government shutdown. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index declined 0.31 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index lost 0.65 percent. The Dow Jones...

Thursday, September 25, 2025

The Fed lowered short-term interest rates at its September 2025 meeting, but the question on most people’s minds is, “What’s in it for me?” That’s a fair question, so here are some ideas to consider. First-wave changes: Any loan...

Tuesday, September 23, 2025

Stocks posted solid gains last week, propelled by the Fed’s decision to cut short-term interest rates. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index rose 1.22 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index climbed 2.21 percent. The Dow Jones Industrial...

Friday, September 19, 2025

The Autumnal Equinox approaching on September 22 is a day with 12 hours of sunlight and 12 hours of darkness. This balance of day and night serves as a reminder of the change of seasons, and heralds the coming of fall colors and...

Thursday, September 18, 2025

“Adjusted for inflation” is a phrase you may think isn’t important. But when you see it in action, you might change your mind. Let’s examine how “adjusted for inflation” has affected a couple of tax rules and their impact on Social...

Tuesday, September 16, 2025

Stocks posted a solid gain last week, riding a rally in megacap tech stocks while overcoming interest rate anxiety, a downward revision to jobs data, and mixed inflation reports. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index rose 1.59 percent,...

Monday, September 15, 2025

If you’re like us, you're putting on cozy sweaters when it’s not quite sweater weather yet in anticipation of the brisk days that are coming and hoping they get here a little faster. There’s something about fall that stirs up a...

Thursday, September 11, 2025

Much time has passed since the events of September 11, 2001, and while in some ways it feels like a lifetime ago, the memory remains painfully fresh in my mind. An attack on U.S. soil. The loss of thousands of lives. In the wake of...

Tuesday, September 9, 2025

Stocks made gains last week, even as megacap tech gains outweighed economic concerns. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index advanced 0.33 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index rose 1.14 percent. The Dow Jones Industrial Average...

Monday, September 8, 2025

When you think about how many years you’ll spend in retirement, what’s the number that immediately pops into your head? Is it lower than 30 years? Thanks to advances in medicine, nutrition, and healthy living, statistics show retirees...

Friday, September 5, 2025

I wanted to share some important updates from the recently passed One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) that may be especially relevant to retirees. These changes affect income taxes, deductions, credits, and estate planning, and many...

Wednesday, September 3, 2025

40% of American adults believe they need more life insurance, representing close to 100 million adults. September is Life Insurance Awareness Month, a reminder to pause and ask: If something happened to me tomorrow, would my family be...

Tuesday, September 2, 2025

Stocks ended the week slightly lower as mixed economic data led to some profit-taking by investors ahead of the holiday weekend. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index edged down 0.10 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index slipped 0.19...

Friday, August 29, 2025

There’s something for everyone in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act of 2025. In fact, the Tax Foundation calculated that the new law avoided a tax hike on 62 percent of tax filers in 2026. In dollars and cents, that works out to almost...

Thursday, August 28, 2025

A holiday with a nice long weekend attached is coming up – Labor Day. This weekend represents the unofficial end of summer as well as a chance to relax, get away, get your mind off work, and enjoy the comforts of home or a great...

Wednesday, August 27, 2025

Stocks were mixed last week despite a powerful Friday rally sparked by Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, who opened the door to adjusting short-term interest rates. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index picked up 0.27 percent while the...

Monday, August 25, 2025

As you focus on growing your wealth, tax-efficient investing is a crucial part of your financial strategy. One often overlooked opportunity to optimize your portfolio is tax-loss harvesting—a strategy that can help you reduce your tax...

Friday, August 22, 2025

We’ve all been there: standing at the checkout counter, tempted by a shiny discount if you sign up for the store’s credit card. But before you get swept away by the promise of immediate savings, it’s worth considering why having...

Thursday, August 21, 2025

Hardly a day goes by that someone doesn’t say to me, “I’m putting off a decision until the Fed changes interest rates.” But I’m quick to remind people that the “rate dominoes” don’t always fall as you may expect. Here’s what could...

Tuesday, August 19, 2025

Stocks rose last week despite mixed signals on inflation as investors kept one eye on the Fed’s September meeting. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index advanced 0.94 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index added 0.81 percent. The Dow...

Friday, August 15, 2025

The Federal Reserve has what’s called a “dual mandate”—keep everyday prices stable while promoting an economy that creates jobs. Managing that dual mandate is becoming more challenging this year, with prices and jobs giving mixed...

Wednesday, August 13, 2025

Grab your clubs, dust off your plaid pants, and prepare for a wild ride on the greens! From the ancient origins of whacking rocks with sticks to the modern-day quest for the perfect swing, golf has evolved into a unique combination of...

Tuesday, August 12, 2025

Stocks rebounded last week as investor optimism for a September rate adjustment and strong Q2 corporate results overcame the rollout of fresh tariffs. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index rose 2.43 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index...

Monday, August 11, 2025

If a new car is on your wish list for 2025, there’s a fresh tax break coming your way that could make that decision more financially beneficial. Beginning January 1, 2025, and available through 2028, individuals can deduct up to $10...

Friday, August 8, 2025

August is National Wellness Month—a time when our feeds overflow with reminders to hydrate, stretch, and meditate. But wellness isn’t always found in a yoga class or a perfectly curated smoothie bowl. Sometimes, it’s in a messy...

Thursday, August 7, 2025

The last two weeks of July were about as action-packed as it gets for investors. Here’s a quick recap of the highlights: The U.S. economy. Gross domestic product grew at a 3 percent rate in Q2, better than the 2.3 percent forecast....

Tuesday, August 5, 2025

Stocks fell last week as investors assessed progress on trade negotiations, new U.S. tariffs, and fresh data on the U.S. economy. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index fell 2.36 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index declined 2.17...

Wednesday, July 30, 2025

What did one rock say to the other during a landslide? Hang in there buddy, we'll rock and roll through this together! 😆👬 On this National Friendship Day, let us cherish and appreciate the friends who have become our solid rocks,...

Tuesday, July 29, 2025

If I told you young people are the fastest adopters of AI, would you be surprised? Unlikely. But, if I told you the biggest percentage increase of AI users in the past year was people 65+, you might give me a double-take! Today’s...

Monday, July 28, 2025

Expectation-beating Q2 results from several companies, trade updates, and investor optimism for more trade agreements pushed market averages to solid gains. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index advanced 1.46 percent, while the Nasdaq...

Friday, July 25, 2025

You work for decades and save diligently, all for the day you retire and begin to live off that hard-earned income. But here's a truth that doesn’t get talked about enough: what you do in retirement with your money can be just as...

Thursday, July 24, 2025

There are a lot of tax-law changes tucked in the nooks and crannies of the 800+ page One Big Beautiful Bill. One that you may have heard about created a $10,000 tax deduction when you finance a new car. But as you can see, in June,...

Wednesday, July 23, 2025

Sometimes unconventional indicators can shed some light on what’s happening with the economy. As you can see, traffic from 20-foot ocean containers is at its highest level since January 2022. That’s a solid rebound from earlier in the...

Tuesday, July 22, 2025

Stocks were mixed last week, battling through tariff talk while responding to upbeat quarterly corporate reports and a trove of updates on the economy. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index rose 0.59 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite...

Monday, July 21, 2025

For many, one of the greatest joys of retirement is the freedom to travel—whether that means visiting family across the country or embarking on an international adventure. But before you pack your bags, one of the items to check off...

Friday, July 18, 2025

This summer has been a whopper when it comes to heat waves, which means soaring energy bills to keep cool and survive the heat. Even with that being the case, some small, consistent habits can help save energy costs. Here are a few...

Thursday, July 17, 2025

You've probably heard that it's smart to have a mix of different types of investments through the concept of diversification, and bonds play an essential role in that mix, especially when the market becomes unpredictable like it is...

Wednesday, July 16, 2025

🎉🍦🎊 Happy National Ice Cream Day! 🎊🍦 It's time to celebrate everyone's favorite frozen treat! 🍦🌈 Whether you're a fan of classic flavors or crave adventurous combinations, today is the day to treat yourself! Grab a scoop (or...

Monday, July 14, 2025

Just before the July 4th holiday, Congress passed a domestic policy bill that extended the 2017 tax cuts that were set to expire this year while making some of the 2017 rules permanent. The bill also created several new tax laws for...

Friday, July 11, 2025

My new favorite daytime financial drama is called, “As the Fed Turns,” starring Jerome Powell with his Fed members as the supporting cast. In a recent episode, Fed Chair Powell made it clear he’s taking a wait-and-see approach to...

Thursday, July 10, 2025

Summer is here, and for many of us, that means long days spent outdoors—whether lounging poolside, enjoying a backyard barbecue, or soaking up the sunshine at the park. While summer is the perfect time to unwind, it’s also a great...

Tuesday, July 8, 2025

Trade developments and continued momentum pushed all three major averages to modest gains again for a shortened holiday trading week. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index rose 1.72 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index added 1.62...

Monday, July 7, 2025

One of the most common tactics used by scammers and dishonest businesses is fake product reviews. These reviews are often written by bots, paid individuals, or even generated by AI, and are designed to mislead consumers into buying...

Friday, July 4, 2025

Happy 4th of July! Whether you’re celebrating with a cookout, a family gathering, or watching the fireworks with friends, Independence Day reminds us how lucky we all are to belong to this great nation. Enjoy the long weekend and join...

Thursday, July 3, 2025

Every Fourth of July, we celebrate our nation’s independence, but many Americans do not feel that same freedom regarding money and finances. This Independence Day is a great time to review your finances and identify how to get the...

Wednesday, July 2, 2025

With America’s birthday just around the corner, you might be among the more than 70% of Americans planning to attend a cookout, BBQ, or party to celebrate our nation’s independence. It’s a proper kickoff to summer, after all! Whatever...

Tuesday, July 1, 2025

Did you know July is National Anti-Boredom Month? While the excitement of the Fourth of July may kick off the summer, it’s common to feel a lull afterward, especially as the long, hot days start to blend. If you don’t have a vacation...

Tuesday, July 1, 2025

Stocks staged a broad-based rally last week on investors’ hopes for a lasting Middle East ceasefire, hitting fresh record highs along the way. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index rose 3.44 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index added 4...

Friday, June 27, 2025

Who the heck is TINA? TINA is an acronym that stands for “There Is No Alternative” to stocks. And for most retirement-minded investors, TINA is their money manager. As you can see, 71% of 401(k) account balances were allocated to...

Thursday, June 26, 2025

Living in retirement doesn’t have to mean tightening the belt or sacrificing lifestyle. In fact, choosing the right location can stretch your dollars further and enhance your quality of life. Whether you’re looking to stay in the U.S....

Tuesday, June 24, 2025

Stocks were mixed during the holiday-shortened trading week as uncertainty over conflict in the Middle East weighed on investors. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index slipped by 0.15 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index rose by 0.21...

Monday, June 23, 2025

A mortgage is often the most significant financial commitment a person makes—yet it’s just one piece of the larger financial puzzle. Whether you’re a few years into homeownership or well into your mortgage term, how you manage it can...

Thursday, June 19, 2025

Juneteenth is a celebration of freedom, marking the day when slavery came to an end in the United States. The observance of this holiday, formally recognized by the state of Texas in 1980, has continued to spread to the rest of the...

Thursday, June 19, 2025

You’re working hard, building a life, caring for others, and often doing it all at once. More women than ever are leading households, growing careers, and taking charge financially. But even with all that responsibility, many women...

Tuesday, June 17, 2025

Stocks fell last week as an up-and-down mix of trade progress and anxiety, economic news, and geopolitical tensions netted out. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index slid 0.39 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index slipped 0.63 percent....

Monday, June 16, 2025

If you're anything like us, you'll do everything you can to keep your animals safe during the warm months of the summer. While we’re all ready to soak up the sun, our furry companions need a little extra TLC during the hot months....

Thursday, June 12, 2025

As retirement approaches, many people begin to reevaluate their living situation—and their home is often one of the most significant financial and lifestyle decisions to consider. The question of whether to downsize or stay put isn't...

Wednesday, June 11, 2025

Isaac Newton might be smiling if he looked at the charts for eggs, cocoa, and coffee prices. To traders, they are a lesson on how markets can reach an extreme and then correct. But to Newton, they are simply a lesson in gravity....

Tuesday, June 10, 2025

Stocks rallied last week as investors responded to upbeat economic data and easing trade tensions. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index added 1.50 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index rose 2.18 percent. The Dow Jones Industrial...

Monday, June 9, 2025

Buying your first home is a major milestone, and an exciting one at that! But it’s also one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll ever make. From saving for a down payment to understanding closing costs, there’s more to...

Thursday, June 5, 2025

Most of us don’t like to think about emergencies, but having the right paperwork in place ahead of time can make things much easier for you and your loved ones if the unexpected happens. No matter your age or how much money you have,...

Wednesday, June 4, 2025

No more passing them by when you see one on the sidewalk. Forget about wasting a couple by putting them in your loafers. And don’t even consider throwing them into a wishing well. The Treasury Department has announced that it is...

Tuesday, June 3, 2025

Stocks advanced over the short trading week, bolstered by a possible trade deal with the European Union (EU) and an upbeat corporate report from a mega-cap tech company that creates semiconductors used in the creation of artificial...

Monday, June 2, 2025

You may have heard a lot about rare earth minerals and commodities, also known as natural resources or hard commodities, which are the building blocks of the global economy. These raw materials, extracted from the earth, can be a key...

Thursday, May 29, 2025

Behavioral science tells us current events have a greater impact on our perception and decisions than the past or what historical data shows us. In today’s environment, uncertainty reigns, leaving many investors often questioning...

Tuesday, May 27, 2025

Stocks moved lower last week as fiscal fears and fresh tariff threats loomed over market sentiment. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index fell 2.61 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index dropped 2.47 percent. The Dow Jones Industrial...

Monday, May 26, 2025

Memorial Day is so much more than a long weekend. It is a chance for us to remember those who gave all for this great nation and the freedoms it offers. This Memorial Day, we pay tribute to the lives and legacies of those who made the...

Tuesday, May 20, 2025

Stocks roared higher last week, powered by upbeat trade news and tame inflation reports. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index rose 5.27 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index spiked 7.15 percent. The Dow Jones Industrial Average added 3...

Thursday, May 15, 2025

The Fed’s May meeting was pretty much a humdrum event. Even Fed Chair Powell's post-meeting press conference was uneventful. “We are always going to do the same thing,” he said. “We are going to use our tools to foster maximum...

Wednesday, May 14, 2025

“Be fearful when others are greedy and greedy when others are fearful,” are the words of wisdom from Warren Buffett. There’s just one small catch—it may be the most difficult thing for an investor to do. Over six decades, Warren has...

Tuesday, May 13, 2025

Stocks were lower last week as volatility dropped despite ongoing trade concerns and the Federal Reserve's update on short-term rates The Dow Jones Industrial Average dropped 0.16 percent, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 Index lost 0...

Monday, May 12, 2025

In today's unpredictable economic environment, shaped by fluctuating markets, shifting tariffs, and general volatility, it's more important than ever to build a strong financial cushion. Summer may be synonymous with vacations and...

Sunday, May 11, 2025

Today is a very special day – Mother's Day! It is a day of gratitude, adoration, and relaxation for Mom, a time to treat her like the queen she is.Mother's Day gives you a chance to touch the hearts of all the mothers in your life....

Friday, May 9, 2025

Retirement is often portrayed as the reward at the end of a long career—more time, more freedom, fewer obligations. But for many retirees, this newfound freedom can come with unexpected challenges, especially when there's no clear...

Wednesday, May 7, 2025

You've got auto insurance, so you're covered correctly, right? Unfortunately, not always. Auto insurance can be more complicated than it seems, and there are a few things most people don't realize until it's too late. We wanted to...

Monday, May 5, 2025

Stocks pushed higher last week as investors cheered the White House’s constructive comments on trade, upbeat Q1 corporate reports, and an encouraging jobs report. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index gained 2.92 percent, while the Nasdaq...

Monday, May 5, 2025

In the spirit of Cinco de Mayo, let's spice things up and taco 'bout something that's just as deliciously important in your financial journey as guac is to a taco: diversification. Now, imagine building the perfect taco. Would you...

Thursday, May 1, 2025

May is the perfect time to reset, especially as we observe National Stroke Awareness Month and Mental Health Month. With so much going on, it’s a reminder to recharge—not just physically but mentally, too. Here are 10 simple ways to...

Wednesday, April 30, 2025

Have you heard the expression, “Watch what people do, not what they say?” That’s important these days when it comes to the economic outlook. Some people are “saying” the word recession like it’s a foregone conclusion. But let’s take a...

Tuesday, April 29, 2025

Stocks pushed higher last week, spurred by the White House's reassuring comments that progress was being made with trade talks. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index gained 4.59 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index picked up 6.73...

Monday, April 28, 2025

Financial fitness, like physical fitness, is a crucial aspect of your overall well-being. It's not just about numbers but about confidence, security, and the ability to navigate life's financial transitions, especially for women. The...

Thursday, April 24, 2025

Tracking inflation is like herding cats these days. Should you believe the monthly updates from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, what the Fed says about future prices, or your own experience at the grocery store? The answer is maybe a...

Wednesday, April 23, 2025

Happy Administrative Professionals Day to all the hardworking and dedicated professionals out there. Be sure to show your Admins some love and appreciation today. To MY TEAM, your contributions are invaluable and I couldn't do it...

Tuesday, April 22, 2025

U.S. stocks slipped over the shortened trading week as Q1 corporate reports started to roll in. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index dropped 1.50 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index fell 2.62 percent. The Dow Jones Industrial Average...

Tuesday, April 22, 2025

April 22 is Earth Day, a day to do the little (and big) things to reduce your carbon footprint and support a healthy planet. There are many ways in which we can become better stewards of the Earth. We can recycle hazardous materials;...

Sunday, April 20, 2025

The Easter holiday is upon us. Springtime is blooming, and the world is waking up from the colder months. It’s a time of celebration and renewal. In the spirit of this renewal, we just wanted to wish you and yours a Happy Easter.

Friday, April 18, 2025

The March consumer inflation report, which showed some prices at their lowest level in more than four years, was overlooked among all the tariff headlines. Core inflation, which excludes the volatile food and energy factors, rose at a...

Thursday, April 17, 2025

We wanted to remind you that the stock market is closed on Friday for Good Friday. The bond markets will shut down earlier the prior afternoon (today) for Maundy Thursday, also known as Holy Thursday. For those who observe, we wish...

Wednesday, April 16, 2025

Tax season can feel like a relief, especially if you're expecting a refund. While it's tempting to spend that refund on something fun, why not consider using it to strengthen your financial future? Pay Down Debt: If you have...

Tuesday, April 15, 2025

Stocks ended the week with a strong gain as traders continued to focus on tariff talks while appearing to overlook upbeat news on inflation. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index rose 5.70 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index gained 7...

Monday, April 14, 2025

If you’ve ever wondered what makes some people truly financially literate, it’s not just about understanding your budget and investments. Financially literate investors understand that it’s all about setting goals, sticking to a plan,...

Thursday, April 10, 2025

Every investor knows there are highs and lows during the year. The challenge is remaining focused during the lows. As the 2025 tariff talks have progressed, stock prices have seen more down days than up days as the details get rolled...

Wednesday, April 9, 2025

As April rolls around, so does Financial Literacy Month, an opportune time to reinvigorate your approach to managing your finances. While financial literacy might seem like a dry subject, it's essential for building a secure future...

Tuesday, April 8, 2025

Stocks fell broadly last week as domestic and foreign markets reacted to the White House’s tariffs. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index declined 9.08 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index fell 10.02 percent. The Dow Jones Industrial...

Thursday, April 3, 2025

When Warren Buffett said, “Be fearful when others are greedy and be greedy when others are fearful,” he wasn’t just talking about investing. He championed contrarian thinking and urged people to capitalize when groupthink can result...

Tuesday, April 1, 2025

Stocks moved lower last week as investors swung from exuberance to disappointment on news over tariffs and inflation. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index fell 1.53 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index retreated 2.59 percent. The Dow...

Thursday, March 27, 2025

Forget the Fed frenzy and take a timeout from tariff talk. Let's focus on what's really scrambling the markets right now: egg prices. After reaching an all-time high of $8.17 a dozen in early March, prices have trended lower and may...

Tuesday, March 25, 2025

Stocks notched a solid gain last week as upbeat comments from the Fed helped stocks snap their four-week losing streak. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index rose 0.51 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index picked up 0.17 percent. The...

Thursday, March 20, 2025

It’s been a busy few weeks as all the mixed economic signals have unsettled Wall Street—and market volatility is never comfortable for investors. Here’s a short recap, so grab some popcorn. We’re going to cover a lot of ground...

Tuesday, March 18, 2025

Investors endured another volatile, whipsaw week as ongoing trade talks and White House comments about the economy unsettled investors. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index declined 2.27 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index dropped 2...

Monday, March 17, 2025

It's March 17th, St. Patrick’s Day, when the annual celebration of Irish culture begins with parades, festive music, and fun from coast to coast. Celtic music, Irish pastries, corned beef and cabbage, the camaraderie, and the wearing...

Friday, March 14, 2025

We admit that even some of the most recent phishing scams require a second glance. Tactics are getting sneakier and sneakier, and it’s becoming more difficult to recognize scams as easily as in the past. Cybercriminals are always...

Thursday, March 13, 2025

The one day of the year when everyone digs into their Irish roots (no matter how deep they are) and raises a pint of Guinness in celebration. With St. Patrick’s Day upon us, let’s use Guiness to compare to one of our favorite financial...

Tuesday, March 11, 2025

Stocks continued their slide through a volatile week. U.S. trade policy drove much of the market’s movement, broadening investors' concerns about economic growth and inflation. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index declined 3.10 percent,...

Friday, March 7, 2025

Like you, I’ve read a few unsettling headlines in recent weeks–which has led to some moving and shaking on Wall Street. First, we read that “Chinese Start-Up DeepSeek Threatens American Artificial Intelligence Dominance.” That led to...

Thursday, March 6, 2025

The price action in this year’s stock market has me humming the 1970s tune by The Carpenters called “Rainy Days and Mondays.” As the chart shows, Mondays and Fridays have been awful for investors, while the mid-week days have...

Tuesday, March 4, 2025

Stocks were mixed last week as investor concerns over inflation and trade policy combined to produce another volatile trading week. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 0.95 percent, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 Index lost 0.98...

Monday, March 3, 2025

As we continue into 2025, it’s the perfect time to review essential tax updates that could impact your financial plans. Staying ahead of these changes effectively maximizes opportunities, minimizes surprises, and stays on track toward...

Friday, February 28, 2025

“Be fearful when others are greedy and greedy when others are fearful” is one of my favorite quotes by Warren Buffett. His words of wisdom encourage investors to be contrarian. He challenges investors to “go against the grain” when...

Wednesday, February 26, 2025

Have you ever heard the expression, “It’s a buyer’s market?” That phrase describes what’s happening with today’s residential real estate: homes are selling for under their asking price and are taking longer to sell. Good news for...

Tuesday, February 25, 2025

Stocks fell last week as concerns about sticky inflation and the pace of economic growth rattled investors. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index declined 1.66 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index dropped 2.51 percent. The Dow Jones...

Thursday, February 20, 2025

The 2025 Social Security payment schedule has been announced, and we’ve included an attachment with the exact dates to help you stay organized. Payments follow the same pattern, with distribution based on your birth date. If you’re...

Tuesday, February 18, 2025

Stocks advanced last week despite some intra-week volatility as investors showed concern about the economy's strength. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index gained 1.47 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index picked up 2.58 percent. The...

Monday, February 17, 2025

Presidents Day is upon us. It's time to celebrate Washington's birthday and celebrate the founding of our nation. Washington said, "Perseverance and spirit have done wonders in all ages." This Presidents Day, I hope you take a moment...

Friday, February 14, 2025

This Valentine’s Day, take time out of your day-to-day routine and spend time with your significant other. Rekindle the flames of romance — and fall in love all over again. Whether you enjoy a delicious meal together, savor the...

Thursday, February 13, 2025

If the California wildfires have shown us anything recently, life can throw curveballs when we least expect them. We know people who have been affected, and we’re sure you do, too. Whether it's a natural disaster like a wildfire,...

Wednesday, February 12, 2025

Have you ever found yourself scrolling through social media only to stumble across an ad that feels like it was made just for you? Before you know it, you click “Add to Cart” without a second thought. That’s the power of targeted...

Tuesday, February 11, 2025

Stocks posted modest losses last week as tariff deals, January jobs data, and Q4 corporate reports injected volatility into markets. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index slipped 0.24 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index lost 0.53...

Monday, February 10, 2025

What if we told you that skipping a routine doctor’s visit today could cost you tens, if not hundreds, of thousands of dollars in the future? The reality is stark: ignoring preventive healthcare can lead to devastating financial and...

Friday, February 7, 2025

Warren Buffett once said, "If you mix your politics with your investment decisions, you're making a big mistake.” There appears to be some truth in Buffett’s quote following a contentious 2024 election cycle. Check out the chart below...

Wednesday, February 5, 2025

Stocks were mixed last week as investors parsed market-moving news nearly every trading day—from an unsettling AI update to White House news to Q4 corporate reports. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index fell 1.00 percent while the Nasdaq...

Monday, February 3, 2025

The Kansas City Chiefs and the Philadelphia Eagles are set for Super Bowl LIX on Sunday, February 9. Over the years, the Super Bowl has gone from a mere championship game to a cultural event, earning both national and international...

Thursday, January 30, 2025

Economic uncertainty can feel overwhelming. With inflation driving up the cost of living, market volatility shaking investments, and essentials like food and housing becoming more expensive, it's easy to focus on what’s out of our...

Wednesday, January 29, 2025

Stock prices were jolted lower in late January on concerns that a “black swan” event may lead to some restructuring in the artificial intelligence (AI) industry. A Chinese AI firm appears to have developed a competitive AI model that...

Monday, January 27, 2025

Stocks rallied last week as investors reacted positively to a handful of better-than-expected corporate earnings reports and developments out of Washington, D.C. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index gained 1.74 percent, while the Nasdaq...

Thursday, January 23, 2025

Are you in your early sixties and hoping to make a splash in your retirement strategy? The SECURE Act 2.0 introduced a $11,250 catch-up contribution for those aged 60-63. This “super catch-up” is part of a new tiered catch-up...

Tuesday, January 21, 2025

Stocks roared back last week, fueled by upbeat Q4 corporate reports and economic news that stalled inflationary fears. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index rose 2.91 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index advanced 2.45 percent. The Dow...

Tuesday, January 14, 2025

Stocks fell for the second consecutive week as a round of fresh economic data stoked inflationary fears among investors. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index declined 1.94 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index dropped 2.34 percent. The...

Monday, January 13, 2025

You may have heard about the recently signed Social Security Fairness Act and wondered what it was and how it might affect you.The Social Security Fairness Act eliminates two longstanding provisions for Social Security: the Windfall...

Friday, January 10, 2025

As of today, major wildfires continue to ravage Los Angeles County. To all those affected, whether directly or through friends and family, we offer our support, thoughts, and prayers. Disasters of this magnitude are often hard to...

Thursday, January 9, 2025

Inflation is a very personal experience. How it affects you largely depends on the products and services you consistently buy. Over the years, some of you have developed different ways to measure how inflation impacts your daily lives...

Tuesday, January 7, 2025

Stocks edged lower last week despite a powerful end-of-week rally. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index lost 0.48 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index slid 0.51 percent. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 0.60 percent. The MSCI...

Wednesday, January 1, 2025

Sending you warm thoughts and best wishes for a wonderful new year. May the days ahead be filled with joy, laughter, and prosperity for you and those you hold most dear.

Tuesday, December 31, 2024

Stocks notched a slight gain over the holiday week. A tech-driven rally in the first half of the week was clawed back in the second half as investors took profits following the market holiday. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index advanced...

Monday, December 30, 2024

With 2024 coming to a close, here are some thoughts on America's current fiscal policy, geopolitical elements, and other factors that may help shape 2025's financial landscape. This transition period offers both challenges and...

Friday, December 27, 2024

The New Year often brings the pressure of grand resolutions promising major transformations. While the idea of “new year, new me” is inspiring, it can sometimes lead to stress and disappointment when those big changes feel...

Tuesday, December 24, 2024

That special time of year is here – a time of love and happiness and wonder, an occasion when we all draw closer together. This Christmas, I am thinking of you and wishing you and your loved ones all the best the season has to offer....

Monday, December 23, 2024

Stocks were under pressure last week as the Fed Chair's hawkish comments unsettled investors ahead of the holiday season. The Dow Jones Industrial Average received the hardest hit, falling 2.25 percent. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index...

Friday, December 20, 2024

In 2024, we all experienced inflation in different ways. Some felt it at the grocery store, others while traveling, or when dining out. In large part, that's because our personal economic choices dictated at least part of our...

Wednesday, December 18, 2024

If you've noticed your morning brew getting pricier lately, you're not imagining things. Coffee prices have surged to their highest levels since 1977.1 Why the eye-popping prices? While supply chain disruptions and weather issues in...

Monday, December 16, 2024

Stocks finished the week mixed, bookending losses around midweek gains as investors digested fresh inflation data. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index slipped 0.64 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index ticked up 0.34 percent. The Dow...

Thursday, December 12, 2024

Is Santa Claus coming to Wall Street this year? December tends to be a cheerful month for stock prices, which has some investors keeping an eye out for a late-year visit from Santa. As you can see from the chart, since 1950, December...

Tuesday, December 10, 2024

Stocks were mixed during the first trading week of December. Technology stocks led, while the widely followed Dow Jones Industrial Average struggled. The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index picked up 3.34 percent while the Dow...

Monday, December 9, 2024

As the new year approaches, it’s a great time to consider simple strategies that significantly impact your financial goals. One of the best ways to build wealth is by setting up automatic deductions; even small, regular contributions...

Friday, December 6, 2024

Managing money can be challenging! There is still a stigma around discussing personal financial matters, making it difficult sometimes to find individuals to have open conversations about challenges and ideas or to learn from one...

Thursday, December 5, 2024

As the year-end approaches, it's an excellent opportunity to maximize retirement contributions and lock in valuable tax benefits. Retirement accounts such as 401(k)s, IRAs, and Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) offer unique advantages,...

Tuesday, December 3, 2024

Stocks posted solid gains over a short and busy holiday week as investors parsed fresh economic data, comments on potential future trade policy, and a few Q3 reports from technology companies. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index gained 1...

Thursday, November 28, 2024

The warmth of the holiday meal beckons. Thanksgiving is a time for gathering with loved ones and observing gratitude. So, as you gather around the table, look around and give thanks for the family and friends surrounding you. Give...

Wednesday, November 27, 2024

There are some jobs that I just don’t want. The home plate umpire in the 9th inning of a major league baseball game. Fishing in the Bering Sea during an ice storm. Or a Fed Governor who must decide what to do with short-term interest...

Monday, November 25, 2024

Stocks advanced last week, powering ahead with pre-holiday optimism despite geopolitical tensions and two disappointing Q3 corporate updates. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index rose 1.68 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index gained 1...

Thursday, November 21, 2024

Hold everything; stop the presses! There is talk that the Tax Cuts & Jobs Act (TCJA) of 2017 may get extended. With Republicans in control of the legislative and executive branches, most agree that tax reform will be part of the...

Tuesday, November 19, 2024

Stocks fell last week as the postelection rally lost momentum amid an inflation uptick and cautious comments from Fed officials. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index fell 2.08 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index declined 3.15 percent...

Friday, November 15, 2024

Investing comes with a big question: should you time the market—trying to buy low and sell high—or focus on time in the market, holding investments for the long haul? While both approaches can be rewarding, their effectiveness and...

Thursday, November 14, 2024

No Medicare surprises for 2025. As expected, the standard monthly premium for Medicare Part B enrollees will be $185, up $10.30 from 2024. The annual deductible—the amount paid before insurance begins to pay for health services—will...

Wednesday, November 13, 2024

The Federal Reserve approved its second consecutive interest rate cut following its November meeting, telling investors that it’s continuing its push to “right-size monetary policy.” The benchmark Fed funds rate has a target range of...

Monday, November 11, 2024

Stocks surged higher last week, fueled by the Fed’s rate cut decision and post-election enthusiasm as investors looked to future policy impacts of a Republican-controlled Senate and executive branch. (The House of Representatives...

Wednesday, November 6, 2024

Now that election season has ended, it may be helpful to examine how the different combinations of the White House, Senate, and House of Representatives have looked like since 1900. As the accompanying table shows, a Republican or...

Tuesday, November 5, 2024

Stocks slid last week as mixed economic data and strong-but-not-spectacular Q3 corporate reports failed to inspire investors. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index fell 1.36 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index declined 1.50 percent....

Saturday, November 2, 2024

Summer ends, fall begins, and as the seasons change, Daylight Saving Time concludes. You may be wondering: When does the time change happen? The answer is 2:00 a.m. on the first Sunday of November. So remind yourself that you will be...

Friday, November 1, 2024

Stop me if you've heard this one before–“You may care more about the outcome of the presidential election than your portfolio.” As a rule, I avoid discussing politics, but I find it important to contribute some insights as we enter...

Thursday, October 31, 2024

That spooky-yet-sweet time of year is here – Halloween! Whether the costumes you or your kids wear are homemade or store-bought, whether the pumpkins by your home are hard-carved or plastic, whether you trick-or-treat in the...

Wednesday, October 30, 2024

As All Hallows' Eve approaches, it’s the perfect time to get festive and whip up some spooky mocktails that everyone can enjoy. These non-alcoholic potions are perfect for revelers of all ages, ensuring everyone can enjoy them. For...

Tuesday, October 29, 2024

Stocks were mixed last week as fresh economic data points and election-related uncertainty slowed market momentum. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index fell 0.96 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index rose 0.16 percent. The Dow Jones...

Friday, October 25, 2024

The Internal Revenue Service released the updated income tax brackets, standard deduction, and retirement contribution limits for the 2025 tax year. While these changes won’t impact you for some time, it may benefit you to start...

Wednesday, October 23, 2024

Plan for tomorrow, today.That seems like sensible advice, doesn't it? Yet a surprising number of people leave no estate plan in place for their survivors. It makes a certain amount of sense. Nobody likes talking about death. But this...

Monday, October 21, 2024

Stocks posted modest gains last week, with quarterly earnings season in full swing and the election on the horizon. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index increased 0.85 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index rose 0.80 percent. The Dow...

Monday, October 21, 2024

In the playground, when all the kids jumped on one side of the teeter-totter, it rarely ended well. In investing, when all the investors move to one side of a trade, it can suggest that an uptick in market volatility is on the horizon...

Thursday, October 17, 2024

Election day is almost upon us in what could be one of the closest elections in U.S. history. What are the candidate's policies from an economic perspective, and how do they potentially impact investors? Our latest edition of On the...

Wednesday, October 16, 2024

Social Security beneficiaries will see a 2.5% increase in their benefit payments in 2025, according to the Social Security Administration. The annual cost of living (COLA) adjustment will affect more than 72.5 million Social Security...

Tuesday, October 15, 2024

Stocks advanced last week despite mixed inflation data, lurching oil prices, and lingering anxiety about the Middle East. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index gained 1.11 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite rose 1.13 percent. The Dow Jones...

Monday, October 14, 2024

When it comes to financial planning, logic and numbers often take center stage. However, human behavior—our emotions, social influences, and cognitive patterns—can significantly impact financial decisions, sometimes leading us astray....

Friday, October 11, 2024

At last report, nearly six million Americans are under mandatory evacuation orders, making Hurricane Milton one of the largest evacuations in U.S. history. It’s a difficult number to even imagine as that number of evacuees is roughly...

Friday, October 11, 2024

“Stocks climb a wall of worry,” goes the Wall Street maxim. And so far this October, there are plenty of things to worry about. Here’s a quick summary. Middle East: When tensions escalate in the Middle East, the financial markets tend...

Thursday, October 10, 2024

How long has it been since you’ve reviewed your Medicare policy? With open enrollment fast approaching, there are a few questions you may want to ask yourself before you renew, add, drop, or switch coverage. Have you switched doctors,...

Wednesday, October 9, 2024

During this terrible and destructive hurricane season, our hearts are with Asheville, the Gulf Coast, and other impacted communities. If you’re like me, your mind might go to this famous quote by Fred Rogers from television’s Mister...

Tuesday, October 8, 2024

Stocks were essentially unchanged last week as geopolitical tensions added some volatility to an otherwise quiet trading week. The Dow Jones Industrial Average was flat (+0.09 percent), while the Standard & Poor’s 500 Index ticked up...

Monday, October 7, 2024

When you think of financial planning, do you immediately picture retirement? Sure, saving for the golden years is important, but financial planning is so much more than that! It’s a powerful tool to fuel your dreams, passions, and...

Friday, October 4, 2024

Who doesn’t love the surprise of finding an unexpected package at the door? While surprises and gifts are exciting, unsolicited packages from companies or retailers can come with hidden risks. These seemingly harmless items are often...

Thursday, October 3, 2024

A major strike at our nation’s ports has the potential to disrupt the economy over the next few months. On October 1, around 25,000 dockworkers from Massachusetts to Texas, including 300 in Boston, went on strike as negotiations...

Wednesday, October 2, 2024

October is Cyber Security Awareness Month, so we’re going to take a quick minute to be Debbie Downers for a bit and share some information that ideally will save a lot of trouble down the road. Cyber security and fraud are such common...

Monday, September 30, 2024

Stocks moved higher last week, continuing to build on the momentum generated after the Federal Reserve decided to cut short-term rates by 0.50 percent. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index gained 0.59 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite...

Thursday, September 26, 2024

With a 40% drop in the number of public companies in the U.S. market since 1996, private equity now represents more than 85% of companies with revenue above $100 million. Our latest edition of On The Mark discusses why this is...

Tuesday, September 24, 2024

Stocks moved higher last week after the Federal Reserve’s half-point rate cut, bolstered by multiple data points supporting a cooling but still strong economy and decelerating inflation. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index gained 1.36...

Friday, September 20, 2024

When you hear “hot dog” and “inflation” in the same sentence, you might think of those supermarket franks that plump up when cooked. In this case, we’re talking about the original dogs of the ballpark, a cultural touchstone of...

Thursday, September 19, 2024

The Federal Reserve cut the Fed Funds rate by 0.5% at their September 2024 meeting. The start of a rate-cutting cycle is a sign that the period of unusually high inflation is likely over. In this special edition of "On The Mark,"...

Wednesday, September 18, 2024

More than 71 million Social Security beneficiaries can expect a 2.5% cost of living adjustment (COLA) increase in 2025, based on the Q3 inflation data so far. In other words, the COLA will raise the average benefit by $48 to $1,968 a...

Tuesday, September 17, 2024

Stocks rallied last week as investors received better-than-expected consumer and producer inflation data. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 2.60 percent, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 Index gained 4.02 percent. The Nasdaq...

Friday, September 13, 2024

Anticipation is growing for the Fed’s next two-day policy meeting, which ends on September 18, 2024. And with good reason! If the Fed decides to cut short-term interest rates, it would be the first adjustment to be lower in more than...

Thursday, September 12, 2024

Election years, particularly presidential elections, traditionally come into focus after Labor Day. This is when many American voters become fully engaged with the process. With that in mind, I often get the question: “Politics aside,...

Tuesday, September 10, 2024

Stocks fell last week as soft economic data rattled investors focused on the Fed’s next move with interest rates. The Dow Jones Industrial Average lost 2.93 percent, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 Index dropped 4.25 percent. The...

Monday, September 9, 2024

Life insurance is a crucial component of financial planning, providing a safeguard for your loved ones in the event of your untimely passing. However, navigating the world of life insurance can be complex, and many individuals make...

Friday, September 6, 2024

When you’re in retirement, your insurance needs differ from when you were in your earning years. This guide is here to help you navigate which insurance policies you should maintain and which you might consider letting go, providing...

Wednesday, September 4, 2024

If you manage your Social Security benefits online, it’s important to be aware of the upcoming changes to the login process. Starting this fall, the Social Security Administration (SSA) is transitioning to a new, more secure login...

Tuesday, September 3, 2024

There were mixed results for stocks last week as upbeat economic data and a critical Q2 corporate report shaped the week. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 0.94 percent, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 Index increased 0.24 percent...

Friday, August 30, 2024

A holiday with a nice long weekend attached is coming up – Labor Day. This weekend represents the unofficial end of summer as well as a chance to relax, get away, get your mind off work, and enjoy the comforts of home or a great...

Wednesday, August 28, 2024

Now the only question is, “How much will short-term interest rates drop in September?” At his annual speech to global central bankers in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, Fed Chair Powell laid out a strategy to cut short-term interest rates, but...

Tuesday, August 27, 2024

Stocks notched a solid gain as dovish comments from Federal Reserve officials boosted the market’s recovery from early August lows. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index rose 1.45 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite added 1.40 percent. The...

Monday, August 26, 2024

Paying your utility bill each month is likely a standard habit you’ve worked into your monthly budgeting and accounting processes. So, it would likely throw you off if you received a call from “your electric company” stating they...

Friday, August 23, 2024

August is the month when many families take their final summer vacation. It’s also the month when back-to-school preparations start and football season comes into focus. But August has a more unsettling side for investors. It’s a...

Thursday, August 22, 2024

You can probably think of a thousand other things you’d instead do than plan for your own passing, but it’s a necessary evil if you care about your family and loved ones. Hence the need for assigning the role of an executor of your...

Monday, August 19, 2024

Stocks posted solid gains last week, buoyed by robust economic data and constructive comments from Fed officials. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index rose 3.93 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite gained 5.29 percent. The Dow Jones...

Thursday, August 15, 2024

Give a public speech in your pajamas, take a selfie with a sleeping bear, challenge a sumo wrestler to a wrestling match… and update your will. It's not about things we don’t want to do, it's about taking control of your future. Let’s...

Tuesday, August 13, 2024

Stocks ended last week with modest losses, masking a volatile five-day trading period that saw investors embrace recession concerns and then dismiss the slow-down talk as speculation as the week progressed. The Dow Jones Industrial...

Monday, August 12, 2024

When I meet with people, one of the first topics we discuss is "emergency fund" money. I ask a few questions, such as, “Do you have any funds set aside?”, “Where is it located?”, and, most importantly, “What would trigger you to tap...

Friday, August 9, 2024

The trader's adage goes, “The stock market takes the stairs up and the elevator down.” The saying helps illustrate the speed at which stock prices can move, especially over the last few days. Here's how the recent stock market drop...

Thursday, August 8, 2024

A will is more than just a piece of paper; it's a document that outlines your requests for what happens after you pass away. Think of it as your roadmap, ensuring your loved ones (including your furry loved ones) are cared for, your...

Tuesday, August 6, 2024

Stocks fell broadly last week as investors looked past upbeat Fed comments and focused on disappointing corporate reports and weaker-than-expected economic data. The Dow Jones Industrial Average lost 2.20 percent, while the Standard &...

Monday, August 5, 2024

Women often face distinct challenges and considerations when it comes to estate planning. These unique challenges, often overlooked, are crucial to consider. Finding the right estate planner who understands and respects these...

Thursday, August 1, 2024

August is Make a Will Month, a time dedicated to strategizing for the future. You may have seen in the news that Aretha Franklin's loved ones were still caught in a legal battle in 2023, 5 years after her death in 2018, due to the...

Monday, July 29, 2024

Stocks had a mixed, see-saw week as disappointing corporate reports unsettled investors who appeared to rotate away from some leading groups in favor of other names. The Dow Jones Industrial Average picked up 0.75 percent. Meanwhile,...

Friday, July 26, 2024

Have you ever pondered over what your money personality might be? Or maybe you’ve noticed that certain scenarios or emotions impact how you spend (or save) money. Unraveling this part of your personality is not just a fun exercise but...

Thursday, July 25, 2024

My office was busy on Friday. Many of you were concerned about the computer outage that affected everything from travel to doctor’s offices to bank and investment accounts and reached out to share your concerns. It was a bit of a...

Tuesday, July 23, 2024

Stocks were under pressure last week as investors appeared to rotate out of mega-cap tech stocks and into areas that may benefit from lower interest rates. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index fell 1.97 percent, while Nasdaq Composite...

Monday, July 22, 2024

Retirement is often viewed as a distant horizon, but it's a revolution for women. Despite facing challenges like longer lifespans and caregiving responsibilities that interrupt careers and savings, women are seizing an unprecedented...

Friday, July 19, 2024

Retirement is the perfect time to explore new destinations and experience different cultures. However, as a retiree, being well-prepared for your travels is crucial to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey. Here are essential tips to...

Wednesday, July 17, 2024

Investing is often framed as a straightforward journey from point A to point B, where you pick your assets, stay the course, and reap the rewards in the long run. However, life is anything but static. Our priorities, financial goals,...

Tuesday, July 16, 2024

Stocks advanced last week as market leadership shifted amid fresh inflation data and quarterly corporate reports starting to roll in. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index advanced 0.87 percent, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average picked...

Monday, July 15, 2024

Can you believe we’re already halfway through the year? The year is flying by, and with so much going on, it’s easy for financial reviews to take a backseat. Luckily, the summer is a slow time when it comes to financial deadlines, so...

Friday, July 12, 2024

The Standard & Poor’s 500 companies will start reporting on business conditions in Q2 in just a few days. Companies that are comfortable may also give a glimpse into their outlook for Q3 and beyond.1,2 Investors will hear from money...

Wednesday, July 10, 2024

In recent years, the internet has witnessed a surge in "finfluencers"—social media personalities offering their followers financial advice, stock tips, and investment strategies. These influencers have garnered substantial audiences,...

Tuesday, July 9, 2024

Stocks steadily advanced over the holiday week thanks to strength in mega-cap tech issues and encouraging jobs data. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index rose 1.95 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index added 3.50 percent. The Dow Jones...

Sunday, July 7, 2024

We’ve all been there: standing at the checkout counter, tempted by a shiny discount if you sign up for the store’s credit card. But before you get swept away by the promise of immediate savings, it’s worth considering why having...

Friday, July 5, 2024

As you approach retirement, the question of whether to purchase a new vehicle before stepping away from the workforce often arises. It’s a significant decision that can impact your financial landscape and retirement lifestyle. Here’s...

Thursday, July 4, 2024

Independence Day is a welcome reminder of the freedom, equality, and unity that forged our country. It's also a time to find joy in the simple pleasures of summer- be it a family barbecue, a dazzling fireworks display, or a simple...

Wednesday, July 3, 2024

Summer is synonymous with vacations, outdoor activities, and family gatherings, which often lead to increased spending. While it's natural to indulge in seasonal festivities, summer spending can impact your budget and overall...

Monday, July 1, 2024

Stocks finished the last week of June and Q2 mixed as investors digested a fresh round of economic data. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index slipped 0.08%, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average also dipped 0.08 percent. The tech-heavy...

Thursday, June 27, 2024

Emergency. What is the #1 priority of any investment strategy? An emergency fund. This should be created, at least in a small amount to lean on when life throws its curveballs, which it likes to do often. Now, repeat after us: a...

Tuesday, June 25, 2024

Stocks edged higher over the four trading days last week, with the three major averages taking turns leading based on various economic and artificial intelligence (AI) news. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 1.45 percent–its best...

Monday, June 24, 2024

As the Olympic Games are being held this year in Paris, I thought it would be interesting to explore how the Olympians earn their chance at gold, silver, or bronze. It turns out that, just like in the world of finance, the path to the...

Friday, June 21, 2024

“It ain’t over ‘til it’s over.” Words of wisdom from baseball legend Yogi Berra. And words that Fed Chair Jerome Powell has taken to heart. “Inflation has eased over the past year but remains elevated,” Powell said following the Fed’s...

Thursday, June 20, 2024

As you plan for retirement, you focus on covering all the bases, saving enough, having the proper healthcare, and living in your desired location. Yet, an often overlooked but crucial aspect is the potential impact of cognitive...

Wednesday, June 19, 2024

Juneteenth is a celebration of freedom, marking the day when slavery came to an end in the United States. The observance of this holiday, formally recognized by the state of Texas in 1980, has continued to spread to the rest of the...

Tuesday, June 18, 2024

Stocks notched a solid gain last week, driven by the Fed’s decision, May's inflation report, and Apple’s AI-related news. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index rose 1.58 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite picked up 3.24 percent. The Dow...

Monday, June 17, 2024

We've recently read about a few education workshops centered on the increased technology and use of AI (artificial intelligence), specifically ChatGPT, taking place that produced some important insights that we'd like to pass along....

Sunday, June 16, 2024

Today is Father’s Day, a day when we celebrate perhaps the greatest work men do...teaching your children, instilling the lessons that will shape their character and their lives. Is there any work more important? Interestingly,...

Friday, June 14, 2024

The challenge with managing inflation is that there are no brakes. Nothing can make inflation “stop on a dime” and then resume at a nice, predictable two-percent annual rate. Policymakers can only guide inflation to pursue a desired...

Wednesday, June 12, 2024

Ticketmaster is reeling from a data breach. Hackers stole the data of over 500 million customers, compromising information related to ticket sales, including credit card numbers.1 While this news is incredibly troubling, it’s also...

Tuesday, June 11, 2024

Stocks rose last week despite conflicting stories from economic reports. The Dow Jones Industrial Average inched up 0.29 percent while the Standard & Poor’s 500 Index powered ahead 1.31 percent. The Nasdaq Composite led, picking up 2...

Thursday, June 6, 2024

Investors know that the stock market moves in cycles, but the cycle has seen no daily drops of more than 2 percent for over a year. As the accompanying chart shows, the 2023-2024 stretch of low volatility ranks 9th since 1966. Is that...

Tuesday, June 4, 2024

Stocks edged lower in the final week of May as fresh news on economic growth and inflation failed to inspire investors. Stocks Slide Markets shrugged off news that the Q1 Gross Domestic Product was revised lower to 1.3 percent from...

Friday, May 31, 2024

Have you seen the grocery store signs that say, “Buy one, get one,” or “Buy one at $4.99, or get four for $2.99 each?” It’s a concept called “spaving,” a time-tested marketing strategy designed to get consumers to spend more–perhaps...

Wednesday, May 29, 2024

We get regular updates on the Social Security trust fund. In early May, the Social Security Board of Trustees announced that the trust funds had revenue to pay full benefits until 2035. Generally speaking, the headline's tone is very...

Tuesday, May 28, 2024

Last week's stock performance was mixed, following investors' reaction to the Fed's May meeting minutes, while a handful of mega-cap tech companies created a buzz with their news. Market Splits Stocks began trading in a narrow band...

Monday, May 27, 2024

Memorial Day is so much more than a long weekend. It is a chance for us to remember those who gave all for this great nation and the freedoms it offers. This Memorial Day, we pay tribute to the lives and legacies of those who made the...

Friday, May 24, 2024

72% of adults report feeling stressed about finances.* May brings Mental Health Awareness Month so we wanted to take a pause to acknowledge the role money plays in wellness. It's easy to get lost in the numbers and projections,...

Thursday, May 23, 2024

The 2024 Employee Benefit Research Institute (EBRI) Retirement Confidence Survey was recently released, and it provides an illuminating look at the current state of retirement preparations and mindsets across the country. While the...

Tuesday, May 21, 2024

Stocks notched a solid gain last week in a mega-cap, tech-led rally bolstered by positive inflation news. Dow 40,000 The week began quietly as market averages traded in a tight range, awaiting fresh inflation news. On Tuesday, markets...

Monday, May 20, 2024

According to recent studies, a staggering 78% of women report experiencing financial stress, with concerns ranging from debt and insufficient savings to job loss and economic uncertainty. The impact of financial stress goes beyond...

Friday, May 17, 2024

As we inch closer to the second half of 2024, here are three reasons to be optimistic about the outlook for the financial markets. We have an election on the horizon, so you’ll likely hear mixed messages about the economy’s future...

Wednesday, May 15, 2024

Warren Buffett, the “Oracle of Omaha,” held court at the annual Berkshire Hathaway meeting in early May. Few events on the American business calendar are so hotly anticipated, and there is no hotter ticket in Nebraska- perhaps the...

Monday, May 13, 2024

Stocks notched a solid gain last week as rate-cut expectations paced the rally as the Q1 earnings season wound down. Stocks Climb Steadily Monday opened with stocks picking up where they left off the prior Friday. Stocks were still...

Sunday, May 12, 2024

A very special day is returning – Mother’s Day. A day of gratitude, adoration, and relaxation for Mom, a time to treat her like the queen she is. Mother’s Day gives you a chance to touch the hearts of all the mothers in your life. Let...

Thursday, May 9, 2024

Some have been waiting for the Fed to lower interest rates and confirm it will ease monetary policy, which may result in lower home mortgage rates, credit card rates, auto loans, and so forth. However, the Fed went another route at...

Tuesday, May 7, 2024

Stocks notched a solid gain last week, rallying behind upbeat earnings, a dovish Fed, and mixed economic data. Stocks Pop, Drop, Then Rally Markets began the week with an upward bump as positive news from some mega-cap tech companies...

Monday, May 6, 2024

You've likely heard plenty of analogies for it: Don't put your eggs in one basket, don't put it all on one horse, build a house larger than one room. They all lead to the same concept: diversification. Diversification is a fundamental...

Friday, May 3, 2024

One of my responsibilities is keeping you informed when financial forces manifest—even when they reside in a galaxy far, far away. Every year, Star Wars fans use May the 4th (as in, "May the force be with you.") to celebrate their...

Tuesday, April 30, 2024

Stocks staged a choppy comeback last week as investors cheered positive earnings, led by mega-cap tech stocks. The rally came to pass despite fresh data showing a slowing economy and increasing inflationary pressures. Stocks Bounce...

Monday, April 29, 2024

Financial literacy is the ultimate power move for younger investors looking to take control of their financial futures. It's not just about understanding money – it's about mastering the game of personal finance and leveling up your...

Thursday, April 25, 2024

Over the next four weeks, the vast majority of publicly traded companies will update shareholders on business conditions in Q1. It's called "earnings season," and it happens four times a year. So buckle up because it's relatively...

Tuesday, April 23, 2024

Stocks fell for a third straight week, as Fed Chair Jerome Powell's mixed but upbeat message could not offset the anxiety caused by the Middle East conflict. Stocks Retreat Markets began the week rattled by further escalation in the...

Monday, April 22, 2024

I recently read an article in which a financial columnist for a major publication was the victim of an elaborate and expensive scam. The con transpired over several hours, but it began with a phone call from a "trusted" retailer's...

Thursday, April 18, 2024

Let's start this post with the conclusion: Stick with your investment strategy, and don’t let outside influences like the Fed get in your way. Following the Fed these days is like watching an endless point in a tennis match. The...

Tuesday, April 16, 2024

Stocks fell last week as investors sorted through conflicting inflation reports and assessed geopolitical tensions. Inflation Spooks Markets On Wednesday, the March Consumer Price Index (CPI) report rattled markets, revealing that...

Monday, April 15, 2024

In an age where financial decisions can significantly impact one's future, the intersection of social security and financial literacy has become a critical focal point for individuals planning for retirement. Social security, a...

Friday, April 12, 2024

As April gets underway, so does Financial Literacy Month, an opportune time to reinvigorate your approach to managing your finances. While financial literacy might seem like a dry subject, it's essential for building a secure future...

Thursday, April 11, 2024

You’ve heard the expression, “A rising tide lifts all boats.” The same can be true for the financial markets. “A market rally creates wealth (and may help manage debt, too).” As you can see in the first chart, U.S. households have...

Tuesday, April 9, 2024

Stocks dropped last week as investors focused on “what's next” for interest rates after mixed comments from multiple Fed officials. Fed Officials Weigh In Stocks struggled out of the gate again last week, ending Monday and Tuesday in...

Friday, April 5, 2024

Social Security, a cornerstone of America's social safety net, has long been a subject of concern and debate. One persistent myth is that Social Security is on the brink of bankruptcy. However, this assertion is not only misleading...

Thursday, April 4, 2024

As a rule, I avoid drawing attention to market anomalies unless I believe there’s a good investing lesson for everyone. The unusual price action in the cocoa market is giving me that opportunity. So today’s lesson is, “hindsight is...

Tuesday, April 2, 2024

Stocks were narrowly higher for the week as investors digested mixed economic news about consumer confidence. All three of the major averages posted gains for Q1 2024. Stocks Finish Strong Markets slipped for the first half of the...

Sunday, March 31, 2024

The Easter holiday is upon us. Springtime is blooming, and the world is waking up from the colder months. It’s a time of celebration and renewal. In the spirit of this renewal, I just wanted to wish you and yours a Happy Easter.

Friday, March 29, 2024

It's the month of women! As we celebrate Women's History Month, we wanted to take some time to recognize and honor the contributions of some women who have broken barriers, shattered glass ceilings, and paved the way for future...

Thursday, March 28, 2024

When you see hypothetical examples of stock market performance, the illustrations often use average annual returns of between 8% and 10%. But how often does the stock market return between 8% and 10%? Only four times in the past 76...

Wednesday, March 27, 2024

We wanted to remind you that the stock market is closed on Friday for Good Friday. The bond markets will shut down earlier the prior afternoon for Maundy Thursday, also known as Holy Thursday. For those who observe, we wish you well...

Tuesday, March 26, 2024

Stocks posted their best week of the year, sparked by news that the dovish Fed decided to keep rates steady and signaled three rate cuts were still possible this year. Stocks Bounce Back As widely expected, the Fed left rates...

Monday, March 25, 2024

Last week, I was shocked to read about a change to the real estate industry that may have far-reaching implications for future home buyers. The National Association of Realtors, representing over 1.5 million real estate agents, has...

Saturday, March 23, 2024

I recently read that 47 percent of parents provide their adult children with financial support. Termed "parental patronage" by many, some parents even contribute more to their adult children than they do to their retirement accounts....

Thursday, March 21, 2024

Economists describe a Goldilocks economy as one that’s not too hot and not too cold; it’s just right. And 2024 is starting to feel just right. When the Fed started to raise short-term interest rates in early 2022 to rein...

Tuesday, March 19, 2024

Stocks fell for the second straight week on inflation concerns despite a report on consumer prices that was initially well received by investors. Stocks Slide Tuesday was the only bright spot during the week as stock prices rose after...

Sunday, March 17, 2024

What happens on March 17? What makes today so special? If you are of Irish descent or Irish at heart, you surely know – it is St. Patrick’s Day! On this day, the patron saint of Ireland is honored and celebrated, and green...

Thursday, March 14, 2024

As we continue through 2024, I wanted to share some data that many may find positive. Fidelity Investments just announced that 440,000 retirement savers reached an incredible milestone in 2023: $1 million in their 401(k).1 That's...

Wednesday, March 13, 2024

On financial websites, you may read, "First-quarter corporate reports were better than expected.” And that’s true. So far, 73% of Standard & Poor’s 500 companies have reported actual Q4 earnings per share above...

Tuesday, March 12, 2024

Stocks were down for the week as investors appeared to take some profits and traders parsed Fed Chair Jerome Powell’s Congressional testimony. Markets Wobble  Stocks had a rough start to the week, with the Dow, S&P 500, and...

Friday, March 8, 2024

In 1920, women earned the right to vote. In 1974, single and divorcedwomen were finally able to get a credit card without needing a male cosigner. We’ve come a long way, and this year we are celebrating International...

Thursday, March 7, 2024

The days are about to get longer. Daylight Saving Time will begin on the second Sunday of March (March 10) at 2:00am. At that moment, clocks will “spring forward” by one hour in most of the nation. So, be sure to reset...

Wednesday, March 6, 2024

Tax season is upon us when we reconcile our dues with Uncle Sam. However, it's also a period when some unscrupulous individuals exploit this necessity, conducting scams to defraud unsuspecting taxpayers. In this digital age, tax scams...

Tuesday, March 5, 2024

Stocks extended their tech-led advance last week as signs of a resilient and still-enthusiastic consumer boosted momentum. Nasdaq Sets New High Stocks traded in a narrow band early in the week but ended the five-trading sessions with...

Monday, March 4, 2024

Are you a HENRY?  No, we're not talking about your name. Or any other well-known Henrys—Ford, Fonda, Winkler, or one of the kings of England. Being a HENRY stands for something more empowering—it stands for "high...

Friday, March 1, 2024

It's Women's History Month! To celebrate, we wanted to dive into the inspiring journeys of three women financial trailblazers who have transformed the investing world. In the traditionally male-dominated field of finance, these...

Thursday, February 29, 2024

Wall Street keeps asking, “When will the Fed start cutting interest rates?” But perhaps the better question is, “What is the Fed looking for before it would consider cutting interest rates?” As you may recall,...

Tuesday, February 27, 2024

Stocks vaulted to new heights last week on the back of an artificial intelligence (AI) semiconductor company, marking investors’ belief that AI has the potential to transform the U.S. economy. Stocks Rally to Record Highs Stocks...

Friday, February 23, 2024

As tax season looms, getting organized for tax filing ensures a stress-free experience and lays the groundwork for easy access to past tax records. As you're pulling together this year's tax documents and filing, we wanted to send...

Thursday, February 22, 2024

Over the years, I've come to believe that learning to navigate financial discussions and events in a relationship is a "must" that transcends generations. However, recent data shows that Gen Z and Millennial couples are forging their...

Tuesday, February 20, 2024

Stocks fell last week as investors reacted to disappointing inflation updates and other economic reports that fell short of estimates. Stocks Snap Winning Streak Markets were quiet Monday but opened lower Tuesday in response to the...

Thursday, February 15, 2024

Individuals often focus on accumulating wealth and building a robust portfolio in the search for financial success and security. However, a critical aspect sometimes overlooked is the profound connection between long-term health and...

Tuesday, February 13, 2024

The stock market experienced solid gains last week, concluding the trading week on a positive note, thanks to robust corporate reports and favorable inflation news; this propelled the S&P 500 Index to achieve a new record high at the...

Monday, February 12, 2024

I can't remember the last time there was such a wide divergence in the outlook for short-term interest rates. But, some confusion is to be expected when the Federal Reserve primes the markets for lower rates but provides few details....

Sunday, February 11, 2024

February 14 is approaching and it’s the perfect time to let your special someone know how much they mean to you. Love is built one moment at a time, one day at a time. Whether your romance is just coming into bloom or has...

Saturday, February 10, 2024

As the much-anticipated Super Bowl LVIII draws nearer, I thought sharing some fascinating details about the big event that will have us all on the edge of our seats would be interesting. Let's huddle up and review the stats that make...

Friday, February 9, 2024

Your credit score is more than just a number; it reflects your financial health. Loving your credit score is a crucial aspect of fostering overall economic well-being. This article will explore what qualifies as a good credit score,...

Wednesday, February 7, 2024

Are you in or are you out? Sometimes it’s hard to tell! Investing is a unique journey, often resembling a love "situationship" where emotions can sway like the market. The exhilarating highs of gains may ignite feelings of love,...

Tuesday, February 6, 2024

Stocks pushed higher last week as investors cheered mega-cap tech corporate reports and a better-than-expected employment report. Stocks at New Highs At the beginning of the week, stocks surged, anticipating fourth-quarter corporate...

Monday, February 5, 2024

Everyone’s favorite sports holiday is around the corner … Superbowl Sunday! Not only does the big game significantly impact the overall economy, but the Super Bowl has long-lasting effects on the economy of the hosting...

Friday, February 2, 2024

In investing, emotions often play a significant role in decision-making. Emotional Bias, akin to a love language, can subtly guide investors through the highs and lows of the financial market. Understanding the impact of emotional...

Thursday, February 1, 2024

We invite you to join us in a Frugal February Challenge as we enter February! It's an opportunity to reassess our spending habits, prioritize financial goals, and make conscious choices to benefit long-term financial well-being. Here...

Wednesday, January 31, 2024

It may not seem like it, but one of the foundational pillars of financial success is often overlooked– the emergency fund. And guess what…your credit card doesn't count. So, we're saying you should set aside a large chunk...

Monday, January 29, 2024

Stocks continued their upward climb last week as excitement around big tech continued; positive economic reports stoked investors’ belief that the Federal Reserve has pulled off a soft landing. Stocks Power Ahead Big tech was...

Thursday, January 25, 2024

By almost any measure, 2023 was a terrific year for stock prices. The Standard & Poor’s 500 index finished up 24%, closing out the year with a nine-week winning streak.1 But throughout January, the naysayers were out in force...

Tuesday, January 23, 2024

Stocks finished higher last week, with big tech again leading amid lingering uncertainty over how continued economic strength would influence the Fed’s rate decision. Stocks Dip, Then Rally  Stock prices dropped early in...

Friday, January 19, 2024

If you’re like most of us, you’ve probably been thinking about your health quite a bit lately — especially if you’re approaching retirement. Trust me, I understand. Anticipating your future medical costs can...

Wednesday, January 17, 2024

Stocks pushed higher last week, led by big tech names and boosted by December inflation reports that were mixed but positive enough to shore up investor confidence in Fed rate cuts this year. Stocks Rock and Roll It was a rocky week...

Tuesday, January 16, 2024

Making smarter money decisions often tops New Year’s Resolutions, with a little over 70% of Americans creating goals centered around that theme. Sadly, only less than 10% of people are successful in keeping goals. If...

Friday, January 12, 2024

This month, America honors the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. As we look around today, we see manifestations of that legacy in the form of stronger, more diverse communities, in the continued fight for equality, and in the...

Wednesday, January 10, 2024

As we usher in a new year, it's the perfect time to set impactful resolutions to pave the way for financial prosperity. It all starts with the ability and dedication to save. Here are some strategies to make 2024 a year of saving and...

Tuesday, January 9, 2024

Stocks retreated in the first trading week of 2024, struggling a bit after a celebratory end to last year as investors second-guessed Fed signals and fretted over lingering inflation concerns. New Year Blues Stocks got off to a rough...

Sunday, January 7, 2024

Retirement marks the beginning of a new chapter, a time to explore passions, savor life's simple pleasures, and create lasting memories. As retirees embark on this exciting journey, creating a retirement bucket list becomes a powerful...

Friday, January 5, 2024

As we start off on a new year, the prospect of achieving significant financial goals becomes an exciting reality. In fact, financial related resolutions are second in line right behind fitness. But not all resolutions are created...

Thursday, January 4, 2024

As we venture into the new year, it's an opportune time to revisit your retirement savings strategy. 2024 brings updated contribution limits, allowing you to increase your savings and capitalize on the tax benefits they bring. Here...

Tuesday, January 2, 2024

Stocks posted a slight gain last week amid a shortage of news and light holiday trading. The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 0.76%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 added 0.49%. The Nasdaq Composite index advanced 0.32% for...

Sunday, December 31, 2023

Sending you warm thoughts and best wishes for a wonderful new year. May the days ahead be filled with joy, laughter, and prosperity for you and those you hold most dear.

Wednesday, December 27, 2023

Time's Person of the Year, Taylor Swift, is shaking off economic downturns and hitting high notes not just on stage but in the U.S. economy, too. The pop sensation's impressive impact extends beyond her record-breaking music, reaching...

Tuesday, December 26, 2023

Investor optimism and fears of missing out on future gains propelled stocks higher in the last full week of trading before year-end. The Dow Jones Industrial Average added 0.22%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 gained 0.75%. The...

Friday, December 22, 2023

Once again, the year has flown by! In these final weeks of the year, our thoughts often turn to the comforts of home and family — of sharing good cheer with neighbors, friends, and loved ones. In that spirit, I would like to...

Wednesday, December 20, 2023

Fed Chair Powell finally made his much-anticipated “pivot” at the close of the Fed’s two-day December meeting, saying he sees short-term rates heading lower next year. Perhaps much lower. Surprised but excited, the...

Tuesday, December 19, 2023

Markets reacted positively last week to cooler inflation and the idea of potential rate cuts next year, adding to the gains of the market’s year-end rally. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 2.92%, while the Standard &...

Wednesday, December 13, 2023

The holiday season is a time for celebrating and connecting with family and friends. It’s also a time of increased spending. Many consumers rely on electronic methods to cover the cost of gifts, travel, parties and gatherings,...

Tuesday, December 12, 2023

A late-week, two-day rally left stocks higher, adding to November’s gains as the last month of trading for 2023 began. The Dow Jones Industrial Average was flat (+0.01%), while the Standard & Poor’s 500 gained 0.21%. The...

Monday, December 11, 2023

As winter approaches, it's not just your home that needs preparation—your finances do, too. The holiday season, the dawn of a new year, and the unique financial demands of winter can impact your budget. Here's a guide to help...

Sunday, December 10, 2023

Debt can feel like a heavy snowball rolling downhill, gaining size and momentum. But what if you could use that snowball effect to your advantage? Enter the snowball strategy of debt repayment – a powerful method to tackle debt...

Saturday, December 9, 2023

Women often find themselves orchestrators of holiday magic, the epicenter of planning, gifting, cooking, and orchestrating festive feasts. While spreading joy to loved ones, it can be challenging for women to prioritize personal and...

Thursday, December 7, 2023

The Senate and the House have returned to work but are unlikely to get much done before the Christmas break— which means January is going to be busy. To recap, Congress passed a short-term budget package before the Thanksgiving...

Wednesday, December 6, 2023

A Friday rally turned an otherwise mixed week for stocks into a solid performance. The Dow Jones Industrial Average picked up 2.42%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 gained 0.77%. The Nasdaq Composite index rose 0.38% for the...

Thursday, November 30, 2023

The holiday season is a time of joy, celebration, and generosity. It's also a period when many people tend to overspend, often leading to financial stress in the new year. But, for those committed to accumulating wealth, setting a...

Tuesday, November 28, 2023

Investor enthusiasm for stocks remained strong last week, buoyed by declining bond yields in a holiday-abbreviated trading week. The Dow Jones Industrial Average picked up 1.27%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 gained 1.00%. The...

Wednesday, November 15, 2023

The Internal Revenue Service recently released updated income tax brackets, standard deduction, and retirement contribution limits for the 2024 tax year. While these taxes are not due for some time, it may benefit you to start...

Tuesday, November 14, 2023

A powerful Friday rally left stocks higher last week, extending the market’s early November gains. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 0.65%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 advanced 1.31%. The Nasdaq Composite index...

Friday, November 10, 2023

On November 11, we honor the bravery and sacrifice of those who have served America in the armed forces. It is also a time to appreciate the commitment of our active military personnel and their dedicated families. Let us honor their...

Wednesday, November 8, 2023

Many consider the University of Michigan the gold standard for reporting on consumer sentiment and trends. Among its 50 monthly reports, the most well-known is the "UMich Consumer Sentiment" survey, which measures consumer confidence....

Tuesday, November 7, 2023

Stocks ripped higher last week on a dramatic retreat in bond yields triggered by easing inflation and a slowing labor market. The Dow Jones Industrial Average jumped 5.07%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 surged 5.85%. The...

Friday, November 3, 2023

Investors know that the stock market moves in cycles, but few are comfortable when the cycle takes stock prices lower. And since late August, the cycle has been decidedly lower. If you’re looking for reasons to worry, you...

Thursday, November 2, 2023

I've seen the "Boomerang Generation" in more than a few headlines lately. These young adults return, or "boomerang," to their parents' homes as they attempt to navigate the property market. The key culprit is mortgage rates nearing...

Wednesday, November 1, 2023

Snickers! Skittles! Starbursts! While we have our favorites, we are equal-opportunity candy lovers, undoubtedly in the same way you are. But you can ingest only so many M&Ms before it’s time to get back to normal. Luckily, there...

Tuesday, October 31, 2023

Amid a busy week of corporate earnings reports, stocks slumped on cautious earnings guidance, fears of higher interest rates, and growing anxiety over the increasing amount of Treasury bonds and notes coming to market. The Dow Jones...

Tuesday, October 31, 2023

That spooky-yet-sweet time of year is coming – Halloween! Whether the costumes you or your kids wear are homemade or store-bought, whether the pumpkins by your home are hard-carved or plastic, whether you trick-or-treat in the...

Monday, October 30, 2023

The Social Security Administration recently announced that over 71 million Americans, including Social Security and Supplemental Security Income beneficiaries, will receive a 3.2% increase in their benefits for 2024.1 However, it is...

Friday, October 27, 2023

A lot of number crunching needs to happen before the advanced estimate for Q3 Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is released. The Atlanta Fed expects Q3 GDP to check in at over 5 percent. Meanwhile, blue-chip economists are forecasting...

Thursday, October 26, 2023

You may have heard the idea that the Fed is trying to “thread a needle” with the economy by raising interest rates to slow growth but not cause a recession. Well, we’re at crunch time with that plan. We’re at...

Wednesday, October 25, 2023

The Social Security Administration has announced a 3.2% Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) for 2024. This adjustment means the average Social Security retiree beneficiary will see their monthly check increase by about $57 to $1,849,...

Tuesday, October 24, 2023

Rising bond yields and uncertainty over whether this was the close of the Fed’s rate-hike cycle dragged markets lower last week despite solid corporate earnings results. The Dow Jones Industrial Average sank 1.61%, while the...

Monday, October 16, 2023

October brings a dedicated financial focus on many critical financial concepts, including financial planning, estate planning, and long-term care planning. The rising incidence of elder financial abuse is one pressing concern that...

Sunday, October 15, 2023

As a financial professional, I've had the privilege of helping individuals and families secure their financial futures for many years. Much like warding off the monsters under the bed, estate planning is about protecting yourself and...

Friday, October 13, 2023

The Israel/Hamas war is a terrible human tragedy and may escalate in the coming weeks. Christian Chan, CFA, Chief Investment Officer for AssetMark, Inc., shares how, despite the human tragedy of this war, the investment impact on US...

Thursday, October 12, 2023

The Fed’s ongoing pledge of “higher interest rates for longer” has rattled financial markets and raised the cost of everything from mortgages to credit cards. Now adding to tensions are the recent events in the...

Wednesday, October 11, 2023

A Friday rally overcame a shaky week, sending stocks mostly higher. The Dow Jones Industrial Average slipped 0.30% for the week. Meanwhile, the Standard & Poor’s 500 gained 0.48%, and the Nasdaq Composite index added 1.60% for...

Monday, October 9, 2023

In celebration of the culture and history of the first people to inhabit North America, we observe Indigenous Peoples’ Day. As cities and states update their local observances across our nation, it’s important to...

Thursday, October 5, 2023

I hope this email finds you in high "spirits" as we approach the spookiest time of the year. As the days creep closer to Halloween, confectioners weave a sweet web in preparation for this enchanting holiday. Did you know that the...

Thursday, October 5, 2023

If you're a fan of Warren Buffett, you'll recognize this quote: "Be fearful when others are greedy and greedy when others are fearful." In recent weeks, the investing outlook has become a bit murky, which has led some people to let...

Tuesday, October 3, 2023

Rising bond yields and government shutdown fears left stocks in mostly negative territory for the week. The Dow Jones Industrial Average lost 1.34%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 slipped 0.74%. The Nasdaq Composite index was...

Monday, October 2, 2023

Medicare’s annual open enrollment period begins October 15 and ends December 7. During this time, current Medicare beneficiaries have the option to adjust their coverage for the coming year. Any changes to your plan will go into...

Friday, September 29, 2023

We’ve all been there. You’re scrolling through your phone, computer, or tablet, and a notification pops up. “Update Me!” While that isn’t the exact wording, the meaning is the same. Something wants to be...

Thursday, September 28, 2023

So, what happens during a government shutdown, and how might this affect you? Unless the government employs you or you are planning a trip to the Smithsonian, you might not even notice. Social Security checks will arrive as scheduled,...

Wednesday, September 27, 2023

Have you ever heard the expression, "If you love sausages, never watch how they're made?" The same is true of stock prices. Warren Buffett once said, "I would tell [investors], don’t watch the market closely." In recent weeks,...

Tuesday, September 26, 2023

Rising bond yields and fears of a government shutdown hammered stocks last week, with technology shares bearing the brunt of the retreat. The Dow Jones Industrial Average lost 1.89%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 dropped 2.93%...

Friday, September 22, 2023

In light of the recent cyberattack in Las Vegas, I want to address an increasingly critical issue in today's digital age: cybersecurity. Hackers are increasingly using a tactic known as "social engineering," which involves hacking...

Wednesday, September 20, 2023

Sometimes, a picture tells a thousand words, and this chart of the M1 money supply certainly does just that. M1 rose rapidly during the pandemic due to an effort to provide stimulus packages to those who suffered financial loss during...

Tuesday, September 19, 2023

Stocks ended the week roughly where they began as investors digested a mixed set of new economic data. The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 0.12%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 slipped 0.16%. The Nasdaq Composite index fell...

Thursday, September 14, 2023

Have you ever heard the expression, “It’s a headline risk for the markets?” Headline risk is the chance that an unsettling news event–anticipated or a surprise–can add volatility to the financial markets....

Wednesday, September 13, 2023

Concerns that the Fed may raise interest rates soured investor sentiment, sending stocks lower in a holiday-shortened trading week. The Dow Jones Industrial Average slipped 0.75%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 declined 1.29%....

Tuesday, September 12, 2023

Remember when a college education was reasonably priced? In the past 20 years, the cost of college tuition for public universities has risen 165%. College students and their families have been taking on more and more debt, and they...

Monday, September 11, 2023

Much time has passed since the events of September 11, 2001, and while in some ways it feels like a lifetime ago, the memory remains painfully fresh in my mind. An attack on U.S. soil. The loss of thousands of lives. In the wake of...

Thursday, September 7, 2023

As we observe National Disaster Preparedness Month, we are reminded of the importance of being ready for the unexpected. Whether it's a natural disaster, unforeseen emergency, or the need for comprehensive estate planning, having all...

Tuesday, September 5, 2023

Falling bond yields–spurred by weak economic data–helped lift stocks to weekly gains. The Dow Jones Industrial Average advanced 1.43%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 gained 2.50%. The Nasdaq Composite index...

Sunday, September 3, 2023

More than just a bookend to the summer season, Labor Day is a celebration of workers' contributions to the well-being of our country and the economy. Labor Day was first celebrated on Sept. 5, 1882, in New York City, in accordance...

Friday, September 1, 2023

As we observe National Disaster Preparedness Month, we are reminded of the importance of being ready for the unexpected. Whether it's a natural disaster, unforeseen emergency, or the need for comprehensive estate planning, having all...

Wednesday, August 30, 2023

If it feels like the financial markets are lurching from news event to news event in recent weeks, you’re right. They are. The markets were on pins and needles waiting for Fed Chair Powell to deliver his talk at the Jackson Hole...

Tuesday, August 29, 2023

Stocks fluctuated last week, jostled by fitful bond yields and headline news, before ending strongly following Fed Chair Powell’s comments on the monetary outlook. The Dow Jones Industrial Average slipped 0.45%, while the...

Monday, August 28, 2023

The stock market rebound has significantly increased the number of workers with $1 million or more in their workplace retirement accounts. According to Fidelity Investments, employees with 401(k) balances exceeding $1 million rose 26...

Friday, August 25, 2023

Nobody ever said you have to like a pullback in stock prices. But it's critical to understand 1) why they happen and 2) why they are challenging. A pullback is considered a moderate drop in prices from recent peaks that occur within a...

Thursday, August 24, 2023

As we approach the back-to-school season, I wanted to discuss an important topic that might be on your mind: the cost of education. Whether you have children or grandchildren preparing for college or considering furthering your...

Tuesday, August 22, 2023

Stocks extended their August declines last week as higher yields and weak economic data out of China soured investor sentiment. The Dow Jones Industrial Average lost 2.21%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 retreated 2.11%. The...

Friday, August 18, 2023

Wall Street is slowly starting to talk about an “expansion economy” and forgetting about any recession fears. July’s consumer inflation report was soft, so attention will soon shift to gross domestic product in the...

Thursday, August 17, 2023

August is Make a Will Month, a time dedicated to strategizing for the future. You may have seen in the news that Aretha Franklin's loved ones are still caught in a legal battle due to the existence of multiple wills. The lesson from...

Wednesday, August 16, 2023

Why is August a volatile month? One simple reason: many people are on vacation. And when people are out of the office, the financial markets often see less trading, which can cause big price swings following news events. The Fitch...

Tuesday, August 15, 2023

Positive inflation data failed to lift stocks from their August doldrums last week as economic data and a ratings downgrade soured investor sentiment. The Dow Jones Industrial Average added 0.62%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500...

Monday, August 14, 2023

It's that time again! As we approach the back-to-school season, we understand the financial strain it can place on families. However, with some planning and a commitment to a budget, you can avoid overspending on school supplies. We...

Tuesday, August 8, 2023

Stocks retreated last week as bond yields increased following the Treasury's announcement indicating “a larger-than-expected funding need” and a downgrade in the federal government’s debt rating. The Dow Jones...

Sunday, August 6, 2023

The irrevocable life insurance trust (ILIT) can be an important estate strategy tool that may accomplish a number of estate objectives; however, it may not be appropriate for every individual. (Read more)

Friday, August 4, 2023

August is here, the month of simplicity and decluttering! As we embark on "Simplify Your Life Week," it's the perfect opportunity to take a step back, reassess our priorities, and streamline our lives for greater peace and fulfillment...

Wednesday, August 2, 2023

The Federal Reserve has a dual mandate—manage inflation and maximize employment. But sometimes, those economic goals conflict with each other. As you can see in the accompanying chart, labor shortages in 2022 pressured...

Tuesday, August 1, 2023

A Friday surge pushed stocks solidly into positive territory last week, ignited by cooling in an inflation gauge closely tracked by the Federal Reserve. The Dow Jones Industrial Average advanced 0.66%, while the Standard &...

Tuesday, July 25, 2023

Like some of my clients, you may have seen the latest regarding Aretha Franklin's estate.The Queen of Soul passed in 2018, and years later, her loved ones are still caught in legal trials thanks to the existence of multiple wills.As...

Friday, July 21, 2023

Sometimes, a picture is worth 1,000 words. So I decided to include an image of the June Consumer Price Index (CPI) report to help put inflation in better perspective:Core CPI, which excludes volatile food and energy prices, rose just 0...

Thursday, July 20, 2023

Better-than-expected updates last week on consumer and wholesale price inflation buoyed investor sentiment, driving stocks higher and lower bond yields. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 2.29%, while the Standard &...

Friday, July 14, 2023

Now that summer is in full swing, it's the perfect time to take a trip. But sometimes, even your best-laid plans go a little off-kilter.Here are a few of the most common travel issues and how to make sure that no matter what happens,...

Thursday, July 13, 2023

In advance of 2023, the recession drum beats were so loud it was deafening. Market pundits warned that as the Fed raised interest rates, it was just a matter of time before the economy entered a recession.But it’s July now, and...

Tuesday, July 11, 2023

Rising concerns about further rate hikes sent stocks lower to kick off the second half of trading.The Dow Jones Industrial Average lost 1.96%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 retreated 1.16%. The Nasdaq Composite index...

Monday, July 10, 2023

Does the idea of early retirement ignite a spark within you? In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, many dream of the day when we can break free from the grind and live on our terms. That's where the Financial Independence Retire...

Sunday, July 9, 2023

Financial independence is a term that is often thrown around, but its true meaning goes far beyond merely accumulating wealth. It encompasses the ability to live life on your terms, free from the constraints of financial stress and the...

Friday, July 7, 2023

As the Fed continues its fight against inflation, one of the more challenging parts of the economy is gauging what's happening in the jobs market.One July report showed the private sector added nearly 500,000 jobs, double the...

Wednesday, July 5, 2023

Market timing is exhausting. And sometimes, it can be expensive. When you time the markets, you have to be right twice – first when getting out and second when getting back in.In the accompanying chart, you can see individual...

Tuesday, July 4, 2023

Independence Day serves as an occasion to reflect upon the principles and values that define the United States of America.This is a time to honor our founders' vision, courage, and sacrifices, through which they secured the cherished...

Monday, July 3, 2023

Stocks posted gains for the week to close out a stellar month, aided by positive economic data and reports that all major banks had passed the Federal Reserve’s annual stress test.The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 2.02%,...

Friday, June 23, 2023

The U.S. Department of Education has officially announced that student loan payments will resume in October, ending the three-year-long pause that was implemented due to the pandemic.Starting September 1, interest will begin accruing...

Friday, June 23, 2023

Jerome Powell skipped an interest rate hike at the Fed’s June meeting, but the market isn’t buying what the Fed Chair is selling about what’s next with short-term rates.Powell signaled that two more rate increases may...

Thursday, June 22, 2023

Jerome Powell skipped an interest rate hike at the Fed’s June meeting, but the market isn’t buying what the Fed Chair is selling about what’s next with short-term rates.Powell signaled that two more rate increases may...

Wednesday, June 21, 2023

Here’s a riddle. “I’m a two-word phrase that we heard almost every day for two years, but it has dropped from almost all economic talk in 2023?”Answer: Supply chain.As you can see from the accompanying chart,...

Tuesday, June 20, 2023

Stocks climbed last week as reassuring inflation data boosted investor hopes that the rate-hike cycle was nearing an end amid fresh economic data pointing to continued economic resilience.The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 1.25%,...

Friday, June 9, 2023

You may have heard the saying, “inflation hurts savers and benefits borrowers.” The expression suggests that borrowers benefit from inflation because they pay back lenders with dollars worth less than when the money...

Thursday, June 8, 2023

Have you saved enough? Whether you started late, or have regularly saved throughout your career, you might wish you could stash some additional cash in your retirement fund. Fortunately, if you’re 50 or older, you can. The IRS...

Wednesday, June 7, 2023

Now that the debt ceiling negotiations are behind us and President Biden has signed the measure, what will Wall Street's wandering eye focus on next?Inflation? Interest rates? Recession? Artificial intelligence?More than likely,...

Tuesday, June 6, 2023

Stocks surged higher in the closing days of a holiday-shortened trading week, ignited by a political resolution on raising the debt ceiling and a strong employment report.The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 2.02%, while the Standard...

Thursday, June 1, 2023

Markets moved in sync last week with perceived movement in debt ceiling talks, weakening early in the week and then surging on news of progress. A solid quarterly report and guidance from a mega-cap technology company helped with...

Monday, May 29, 2023

Memorial Day is so much more than a long weekend. It is a chance for us to remember those who gave all for this great nation and the freedoms it offers.This Memorial Day, we pay tribute to the lives and legacies of those who...

Thursday, May 25, 2023

It's the month of May, the month that ushers in everyone's favorite holiday. No, not Mother's Day, Memorial Day, or Cinco de Mayo.National 529 Day!While we are big fans of all of the above; 529 Day is a dedicated time to focus on...

Wednesday, May 24, 2023

What is a bull market, and more importantly, who determines if we are in one?Technically speaking, a bull market is defined as a 20% gain in a stock market index, such as the Standard & Poor's 500, from a closing low.So are we in one?...

Tuesday, May 23, 2023

Stocks rallied last week, propelled by growing optimism over reaching a deal on raising the debt ceiling and avoiding a technical debt default by the U.S.The Dow Jones Industrial Average edged 0.38% higher, while the Standard &...

Saturday, May 20, 2023

Would it surprise you to hear that investors have moved past worrying about inflation? They have, at least for now.Wall Street has shifted its attention to Washington’s budget negotiations and how the debt ceiling will be...

Friday, May 19, 2023

May is Jewish American Heritage Month!Established in 2006 by President George W. Bush after years of advocacy by Jewish leaders, this month-long celebration recognizes Jewish Americans' essential role in U.S. history.We are incredibly...

Thursday, May 18, 2023

Summer’s here, and the time is right for fun in the sun (or shade). Like many of us, you’re probably looking forward to an extended getaway or family trip. But summer also means planning for hot weather, which can come with...

Thursday, May 18, 2023

Stocks were mixed last week as good inflation news was offset by mounting debt ceiling concerns and rekindled regional banking fears.The Dow Jones Industrial Average lost 1.11%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 slipped 0.29%. The...

Thursday, May 11, 2023

Each May is Older Americans Month, a time to celebrate the wisdom of aging people, recognize their many contributions, and facilitate discussions related to older adults. This year’s observance coincides with the 2023 Retirement...

Wednesday, May 10, 2023

Don't hold a surprise birthday party for Jerome Powell. He would hate it. And if you plan on visiting the Fed Chair, call first. He doesn't like surprises.Powell delivered on his March promise at the most recent Fed meeting by...

Tuesday, May 9, 2023

A Friday rebound, triggered by a big tech company’s earnings beat and a strong jobs report, shaved much of the week’s accumulated losses.The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 1.24%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500...

Friday, May 5, 2023

Thursday, May 4, 2023

Financial markets can be challenging to understand. And when markets enter a “bad news is good news” cycle, it becomes even more challenging to follow along.Stock prices rallied at the end of April after the Commerce...

Wednesday, May 3, 2023

I wanted to take a moment to update you on the potential changes to Social Security benefits for 2024. As I'm sure you know, the Social Security Administration calculates annual cost-of-living adjustments (COLA) based on the Consumer...

Monday, May 1, 2023

You may have already filed your taxes, but that doesn't mean you're done!Once you've filed, the hardest part is behind you. But, proper storage and proper discarding of pertinent papers are an essential part of your tax filing. Tax...

Saturday, April 29, 2023

Planning is critical regarding long-term needs, but many people are unsure what insurance covers, and others are often misinformed about Medicare coverage. Additionally, there are differences between Medicare and Medicaid regarding...

Thursday, April 27, 2023

Are you saving for the future?People often come to me asking for financial guidance. Some want to know how to invest or diversify the money they’ve saved, but others admit to me they’re just not sure how to save. If...

Wednesday, April 26, 2023

From my perspective, we can't hear the word "better" enough in the weeks ahead."Better than expected." "Better than feared." "Better than forecasted."These are winning phrases that can be used by market pundits when they compare a...

Tuesday, April 25, 2023

Stocks remained resilient last week amid mixed earnings reports, hawkish Fed-speak, and lingering recession fears, closing out the five trading days with small losses.The Dow Jones Industrial Average slipped 0.23%, while the Standard &...

Monday, April 24, 2023

What is financial fitness? We are all familiar with the term physical fitness, and if pressed for a definition, we might define it in terms of our strength and health level. When it comes to an explanation of financial fitness, the...

Saturday, April 22, 2023

Since 1970, the celebration of Earth Day on April 22 has raised awareness surrounding environmental protection. Each year, awareness grows, and more people think about how they might contribute to that effort.One way is to make the...

Friday, April 21, 2023

Birds singing, bees buzzing, and slightly longer days are all signs that winter has finally turned to spring. And with spring often comes the urge to deep clean your home, giving you the feeling of a fresh start. But spring cleaning...

Friday, April 21, 2023

A recent survey reported that 68% of parents had made financial sacrifices to support their adult children. It's often a difficult decision that can stress relationships, impact retirement strategies, and harm overall financial...

Wednesday, April 19, 2023

Over the next several weeks, we will hear from corporate leaders as they update investors on their first-quarter financials and provide a glimpse into the rest of the year.But this quarter, the actual financial results may be of only...

Tuesday, April 18, 2023

The combination of an improving inflation outlook resulted in a week of uneven, albeit positive, performance, in which cyclical and financial stocks rallied while technology, real estate, and utilities lagged. The Dow Jones...

Friday, April 14, 2023

If you're an investor looking for something to worry about, you never have to go more than a few days on Wall Street.As you can see from the accompanying chart, 11 economic reports are scheduled for release during 19 trading days in...

Thursday, April 13, 2023

Recently, you may have seen reports that the so-called “depletion date” for Social Security was adjusted. This refers to the predicted date when the long-running program will no longer be able to pay full benefits.Barring...

Wednesday, April 12, 2023

Just a quick reminder that the last day to make 2022 contributions to certain retirement accounts is fast approaching. In most cases, the contribution deadline is the same as your tax return filing deadline. For instance, you can make...

Tuesday, April 11, 2023

Market timing must be exhausting. Always moving in and out of the markets based on economic analysis or business headlines must be so challenging.The accompanying chart shows that money held in money market mutual funds rose to $5.1...

Thursday, March 23, 2023

Many investors may be tempted to react in the wake of both the Silicon Valley Bank and Signature Bank's financial troubles. After all, the unprecedented events of last week would test the mettle of even the most seasoned investor.The...

Wednesday, March 22, 2023

As the financial markets sort through the banking sector's issues, speculators have adjusted their outlook for interest rates for 2023 and beyond.In the first table, you can see that on March 3, speculators were expecting the Federal...

Tuesday, March 21, 2023

Amid the reverberations of two U.S. banks being taken over by regulators and the spread of uncertainty to European banks, stocks trended higher last week on the strength of the technology sector.The Dow Jones Industrial Average was...

Friday, March 17, 2023

The Cookie Monster in all of us will have to learn a little restraint this year. In what is becoming a familiar story, supply chain issues have hit yet another beloved American staple: Girl Scout Cookies.Specifically, some fan-favorite...

Thursday, March 16, 2023

When events like Silicon Valley Bank (SVB) and Signature Bank happen, it's natural to wonder how a bank safeguards your funds. Fortunately, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) insurance was designed for this very reason:...

Wednesday, March 15, 2023

For the Federal Reserve, credibility is everything. And its credibility is being tested by how it plans to manage the banking system in the days leading up to its March 21-22 meeting.Last month, Fed Chair Powell confidently told Wall...

Tuesday, March 14, 2023

Stocks tumbled last week as investors reconsidered their interest rate expectations after Fed Chair Powell’s Congressional testimony that rates may need to go higher. Stocks also were rattled when a west coast bank was placed...

Thursday, March 9, 2023

Jerome Powell would be terrible to have in your book club. He would always reveal how the book would end.When the Fed Chair spoke following the Fed meeting in February, he said, “we’re in the early stages of...

Tuesday, March 7, 2023

A late-week surge, triggered by reassuring Fed-speak, propelled stocks higher last week.The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 1.75%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 advanced 1.90%. The Nasdaq Composite index picked up 2.58% for...

Friday, March 3, 2023

March is Women's History Month, a time to recognize the remarkable contributions of women throughout history. This year's theme is "Celebrating Women Who Tell Our Stories," We're honored to share a few examples of women who continue to...

Thursday, March 2, 2023

One of my favorite Warren Buffett quotes is, “Remember that the stock market is a manic depressive.”What he’s suggesting is that stock prices can sometimes swing wildly from day to day in response to even minor news....

Saturday, February 25, 2023

Investors put the economy on recession watch when the Fed started its “higher in a hurry” push with short-term interest rates in mid-2022.After the 10-year/2-year Treasury curve inverted in July 2022, it was “all...

Thursday, February 23, 2023

The time following Valentine's Day has always served as a reminder that Spring is on the way. The days are getting longer, the birds and the bees are doing their thing, and people everywhere are thinking about future travel and...

Friday, February 10, 2023

The history of the United States is a tapestry embroidered with many cultures. One of the most vivid and complicated historical threads is those belonging to Black Americans. The accomplishments of many individuals, named and unnamed,...

Thursday, February 9, 2023

The stock market can provide some head-scratching moments, which is why I like Warren Buffet’s quote, “...don’t watch the market closely.”Stocks have been strong this year, and they rallied sharply before...

Saturday, February 4, 2023

As the biggest sporting event of the year approaches, football fans all over the nation (including us) are gearing up for the Big Game on Sunday, February 12, at 6:30 PM ET.For many, Sunday means a day of tasty tailgating and...

Friday, February 3, 2023

The initial read on Q4 Gross Domestic Product (GDP) gets released on January 26, and private economists and Federal Reserve estimates have very different economic outlooks.In the accompanying, you can see that the Atlanta Fed’s...

Thursday, February 2, 2023

"Is the bear market over?"That's a question I've been asked a number of times in recent weeks. And my answer is the same, "Let's give it a little time."But people are quick to remind me that stocks are off to a good start in 2023,...

Wednesday, February 1, 2023

January 30 to February 3, 2023, is Identity Theft Awareness Week. Anytime is a good time to tighten up your identity security, but if you haven’t been as careful as you intended, consider this your annual reminder. Here are a few...

Tuesday, January 31, 2023

Stocks added to their early 2023 gains amid a busy stream of mixed corporate earnings results and conflicting economic data.The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 1.81%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 added 2.47%. The Nasdaq...

Tuesday, January 24, 2023

National Financial Wellness Month comes each January. It's a time to remind people to either establish a financial strategy or take some time to sit down and review it with their trusted financial professional.For me, it's time for me...

Saturday, January 21, 2023

The December inflation report had some encouraging news. It showed that consumer prices trended lower for the month, but more importantly, it confirmed that overall prices have been trending lower for the past six months.Now the ball...

Thursday, January 19, 2023

Stocks rallied last week thanks to fresh confirmation of inflation’s cooling trend and growing optimism that an inflation slowdown may provide the Fed with space to ease up on future rate hikes.The Dow Jones Industrial Average...

Thursday, January 19, 2023

It’s easy to get excited reading the news. With all of the storm and stress of the last few years, it’s only natural to react to each ping of our phone’s news apps with a deep sigh and a cynical “what...

Tuesday, January 17, 2023

Have you been let go at work? What happens to the money you have saved in your employee retirement plan?If you have been terminated by your employer, you have 4 choices when it comes to your retirement plan money:Cash it out (and lose...

Saturday, January 14, 2023

You may have heard the saying, “inflation hurts savers and benefits borrowers.” The expression suggests that borrowers benefit from inflation because they pay back lenders with dollars worth less than when the money...

Wednesday, January 11, 2023

In the final days of 2022, Congress passed a new set of retirement rules designed to make it easier to contribute to retirement plans and access those funds earmarked for retirement.The law is called SECURE 2.0, and it's a follow-up to...

Tuesday, January 10, 2023

A strong Friday rally triggered by fresh signs of moderating inflation pushed stocks into positive territory to begin the new year. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 1.46%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 advanced 1.45%....

Wednesday, January 4, 2023

Congress spent the final days of 2022 on new reforms designed to help Americans save more for retirement.You may hear the changes called SECURE Act 2.0, which is a follow-up to the Setting Every Community Up for Retirement Enhancement...

Wednesday, January 4, 2023

In a holiday-shortened week, erratic trading left stocks marginally down for the week.The Dow Jones Industrial Average lost 0.17%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 slipped 0.14%. The Nasdaq Composite index fell 0.30%. The MSCI...

Thursday, December 29, 2022

A new year is on the horizon. Each day that comes presents something new and exciting both for you and the people in your life.Is this the year you open the door to something new and exciting? Embark on some new travel adventure? Or...

Tuesday, December 27, 2022

While you probably already found your notice in the mail, you may be curious about the COLA increase happening for Social Security recipients in the New Year. Starting in January, beneficiaries will see an 8.7% increase to help offset...

Saturday, December 24, 2022

What does the bond market know that the Fed isn’t telling us?Fed officials recently have said that short-term rates will need to climb to over 5 percent to bring inflation under control. But in the table below, you can see that...

Thursday, December 22, 2022

Hawkish comments by the Fed and weak economic data heightened investors’ recession concerns and sent stocks lower last week.The Dow Jones Industrial Average lost 1.66%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 retreated 2.08%. The...

Thursday, December 22, 2022

Just wanted to take a moment to wish you a safe, happy, and beautiful Holiday season. May your celebrations include those you love, good times, and great memories.

Monday, December 19, 2022

Over the past couple of years, the "Great Resignation" has led many Americans to leave their jobs for other opportunities, while others have chosen a different path: early retirement. We can all understand looking for a more suitable...

Friday, December 16, 2022

Knowing when it’s the right time to retire can be difficult, especially if you love your job. Even professional athletes have a hard time knowing when to walk away!These athletes thought they were ready for retirement but...

Thursday, December 15, 2022

The economic impact of COVID-19 has been felt from coast to coast. And, unfortunately for many pre-retirees, it could potentially impact Social Security benefits as well.A new report indicates that if Congress doesn’t take action...

Wednesday, December 14, 2022

The financial markets are complex systems. They can move from one event to the next so quickly that it's hard to know what’s driving prices.For example, look at the roundtrip oil prices in the chart below.Oil prices surged to...

Tuesday, December 13, 2022

Recession fears and concerns that the Fed may consider a longer rate-hike cycle sent stocks lower for the week.The Dow Jones Industrial Average dropped 2.77%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 fell 3.37%. The Nasdaq Composite index...

Friday, December 9, 2022

The holiday season is upon us; from story time with sorely missed grandchildren to laughter with friends and family over long-cherished memories, there's little doubt that "the most wonderful time of the year" has arrived.For my family...

Thursday, December 8, 2022

It appears that America’s corporate leaders are preparing for the worst while hoping for the best.Almost half of S&P 500 CEOs in second-quarter conference calls pointed to “recession” as a potential headwind in 2023....

Wednesday, December 7, 2022

Over the years, the Fed has followed a similar pattern with interest rates. It raises interest rates, then pauses, so it can see how the economy is adjusting to the higher rates. The chart below shows the Fed’s pattern with...

Tuesday, December 6, 2022

Stocks ended higher last week as investors navigated the crosscurrents of a potential easing in future rate hikes and continued strength in the labor market.The Dow Jones Industrial Average edged 0.24% higher, while the Standard &...

Monday, November 28, 2022

Growing optimism that the Fed may be ready to ease future interest rate hikes sent stocks higher in a quiet trading week.The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 1.78%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 added 1.53%. The Nasdaq...

Wednesday, November 23, 2022

The warmth of the holiday meal beckons. Thanksgiving is a time for gathering with loved ones and observing gratitude.So, as you gather around the table, look around and give thanks for the family and friends surrounding you. Give...

Tuesday, November 22, 2022

The stock market edged lower last week as it digested a crosscurrent of conflicting economic data and contrasting comments from Fed officials.The Dow Jones Industrial Average was flat (-0.01%), while the Standard & Poor’s 500...

Sunday, November 20, 2022

Have you saved enough? Whether you started late, or have regularly saved throughout your career, you might wish you could stash some additional cash in your retirement fund. Fortunately, if you’re 50 or older, you can. The IRS...

Saturday, November 19, 2022

How long has it been since you’ve reviewed your Medicare policy? There are a few questions you may want to ask yourself before you renew, add, drop, or switch coverage.Have you switched doctors, or is your doctor no longer...

Thursday, November 17, 2022

October's Consumer Price Index (CPI) had some encouraging news for investors, but others asked, "Is this a game changer or another head fake?"While it's a bit early to know the answer, it was great to see that inflation rose at a...

Wednesday, November 16, 2022

A cooling inflation number ignited a powerful rally on Thursday, sending stocks to strong gains for the week.The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 4.15%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 added 5.90%. The Nasdaq Composite index...

Friday, November 11, 2022

On November 11, we honor the bravery and sacrifice of the men and women who have served America in the armed forces. This federal holiday – Veterans Day – is a time to reflect on their courage.Please take a moment this...

Thursday, November 10, 2022

The midterm elections have come and gone, and although the results don’t appear as one-sided as many predicted, it seems one party will narrowly take control of the House, while the Senate may hinge on a Georgia runoff.It's...

Wednesday, November 9, 2022

The financial markets are on edge this year each time Fed Chair Jerome Powell takes the podium following a Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) meeting.The chart below shows that the Standard & Poor’s 500 stock index has gained...

Tuesday, November 8, 2022

Hawkish comments by Fed Chair Jerome Powell, following the announcement of another 75 basis points interest rate hike last week, cast a pall over financial markets, sending yields higher and stocks lower.The Dow Jones Industrial...

Saturday, November 5, 2022

As you have noticed, the days are getting shorter – and we are coming to the end of Daylight Saving Time for the year. On the first Sunday of November at 2:00 am, most of America will “fall back” into Standard Time.Be...

Saturday, November 5, 2022

You may have heard the phrase “contrarian investing,” but did you know that one of the most reliable contrary indicators is individual investors?Retail investors often do the wrong thing at the wrong time. But this year,...

Friday, November 4, 2022

The midterm elections are underway. In many states, ballots have been delivered and, in several cases, already returned by Americans exercising one of the most sacred of their Constitutional rights.Election Day is always the Tuesday...

Friday, November 4, 2022

I’ve always been a little cautious when people say, “it’s different this time.” But the table below suggests the Fed is approaching 2022’s inflation differently than other financial events in recent...

Thursday, November 3, 2022

The Internal Revenue Service has released new limits for the coming year. After months of high inflation and financial uncertainty, some of these cost-of-living-based adjustments have reached near-record levels.Individual Retirement...

Wednesday, November 2, 2022

Stocks overcame poor earnings results from some of America’s largest companies to post gains last week as investors cheered positive earnings surprises, easing inflation and a rebound in economic growth.The Dow Jones Industrial...

Wednesday, October 19, 2022

Stubborn doesn’t seem like a strong enough word, but that’s how Fed officials are describing inflation.Inflation's “stubbornness” has been on full display in recent weeks: First, the Producer Price Index (PPI)...

Tuesday, October 18, 2022

Stocks were mixed last week amid wide intra- and inter-day price swings, as technology shares bore the brunt of the downdraft.The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 1.15% for the week. Meanwhile, the Standard & Poor’s 500...

Friday, October 14, 2022

Lately, "inflation" seems to be the media's favorite word. Everywhere you turn, there's another story about the impact of inflation. For example, many news outlets have reported that confectionary prices have surged over 30% from last...

Thursday, October 13, 2022

How well do you remember 1981? Harrison Ford had his first bow as Indiana Jones in Raiders of the Lost Ark. Frogger and Donkey Kong were all the rage at video arcades. Bob Ross left the Air Force and took up painting. On top of that,...

Wednesday, October 12, 2022

We measure the jobs market in many ways, but the Job Opening and Labor Turnover Survey or JOLTS report seems to be of particular interest to Fed Chair Jerome Powell.The JOLTS report tells the Fed how many job openings there are each...

Tuesday, October 11, 2022

A powerful two-day stock rebound cemented a positive week for investors as a new trading month began.The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 1.99%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 added 1.51%. The Nasdaq Composite index increased 0...

Wednesday, October 5, 2022

Traditionally, I’ve been a little cautious when people say, “it’s different this time.” After all, the past few years have seen more financial “firsts” than most.But despite that skepticism, this...

Tuesday, October 4, 2022

Rising recession fears and uncertainty in the bond and currency markets sent stocks to new 2022 lows last week.The Dow Jones Industrial Average declined 2.92%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 slumped 2.91%. The Nasdaq Composite...

Saturday, October 1, 2022

If you’ve felt like stock prices were a little more volatile in 2022 than in recent years, your “spidey senses” are right on the money.The S&P 500 has posted 81 daily moves of at least 1% through August. Of those...

Friday, September 30, 2022

September is Life Insurance Awareness Month. If you haven’t reviewed your insurance profile in a while, you may be surprised that what made sense in the past no longer fits your life.Here are some ways to quickly evaluate your...

Thursday, September 29, 2022

Wall Street is always searching for a hero to embrace or a villain to blame. And right now, Fed Chair Jerome Powell is the villain.After the September Fed meeting, Powell said interest rates may be heading higher for longer than...

Wednesday, September 28, 2022

Last week, Fed Chair Powell said the U.S. would not tame inflation without economic pain. This week heightened recession fears and sent stocks broadly lower.The Dow Jones Industrial Average dropped 4.00%, while the Standard &...

Tuesday, September 27, 2022

The hurricane season is descending upon us in dramatic fashion this week.Hurricane Ian is a significant event that will bring massive winds and dangerous storm surges to Florida and the neighboring Gulf states. Whether you’re in...

Saturday, September 10, 2022

Traditional Individual Retirement Accounts (IRA), which were created in 1974, are owned by roughly 36.6 million U.S. households. And Roth IRAs, created as part of the Taxpayer Relief Act in 1997, are owned by nearly 27.3 million...

Thursday, September 8, 2022

Have you saved enough? Whether you started late, or have regularly saved throughout your career, you might wish you could stash some additional cash in your retirement fund. Fortunately, if you’re 50 or older, you can. The IRS...

Wednesday, September 7, 2022

The White House recently forgave up to $10,000 to student loan borrowers as part of a larger debt forgiveness program. There are still quite a few questions to be answered, but here are some key points to know.Pell vs. non-Pell: Loan...

Tuesday, September 6, 2022

The overhang of Fed Chair Powell’s Jackson Hole speech the previous week carried over into last week as investors recalibrated stock valuations amid a seemingly more assertive monetary policy stance.The Dow Jones Industrial...

Friday, September 2, 2022

We’re entering a tricky time of year: September and October have a reputation for bringing an extra measure of market volatility.Some of the stock market’s most challenging events have hit in September and October, and...

Thursday, September 1, 2022

Schools across the nation are getting back to business. For students, it’s a return to education after vacations, summer jobs, and other activities.For parents, grandparents, and guardians, “back to school” often...

Wednesday, August 31, 2022

A comprehensive sell-off on Friday following comments by Fed Chair Jerome Powell drove stocks to losses for the week.The Dow Jones Industrial Average tumbled 4.22%, while the Standard & Poor's 500 dropped 4.04%. The Nasdaq Composite...

Thursday, August 25, 2022

I’m hearing a lot of mixed messages these days about the economy. Some headlines say we’re already in a recession; some say one is looming. Others hint that we’ll avoid a recession and have a soft landing. It makes...

Tuesday, August 23, 2022

Stocks tumbled on Friday, sending stocks to a weekly loss after an otherwise quiet August week of trading.The Dow Jones Industrial Average slipped -0.16%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 lost 1.21%. The Nasdaq Composite index...

Saturday, August 20, 2022

As a parent, you of course want to give your child the best opportunity for success, and for many, attending the “right” university or college is that opportunity. Unfortunately, being accepted to the college of one’s...

Friday, August 19, 2022

Have you heard? The Inflation Reduction Act was signed into law on Tuesday, August 16. While the $430 billion package includes many provisions, I thought I’d highlight three key areas where you may benefit the most.Tax credits...

Thursday, August 18, 2022

Have you ever heard the expression, "What's the smart money doing?""Smart money" is an expression that often refers to experts and suggests that well-informed people have a better perspective on current events and what actions to take....

Wednesday, August 17, 2022

These days, an encouraging word can feel like a relief. Here are a few positive stories I’ve noticed lately – like an “everything bagel” sprinkled with good news.I saw a recent report in The Guardian about the...

Tuesday, August 16, 2022

An improving inflation outlook buoyed investors’ spirits last week, helping lift stocks to solid gains.The Dow Jones Industrial Average advanced 2.92%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 rose 3.26%. The Nasdaq Composite index...

Friday, August 12, 2022

Does waiting 30 days for a government report seem a bit unreasonable? After all, we live in a world of instant messages and real-time quotes. Why should we wait a whole month between updates on the Consumer Price Index to see what's...

Thursday, August 11, 2022

Stocks turned in a mixed performance last week as investors struggled with headlines suggesting that the Fed was unlikely to soon ease up on its current monetary tightening policy.The Dow Jones Industrial Average slipped 0.13%, while...

Friday, August 5, 2022

"Where there's a will, there's a way." Sage advice that applies not only to our lives but to your estate strategy.When was the last time you reviewed your will or estate strategy? August is National "Make a Will" Month, an excellent...

Thursday, August 4, 2022

In the financial world, some weeks are more important than others, and we just lived through a big one. Let's unpack each of the four key stats:The Fed. As expected, the Fed bumped up short-term rates again at its July meeting. But the...

Wednesday, August 3, 2022

What would you do with a windfall? It’s a question I’ve read or heard a lot lately. Considering the Mega Millions jackpot has now grown to $1.02 billion, it’s safe to say most of us have thought about what it would be...

Tuesday, August 2, 2022

Undaunted by another Fed rate hike and news of a contracting economy, the stock market rallied last week on better-than-expected corporate earnings.The Dow Jones Industrial Average increased 2.97%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500...

Wednesday, July 27, 2022

Sometimes, it’s a good idea to get a second opinion.And this may be one of those times.Government reports are telling a rather bleak story about the economy. The headlines talk about high inflation, rising interest rates, and a...

Tuesday, July 26, 2022

Stocks rallied last week as investor spirits lifted thanks to a better-than-expected start to the second-quarter earnings season.The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 1.95%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 added 2.55%. The...

Friday, July 22, 2022

Stop me if you heard this already—roughly half the population wasn’t alive last time inflation was at this level.It’s true. According to IMDb.com, Raiders of the Lost Ark was the #1 movie at the box office the last...

Thursday, July 21, 2022

A record-high inflation report, the prospects of a more aggressive Fed, and growing recession fears sent stocks lower– though losses were pared by a Friday rally.The Dow Jones Industrial Average slipped 0.16%, while the Standard...

Sunday, July 17, 2022

Preparing for retirement can look a little different for women than it does for men. Although stereotypes are changing, women are still more likely to serve as caretakers than men are, meaning they may accumulate less income and...

Friday, July 15, 2022

Summer travel is picking up this year. If you’re headed to Europe, you may notice that you get more bang for your buck.Why is that?For the first time in almost 20 years, the U.S. dollar and the euro have reached parity. Souvenirs...

Wednesday, July 13, 2022

If you’re trying to get an inside edge on Wall Street, you’re probably paying attention to an array of stats and measurements. But there’s one indicator you might be overlooking.I’m talking about the...

Tuesday, July 12, 2022

In a holiday-shortened trading week, stocks rallied despite mixed economic data and vacillating energy prices and bond yields.The Dow Jones Industrial Average increased 0.77%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 rose 1.94%. The...

Thursday, July 7, 2022

With half the year behind us, now is a great time to consider what the remainder of 2022 may hold. However, with inflation and economic uncertainty causing many of us to delay or cancel vacations, large purchases, and more, it can be...

Wednesday, July 6, 2022

Financial success is a goal for many, but women face unique barriers that can make that goal more difficult to achieve. Understanding today's financial landscape can help women rise to the challenge, know their worth, and take control...

Tuesday, July 5, 2022

The SECURE Act of 2019 represented the biggest update to retirement law in over a decade. Now, Congress is deliberating on what “SECURE 2.0” legislation might entail.In March, the House passed the Securing a Strong...

Friday, July 1, 2022

The Fourth of July is just ahead – a chance for us all to get together and celebrate what makes America so special. As Americans, we have the liberty to act, speak, think, and worship freely. This precious liberty was fought for,...

Thursday, June 30, 2022

It’s natural to think “defense” during a bearish market season. But why not mix in some “offense” with your defense? Here are three moves we can discuss together that may be helpful during the current...

Wednesday, June 29, 2022

In case you didn’t know, June is National Internet Safety Month. With nearly 4 billion people on social media worldwide, plus the risks of using online brokerage and bank accounts, the need for digital security has never been...

Tuesday, June 28, 2022

Prospects of cooling inflation powered a rally in stock prices last week despite growing recession concerns.The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 5.39%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 climbed 6.45%. The Nasdaq Composite index...

Sunday, June 26, 2022

During periods of market turbulence, I take comfort in one of my favorite Warren Buffett quotes:“Don’t watch the market closely.”The Oracle of Omaha gave this sage advice in 2016, when Brexit, China’s economic...

Saturday, June 25, 2022

In case you didn’t know, June is National Internet Safety Month. With nearly 4 billion people on social media worldwide, plus the risks of using online brokerage and bank accounts, the need for digital security has never been...

Friday, June 24, 2022

Summer’s here, and the time is right for vacations, outdoor activities, and fun. It’s also a good time to consider a few financial matters. Here are some questions to ask yourself mid-year.Goals still the same for 2022? Has...

Thursday, June 23, 2022

At the risk of slowing economic growth, the Fed has driven short-term rates higher to rein in inflation. But it’s a tricky proposition.Raise rates too much, and you may trigger a recession. Don’t raise rates enough, and you...

Wednesday, June 22, 2022

What an “interesting” week. In a move unseen since 1994, the Federal Reserve has taken an aggressive stance toward inflation by raising the key interest rate by three-quarters of a percentage point.Investors initially...

Saturday, June 11, 2022

Some gloomy headlines are coming out of Wall Street lately. Have you noticed?In recent days, I’ve read things like “Brace yourself for economic hurricanes” and “Wall Street investor survey paints a dire outlook...

Thursday, June 9, 2022

As you might have heard, people are talking about a big bump in Social Security benefits next year.The Senior Citizens League says payments could rise by as much as 8.6 percent in 2023, compared to an increase of 5.9 percent in 2022....

Friday, May 27, 2022

Memorial Day is so much more than a long weekend. It is a chance for us to remember those who gave all for this great nation and the freedoms it offers.This Memorial Day, we pay tribute to the lives and legacies of those who...

Thursday, May 26, 2022

Rare collectibles can provide an entertaining form of alternative “investment,” and might seem particularly intriguing when markets are wobblier than Aunt Gertrude’s jello salad. Comic books can sell for millions of...

Wednesday, May 25, 2022

When markets cycle lower like they have been lately, perspective is critical. If you’re not connected to someone with experience, it can be easy to miss the big picture.If you zoom out a bit in history, most investors haven't...

Tuesday, May 24, 2022

The number one question I’m hearing this week is, “When are we going to see the stock market reach a low point?” In spite of recent volatility, my answer remains the same: rather than timing the markets, focus on time...

Monday, May 16, 2022

Tuesday, May 10, 2022

Monday, May 9, 2022

Sunday, May 8, 2022

Saturday, May 7, 2022

Thursday, May 5, 2022

Thursday, April 28, 2022

Wednesday, April 27, 2022

Thursday, April 21, 2022

Wednesday, April 20, 2022

Friday, April 15, 2022

Thursday, April 14, 2022

Wednesday, April 13, 2022

Wednesday, April 6, 2022

Tuesday, April 5, 2022

Sunday, April 3, 2022

Saturday, April 2, 2022

Friday, April 1, 2022

Tuesday, March 29, 2022

Monday, March 28, 2022

Saturday, March 26, 2022

Friday, March 25, 2022

Friday, March 11, 2022

Thursday, March 10, 2022

Saturday, February 26, 2022

Friday, February 25, 2022

Thursday, February 24, 2022

Tuesday, February 22, 2022

Friday, January 14, 2022

Have you ever had one of those months? The water heater stops heating, the dishwasher stops washing, and your family ends up on a first-name basis with the nurse at urgent care. Then, as you’re driving to work, you see smoke...

Thursday, January 13, 2022

Wednesday, January 12, 2022

Tuesday, January 11, 2022

Wednesday, January 5, 2022

Tuesday, December 28, 2021

Thursday, December 23, 2021

Wednesday, December 22, 2021

Tuesday, December 21, 2021

Friday, December 17, 2021

Thursday, December 16, 2021

Wednesday, December 15, 2021

Tuesday, December 14, 2021

Friday, November 26, 2021

The holiday season is often a quiet, positive time for the financial markets. The phrase “Santa Claus Rally” was coined in the early 1970s to reflect the stock market’s upward bias during the November-January stretch...

Monday, November 22, 2021

You see it in prices at the grocery store and the gas station. You feel it in your monthly budget. So why don’t the financial markets seem too concerned about inflation?Remember, financial markets are considered...

Sunday, November 21, 2021

Thanksgiving will be here soon. The holiday always gives us a chance to appreciate what we have – friendships, relationships, and a sense of togetherness. These gifts are priceless. This holiday is also an appropriate time for...

Friday, November 19, 2021

At the White House on Monday, President Biden signed a $1T bipartisan infrastructure bill set to enable enhancements for transportation and utilities over the next five years.1Over those five years, $550 billion will be invested into...

Friday, November 12, 2021

Preparing for retirement just got a little more financial wiggle room. This week, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) announced new contribution limits for 2022.Staying put for 2022 are traditional Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs)...

Thursday, November 11, 2021

Financial markets can be challenging to understand. But when markets enter a “bad news is good news” cycle, it becomes even more difficult to follow along.At its November meeting, the Fed outlined its plan to taper monthly...

Wednesday, November 10, 2021

On November 11, we honor the bravery and sacrifice of those who have served America in the armed forces. It is also a time to appreciate the commitment of our active military personnel and their dedicated families.Let us honor their...

Tuesday, November 9, 2021

CNBC’s Mad Money host Jim Cramer created the popular FAANG acronym to denote some of the largest, most powerful companies in the world: Facebook, Amazon, Apple, Netflix, and Google. Recently, changes in those companies are...

Monday, November 8, 2021

A Federal Reserve announcement on tapering, a fresh batch of corporate profits, and encouraging economic data lifted stocks to another weekly gain.The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 1.42%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500...

Saturday, November 6, 2021

While it’s still too early to draw any final conclusions, Congress is getting closer to outlining what tax law changes are under consideration to pay for the proposed $1.75 trillion Build Back Better Plan.1For now, it appears...

Friday, November 5, 2021

To help raise revenue to pay for President Biden’s Build Back Better Plan, Congress is considering a number of tax law changes, including adjusting estate taxes.One of the proposals would reduce the estate tax exemption to...

Thursday, November 4, 2021

There are a lot of questions about President Biden’s Build Back Better plan and potential tax law changes, including an adjustment to capital gains taxes.One of the proposals Congress is considering sets the top rate for taxing...

Wednesday, November 3, 2021

While the world has begun to recover from the economic disruption of the COVID-19 pandemic, the delayed reaction has been felt in the supply chain. Industrial shutdowns around the world slowed production to a relative crawl, leaving...

Tuesday, November 2, 2021

A fresh wave of positive corporate earnings surprises sent markets to new record highs last week.The Dow Jones Industrial Average increased 0.40%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 rose 1.33%. The Nasdaq Composite index picked...

Tuesday, November 2, 2021

Financial markets tend to function best when they have clear, strong leadership. When there’s concern about who’s the boss, markets can struggle.Jerome Powell’s first term as Fed Chair ends in February 2022. Until...

Tuesday, October 12, 2021

The overhang of bumping against the federal debt ceiling was lifted last week with an agreement to extend the debt ceiling through early December, helping propel stocks to a weekly gain.The Dow Jones Industrial Average increased by 1...

Monday, October 11, 2021

Medicare’s annual open enrollment period begins October 15 and ends December 7. During this time, current Medicare beneficiaries have the option to adjust their coverage for the coming year. Any changes to your plan will go into...

Friday, October 8, 2021

Debates over government debt, taxes, and infrastructure have captured the attention of the nation this week. All eyes are on Washington and Wall Street as these events play out, with potentially far-reaching consequences that seem to...

Thursday, October 7, 2021

How long has it been since you’ve reviewed your Medicare policy? With open enrollment fast approaching, there are a few questions you may want to ask yourself before you renew, add, drop, or switch coverage.Have you switched...

Wednesday, September 29, 2021

A funny thing happened in the investment markets the other day. September was living up to its reputation as a volatile month, but then the Federal Reserve came to the rescue.The Fed concluded its Federal Open Market Committee meeting...

Tuesday, September 28, 2021

There’s a famous saying about a hurricane starting from a butterfly flapping its wings on the other side of the world. That “butterfly effect” is certainly happening in terms of the Chinese property market’s...

Friday, September 24, 2021

How much do you know about one of the most important tools you have to help protect you and your family’s financial future? Do you want to find out? Click HERE to take a short quiz and test your life insurance knowledge today!

Thursday, September 23, 2021

Most likely, you’ve heard what’s brewing in Washington, D.C., called by one of these names.The Build Back Better Act. Or the $3.5 trillion budget reconciliation bill. Or the Jobs and Economic Recovery Plan for Working...

Wednesday, September 22, 2021

Healthcare can be one of the priciest yet essential parts of life’s journey. And yet, many struggle to utilize the financial tools that may help. Take Health Saving Accounts (HSAs), for example.In 2019, 55% of those with HSAs...

Wednesday, September 15, 2021

If you are feeling a bit confused about the direction of inflation, you’re in good company. Some of the best and brightest economists in the country are having a tough time getting their arms around the current inflation trends...

Tuesday, September 14, 2021

In a quiet week of news, stocks moved lower amid simmering concerns over the Delta variant’s effect on the progress of economic reopening.The Dow Jones Industrial Average declined 2.15%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500...

Sunday, September 12, 2021

It can be incredibly difficult to make sense of data. A report coming from one body may tell you one thing, and another report might seem to offer a wholly different perspective.Such is the case with August’s jobs numbers from...

Friday, September 10, 2021

The stock market notched its 7th straight month of gains in August, and the Standard & Poor's 500 index has set 53 new highs so far in 2021.1During August, stocks rallied as investors looked past the increased number of COVID-19...

Monday, September 6, 2021

The first Labor Day was celebrated over 100 years ago, created by the labor movement as a day to honor the achievements and contributions (both social and economic) of American workers.I’ve always found the way we celebrate to...

Saturday, September 4, 2021

It’s time for your life insurance checkup.September is National Life Insurance Awareness Month, so it’s a great time to review your coverage.1If you don’t have any life insurance, you’re not alone. Life...

Friday, September 3, 2021

The economic impact of COVID-19 has been felt from coast to coast. And, unfortunately for many pre-retirees, it could potentially impact Social Security benefits as well.A new report indicates that if Congress doesn’t take...

Thursday, September 2, 2021

The most recent stats on corporate dividends suggest that global companies are bullish on the world’s economic recovery.Dividends paid to investors are on track to hit $1.4 trillion this year and are expected to stretch even...

Wednesday, September 1, 2021

Your workplace retirement account can play a critical role in your overall retirement strategy. However, some have gone further with the accounts than others, especially recently.CNBC reported on findings that place 401(k) accounts at...

Friday, August 27, 2021

If you have a secret, don’t tell anyone at the Federal Reserve Bank. They may leak the story before you’d like.In early August, multiple regional Federal Reserve Bank presidents hit the speaking tour. They made headlines...

Thursday, August 26, 2021

Over the last year, many have seen their lives impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The ways in which we work, live, and communicate have drastically changed, to say the least.It’s difficult to predict what other aspects of life...

Wednesday, August 25, 2021

Are you having a tough time keeping track of inflation's mixed signals? You’re not alone.Consumer prices in July climbed at their fastest rate since August 2008. Worse, producer prices, which can be an indicator of future price...

Tuesday, August 24, 2021

The airline industry plotted a course for recovery in 2021, but recent difficulties may have put that plan into a holding pattern.While major airlines checked in with improving financial results for the second quarter, both they and...

Wednesday, August 11, 2021

Have you ever heard the Wall Street expression, "markets climb a wall of worry?"It's the idea that financial markets are constantly on edge. Traders fret about how long a market rally can continue before it runs into trouble. Worry...

Tuesday, August 10, 2021

Overcoming jitters about the Delta variant and the reintroduction of mask requirements, stocks climbed higher on strong employment data and a fresh batch of strong corporate earnings.The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 0.78% while...

Thursday, August 5, 2021

The 2020 Tokyo Olympics wrap up with closing ceremonies on August 8, and it’s been an Olympic games like no other. We’ve watched the world’s finest athletes go for the gold. Which leads many to wonder: what exactly...

Wednesday, August 4, 2021

With overseas investments, we remind people that, “international markets carry additional risks, which include differences in financial reporting standards, currency exchange rates, political risk, foreign taxes and regulations...

Thursday, July 29, 2021

Summer jobs are a perennial aspect of the American workforce. It’s a time when teenagers are filling out applications and, in many cases, earning wages of their own for the first time. But some of what we’ve become...

Wednesday, July 28, 2021

Corporate earnings season has begun, and the results are turning heads on Wall Street.Of the 120 companies in the S&P 500 index that reported numbers as of Friday, July 23, 89% of them beat the Street’s earnings-per-share...

Tuesday, July 27, 2021

Overcoming a COVID-related economic growth scare, stocks moved higher amid a week of strong corporate earnings reports.The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 1.08%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 gained 1.96%. The Nasdaq...

Thursday, July 22, 2021

It’s long been an aspirational target for entrepreneurs. It literally goes beyond “blue sky,” in terms of location, to a place no business has gone before: Outer Space!Longtime space enthusiast and entrepreneur...

Wednesday, July 21, 2021

The news keeps getting better for Social Security recipients.It's now projected that benefits will increase 6.1% in 2022, up from the 4.7% forecast just two months ago. That would be the most significant increase since 1983.1...

Wednesday, July 21, 2021

With all the attention given to inflation, stock prices, and job reports, it’s been easy to overlook the remarkable move in the bond market during the past few months.The yield on the 10-year treasury closed at 1.37% on Friday,...

Tuesday, July 20, 2021

On July 6, oil prices reached a six-year high of $76.98 a barrel. This benchmark came as the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and allies failed to reach an agreement regarding an increase in production.1This...

Thursday, July 8, 2021

With June officially behind us, it’s time to face the facts: we’re headed toward the second half of 2021. While there’s still plenty of time to enjoy the rest of summer, we encourage you to slow down and check up on...

Tuesday, July 6, 2021

Strong employment reports and rising consumer confidence sent the stock market broadly higher last week.The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 1.02%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 picked up 1.67%. The Nasdaq Composite index...

Monday, July 5, 2021

Summertime rouses our desire to hit the road (or the airport) and travel. Here are a few things you’ll want to consider before you take off.Employment Issues for Airlines: Airlines have canceled hundreds of flights due to...

Friday, July 2, 2021

The Fourth of July is just ahead – a chance for us all to get together and celebrate what makes America so special. As Americans, we have the liberty to act, speak, think, and worship freely. This precious liberty was fought for...

Thursday, July 1, 2021

Inflation is defined as the general upward price movement of goods and services in an economy. The key word is “general.” Inflation tends to be uneven and affects the price of some items more than others.If you’ve...

Tuesday, June 29, 2021

Recently, you may have seen a number of major cryptocurrencies fall thanks to a continuing sell-off that began last week. In fact, over $250 billion was lost in the crypto market alone.1It may be tempting to view this as another...

Thursday, June 24, 2021

At its June meeting, the Federal Reserve confirmed what many of us have suspected for some time: prices are rising. In fact, prices are climbing faster than many expected. In response, the Fed raised its inflation expectation to 3.4%,...

Tuesday, June 22, 2021

One of the most anticipated comebacks of 2021 isn’t an athlete, rock star, or movie franchise. It’s summer travel, and it appears to be back with a vengeance.Travel agents are working 14-hour days to meet the needs of...

Thursday, June 17, 2021

The real rate of return is an important personal finance concept to understand.It’s the rate of return on your investments after inflation. The real rate of return indicates whether you are gaining or losing purchasing power...

Tuesday, June 15, 2021

Recently, you may have seen headlines regarding the Securing a Strong Retirement Act, also referred to as the second version of the SECURE Act, or SECURE Act 2.0.As the bill moves from the House of Representatives to the Senate, many...

Friday, June 11, 2021

If there is a "silver lining" to all the inflation talk, it may be that Social Security benefits are expected to see a larger-than-normal increase in 2022.Preliminary estimates call for a 4.7% cost-of-living increase (COLA) in Social...

Wednesday, June 9, 2021

With COVID, there were some who believed that progress on this health issue was a necessary precondition to economic recovery.In recent weeks, we have seen some promising trends emerge on the health front. The CDC is reporting the...

Tuesday, June 8, 2021

Over Memorial Day weekend, gasoline prices hit the highest for this holiday weekend since 2014.1With the Colonial Pipeline outage in the rear-view mirror and an ever-increasing number of adults vaccinated, formerly cooped-up motorists...

Tuesday, June 1, 2021

Optimism over the economic reopening and renewed enthusiasm for technology and other high-growth companies powered the stock market higher last week.The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 0.94%, while the Standard & Poor’s...

Friday, May 28, 2021

As our nation continues to recover from the effects of COVID-19, one economic trend has been capturing news attention as of late. Consumer prices are rising amidst economic recovery. In fact, the Consumer Price Index (CPI) rose 0.8%...

Thursday, May 27, 2021

The talk is of tapering, and it’s making investors nervous.The Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) released the minutes of its April meeting last week. The report suggested that should the economy continue to make progress, it...

Friday, May 21, 2021

Inflation can be a scary word for people who are retired. It’s code for “prices are going up, but my income may stay the same.”The most recent reading on consumer prices put inflation back into the conversation. The...

Thursday, May 20, 2021

Since the 1980s, unemployment rates have trended higher amongst men than women during a recession. In previous periods of economic downturn, this made sense. Male-dominated industries, like construction and finance, were typically...

Sunday, May 16, 2021

The San Diego Padres signed infielder Fernando Tatis, Jr., to a 14-year, $340 million contract roughly one year after the Los Angeles Dodgers inked outfielder Mookie Betts to a 12-year, $365 million deal. That brings the total to 8...

Saturday, May 15, 2021

What does it mean when two of the most powerful voices in American financial life seem to be saying two different things? In one corner, we have the “Oracle of Omaha,” investor Warren Buffett. As one of the nation’s...

Friday, May 14, 2021

Will your retirement dreams match your reality?That's perhaps the most critical question to ask people who are currently retired. Was your retirement what you expected, or was it something else?For more than 30 years, the Employee...

Thursday, May 13, 2021

A cyberattack shut down a major gas and energy pipeline supplying the East Coast of the United States for several days. The actual pipelines themselves are still functional and have since started running again, but it’s led to...

Thursday, May 13, 2021

A recent survey shows that 63% of investors are more interested in protecting their financial assets and planning for uncertainty in the future than anything else.1There are many reasons for this change, but here are a few of the most...

Tuesday, May 4, 2021

Stocks meandered around a flatline in a busy week of corporate earnings, ending the trading week slightly lower.The Dow Jones Industrial Average slid 0.50%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 was flat (+0.02%). The Nasdaq...

Saturday, May 1, 2021

Did you know that May is Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month? This year, we invite you to join us in celebrating the often-overlooked contributions of Asian and Pacific Islander Americans to this great nation.Whether we...

Thursday, April 29, 2021

Non-fungible tokens, or NFTs, have been the recipient of the latest buzz. NFTs are digital files attached to blockchain codes. If you know anything about digital currencies, you’re probably aware that these blockchain codes are...

Tuesday, April 27, 2021

Now and again, the price action on Wall Street can surprise even the most seasoned investors.Look no further than when President Biden in late April proposed an increase in the tax on capital gains to 39.6% from 20% for those...

Saturday, April 24, 2021

Investors looking for "green shoots" to confirm that the economy is on the mend have seen plenty of examples in recent weeks. Retail sales rose 9.8% in March, the largest monthly gain since May 2020. It's important to remember that...

Thursday, April 22, 2021

Are your financial goals well-defined? While "I want to have lots of money" may sound like a great goal, it's just too vague. How much is "lots?" If you don’t know … how will you know when you have it? And will the...

Wednesday, April 21, 2021

Recently, you may have seen reports that a record-low number of homes are available for sale—roughly 1.03 million nationwide. If you compare that to the average number of homes for sale during the past 10 years, it's no surprise...

Friday, April 16, 2021

It can be exhausting trying to keep up with the whims of Wall Street.Lately, the financial markets have been fixated on federal taxes and what may be proposed on Capitol Hill in the weeks and months ahead.Wall Street’s focus on...

Thursday, April 15, 2021

If your finances are not where you would like them to be, what can you do about it? April is Financial Literacy Month. This is a great time to start picking up the pieces and learn how to rebuild with confidence. After all, a little...

Wednesday, April 14, 2021

In a speech to the Chicago Council on Global Affairs, U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen has called for a minimum corporate income tax that would be shared by countries all over the world.1The decrease of corporate tax rates around...

Thursday, April 8, 2021

Spend today, save tomorrow? Okay, we've all been there. But if it seems you're always living paycheck-to-paycheck and never able to save anything for the future, then it may be time to make a change . April is Financial Literacy Month...

Wednesday, April 7, 2021

President Joe Biden introduced the much-anticipated American Jobs Plan, which outlines an approach to spend roughly $2.2 trillion on the nation's infrastructure and other projects.As part of the legislative process, the Biden...

Tuesday, April 6, 2021

Overcoming a rocky start, stocks rallied into the close of a holiday-shortened week of trading as technology shares staged a powerful recovery and investors reacted positively to President Biden’s infrastructure spending...

Saturday, April 3, 2021

Inflation has emerged as one of the top financial concerns for investors as they size up the economy for the rest of the year.According to research by Deutsche Bank, Google searches for “inflation” are rising rapidly and...

Thursday, April 1, 2021

Previously, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) announced that the federal income tax filing due date for individuals for the 2020 tax year had been automatically extended from April 15, 2021, to May 17, 2021.1More time for allHowever,...

Thursday, April 1, 2021

So you've prepared for your goals and you believe you are on track for your financial goals. That's wonderful. What now?April is Financial Literacy Month. If you haven't put some thought into Asset Protection Strategy, now...

Tuesday, March 30, 2021

Among the many changes arising from the pandemic, one of the most noticeable was a change in American spending habits. A survey released in March 2021 by Pew Research shows that Americans have increasingly chosen to put away what...

Friday, March 26, 2021

For those with a Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account (FSA), there may be some good news on the horizon. The American Rescue Plan Act, signed into law by President Joe Biden, boosts the amount that companies can allow workers to...

Wednesday, March 24, 2021

Less than one month ahead of the traditional date, the I.R.S. has delayed the deadline for filing and paying taxes. The new deadline is May 17, 2021.1,2,3The delay follows continued disruption from the COVID-19 pandemic and a late...

Saturday, March 20, 2021

Spring is here! And soon the landscape will turn greener and the weather warmer. Perhaps you are already thinking about what you would like to do – the trips you could take, that new look for your yard or your garden, a day at...

Thursday, March 18, 2021

Want to ensure your favorite local spots are around after the pandemic? Click here to learn more on how to support your community.

Wednesday, March 17, 2021

Stocks touched new record highs last week as bond yields steadied, a fiscal relief bill was signed into law, and confidence in a strong economic recovery grew.The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 4.07%, while the Standard &...

Tuesday, March 16, 2021

The House of Representatives passed a $1.9 trillion relief package focused on economic relief following the COVID-19 pandemic. The bill was signed into law at the White House on Thursday.1Beyond the much-discussed $1,400 stimulus...

Wednesday, March 10, 2021

Do the days seem to be getting a bit longer? You’re correct. It is almost Daylight Saving Time. Many of the timepieces you rely on will automatically make the change thanks to their software, while your analog devices will need...

Tuesday, March 9, 2021

Most people understand that stock prices don't go straight up. But when market volatility increases, the price action can test the mettle of even the most seasoned investor.In recent weeks, stock prices have trended lower with a few...

Monday, March 8, 2021

This year we’re celebrating International Women’s Day on March 8. In 1920, women fought for the right to vote. In 1974, single and divorced women were finally able to secure a credit card without needing a male...

Friday, March 5, 2021

I’m sure you’ve heard that the House recently passed the Senate another round of stimulus to try and counteract the economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. The new stimulus package could narrow income eligibility to...

Thursday, March 4, 2021

Stocks dropped amid rising long-term bond yields, with sharp declines in high-valuation growth stocks leading the overall market lower.The Dow Jones Industrial Average slipped 1.78%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 declined...

Wednesday, March 3, 2021

One time-tested principle of investing is, "when bond yields move higher, bond prices tend to move lower." Investors are doing a "double take" on the 10-year Treasury yield, which recently topped 1.5% — its highest level in...

Tuesday, March 2, 2021

On Monday, Feb. 22, the White House announced several changes to the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) that went into effect on Wednesday, Feb. 24. These changes are intended to further target “the smallest businesses and those...

Thursday, February 25, 2021

Imagine your ideal post-pandemic retirement with this hopeful, animated video.

Tuesday, February 23, 2021

The acronym “SPAC” is showing up more often these days because there is some big money behind the revitalized investment approach.SPAC stands for Special Purpose Acquisition Company, and they are sometimes referred to as...

Friday, February 19, 2021

At this time last year, it was still unknown that a deadly global pandemic was on the rise, eventually stalling economic growth and sending crude oil prices into negative territory. But recently, oil prices have surged, with crude...

Wednesday, February 17, 2021

It can be easy to overlook the nation’s solid economic fundamentals when the financial media splashes stories every day about an army of amateur traders, short-selling mania, and initial public offerings (IPOs) that double in...

Tuesday, February 16, 2021

While many in the United States are beginning to receive vaccinations and people are starting to foresee a life after COVID-19, it remains clear that things aren’t yet back to normal. As a result, there has been a great deal of...

Thursday, February 11, 2021

Recently, Jeff Bezos, one of the wealthiest people in the world, announced he would take a different role at his company. Corporate moves make the news all the time, but for the largest companies, the story can jump from the business...

Wednesday, February 10, 2021

What's your "go-to" source for financial information?"Family and friends" is the #1 answer given in the annual Retirement Confidence Survey. But a close second is search engines and other online tools, including online forums like the...

Tuesday, February 9, 2021

Recently, the world has watched with great interest as a few companies have seen surprising rallies in their stock prices. You may have read stories of individual investors gaining massive returns on their investments, thanks to this...

Wednesday, February 3, 2021

Former Federal Reserve chair Janet L. Yellen was sworn in as the 78th Secretary of the Treasury on January 26, 2021. This was a moment for historical reflection, as Yellen is the first woman confirmed to this vital cabinet position...

Tuesday, February 2, 2021

You may have heard the news about stocks for certain companies suddenly ballooning, quickly going from lunch money prices to several hundred dollars a share. In one case, the shares rose over 1700% since December 2020.1 So, what...

Monday, February 1, 2021

Every February, Americans celebrate Black History Month. This year, we invite you to join us in remembering the accomplishments of black citizens, past and present, which are an integral part of American history.Whether it’s the...

Wednesday, January 27, 2021

Every few months, you may hear the phrase “earnings season” as you listen to financial news.But what exactly is “earnings season,” and why is it important to Wall Street?Earnings season is the time when a...

Saturday, January 23, 2021

Markets drifted lower last week as uninspired investors digested mixed news on the economic front.The Dow Jones Industrial Average lost 0.91% while the Standard & Poor’s 500 slid 1.48%. The Nasdaq Composite index stumbled 1...

Friday, January 22, 2021

Recently, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) announced that tax season will start a little later than usual. This year the IRS will begin accepting and processing 2020 tax returns on Friday, February 12, 2021.1In light of the December...

Monday, January 18, 2021

This month, America honors the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.As we look around today, we see manifestations of that legacy in the form of stronger, more diverse communities, in the continued fight for equality, and in the...

Sunday, January 17, 2021

On October 26, the Treasury Department released the 2021 adjusted figures for retirement account savings. Although these adjustments won’t bring any major changes, there are some minor elements to note.401(k)sThe salary deferral...

Saturday, January 16, 2021

The personal savings rate in the United States, which is the amount of income left after taxes and household spending, has reached some significant milestones.In April, when much of the country stayed home to avoid the COVID-19...

Friday, January 15, 2021

As election season draws to a close, it's a great time to review what type of legislative support would be needed to pass certain policy proposals that may come forward from the Biden Administration.It's important to remember that...

Thursday, January 14, 2021

The first week of 2021 has already had many ups and downs. Just because it’s a new year doesn’t mean that the 2020 issues go away, and so far, 2021 has been no exception to this rule.The markets opened on January 4 and...

Thursday, January 14, 2021

After a bit of political posturing in December, the $900 billion Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021 (2021 CAA) was signed into law by President Trump as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to impact employers and employees...

Friday, November 20, 2020

As the United States sees a rise in cases of COVID-19 across the nation, news of two promising vaccines out of hundreds being tested has offered a ray of hope for a fatigued world.1A positive reaction to these vaccines affects every...

Tuesday, November 17, 2020

As an investor, it can be tempting to get caught up in daily news headlines. Consider how news about the election and COVID-19 vaccines have moved the markets over the past several weeks. But having a financial strategy can help you...

Thursday, November 12, 2020

After many weeks of telegraphing a long and careful ballot count, this week’s election lived up to that prediction in races for the Senate, the House, and the presidency. While Americans voted Tuesday, Wall Street cast its...

Tuesday, November 10, 2020

Now that several major news groups have projected Joe Biden the winner of the presidential election—and Congress appears divided with Democrats in control of the House and Republicans the Senate—it’s a good time to...

Thursday, November 5, 2020

With all the election chatter and stock market volatility, it may have been easy to miss the ongoing uptrend in long-term interest rates.The yield on the 10-year Treasury bond is sitting just below 1%. Just a few short months ago, the...

Thursday, October 29, 2020

Earnings are coming in, reflecting the third quarter of 2020. However, it’s important not to jump to any conclusions about the state of the overall economy based on the results reported from a small handful of companies...

Tuesday, October 27, 2020

It should come as no surprise that the economy is the most crucial issue in the upcoming election.But here's something that may surprise you. More than 90% of investors say they plan to change their portfolio in the 12 months...

Thursday, October 22, 2020

The upcoming election is prompting some people to reconsider their investment strategy.In fact, 45% of consumers with $100,000 or more investable assets expect to make changes to their portfolio due to the upcoming 2020 presidential...

Tuesday, October 20, 2020

It’s a startling statistic.45% of consumers with $100,000 or more investable assets expect to make changes to their investments due to the upcoming 2020 presidential election.1Second-guessing your investment strategy is natural,...

Thursday, October 15, 2020

On October 13, 2020, the Social Security Administration (SSA) officially announced that Social Security recipients will receive a 1.3 percent cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for 2021. This adjustment will begin with benefits payable...

Tuesday, October 13, 2020

Applications for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) are now open for the academic year 2021-22. Applying for the FAFSA allows you to qualify for grants, scholarships, and other federally-sourced aid, such as...

Thursday, October 8, 2020

It should come as no surprise to hear the economy is the top issue for voters in the 2020 election. Nearly 8 in ten voters say that the economy will be very important to them when they cast their votes.1But when voters say...

Tuesday, October 6, 2020

When training to become a financial professional, much of our course work centers on the six critical areas of creating a financial strategy. Some recognize October as Financial Planning Month, so it's an excellent opportunity to...

Thursday, October 1, 2020

Stocks were mixed last week as worries that stretched from Washington D.C., where prospects of a new fiscal stimulus bill dimmed, to Europe, which saw an increase of new COVID-19 cases.The Dow Jones Industrial Average declined 1.75%,...

Tuesday, September 29, 2020

In theory, investors understand that stock market corrections are part of the investing process. But experiencing a setback—like the one we’ve witnessed in the past four weeks—can raise a lot of shoulda, woulda,...

Tuesday, September 22, 2020

As the U.S. presidential election draws near, expect to see more and more headlines that propose, "What will happen next if this person is elected?" or, "What policy changes to prepare for in the next four years?"In reality, however,...

Thursday, September 17, 2020

To some, this may hardly feel like an economy headed for a bright future. But don’t tell that to home builders.Builder confidence in August jumped to an eye-popping 78 in August, according to the Housing Market Index courtesy of...

Tuesday, September 15, 2020

A U.S. drug company recently said that it’s in late-stage trials for its coronavirus vaccine and reported that it could be given to Americans as early as the end of the year.1Great news. But it seems like every few days...

Friday, September 11, 2020

Football is back, which means Summer is coming to a close, days will get shorter, and sweaters will soon be in play.This year, there was no pre-season, so professional football started in September, which coincidentally, is a...

Thursday, September 3, 2020

To some, this may hardly feel like an economy headed for a bright future. But don’t tell that to home builders.Builder confidence in August jumped to an eye-popping 78 in August, according to the Housing Market Index courtesy of...

Tuesday, September 1, 2020

The Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA), one of the most widely followed stock market indices, has made some key changes to its starting lineup.Salesforce.com, Amgen Inc.and Honeywell International Inc. have replaced Exxon Mobil Corp....

Thursday, August 27, 2020

Some people in recent weeks may have been feeling that “the stock market seems to be doing so well but I’m not participating.”A look behind the headlines helps tell the story.A CNBC study found that between the stock...

Tuesday, August 25, 2020

Two high-profile companies—Apple and Tesla—have announced stock splits in the past few weeks, which makes it a great time to discuss what’s involved when a company announces a stock split.Remember, any companies...

Thursday, August 20, 2020

This month, many universities and colleges are welcoming students back to campus, even if most campuses are largely online this year.But that's not all that's different. The current administration has issued an executive memorandum...

Tuesday, August 18, 2020

"Will I outlive my retirement money?" That's one of the top fears for people who are starting to prepare for their retirement years.So I have to chuckle a bit when I see headlines that say, "Here's how much money Americans think they...

Thursday, August 13, 2020

Are you one of the many retirement account holders who took a mandatory distribution this year? If so, you may be able to manage the taxes associated with Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) from traditional IRAs and 401(k)s. There...

Tuesday, August 11, 2020

One of my favorite Wall Street quotes is from Mark Twain, who said:“October: This is one of the peculiarly dangerous months to speculate in stocks. The others are July, January, September, April, November, May, March, June,...

Thursday, July 30, 2020

With all of the storm and stress of the year 2020, you’d be forgiven if you momentarily forgot that we’re due for another national election in November. Many states will be selecting governors, representatives, and...

Tuesday, July 28, 2020

To some, the buying and selling of a company’s stock by corporate officers and directors can be an indicator of Wall Street sentiment.In July 2020, the ratio of companies with executive buying compared with executive selling...

Tuesday, July 21, 2020

Recently, you may have heard that financial industry regulators established a new set of rules designed to guide investors who work with an investment professional. This new set of rules is called “Regulation Best...

Wednesday, July 15, 2020

In the era of COVID-19, and the financial woes it has created, I often get asked, “Why is the stock market holding up so well when the economy appears to be struggling?”To understand why the markets react — or...

Wednesday, July 8, 2020

With the economy and financial markets flashing mixed signals, it’s no wonder that lawmakers are deadlocked on whether to pass a Phase 4 of the CARES Act.More than $3 trillion in stimulus has been pushed into the economy since...

Thursday, July 2, 2020

A jump in COVID-19 cases dampened investor enthusiasm last week, sending stock prices lower on worries that rising infections could derail the economic recovery.The Dow Jones Industrial Average slumped 3.31%, while the Standard &...

Tuesday, June 30, 2020

In our uncertain climate, it’s unsurprising that when American investors are thinking about their financial strategy, that the topic of life insurance comes up.For some, it’s always been front of mind. For younger...

Friday, June 26, 2020

Americans who have been adversely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic may now be able to access retirement accounts to help cover daily expenses, penalty-free.Now, in addition to those who have lost their jobs during the COVID-19...

Tuesday, June 23, 2020

An “eye-popping” $2 trillion in cash has been stashed in deposit accounts at U.S. banks since the COVID-19 pandemic first hit the country in January.1This surge of money into banks has no precedent in history.Several...

Tuesday, June 16, 2020

The National Bureau of Economic Research (NBER) reported in recent weeks that the U.S. economy officially entered a recession in February 2020. This transition brought a 128-month expansion to an end, the longest in post World War II...

Thursday, June 11, 2020

As Americans adjust their spending habits in a rapidly changing economy, they are building cash reserves at an unprecedented rate.The Bureau of Economic Analysis reported on May 29th that the personal savings rate hit a historic 33%...

Wednesday, June 3, 2020

In recent days, we have watched as outraged and frustrated protestors spilled out into the streets of American cities. Across our communities, unhealed wounds have been brought vividly to our attention once again. Our firm is committed...

Tuesday, May 26, 2020

Upbeat comments by the Federal Reserve Chairman and more signs of an economic turnaround combined to help fuel a powerful rally in the stock market last week. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 3.29%, while the Standard &...

Friday, May 22, 2020

Hindsight is 20/20. It’s only human to imagine what it might have been like to turn left instead of right on some fateful day. However, that sort of daydreaming is unhelpful when investing, especially when it leads you to try...

Wednesday, May 20, 2020

Undeniably, Spring 2020 has tried the patience of investors. An 11-year bull market ended. Key economic indicators went haywire. Household confidence was shaken. The Standard & Poor’s 500, the benchmark for the broad stock...

Friday, May 15, 2020

Even in “normal” times, the news can be depressing. But these days, it can seem like there’s an awful lot to worry about. Here’s a sampling of the types of headlines I’ve seen recently: Why US hospitals...

Wednesday, May 13, 2020

The Internal Revenue Service knows that many taxpayers have had a stressful spring. So, it has reset the federal tax deadline. You now have until July 15 to file your 1040 form. July 15 is also the deadline to pay any federal taxes...

Thursday, May 7, 2020

Are you or someone you know currently making federal student loan payments? In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, some welcome relief may be on the way. Thanks to the recent passage of the CARES Act, the U.S. Department of Education will...

Tuesday, May 5, 2020

The COVID-19 outbreak has put tremendous pressure on stock prices, prompting some investors to blindly and indiscriminately sell positions at a time when the entire market is trending lower. Worried investors believe "this time it's...

Thursday, April 30, 2020

American lawmakers have passed the Paycheck Protection Program and Health Care Enhancement Act, a program that will offer small business loans to employers in need of aid as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.1,2 The bill is a $484...

Tuesday, April 28, 2020

Are you eligible for a stimulus check from the Treasury Department? As of Friday, April 24, the Internal Revenue Service said it had issued 88 million payments to individuals across the country. It plans to send out more than 150...

Thursday, April 23, 2020

Few life events are more stressful than a job loss. If you or someone you know is in this situation due to COVID-19, you’ll likely have several questions about job hunting, unemployment insurance, and health care. You may also be...

Wednesday, April 22, 2020

Thanks to COVID-19, flying is down, driving is down, and the price of fuel is way, way down. On April 20, U.S. crude oil dropped to its lowest level in more than 30 years, due to a slump in demand. That day, West Texas Intermediate...

Friday, April 17, 2020

The stock market staged a broad rally this week, buoyed by the prospect that COVID-19’s grip on the nation may be easing and news of another Federal Reserve program to help stabilize businesses. The Dow Jones Industrial Average...

Tuesday, April 14, 2020

The COVID-19 pandemic has shaken up nearly every aspect of American life. To say it’s been a difficult time would be an understatement. However, difficult times may open doors to new possibilities. Businesses are changing their...

Wednesday, April 8, 2020

Here’s a quick refresher: a correction is defined as a decline of 10% or greater from a recent high in the financial markets. Corrections can last anywhere from days to months, but few have lasted longer. Recently, we’ve...

Monday, April 6, 2020

In light of current events and potential financial difficulties caused by the COVID-19 outbreak, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has postponed the 2019 federal income tax filing and payment deadline until July 15, 2020.1,2,3 Those...

Wednesday, April 1, 2020

As I’m sure you know, the $2 trillion “Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security” (“CARES”) Act was recently signed into law. The CARES Act is designed to help those most impacted by the COVID-19...

Monday, March 30, 2020

CARES Act, which includes an estimated $2 TRILLION or more in stimulus, was signed into law. Read insights and details here.

Tuesday, March 24, 2020

In your investing lifetime, you may only see a situation like the recent novel coronavirus (COVID-19) a few times. This is a circumstance where complete candor is necessary. The truth is that we can’t yet gauge the full economic...

Thursday, March 12, 2020

What has upswings and downturns, troughs, peaks, and plateaus? Though such terms could easily describe a roller coaster ride, they are also commonly used to describe the business cycle. The business cycle – also known as the...

Tuesday, March 10, 2020

Whether through inertia or trepidation, investors who put off important investment decisions might consider the admonition offered by motivational speaker Brian Tracy, “Almost any decision is better than no decision at all...

Tuesday, March 3, 2020

FILING FINAL TAX RETURNS FOR THE DECEASED When a family member passes away, there are many decisions that need to be made and many emotions to handle. The last thing anyone thinks about is taxes. Unfortunately, even the deceased...

Thursday, February 27, 2020

If you're like many small business owners, running your own business is an all-consuming endeavor. In the face of everyday demands, choosing a retirement plan for your business can become a casualty. The idea of establishing a plan...

Thursday, February 20, 2020

The Internal Revenue Service estimates that taxpayers and businesses spend 8.1 billion hours a year complying with tax-filing requirements. To put this into perspective, if all this work were done by a single company, it would need...

Thursday, February 6, 2020

Every year the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) releases its list of tax scams, spotlighting the myriad ways that people try to separate you from your money.¹ The “Dirty Dozen” Identity Theft Using your personal...

Tuesday, February 4, 2020

The reason withdrawals from an Traditional Individual Retirement Account (IRA) prior to age 59½ are generally subject to a 10% tax penalty is that policymakers wanted to create a disincentive to use these savings for anything...

Thursday, January 30, 2020

Some of us share a common experience. You’re driving along when a police cruiser pulls up behind you with its lights flashing. You pull over, the officer gets out, and your heart drops. “Are you aware the registration on...

Tuesday, January 28, 2020

Everyone loves a winner. If an investment is successful, most people naturally want to stick with it. But is that the best approach? It may sound counter intuitive, but it may be possible to have too much of a good thing. Over time,...

Tuesday, January 21, 2020

HOW TO MAKE THE TAX CODE WORK FOR YOU By April 19, 2019, 137million taxpayers had dutifully filed their federal income tax returns.1 And they all made decisions about deductions and credits – whether they realized it. When you...

Thursday, January 16, 2020

YOUR EMERGENCY FUND: HOW MUCH IS ENOUGH? Have you ever had one of those months? The water heater stops heating, the dishwasher stops washing, and your family ends up on a first-name basis with the nurse at urgent care. Then, as...

Tuesday, January 14, 2020

Who among us wants to pay the IRS more taxes than we have to?1 While few may raise their hands, Americans regularly overpay because they fail to take tax deductions for which they are eligible. Let’s take a quick look at the six...

Wednesday, January 8, 2020

Washington was busy this holiday season. As many of us were looking forward to some well-earned time off, new legislation was passed, and it affects some of the old rules for traditional Individual Retirement Accounts. These changes...

Wednesday, November 6, 2019

Oh November. You may be thinking about soup and turkey. We are definitely thinking about year end tax planning. You may be anxiously awaiting your daily PSL (pumpkin spice latte). We are calculating RMD's (required minimum...

Wednesday, October 2, 2019

For inquiring minds... http://www.giesassociates.com/resource-center/investment/how-stocks-work

Monday, March 25, 2019

Military families face unique challenges, making personal finance even more critical.

Thursday, March 7, 2019

Six overlooked tax deductions to help manage your tax bill.

Monday, March 4, 2019

Do you know how to set up your financial goals for success? This knight does.

Tuesday, February 19, 2019

Understanding tax strategies and managing your tax bill are an integral part of a sound financial approach.

Thursday, February 14, 2019

Bonds may outperform stocks one year only to have stocks rebound the next.

Tuesday, February 5, 2019

Getting ready for retirement? Before you can cross that bridge, you’ll need to cross some important items off your to-do list.

Thursday, January 31, 2019

While Americans are entitled to take every legitimate deduction to manage their taxes, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) places limits on your creativity. Here are some examples of deductions from the IRS that were permitted and some...

Tuesday, January 29, 2019

An 11 year old from Bellingham, WA recently started a newsletter to bring more happiness to our city. Subscribe and be happy!

Thursday, January 24, 2019

Some people may want a more advanced gifting strategy that can maximize their gift and generate potential tax benefits.

Tuesday, January 22, 2019

When you take the time to learn more about how it works, you may be able to put the tax code to work for you. Read More

Wednesday, January 16, 2019

That big list of dreams and goals isn't the only way to look at your bucket list. View More

Thursday, December 13, 2018

Not sure what to make for Christmas Dinner this year? Find inspiration with Edible Seattle's list of recipes.

Monday, December 10, 2018

How literate are you when it comes to your finances? Brush up with these five basics. Read Here

Thursday, December 6, 2018

Ever wonder exactly how stocks work? Read on for more information. Read More

Tuesday, November 27, 2018

In order to get where you want to go, you need to know where you are. You can get a view of your financial position by generating a personal net worth statement. View Here

Tuesday, November 20, 2018

From the Dutch East India Company to Wall Street, the stock market has a long and storied history. View Here

Wednesday, November 14, 2018

Are you a thrill seeker, or content to relax in the backyard? Use this flowchart to find out more about your risk tolerance. Read More

Monday, November 12, 2018

Being healthy not only makes you feel good, it may also help you financially. Read More

Thursday, November 1, 2018

How do the markets usually react to elections? Was the 2016 election any different? View More

Tuesday, October 30, 2018

Understanding the cycle of investing may help you avoid easy pitfalls. Watch Now

Tuesday, October 23, 2018

One of the most basic tenets of sound investing involves the simple habit of “paying yourself first.” Read More

Wednesday, October 17, 2018

Many people have the potential to earn a small fortune during their working years. Yet some are unaware of how their annual income adds up over the years. This calculator, designed to help you estimate how much you may earn before you...

Thursday, October 4, 2018

Here is a quick history of the Federal Reserve and an overview of what it does. View More

Tuesday, October 2, 2018

Having an emergency fund may help alleviate the stress and worry associated with a financial crisis. Read More

Thursday, September 27, 2018

China owns a portion of the total outstanding debt of the U.S. Government. What does it mean? Read More

Monday, September 24, 2018

We all know the stock market can be unpredictable. We all want to know, “What’s next for the financial markets?” View More

Monday, September 17, 2018

Compound interest is the addition of interest to the principal sum of a loan or deposit, or in other words, interest on interest. Read on to see how powerful it really is. Read More

Wednesday, September 12, 2018

Financial and Healthcare Documents Read more

Monday, September 10, 2018

Pundits say a lot of things about the markets. Let's see if you can keep up. See more

Monday, September 10, 2018

MONEY DRAINING FOOD MYTHS The road to better health may sometimes involve an extra expense here and there, but you should be careful about wasting money on diet ideas with promises that are more based on myth than fact. Identified...

Thursday, August 23, 2018

Seasoned Traveler Tips

Thursday, July 12, 2018

Are you an owner of a thriving business or a medical or legal practice? Are you a highly paid executive? If you have children, at some point they may discern how wealthy you are – and in turn, learn how “rich” they...

Thursday, July 12, 2018

Whether you want to leave work at 62, 67, or 70, claiming the retirement benefits you are entitled to by federal law is no casual decision. You will want to consider a few key factors first. How long do you think you will live? If you...

Thursday, July 12, 2018

On September 7, credit reporting agency Equifax dropped a consumer bombshell. It revealed that cybercriminals had gained access to the personal information of as many as 143 million Americans between May and July – about 44% of...

Thursday, July 12, 2018

Imagine finding out that your computer has been hacked. The hackers leave you a message: if you want your data back, you must pay them $300 in bitcoin. This was what happened to hundreds of thousands of PC users in May 2017 when they...

Thursday, July 12, 2018

SMART TIP: Grilling burgers? To make your patty juicier, try dunking it in very cold water for about 20-30 seconds before placing it on the grill. WHO SAID IT? “Avoiding danger is no safer in the long run than outright exposure....

Thursday, July 12, 2018

At first glance, the rules surrounding inherited IRAs are complex. Here are some questions (and potential answers) to consider if you have inherited one or may in the future. Who was the original IRA owner? If the original owner was...

Thursday, July 12, 2018

Many households and businesses are insufficiently insured. The problem is not necessarily the quality of coverage, but the breadth and depth of it. Your own business or household may be more vulnerable than you realize. Too many people...

Thursday, July 12, 2018

Major changes may be ahead for federal tax law. At the start of November, House Republicans rolled out their plan for sweeping tax reforms. Negotiations may greatly alter the content of the bill, but here are the proposed adjustments,...

Thursday, July 12, 2018

An executive transitions into a consulting role at age 62 and stops working altogether at 65; then, he becomes a buyer for a church network at 69. A corporate IT professional decides to conclude her career at age 58; she serves as a...

Thursday, July 12, 2018

President Donald Trump signed the Tax Cuts & Jobs Act into law on December 22, and on January 1, some key details of the Internal Revenue Code will abruptly change.1 There will be night-and-day change, both figuratively and literally....

Thursday, July 12, 2018

MONTHLY NEWS AND INFORMATION FOR CURRENT AND FUTURE RETIREES JANUARY 2018 “All that is gold does not glitter, not all those who wander are lost; the old that is strong does not wither, deep roots are not reached by the frost...

Thursday, July 12, 2018

It’s not uncommon – Many a well-educated, socially conscious, environmentally friendly investor winds up buying shares of companies whose beliefs and business practices are far removed from their own. Why? Often investors...

Wednesday, July 11, 2018

Are the days of itemizing over? Not quite, but now that H.R. 1 (popularly called the Tax Cuts & Jobs Act) is the law, all kinds of itemized federal tax deductions have vanished. Early drafts of H.R. 1 left only two itemized deductions...

Wednesday, July 11, 2018

Stocks sometimes retreat. That reality can be overlooked in a long bull market. Bear markets do appear, and a deep downturn could force you to sell securities in retirement, so you can pay for necessary expenses. Right now, you might...

Wednesday, July 11, 2018

Fewer taxpayers are itemizing in the wake of federal tax reforms. You may be one of them, and you may be wondering how many receipts, forms, and records you need to hold onto for the future. Is it okay to shred more of them? Maybe not....

Wednesday, July 11, 2018

Sometimes more money can mean more problems. “Lifestyle creep” is an unusual phrase describing an all-too-common problem: the more money people earn, the more money they tend to spend. Frequently, the newly affluent are the...