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Wednesday, May 13, 2026

Taking The Right Financial Steps Can Make a Big Difference After Being Widowed Taking the right first financial steps after losing a spouse matters because it helps widowed individuals regain stability, avoid costly mistakes, and make...

Wednesday, May 13, 2026

April Inflation Jumped to 3.8% and What That Means April inflation rising to 3.8% signals that prices are accelerating faster than expected, largely driven by surging energy costs, especially gasoline, due to Middle East...

Wednesday, May 13, 2026

Backdoor Roth IRAs and Inherited IRAs: Today’s Slott Report Mailbag QUESTION: When someone under age 59½ uses the “backdoor” method of making Roth IRA contributions, does the 10% penalty apply to subsequent withdrawals if the IRA...

Tuesday, May 12, 2026

USPS May Need Additional Financial Assistance From Congress to Avoid Running Out of Cash as Early As 2027 📨 Key Points in One Sentence USPS leaders warn that the agency’s current business model cannot sustain mandated nationwide...

Monday, May 11, 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...

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Monday, May 11, 2026

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...

Friday, May 8, 2026

Gasoline Prices Climb Toward $5 As Strait Of Hormuz Remains Closed Gasoline prices are surging toward $5 per gallon because the Strait of Hormuz remains closed, sharply tightening global oil supplies and pushing U.S. pump prices to...

Thursday, May 7, 2026

As the days grow longer, the extra sunlight can be a welcome change, but it can also disrupt your usual routine more than you might expect. Longer sunsets often mean later dinners, delayed bedtimes, and evenings that seem less...

Wednesday, May 6, 2026

Gasoline Prices Climb Toward $5 As Strait of Hormuz Remains Closed Gasoline prices are surging toward $5 per gallon because the Strait of Hormuz remains closed, sharply tightening global oil supplies and pushing U.S. pump prices to...

Tuesday, May 5, 2026

Grandparents Should Be Very Careful Before Opening Trump Accounts Contributions to Trump Accounts, the new tax-deferred savings vehicle for children, can’t be made until July 4, 2026. However, the opportunity to open a Trump Account,...

Monday, May 4, 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...

Monday, May 4, 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...

Friday, May 1, 2026

Voters Across Parties See The National Debt And The Rising Cost Of Living As Major Issues Shaping The 2026 Election With new polling showing overwhelming concern about how federal debt is driving up everyday expenses. 🗳️ Why These...

Friday, May 1, 2026

Ed Slott reprinted with permission of Ed Slott and Company, LLC. Ed Slott and Company, LLC takes no responsibility for the current accuracy of this information. information.

Monday, April 27, 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

Taxes can be a snapshot of our money, and tax season can make most of us feel like we have a clear view of that photo. That's because filing taxes is both a look at the past and a chance to create a roadmap for the future.Did you end...

Friday, April 24, 2026

Today’s Monthly Cost to Feed a Family of FourKeeping a family of four fed in 2026 requires a significant chunk of the household budget. Based on the most recent USDA (U.S. Department of Agriculture) and Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)...

Tuesday, April 21, 2026

Tuesday, April 21, 2026

The Trump Administration Has Pushed For Health-Care Price Transparency Key Reasons for Health-Care Price TransparencyHelp patients understand costs upfrontThe administration argues that Americans often don’t know the cost of care until...

Monday, April 20, 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

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...

Thursday, April 16, 2026

The U.S. is the world’s leading producer of crude oil, but we still import oil based on our refinery needs and the differences in oil quality and composition.This month's On the Mark reviews the recent geopolitical tensions and their...

Tuesday, April 14, 2026

Please Join Carol for a Live, Complimentary WebinarFinancial Literacy and AwarenessApril is Financial Literacy Month The need for greater financial literacy among Americans of all ages and backgrounds has become a hot topic for...

Tuesday, April 14, 2026

Market Timing: Gotta Be Right Twice, TwiceMarket 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...

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...

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...

Wednesday, April 8, 2026

Is Social Security Going Broke? No—Social Security is not going broke or disappearing. But it does face a funding shortfall, which could lead to reduced benefits in the future if no changes are made. 📊 What’s Actually Happening Trust...

Wednesday, April 8, 2026

What Are The Biggest Tax Breaks for Individuals Retirement Account Tax AdvantagesContributions to 401(k)s and IRAs are often tax-deferred or tax-free (Roth).This is the largest tax break overall, costing hundreds of billions annually...

Monday, April 6, 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

April 2026 Asset Mark "Mark to Markets"Click HERE to read more. Mark to Markets Presentation Please let us know if you have any questions!

Monday, April 6, 2026

Financial Stress vs. Financial Reality in RetirementFor 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...

Thursday, April 2, 2026

3 Key Strategies to Help Reduce Taxes on Retirement WithdrawalsKey Takeaways:The years between retirement and age 73 create an important tax-planning window that retirees often missThree strategies can help you reduce lifetime taxes:...

Thursday, April 2, 2026

Tax Prep vs. Tax Strategy: The Difference Matters More Than You ThinkWe all know that April 15 is the end of tax preparation season and the annual deadline for completing and filing your return. As important as proper tax prep is, some...

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...

Tuesday, March 31, 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...

Wednesday, March 25, 2026

What is the Status of the DHS Shutdown? As of March 2026The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is still in a partial shutdown, which began February 14, 2026, after Congress failed to pass a funding bill.The shutdown is ongoing but...

Monday, March 23, 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

You've likely been following the headlines about the military conflict in the Middle East, and we wanted to reach out directly to share our perspective on what it means for your portfolio.Here's what's happening:The escalation of...

Monday, March 23, 2026

Is The USPS Going Out of Business? No — the USPS is not going out of business, but it is facing serious financial problems that could require changes or government action. What’s happeningThe United States Postal Service is warning it...

Monday, March 23, 2026

How do Young People View Pres. Trump and His Administration? Overall sentiment: mixed, but trending negativeYoung Americans today are largely dissatisfied or disillusioned with national leadership overall—not just one president or...

Saturday, March 21, 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...

Monday, March 16, 2026

Is the U.S. Heading Toward a Recession? Most major forecasts say no recession in 2026, but they warn of slower growth and elevated risks. Why Recession Risk Is HigherJob growth is cooling sharply.Tariffs are keeping inflation above...

Monday, March 16, 2026

How The War in Iran is Affecting The U.S. Economy The war in Iran is affecting the U.S. economy mainly through higher energy prices, market volatility, and inflation risk Key Economic Impacts on the U.S. Higher oil and gasoline...

Monday, March 16, 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

As the troubling and fluid events unfold in the Middle East, more investors are asking, “Should we do anything?”Here are a couple of areas to keep an eye on in the weeks ahead.The Fed’s next two-day meeting ends on March 18....

Monday, March 9, 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...

Friday, March 6, 2026

The Economic Impact of The Escalating Conflict in Iran The economic impact of the Iran escalation depends largely on how long the conflict lasts and whether global energy supplies are disrupted. For now, markets are pricing in higher...

Thursday, March 5, 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

One Eye on Individual InvestorsAs the fast-moving events in the Middle East unfold, one indicator to keep an eye on is the sentiment of individual investors. Are they turning too bearish or too bullish? This may provide clues about...

Thursday, March 5, 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...

Wednesday, March 4, 2026

How Might The Recent Strikes Involving Iran Are Affect The Stock Market? Global stocks have fallen sharply:Many major indices dropped as investors fled riskier assets. European and Asian markets saw notable declines, and U.S. markets...

Wednesday, March 4, 2026

Roth IRA Strategies for Reducing Heirs’ Tax Burden Roth IRAs help pre-retirees minimize or eliminate tax burdens for beneficiaries: Tax-free withdrawals for heirs – Inherited Roth IRAs are generally income tax-free if the account meets...

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

President Trump's Social Security Changes So Far: 4 Things You Should KnowSocial Security beneficiaries have seen some big changes over the last 13 months. We're now 13 months into Donald Trump's second presidential term. To say that...

Tuesday, February 24, 2026

President Trump's Social Security Changes So Far: 4 Things You Should KnowSocial Security beneficiaries have seen some big changes over the last 13 months. We're now 13 months into Donald Trump's second presidential term. To say that...

Monday, February 23, 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

February is National Financial Aid Awareness Month, so it’s time to explore the many financial aid resources available for college-bound students. Whether you’re a parent or grandparent, understanding these choices may help your loved...

Friday, February 20, 2026

Interest Costs on the National Debt Are Reaching All-Time Highs The most recent projections from the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) confirm once again that America’s fiscal outlook is on an unsustainable path — increasingly driven...

Friday, February 20, 2026

The Supreme Court Strikes Down Trump’s Sweeping Tariffs On February 20, 2026, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that most of President Donald Trump’s broad global tariffs are illegal and struck them down. The Court held that the president...

Friday, February 20, 2026

On the Mark - Avoid Striking Out in 2026 with Diversification Diversification is working again, not because markets are easier, but because returns are coming from more places. Timing market cycles is hard; diversification helps...

Wednesday, February 18, 2026

Is the “lock in” breaking, or are homeowners going to double down on their low-cost mortgages?The most recent stats show that 20 percent of home borrowers now have mortgages with an interest rate over 6 percent, indicating they have...

Saturday, February 14, 2026

The Office of Personnel Management’s (OPM) Recent Change to Shutdown Guidance - Back Pay Debate What changed in OPM’s guidance: • In January 2026, OPM updated its federal shutdown guidance and removed language that had previously said...

Saturday, February 14, 2026

Q1 2026 Investor Snapshot Markets are entering 2026 with optimism, but expectations are high — which means selectivity and risk management matter more than momentum chasing. Economy & RatesInflation has cooled compared with prior...

Monday, February 9, 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...

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

Trump is Pushing to Include Risky Assets Like Crypto And Private Equity in 401(K)S Why this endangers retirement savers and the economy President Trump has veered away from the path that previous administrations have taken on 401(k)...

Tuesday, February 3, 2026

As ACA Subsidies Expire, Voters Cite Health Costs as Top Economic Worry, Survey Finds Key Points Health costs are their top financial worry for many consumers, ahead of their ability to pay for other household necessities like...

Tuesday, February 3, 2026

What Medicaid, SNAP Work Requirements in Trump’s ‘Big Beautiful Bill’ Mean For Older Workers Key PointsPresident Donald Trump’s “Big Beautiful Bill” introduced Medicaid work requirements for certain individuals up to age 64, and raised...

Monday, February 2, 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...

Monday, February 2, 2026

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...

Friday, January 30, 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...

Friday, January 30, 2026

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 of money to...

Thursday, January 29, 2026

Federal Reserve Keeps Interest Rates Unchanged Even as Trump Continues to Insist They be LoweredThe Federal Reserve pushed the pause button on its interest rate cuts Wednesday, leaving its key rate unchanged at about 3.6% after...

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...

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....

Tuesday, January 20, 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...

Thursday, January 15, 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...

Tuesday, January 13, 2026

White House Says It’s Reviewing Protocols After Trump Seemingly Violated Federal Policy By Disclosing Jobs Data Early U.S. President Donald Trump appeared to leak jobs data last Thursday evening The White House said Friday that it is...

Tuesday, January 13, 2026

This is especially useful if you’re starting with little or nothing saved. It combines actionable steps, current IRS rule changes, budgeting guidance, and strategies to maximize growth. Understand 2026 Contribution Limits & RulesHigher...

Monday, January 12, 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

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...

Wednesday, January 7, 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

Here's When the Federal Reserve is Expected to Cut Interest Rates in 2026, and What it Means for the Stock Market Key PointsThe U.S. Federal Reserve cut interest rates three times in 2025, which followed three cuts in 2024.Inflation...

Monday, January 5, 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....

Monday, January 5, 2026

As the new year begins, it's an ideal time to review your finances and set a path toward improved financial health. If you're a client of a financial advisor, consider these strategies to simplify your budget, set goals, and develop...

Wednesday, December 31, 2025

Join Carol for a live, complimentary webinar: Changes Coming in 2026 That Affect Roth IRAs and Related Retirement Account Rules.Let's discuss how this may affect you. Here are the essential key changes:1. Higher Roth IRA Contribution...

Wednesday, December 31, 2025

What You Need to Know About Changes to Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid in 2026What to cheer — and what to worry about The new year will bring changes to some major programs for retirees.A new year approaches and as often happens...

Wednesday, December 31, 2025

How to Build an Emergency Fund, Pay Off Debt and Make a Plan For Your Money in 2026 Find inspiration for achieving your financial resolutions and money goals in 2026The start of a new year usually brings new motivation to achieve goals...

Monday, December 29, 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 22, 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...

Friday, December 19, 2025

Peter G. Peterson Foundation’s Core Issue - High-performance HealthcareHealthcare spending is 18 percent of the U.S. economy — $4.9 trillion — and continues to rise. Despite our massive spending on healthcare — more than twice the...

Friday, December 19, 2025

Can I Create a Roth if I’m Over the Income Limit?Yes, you might be able to create a Roth individual retirement account (IRA) if you’re over the income limit. This strategy involves converting a traditional IRA to a Roth IRA. The idea,...

Friday, December 19, 2025

Social Security has been a fact of retirement life ever since it was established in 1935. We all think we know how it works, but how much do you really know? Here are nine things that might surprise you.The Social Security trust fund...

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

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...

Thursday, December 11, 2025

A New Bill Would Boost Social Security Benefits Temporarily. Here's How it Would Work Recent tax reform is helping millions of seniors to keep more money in their pockets, thanks to a new senior tax deduction that is available through...

Monday, December 8, 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

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...

Monday, December 8, 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,...

Tuesday, December 2, 2025

How To Prepare For The Next Government Shutdown What happens during a government shutdown? Bottom of Form (NerdWallet) – Although government shutdowns are a semi-recurring feature of American government, the most recent closure was the...

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...

Tuesday, November 25, 2025

What Is the AI Bubble? Many analysts believe we’re in an “AI bubble,” where sky-high valuations of AI companies may be built more on hype and future promises than on current profits. Wedbush Investor+2HardReset.info+2 Why It’s Risky:...

Tuesday, November 25, 2025

House Dems Urge Trump Administration to Act on Health Insurance Claim Denials Reps. Bobby Scott, D-Va., and Mark DeSaulnier, D-Calif., call on the Labor Department’s EBSA to strengthen staffing, improve data collection and enhance...

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

The Internal Revenue Service recently released new limits for 2026. Although these adjustments won’t bring any major changes, there are some minor elements to note. Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs) IRA contribution limits are up...

Thursday, November 20, 2025

What Happens When the Government Funding Agreement Expires at the End of January 2026? When a government funding agreement expires, such as at the end of January 2026, several outcomes are possible depending on the nature of the...

Thursday, November 20, 2025

IRS Increases Amount You Can Pay Into Your 401k in 2026 The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has released its updated retirement savings limits for 2026, announcing higher contribution caps for a range of tax-advantaged accounts. Why It...

Thursday, November 20, 2025

The IRS recently released new limits for 2026 The Internal Revenue Service recently released new limits for 2026. Although these adjustments won’t bring any major changes, there are some minor elements to note. Individual Retirement...

Monday, November 17, 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

As an investor, should you be more concerned about the value of your groceries or artificial intelligence? It may seem like a silly question, but there’s a serious answer. One way to measure a stock’s valuation is by looking at what’s...

Wednesday, November 12, 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...

Monday, November 10, 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

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...

Thursday, November 6, 2025

November is Recognized as Long‑Term Care Awareness Month The month-long observance is dedicated to raising awareness about the need for long-term care planning, the available options (home care, assisted living, nursing facilities),...

Monday, November 3, 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...

Monday, November 3, 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, November 3, 2025

The delayed September Consumer Price Index report, released on October 24, was the first major federal economic report since the shutdown began on October 1. But as Underdog said, “there’s no need to fear,” Jerome Powell & Crew have...

Wednesday, October 29, 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...

Friday, October 24, 2025

10 Key Dates to Watch as Government Shutdown Nears Record Length The federal government shutdown is already one of the nation's longest, but several moments approaching in October and November may serve as motivation for its ending....

Friday, October 24, 2025

Go Big or Go Home By Scott Kupor, Director, U.S. Office of Personnel Management October 20, 2025 Recently, I wrote about how incremental change can be an effective tool for increasing the quality and efficiency of government. And that...

Friday, October 24, 2025

The Government Shutdown is Reaching a Tipping Point That Could Send The Economy Into a Downward SpiralFederal workers missing paychecks, risks to SNAP benefits and companies waiting on permits are creating dangerous economic conditions...

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...

Tuesday, October 21, 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 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...

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

US Federal Shutdown Enters Sixth Day as Threat Of Layoffs Looms WASHINGTON (Reuters) -The U.S. government shutdown entered its sixth day on Monday, with President Donald Trump's Republicans and congressional Democrats still at an...

Tuesday, October 7, 2025

“Fall” Into Financial Planning Source: FMG October is Financial Planning Month, and it’s the perfect time to hit “refresh” on your financial life. Whether you're starting from scratch or revisiting your goals, now’s the time to ask...

Wednesday, October 1, 2025

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, and...

Wednesday, October 1, 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...

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...

Monday, September 29, 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...

Thursday, September 25, 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...

Monday, September 22, 2025

What the Fed Rate Cut Will Mean for Your Finances The Federal Reserve cut its benchmark interest rate Wednesday for the first time in nine months. Since the last cut, progress on inflation has slowed while the labor market has cooled....

Monday, September 22, 2025

Opportunities From the One Big Beautiful Bill On July 4, 2025, President signed The One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBB) into law, creating significant tax legislation that extends expiring Tax Cuts & Jobs Act provisions and introducing...

Monday, September 22, 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...

Monday, September 22, 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...

Thursday, September 18, 2025

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 of money to...

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,...

Tuesday, September 16, 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...

Friday, September 12, 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...

Friday, September 12, 2025

September ushers in Life Insurance Awareness Month, a perfect time to pause and review the importance of life insurance and your current coverage. Life insurance isn’t just a financial product—it’s a lifeline, especially for women who...

Tuesday, September 9, 2025

Retirement Wave Hits OPM: Inside August’s Record-Breaking Month New retirement claims spiked in August, but the OPM retirement backlog is not what you would expect. OPM Retirement Backlog Surges 68% to Start 2025 The OPM retirement...

Monday, September 8, 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...

Thursday, September 4, 2025

September is Life Insurance Awareness Month Every September, the industry — led by Life Happens — comes together to sponsor Life Insurance Awareness Month (LIAM). This campaign is designed to educate consumers about the importance of...

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...

Wednesday, August 27, 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...

Friday, August 22, 2025

A New House Bill Would Reverse Cut to FEMA Congressmen Greg Casar, Joe Neguse introduced legislation to reverse Trump’s cut to disaster preparedness, emergency response. It would also require FEMA to bring back the Building Resilient...

Friday, August 22, 2025

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...

Saturday, August 16, 2025

Have you ever read Don Quixote? In the novel, there’s a phrase, "tilting at windmills," which some suggest means don’t fight battles with imaginary foes. I’d like to coin the phrase, “tilting at the Fed.” It will mean don’t fight...

Tuesday, August 12, 2025

The One Big Beautiful Bill Act: Key Tax Changes Starting 2025 EVERYONE 👍 Standard deduction increases to $15,750 for single filers, and $31,500 for those filing jointly. State and local tax (SALT) deduction increases to $40,000...

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

Why is the Death Certificate a Necessity? Source: Beneficiary Liquidity Plan How Long Will It Take to Obtain a Death Certificate? This varies not only by state but also by situation. Reasons that may delay the processing of a death...

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

U.S. Fiscal Confidence Falls to 13-Month Low in Wake of Budget Bill That Will Add Trillions to National Debt Index Drops for Fifth-Straight Month to 45 in July (100 is Neutral) NEW YORK (August 4, 2025) — U.S. Fiscal Confidence fell...

Thursday, August 7, 2025

What Estate Planning Really Is: An Essential Overview Source: wealth.com Estate planning isn’t as complex as it may seem and you don’t need a legal degree to create one. In short, estate planning is simply recording your wishes for...

Wednesday, August 6, 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 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...

Tuesday, August 5, 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,...

Tuesday, July 29, 2025

S&P 500 and Nasdaq Snap Winning Streaks as Stocks Finish Lower Ahead of Fed Decision, Big Tech Earnings U.S. stocks finished lower on Tuesday, with the S&P 500 and Nasdaq Composite both snapping winning streaks ahead of a pivotal day...

Monday, July 28, 2025

The One Big Beautiful Bill Act: Key Tax Changes Starting 2025 EVERYONE 👍 Standard deduction increases to $15,750 for single filers, and $31,500 for those filing jointly. State and local tax (SALT) deduction increases to $40,000...

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...

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,...

Monday, July 21, 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...

Friday, July 18, 2025

How to Navigate Finances After an Inheritance Navigating finances after receiving an inheritance requires a careful and informed approach. Below is a step-by-step guide with reputable sources to help you manage your inherited wealth...

Tuesday, July 15, 2025

Federal Tax Deductions for Tips and Overtime Pay Now Available Through 2028 Sources: National Law Review and USA Today Under the One Big Beautiful Bill signed into law on July 4, 2025, federal income taxes on tips and overtime pay are...

Monday, July 14, 2025

Stocks were slightly lower last week, while looking past news of fresh U.S. tariffs on nearly two dozen countries. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index fell 0.31 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index edged lower by 0.08 percent. The...

Monday, July 14, 2025

We are pleased to share insights from the "MARK to Markets: 2025 Mid-Year Outlook. " This report provides a comprehensive analysis of current market trends, including a rebound in the S&P 500, which gained 25% from its lows due to...

Monday, July 14, 2025

One Key Feature in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act Source: FMG One key feature in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act is the extension and revision of some of the tax laws that were part of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA). Here’s a...

Wednesday, July 9, 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...

Wednesday, July 9, 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...

Tuesday, July 8, 2025

Does the "Big, Beautiful Bill" Eliminate Taxes on Social Security? As Congress was approving President Trump's "big, beautiful bill" on Thursday, the Social Security Administration touted the legislation by stating that it "eliminates...

Monday, July 7, 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...

Thursday, July 3, 2025

Senate Approves “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” The Senate has officially passed the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, but the story behind it is anything but simple. Despite the headline suggesting benefit cuts were removed, the final...

Thursday, July 3, 2025

Are Many Baby Boomers Unprepared for Retirement? Yes — many Baby Boomers are surprisingly unprepared for retirement. Here's a clear breakdown, backed by recent data: 1. A Majority Lack Sufficient Savings: Two‑thirds of "peak Boomers"...

Tuesday, July 1, 2025

How to Calculate Your Social Security Benefits Learn about the calculations that determine your Social Security benefits. Key Points Social Security benefits are based on a formula that considers your income during your 35...

Monday, June 30, 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...

Wednesday, June 25, 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...

Monday, June 23, 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...

Friday, June 20, 2025

2025 Beneficiary IRA Changes If you've inherited an individual retirement account (IRA), you might be sitting on a powerful financial opportunity, but keep in mind that rules have changed in the past few years. The SECURE Act’s 10-year...

Wednesday, June 18, 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....

Wednesday, June 18, 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....

Wednesday, June 11, 2025

How Many People Retire With $1 Million or More in Their Retirement Account? The Number Might Surprise You Many Americans dream of retiring with a million-dollar nest egg —Americans in general think you need about $1.5 million to...

Monday, June 9, 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...

Friday, June 6, 2025

House Reconciliation Bill Would Increase the National Debt by More Than Any Other Recent Legislation As of 6/5/2025 The House recently passed the largest reconciliation bill ever, and it is now under consideration in the Senate. The...

Friday, June 6, 2025

The Scorekeepers Agree: Budget Bill Will Increase U.S. Debt by Trillions The House recently passed the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, and fiscal scorekeepers are unanimous in their assessment that it would increase federal debt by...

Monday, June 2, 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

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...

Monday, June 2, 2025

CEO’s had a singular focus during Q4 conference calls with shareholders: "What’s up with tariffs?” In prior quarters, attention was focused on inflation and artificial intelligence. But not this time around. Shareholders wanted updates...

Thursday, May 29, 2025

Fed Saw Inflation, Jobless, Stability Risks at May Meeting, Minutes Show WASHINGTON, May 28 (Reuters) - U.S. Federal Reserve officials at their last meeting acknowledged they could face "difficult tradeoffs" in coming months in the...

Wednesday, May 28, 2025

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 this year? Has market...

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...

Wednesday, May 21, 2025

Moody's Ratings Downgrades United States Ratings To Aa1 From Aaa; Changes Outlook to Stable On May 16, Moody’s Ratings downgraded the U.S. credit rating, citing an inability of the nation to address large and growing deficits. This...

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

A New ‘Senior Bonus’ Could Give Older Adults a $4,000 Tax Break. Here’s Who Would Qualify President Trump campaigned on a pledge to eliminate taxes on Social Security — but this isn’t that. The bonus tax deduction could help lower and...

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...

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...

Tuesday, May 13, 2025

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, May 6, 2025

Behavioral science tells us current events have a greater impact on our perception and decisions than in the past. In today’s environment, uncertainty reigns, leaving many investors questioning whether this is the start of a long-term...

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

Empowering Women in Retirement Are you one of the 81% of women who are not “very confident” that they will be able to fully retire with a comfortable lifestyle? 90% of women will be solely responsible for their finances at some point...

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...

Tuesday, April 29, 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

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...

Monday, April 21, 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 15, 2025

Weekly Market Insights | Rally Caps Volatile Week 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...

Saturday, April 12, 2025

Here Are Some Recent Top Financial Headlines S&P 500 Approaches 5,000 Amid Strong Earnings and Economic Growth The S&P 500 is nearing the 5,000-point milestone, driven by robust earnings and a stable bond market. This surge reflects U...

Friday, April 11, 2025

Social Security Myths on Social Media: How They Could Hurt You When Paper Checks End If you're dealing with debt collection, pay close attention to the rules relating to direct deposit of Social Security benefits. Banks look back to...

Wednesday, April 9, 2025

Trump Pauses Tariffs For 90 Days On April 9, 2025, President Donald Trump announced a 90-day pause on most U.S. tariffs, reducing them to a universal rate of 10%. This pause applies to numerous trading partners, with the notable...

Tuesday, April 8, 2025

Please Join Carol For Live, Complimentary, Zoom Webinar: TARIFF TURMOIL With Guest Speaker Stoyan Petev From C2P Enterprises You won't want to miss this webinar! Date: Thurs., April 10, 2025 / Time: 5:00pm - 6:00pm EST Click HERE to...

Monday, March 31, 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...

Monday, March 31, 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...

Friday, March 28, 2025

How To Avoid Common Retirement Planning Mistakes Avoiding common retirement planning mistakes is essential for ensuring a secure and comfortable retirement. Here are some prevalent pitfalls and strategies to avoid them, supported by...

Friday, March 28, 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,...

Friday, March 28, 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...

Friday, March 28, 2025

Social Security Requirements Changing in AprilSeveral significant changes to Social Security requirements are taking effect in April 2025:1. Enhanced Identity Verification ProceduresBeginning March 31, 2025, the Social Security...

Tuesday, March 25, 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...

Monday, March 24, 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...

Friday, March 21, 2025

Social Security Employees Warn of Benefit Delays Social Security Administration (SSA) employees have said they are concerned about benefits payments being made on time due to staffing reductions at the federal agency. Why It Matters...

Tuesday, March 18, 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

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

As November ushers in the holiday season, it provides a dedicated time to reflect on gratitude. While many associate this month with feasting and family gatherings, it's also an ideal opportunity to consider the profound connection...

Monday, March 17, 2025

The Money Cycle: 3 Phases Accumulation, Preservation and Distribution Please follow link to find out more. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b-gbjt9CJt8

Monday, March 17, 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...

Thursday, March 13, 2025

Do me a favor: print the chart in this email and pin it to your wall. I want you to have a constant reminder that stock prices see pullbacks several times during the year. It’s a normal, healthy part of the investing cycle. Is it...

Wednesday, March 12, 2025

The Trump administration has implemented numerous executive orders, imposed tariffs, and has implemented mass layoffs of federal employees. This causes uncertainty and government job cuts could dampen consumer confidence and spending....

Tuesday, March 11, 2025

Table of Permissible Changes in FEHB Enrollment and Premium Conversion Election Source: OPM.gov Premium Conversion allows employees who are eligible for FEHB the opportunity to pay for their share of FEHB premiums with pre-tax dollars....

Monday, March 10, 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,...

Monday, March 10, 2025

Warren Buffett, known by some as the Oracle of Omaha, gets much attention whenever he speaks on the record. In a letter opening his company’s annual report, he’s again caught the ear of the business world.1 Some highlights from the...

Monday, March 10, 2025

Wednesday, March 5, 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

Women and Financial Strategies Nearly 60% of women take the lead in managing their household finances, yet only 19% of women feel very confident in their ability to fully retire with a comfortable lifestyle.1,2 These figures suggest...

Tuesday, March 4, 2025

2025 IRA Deadlines Are Approaching What You Need to Know Financially, many of us associate the spring with taxes—but we should also associate December with important Individual Retirement Account (IRA) deadlines. This year, like 2024,...

Monday, March 3, 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...

Thursday, February 27, 2025

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,...

Tuesday, February 25, 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...

Monday, February 24, 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...

Friday, February 21, 2025

Join Carol For Live, Complimentary, Zoom Webinar:Women and Wealth - The Next Chapter This is some of what we'll discuss: • The "Great Wealth Transfer" • Financial preparedness • Exposing the gap • Key risks women face in retirement •...

Wednesday, February 19, 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...

Tuesday, February 11, 2025

Yahoo: Early Impacts of Musk's Access To U.S. Department Of Treasury Payment System CEO of the National Committee to Preserve Social Security and Medicare, Max Richtman, shared his strong opposition to Musk's access to the payment...

Monday, February 10, 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...

Wednesday, February 5, 2025

Join Carol for Live, Complimentary Webinar: 10 Financial Planning and Tax Tips for 2025Date: 3/20/25 from 5:00-6:00pm ESTFollow link to register for live, Zoom webinar: .https://zoom.us/meeting/register/CK-UCBTGRjyMZw9yUeeELQ Financial...

Tuesday, February 4, 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...

Tuesday, February 4, 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...

Thursday, January 30, 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...

Tuesday, January 28, 2025

You're Invited! Please Join Carol for Live, Complimentary Webinar 10 Financial Planning and Tax Tips for 2025 Date: 2/20/25 from 5:00-6:00pm EST Click HERE to register Financial Planning and Advisory Services are offered through...

Tuesday, January 28, 2025

What Is Deepseek, The Chinese AI Company Upending The Stock Market? Source: Associated Press A frenzy over an artificial intelligence chatbot made by Chinese tech startup DeepSeek was upending stock markets Monday and fueling debates...

Tuesday, January 28, 2025

Long Live Lilly Ledbetter Source: FMG Lilly Ledbetter, a steadfast advocate for equal pay, recently passed, leaving a legacy in the fight for fair wages for women. Her story is a powerful reminder of one woman's resilience in the face...

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

76 Options For Reducing The Deficit Debt in the United States is already the size of our entire economy and is projected to grow much higher. Fortunately, there are many ways to stabilize our fiscal outlook. Recently, the nonpartisan...

Thursday, January 23, 2025

Peterson Foundation Statement on CBO Budget Outlook Michael A. Peterson, CEO of the Peter G. Peterson Foundation, commented today on the release of the Congressional Budget Office’s Budget and Economic Outlook: “CBO’s new report shows...

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 21, 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...

Monday, January 20, 2025

76 Options For Reducing The Deficit Debt in the United States is already the size of our entire economy and is projected to grow much higher. Fortunately, there are many ways to stabilize our fiscal outlook. Recently, the nonpartisan...

Wednesday, January 15, 2025

“A goal without a plan is just a wish,” wrote French author Antoine de Saint-Exupéry in the 1942 classic, “The Little Prince.” In financial services, we like to say, “Investing without a strategy is just a dream.” At its core, an...

Tuesday, January 14, 2025

Why is the Death Certificate a Necessity? Source: Beneficiary Liquidity Plan Death is the trigger. The key to starting all claims processes is the death certificate. It provides proof that the transfer of permission, or ownership, has...

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...

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

Join Carol For Complimentary Webinar: Estate Planning Made Easy With Wealth.com Featuring guest presenter, Andy Miller from Wealth.com Don’t Leave Life’s Most Important Decisions to the State! While no one wants to leave important...

Wednesday, January 8, 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

What is the New Social Security Fairness Act? The Social Security Fairness Act is legislation aimed at addressing perceived inequities in the Social Security system, specifically the impact of certain provisions that can reduce...

Monday, January 6, 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...

Monday, January 6, 2025

With 2024 coming to a close, I want to share my 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...

Wednesday, December 18, 2024

Thursday, December 12, 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...

Tuesday, December 10, 2024

Weekly Market Insights – December 9, 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...

Tuesday, December 10, 2024

Berkshire Hathaway, the company famously led by Warren Buffett, made headlines for raising its cash levels to all-time highs. This prompted some investors to wonder if markets are over-valued. Stock market valuations are only one...

Sunday, December 8, 2024

The Cost of Doing Nothing About Social Security About 40 years ago, significant reforms were enacted to Social Security to shore up the program and ensure the sustainability of its essential retirement benefits for millions of...

Sunday, December 8, 2024

QCD TIMING Year after year, this topic continues to bubble up. Confusion exists over when a QCD can be done in relation to the RMD. Qualified charitable distributions (QCDs) can offset all or a portion of an RMD (required minimum...

Sunday, December 8, 2024

The Still-Working Exception and Roth Conversions in an RMD Year: Today’s Slott Report Mailbag Question: If you continue to work past age 73, are you exempt from required minimum distributions (RMDs)? My 73-year-old wife is still...

Monday, December 2, 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...

Monday, December 2, 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...

Tuesday, November 26, 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...

Friday, November 22, 2024

End of Year Charitable Giving End of year charitable giving can be a meaningful way to support causes you care about and potentially receive tax benefits as well. Many organizations receive a significant portion of their annual...

Wednesday, November 20, 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...

Sunday, November 17, 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...

Sunday, November 17, 2024

As you build your legacy, considering how to leverage your charitable contributions can be a fulfilling endeavor. Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) can offer an opportunity to support your favorite causes and manage your...

Friday, November 15, 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...

Friday, November 15, 2024

It’s time to talk about a critical aspect of planning for the future—living longer and staying financially secure, especially with the potential for Alzheimer’s and dementia. On average, women live longer than men, which means you...

Friday, November 15, 2024

Some Tax Provisions Are Expiring in 2025 — Here’s What Experts Think About Them The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 (TCJA) lowered taxes for millions of households and made filing simpler for many — all while making the country’s fiscal...

Friday, November 15, 2024

Roth IRA Conversion Considerations Roth IRA conversions remain as popular as ever. However, based on some recent questions we’ve received, it is apparent that folks don’t fully understand all the nuances of this transaction. Here are...

Tuesday, November 12, 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...

Tuesday, November 12, 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...

Tuesday, November 12, 2024

As you build your legacy, considering how to leverage your charitable contributions can be a fulfilling endeavor. Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) can offer an opportunity to support your favorite causes and manage your...

Thursday, November 7, 2024

One of the more contentious elections in recent years has ended with Donald Trump elected to the first nonconsecutive presidential term since Grover Cleveland in 1892.1 Similarly, the Republican Party took control of the Senate, while...

Thursday, November 7, 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...

Wednesday, November 6, 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....

Thursday, October 31, 2024

Higher Catch-Up Contributions Available for Certain Older Employees Starting in 2025 The year is flying by, and before we know it 2025 will be here. With the arrival of the new year, several new provisions from the 2022 SECURE 2.0 law...

Wednesday, October 30, 2024

People have told me, “I can’t wait until the election is over.” That tells me there’s a lot of emotion connected to Tuesday, November 5th! But I’m quick to remind people it may take some time to resolve all of the issues after...

Wednesday, October 30, 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 feel daunting. When it...

Sunday, October 27, 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...

Thursday, October 24, 2024

Higher Catch-Up Contributions Available for Certain Older Employees Starting in 2025 The year is flying by, and before we know it 2025 will be here. With the arrival of the new year, several new provisions from the 2022 SECURE 2.0 law...

Thursday, October 24, 2024

The Beneficiary Liquidity Plan Series Are There Families Who Cannot Pay? According to Phil Graham, Founder of The Beneficiary Liquidity Plan, sometimes, there is no one to pay for the funeral expenses. Perhaps the parent that passed...

Thursday, October 24, 2024

As market volatility increases around election time you’re probably wondering, “How will the election impact my investments?” Please see below for information you may find valuable.

Monday, October 21, 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...

Friday, October 18, 2024

What Are the Funeral Expenses and What Is the Average Cost? Source: Phil Graham, Founder of The Beneficiary Liquidity Plan Funeral home expenses often include professional services (embalming, use of facilities, service, etc.),...

Thursday, October 17, 2024

Join Carol For This Live, Complimentary Webinar: The Great Tax Sunset 2025 In this webinar, you'll be learning about the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act sunsetting provisions. Most of the tax changes in the 2017 Tax Cuts & Jobs Act (TCJA) are...

Thursday, October 17, 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

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...

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...

Tuesday, October 15, 2024

Saturday, October 12, 2024

Death Has a Cost - The Beneficiary Liquidity Plan® Talking About Sex Won't Get You Pregnant... Talking about dying won’t make you die. Source- Beneficiary Liquidity Plan® No one wants to talk about the end of their life. But prepared...

Saturday, October 12, 2024

Discover Which Professions Are Projected to Decline the Most Over the Next Decade. Source: Visual Capitalist From traditional roles facing automation to industries adapting to new technologies, understanding these trends can help job...

Saturday, October 12, 2024

New Battleground Poll: National Debt a Critical Issue for Swing State Voters Across Seven Key States, More than 9-in-10 Want Candidates to Have a Plan for the Debt Voters Want to Hear More about Plans to Address the Debt than Plans for...

Saturday, October 12, 2024

Leaving a Legacy: Life Insurance vs. Roth IRAs Source: FMG Knowing your loved ones have financial support upon your passing helps provide peace of mind. With this in mind, many people use life insurance policies and Roth IRAs to...

Saturday, October 12, 2024

If Being Healthy is Always at the Top of Your Priority List, This Article Might Be Particularly Interesting to You. Source: The Visual Capitalist This piece ranks the healthiest nations in 2024 Rankings are based on key factors like...

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...

Monday, October 7, 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...

Friday, October 4, 2024

Planning for a Bright Future: Women’s Guide to Alzheimer’s and Dementia Risks It’s time to talk about a critical aspect of planning for the future—living longer and staying financially secure, especially with the potential for...

Thursday, October 3, 2024

Beware of Financial Vampires Beware of the Money Vampires lurking in your budget! 🧛‍♀️ Those unused subscription fees could be quietly draining your wallet. 💸 According to Self. - "85.7% of people have at least one paid subscription...

Thursday, October 3, 2024

Surprising News About the New Statute of Limitations for Missed RMDs and Excess IRA Contributions Source: Ed Slott and Company LLC A big change made by the SECURE 2.0 Act of 2022 was adding a new statute of limitations (SOL) for the...

Tuesday, October 1, 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...

Tuesday, October 1, 2024

Elvis once sang, “Home is where the heart is.” Well, according to a recent study that parsed U.S. Census data, home is also where a good chunk of the money is. ResiClubAnalytics found that nearly 40 percent of owner-occupied homes...

Friday, September 27, 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...

Thursday, September 26, 2024

As Election Day Approaches, US Fiscal Confidence Dips and Voters Call on their Leaders to Prioritize Solutions to the National Debt September’s Index is 47 (100 is neutral), as Voter Concern Grows) NEW YORK (September 26, 2024) — With...

Wednesday, September 25, 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...

Wednesday, September 25, 2024

Wall Street knew a change was coming, but the Fed Chair hid the details until the end. At its September meeting, the Fed cut short-term interest rates by 0.50%, which unsettled some who thought Fed officials would be more cautious...

Monday, September 16, 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...

Monday, September 16, 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,...

Wednesday, September 11, 2024

The 2024 Presidential Debate During last night's debate, both candidates talked about their economic ideas, but neither laid out a plan for how they would pay for their proposals or how to tackle our $35 trillion national debt. With...

Tuesday, September 10, 2024

Leaving a Legacy: Life Insurance vs. Roth IRAs Knowing your loved ones have financial support upon your passing helps provide peace of mind. With this in mind, many people use life insurance policies and Roth IRAs to provide income to...

Monday, September 9, 2024

House Republicans Unveil Bill to Avert Partial Government Shutdown, But Senate Democrats Say it's Nonstarter House Republicans on Friday unveiled legislation to avoid a partial government shutdown at the end of the month and fund the...

Monday, September 9, 2024

New IRS Regulations on Year-of-Death RMDs Source: Ed Zurndorfer Much has been written in recent years in financial journals and media outlets about the year-of-death required minimum distribution (RMD). Nevertheless, the rules...

Sunday, September 8, 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...

Friday, September 6, 2024

To Convert or Not to Convert Are you worried about remembering to take your required minimum distributions (RMDs) each year once you hit age 73? If you’re a traditional IRA account owner, this may be just one of the reasons you’re...

Thursday, September 5, 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,...

Wednesday, September 4, 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...

Wednesday, September 4, 2024

Saving for retirement requires dedication, focus, and some sacrifice–a three-pronged approach embraced by a greater number of investors! Nearly 500,000 retirement savers are now 401(k) millionaires, according to Q2 stats compiled by...

Thursday, August 29, 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...

Wednesday, August 28, 2024

Talking Points: ERISA—Still ‘Nifty’ at 50 Source: National Association of Plan Advisors Aug. 27, 2024, by Nevin E. Adams, JD I’ve long relished telling “newbies” to the retirement space that ERISA was the second big executive act of...

Wednesday, August 28, 2024

Roth IRAs vs. 529 Plans Source: Edd Slott and Company LL Back-to-school season is upon us, which serves as a great reminder to consider how you can help your children or grandchildren fund their higher education. There are two popular...

Monday, August 26, 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...

Thursday, August 22, 2024

Financial planning and investment advisory services offered through Prosperity Capital Advisors (PCA) an SEC registered investment advisor. For more information, please visit www.adviserinfo.sec.gov.

Tuesday, August 20, 2024

My Career in Financial Planning By Carol Schmidlin My father, Frank J. Rozanski, was in the financial services business for most of his life. In 1970 he made what he calls his best decision, which was to go independent. He said he...

Monday, August 19, 2024

Financial Planning and Advisory Services are offered through Prosperity Capital Advisors (“PCA”), an SEC registered investment adviser. Registration as an investment adviser does not imply a certain level of skill or training....

Monday, August 19, 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...

Sunday, August 18, 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...

Monday, August 12, 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...

Thursday, August 8, 2024

Discover the benefits of Medicare Advantage plans and how they can provide you with additional health insurance coverage, including features like prescription drug plans and coverage for dental, hearing, and vision insurance. Learn...

Wednesday, August 7, 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...

Wednesday, August 7, 2024

IRS Final Regulations Loosen Definition of “Eligible Designated Beneficiary” Source: Ed Slott and Company LLC One of the positive outcomes of the new IRS final SECURE Act regulations on required minimum distributions (RMDs), released...

Tuesday, August 6, 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...

Monday, August 5, 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

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...

Thursday, July 25, 2024

Your credit score is quite possibly one of your most significant scores, influencing your ability to secure loans, mortgages, and favorable interest rates. A higher score creates better financial opportunities and reflects responsible...

Wednesday, July 24, 2024

Retirement Planning: A Complete Guide Key points Retirement planning involves saving for future expenses. Retirement accounts provide tax advantages. A personalized approach to retirement planning may be best. Retirement may be decades...

Tuesday, July 23, 2024

Does who is sitting in the White House influence markets? According to Kezia Samuels, Deputy Chief Investment Strategist with AssetMark, it may. Still, there are many other factors, such as the actions of foreign leaders, interest...

Monday, July 22, 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

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...

Monday, July 22, 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, July 19, 2024

I watch many economic trends and business issues evolve as a financial professional. The rapid rise of artificial intelligence (AI) during the past year has been remarkable, and it has spotlighted the fast-paced decision-making in the...

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...

Wednesday, July 10, 2024

We are concerned and saddened to hear about Hurricane Beryl’s impact on the Gulf Coast. If you have a moment, please let us know that you and your family are safe. Thank you for being one of our valued clients, and please know that we...

Sunday, July 7, 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...

Saturday, July 6, 2024

Once in a while, I come across a chart that contains so many powerful economic lessons that I want to share it. The accompanying graph shows that most iPhone users use phones from the 13, 12, and 11 iPhone families. Put another way,...

Saturday, July 6, 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...

Tuesday, July 2, 2024

Why Do Families Set Up Joint Ownership Accounts? Often times, clients are simply unaware of how accounts have been set up for them or the consequences that come with joint accounts. Ownership brings liability.....from divorce,...

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...

Monday, July 1, 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...

Monday, June 24, 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

“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...

Monday, June 17, 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

“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 13, 2024

I’d like to tell you about a new value-added service I offer ... one that may prove useful to you, and your family and friends. *Are you looking to enroll in a Medicare Advantage or supplement plan during this year’s Annual Enrollment...

Thursday, June 13, 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...

Tuesday, June 11, 2024

Considerations for Taxes in the Near Future By Carol Schmidlin The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act changes many provisions for businesses, but in this article, we are going to concentrate on what the (TCJA) did for individuals. It made...

Monday, June 10, 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...

Monday, June 10, 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...

Monday, June 10, 2024

Your credit score is quite possibly one of your most significant scores, influencing your ability to secure loans, mortgages, and favorable interest rates. A higher score creates better financial opportunities and reflects responsible...

Monday, June 10, 2024

SECURE ACT REGULATIONS AND INHERITED IRAS: TODAY’S SLOTT REPORT MAILBAG Question: When can we expect final SECURE Act regulations from the IRS? Mike Answer: Hi Mike, No one knows for sure. However, there is now some hope that these may...

Tuesday, June 4, 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...

Monday, June 3, 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

FIVE RMD FACTS EVERY IRA OWNER SHOULD KNOW Source: Ed Slott, www.irahelp.com If you have an IRA and you are approaching retirement age, you have probably heard the term “required minimum distribution” (RMD). But do you know the details...

Thursday, May 30, 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...

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...

Tuesday, May 28, 2024

“Sell in May and go away.” Or so goes the Wall Street adage. But so far this year, that “old saw” is being tested. In fact, “Buy in May and go away” could be a better approach in 2024! Why has May started so well? It’s all about the...

Wednesday, May 22, 2024

Accumulation Phase Versus Distribution Phase By Carol Schmidlin During their working years, typically people try to grow their money and tend to be more aggressive. One of the biggest mistakes people make is going directly from the...

Monday, May 20, 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...

Friday, May 17, 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 14, 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...

Tuesday, May 14, 2024

As we inch closer to the second half of 2024, I’ll give you 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...

Friday, May 10, 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...

Tuesday, May 7, 2024

ROLLOVERS AND SUCCESSOR BENEFICIARY RULES: TODAY’S SLOTT REPORT MAILBAG QUESTION: My client is terminating employment and rolling over the funds from his 401(k). He was told that the funds must be rolled over to a “rollover IRA” and...

Sunday, May 5, 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...

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...

Friday, May 3, 2024

ROLLOVERS AND SUCCESSOR BENEFICIARY RULES: TODAY’S SLOTT REPORT MAILBAG QUESTION: My client is terminating employment and rolling over the funds from his 401(k). He was told that the funds must be rolled over to a “rollover IRA” and...

Friday, May 3, 2024

President Biden’s Budget Calls For Raising $4.3 Trillion in Revenues Over Ten Years — Here’s How The President's budget includes a number of tax proposals that would increase revenues and reduce spending by $4.3 trillion over the next...

Monday, April 29, 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...

Thursday, April 25, 2024

Bitcoin tends to pop in and out of the headlines. Few financial topics in recent memory have sparked as much imagination and criticism. Unsurprisingly, the latest development with Bitcoin has provoked much discussion and curiosity:...

Wednesday, April 24, 2024

TSP Funds Dropping in April New records are being set by the TSP. Here is an update on TSP fund performance and some of the records cited by the TSP in its latest release. New Records for the TSP There were several new highs for the...

Wednesday, April 24, 2024

IRS Waives 2024 RMDs for IRA Beneficiaries Subject to the 10-Year Rule Late Tuesday afternoon (April 16, 2024), the IRS issued Notice 2024-35 which provides relief for 2024 missed required minimum distributions (RMDs) for IRA...

Monday, April 22, 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

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 16, 2024

WHAT IS RETIREMENT? FANTASY VS. REALITY Source: Ed Slott But what is the end game? Why do we wade through the morass of IRS rules and complicated legislation and oftentimes fantastically dry data? It is an overall effort to help people...

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...

Tuesday, April 16, 2024

Let's start this email 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...

Friday, April 12, 2024

WHAT IS RETIREMENT? FANTASY VS. REALITY Source: Ed Slott But what is the end game? Why do we wade through the morass of IRS rules and complicated legislation and oftentimes fantastically dry data? It is an overall effort to help people...

Friday, April 12, 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...

Friday, April 12, 2024

When financial professionals like me start digging into the tools we use to assess financial market valuations, one thing that catches our eye is the U.S. money supply. We look closely at measures like M1 and M2— basically the rock...

Monday, April 8, 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...

Monday, April 8, 2024

This week, I've seen more than a few outlets covering gold's increase in value. Although it's true that the commodity recently reached a record high, it's essential to understand what factors are driving the most recent rally that...

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...

Tuesday, April 2, 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...

Monday, March 25, 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

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...

Friday, March 22, 2024

The Last 5 Years Before You Retire Are Critical: Everything You Should Do Before Time Runs Out Why the last five years before you retire are critical. Retirement can seem like a faraway goal until all of a sudden, it’s not. When you...

Friday, March 22, 2024

HOW SECURE 2.0 IMPACTS COMPANY PLAN IN-SERVICE WITHDRAWALS Retirement plan funds are designed for retirement, but Congress continues to make it easier for employees to pull out those funds while still working. The SECURE 2.0 law adds...

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...

Thursday, March 14, 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....

Wednesday, March 13, 2024

When does the phrase “no hurry” turn into “not in 2024?” During a recent testimony to Congress, Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell reiterated that he expects short-term interest rates to trend lower in 2024....

Sunday, March 10, 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...

Sunday, March 10, 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...

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 a...

Tuesday, March 5, 2024

Owe the IRS Money? Here’s How to Pay If you owe federal taxes, you must pay by the April deadline. Remember, if you get an extension to file your taxes, payment is still due by the April deadline. If you can’t pay the total...

Tuesday, March 5, 2024

What is a Member of Ed Slott's Elite IRA Advisor Group℠?  Please follow the link to view an important video from Ed Slott. https://bit.ly/48N7mgx  Copyright © 2024, Ed Slott and Company, LLC Reprinted from The...

Tuesday, March 5, 2024

10 QUESTIONS TO ASK YOUR FINANCIAL ADVISOR By Marvin Rotenberg, IRA Technical Expert As is our custom at the end of each year, here are 10 questions you MUST ask your financial advisor. This list is a great starting point...

Thursday, February 29, 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...

Wednesday, February 28, 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

Conversation With an Estate Planning Attorney  What Issues Do Families Face When a Loved Ones Passes Away? It's often brought up that the disbursement is unfair. Discrepancies from the past start to come into play that the estate...

Monday, February 26, 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...

Monday, February 26, 2024

Discover the key considerations in choosing Medicare coverage, including costs, coverage rules, doctor choices, and travel coverage, among others. Plus, learn how to protect yourself from the Medicare COVID Test Scam, which involves...

Friday, February 23, 2024

92% OF VOTERS MORE LIKELY TO SUPPORT CANDIDATES BACKING A COMMISSION TO REDUCE THE NATIONAL DEBT  Source: Peter G. Peterson Foundation  As Congress navigates budget deadlines, new polling shows growing momentum and...

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...

Tuesday, February 20, 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...

Saturday, February 17, 2024

Ask an Advisor: How Can Tax Rates Be Higher in Retirement Than Your Earning Years?   Written by Steven Jarvis, CPA I recently attended a retirement seminar at a local community college where the instructor talked about...

Monday, February 12, 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...

Tuesday, February 6, 2024

NEW ROTH PROVISIONS EFFECTIVE IN 2024 Source: Ed Slott ira.help.com When the bell dropped in Times Square last Sunday night, a bunch of new provisions from the SECURE 2.0 legislation kicked in. This article will focus on the...

Monday, February 5, 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...

Wednesday, January 31, 2024

Don't Overlook These New RMD Rules For 2024  Learn about the 2024 guidelines related to required minimum distributions from qualified retirement accounts. Your required minimum distributions, or RMDs, can impact other aspects of...

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...

Monday, January 29, 2024

As Valentine's Day approaches and Spring draws ever nearer, I thought it might be fun to look at the financial side of February 14. Shockingly, the day many consider the most romantic is also a sweet boost to our nation's economy....

Wednesday, January 24, 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...

Monday, January 22, 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...

Tuesday, January 16, 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...

Thursday, January 11, 2024

Your 401k In 2024: New Rules Make It Easier Among the countless headlines last year, little attention was paid to retirement saving. Yet there was some significant news that will make a positive difference going forward. Congress 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...

Tuesday, January 9, 2024

Congressional Leaders Agree On Spending, Key Step To Averting Shutdown  Congressional leaders said they reached an agreement on overall spending levels for the current fiscal year that could help avoid a partial government...

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...

Tuesday, January 2, 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...

Friday, December 29, 2023

Retirement Expert Says Too Many Americans Are Withdrawing From Their 401(K) Accounts: Here’s What To Do Instead  The American dream of a comfortable retirement seems to be slipping away for many as a concerning...

Wednesday, December 27, 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...

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...

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...

Wednesday, December 20, 2023

In economics, there are lead indicators and lag indicators. But often, the coincident indicators–stats that show the current state of the U.S. economy–tell the best stories. The Conference Board reports that a record-high...

Monday, December 18, 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 &...

Monday, December 18, 2023

Season's Greetings! With the holidays nearly here, I recently checked that my gifting was squared away. Luckily, I didn't forget anyone (this year), but as I reviewed my list (and checked it twice), it made me curious how others...

Friday, December 15, 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...

Monday, December 11, 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

Anyone with an interest in financial happenings may have noticed more than a few mentions of “gold" in the news. Sure, some view it as a key asset to hold during periods of market volatility, but that doesn't quite explain the...

Thursday, December 7, 2023

Update your trust, update your peace of mind! If you've already established a trust, make sure it reflects your current wishes and circumstances. Life evolves, and so should your estate plan – guaranteeing that your loved ones...

Thursday, December 7, 2023

Prepare for the unexpected – because life happens. Even if you're young or have a modest estate, a trust/will provides a clear roadmap for your wishes. Don't let your loved ones navigate confusion – secure their future with...

Monday, December 4, 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...

Monday, December 4, 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...

Friday, December 1, 2023

Investing might sound like something that comes later in life, but did you know that even you can start growing your money at your age? It's like planting seeds that turn into giant trees over time. Let's explore why starting early...

Thursday, November 30, 2023

Medicare Open Enrollment is coming to a close, so if you are considering making a change to your plan, it's time to take action. Changes you make during 2023 open enrollment go into effect on January 1, 2024. Here are a few factors...

Monday, November 27, 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...

Monday, November 27, 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...

Wednesday, November 22, 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...

Monday, November 20, 2023

Stocks extended their November rally last week as investors cheered lower-than-forecast inflation data. The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 1.94%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 added 2.24%. The Nasdaq Composite index rose...

Wednesday, November 15, 2023

Please join Carol Schmidlin for live, complimentary webinar. LONG-TERM CARE November is Long Term Care month. I felt this is the opportune time to host a webinar on this very important subject. In this webinar, I'll highlight the...

Tuesday, November 14, 2023

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...

Tuesday, November 14, 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...

Thursday, November 9, 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....

Monday, November 6, 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...

Saturday, November 4, 2023

Social Security, America’s essential public retirement program, is on a path to depletion in less than 10 years. Please click HERE to read more about this important subject. https://bit.ly/3SojkJf

Wednesday, November 1, 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...

Monday, October 30, 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...

Monday, October 30, 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, October 25, 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...

Wednesday, October 25, 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...

Monday, October 23, 2023

Every Year, Medicare’s Open Enrollment Period Is October 15 - December 7 Medicare health and drug plans can make changes each year—things like cost, coverage, and what providers and pharmacies are in their networks....

Monday, October 23, 2023

 Securing tomorrow starts today! 🏛️✨ Having a trust/will in place guarantees your assets are distributed according to your wishes, minimizing family disputes and legal hassles. Provide your loved ones with...

Monday, October 16, 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...

Monday, October 16, 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...

Monday, October 9, 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...

Friday, October 6, 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...

Friday, October 6, 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...

Monday, October 2, 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

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...

Monday, October 2, 2023

After a sharp increase in short-term interest rates, many market participants expected a slowdown in economic growth. In this edition of Economic Outlook, Christian Chan, CFA, Chief Investment Officer of AssetMark, examines growth...

Tuesday, September 26, 2023

Many retirees plan to earn extra income to supplement their retirement spending. But how much can a retired person earn without paying taxes? The answer to this question varies based on your situation. Understanding the tax...

Wednesday, September 20, 2023

Sometimes it makes sense to keep your mortgage in retirement, sometimes it doesn't. Find out what strategy works best for you. Some 44% of homeowners ages 60 to 70 carry a mortgage with them into retirement, according to mortgage...

Monday, September 18, 2023

Sometimes it makes sense to keep your mortgage in retirement, sometimes it doesn't. Find out what strategy works best for you. Some 44% of homeowners ages 60 to 70 carry a mortgage with them into retirement, according to mortgage...

Thursday, September 14, 2023

📢 Attention 📢 Get ready for some market reaction in September due to "headline risk," referring to the possibility of unsettling news events causing volatility in the financial markets. Congress is working on passing a...

Sunday, September 10, 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%....

Sunday, September 10, 2023

Are you already planning for the end of the year? Where did the time go? In this edition, we’ll be looking into navigating Medicare for the first time, particularly if you are under the age of 65. Don’t forget Medicare...

Wednesday, September 6, 2023

In the past ten years, the amount of money held in retail money market funds ebb and flowed. But looking at the chart below, you see something interesting that happened in the last two years. Cash being held in retail money market...

Wednesday, September 6, 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 increased...

Wednesday, August 23, 2023

  MRFC - International Association of Registered Financial Consultants                                           ...

Saturday, August 19, 2023

Baby boomers born from 1960 to 1965 are in big trouble when it comes to retirement savings. The so-called late boomers, nearing retirement, have less wealth than earlier boomer cohorts, according to a new brief published by...

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...

Thursday, August 10, 2023

The current market rally has lasted roughly nine months, about the length of the market's downtrend in 2022. While the Standard & Poor's 500 remains well below the high, the downtrend and the uptrend are starting to look similar. The...

Thursday, August 10, 2023

Don’t be surprised to see a few more volatile days this month as we get updates on inflation and the jobs market–two key economic numbers tracked by the Fed. Also, don’t be surprised to see some market volatility when...

Tuesday, August 8, 2023

Retirement income from defined benefit plans catches a break in these states. | Retirement income comes in all forms, and pension payouts are just one of them. To the federal government, most pension payouts are fully taxable as income...

Friday, August 4, 2023

You could live several decades or longer in retirement; how can you provide for income far into the future? Possible tactics:  Buy an immediate annuity. You can buy such annuities in several forms. They can cover your life...

Wednesday, August 2, 2023

Here are some key insights into the June Consumer Price Index (CPI):    Core CPI, excluding volatile food and energy prices, rose by only 0.16% for the month. This is the lowest reading in over two years, marking a...

Wednesday, August 2, 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 &...

Thursday, July 27, 2023

Roughly every six weeks Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell delivers a report card that rates the economy’s future performance. This comes along with each decision the central bank makes on interest rates. The latest move —...

Wednesday, July 26, 2023

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

Tuesday, July 25, 2023

The accompanying table shows that 98% of investors believe the Fed will raise short-term interest rates from 0.25% to between 5.25% and 5.5% at its July meeting. But after July, the Fed Chair and investors disagreed about what will...

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%,...

Tuesday, June 20, 2023

Summer is traditionally regarded as a sluggish time for U.S. stocks, given the Wall Street adage: “Sell in May and go away.” This year, though, may turn out to be markedly different from past years. One reason is bullish...

Thursday, June 15, 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 13, 2023

When you think of a trust, you may have visions of contentious family gatherings in an attorney’s office after the death of a patriarch or matriarch. And sure, why not add sibling rivalries on par with the Roy family...

Monday, June 12, 2023

A late-week rally sent stocks into positive territory, with the S&P 500 index closing just shy of the 4,300 mark.The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 0.34%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 added 0.39%. The Nasdaq Composite...

Monday, June 12, 2023

All income you receive is taxable unless the rules explicitly state it isn’t. According to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), taxable income includes earned income like wages and any income earned by providing a service or the...

Thursday, June 8, 2023

With summertime fun in full swing and temperatures rising, OPEC+ has announced broad measures to boost flagging oil prices.Saudi Arabia plans to reduce July production to 9 million BPD (barrels per day). That's 1 million less than in...

Tuesday, June 6, 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

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The U.S. is rapidly approaching the deadline for Congress to pass a deal, reached over the weekend by Democratic President Joe Biden and top congressional Republican Kevin McCarthy, to suspend the government's...

Wednesday, May 31, 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?...

Thursday, May 25, 2023

Memorial Day is about honoring the brave service members who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving our country. Every year, I'm reminded of how deeply grateful I am for their courage and humbled by their dedication to securing our...

Wednesday, May 24, 2023

The Baby Boomer generation is reaching retirement age in record numbers. With more Boomers retiring on a daily basis, it helps to understand how prepared they are to leave their jobs for good. In this article, we’ll discuss the...

Wednesday, May 24, 2023

Many Americans see retirement first as a process of saving enough money and, when that goal is met, finally settling into rest and relaxation in their later years.But several challenges often threaten to derail that end game, a new...

Wednesday, May 24, 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 &...

Friday, May 19, 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...

Friday, May 19, 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...

Monday, May 15, 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...

Monday, May 15, 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 12, 2023

The United States has the largest GDP in the world in nominal terms, and urban areas are a major contributor to the country’s economic might. In fact, metropolitan areas account for roughly 90% of U.S. economic output.In this...

Friday, May 12, 2023

The TSP has announced an update to the “My Account” home page portal for account holders to monitor their investments and make transactions, in what it terms as a “response to feedback about what participants prefer...

Wednesday, May 10, 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...

Tuesday, May 9, 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

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...

Friday, May 5, 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...

Monday, May 1, 2023

It’s May 1986. The Cosby Show and Family Ties are the top-rated TV shows. Top Gun starring Tom Cruise and Cobra starring Sylvester Stallone are boffo box office. Addicted to Love by Robert Palmer and Kiss by Prince top the pop...

Monday, May 1, 2023

Strong earnings from several mega-cap technology companies offset renewed regional banking jitters and weak economic data, leaving stocks higher for the week.The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 0.86%, while the Standard &...

Tuesday, April 25, 2023

Last year’s soaring inflation rate contributed to a big dip in retirement savings for millions of Americans, and the problem might not get much better this year unless inflation falls well below current levels...

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 &...

Tuesday, April 25, 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

Friday, April 21, 2023

It’s our mission to provide our clients with a timely market commentary of the prior quarter’s financial market performance, key economic releases, and policy developments.Please see the most recent Quarterly Market Review...

Wednesday, April 19, 2023

If your Social Security benefits are cut, what impact could this have on your retirement portfolio?Over the last few months, there has been a lot of talk around Social Security and the issues with the amount of money within the fund....

Wednesday, April 19, 2023

Highs And Lows of U.S. Cashflow Will Make for A Bumpy Ride, Intensifying The Partisan Stalemate As The Nation Moves Closer To Defaulting On Its $31.4 Trillion In Debt.The U.S. Will Default On Its $31.4 Trillion Debt This Year If...

Tuesday, April 18, 2023

Monday, April 17, 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...

Monday, April 17, 2023

In today's world, having access to cash is an essential part of any financial plan. It gives you the freedom and flexibility to make the most of opportunities that come your way while also providing a safety net for when the unexpected...

Monday, April 17, 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...

Wednesday, April 12, 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...

Monday, April 3, 2023

Stocks rallied last week on receding fears of a widening banking crisis, led by resurging investor interest in technology and communication services names.The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 3.22%, while the Standard & Poor’s...

Monday, April 3, 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...

Friday, March 31, 2023

It can be pretty easy to find things to worry about in today's economy. For example, according to the Consumer Price Index (CPI), the average price of eggs increased by 60 percent in 2022. That means their price rose faster than almost...

Wednesday, March 29, 2023

t's natural to wonder exactly how a bank safeguards your money. Fortunately, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) insurance exists for this very reason: to help protect your funds once deposited. Read on to explore the...

Tuesday, March 28, 2023

President Joe Biden’s order that federal employees get vaccinated against COVID-19 has been blocked by a federal appeals court.The 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in New Orleans, in a decision Thursday, rejected...

Tuesday, March 28, 2023

Jerome Powell is a man of his word. And the financial markets believe that's an excellent trait for the Federal Reserve Chairman.Powell told the financial markets to prepare for a 25 basis points increase in short-term rates in early...

Thursday, March 23, 2023

Kurt Czarnowski is currently the principal in “Czarnowski Consulting,” a retirement planning firm which in now in its 12th year of providing “Expert Answers to Your Social Security Questions. He is the former Regional...

Thursday, March 23, 2023

With so much of our lives spent online, it’s sad to think of losing the important stuff. Pictures of your kids and grandkids; Personal items like cherished emails, texts, and voicemails from loved ones; Or the notes for that book...

Wednesday, March 22, 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...

Wednesday, March 22, 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...

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:...

Monday, March 13, 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...

Thursday, March 9, 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...

Tuesday, March 7, 2023

FSI Advocates for Main Street Americans’ Access to Objective, Affordable Financial AdviceCarol Schmidlin of Franklin Planning LLC announced she has renewed membership with the Financial Services Institute (FSI) in Washington, D.C...

Monday, March 6, 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...

Monday, February 27, 2023

Concerns over a firmer monetary policy were heightened by fresh economic data, touching off a climb in bond yields and a slide in stock prices last week.The Dow Jones Industrial Average skidded 2.99%, while the Standard & Poor’s...

Monday, February 27, 2023

Tuesday, February 21, 2023

Growing concerns about further interest rate hikes, prompted by fresh economic data, reversed early-week gains and left stocks mixed for the week.The Dow Jones Industrial Average slipped 0.13%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500...

Tuesday, February 21, 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...

Thursday, February 16, 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...

Thursday, February 16, 2023

Would it surprise you that the U.K. stock market is hitting new all-time highs and several other European markets are either at new highs or approaching new all-time highs?It seems like only a few months ago, European economies...

Wednesday, February 15, 2023

Required minimum distributions (RMDs) have been in the financial/investing news a lot over the last several years.  RMDs came into being when Individual Retirement Arrangements (IRAs) were introduced back in 1974.  Their...

Monday, February 13, 2023

Stocks drifted lower as a week of mixed earnings reports and resurgent worries over Fed monetary policy dragged on investor sentiment. The Dow Jones Industrial Average slipped 0.17%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 declined...

Monday, February 13, 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...

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,...

Friday, February 10, 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...

Tuesday, February 7, 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...

Tuesday, February 7, 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,...

Sunday, February 5, 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,...

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...

Monday, January 30, 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...

Monday, January 30, 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...

Monday, January 23, 2023

Stocks showed mixed results last week as recession fears resurfaced in response to weak economic data and a tepid start to a new corporate earnings season.  The Dow Jones Industrial Average skidded 2.70%, while the Standard &...

Monday, January 23, 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...

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...

Wednesday, January 18, 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 12, 2023

Have you enrolled in Medicare, or are you considering it? If so, you should know that anyone who receives Medicare is eligible to receive Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage.However, if you don’t enroll for that coverage...

Tuesday, January 10, 2023

It’s our mission to provide our clients with a timely market commentary of the prior quarter’s financial market performance, key economic releases, and policy developments.Please see the most recent Quarterly Market Review...

Tuesday, January 10, 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...

Thursday, January 5, 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...

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...