Explore perspectives from our team on financial planning, investing, taxes, retirement, and other topics that can help you make informed decisions about your financial life.
Losing a spouse is one of life's most difficult transitions. Beyond the emotional impact, it can bring significant changes to your financial situation, even when you've spent years planning for retirement together.…
Interest rates are back in the headlines. In September, the Federal Reserve raised the target range for the federal funds rate by a quarter of a percentage point, bringing it to 3.75%–4.00%. But what does that actu…
When you leave a job, one important financial decision is what to do with your 401(k) or other employer-sponsored plan. The answer isn’t always straightforward. Taxes, investment options, fees, withdrawal rules, em…
Since the Great Recession ended in June 2009, the United States has experienced only one official recession. That downturn, caused by the pandemic, lasted just two months; the shortest recession in t…
Many retirees and pre-retirees wonder whether a Roth conversion could improve their long-term financial situation. While Roth conversions can create valuable planning opportunities, they also create immediate tax conse…
The Magnificent Seven—Alphabet, Amazon, Apple, Meta, Microsoft, Nvidia, and Tesla—have dominated U.S. market returns in recent years. Their success caused many investors to question why they should own smaller com…
Many people spend years saving for retirement, but far fewer spend time planning how they will withdraw those savings and understanding the tax implications of those decisions. Retirement tax planning is the process of s…
The debate over real estate vs. stocks has been going on for decades. A May 2025 Gallup survey found that 37% of Americans believe real estate is the best long-term investment — more than double the percentage who…
Financial planning is often discussed in broad, national terms. You’ll hear general rules about taxes, retirement, investing, and spending that are meant to apply to everyone. But in practice, where you live c…
With ongoing concerns around inflation, interest rates, and geopolitical events, gold and silver have attracted renewed investor attention over the past several years. But before adding precious metals…
With the April 15th tax deadline behind us, many people are ready to move on. But from a financial planning perspective, this is often one of the most valuable times of the year to pause, reflect, and plan ahea…
Why Personalized Financial Advice Still Matters in the Age of AI Artificial intelligence is changing how people access financial information. Today, it is possible to generate what looks like a comp…
Investing during uncertain times can feel uncomfortable for many investors. Markets move quickly. Technology reshapes industries overnight. Geopolitical events ripple across the global economy. And the news…
Concerns about the U.S. dollar usually fall into two categories. One reflects normal currency cycles. The other reflects fear of a true currency crisis. They are different concerns, but they can be un…
When people think about working with a financial advisor, investments often come to mind first. For many years, that made sense, especially as access to markets and portfolio construction were central to the advisor…
DIY investing is everywhere. With commission-free trading, easy-to-use apps and endless financial content online, many believe that managing a portfolio is fairly simple and straightforward; buy some basic index fun…
U.S. stocks rose 17.15% in 2025, marking another solid year—but this time, it was international and emerging markets that led the way. Developed markets returned 31.85%, and emerging markets surged 33.57%, sign…
Artificial intelligence is transforming industries from healthcare and logistics to legal services and finance. Wealth management is no exception and it is natural to wonder if algorithms will actually be able to repl…
Every year, the pace of the holiday season seems to accelerate. Calendars fill quickly, inboxes overflow with promotions and we find ourselves buying, wrapping and rushing our way into the new year. For many, spendi…
Retirement and savings account contribution limits are rising for 2026, alongside a new rule affecting how higher-earning workers make catch-up contributions. The chart below summarizes the 2025-2026 contribu…
With the holiday season upon us, it is a good time to take stock of your overall financial picture and consider strategies that may help you prepare for the year ahead. The passage…
When you hire a financial advisor , you’re trusting them to help you make informed decisions that shape your long-term financial future. But how can you be confident that your advisor has the knowledge and exp…
The One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) introduced a new savings vehicle aimed at helping families build long-term financial security for their children: the “Trump Account.” Wh…
When it comes to maximizing tax-advantaged retirement savings, high earners often encounter barriers—contribution caps, income thresholds, and limited access to Roth accoun…
One of President Trump’s campaign promises during the 2024 election cycle was to eliminate taxes on Social Security benefits. While the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBB) does…
College tuition continues to rise in the US, placing a growing financial burden on families – even those with solid savings plans. In addition to tuition, after considering room, board, activity fees and books, it has…
The One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) introduces a host of tax changes beginning in 2025. While some provisions are temporary and others phased in, the…
When people first reach out to us, they usually don’t come armed with spreadsheets or perfectly formed financial goals. More often, they come with questions—uncertainties, assumptions, and a desire for clarity. That’s…
If you only looked at where markets ended in June, it might appear to have been a relatively non-eventful quarter. Stocks finished higher, bonds posted modest gains, and balanced portfolios delivered healthy retur…
A financial windfall can be life-changing—whether it arrives from an inheritance, a business sale, an unexpected bonus, or a legal settlement. Yet, the thrill of new wealth can quickly become overwhelming and give way t…
When it comes to building long-term wealth, a solid, evidence-based investment strategy is one of the best ways to put the odds of long-term investment success on your side. Layering tax-efficiency on top of this…
Estate planning is not just about legal documents and asset distribution—it’s a vital component of a comprehensive financial plan . And while the topic may feel sensitive or even uncomfortable, open communication with yo…
About fifteen years ago, as markets began recovering from the Great Recession, someone remarked, “The market wouldn’t have recovered if the government hadn’t stepped in with those bailouts.” We saw this dynamic aga…
When it comes to building long-term, tax-efficient savings, a Roth IRA is an attractive tool. But for high earners, income limits often get in the way. Fortunately, even if you don’t qualify to contribute directly, you m…
If we were to simply post first quarter numbers, the picture would suggest a fairly typical quarter: U.S. stocks down modestly, international stocks up, and bonds doing their job. Global asset class returns throu…
As an entrepreneur, the line between your business finances and personal finances can often blur. It’s easy to see why: as a business owner, you wear many hats and frequently juggle multiple responsibilities. However,…
Market volatility can feel unsettling—especially when headlines are dominated by looming tariffs, rising interest rates, inflation concerns, recession fears, political division, and global conflict. But while the specif…
As you plan for retirement, one source of income you might rely on is Social Security. Social Security has been a cornerstone of retirement income for millions of Americans. Still, demographic shifts, political debates…
Social Security has been a major topic in the news, especially as the new administration considers potential changes to benefits. Naturally, this raises a lot of questions: Is Social Security secure? Will my bene…
For many individuals, managing their financial life involves navigating a maze of overlapping concerns, with taxes often at the center. Have you ever asked your advisor questions such as: “How will selling thi…
Building a comprehensive financial plan requires more than just one area of expertise. Whether you’re focused on growing your wealth, managing tax obligations, or reaching long-term financial goals, having a mu…
U.S. stocks rose 24% in 2024, marking a second straight year of strong gains, fueled by optimism around technological advancements and a more accommodative Federal Reserve. Meanwhile, stocks outside the U.S. de…
A quarterback leading their team on the field is much like a financial advisor guiding a client on their financial journey—both require strategy, precision, and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances. Every f…
As tax season approaches, many seek the expertise of a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or Enrolled Agent (EA) to navigate the perplexing labyrinth of filing and compliance. However,…
With the holiday season upon us, many of us find ourselves seeking the perfect gift for loved ones, choosing thoughtful tokens for colleagues and teachers, and delighting children with the season’s hottest new…
If you’ve recently lost your spouse and either inherited IRA assets and/or have substantial IRA assets of your own, it may be worth considering a ROTH conversion in the year of their passing to help reduce fut…
With the Thanksgiving holiday in the rear-view mirror and the holidays fast approaching, it is a perfect time to review your financial situation. This includes capitalizing on potenti…
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has announced the new contribution limits for retirement plans for 2025. 401(k), 403(b), 457 Plans, and Thrift Savings Plans : Workers will now be able to elect up to $23,50…
Expecting an Inheritance? It’s Time to Talk to a Fee-Only Financial Advisor An inheritance has the potential to significantly impact your financial future. This sudden influx of wealth can be life-changing and overw…
In the fall of 2022, surging interest rates—driven by the Federal Reserve’s aggressive efforts to combat inflation—caused significant turbulence in both stock and bond markets, leading to declines across many…
When people think about financial planning, investing often comes to mind first, and for good reason. After all, a well-managed portfolio can generate returns that grow wealth over time. But if you only focus…
What is a Fee-Only Financial Advisor? How your financial advisor is paid can tell you a lot about whether his or her financial interests are well-aligned with yours. A fee-only financial advisor is compensated solely…
Fee-Only vs. Commission-Based Advisors: Why it Matters How your financial advisor is paid can tell you a lot about whether their financial interests are well-aligned with yours. To help you make an informed choice, h…
As the U.S. election on November 5th approaches, uncertainty about what lies ahead is on the rise—particularly regarding how global markets might respond. While media coverage will likely emphasize potential vo…
When someone is looking for a financial advisor, they may hear from friends, talk show hosts, or newspaper columnists recommending a NAPFA advisor. However, most people do not know w…
Earlier this year, the IRS provided long-awaited guidance related to the SECURE Act of 2019 on the treatment of retirement accounts inherited after December 31, 2019. The rul…
West Palm Beach, Florida, with its luxurious lifestyle and favorable tax environment, has become a preferred destination for high-net-worth families seeking to establish and preserve their legacies. The unique legal and financial …
West Palm Beach, Florida, with its stunning beaches, luxurious lifestyle, and vibrant economy, has become a haven for high-net-worth individuals seeking to grow and preserve their wealth. The unique economic landscape of this coas…
West Palm Beach and its surrounding areas have long been a magnet for high-net-worth individuals seeking to enjoy their retirement years in comfort and style. As a premier destination for retirees, Florida offers both unique advan…
There are many approaches when it comes to investing. At one end of the spectrum is passive investing. Passive investors believe that because markets are basically efficient, it is extremely difficult to outper…
How Today’s Women are Taking Charge of their Financial Well-Being The concept of women and money has undergone significant transformations over the years. Many female baby boomers, who often filled traditional roles in…
One of the key investment principles we emphasize at Core Wealth Management is that investing solely in US large company stocks does not provide sufficient diversification. True diversification requires spreading…
By strategically managing your tax payments, both in amount and timing, you can significantly enhance your chances of achieving your financial goals. This is why tax planning is such an integral part of financial…
Navigating Florida’s Unique Tax Environment for High-Net-Worth Individuals Florida has long been a magnet for high-net-worth individuals, thanks in large part to its favorable tax climate. As a wealth manager in the Jupiter/West P…
While tax preparation and tax planning are both critical components of managing your financial health, they serve distinctly different purposes. It’s esse…
We are in the midst of graduation season. While I do not have a graduate this year, I have been reading and listening to commencement addresses; renowned speakers offering insight to students as they get ready…
For many, social security income, in conjunction with pension income and investment portfolio withdrawals, is relied upon to meet cash needs in retirement. For several years now, there has been concern that the social se…
If you follow the financial news, the term fiduciary has come up repeatedly over the last several weeks, primarily due to the Department of Labor announcing a rule mandating that financial advisors put client’s best in…
The excitement of the NCAA basketball tournament, famously known as “March Madness,” is in full swing, and I’ve been eagerly tuning in. This annual event is my must-see sporting occasion of the year, holding my a…
Baby boomers, the generation born between 1946 and 1964, are currently between the ages of 60-78. Most are retired or contemplating retirement. There are several planning considerations…
A Fee-Only, Fiduciary Advisor that Puts the Client First When seeking a financial advisor, you might come across recommendations from friends, podcasts, or online forums to look for a NAPFA advisor. But wh…
Despite rising mortgage rates, real estate prices in Florida continue to climb, leaving many Florida homeowners feeling trapped in their current homes. As real estate prices increase, so do property taxes. Ho…
Many had predicted that 2023 would be an extremely difficult year for the financial markets, but instead, both the stock and bond markets demonstrated remarkable resilience adapting to the new realities of higher int…
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has announced the new contribution limits for retirement plans for 2024. Workers will now be able to elect for up to $23,000 of salary deferrals to 401(k) plans, 403(b) pla…
The end of the third quarter of 2023 brought some challenges in the financial markets. The S&P 500 fell -4.9% in September and the MSCI All Country World index dropped -5.08% for the…
Understanding the Federal gift tax is essential for sound financial planning. This article aims to explain key concepts, debunk some common misconcep…
Qualified tuition plans, more commonly known as “529 accounts,” are tax-advantaged savings accounts designed to help families save for future education expenses. These accounts are named after…
Deciding to retire during market volatility can be a tough call. Do you stick it out for another year, or take the plunge? Even with a well-diversified global portf…
The debt ceiling debate is dominating the headlines. In a nutshell, the debt ceiling is a limit that is set by the U.S. Congress on the total amount of debt that the Federal government…
Choosing a financial advisor is an important decision, as he or she will play a critical role in helping you achieve both your personal and financial goals. When considering a fee-only financial advisor, there are a few k…
In light of the recent banking crises involving Silicon Valley Bank (SVB), Signature Bank, and the takeover of First Republic Bank by JPMorgan Chase, US policymakers have shown their commitment to…
In Q1 of 2023, global stocks gained nearly 7% in the first quarter, continuing the upward momentum that we saw in Q4 of 2022. Bonds also posted healthy…
There are several provisions in Secure Act 2.0 that relate to ROTH IRAs and ROTH accounts within workplace retirement plans. For those who are saving, it is important to be aware of these new provisions and understa…
Those who reach age 72 in 2023 or beyond now have more time to opportunistically take distributions from their tax-deferred accounts in efforts to minimize their tax liability over their retir…
Has your RMD start date been delayed as part of the Secure Act 2.0? The retirement planning landscape has undergone significant changes since Congress was pressed to take action as a result of the impact COVID-19 had on…
As we embark on a new year, especially after coming off one that was challenging in so many ways (especially from a financial perspective), it is a great time to take a step back and assess yo…
The rapid collapse and subsequent bankruptcy of FTX, a Bahamas-based cryptocurrency exchange, has consumed mainstream media outlets since mid-November. Many people, both professionals, and next-d…
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has taken notice of the rise of inflation and has adapted by increasing the contribution limits to company retirement plans. Below is a chart showing how much a…
Inflation has taken a huge toll on Americans and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has taken steps to adapt to the increase. Starting in 2023, the IRS will allow you to contribute more than ever…
What is an I-Bond? US Treasury Series I-Bonds (I-Bonds) are inflation-adjusted savings bonds. Interest compounds every six months (May and November), and the rates are also reassessed at that tim…
As the market accepted the reality of higher interest rates, a likely recession, and heightened uncertainty, both equity and bond markets continued their decline. Below ar…
With inflation and recession fears dominating headlines, both stocks and bonds continued their fall in the second quarter of 2022. At times, it useful to put short term marke…
The Long Term Outlook for Inflation Core Wealth Management Abacoa Jupiter Florida Earlier this month, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics announced that the Consumer Price I…
As the global pandemic extended into 2021, the markets continued the remarkable run that began the third week of March 2020. Since that time, US large company stocks, as measured by t…
Florida residents can file for a homestead exemption on their primary residence as a means to reduce property taxes. What is the Florida Homestead Exemption? By filing for the Homestead Exemption, it can result in e…
When it comes to determining how to allocate your savings, what is the difference between investing and speculating? Investing is characterized by: Productive capacity: An investment involves deploying capital…
On August 31, 2021, the Social Security Board of Trustees released its annual report, which included the latest projection for the Old-Age and Sur…
The annual change in the Consumer Price Index “CPI” exceeded more than 5% for the second month in a row, raising concern that we may be entering an inflationary period. How c…
With interest rates on saving accounts once again at rock bottom levels, some savers are looking for alternatives. But in the context of a long-term financial plan, does it r…
A question we have been asked repeatedly over the last six months has been: what is the best strategy to get into the market with new money? Invest all of it at once? Or invest in smaller increments over time…
A global pandemic, a severe and abrupt recession, and civil unrest made 2020 a truly tumultuous and unprecedented year. But perhaps the real story of 2020 is one of resilience – the re…
As we approach the end of the year, it is prudent to review your situation and make sure that you have taken advantage of all that you can from a financial planning standpoint before December 31 st…
A Roth IRA is perhaps the most tax-friendly asset that an heir can inherit. However, the rules regarding distributions can be somewhat complicated. The Q&A below provides a brief overview of the ru…
As explained in our article on “ How to Evaluate a Mortgage Refinance ”, the decision to refinance comes down to evaluating the benefit of the interest savings against the costs of the refi. A tradi…
With interest rates at historic lows, many homeowners are considering refinancing their current mortgage. But making the decision to refinance or not can be t…
With election time now getting closer, we are inundated with opinions and prognostications about not only who will win but what that victory will mean for the markets. When you coup…
Relationship Your advisor’s sole, continuous duty across your entire relationship should be to advance your highest financial interests (even ahead of their own) as a FIDUCIARY . Primary Role Your advisor should under…
The terms “stock market” and “economy” are often used interchangeably, but they are not one in the same. Perhaps this has never been more evident than over the past several m…
Beginning at the end of 2019 with the passage of the SECURE Act and then continuing with the CARES Act which was passed in response to COVID-19, there are important provisions that those with 529 plans a…
Given the current economic environment where companies are laying off workers and, in some cases, going out of the business, the implications for employer-sponsored retirement plans are significant. Unfortuna…
After a surprisingly strong year for stocks in 2019, the new decade got off to a rough start for investors with one of the most abrupt and rapid stock market declines on rec…
There are several provisions in the CARES Act, which was signed into law on March 27, 2020, that provide flexibility to retirement account owners. In a previous blog post, w…
Included in the CARES Act, which was signed into law on Friday, March 27 th , 2020, are provisions related to tax-deferred retirement plans/IRAs and minimum distribution requirements for 2020. Specifically,…
At my core, I am a financial planner. Some may call me a money manager, or an investment advisor or a wealth manager….all terms that could apply, depending on your definition. But, I see myself as a financi…
Global markets closed on Monday approximately 30% off of the highs reached just one month ago. The sell-off has been dramatic and breathtakingly swift. We have been getting…
Fueled by fears related to the Coronavirus and compounded by a drop in oil prices, the US stock market has exhibited extreme volatility over the past several weeks. While do…
Over the last several weeks, the coronavirus has grabbed global headlines. So far, U.S. markets have remained relatively immune. But should you try to dodge markets that have been exposed? The answer to…
On Friday, December 20, 2019, the Setting Every Community Up for Retirement Enhancement (SECURE) Act was signed into law. The broad intent of the legislation is to make it easier for families to sav…
After a down year in 2018, the outlook for stocks in 2019 was not positive. The markets had experienced an abrupt decline in the last quarter of 2018, and many thought the…
The Social Security Administration has announced the following changes for the coming year. For those who are collecting benefits, benefit amounts will increase by 1.6% as a cost of living adjustment. Th…
Annual contribution limits for retirement savings accounts for 2019 and 2020, as established by the IRS, are listed below. Please keep in mind that contributions to Traditional IRAs, Roth IRAs, and SEP I…
In most aspects of our lives, taking action serves us well. We are conditioned from a young age to believe that if we want to succeed at any endeavor – climbing the corporate ladder, excelling at a sport, being a gre…
Reprinted with permission from Schanel and Associates, CPA. www.schanelcpa.com . Original Post: October 04, 2019 When an investor sells a stock or mutual fund that produces a loss, this capital loss…
As the markets continue to move up and down and as the media continues to have a field day playing with our emotions, it is no wonder that many investors find themselves…
An integral component of a financial plan is making sure that you have adequate cash reserves set aside. But exactly how much is enough? Cash in the bank has several purposes: (1) to fund living expenses;…
When looking for a place to stash your emergency reserves, a visit to bankrate.com is probably your best bet. The popular site provides an up to date list of the banks that are currently paying the h…
A central tenet of our investment philosophy is diversification. Furthermore, we advocate for “real diversification”, which means owning thousands of stocks in companies of all sizes (large and small),…
In 1906, statistician Francis Galton attended a livestock fair where villagers were invited to guess the weight of an ox. No villager successfully guessed the correct weight, but Galton noticed that th…
In Part 1 of this series, a brief list of the advantages and disadvantages of investing in publicly traded equities vs. direct real estate was provided. In this article, I will try to more directly ans…
Some investors choose to invest their savings in stocks while other others favor investing in directly real estate. Below is a brief list of the advantages and disadvantages of each. Advantages of Direc…
We all know that risk and return go hand-in-hand. As investors , we are encouraged to think about how much risk we can/want to assume and then build a portfolio that reflects our risk tolerance and objectives…
Stock prices change as new information becomes available. It’s not surprising that many investors believe that it is crucial to follow financial news carefully and then act quic…
Doctors write prescriptions. Auto mechanics perform tune-ups. Lawyers prepare briefs. Financial advisors help you manage your money. Ultimately, it’s that simple. But like a…
In the hierarchy of tax-preferenced savings vehicles , the Health Savings Account (HSA) sits at the top. Unlike an IRA or 401K, an HSA offers a triple tax benefit: contribut…
As I discussed in a previous article , Dimensional and Vanguard are similar but are different in some key respects. While neither fund family relies on forecasting or individual security analysis, Van…
Through a Donor Advised Fund (DAF), a donor can make a charitable contribution, get an upfront tax deduction, and then recommend what charities to support and when. Funds can be distributed immediately or ove…
Vanguard and Dimensional Fund Advisors (Dimensional) both offer mutual funds that provide investors with broad exposure to various asset classes at a very low cost. However, there are important dif…
In the past, when it came to income taxes , people who were charitably inclined could make charitable gifts to reduce their taxable income. While that opportunity is still available under the new tax law,…
2018 was an unusual year. On the one hand, the US economy posted perhaps its best year since the global financial crisis of 2008: worker productivity surged, wage growth a…
I had a discussion with someone about the recent stock market decline and he observed that despite the drop in stock prices, corporations seemed to be healthy and were still making lots of profits.…
As a financial planner , I am always intrigued by the behaviors regarding money that I routinely witness during this time of the year. As soon as the Thanksgiving dinner is cleared from the table (someti…
The “yield curve” is a term that is used frequently when discussing the state of the economy. But what is a yield curve to begin with, and what does it have to do with you…
Interest rates and bonds prices are inversely related; when interest rates rise, the value of a bond falls. Given that rates on US Treasury Bonds have climbed to levels we have not seen since 2011,…
Annual contribution limits for retirement savings accounts for 2018 and 2019, as established by the IRS, are listed below. Please keep in mind that contributions to Traditional IRAs, Roth IRAs, and SEP IRA…
Most of us have heard of asset allocation – the process of dividing a portfolio’s assets across various parts of the market according to an investment plan that takes into account an investors goals…
If you have ever met with a financial advisor , it is likely that they have several letters after their name. As a consumer, it is important to understand exactly what the…
When you deposit money into a bank account, the bank uses those funds to make loans. In the unlikely event that too many loans go bad or the banks become insolvent, the FDIC (Federal Deposit Insurance C…
As a financial planner , one of the topics that I always bring up with my clients, although most of them don’t like to discuss it, is estate planning. Estate planning is relevant for everyone, no matter…
When helping people plan for their financial future, the overriding principle that governs the advice we give is to “control what we can.”, and one of the things we have t…
We all know that to receive a return on your investment, first you must invest and then, you must stay invested. Investing 101 teaches us that risk and return are related – to earn returns, you must put yo…
As an investor, it’s perfectly natural to ask, how are my investments doing? Most people look at their account values and if they are up, they are happy and if they are down,…
One of the major changes that were made to the tax code by the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 was the expansion of the Standard Deduction to $12,000 for individuals and $24,000 for married couples. This…
One of the major changes resulting from the passage of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act was the elimination of all miscellaneous itemized deductions. This category of deductions included unreimbursed job expe…
As you may recall, under the Obama administration, the Department of Labor passed the Fiduciary Rule which addressed the standard of care that an advisor has to their clients in regard to retirement plan acc…
In the video When Should You Begin Collecting Social Security Benefits , we’ve discussed considerations to take account when determining when to begin collecting social securi…
It’s been approximately a decade since the Great Recession began. By year-end 2008, the Fed had lowered the target federal funds rate to almost zero and embarked on an aggressive quantitative easing campaign.…
Your investment portfolio is most likely comprised of different types of investments , balanced in such a way that takes into consideration both your overall return objectives…
When someone is looking for a financial advisor, they may hear from friends, talk show hosts or newspaper columnists to find a NAPFA advisor. However, most people do not even know what NAPFA stands for let…
Over the past few weeks, markets have been experiencing more volatility than what so many have come to expect as the norm and what has characterized the markets over the past several years. It is ironic bec…
When a prospective client over the age of 55 calls my office , more times than not, it is someone who is thinking about retirement. He or she has been working for many years, has accumulated some significant assets, ma…
A 401k plan can be a wonderful savings vehicle, but many employees don’t know how to navigate the plan to maximize the benefits it can offer in retirement. Contribution levels, matching opportunities, investm…
As a fiduciary advisor, you might already be able to guess what our take is on current market news: Unless your personal goals have changed, stay the course according to your personal plan. Still, it never…
At the beginning of 2017, a common view among money managers and analysts was that the financial markets would not repeat their strong returns from 2016. Many cited the un…
We begin 2018 with boundless optimism – the possibilities and opportunities for what the New Year may bring are endless. We have ambitions and dreams that we hope to realize (or at least get closer to mak…
Whether the market is in a bit of turmoil or when it has been performing quite well, it’s important to revisit some of the common behavioral mistakes that can potentially derail even the most well…
By now, you’ve probably heard the news: our own behavioral biases are often the greatest threat to our financial well-being. As investors, we leap before we look. We stay when we should go. We crin…
As soon as the Thanksgiving dinner is cleared from the table (sometimes even before), conversations center around the holidays – the perfect gift for your spouse, tokens to remember colleagues and teache…
A 401k plan can be a wonderful benefit to offer employees as well as a great way for a business owner to reduce taxes. Unfortunately, many plans are too complicated, too costly, and offer little to…
With Hurricane Irma now in the rearview mirror, I can gratefully say how lucky we were. My home sustained minimal damage and we thankfully never even lost power. However, we had no internet, we had no cable…
Offering a 401K plan can be a great benefit for both the owner of a business and its employees. But a 401K requires time, money and some human resource acumen to set up and maintain. In addition, offe…
The way in which we respond and react to events that unfold in our daily lives are often the result of our past experiences. This is especially true when it comes to money. Whether you grew up in an aff…
Many people mistakenly believe that investment management is simply selecting the investment or combination of investments that will generate the highest yield or highest…
The purpose of social security is to replace a portion of the income you earned over your life once you are retired. How exactly your social security benefit amount is calculated is dependent upon several…
Whether it’s sudden and unexpected, the culmination of a lengthy illness or merely the result of old-age and the normal cycle of life, there’s nothing that can prepare you for losing your spouse. Grief and…
The 12 month period ending 6/30/2017 marked the first time in about five years that non-US stocks performed better than US stocks on a trailing 12 month basis. Regardless of recent performance, investi…
“When you know better, you do better.” These words, famously spoken by Maya Angelou, suggest that the more knowledge we have, the better we can do for ourselves. If we know something is bad for us, we will a…
When you hear the word “diversification” in the context of investing, one thinks of owning multiple holdings across asset classes, geographical locations, and industry sectors. The concept of diversification a…
Warren Buffett’s annual Berkshire Hathaway shareholder letters often offer sage advice. His most recent 2016 letter was no exception, including this powerful insight about market downturns: “During such scary…
Setting goals are important. It gives you something to work towards. But there is a huge misconception about goals that most people don’t figure out until it is too late. Achievement of your goal will not br…
There has been a lot of press over the last year regarding the Department of Labor Fiduciary Rule. The Ruling centers on the type of a responsibility a financial advisor has to his or her clients: a fiduciary standard (m…
A little while back I began jotting down some of the rules that I try and live by when it comes to personal finance. Eventually, I turned it into what you see below, something I’m calling a personal finance vision…
Financial advisor, financial planner, financial consultant, wealth manager, etc. – there are many names used by investment professionals today. But what’s more important than the title that a professional gives him or her…
While there is no official definition, a bear market has traditionally been defined as a 20% decline in a broad stock market index. Since the end of World War II, we have had 13 bear markets, with an average decl…
When it comes to applying for college, much time, money and energy is focused on getting our children and grandchildren into the best schools possible. Test preparation, tutors, college guidance counselors, summer progr…
You probably have heard that the Dow Jones Industrial Average topped 20,000 for the first time on January 25, 2017. When a popular index, like the Dow is on a tear, up or down, what does it really mean to you and yo…
You have gotten this far without the help of an advisor or maybe you have had advisors in the past who have not met your expectations. But now, you are about to retire – things are going to change. Do you need a fin…
As much as we would prefer a world where doctors could focus exclusively on addressing our health care questions strictly according to our highest interests, we know that reality is l…
Would you rather have a guaranteed $10,000 today, or the opportunity to earn anywhere from $5000 to $20,000 over the next twelve months? Are you willing to risk a sure thing for the opportunity for more? Your answer…
It’s hard to think all the way back to January 2016, but the year began with a bit of a shock when US stocks had their worst start in history. Then came the Brexit vote in June, when…
Now that the election is behind us, it is safe to say that Trump’s victory was unexpected. Just like the Brexit vote back in June, his victory raised more questions than it answered. It has created an atmosphere of…
An Investment Policy Statement (IPS) is a document designed to establish a clear understanding between an Investor and an Advisor as to the goals and management policies applicable to the Investor’s investment portf…
Evidence suggests that one’s ability and willingness to save is the greatest predictor of long-term wealth and ultimate financial independence. Therefore, it is never too early to teach your children to save. Now,…
Annuities are complicated products that often cause much confusion for annuity owners, let alone their beneficiaries. There can be significant tax consequences associated with the inheritance of an annuity held in…
No matter the age of your children, whether they are toddlers or even adults themselves, being a parent is not easy. Neither is being an investor. Ironically, the rules for succeeding at both – parenting and investing…
Let’s face it, much of the traditional financial services industry has failed to serve investors properly. A sales-driven culture and an active-management investment model has left investors frustrated and wonderi…
An investment portfolio with a mix of stocks and bonds will produce three types of investment return: interest, dividends and capital gains. Added together, they make up what is known as “total return”. Inside an…
As financial advisors, people rely on us to provide direction regarding their financial well-being. Confusion can arise when the advice that we offer is not consistent with the news headlines, the “promising” strategies…
For those you who are on Medicare or who will be eligible for Medicare in 2017, the costs of Part B premiums may be substantially higher than they were in 2016. The issue, which also arose in 2015 and affected 2016 Medi…
This summer already is destined to deliver plenty of uncertain outcomes. On the political front, there are the especially stark contrasts found among the US presidential candidates. For better or worse, whichever candida…
Last night, I was sitting at my 10-year old son’s little league playoff game. It was the last inning – bottom of the 6th – and we were up 5-2 with 2 outs and a full count on the batter. Our pitcher threw a curveball that…
PATIENCE, n. A quality apparent among such lower life forms as snails and tortoises but rarely among humans who invest in financial assets. [Jason Zweig, The Devil’s Financial Dictionar…
Investors seem to love dividend paying stocks. The appeal of these stocks rests largely on the idea that a dividend paying stock allows an investor to collect income while leaving the p…
In today’s climate of one-page financial plans, bargain-basement fund pricing, automated investment tools, and pundits inundating you with their “expert opinions”, it seems like “adv…
When it comes to investing, we can often be our own worst enemy. That is because oftentimes, we allow our emotions to impact our behavior. Our emotions are fueled by what we read and…
The Wall Street Journal’s Jason Zweig offers a humorous, cynical and insightful look into the financial industry and the world of investing in his new book The Devil’s Financial Dictionary . As described by TIM…
The financial press had a field day with headlines in 2015. In the fourth quarter alone, we were greeted with news stories about plummeting oil prices, a sharp slowdown in China, and…
Annual contribution limits for retirement savings accounts for 2015 and 2016, as established by the IRS, are listed below. Please keep in mind that contributions to Traditional IRAs, Roth IRAs, and SEP IRAs can be ma…
On December 18th, Congress and the President once again agreed to a deal on the tax “extenders” that had expired at the end of 2014 in a piece of legislation called the Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes (PATH…
The 2016 budget bill signed into law by President Obama on November 1st, 2015 included several changes to how social security benefits can be claimed. First, let’s review some of the…
Whenever the market is in a bit of turmoil, it’s important to revisit some of the common behavioral mistakes that can potentially derail even the most well thought out financial plans. Below I discuss six mista…
The quarter three numbers are in, and the S&P 500 index finished down just over 6%, while non-US markets finished down more than 10%. The end of August was particularly bumpy, when amidst of headlines of a Chin…
Index fund investing is as popular as ever. In 2014, Vanguard alone recorded record mutual fund inflows totaling $216 billion. Investors are catching on to the benefits of index and othe…
High earners who would otherwise be excluded from contributing to a Roth IRA may want to consider this strategy. If ever there were a tax-efficient saving vehicle, it is the Roth IRA. It can: Provide you with the dou…
In today’s world, there are several different types of investment firms, but with important differences between them that confuse not only consumers but even many investment professi…
While there is no official definition, a bear market has traditionally been defined as a 20% decline in a broad stock market index. Needless to say, bear markets can be horrifying. Not only because of the pain…
In a previous article, we discussed the idea that a properly diversified portfolio provides investors with an effective tool for reducing risk and volatility, without necessarily giving up a return. Below is an…
As consumers, before we make a purchase, we read the fine print and compare labels. Unfortunately, it’s not all that easy for investors to compare one financial firm to another. Variou…
Among the most important tools available to investors is diversification. Diversification allows an investor to reduce investment risks while potentially improving investment returns. Bu…
When the account holder of a Roth IRA dies, most of the rules applicable to the beneficiaries of Traditional IRAs apply (see A Spouse as Beneficiary of an IRA, A Non-Spouse as Beneficiary…
When a non-spouse is named the beneficiary of an IRA, he or she has several options as to how to receive the IRA inheritance. If the account holder was over 70 ½, the first thing that should be done, prior to making any d…
Whether you are currently divorced or you are going through a divorce, it is important to understand how social security benefits are impacted by the dissolution of your marriage. Do You…
Last February, Newsweek magazine ran a cover story entitled “We Are All Socialists Now” in which the authors, Jon Meacham and Evan Thomas wrote: “The America of 2009 is moving toward…
Look at the financial magazines at the airport newsstand or turn on CNBC and you will notice that most financial news stories cover topics such as the top investments and whether or…
