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As a young person, you imagine you have all the time in the world to save for retirement. You live in the present with the future a mere blip out on the horizon. But time has a way of flying by, and you realize that maybe you are not...

After years of saving and planning for their golden years, many people nearing retirement fail to consider the tax burden they may face on income they receive after they stop working. While you will likely see a reduction in the amount...

Capital gains taxes is a hot topic for anyone who is involved in investing and even for people who aren’t as it could potentially impact various aspects of day-to-day life, such as the jobs market. Generally, an investor will buy an...

Tax planning might be complex, but it's also essential—especially for wealthy families, where missing tax breaks or failing to optimize income could cost significant dollars, maybe millions, over a lifetime. And even in the short term,...

The federal income tax filing deadline isn’t until April. However, the start of tax season is nearly upon us. Here are some tips for navigating the tax filing process to help lessen some of the stress you may feel as Tax Day arrives.·...

Life today is expensive, and contributing to a retirement plan is more beneficial than ever. Often, the IRS raises contribution limits annually, such as the contribution limit for 401(k)s increasing to $23,500 for 2025 from $23,000 in...

Choosing and regularly reviewing your beneficiaries and asset distribution plan is critical for ensuring everything goes according to your wishes. This includes structuring your plan around cost-effective measures such as tax benefits...

Wills and Trusts are both very common tools used in estate planning; however, they each have different functions. Generally, a will helps individuals with simpler estates, with minor children, and a more straightforward approach when...

A lesser-known estate planning strategy involves incorporating insurance into your estate plan. Including insurance in your estate plan is a way to provide your loved ones with a means of support and a way to safeguard assets from...

There are many factors to consider when creating a comprehensive estate plan. Forgetting or leaving out certain assets could potentially create time-consuming delays, financial complications, and family disputes. In some cases, dormant...

Maintaining generational wealth involves intentional financial planning, with parents or grandparents passing their wealth to loved ones after they die. But entrusting family members with receiving an inheritance is more than just...

Wealth transfer is more than just a financial transaction; it's an opportunity for families to pass on their values, wisdom, and a legacy of love. Navigating this process requires careful consideration, open communication, and a shared...

At what age should you start discussing inheritance with your children? Estate planning and inheritance, while complex topics, should be an ongoing discussion with your family. Even in their late teens, twenties, and thirties, children...

Passing down an inheritance can be a life-changing event and navigating the transfer of a significant amount of money and assets can pose certain challenges. Historically, inheritances don’t last. This is so common, it is described as...

Many children will receive an inheritance after their parents pass on. In some cases, this may include significant assets. If you currently are or may become one of those individuals, it is critical to figure out how you plan to manage...

Every year, the holiday season inspires a beautiful wave of generosity. Donations surge. Volunteer sign-ups spike. People go out of their way to support those in need or brighten someone’s day. But what if that spirit of giving didn’t...

In times of economic uncertainty, it’s easy to let financial stress overshadow everything else. And sadly, the holiday season isn't exempt from this. But here’s a little insight you might overlook: Holiday cheer might be a rewarding...

The average family spends an extra $1,000 or more during the holiday season. From gifts and travel to dinners, shows, and decorations, each purchase adds up.1 How might you take full advantage of holiday cheer while avoiding the...

For many small businesses, the holiday season is the busiest and most profitable time of year. That's how “Black Friday” got its name; it often marked the first time businesses' books were finally "in the black" (showing profits) for...

How compound interest works Compound interest is the interest you earn on interest. You deposit an initial investment at a particular rate of return that could vary each year. A basic example would be if you invested $10,000 at an 8%...

One of the more difficult conversations for family members to have is talking about estate planning. There are several reasons for this, including the reality of our own mortality and that of our loved ones. In some families, it is an...

Estate planning is critical for efficiently transferring your money, property, and assets to your beneficiaries after you die. The reason people choose an estate plan is that it avoids probate. One thing to keep in mind about your...

1. Create a living trust The way a living trust can avoid probate is by legally owning the assets that then get distributed to beneficiaries according to the terms of the trust, thereby bypassing the court-supervised probate process....

Generational wealth involves financial planning, where parents or grandparents pass wealth to loved ones after they die. Entrusting family members with receiving an inheritance is more than just getting a hold of assets or a check in...

Many parents may feel it is unnecessary to inform their adult children about their personal, financial affairs. However, as your children grow older, it can work to your advantage—and that of your entire family— to share with them key...

Golfing and investing may not seem to share much common ground at first glance. But the more you think about it, a successful golfer and a successful investor share a number of traits such as patience, perseverance, attention to detail...

In golf, as in finances, there are a few rules of thumb that may improve your game: keep a level head, avoid traps, practice before trying something new and stay the course. Applying lessons from the golf course to your financial life...

Money management and investment strategy are critical areas that deserve undivided attention, particularly for HENRYs - High Earners Not Rich Yet. This demographic often earns a significant income but has yet to amass substantial...

Researchers found that those with more severe debt may be more likely to have physical and mental health issues, although causality is a challenge to establish.1 Fortunately, taking steps to improve your financial habits may also...

Working towards financial independence can often be a lifelong process. But for many, financial freedom may come far sooner—and include some fun along the way. What are the differences between financial independence and financial...

Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly becoming a fixture in many industries. For life insurance users, AI helps to target online advertising and helps customers learn more about what policy might work for them. AI also helps life...

As a parent, one of the most significant concerns is ensuring that your children have the financial resources they need to pursue higher education. With college tuition costs continuously rising, it's no surprise that many parents...

The thought of retiring may be intimidating for anyone—but if you own your own business, handing your "baby" to new owners might be enough to stop you in your tracks. What might you do to set your successor up for success? What should...

Addressing wealth management comprehensively in today's market environment is essential for individuals and business entities. Given the dynamic nature of global markets and the ever-changing economic landscape, navigating investment...

Understanding the anticipated changes in tax laws and regulations in 2025 will become increasingly crucial. One area that requires attention is the estate tax sunset at the end of 2025. The estate tax, also known as the inheritance,...

Businesses, consumers, and entire economies are affected by international trade. This makes understanding tariffs important. Here’s a straightforward breakdown. What Are Tariffs? Definition: Imposed by the government, tariffs are...

It’s not that different from picking the right financial professional Have you ever thought about what kind of golf partner best suits your game? Maybe you have an upcoming member guest or are considering joining a local four-ball...

High-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) often face a complex financial landscape characterized by diverse investments and sophisticated financial concerns. They require comprehensive financial planning to preserve and manage their wealth....

In the world of sports and finance, excellence often stems from meticulous planning, strategic decision-making, and effective teamwork. While golf and asset allocation may seem worlds apart, there are remarkable similarities between a...

Money management can help support career success – whatever your discipline. You may be a newbie or have some experience, but either way, you may benefit from some supportive financial habits that you put in place to get you on the...

In today's society, blended families, where at least one parent has children not genetically related to the other spouse or partner, are increasingly common. This family structure has its dynamics and challenges, especially regarding...

Between work commitments, children’s schedules, and fall cleaning, how much time is left in our busy days to think about financial planning? Many of us choose to delay thinking about our finances until much later or to manage them on...

Freedom, unfortunately, doesn’t come free. Along with those fighting on the front lines and the men and women working behind the scenes to help them safeguard our freedoms, we also mustn’t forget their families who are making...

Federal employees have different benefits than other workers, including an annuity (or pension) and the Thrift Savings Plan program. However, navigating these benefits may sometimes be a challenge. What should federal government...

Inheriting comes with many emotions, from sadness to confusion to perhaps even joy or relief. An inheritance can take various forms, such as cash, properties, stocks, bonds, property, or other assets. The person leaving the inheritance...

In today's society, blended families, where at least one parent has children not genetically related to the other spouse or partner, are increasingly common. This family structure has its dynamics and challenges, especially regarding...

The IRS has provided informal guidance on the federal income tax treatment to an employee of certain work-life referral services offered as an employee benefit. What is a work-life referral program? Employers often provide eligible...

Divorce is never easy, but it is important that estate planning continues to take precedence before and after a divorce. Depending on your situation and professional legal guidance, some estate planning items can be updated now, while...

Before the year ends, it’s important to review your finances with a financial professional. Here’s a simple checklist of nine things to double-check to make sure you’re in good shape for the new year. Review Your Tax Withholdings If...

Every year, the holiday season sneaks up on us and, before we get to turn around, it’s over. This frenzied time of year is filled with shopping excursions and office parties, and it’s easy to let financial planning slip through the...

Members of the military have a lot of special financial challenges that most people don't encounter. However, they have access to many benefits, tax breaks and legal protections that can make a huge difference in their families'...

A successful business isn't only about having an outstanding service or product that consumers desire. Success also includes managing day-to-day operations, strategic planning, and financial matters efficiently to create stability and...

On Friday, April 5th, 2024 a 4.8 magnitude earthquake rattled buildings and residents across portions of the Northeast, as reported by the US Geological Survey. Its effects were felt from Philadelphia to New York City, impacting nearly...

In March 2024, the National Association of Realtors (NAR) reached a landmark $418 million settlement after losing an antitrust lawsuit filed by a group of home sellers. As many as 50 million people who paid commissions on homes sold in...

Planning for long-term care (LTC) is essential to financial management and personal well-being. Addressing this crucial need has become more pertinent with the ever-increasing healthcare costs and a growing aging population. Having the...

For some seniors, the mental and physical changes they experience as they age can make it difficult to live independently. This is where a geriatric care manager (GCM) can help. GCMS are trained professionals, typically with a...

Preparing for life to last a century includes thinking about finances and logistics to enjoy good health and security for years to come. Here are some tips and tricks for planning to live into the next century...

Working for someone else at the beginning of your career has plenty of benefits — you'll have access to on-the-job training and infrastructure that lets you learn the ropes without paying the cost of beginner's mistakes.

Employer retirement plan committees hold a significant responsibility in managing and overseeing retirement plans. One of the critical aspects of this oversight is the periodic and formal evaluation of all plan providers, including...

For young professionals contemplating business ownership, the journey towards entrepreneurship is often seen as a rewarding but daunting path. The latest American Express SMB Trendex survey provides critical insights into the state of...

As high-net-worth individuals navigate the complexities of financial planning during their working years, one critical aspect often goes overlooked—long-term care. In 2021, the median monthly cost of a private room in a nursing home...

There is one thing that we will most likely all do one day: regardless of your status in society, position at work, or whether you are tall or short, you may pass down assets to loved ones. When that day arrives, an estate plan is...

As summer approaches, many families start dreaming of sandy beaches, scenic road trips, and exciting adventures in far-off places. However, the rising costs of summer vacations can quickly turn these dreams into financial nightmares....

In early 2022, the IRS issued proposed regulations regarding required minimum distributions (RMDs) to reflect changes made by the Setting Every Community Up for Retirement Enhancement (SECURE) Act of 2019. The IRS has held off on...

In the litigious society we live in, lawsuits are a dime a dozen. With an uptick in cases ranging from professional malpractice to personal injury claims, anyone—especially those with significant assets—is at risk. Wealthy individuals...

Disasters can strike anybody at anytime, resulting in catastrophic property damage and loss. Fires in dwellings and natural disasters such as floods, hurricanes, tornadoes, severe storms, mudslides, and wildfires cause significant...

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent victory in the national elections was muted at best. While he secured a rare third term in the nation’s highest office, his decisive legislative supermajority failed to materialize. Modi...

Going through a divorce can be an emotionally charged and stressful event. Aside from the emotional toll, there's often the challenging task of disentangling finances and assets, a process that frequently leaves many divorcees in a...

To say May was an eventful month for the market is an understatement. Investors navigated around the latter half of first-quarter earnings, a breakout to record highs for the broader market, elevated volatility across fixed income and...

In times of economic upheaval, the natural reaction for many investors is to react with fear and anxiety. Market volatility can unsettle the most seasoned of investors, but with strategic planning and a calm approach, it's possible to...

Being an educator requires expertise and that you stay current on developments in your field. However, that level of ongoing attention can make it difficult to find the time to stay on top of issues that affect your finances, or to put...

The first quarter earnings season is largely in the books, and it was excellent. In fact, S&P 500 earnings per share (EPS) would have been up double digits in the quarter if not for a big loss Bristol Myers Squibb (BMY) absorbed in an...

The post-pandemic economy is treating people very differently, creating a headache for central bankers. The extreme differences can often get traced back to living situations, as renters have a very different experience than...

Are you a good pet owner? Owning an animal means more than feeding it and loving it. Pets aren’t cheap, so doing right by Fido or Tabby involves financial planning. No question, we Americans love our pets. Many of us view our animal...

It continues to be a challenging environment for a lot of fixed income markets, especially higher quality markets. With the Federal Reserve (Fed) seemingly unlikely to lower interest rates until after the summer months (at the...

A new trend, known as “gray divorce,” is a phenomenon that is redefining marriage and retirement in America. It refers to couples aged 50 and older who are getting divorced. A recent study by Bowling Green State University indicates...

“Sell in May and Go Away” is one of the most widely used maxims on Wall Street. There is no shortage of financial media coverage on this topic as the calendar turns to May. However, this phrase may be more rhyme than reason, as stocks...

The travel sector is witnessing a seismic shift in consumer behavior, particularly among Generation Z, whose appetite for travel is not just burgeoning but is fundamentally altering the landscape of the industry. The 2024 State of...

Many people postpone the planning of their estates because they assume that estate planning is only for the affluent. Others may think that estate planning is similar to tax planning, which can always be done “later.” In some cases,...

For many individuals, changing jobs can be an exciting opportunity to advance their career or pursue new interests. However, it can also present a challenge when it comes to managing their retirement savings. When switching jobs,...

As the first quarter earnings season kicked off on April 12, expectations for the energy sector were decidedly negative. That low bar has tempted analysts to forecast a series of positive surprises as recent data releases for both the...

The landscape of retirement savings options is broad, offering various strategies for future financial independence in retirement. Many people are familiar with 401(k)s, 457(b) plans, SIMPLE IRAs, Simplified Employee Pension Plans...

First quarter earnings season kicks off this week with several big banks reporting this Friday, including sector bellwether JPMorgan Chase (JPM). This quarter will seem quite similar to the fourth in terms of growth and drivers, with...

Amid a backdrop of rising financial concerns, including persistent inflation and record-breaking credit card debt, U.S. employees are voicing a growing need for financial planning assistance. As plan sponsors, recognizing and...

The initial public offering (IPO) market allows institutional investors to incorporate the macroeconomic landscape with individual corporate earnings data — and future earnings forecasts — to ascertain a share price that will hold up...

A recent surge in interest around the term "generative AI" has been observed, reaching a peak search interest of 100, according to Google, in the week of February 12th, 2023. The spark for this sudden fascination? The introduction of...

Financial planning is a critical element for the success of any private business owner. It provides a roadmap for working toward both short-term and long-term goals and can help improve the financial health of the business. However,...

The difference between strategic and tactical investment time horizons can be likened to the ebb and flow of tidal patterns in oceans. Strategic investing mirrors the steady rise and fall of the tides, focusing on long-term goals and...

A backdoor Roth IRA transfers money from a traditional account to the Roth. The “mega” backdoor is a strategy employed by people with a 401(k) plan at work. It is often pursued by higher-income earners who aren’t able...

It seems like we just can’t stop talking about central banks. And this week will be no different, with at least 15 central bank meetings planned, some more important than others, of course. While the Federal Reserve (Fed)...

The end of the year serves as a natural checkpoint for many financial and personal processes, and with the arrival of the final months of the year, proactive preparation becomes essential. Whether you are an individual looking to...

Bullion broke new ground last week after rallying to a record high. Growing investor confidence for a Federal Reserve (Fed) rate cut by this summer dragged down yields and the dollar, creating a tailwind for gold. The breakout above...

Credit is one of the most important factors of life that impacts all businesses. Having solid credit is necessary for securing a small business loan. Most lenders consider an acceptable business credit score of 75. The U.S. Small...

Fourth quarter earnings season is winding down with only about a dozen companies in the S&P 500 left to report. After a slow start mired by messy bank results early on, corporate America picked up the pace and ended up delivering...

As professionals, managing our own finances can be a challenge. However, one area that we often overlook, yet is vitally important, is understanding and navigating our aging parents' finances. As they move into retirement and beyond,...

This distinction celebrates a select group of advisors on ambitious growth trajectories, who have achieved excellence in financial guidance.

After a brief lull in 2023, buyback activity appears to be back this year. A resilient U.S. economy, easing inflation pressures, and expectations for an eventual shift to interest rate cuts have given corporate America confidence to...

As the Federal Reserve (Fed) continues with its Quantitative Tightening (QT) program, questions abound regarding the Treasury Department’s expanding funding needs. The QT program is designed to reduce the Fed’s balance...

Creating an Income Plan While in Retirement

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Monday, February 19, 2024

You‘ve saved for years. Now that you are retired, did you create an income plan from your savings? The financial industry and media constantly talk about the need to save for retirement. Put money into your 401(k), contribute to...

When we wrote the annual outlook last November, the data was mixed. Some metrics hinted at emerging cracks in the economy while others suggested the growth trajectory in capital markets and the economy had legs. So, the variety of the...

How to Help Your Children with Their Debt

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Monday, February 5, 2024

Parenthood is full of highs and lows. If you have children, you probably know firsthand what it feels like to be in debt. Because you know how debt feels and you love your children, you probably want to step in and relieve them of...

A positive January has historically been a bullish sign for stocks. Yale Hirsch, creator of the “Stock Trader’s Almanac”, first discovered this seasonal pattern back in 1972, which he called the January Barometer and...

Valuing Liabilities Like Assets

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Monday, January 29, 2024

When the topic of financial planning comes up, most individuals naturally gravitate towards the idea of growing their assets. Stocks, bonds, real estate, and retirement accounts usually dominate these discussions. However, a...

With the S&P 500 having recently ascended to a fresh record high after such a strong 2023, it’s natural for investors to worry that valuations have become over-extended. On traditional valuation measures, valuations do appear...

4 Under-the-Radar Tax Credits for Business Owners

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Monday, January 22, 2024

As a small business owner, your employees are the heart and soul of your organization. Many entrepreneurs understand the importance of a diverse, inclusive workforce and the benefits it brings, not just to the business, but to the...

Shipping disruptions in the Red Sea could temporarily impact goods prices but not at the same magnitude as during the pandemic. Tight financial conditions, slowing economic growth, and a disinflationary trend all support the Federal...

Fourth quarter earnings season kicked off last week, and markets were generally left wanting more. That doesn’t necessarily mean this earnings season will be disappointing, especially considering the bar has been lowered so much....

Why Companies Choose Employee Ownership

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Monday, January 15, 2024

Benefits of An ESO In the vast landscape of business ownership and exit strategies, the desire to preserve the company's legacy and ensure its continued success often dominates the decision-making process. One increasingly popular...

Pursue Financial Fitness Like You Do Your Physical Fitness

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Monday, January 8, 2024

Individuals who exercise regularly and focus on better health, developing their bodies, stamina, and mental clarity understand what it encompasses. There are steps that people take when they engage in physical fitness and work toward...

As China emerged a year ago from the shadow of the stringent zero COVID-19-related measures that all but shut down its economy for over two years, much was expected in terms of its economic growth prospects. There were numerous...

To say 2023 was challenging may be an understatement. While stocks had a surprisingly impressive year, there was no shortage of obstacles for investors to overcome, including historic interest rate volatility, recession risk, banking...

Protecting Assets From Lawsuits

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Monday, January 1, 2024

In the litigious society we live in, lawsuits are a dime a dozen. With an uptick in cases ranging from professional malpractice to personal injury claims, anyone—especially those with significant assets—is at risk. Wealthy...

Following the Federal Reserve’s (Fed) aggressive rate-hiking campaign in 2022 and 2023, stocks are entering a phase in which the market narrative is focused on interest-rate stability — as inflation, we believe, comes down...

Is Earthquake Insurance Worth It?

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Monday, December 18, 2023

Most homeowners policies have very limited coverage for earthquake damage--excluding direct loss from earth movement but covering loss by a subsequent fire, explosion, breakage of glass, or theft. As a result, if you live in an area...

Retirement Planning for Educators In A Nutshell

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Monday, December 11, 2023

Being an educator requires expertise and that you stay current on developments in your field. However, that level of ongoing attention can make it difficult to find the time to stay on top of issues that affect your finances or to put...

Despite a heavy lobbying effort to cajole OPEC+ members to agree to a unified cut in oil production, Saudi Arabia, the de facto leader of the energy cartel, was unable to orchestrate anything more than pledges on a...

Determining A Personalized Inflation Rate

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Monday, December 4, 2023

In the age of personalized medicine, tailored education, and customized diets, isn't it time we started considering a personalized approach to inflation? Inflation, as any economist will tell you, is the general rise in prices and the...

Opportunities abound in the markets, even during periods when the economy appears ripe for a regime shift. Recent growth metrics surprised to the upside, but leading indicators point toward some downside risk. In this edition of...

6 Business Goals for a Prosperous New Year

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Monday, November 27, 2023

The new year is fast approaching, and it is the perfect time to set up resolutions for your business. Whether you want to increase your sales, gather a more extensive customer base, or just accomplish needed business improvements,...

The holidays are nearly upon us – a time of giving, goodwill to others, and embracing traditions. For many people, giving to a charity or organization that aligns with your values provides a sense of fulfillment. If you itemize...

As the market appears to be taking a rest and consolidating its $2.7 trillion rally leading up to the Thanksgiving holiday, the historical pattern over the last five years suggests the shortened holiday week typically enjoys modest...

Startup Equity is Not Just a Perk

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Monday, November 13, 2023

In the exhilarating world of startups, offering equity to employees has become a prevalent trend. Equity is often dangled as a carrot, a promise of future rewards as the company scales and, hopefully, becomes the next big success story...

There is nothing like an eight-day winning streak to change the market narrative. Stocks have quickly gone from a correction to a comeback this month, and the S&P 500 is now challenging key resistance at 4,400. While a confirmed...

Building Rich Legacies for Women Investors

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Monday, November 6, 2023

For women, wealth represents more than just financial independence. It embodies the opportunity to create a lasting legacy, positively impacting their lives, their loved ones, and society as a whole. As women perceive and value wealth...

It’s been another volatile year for municipal (muni) investors this year. While generally outperforming U.S. Treasuries, the Bloomberg Muni Index is on track for its second calendar year of negative returns—something that...

Retirement Legislation Awaits Further Action

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Tuesday, October 31, 2023

Legislation that could benefit people with individual retirement accounts (IRAs) and workplace retirement plans is currently moving through Congress. The Securing a Strong Retirement Act of 2022 has passed almost unanimously in the...

It’s a tradition here to write about what scares us around Halloween each year. The past few years have offered plenty of material to use in these annual commentaries, but with wars in Israel and Ukraine ongoing, Washington, D.C...

Despite headwinds, the U.S. could experience structural changes in the labor market, residential real estate, and inflation as the post-pandemic economy progresses into the New Year. As markets adjust to a new regime, investors should...

Earnings season has kicked off with several of the big banks and a handful of other blue-chip companies having already reported results for their calendar third quarters. The key headline this reporting season will be the (likely) end...

Financial Planning for Adoptive Parents

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Monday, October 16, 2023

Adoptive parents need to be concerned with special financial planning issues that arise when a child is added to their family. These issues include paying adoption costs, understanding the income tax implications, and reviewing their...

U.S. Treasury yields have seemingly been moving in one direction lately (higher), with the 30-year Treasury yield temporarily breaching 5% for the first time since 2007. The move higher in yields (lower in price) has been unrelenting,...

Value Investing and Today’s Affluent Portfolio

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Monday, October 9, 2023

Every consumer likes a good bargain, particularly value investors, who seek out stocks trading for less than their intrinsic value. By choosing companies the market has undervalued, or investing in mutual funds with similar objectives,...

Soft Landing or Delayed Recession?

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Monday, October 2, 2023

Economists have been predicting a recession for the U.S. economy ever since the Federal Reserve began aggressively raising interest rates in 2022. This is Econ 101. High interest rates, which make it more expensive to borrow, are...

After a difficult September for stocks, investors are surely ready to flip the calendar to October. That’s the month that kicks off the historically strong fourth quarter. Expecting this pattern to repeat this year is tricky...

Business Owners’ Control of their Work-life Balance is the Fine Line Between Hard Work and Hell

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Monday, September 25, 2023

We live in a society in which people are trying to do more each day. Both work and life are worthy competitors for time. Yet the complex demands of modern society have redefined the notion of work-life balance. Work-life balance has...

Understanding Old Age: Stages & Characteristics

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Monday, September 18, 2023

Old age is a natural part of life, a stage that reflects the accumulation of years, experiences, and wisdom. Often, it is also a period of renewed freedom, providing an opportunity to engage in activities such as traveling, pursuing...

Recent data suggests economic conditions in Europe are deteriorating, removing a key element of LPL Research’s positive view of the attractively valued developed international equities asset class. Previous U.S. dollar weakness...

The BRIC acronym, without the “S,” was introduced in 2001 by the Goldman Sachs chief economist who highlighted the prodigious growth and investment prospects of Brazil, Russia, India, and China combined. In 2009, Russia...

Social Media Influencers vs. Financial Professionals

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Sunday, September 10, 2023

As the digital age reshapes traditional norms, a dramatic shift in the sources of financial advice is emerging among young investors. Betterment, a leading online investment company, recently surveyed 1,200 investors from Gen Z to baby...

Fixed income investors have had a rough time over the last few years. Normally a staid asset class, core bonds (as proxied by the Bloomberg Aggregate Bond Index) have seen negative returns over the last two calendar years and could...

Revisit Your Investment Strategy at Each Age Milestone

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Monday, September 4, 2023

As the saying goes, "50 is the new 40"—and with Americans living longer than ever before, it's not unusual for those in their 50s, 60s, or even 70s to be in their peak earning years.1 But for those who would prefer the...

Budgets and Cash Flows

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Monday, August 28, 2023

Why is the preparation of financial statements important during the divorce process?Before a reasonable property settlement can be negotiated, it's important for both spouses in a divorce to disclose all assets, liabilities, sources of...

Dealing with Life’s Transitional Moments

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Monday, August 28, 2023

Some life transitions, such as a career change or marriage, are planned, but a job loss or divorce can be sudden and unexpected. One common thread that accompanies all transitions, however, is the concern about whether there will be...

The Federal Reserve (Fed) often uses the Jackson Hole Symposium to announce tweaks in policy. Other central bank leaders are also worth watching as investors try to perceive where rates will be in the coming months. In this piece, we...

Insurance Concerns of Divorcing Couples

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Monday, August 21, 2023

Few life changes are of more consequence than a divorce. In addition to the financial and emotional difficulties, you'll face special concerns about your insurance coverage. Planning for these changes should begin long before the...

Volatility has returned right on queue as U.S. equity markets continue to pull back from overbought levels. The recent jump in interest rates has proven to be too much too fast for stocks to absorb, especially for the heavyweight and...

Establishing a Credit History

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Monday, August 14, 2023

What is credit?   When you say you want credit, you are probably asking for payment terms on a purchase. You are seeking to purchase goods or services today and forego all or a portion of the payment until a later date. You may or...

It’s different this time. The four (or five) most dangerous words in investing. We’ll take the risk and use those words here as we break down the recent decision by credit rating agency Fitch to downgrade U.S. government...

Earnings season is mostly behind us with about 85% of S&P 500 companies having reported second quarter results. The high level results aren’t particularly impressive, but if we peel back the onion, the numbers are encouraging....

The Basics of Green Investing

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Monday, July 31, 2023

Nowadays, many people consider investing to be about more than just money. As consumers become increasingly concerned about rising fuel costs, extreme weather conditions, and peaking home energy demands, they’re putting more...

The economy is doing better than expected, and the markets are responding accordingly. In this piece, we discuss some of the factors that cause us to think the Federal Reserve (Fed) hiked for the last time in this cycle as inflation...

The Rise of the Boomerang-Employee Trend

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Monday, July 24, 2023

As we navigate the aftermath of the "Great Resignation," a unique phenomenon is making headlines – the resurgence of "boomerang employees," those who leave a company only to return later.In the early days of the post-pandemic job...

The first half of the year probably didn’t go the way many fixed income investors had hoped, particularly after the historically awful year last year. It wasn’t a horrible start—more in line with recent...

Tips to Enhance Performance on the Golf Course and with your Investments

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Monday, July 17, 2023

In the world of sports and finance, excellence often stems from meticulous planning, strategic decision-making, and effective teamwork. While golf and asset allocation may seem worlds apart, there are remarkable similarities between a...

Earnings season is upon us as some banks and a small handful of other blue chip companies have already reported results for their quarters ending June 30. The results on the surface probably won’t offer much to write home about...

4 Ways to Simultaneously Save For College and Retirement

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Monday, July 10, 2023

With the average price for private college tuition and fees hitting $43,750 for the 2021-2022 school year and public college attendees paying more than $28,000 per year, many parents are nervously anticipating what will happen after...

Tax Considerations of Selling your Veterinary Practice

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Monday, July 3, 2023

Today, veterinary practices are responsible for treating millions of animals, large and small. The livestock industry alone is around $80 trillion. But when most people think about veterinarian practices, they think about the smaller...

The long dormant capital markets have recently begun showing signs of interest from institutional investors and deal makers anxious to bring companies to market. While activity remains muted at best, expectations are focused on 2024,...

Buying a House is Not Always the Best Investment

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Wednesday, June 28, 2023

Despite relatively low mortgage rates and dreams of bidding wars, multiple offers and all-cash closings above asking-price, would-be-home-purchasers should be cautious about putting too much money into real estate. While some might...

We know it’s old news at this point, but on June 8, 2023, the S&P 500 entered a new bull market. After such a strong rally off the October lows, this young bull probably needs a breather. A look at the charts suggests...

As the economy is likely downshifting, investors should take heed that the Federal Reserve’s (Fed) current stance is eerily similar to early 2007.  During that time, the Fed held a tightening bias since they believed the...

Helping Young Adults Understand Insurance

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Monday, June 19, 2023

Young adults starting out in life, especially newlyweds, need insurance. But what kind? As a start, a good term life policy likely is a smart move. Other types of insurance may not be. And as they age, what other varieties of coverage...

Considerations When Buying Waterfront Property

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Monday, June 12, 2023

Whether it’s along a roaring coastline or nestled next to a lethargic lake, owning waterfront property is a luxury many homebuyers dream of. However, it isn’t as simple as finding a home and moving in. Homeownership requires...

The Federal Reserve (Fed) meets this week where it is largely expected to not raise short term interest rates for the first time in 15 months. However, Fed messaging has been all over the place in recent weeks. While some Fed...

Why Retirees Should Devote Time to Community Service

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Monday, June 5, 2023

After retirement, you may find you have more time on your hands than you first anticipated. If you are looking for something to fill your downtime that may be fulfilling and beneficial to your health and wellbeing, community service...

Stocks have had a nice run, but at higher prices, the bar for further gains gets higher. We have recently made the case in this publication that there are a lot of reasons to expect the market to go higher between now and year end. But...

The mega-cap technology companies have powered the broad market higher this year. In fact, the 8.1% gain in the S&P 500 year to date has been driven entirely by six mega-cap stocks: Apple (AAPL), Microsoft (MSFT), NVIDIA (NVDA), Meta...

What To Know About Dark Web Data Leaks

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Monday, May 29, 2023

Data breaches are far too common. They can affect hundreds of millions or sometimes billions at one time. From Yahoo's breach of more than three billion user profiles in 2013 to LinkedIn's breach of 700,000 profiles in June...

Economists like to remind us there is no such thing as a free lunch. In investment parlance, that just means all investments carry risk—even cash. And the big risk with cash is reinvestment risk. That is, while short-term rates...

When to Use POD & TOD Designations

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Saturday, May 20, 2023

Both Payable on Death (POD) and Transfer on Death (TOD) are designation instructions that you add to registrations on financial accounts or property records to help avoid probate. These designations are merely a set of directions to...

First quarter earnings season is nearly complete, and it has caused us to regret titling our earnings preview commentary on April 10, “Malaise Continues.” While the “better than feared” label fit the past couple...

An Essential Guide to Estate Planning Preparedness

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Saturday, May 13, 2023

A recent survey by Caring.com found that a whopping two in three American adults do not have an estate plan—an alarming statistic, considering that an estate plan can protect your assets and ensure that they go to the right...

Much has been written lately about the threats facing the reserve currency status enjoyed by the U.S. dollar. “De-dollarization” headlines appear on a near-daily basis, suggesting the dollar’s reign is in looming...

5 Steps to Consider Before Retirement

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Saturday, May 6, 2023

Whether you're hoping to retire soon or are just beginning to explore the idea of stepping back from your job, you're probably wondering how to make it happen. Will you have enough money? How will you spend your time? What will you do...

“Sell in May and go away” is probably the most widely cited stock market cliché in history. Every year a barrage of Wall Street commentaries and stories in the financial press floods in about this popular, but overused...

Financial Survival After a Job Loss

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Saturday, April 29, 2023

You may have lost your job already, or it's something you're concerned about. Either way, the keys to surviving a job loss financially are to plan ahead, take stock of your income, and cut your expenses.Plan aheadIf you haven't been...

Investors use various analogies to describe the importance of small businesses in the domestic economy. Some refer to the small business sector as the backbone or the lifeblood of the economy.  At this current stage of the cycle,...

Understanding How State-Funded Long-Term-Care May Impact You

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Saturday, April 22, 2023

As our population ages, discussions about long-term care (LTC) and who pays for it are essential. LTC is ongoing care in a care facility, nursing home, or at home for those unable to perform a certain number of activities of daily...

The commercial real estate (CRE) market has recently captured the spotlight after being flagged as the next potential shoe to drop following last month’s banking turmoil. While rising rates have weighed on financing costs and the...

Considerations when Choosing a Nursing Home

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Saturday, April 15, 2023

What is a nursing home? A nursing home is a state-licensed facility that may provide skilled nursing care, intermediate care, and/or custodial care. You may need to enter a nursing home on a short-term basis (for example, after a major...

First quarter earnings season kicks off this week with some big banks reporting toward the end of the week. In some ways this quarter’s earnings season will probably be déjà vu all over again—earnings declines and...

Emergency Savings or Your Retirement Goals?

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Saturday, April 8, 2023

When it comes to personal finance, there are a number of competing priorities that can make it difficult to determine where to focus your efforts. For many people, the choice between building emergency savings and working towards their...

Financial markets and the Federal Reserve are reading from two different playbooks. Who is right? The markets are pricing in several rate cuts by the end of this year, while the Federal Reserve communicated more rate hikes with an...

The Tax Benefits of a Backdoor Roth IRA for High Earners

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Saturday, April 1, 2023

A Backdoor Roth IRA is a strategy that allows individuals who earn too much to directly contribute to a Roth IRA to still contribute to one indirectly. The strategy takes advantage of a loophole in the tax code that allows individuals...

A lot has changed in the past few weeks, both in terms of expectations for interest rates and lost confidence in the health of the banking system as a result of the sharp rise in interest rates that has led to some things...

The Murkiest Part of Estate Planning is Talking

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Saturday, March 25, 2023

The murkiest part of estate planning is to discuss when and how to distribute your assets to your heirs. This process requires a series of considerations and trade-offs to avoid emotion-laden family problems.For many, focusing on the...

The Federal Reserve (Fed) has a history of raising short-term interest rates until something “breaks.” Considering the Fed has raised rates from a near-zero level to 4.75% (upper bound) over the course of only one year, it...

Let's Discuss Long-Term Care Annuities

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Saturday, March 18, 2023

When planning for the potential cost of long-term care, you've probably considered long-term care insurance. But premiums can be expensive, and if you do buy the coverage, you probably hope you never have to use it. The prospect of...

Last week did not play out how we anticipated. Coming into the week, it was all about Federal Reserve (Fed) Chair Jerome Powell’s congressional testimony and the February jobs report. Instead, we got a shockingly fast collapse of...

An Introduction to Group Disability Insurance

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Saturday, March 11, 2023

If a disabling illness or injury were to prevent you from working for weeks, months, or even years, how would you support yourself and your family? If disability strikes, you may discover that your most valuable asset isn't your home...

Suggesting an economy makes “no landing” makes no sense. Analogies eventually break down, especially this one. Economic activity does not stop like an airplane eventually does, but rather the economy will settle into a...

Using the 4 Cs of Credit to Assess Bank Expectations

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Saturday, March 4, 2023

What goes into a lender's decision to extend credit? How do lenders decide how much credit to offer? Although the answers may vary from day to day and lender to lender, there are common factors that all lenders consider when making...

While concerns about the debt ceiling have been increasing, markets, businesses, and the economy are likely to see only minimal impact until we are days, or maybe a few weeks, from the “x date,” the date on which the...

Using the Reasonableness Test in Creating Your Budget

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Saturday, February 25, 2023

What is the reasonableness test? When forecasting what the future might bring, whether in terms of income or expenses, it is always prudent to ask what is actually reasonable to expect. The question is simple, but the answer, often, is...

Markets have adjusted to several changes this year. The pace at which inflation has cooled is slowing. The market has started to believe the Federal Reserve’s (Fed) “higher for longer” message. The bar for earnings...

What Insurance Policies Do You Need?

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Saturday, February 18, 2023

Insurance is a great way to protect yourself and your loved ones from high or unexpected costs. There are several different types of policies that you can purchase for different purposes, but here’s a closer look at how you can...

Soft landing or no soft landing, that is the question, with all due respect to William Shakespeare. But while this may be the most commonly asked question these days, it may not be the most important or the toughest. That honor goes to...

Why Caregivers Should Care About Estate Planning

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Saturday, February 11, 2023

More than half of Americans don't have a will, even though most agree that wills are a good idea. For caregivers, planning ahead for their unexpected death is even more critical since the people who depend on their services will likely...

Investors got more excited about international investing late last year. Some of that was chasing better returns, as developed international equities solidly beat the U.S. over the last three months of 2022. Some was the increased...

Use of Trusts and Creditor Implications

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Saturday, February 4, 2023

What are the creditor implications of using trusts?Certain types of trusts can protect your assets from future claims of creditors and future lawsuits. Trusts that have this protective feature are often referred to as asset protection...

The script has been flipped in 2023. Last year’s underperformers have turned into outperformers this year, driving the S&P 500 Index up over 5% this month. The pace and composition of the rally have left many investors skeptical...

Retirement Investors Get Another Boost From Washington

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Saturday, January 28, 2023

Amid the 1,650-page, $1.7 trillion omnibus spending legislation passed by Congress last week and expected to be signed by President Biden were several provisions affecting work-sponsored retirement plans and, to a lesser degree, IRAs....

The latest episode of the debate between stock market bulls and bears has gotten more interesting. For every valid point from one side, there’s an equally compelling argument on the other side. Perhaps the best reason for the...

What Student Athletes Should Consider When Playing in College

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Saturday, January 21, 2023

For more than 150 years, American college football has maintained its top-dog status in the U.S. sporting arena. On November 6, 1869—a mere four years after the end of the American Civil War—players from Rutgers and...

Fourth quarter earnings season is underway and probably won’t bring much good news. Lackluster global growth, ongoing profit margin pressures from inflation, and negative currency impacts are likely to translate into a...

4 Common Home-Buying Mistakes To Avoid

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Saturday, January 14, 2023

Buying a home may be stressful, whether it is your first home or a subsequent one. One way to make the home-buying process easier that may cause less anxiety is by being aware of common home-buying mistakes and how to avoid them. Here...

We believe accountability and modesty are among the keys to success in this business. In striving for those qualities, LPL Research has a tradition of starting off a new year with a lessons learned commentary. We got some things wrong...

How The SECURE Act 2.0 Could Change The Way You Save For Retirement

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Saturday, January 7, 2023

The pending legislation for the proposed retirement reform, better known as the Setting Every Community Up for Retirement Enhancement (SECURE) Act 2.0, is expected to be passed into law by the end of 2022. In March of this year, the...

2022 was a dizzying year as markets and the global economy continued to find itself out of balance due to the still present aftereffects of the COVID-19 pandemic and the policy response to it. If 2022 was about recognizing imbalances...

Helping Elders Manage Their Assets

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Saturday, December 31, 2022

 Today, many individuals are finding it necessary to help elderly parents or relatives manage their personal finances. One area of particular concern is property management. This issue may arise when seniors reach their late...

Converting Savings to Retirement Income

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Saturday, December 24, 2022

During your working years, you've probably set aside funds in retirement accounts such as IRAs, 401(k)s, or other workplace savings plans, as well as in taxable accounts. Your challenge during retirement is to convert those savings...

The Federal Reserve (Fed) wrapped up its last Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) meeting of the year last week, where it hiked short-term interest rates for the seventh time in as many meetings, taking the fed funds rate to 4.5%...

Worried About Your Financial Health? It May Be Time For A Checkup

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Saturday, December 17, 2022

When was the last time you gave yourself a financial checkup? As the saying goes, there’s no time like the present. This is especially true when it comes to reviewing the current state of your finances and figuring out what you...

Despite the S&P 500 Index starting December with five consecutive days of losses, we think December is down but not out. December often starts slow but historically has been a strong month. There are also some potentially supportive...

Members of the Military - Estate Planning

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Saturday, December 10, 2022

Whether you're a veteran or just starting out in the military, planning and preparing your estate is of vital importance. Why is estate planning so critical?Because, at your death, you leave behind the people you love and all your...

Economic and corporate data support the initial strong reads on holiday retail sales despite the macro headwinds, reinforcing the idea that today’s consumer is in a better position than usual at this point in the business cycle....

Installment Sales - Tax Planning

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Sunday, December 4, 2022

What is it?An installment sale, sometimes used when a small business or real estate is sold, is defined as a sale of property where at least one payment is to be received after the close of the tax year in which the sale occurs. In...

Family Wealth Transfer Planning

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Sunday, November 27, 2022

What is family wealth, and how do you preserve it? You have worked hard for years and accumulated wealth. You earned this money through your job, investing, and saving, and you want to preserve it for yourself and to take care of...

Recent inflation data has tempered expectations for future Federal Reserve tightening, including a potential peak in the terminal rate near 5.0% in May or June of 2023. While the market has welcomed this news, history suggests the path...

4 Simple Ways to Give Back (This Holiday Season)

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Thursday, November 17, 2022

As you take a moment to reflect upon all of the things that bring you comfort and joy this holiday season, consider giving back to those in need. Whether you are participating in an organized fundraiser or diving headfirst into your...

The growth vs. value debate has been pretty one-sided in 2022, with value outperforming growth for a sustained period for the first time in almost 15 years. However, the debate is heating up as investors begin to consider whether the...

Elon Musk Takes Twitter Private

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Wednesday, November 9, 2022

Elon Musk has finally completed his US$44 billion deal to acquire Twitter and take it private. The world’s richest man has already begun putting his imprint on the social network by firing four of its top executives. While most...

Midterm elections are upon us, with Election Day on Tuesday. Republicans are strongly favored to win the House, and the Senate is roughly a tossup. We believe either outcome would be market-friendly, although the bigger market driver...

IRS Adjusts Tax Brackets to Account for Inflation

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Wednesday, November 2, 2022

Shifts in tax brackets as well as the standard deduction slated for 2024. On October 18, 2022, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) announced tax year 2023 adjustments for tax returns filed in 2024.

Federal Reserve Preview: TRICK or Treat?

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Tuesday, November 1, 2022

With a series of important economic indicators suggesting the economy is declining and inflation is finally decelerating, albeit very slowly, markets are beginning to factor in that the Fed may soon transition to a less aggressive...

Don’t Believe That This Bear is Different – It’s Not

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Monday, October 24, 2022

Bear markets are painful, but they are also part of the investment process. Bull markets happen. Bear markets happen. Just stick to your financial plan, and stay calm and disciplined. When the market sours or slumps, don’t...

Three Things to Know About Recessions

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Monday, October 24, 2022

If the U.S. economy enters a recession, the causes and potential outcomes will be hotly debated. At LPL Research, our starting point is always looking at history. This week’s commentary will remind us of three things we know...

Investing in Bonds

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Monday, October 17, 2022

Bonds may not be as glamorous as stocks or commodities, but they are a significant component of most investment portfolios. Bonds are traded in huge volumes every day, but their full usefulness is often underappreciated and...

Tips for Keeping Your Emotions in Check as an Investor

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Monday, October 10, 2022

Money is always an emotional subject and when our emotions get involved with our investments we often make wrong decisions. And that can be a costly mistake. Yet while the financial industry is constantly preaching that "Past...

Pockets of Vulnerability Magnified by Monetary Policy

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Monday, October 10, 2022

As Federal Reserve (Fed) officials continue to emphasize the Fed’s commitment to restoring price stability, the dollar marches ever higher. Markets are currently pricing in another 75-basis point rate hike at the November 2 Fed...

Markets on Watch as Xi Jinping’s Influence to be Tested in October

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Tuesday, October 4, 2022

On October 16, China will begin its 20th National Congress of the Chinese Communist Party in Beijing. This plenum is especially significant because it is expected that President Xi Jinping will be granted an unprecedented third term,...

Don't Get Rid of Dividend-Paying Stocks Just Yet

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Monday, October 3, 2022

“Money makes money. And the money that money makes, makes money.” Since the beginning of the year, economists and pundits seem united in the belief that economic growth will continue to contract, propelling inflation and...

5 Ways to Give Tax Free Gifts

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Wednesday, September 28, 2022

If you plan to gift a sizable amount of money to a loved one, gift tax should be on your radar. Gift tax is a federal tax imposed on transfers of cash or property valued above a certain threshold. Gift tax is paid by the gift giver,...

Why It May Be Time to Take Advantage of Higher Yields

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Monday, September 26, 2022

The LPL Research Strategic and Tactical Asset Allocation Committee is increasing its recommended interest rate exposure in its tactical allocation from underweight to neutral. Now that interest rates have moved substantially higher, we...

The Booming Trend of Multigenerational Living

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Wednesday, September 21, 2022

At first glance, multigenerational living arrangements may seem unusual, but they were once the rule, not the exception. In mid- to late-nineteenth-century America, the majority of elderly parents and grandparents lived with their...

How Much Higher Can Rates Go?

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Tuesday, September 20, 2022

Inflationary dynamics continue to surprise to the upside, and markets now expect the Fed to pursue one of its most aggressive rate hiking campaign in years. U.S. Treasury yields continue to move higher as well. We think we’ve...

An Overview of High-New-Worth Estate Planning

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Wednesday, September 14, 2022

Even if you never thought of yourself as especially wealthy, there may be a fair chance that you fall into the category of "high net worth individuals"—those who have liquid assets of $1 million or more. For many individuals who...

Getting Jobs Market Back into Balance

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Monday, September 12, 2022

Federal Reserve Chairman Jay Powell reiterated his warning that getting inflation under control will require some pain. Powell is likely making these warnings based on the arcane, clunky relationship between inflation and unemployment....

Financial Planning for a Couple’s Age Gap

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Wednesday, September 7, 2022

Couples usually don’t retire at the same time when they have an ‘age gap’ between them. An age gap relationship is one where there is eleven or more year’s age difference between them. Age-gap relationships are...

The difficult 2022 for stocks may not get much easier because as we now wait for better news on the inflation front, we have to contend with a seasonally weak month of September. While we got some welcome news in Friday’s jobs...

Earnings growth of 6-7% doesn’t sound very exciting, but given the challenges corporate America has faced, we consider the nearly-complete second-quarter earnings season a resounding success. The numerous challenges last quarter...

401(k) In-Plan Roth Conversions

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Friday, August 26, 2022

A 401(k) In-Plan Roth Conversion (also called an "In-Plan Roth Rollover") allows you to transfer the non-Roth portion of your 401(k) account into a designated Roth account within the same plan. The amount you convert is subject to...

Home Sales Fall (Again). What’s Next?

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Monday, August 22, 2022

Existing home sales fell 5.9% in July, the sixth consecutive month of decline as higher interest rates weigh on housing affordability and prospective buyers. As the housing market slowed, so did prices. The median price for a...

An Introduction to Donor Advised Funds

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Friday, August 19, 2022

If you’re in search of a way to reduce your tax bill and give back to the community, a Donor Advised Fund may be worth considering. Also known as a DAF, a Donor Advised fund is a charitable investment strategy you can use to...

Is This the Start of a New Bull Market?

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Monday, August 15, 2022

Investors cheered the two better-than-expected inflation reports last week, pushing the S&P 500 to 16% above its June 16 low and only 11% below its all-time high. After this rebound, the key question investors are asking is whether...

Common Warning Signs of Financial Fraud

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Friday, August 12, 2022

Many people are familiar with the scammers who promise to pay millions of dollars in exchange for briefly holding funds in your bank account or those who offer to enhance certain body parts risk-free. Today's scammers are clever at...

The Case for a U.S. Recession Weakens

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Monday, August 8, 2022

The market pundits remain intensely focused on the question of whether the U.S. economy is in or about to enter recession, so we thought a piece on what a recession might mean for the stock market would be of interest. While...

College Planning Tips for Self-Employed Parents

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Friday, August 5, 2022

Self-employed parents have unique considerations when sending their children to college. If you own your own business, there are several ways to optimize your financial situation as you prepare for your child to go to college. Keep...

6 Little-Known Uses For Life Insurance

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Wednesday, August 3, 2022

When people think of life insurance, what usually comes to mind is settling the deceased's final expenses and providing financial support for their beneficiaries. Although these are the most common uses of life insurance, cash value,...

What a Week for the Stock Market

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Monday, August 1, 2022

That was quite a week. These days a Federal Reserve (Fed) policy meeting alone gets a lot of headlines and has market participants on the edge of their seats. Add to that the second straight quarter of negative gross domestic product...

5 Ways a Financial Professional Could Be a Small-Business Owner's Best Friend

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Thursday, July 28, 2022

As a business owner, you may assume you do not need professional financial advice until you hit certain milestones such as $1 million in sales, having ten employees, or some other tangible measure. However, financial professionals may...

3 Factors That Could Change The Inflation Course

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Wednesday, July 27, 2022

For the past year, supply-related problems contributed more to inflation than demand-related imbalances, but that may be changing soon. There are at least three factors that could change the course of inflation. First, the improvement...

Five Things That Economists Know, but Sound Wrong to Most Other People

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Thursday, July 21, 2022

Economists have shaped the modern world in many ways. Governments make policy choices in response to the data that we produce about things like GDP and inflation. Social media companies use our insights about human behavior to create...

Managing Market Volatility

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Monday, July 18, 2022

Markets rarely give us clear skies, and there are always threats to watch for on the horizon, but the right preparation, context, and support can help us navigate anything that may lie ahead. So far, this year hasn’t seen a...

6 Ways to Minimize Your Tax Liability Throughout the Year

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Thursday, July 14, 2022

You don't need to wait until the end of the year to look for ways to minimize your tax liability. Tax planning should take place throughout the year to have you prepared well ahead of tax season. Here are six ways to minimize your tax...

Securing Your Future with Life Cycle Planning

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Thursday, July 7, 2022

The need for regular saving and investing spans many life stages. Through the years, your goals will change and your strategies will shift, but don’t be alarmed. You’re just progressing through the normal stages of life,...

Constructive, Not Complacent: Lowering S&P 500 Target

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Tuesday, July 5, 2022

Stocks have been unable to make up much ground since the June 16 lows, with a bear market rally amounting to only around a 4.3% gain in the S&P 500 Index since then (as of July 1). After the more than 6% rally the week of June 24 and...

Relief at the Pump and for Portfolios?

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Monday, June 27, 2022

2022 has been rough all-around for the American consumer. Not only are we battling decades-high inflation, but investors’ portfolios are off to one of the worst starts to a year in history as we near the halfway point. Our...

Bear Market Q&A

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Monday, June 20, 2022

The bear market that started on June 13 has left the S&P 500 Index 23.5% below its January 3 high. After the initial positive reaction to the Federal Reserve’s first 0.75% rate hike since 1994 and tough talk on inflation,...

Is the 60/40 Portfolio Dead?

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Monday, June 13, 2022

This year has been tough for investors, not just because stocks have fallen but also because bonds have not helped mitigate those losses as they have historically done. Below we discuss the outlook for diversified portfolios of stocks...

The Economy Is Slowing But Not Shrinking

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Monday, June 6, 2022

Many pundits are issuing recession warnings and saying the economy is heading for a hard landing. Amid the cacophony of voices, we think the economy is slowing just like central bankers want but not shrinking. Further, we argue that a...

Looking through the Clouds

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Wednesday, June 1, 2022

At the risk of sounding cliché, making the case for stocks to stage a second half rally back to the prior highs requires investors to see through some heavy cloud cover. If you prefer another market cliché, it’s times...

Dawn of a New Era for Core Bonds

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Monday, May 23, 2022

Core bond investors have experienced the worst start to the year ever. However tough this year has been so far though (and it has been tough), the potential for future returns has improved meaningfully, in our view. Starting yields...

IRS Makes Contribution Limit Changes for 2022

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Tuesday, December 14, 2021

The Internal Revenue Service announced that the amount individuals can contribute to their 401(k) plans in 2022 has increased to $20,500, up from $19,500 for 2021 and 2020.

What To Know About Potential Tax Changes in 2022

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Sunday, November 28, 2021

Though the final price tag of the Biden administration's infrastructure plan is not absolute, it may increase federal spending by about $3.5 trillion over the next decade.1 President Biden and his administration proposed changes to the...

The Stock Market, Economy, and New Year: Three Reasons To Be Thankful

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Monday, November 22, 2021

There are only six weeks to go in 2021 and it has been an incredible year for the stock market bulls. In fact, in many ways it could go down as one of the best years ever. This week, in honor of Thanksgiving, we wanted to take a...

Planning to Make New Year’s Resolutions Stick

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Tuesday, November 16, 2021

Will you make a New Year’s resolution this year? One of the smartest ones could be to get your finances in order. But keeping that promise to yourself is another matter. A lot of people make money resolutions. According to study...

RMD Roundup: A Few Key Updates About Required Minimum Distributions

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Tuesday, November 16, 2021

As we approach the end of 2021, now might be a good time to take a closer look at a few developments surrounding required minimum distributions (RMDs). What Are RMDs? Once you reach age 72, you are required to take minimum...

A Peek at Peak Inflation

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Monday, November 15, 2021

After an updside inflation surprise in October, it’s clear that peak inflation may still be ahead, possibly even pushing into 2022. While the Federal Reserve (Fed) maintains its position that elevated inflation will be...

Developed International: If Not Now, When?

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Monday, November 8, 2021

Since we began our investing careers, we’ve had the concept of diversification drilled into our heads. Some refer to it as the only free lunch in investing. Well, when it comes to geography, that advice hasn’t been helpful...

Retirement Mistakes to Fix Before the Holidays

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Monday, November 8, 2021

Spend as much time fixing your mistakes as you do planning the holidays You probably spend more time planning your holiday gathering than preparing for your golden years. As a result, you make basic mistakes in trying to fund your...

The Most Common Tax Tips Before Year End

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Sunday, November 7, 2021

Tax planning can be advantageous when done during the year and well in advance of year’s end. Opportunities exist for you to mitigate tax liability, which may leave more income for you and/or your family. Generally, people put...

November Letter to Clients

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Thursday, November 4, 2021

The past year and a half have tested all of us, but overall, the economy continues to strengthen, COVID-19 trends are greatly improving, and this still relatively young bull market is alive and well. As the leaves turn colors and begin...

5 Things That Might Spook Markets

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Monday, November 1, 2021

With Halloween over the weekend, what better to write about this week than what scares us? If our positive near-term market outlook proves to be overly optimistic, we believe one—or perhaps more than one—of these five...

Bullish Setup Into Year-End

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Tuesday, October 26, 2021

The S&P 500 Index has gained more than 20% so far this year, making more than 50 record highs along the way. Certainly nobody should be upset with that return if that was all 2021 brought us. However, we see signs that there could be...

How to Structure Charitable Giving Throughout Your Lifetime

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Sunday, October 24, 2021

Charitable giving is a way for affluent individuals spread their money around and to benefit causes that are near and dear to their hearts. Yet, for those who fall into the high net worth category, it is critical to structure...

Year-End Tax Planning

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Thursday, October 21, 2021

As the end of the year approaches, it's time to consider strategies that could help you reduce your tax bill. But most tax tips, suggestions, and strategies are of little practical help without a good understanding of your current tax...

Q3 Earnings Preview: Less Upside

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Monday, October 18, 2021

We have used most of the superlatives we know to describe corporate America’s stunning performances over the past two earnings seasons. Despite lofty expections, results exceeded estimates by the biggest margins we’ve ever...

End of Year Financial Planning

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Sunday, October 17, 2021

For some, it’s easy to put personal finances on the back burner during the last few months of the year. However, before the year comes to an end, it’s essential to review your finances. By doing so now, you can make the...

Answering the Top Debt Ceiling Questions

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Monday, October 11, 2021

Last week, Congress was able to push back a fast-approaching deadline for raising the debt ceiling to December. Markets applauded the move with a relief rally. Despite decreased uncertainty in the near term, we may be confronted with...

October Letter To Clients: Change May Bring Opportunities

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Friday, October 8, 2021

Dear Valued Client, One constant in life is change. During the past year and a half, we have experienced more change than any of us bargained for. Change is disruptive—but also brings opportunities. For investors right now, there...

Early Thoughts on 2022

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Tuesday, October 5, 2021

With the fourth quarter underway—historically the best quarter for stocks, by the way—2022 is fast approaching. While a lot can still happen between now and the end of 2021, we don’t think it’s too early to...

What Gen Xers, Millennials, and Baby Boomers Need to Know About Financial Planning

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Sunday, October 3, 2021

Financial planning is an important part of securing your current lifestyle as well as preparing yourself for what you wish to do in your eventual retirement. And while this importance may look different during each stage of your life,...

Five Tips To Finding A Financial Professional That Fits You And Your Family

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Wednesday, September 29, 2021

The financial professional you pick to manage your assets and advise you on key financial decisions may affect your retirement and other major financial goals more, maybe, than even you. Make the right choice. When trying to find a...

High Net-Worth Individuals: Are You Missing Opportunities in Your Financial Planning?

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Tuesday, September 21, 2021

High Net-Worth executives and those that have been self-employed, can experience common problems in their financial planning journey. Often, they have missed opportunities in their financial planning because they haven’t planned...

Top 5 Tips for Making Sound Financial Decisions

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Tuesday, September 21, 2021

Everyone needs to make smart financial decisions that steer them toward financial independence. When people thrive financially, they may feel less financial stress, leading them to accomplish short and long-term financial goals. Here...

Revisiting Our 10-Year Treasury Yield Forecast

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Monday, September 20, 2021

Until recently, we expected the 10-year Treasury yield to end the year between 1.75% and 2.0%. Now, however, there are two key elements suggesting we are unlikely to see significantly higher interest rates by year end: The Delta...

Policy Risks Loom But Clarity Ahead

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Monday, September 13, 2021

Several policy-related risks loom in September and October that may lead to an increase in market volatility. The debt ceiling needs to be raised (likely by mid-October), the government needs to be funded to avoid a shutdown by the...

The Bull Market Continues

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Friday, September 3, 2021

Dear Valued Investor: The bull market continues, with the S&P 500 Index now up seven months in a row. Stocks have impressively gained 20% year-to-date, with the S&P 500 making 53 new all-time highs before the end of...

Poking The Bear

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Monday, August 30, 2021

First and foremost, this week’s commentary should not be construed to suggest that we are saying stocks will go up forever. We are also not saying that stocks are immune from a pullback in the final four months of 2021....

Some Key Uses of Life Insurance

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Monday, August 23, 2021

Have you ever thought about the important role life insurance can play in helping you manage a variety of important financial objectives? Let’s look at some “slice of life” hypothetical examples and you’ll see...

Life Insurance and Charitable Giving

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Monday, August 23, 2021

Life insurance can be an excellent tool for charitable giving. Not only does life insurance allow you to make a substantial gift to charity at relatively little cost to you, but you may also benefit from tax rules that apply to gifts...

Life Insurance at Various Life Stages

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Monday, August 23, 2021

Your need for life insurance changes as your life changes. When you're young, you typically have less need for life insurance, but that changes as you take on more responsibility and your family grows. Then, as your responsibilities...

Life Insurance: Do You Have Enough?

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Monday, August 23, 2021

September is National Insurance Awareness Month which prompts the question of whether you are adequately covered. Right now is a great time to assess your insurance coverage and evaluate your risk of being underinsured. The importance...

Why Stagflation Isn’t In the Cards

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Monday, August 23, 2021

The term stagflation has been circulating increasingly in the financial media as inflation readings have risen sharply in recent months. The term is often associated with the 1970s, which saw runaway inflation—largely driven by...

Corporate America Does It Again

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Thursday, August 19, 2021

Corporate America did it again. Companies blew by estimates and made strategists and analysts look silly (though we humbly suggest that we may have looked less silly than most in our earnings preview on July 12). S&P 500 earnings...

Here Comes Friday The 13th

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Friday, August 13, 2021

“Friday the 13th is still better than Monday the whatever.” No known person to cite, but LPL Research can’t disagree. Today is the first Friday the 13th since November 2020. For most people, this is just another day,...

Tips to Keep Emotions and Investing Separate

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Tuesday, August 10, 2021

Reducing your emotions can give you a better chance for investing success Money is always an emotional subject, but often when our emotions get involved with our investments we will make wrong decisions. And that can be a costly...

Investing for Your Later Years? Think Asset Preservation but Don't Forget Growth

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Thursday, August 5, 2021

After years of investing for retirement and other goals, you may have accumulated a substantial portfolio. If you're approaching or already enjoying retirement, there are important steps that you can take to help ensure that your...

Did You Know Stocks Historically Peak in Early August?

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Monday, August 2, 2021

Hard to believe, but we are in August already! The good news is stocks are still firmly in a bull market, but the bad news is the calendar is a potential worry now. As shown in the LPL Chart of the Day, August and September have been...

Education: One of the Best Investments You Can Make

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Sunday, July 25, 2021

It wasn’t long ago when an individual went to college, got an education, and embarked on one career that usually lasted a lifetime. Many companies provided on-the-job training, and little emphasis was put on the idea of going...

Why Invest?

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Thursday, July 22, 2021

To accumulate wealth, people may choose to invest their money into various types of investments. Investing creates opportunities that otherwise would be difficult to manage due to the consistency of contributing to the investment....

The Recession Is Over, So What Happens Next?

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Wednesday, July 21, 2021

The National Bureau of Economic Research (NBER) announced yesterday that the COVID-19 recession is over. If things don’t feel all that different, it’s because they announced the recession ended in April 2020. Yes,...

Midyear Outlook 2021: Picking Up Speed

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Wednesday, July 14, 2021

The U.S. economy powered forward faster than nearly anyone had expected in the first half of 2021. Markets are always forward-looking and in LPL Research’s Midyear Outlook 2021: Picking Up Speed, we help you keep your eyes on the...

Five Financial Mistakes You Should Avoid

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Wednesday, July 7, 2021

These simple steps might save you a great deal of money and heartache We all make mistakes, and through them, we learn. But when it comes to finances, trial-and-error may not be the most suitable approach for you. Maybe you’re...

The Crazy Cost of the Olympic Games

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Monday, June 28, 2021

Since the first modern Olympic games in 1896, the competition has been a prestigious honor for the hosting country, but also a significant economic and structural undertaking. Billions of dollars are put toward the construction of new...

Five Factors that Impact Your Retirement

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Monday, June 28, 2021

Retirement can be a risky business if you don’t consider all the factors that can impact your retirement during your planning process. Although it’s hard to know what will happen in the future to you or your investments,...

Healthcare and the Sandwich Generation

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Monday, June 28, 2021

Members of the "Sandwich Generation"—or adults who have at least one parent over age 65 and at least one child who still requires financial support—often find themselves torn between their dual caregiving responsibilities.1...

Do You Have FOMO When it Comes to Investing?

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Thursday, June 24, 2021

Fear-of-missing-out is a very real emotion – but it can derail your portfolio Every day we’re bombarded with reports of what’s hot and what’s not – fueling a fear-of-missing-out (FOMO) on some great...

Starting a Business With a Friend: Do’s and Don’ts

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Tuesday, June 22, 2021

It is estimated that about 40 percent of business founders were friends before they became business partners.[1] But while starting a business with a friend can be a great way to secure your financial future, it can also put new and...

The Perils of Trying to Time the Stock Market

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Friday, June 4, 2021

The end of March 2021 marked the one-year anniversary of the stock market bottom and the end of the shortest bear market on record. Since then the U.S. stock markets have quickly reached new highs, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average...

June Swoon?

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Friday, June 4, 2021

lthough there was some notable weakness in the middle of May, the S&P 500 Index was able to rally late in the month to finish with a modest gain. Incredibly, this was the eighth year out of the past nine that stocks gained during in...

The Sandwich Generation: A Growing U.S. Concern

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Thursday, June 3, 2021

As the U.S. population continues to age, the “sandwich generation” is caught in the middle, supporting both their parents and their children, whether financially, physically, or emotionally. This generation is the...

Three Things Investors Can Learn From Phil Mickelson’s Win

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Friday, May 28, 2021

Congrats to Phil Mickelson on his amazing victory on Sunday at the PGA Championship at the age of 50, officially the oldest person to ever win a golf major championship. This was Lefty’s 6th major victory, leaving him just a win...

10 Tips for Small Biz Owners

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Tuesday, May 11, 2021

Small business owners should conduct an annual assessment of their personal finances. Owners of small businesses have much the same concerns as everyone else, except they are personally responsible for the fortunes of their enterprise....

Get SMART: Tips for Effective Goal Setting

Chad Taylor, CFP®

Tuesday, April 27, 2021

Regardless of which phase of the business life-cycle you’re in, you can get SMART about setting goals to motivate yourself, move forward to grow your business, and track your success. SMART goal setting for small business owners...