What’s Growing in Your Financial Garden?

Gardening is one of my favorite ways to spend a summer Sunday afternoon. There is something truly exciting about planting and tending towards a fabulous harvest. Growing up, I spent many summers learning from the best- my grandparents. For them, gardening was a retirement hobby, but for my siblings and me, it was a wonderful […]
A Look at the Market – May 2024 Update

The stock market had a very strong May with S&P 500 up 4.96%. Year to Date the SPX is now up 11.30% (with dividends reinvested). The market continues to be led by the “Magnificent 7” up 10.38% in May and 21.68% YTD. The Mag 7 ( NVidia, Apple, Microsoft, Meta, Alphabet, Amazon and Tesla) make […]
Self Employed Tax Guide: Essential Tips for Small Business Owners

Self Employed Tax Guide: Essential Tips for Small Business Owners Being self-employed comes with many perks—flexibility, independence, and the satisfaction of building something from the ground up. However, it also brings significant responsibilities, particularly when it comes to taxes. For small business owners, understanding and managing taxes is crucial for financial health and long-term success. […]
Graduation Season for Empty Nesters

Graduation Season for Empty Nesters Shh, do you hear that? It’s the newfound silence of having an empty house. Finally, freedom! With graduation season upon us, it is no doubt that many parents are gearing up for the new feel of being an empty nester. For those soon to be celebrating your child’s college graduation, […]
Am I in the Ballpark for Retirement? – 7 Key Tips to Ensure a Comfortable Future

You hear it all the time, “retirement must be coming soon, huh?” or, “when are you going to hang it up?” You may have a retirement age picked out, or not know when you are going to retire at all. When asking yourself, “Am I in the ballpark for retirement?” it is important to base […]
Jakob Brost Selected as Member of STANDOUT Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Class of 2024

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Jakob Brost, a member of the John G. Ullman & Associates, Inc. (JGUA) financial advisor team, has been selected for the STANDOUT Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Class of 2024. Nominations for STANDOUT were provided by the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation – Western Carolinas Chapter’s Board of Directors, the STANDOUT event committee, and numerous individuals […]
Beyond Salary: Leveraging Employee Benefits for Financial Well-Being

In today’s job market, focusing solely on salary when evaluating a job offer is increasingly seen as a narrow approach. A comprehensive employee benefits package can significantly enhance your financial well-being and overall quality of life. This blog post delves into the myriad ways you can leverage employee benefits to fortify your financial health, beyond […]
Financial Planning for a Future Together

Firstly, congratulations on embarking on this exciting journey! Whether you’re welcoming a fur baby, getting engaged, moving in together, or soon planning to say “I do”. These milestones signal important conversations ahead. While discussing finances might not be the most romantic topic, it’s crucial for planning your future together. When it comes to managing finances in a relationship, there […]
A Look at the Market – April 2024 Update

The S&P 500 had a total return of -4.1% for the month of April. This was its worst monthly return since September last year and is being driven by interest rate movements that have turned higher, once again. 10-Year Treasury Yield Increases to 4.6%. Source: Bloomberg Investors are now weighing the risk/reward scenarios from “risk-free” […]
Refining Your Estate Plan: Updates to Consider After Completing Your Taxes

Phew, tax season is done! Tax returns are filed, or maybe they are on extension. While you may be quick to diligently pack them away with prior year’s returns, don’t do so quite yet! Right now is probably the closest you will be to all your finances, and is an optimal time to take a […]