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 […]
Tax Planning Beyond April 15th: Strategies for Year-Round Tax Efficiency
Tax season might only come around once a year, but saving on taxes is a year-round endeavor. By considering tax saving strategies throughout the year, you can minimize your tax burden and keep more of your hard-earned money in your pocket. Stay Organized: Good recordkeeping is the foundation of effective tax planning. Keep track of […]
A Look at the Market – March 2024 Update
The stock market continued its robust performance in Q1 2024 driven by big technology stocks with Generative Artificial Intelligence investment theses. The overall economy on an aggregate basis has also been strong with unemployment and inflation rates trending lower and now both at 3.8%. The S&P 500 index reached an all-time high on March 28. […]
The Tax-Conscious Investor: Maximizing Returns by Minimizing Taxation
In today’s complex financial landscape, savvy investors understand that building a portfolio shouldn’t just be about maximizing your return for a certain level of risk. More and more people are starting to realize that you must consider the tax components of your investments, as it can have a big effect on what you are actually […]
Why a Large Tax Refund is Not Always a Good Thing
When I was a young adult, like many others, I enjoyed the excitement of tax time and the amount of money I would get back. I would dream of what fun and exciting things I might do with this “extra money.” Then, when starting my career in financial services, I learned the real truth behind […]
The Psychology of Retirement: Navigating the Emotional Aspects of Life’s Next Chapter
Disney Pixar’s 2015 film, Inside Out, tells the story of the emotional conflicts of Riley, an eleven year old girl. Her dad gets a new job and moves the family from the upper Midwest to San Francisco, a move that upsets her entire world. Five emotions, Joy, Sadness, Fear, Disgust, and Anger all make their […]
Compound Growth: Build Your Wealth Exponentially
One common misconception many of us have when it comes to investing is that it is too late to start. Whether you’re thinking about retirement, buying a new home, or even assisting your kids through college, it is never too late to start. One of the main reasons it is never too late to start […]
A Look at the Market – February 2024 Update
February proved to be another good month for the stock market as the S&P 500 stock index rallied 4% driven by investor excitement on Generative Artificial Intelligence and optimism on the overall economy. The strong market rally was across all sectors from Consumer Discretionary and Energy to Industrials and Technology. This market rally was in […]
New Year, New Budget: How to Refresh Your Financial Plan
The Budgeting Process Summary: The beginning of the New Year is the perfect time to budget for this upcoming year. To start planning your budget, begin by calculating the after-tax income of your yearly salary. After-tax income is calculated by subtracting the amount you receive after automatic deductions for a 401(K), health insurance, and life […]
