The new month brings two major market-moving stories to digest. First is the advances in artificial intelligence (AI) by Chinese startup DeepSeek. It has caused some investors to question America’s lead in the AI race and American Exceptionalism more broadly. To answer that question, it’s important to look at this idea holistically. U.S. advantages in research and development spending, capital markets depth, the dollar’s privilege as the global reserve currency, and more
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Financial Blog
AI Advances and Tariff Tactics
February 6, 2025Strategic Tax Insights for High-Net-Worth Individuals
January 24, 2025
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. Strategic tax planning is also integral to HNWI's wealth management because it allows them to manage their tax liability as they work toward their financial goals. While every individual's situation is unique, the following are some essential strategic tax i
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Another Strong Year for Stocks
January 9, 2025Stocks had another very strong year in 2024. In fact, 2024 marked the first time the S&P 500 has enjoyed a +20% gain in back-to-back years since 1997–98. Last year didn’t start out so optimistically though. The list of worries among stock-market bears included high valuations, narrow leadership by the largest technology stocks, rising long-term interest rates, election uncertainty, deficit spending, and more. Stocks rallied through all of that without so much as one 10% correctio
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The Tax Impact on Trusts After 2025
December 30, 2024
Many are interested in the impact of future tax legislation on Trusts. As we look ahead to 2025, it is crucial to understand how the evolving tax landscape may impact the administration, structuring, and distribution of Trusts. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA), signed into law in 2017, overhauled the U.S. tax code with sweeping tax cuts and changes. However, some of these provisions expire on December 31st, 2025, while others remain.Several factors may change the taxation of Trusts.Estate and gi
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A November to Remember
December 5, 2024Solid gains for stocks gave investors a November to remember. In fact, the S&P 500’s more than 5% advance marked its best month of 2024. Several factors played into the stock market’s continued move higher. The U.S. economy continued its steady run of solid growth. The Federal Reserve (Fed) cut interest rates as expected, providing some reassurance about the outlook for inflation. Third quarter earnings season was solid, revealing that corporate America still has double-digit ear
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One Last Gift: Wrapping Up Your Financial Contributions Before the New Year
December 5, 2024
The end of the year is not just a season for celebration and reflection but also a perfect time to ensure that our finances are in order. This includes crucial aspects such as wrapping up all financial contributions before the year-end for retirement savings plans such as Keogh, Solo 401(k), and 401(k) and making strategic decisions about selling stock to realize gains or losses.Here's how to 'wrap up' contributions and tax-savings strategies promptly before the year-end IRS deadline
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Donald Trump Elected 47th President of the United States of America
November 7, 2024Donald Trump was elected the 47th president of the United States, defeating Vice President Kamala Harris thanks to strong performance in key swing states that gave him 277 electoral votes to 224 for Harris (according to The Associated Press, while five states have yet to be called). The gains at the top of the Republican ticket filtered down to state-level races, where Republicans achieved a majority in the Senate by flipping three seats to take a 52-seat majority, with several tight races still
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Year-End Countdown: Key Deadlines You Cannot Afford to Miss
November 4, 2024
As the year comes to a close, there are some important deadlines that you shouldn’t ignore. These deadlines affect your taxes, savings, and, perhaps, your financial future. Here’s a simple guide to help you stay on track before this year’s clock runs out. December 31st: Retirement Contributions Make sure to contribute to your 401(k) by the end of the year to manage your taxable income and potentially stash more money for retirement. December 31st: Charitable Donations Are yo
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Beyond the Federal Reserve Rate Cuts
October 4, 2024Finally! For the first time in more than four years, on September 18, the Federal Reserve (Fed) cut interest rates. While the debate over how big the cut would be was settled (a half point, not a quarter), questions about where the Fed will go from here and what it might mean for the economy and markets will continue.The Fed matters, but let’s consider the possibility it’s been getting too much attention. Since the Fed’s announcement, the 10-year yield has risen, not fallen. Th
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How to Boost Your FAFSA Eligibility in 6 Simple Steps
October 1, 2024
Student financial aid, like most anything financially related, involves strategy and a bit of finesse to make your money and time work for you. Some might believe that receiving the offer you were hoping for from the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is a matter of luck. However, there is more to it than that. There are, in fact, measures that can be taken to enhance the amount of aid you may be eligible for. Here are six simple steps to boost your FAFSA eligibility:
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The U.S. Economy and Financial Markets: Passing the Tests
September 6, 2024With fall upon us and students back in classrooms, it seems like a good time to reflect on the various tests that the U.S. economy and stock market have passed recently. When the economy and markets are tested, the foundation for future growth and capital appreciation gets stronger.The Federal Reserve (Fed) engineered one of its most aggressive rate-tightening campaigns ever in 2022 and 2023, providing a tough test for the U.S. economy. Amid widespread calls for recession, the economy chugged ri
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529 College Savings Plans: For Education and Estate Planning
September 6, 2024
529 College Savings plans are essential for saving for higher education expenses, and if used for education, accumulate tax-free. Since 529 plans came into existence in 1996, their popularity has continued to increase, with 529 plan assets crossing the $400 billion mark in 2021, according to Morningstar. 529 plans are qualified tuition plans that allow state and federal tax-free withdrawals of earnings and have the potential for tax deductions, which help offset the increasing cost of secondary
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Five Practical Steps to Build an Emergency Fund
August 1, 2024
Helps avoid costly financial decisions and encourage stability in turbulent times In today's unpredictable world, having an emergency fund is not just a financial recommendation – it's a necessity. The reality of unexpected expenses, whether they come from a medical emergency, sudden unemployment, or urgent home repairs, can create significant financial stress. An emergency fund acts as a financial safety net, empowering you to manage these unforeseen costs without resort
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July Market Update
July 8, 2024Stocks finished the first half of the year the same way they started — with solid gains. Strong rallies from big tech names, combined with somewhat softer economic and inflation data, helped propel the S&P 500 to its seventh monthly gain in the past eight months and set dozens of new record highs along the way. As we close the book on a strong first half for the stock market, we celebrate America’s 248th birthday.
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5 Keys for Productive Family Wealth Meetings
July 3, 2024
Holding family meetings can dramatically increase the odds that your wealth contributes to the thriving of future generations and the continuation of your family values. How to make family meetings a family tradition We’ve all seen an example of the unintended consequences of wealth, and there’s no denying its impact on family members. But what if there was a tradition that could dramatically increase the odds that your wealth contributes to the thriving of future generations and the
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LTC Planning for High-Net-Worth Families
July 2, 2024
Long-term care (LTC) planning is a significant financial decision that requires thoughtful consideration and precise planning. This undertaking can be more complex for high-net-worth families due to a more extensive and diverse asset base and other considerations. LTC costs can unravel even the most thoughtful financial plans if not planned for, undermining suitable wealth management strategies. Understanding the intricacies of an LTC plan becomes even more critical for families with substantial
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A Guide for High-Net-Worth Individuals in the Sandwich Generation
July 1, 2024
Wealth and estate planning are vital for all individuals but are particularly essential for high-net-worth (HNW) individuals in the sandwich generation. "Sandwich generation" refers to individuals caring for their aging parents and children simultaneously. Not only do these individuals have to consider their wealth management, but they also must plan how their assets will be distributed among their family members if they die while caring for others.This guide outlines seven critical we
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A Quick Guide to 529 Plans and College Savings: Dispelling Common Myths and Misc
June 1, 2024
529 plans are a tool for those looking to save for college for their children, grandchildren, or any family member. While most people know that they are one of the most popular saving methods for college, many myths surrounding these plans may make you hesitant to open one. So, in honor of 529 College Savings Day, let’s dispel some of the most common myths associated with these plans. Myth #1: 529 Plans Have Income Restrictions While some college savings plans have income limitations to r
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From Riches To Rags In Three Generations: Managing Generational Wealth Checklist
June 1, 2024
When discussing multigenerational wealth it is common to come across proverbs that acknowledge the fact that generational wealth typically won’t make it past the third generation. In the United States the saying goes, “from shirtsleeves to shirtsleeves in three generations.” [i] In China it is said, “rags to rags in three generations.” [ii] Generational wealth encompasses financial assets with a monetary value. These include investments, real estate, land, cash, col
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Generational Wealth and the Gift of Financial Freedom
June 1, 2024
Those who receive an inheritance with the passing of a loved one are potentially given the gift of financial freedom if they choose to manage the wealth carefully. Did you know that only about one-third of adults have a prepared will, and about 40% with investable assets of $1 million or more never discuss their estate plans with their children? The reality, however, is that the percentage of squandered inheritances is troubling. Studies indicate that 70% of inheritances are exhausted by the sec
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3 Key Money Moves Every Parent Should Make
June 1, 2024
Whether you are expecting your first child or have been a parent for years, finances and building a future for your family go hand-in-hand. Luckily, there are money moves you can make now to help manage financial stress, support yourself and your loved ones, and help your children as they get older. Here are three key financial moves all parents should consider making. Review and Update Your Life Insurance For many, life insurance is a necessary but unmanaged expense for a good reason. It is no
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May Market Updates
May 24, 2024After a strong first quarter for stocks, some April showers rained down as the S&P 500 fell about 4% last month. Hopefully those showers will bring some flowers in May, despite the widely cited stock market adage, “Sell in May and go away.” There is some merit to this old adage because the S&P 500’s best six-month returns have, on average, come from November through April, and its worst between May and October (recall bear markets often end in October). Still, historica
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Money Matters: Financial Literacy For The Whole Family
May 6, 2024
Financial literacy is crucial, not only for adults but for everyone in the family. When you have a good foundation of financial literacy, you will have a greater understanding of money and prepare yourself for a brighter financial future. Ready to improve the financial literacy of your family? Below are a few ways to get started. Help Them Understand How Money Works One of the first steps in teaching your family financial literacy is helping everyone understand where the money comes from. When
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The Great Wealth Transfer: Is Your Family Prepared?
May 3, 2024
The Great Wealth Transfer: Is Your Family Prepared?Over the next twenty years, a wealth transfer will occur that exceeds $30 trillion as the Baby Boomer generation passes the remainder of their wealth to the Millennials and subsequent generations. The Baby Boomers (born 1946-1964) are considered the wealthiest generation, currently controlling 70% of the disposable income in the United States. It is imperative families develop a plan to transfer assets since the transfer of wealth is inevitable.
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The Best Investment: Teaching Your Children to Save and Invest
May 2, 2024
The Best Investment: Teaching Your Children to Save and Invest A 2022 Gallup Poll found that 58% of all adult Americans own stock. The top 1% owns more than half the total amount invested among those who own stock. 1 Making investing possible for your children, nieces, nephews and other loved ones may be the key to improving their financial future and getting them off to a good start in adulthood. Here are a few ways to help your children develop good habits regarding saving and inve
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The Power of Intergenerational Relationships
May 1, 2024
Interpersonal relationships lie at the heart of the human experience. Interacting with others and forging new connections brings a whole host of benefits, especially across generations.Bonds between younger and older people within their families and communities enable each to view the world from diverse perspectives, providing them with a chance to develop mentally and emotionally and stay engaged no matter their age. Whether the relationship is biological, a mentorship, or a friendship, everyon
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April Market Updates
April 25, 2024The first quarter is in the books, and it was an excellent one for stocks. The S&P 500 index rode a resilient U.S. economy, easing inflation, rising corporate profits, and anticipation of summertime rate cuts from the Federal Reserve (Fed) to solid gains in March, the fifth straight winning month, and the best first quarter since 2019. With stocks having done so well, it's natural to think about selling. If you haven't rebalanced in a while and hold more equities than targets...
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Talking To Your Children About Inheritance: A Checklist
April 1, 2024
Entrusting family members with receiving an inheritance is more than just getting a hold of assets or a check in the mail. It is about understanding how to steward the hard-earned wealth that you and your spouse spent your lives building.
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Financial Snapshots: Taking Fiscal Inventory
April 1, 2024
Most of us find the notion of creating (and sticking to) a budget about as appealing as spring cleaning chores. And, with the stress that usually accompanies tax filing hopefully behind you, you may not be inclined just now to tackle a financial reckoning. However, since the tax season probably motivated you to get part of your financial house in order, why not complete the job with a little spring "photography?"
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Thriving Through Financial Stress: Lessons for High-Net-Worth Families
April 1, 2024
April is Stress Awareness Month, and there's no better time to reflect on and address the stressors that may impact our lives. Financial stress is an interesting challenge for high-net-worth individuals and families since most financial advice tends to be targeted toward those earning less. Instead, you need a tailored approach that acknowledges your specific challenges. Here are a few tips and strategies that may help high-net-worth families navigate and thrive through financial stress.
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Spring Cleaning Your Investments
April 1, 2024
Here are seven steps to making your portfolio cleaner and more efficient.
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March Market Update
March 14, 2024As spring approaches, the weather is starting to warm up. For the stock market, the temperature has been rising for a while now.
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4 Tax Planning Tips for High-Net-Worth Families
March 1, 2024
Tax planning might be complex, but its also essential, especially for high-net-worth 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, with the highest marginal federal tax rate sitting at 37% for 2024 (plus additional state and local taxes), a lack of tax planning could mean you keep less than half of every dollar you earn.
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2023-2024 Quick View Tax Guide
March 1, 2024
2023-2024 Quick View Tax Guide
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Little Known Tax Credits for Business Owners
March 1, 2024
Nurturing a community, fostering growth and making a positive impact. 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 community at large. Your commitment to hiring practices that uplift veterans, marginalized communities, and those facing barriers to employment is commendable.
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Tax Benefits of Qualified Small Business Stock
March 1, 2024
A valuable opportunity for founders and investors, but legislation looms. For founders and investors in start-ups, qualified small business stock (QSBS) offers a significant tax advantage that can be likened to a generous gift from the IRS. This tax provision allows shareholders to potentially realize substantial tax-free gains, providing a compelling incentive to invest in qualifying small businesses.
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February Market Update
February 13, 2024Stocks are off to a solid start in 2024.
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SECURE Act 2.0: What Business Owners Need to Know for 2024
February 1, 2024
The Setting Every Community Up for Retirement Enhancement (SECURE) Act, passed into law in December 2019, had significant implications for business owners and employees regarding retirement savings and tax rules. With some of SECURE Act 2.0s provisions starting in 2024, business owners must know how it may impact their situation. SECURE Act 2.0 features a host of potential changes for 2024, including adjustments to RMD rules, auto-enrollment retirement plans, changes to catch-up
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How to Estimate Your Quarterly Taxes as a Small Business Owner
February 1, 2024
For profitable small businesses, paying quarterly estimated taxes is part of the tax process to potentially avoid penalties at the end of your fiscal year. The quarterly taxes for a business are the estimated taxes that will be owed at the end of the year. Or, in some cases where businesses may see ebbs and flows, it may be based on the taxes they would owe based on each quarters profit. Getting Started. Before estimating your quarterly tax payments, you must gather some information.
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Sharing the Love: A Family Business Succession Plan Checklist
February 1, 2024
Valentines Day represents love, but not just for couples. You can also spread the love through sharing your family business succession plan with the loved ones you hope will take over the reins of the company you spent your life building. Here is a seven-step checklist to help you with your succession planning. 1. Creating manageable goals and objectives. The business leader must set goals and design objectives to help smooth the transition and integrate strategies to prepare should
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Legacy of Love: 10 Questions to Help Families Prepare for a Wealth Transfer
February 1, 2024
Wealth transfer is more than just a financial transaction; its 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 commitment to preserving family unity. Here are ten essential questions that families may ask themselves as they embark on the journey of wealth transfer. 1. What Values Define Our Family? Before diving into the specifics of transferring assets, its
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January Market Update
January 26, 2024Stocks defied the skeptics in a very unpredictable 2023. The Dow Jones finished at an all-time record high on December 28, and the S&P 500 came within a whisker of a fresh all-time high after the index rallied more than 20% for the year.It wasn’t only stock investors who had plenty to cheer about. Bond portfolios, which struggled mightily along with stocks in 2022, staged a furious late-year rally. Bloomberg’s broad bond market benchmark returned a solid 5.5% for the year after b
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A Business Owner’s Guide to Equity Compensation
January 2, 2024
As a business owner, understanding the various strategies for rewarding and incentivizing your employees is vital for employee retention and business growth.
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ESG Investing: The New Frontier for Environmentally Conscious Investors
January 1, 2024
Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) investing is on the rise throughout the world. Here are some definitions and considerations to make when diving into the ins and outs of ESG investments.
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8 Financial Wellness Tips to Help Manage Generational Wealth
January 1, 2024
Asset management and financial wellness can help develop long-term confidence when wealth transfers from generation to generation.
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6 Business Goals for a Prosperous New Year
January 1, 2024
The new year is here, and it is the perfect time to set up resolutions for your business.
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Outlook 2024: A Turning Point
December 15, 2023
In 2024, LPL Research believes markets will make a definitive turn to a more recognizable place. En route, the transition will be marked by meaningful shifts in a few key areas. Inflation is going down. The risk of a recession is bubbling up again as the effect of post-pandemic stimulus wanes. And the end of the Federal Reserve’s (Fed) rate-hiking campaign is indeed upon us.Where the last two years had investors focused on inflation, market volatility, and striving for a sense of economic
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Time to Consider Your New Year Resolutions
December 1, 2023
Resolve to make your finances a priority with proper planning and guidance For many people, the month of December and the New Year are times for personal reflection, a time to consider commitments and resolutions for the coming year. This year, why not resolve to make your finances a priority? With proper planning and appropriate guidance, you can begin to build financial confidence and prepare for the uncertainties of tomorrow. Consider the following steps: Get Organized. Gather all
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Stock Market Stocking Stuffers: How To Give Stock as a Gift
December 1, 2023
If you struggle to find a gift for the person who has everything—or want to do your holiday shopping without having to leave the house—consider giving stock as a gift. Doing so is easier than you think, and it may offer a few benefits for you as well. Here is some information on giving stock as gifts and the benefits of doing so. What Are the Benefits of Gifting Stock? When it comes to giving stock as gifts, there is one key benefit for both the giver and the re
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Year-End Charitable Giving
December 1, 2023
With the holiday season upon us and the end of the year approaching, we pause to give thanks for our blessings and the people in our lives. It is also a time when charitable giving often comes to mind. The tax benefits associated with charitable giving could potentially enhance your ability to give and should be considered as part of your year-end tax planning. Tax deduction for charitable gifts If you itemize deductions on your federal income tax return, you can generally deduct your gifts to
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Year-End Tax Planning Considerations for Capital Gains
December 1, 2023
As the end of the year approaches, investors need to focus on tax-related considerations, particularly regarding capital gains. Year-end tax planning can help investors manage their overall tax liability while seeking to manage investments for suitable tax outcomes. In this article, we explore four key tax planning areas for capital gains: what it is, tax law changes, tax efficiency, and offsetting capital losses. Understanding Capital Gains First, having a good understanding of the concept of
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Market Update: Offering Thanks
November 8, 2023The penultimate month of the year is often a time to reflect and offer thanks. And while economic and geopolitical uncertainty can overshadow the positives, there are thin
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Understanding Capital Gains Tax as an Investor
October 31, 2023
As an investor, you may be impacted by capital gains if you sell your investment – whether at a gain or loss. Understanding capital gains may help with your overall investment strategy and the potential to preserve your wealth. Below are a few insights into capital gains to help you acquire competency on the subject matter in preparation for a consultation with a financial professional to review your portfolio. What is capital gains tax?A capital gain is a profit made from selling an
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Year-end Tax Planning for High-Net-Worth Individuals
October 31, 2023
As the year’s end approaches, High-Net-Worth Individuals (HNWIs) must prepare for one of the most critical monetary tasks: year-end tax planning. Due to the nature of their holdings and dynamic financial situation, HNWIs often grapple with complex tax management issues. With astute planning, mitigating significant tax liability may be possible.First, comprehensive tax planning involves critically reviewing current income and projected future earnings. Review helps ensure that you're op
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RMD Relief and Guidance for 2023
October 31, 2023
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 releasing final regulations so that it can address additional changes to RMDs made by the SECURE 2.0 Act of 2022, which was passed in late 2022. In the meantime, the IRS has issued interim RMD relief and guidance for 2023. Final RMD regulations, when issued, will not ap
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Understanding Tax Loss Harvesting
October 31, 2023
What is Tax Loss Harvesting?When investments in taxable accounts do not perform as hoped and actually lose value, investors may be able to take advantage of tax benefits to help offset their losses. The concept of tax loss harvesting is fairly straightforward. It involves identifying investments that have lost value and selling them in order to generate capital losses. Then, investors can use those losses to offset capital gains realized by other investments during the tax year, thereby seeking
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Investing vs. Saving: Key Differences and Why Your Money Mindset Matters
October 1, 2023
You often hear people discuss "saving for retirement,” but in many cases, they're actually referring to their investing. The adage "you can't save your way to wealth" is simplistic, but has a kernel of truth; putting your money in a savings account often won't be enough to outpace the rate of inflation, which can erode the value of your savings over time. Below, we discuss some of the key differences between investing and saving and how to choose the most optimal
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High Net-Worth Individuals: Are You Missing Opportunities in Your Financial Plan
October 1, 2023
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 adequately for their retirement even though they make a high income.It’s easy to think that everything will work out with their retirement plan, and it can, but a high-income often masks the reality of having a deficit once a career ends. Just like average in
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Financial Planning Challenges and Strategies for the Sandwich Generation
October 1, 2023
Financial Planning Challenges and Strategies for the Sandwich Generation Almost half of all adults are part of the "sandwich generation." These are adults in their 40s and 50s who are helping support or care for a parent while also supporting or caring for a child.1 Being caught between two generations of loved ones who require care can be both financially and emotionally draining, but there are ways to reduce the pressure. Here are three financial planning challenges the sandwich ge
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Executive Compensation: Equity Compensation for Corporate Executives
October 1, 2023
You have probably heard about financial planning and its potential benefits, but you are unsure how to apply the principles to your life. A financial plan is a collection of steps that help you to evaluate your financial condition and determine how to prepare for your financial future. A financial plan may impact every aspect of your life, from your credit score to your savings, investments, spending habits, and retirement. This guide will discuss some steps to help you get a foothold to begin t
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Reading, Writing, and…Education Planning
September 1, 2023
The earlier you start saving, the easier it will be to send your kids to college The month of September is when many parents are preparing to send children back to school this fall. While the checklists grow and the kids soak in the last few minutes of summer break, it’s important to remember college planning and back-to-school shopping. While getting an education can be difficult at times, paying for it can feel like climbing up an unending hill. More and more adults are going b
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Understanding 401(k) and IRA Withdrawals for Education Expenses
September 1, 2023
A student's education expenses may be reduced when a parent uses their tax-advantaged retirement account to help cover tuition and other related costs. With many students graduating with college loan debt, using a 401(k) or IRA may help lessen the burden of paying off education-related debt. However, before deciding to withdraw from a 401(k) or an IRA, knowing the rules and how they may impact you is essential. Usually, if one withdraws money from a 401(k) or IRA before age 59 1/2, they will
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Tax-Advantaged Ways to Save for College
August 28, 2023
In the college savings game, all strategies aren't created equal. The best savings vehicles offer special tax advantages if the funds are used to pay for college. Tax-advantaged strategies are important because over time, you can potentially accumulate more money with a tax-advantaged investment compared to a taxable investment. Ideally, though, you'll want to choose a savings vehicle that offers you the best combination of tax advantages, financial aid benefits, and flexibility, while m
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Teaching Your College-Age Child about Money
August 28, 2023
When your child first started school, you doled out the change for milk and a snack on a daily basis. But now that your kindergartner has grown up, it's time for you to make sure that your child has enough financial knowledge to manage money at college. Lesson 1: Budgeting 101 Perhaps your child already understands the basics of budgeting from having to handle an allowance or wages from a part-time job during high school. But now that your child is in college, he or she may need to draft a
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Five Keys to Investing for Retirement
July 20, 2023
Making decisions about your retirement account can seem overwhelming, especially if you feel unsure about your knowledge of investments. However, the following basic rules can help you make smarter choices regardless of whether you have some investing experience or are just getting started. Don't lose ground to inflation It's easy to see how inflation affects gas prices, electric bills, and the cost of food; over time, your money buys less and less. But what inflation does to your inve
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Five Keys to Investing for Retirement
July 20, 2023
Making decisions about your retirement account can seem overwhelming, especially if you feel unsure about your knowledge of investments. However, the following basic rules can help you make smarter choices regardless of whether you have some investing experience or are just getting started. Don't lose ground to inflation It's easy to see how inflation affects gas prices, electric bills, and the cost of food; over time, your money buys less and less. But what inflation does to your inve
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Taxation of Investments
July 20, 2023
It's nice to own stocks, bonds, and other investments. Nice, that is, until it's time to fill out your federal income tax return. At that point, you may be left scratching your head. Just how do you report your investments and how are they taxed? Is it ordinary income or a capital gain? To determine how an investment vehicle is taxed in a given year, first ask yourself what went on with the investment that year. Did it generate interest income? If so, the income is probably considered o
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Investing for Major Financial Goals
July 20, 2023
Go out into your yard and dig a big hole. Every month, throw $50 into it, but don't take any money out until you're ready to buy a house, send your child to college, or retire. It sounds a little crazy, doesn't it? But that's what investing without setting clear-cut goals is like. If you're lucky, you may end up with enough money to meet your needs, but you have no way to know for sure. How do you set goals? The first step in investing is defining your dreams for the future.
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Celebrating Independence and Independent Retailers During Independent Retailer M
July 1, 2023
July is Independent Retailer Month, which is the perfect time to show your support for locally owned businesses that rely primarily on community support. Independent retailers are essential to communities as they are more likely to put money back into their local economy than national retailers. Why Independent Retailers Are Important Every dollar spent at an independent retailer may pass through the community five to 10 times before moving elsewhere. For each dollar spent at a local independen
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Generational Wealth and the Gift of Financial Freedom
July 1, 2023
Those who receive an inheritance with the passing of a loved one are potentially given the gift of financial freedom if they choose to manage the wealth carefully. Did you know that only about one-third of adults have a prepared will, and about 40% with investable assets of $1 million or more never discuss their estate plans with their children? The reality, however, is that the percentage of squandered inheritances is troubling. Studies indicate that 70% of inheritances are exhausted by the sec
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Financial Freedom, Market Volatility, and You
July 1, 2023
If recent market volatility has you questioning your opportunities for financial freedom, you are not alone. Due to rising inflation, higher interest rates, a volatile stock market, and recession fears, many investors find themselves wondering how to proceed.Fortunately, history may help gain perspective on this market. Those who weather volatility might have more resilience. Here are some tips and tricks to help you deal with market volatility and assess the quality of your current investments.
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Freedom, Fireworks, and Fueling the FIRE (Financial Independence, Retire Early)
July 1, 2023
Freedom is not won by sitting idly and hoping for a miracle. Financial freedom requires vision, courage, and sacrifice for a higher goal. The Financial Independence, Retire Early (FIRE) movement is a part of that vision. What Is the FIRE Movement? The FIRE movement, inspired by the 1992 book "Your Money or Your Life," includes people who want to be financially independent at a young age. They may be able to quit work decades early. The earliest members of this movement saved and inves
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Financing Options for Homebuyers and Homeowners
June 22, 2023
For first-time homebuyers and homeowners who are considering refinancing their current mortgages, trying to decide between a fixed or an adjustable rate mortgage (ARM) can be a bit puzzling.
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Tax Benefits of Homeownership
June 5, 2023
Many of the tax benefits associated with home ownership apply mainly to your principal residence — different rules apply to second homes and investment properties. Here's what you need to know to make owning a home really pay off at tax time.
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Umbrella Liability Insurance
June 5, 2023
When your local weather forecaster tells you that it's going to rain, what do you do? That's easy--you reach for your umbrella. So why not purchase an umbrella that can protect you in stormy financial weather? Umbrella liability insurance (ULI) can do just that.
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5 Homeowner Estate Planning Tips to Consider
June 5, 2023
Estate planning helps disperse your assets according to your wishes. The effort may seem daunting at first, but estate planning does not have to be overly complicated. With the proper planning, you may find yourself resting a little easier knowing you have an estate plan in place. While an estate plan is personalized to the wants and needs of each person, here are a few tips to help anyone get started.
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