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Monday, September 25, 2023

The income tax benefits offered by 529 plans make these plans attractive to parents (and others) who are saving for college or K-12 tuition. Qualified withdrawals from a 529 plan are tax free at the federal level, and some states also...

Monday, September 18, 2023

For many, autumn is the best time of year. The return of cool breezes, comforting foods, and pumpkins can be invigorating. It’s also a bookmark of sorts, especially for your finances—a perfect time to take stock of your...

Friday, September 8, 2023

Consider combining investment gains with social good via an approach called Impact Investing. This can include a focus on Environmental, Social and Governance investing (ESG), or Socially Responsible Investing (SRI), two approaches...

Tuesday, September 5, 2023

By focusing on goals and priorities, you can create a new, simplified lifestyle As retirement approaches, many older adults consider downsizing their home as a way to simplify their lives, reduce expenses, and focus on what truly...

Friday, August 25, 2023

Even if you are already retired, it doesn't mean you should stop trying to grow your savings. Inflation, unexpected medical bills, and changes to your lifestyle or family may result in the need for additional income than you initially...

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Friday, August 18, 2023

Financial literacy refers to the skills and knowledge that allow an individual to make informed and effective decisions through their understanding of finances. Financial literacy starts by building a basic understanding of 'money...

Friday, August 11, 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...

Thursday, August 3, 2023

Investing with an eye toward promoting social, political, or environmental concerns (or at least not supporting activities you feel are harmful) doesn't mean you have to forgo pursuing a return on your money. Socially responsible...

Tuesday, July 25, 2023

Many people care for a loved one out of necessity as their family members can no longer care for themselves. More than one in ten people in the United States also care for an adult, spending about three hours each day on caregiving...

Tuesday, July 18, 2023

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...

Tuesday, July 11, 2023

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...

Saturday, July 1, 2023

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...

Tuesday, June 27, 2023

The sandwich generation is a term commonly used to describe those between the ages of 40 and 59 who are responsible for raising their family and are also often helping their aging parents manage their ongoing needs. Those members of...

Tuesday, June 20, 2023

A life insurance policy is part of financial planning. Life insurance is there to help ease the financial trauma that comes with the loss of a spouse, parent, or partner. As you encounter different events in your life, you may need to...

Tuesday, June 13, 2023

Annuities often get a bad rap as insurance products – and often rightly soLife insurance buys financial protection against your premature death. Here’s the how-to on another insurance that can protect you from living too...

Tuesday, June 6, 2023

Reading a homeowners insurance policy for the first time can be intimidating. With all the jargon, exclusions, and conditions you'll encounter, you may start thinking that Mom was right--you should have gone to law school after all....

Monday, May 1, 2023

529 plans are designed for saving for education and are beneficial since contributions accumulate and grow tax-free as long as withdrawals are used for qualified education expenses.

Monday, May 1, 2023

If you saved for retirement for a while, you might look forward to a break from financial responsibility for the remaining portion of your life. But striving for economic betterment should not end when you hit retirement.

Monday, May 1, 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?

Monday, May 1, 2023

The best-selling book, Good to Great: Why Some Companies Make the Leap. . .and Others Don’t, offers surprising insights into the success of “great” companies.

Monday, May 1, 2023

For small business owners, ensuring your investment is covered is critical to ensuring the survival of your business after you are gone. One of the ways in which small business owners do this is by applying for life insurance in the...

Monday, April 24, 2023

And for all adults to put into practice tooI was walking with a friend and his 6-year old daughter and we stopped by an ATM on the way to lunch. As my friend was getting some cash, I couldn’t help but notice the confused look on...

Monday, April 17, 2023

With the cost of providing health care and other employee benefits rising, small businesses may find it difficult to compete with larger companies in attracting and retaining the most talented workers. Compared with other types of...

Monday, April 10, 2023

Everyone needs to have some level of financial literacy to help manage their finances. However, financial literacy becomes even more crucial when you're a business owner. You need to become familiar with common terminology and business...

Monday, April 3, 2023

Are you worried about the current state of the Social Security system and how its future may affect your retirement income? It’s important to take a long, hard look at your current savings strategy to ensure you’ll be able...

Monday, March 27, 2023

The way Americans shop and travel has dramatically changed over the past few years due to COVID-19. The idea of supporting ‘mom and pop shops’ has re-ignited as people realize they want a robust local economy that supports...

Monday, March 20, 2023

The Fair Credit Reporting Act of 1970 has stood the test of time, and the Consumer Credit Reporting Reform Act has provided additional protection to the American consumer. If you take the time to understand the credit reporting system...

Monday, March 13, 2023

In the U.S., men are investing and accumulating wealth at a greater pace than women, fueling the gender investing gap. Closing the investing gap is essential so that women accumulate enough retirement assets for their entire lives. On...

Friday, March 3, 2023

As more and more consumers search for financial information on the Internet, they may inadvertently leave themselves open to being “tracked” by certain companies and individuals. Visitors to financial websites have created...

Monday, February 27, 2023

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...

Monday, February 20, 2023

The vast majority of Americans need long-term care. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 70% of people over age 65 may need some long-term care during their lives.1 Unfortunately, planning for long-term care...

Monday, February 13, 2023

What is planning for business expansion?A growing firm often finds it necessary to expand the level of its operations. To accomplish this, the firm might acquire additional fixed assets, such as property, a plant, and equipment. Often,...

Monday, February 6, 2023

Black-owned businesses and entrepreneurship have come a long way in the past few decades. This has exposed the barriers that have stifled black-owned businesses and brought new opportunities to light. The racial inequality that has...

Monday, January 30, 2023

Identity theft hits your finances, but also can affect your taxes too Identity theft is one of the fastest growing crimes in the United States, with as many as 10% of Americans over age 16 becoming victims last year, according to a...

Monday, January 23, 2023

Insurance serves many purposes for a business. You'll need insurance to protect your business from property damage, personal injury suits, and other forms of financial loss. In addition, you may want to provide your employees with...

Thursday, January 19, 2023

What is it?I think it’s safe to say micro goals are the individual pieces of your long-term puzzle—which together, make your end goal more clearly laid out with each piece you complete.BenefitsMicro goals are easier to plan...

Thursday, January 19, 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...

Thursday, January 19, 2023

Simple steps to help you bounce back from challenging situationsBuilding and sustaining a business is not a task for the faint of heart. As anyone who has launched a business from the ground up knows, transforming an idea into a...

Monday, January 16, 2023

The first step to improving your finances is to get organized.These top Amazon finds can help you create a monthly budget, plan your spending, and safely store your important insurance or personal documents for easy access when...

Monday, January 9, 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...

Monday, January 2, 2023

What is it?I think it’s safe to say micro goals are the individual pieces of your long-term puzzle—which together, make your end goal more clearly laid out with each piece you complete.BenefitsMicro goals are easier to plan...

Monday, December 26, 2022

Running a business without a written business plan is like heading out on a cross-country trip without a map or GPS. Although you may be able to make it to your destination, you may spend far more time and money navigating through...

Monday, December 19, 2022

The scene is familiar—family is gathered around, there are bits of shiny paper and ribbons scattered across the house, and the kitchen table is overflowing with delicious food. The holiday season is a time for giving, reflection,...

Monday, December 12, 2022

The end of the year can be a chaotic time for business owners. It is a time to compile data, review the numbers, evaluate strengths and weaknesses, and determine growth opportunities for the future. A business owner would be keen to...

Saturday, December 10, 2022

Any small-business owner could attest that everyone needs a break sometimes. And the holiday season may provide an opportunity to take a few days (or longer) for yourself—whether traveling, spending time with the family, or...

Saturday, December 10, 2022

Whether you're a current business owner or a budding entrepreneur burning with the next great idea, one of the most important steps you can take on your road to success is creating a business plan.Why? A well-thought-out and...

Saturday, December 10, 2022

Regardless of size, companies can benefit when the community in which they do business thrives. For entrepreneurs, giving back to the community may be more than just a charitable act; it can also make good business sense. If you have...

Saturday, December 10, 2022

The end of the year can be a chaotic time for business owners. It is a time to compile data, review the numbers, evaluate strengths and weaknesses, and determine growth opportunities for the future. A business owner would be keen to...

Monday, December 5, 2022

This holiday season, consider combining investment gains with social good via an approach called Impact Investing. This can include a focus on Environmental, Social and Governance investing (ESG), or Socially Responsible Investing...

Tuesday, November 29, 2022

While Black Friday and Cyber Monday center on consumer deals, Giving Tuesday—the Tuesday after Thanksgiving—has a different focus. Each year, individuals and corporations are encouraged to use the day to support charities...

Tuesday, November 22, 2022

Ensure Your Legacy Is your growing business still a one-person operation? As your company continues to grow and the workload increases, it is easy to find yourself wearing too many hats and not having enough hours in the day to...

Tuesday, November 15, 2022

Want to be your own boss? Ready to turn your hobby into a career? Got a great idea and thinking about launching a business? If you've answered yes to any of these questions, you are ready to become an entrepreneur.  This can...

Tuesday, November 8, 2022

Black Friday and Cyber Monday are two of the greatest days to score deals for holiday shopping. Unfortunately, with amazing deals plentiful, some scammers use these days to take advantage of shoppers looking for the greatest bargains...

Tuesday, November 1, 2022

The past two years presented many small-business owners with unprecedented challenges. This year’s tax planning preparations include necessary measures for small-business owners to satisfy existing, new and modified tax laws that...

Friday, October 21, 2022

The past 100 years have seen changes in how people plan for their financial futures and how they live. Borders no longer restrict people from living in one country; their profession often takes them to parts of the world they never...

Tuesday, October 11, 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.1 For many individuals who...

Wednesday, October 5, 2022

Too many focus on immediate needs versus saving for retirementAmerican workers find it difficult to save for retirement because their distant financial needs tend to take a backseat to more immediate economic concerns, even if they...

Thursday, September 29, 2022

As a female entrepreneur, you may face different challenges than your male counterparts. For example, women were disproportionately affected by the COVID pandemic. 1 They also tend to earn less than their male peers—largely in...

Tuesday, September 20, 2022

As a successful business owner, you don't want to think about your operations being interrupted by a natural disaster or other unexpected event. Yet the possibility is a real one.Natural catastrophes represent just a portion of the...

Thursday, September 8, 2022

If you're like most people, you bought life insurance to provide for your loved ones in the event of your death. But because you're self-employed, you may have an even greater need for life insurance: You'll want to protect your family...

Wednesday, August 31, 2022

Implementing a 401(k) plan for your employees is good business. It means you're thinking strategically, that you care for your employees, and are focused on the long-term health of your company. Implementing a retirement plan:Can help...

Friday, August 26, 2022

Many businesses start small, begun by people seeking the exciting and potentially rewarding experience of "being their own boss" while doing something they enjoy. If you're thinking about starting your own business, you'll need a sound...

Friday, August 19, 2022

Many nonprofit organizations set out to help others. They provide services, guidance, support, or other resources to a specific group or cause. Yet, to do the work they do, they often need financial strength. Nonprofit organizations...

Friday, July 22, 2022

One of the hardest things to do, by far, is realizing when a want is not a need.Budgeting is a balancing act. The secret to sustaining yourself from day to day while also working towards financial goals is building a budget that...

Friday, July 22, 2022

How can you pay for your child's private school?Many parents are committed to sending their children to private elementary or secondary school. Yet paying private school tuition can present a compelling cash flow problem. The reason is...

Friday, July 22, 2022

With the wide variety of stocks in the market, figuring out which ones you want to invest in can be a challenging task. Many investors feel it's useful to have a system for finding stocks that might be worth buying, deciding what price...

Monday, July 18, 2022

Disabilities may make it challenging to secure a job or stay financially stable. Luckily, there are now more ways than ever for adults with disabilities to gain their financial independence. Here are some important reasons adults with...

Friday, July 15, 2022

Cutting down on straws and water bottles are just a few stepping stones that are working towards reducing waste and creating a more sustainable lifestyle you can feel good about. Though vital to working toward what zero waste stands...

Tuesday, July 12, 2022

The "sandwich generation" is the descriptive term for adults generally between the ages of 40 and 59 who are raising a minor child (or supporting a grown child) while also caring for a retirement-age or older parent. With financial...

Monday, July 4, 2022

Today, younger adults face a variety of challenges in their pursuit of financial independence. Some of these challenges are similar to those faced by previous generations, while others are unique to the times. Here are five financial...

Monday, June 27, 2022

A solid financial plan for small businesses is vital, and part of that financial plan should be insurance. Insurance is essential to preserve small businesses, cover their assets, and safeguard their employees. Here are some types of...

Monday, June 20, 2022

So far in 2022, these 6 stocks have lost 50% more than Russia’s GDPSince the COVID-bear retreated in March 2020 through the end of 2021, all we heard was how stock market gains were driven by just a handful of stocks – the...

Monday, June 13, 2022

A clean home is a happy home. However, if your organizing solutions aren’t eco-friendly, your home might not actually be 100 percent clean. Most organizing tools on the market today are made from harmful plastics. Instead, turn...

Monday, June 6, 2022

ESG investing enables investors to participate as stewards of the planet and its inhabitants by leveraging environmental, social, and governance factors when they invest. The primary goal of the ESG investment is profit, but the impact...

Monday, May 30, 2022

According to the College Board, the most recently published figures of the average annual cost of tuition and fees at a public university for a school year was $9,970 for in-state students and $25,620 for out-of-state students. The...

Monday, May 23, 2022

Economists and pundits predicted that the baby boomer generation's retirement would be dramatic, and the COVID pandemic sped things along. According to the St. Louis Fed, the number of retirees in the U.S. increased by 7% between...

Tuesday, May 17, 2022

Monday, May 9, 2022

As a small-business owner, you may be looking for the next big thing—an investment that might double your profits within the next year or allow you to maintain your income while working just a few hours a week. However, business...

Sunday, May 1, 2022

Sure, you’ve heard about the effects some of our everyday habits have on the environment, whether it is driving our cars around town or heating every square inch of our homes. But did you know these “big” things make...

Monday, April 25, 2022

There has long been a perception that “going green” adds to the cost of doing business. But as more companies of all sizes and in all sectors experiment with environmentally friendly approaches, the evidence is mounting...

Monday, April 18, 2022

The news is in. And it’s alarming.   According to the world’s foremost forum on international relations, global warming is dangerously close to spiraling out of control. They’re even calling it a “Code...

Monday, April 11, 2022

Are you worried about the current state of the Social Security system and how its future may affect your retirement income? It’s important to take a long, hard look at your current savings strategy to ensure you’ll be able...

Monday, April 4, 2022

April brings more than possible rain showers. It also marks Financial Literacy Month in the U.S. Whether you’re interested in a quick refresher or seeking to learn something new, it may be worth the effort to brush up on some...

Monday, March 28, 2022

For many people, entrepreneurship is the ultimate American dream. Five years ago, there were already more than 25 million Americans running their own businesses.1 And with the COVID-19 pandemic leading many W-2 workers to...

Monday, March 21, 2022

Today, many people are concerned about saving for retirement or paying for a large ticket item, such as a child’s college education. If you belong to this group, now may be the time to organize your finances. It is never too...

Monday, March 14, 2022

March is National Credit Education Month in the U.S., which makes it the perfect opportunity to brush up on your credit basics.1 Whether you're a credit novice or well-versed in the art of the FICO score, below are four ways to...

Monday, March 7, 2022

This year's National Consumer Protection Week is March 6th through March 12th. It's a time to educate people about their rights as consumers and how to make informed decisions about their money. Whether it's taking a hard look at your...

Monday, February 28, 2022

Through the years, what’s popular to collect has varied, but certain items—coins, books, and toys, for example—have remained well-liked for their natural collectability. How you maintain your collection, though, makes...

Monday, February 14, 2022

February is Black History Month, which is a time to celebrate achievements by those of Black or African American heritage and recognize their central role in United States history. While it is important to celebrate Black History in...

Monday, February 7, 2022

When you invest your money, what typically happens?   You probably first put it into a brokerage account. Then you follow along on your computer screen, as maybe it turns green (Nice! Maybe take a profit occasionally?) or perhaps...

Monday, January 31, 2022

When choosing someone to help you prepare and file your taxes, you may be wondering exactly what criteria you should consider. How do you find someone to forge a professional relationship with for your needs? What questions should you...

Monday, January 24, 2022

Looking for longer-term market trends that might shape the next few years Let’s be honest for a second: the DJIA, the S&P 500, NASDAQ, and the Russell 2000 all delivered one of the most surprising years in recent history. And...

Saturday, January 22, 2022

Saturday, January 15, 2022

Friday, January 7, 2022

With the New Year comes new beginnings, new goals, new challenges, new friendships, and new opportunities. 2021 was an incredible year for the economy and investors, but to us the future remains bright for 2022 and beyond. Let’s...

Friday, January 7, 2022

Wednesday, December 29, 2021

Wednesday, December 29, 2021

Friday, December 17, 2021

Wednesday, December 15, 2021

With the holidays here, now is the time to get into the giving spirit and help to change others' lives for the better. Whether you are looking to make a difference in a specific person's life or the life of many, there are many ways to...

Friday, December 10, 2021

If you’ve been anywhere near investing circles the past few years, then you’ve probably seen a few buzz phrases take center stage: 1.) Socially Responsible Investing (SRI) – also known as social investment,...

Sunday, December 5, 2021

Running a business without a written business plan is like heading out on a cross-country trip without a map or GPS. Although you may be able to make it to your destination, you may spend far more time and money navigating through...

Friday, December 3, 2021

Do you know someone who strives to live sustainably or someone who’s looking to be more eco-conscious for the new year? The guide below can help you pick the perfect gifts for them! Power to the Parks Flower Blanket Parks Project...

Tuesday, November 30, 2021

Environmental, Social and Governance Investing Basics Responsible investing is widely understood as the integration of environmental, social and governance factors – hence the ESG acronym – into investment processes and...

Thursday, November 25, 2021

Giving Tuesday is a day to extend the goodwill that the holiday season may bring to help others. With so many in need, the holiday season is a reminder to help those less fortunate. Whether you want to donate your time or contribute...

Tuesday, November 16, 2021

America's infrastructure was dealt a win in late October 2021 when Congress passed a $1.2 trillion bipartisan infrastructure bill as part of the President's Build Back Better plan. This is the first of two proposed bills—one...

Wednesday, November 10, 2021

Entrepreneurs may entertain thoughts of achieving success, inspired by those companies that seem to spring forth fully grown overnight. But, it is important for business owners to ask at the outset, “What is an appropriate...

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...

Thursday, November 4, 2021

Let’s start with something obvious: Stocks do not always go up. But on average and over time, they generally do. Yes, this may be a simplistic concept. But sometimes it bears repeating. As your portfolio matures, are you prepared...

Monday, November 1, 2021

Today, many people find themselves bombarded by a constant stream of financial news from television, radio, and the Internet. Yet, does all this “information age” data really help you manage your finances any better now...

Monday, October 25, 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...

Monday, October 25, 2021

More consumers are conducting financial transactions online and may become vulnerable to tracking, hacking, identity theft, phishing scams, and other cyberspace risks. While nothing can guarantee complete safety on the Internet,...

Friday, October 15, 2021

Small businesses face many problems related to their size, capital, and capability, and for women-owned small businesses, the challenge is sometimes even greater. The good news is there are many professional organizations out there...

Wednesday, October 13, 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...

Friday, October 8, 2021

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 is no shortage of...

Friday, October 8, 2021

Socially responsible investing (SRI) is a strategy to make your investments more impactful by supporting ecological and social causes. SRI investors invest their money to support companies that value transparency in their business...

Monday, October 4, 2021

If you’re a savvy investor, you’re probably already on board with ESG principles. You know about the climate crisis. You’re staying ahead of COVID’s impact. You’re up-to-speed on social justice issues. And...

Thursday, September 16, 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...

Sunday, September 12, 2021

Do you have a favorite social cause? Is there something especially close to your heart? What about the things you deem wrong? (Pardon us if we’re getting too personal.) Or things you believe are harmful to society? What’s...

Thursday, September 9, 2021

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 August—another new record. All of...

Sunday, September 5, 2021

Natural disasters like wildfires, floods, earthquakes, tornadoes, and long-term power outages don't discriminate—they may impact anyone at any time. However, you don't need to live your life under the constant stress of expecting...

Wednesday, September 1, 2021

Charitable giving is a term often heard around the holidays, or in some cases, around tax season. Nonprofit charitable organizations often rely on contributions from businesses and individuals to help them accomplish their goals and...

Friday, August 27, 2021

Millions of Americans head outdoors in the summer, whether for a day at a nearby lake or a month long road trip. For environmental economists like me, decisions by vacationers and outdoor recreators offer clues to a challenging puzzle:...

Wednesday, August 25, 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...

Wednesday, August 18, 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...

Saturday, August 14, 2021

As of 2017, about two-thirds of all nonprofit organizations in the U.S. had annual budgets of less than $1 million.[1] For these non-profit organizations where every penny has a purpose, having the services of a financial professional...

Sunday, August 8, 2021

Quick question: What’s your favorite electric vehicle manufacturer? If you already have one in mind – not to mention all the big-name domestic and foreign auto manufacturers that are set to expand their electric product...

Friday, August 6, 2021

As the call continues to come for following through on support of minority-owned businesses,[1] many are wondering how they may lend their support to black businesses. Whether through direct investment or community support, there are...

Thursday, August 5, 2021

Six months and counting. That is the current monthly winning streak for the S&P 500 Index. To take that a step further, this key equity benchmark has posted gains in 13 of the last 16 months—dating back to the March 2020 low....

Wednesday, August 4, 2021

Though U.S. taxpayers received an extra month to file and pay their federal income taxes in 2021, some are still smarting from having to write a check to the IRS.[1] For many, it can be tough to make the connection between those...

Thursday, July 22, 2021

After two years of decreases, interest rates on federal student loans are set to increase almost a full percentage point for the 2021-2022 school year.1 The interest rates on federal student loans are reset each year after the May...

Wednesday, July 21, 2021

New changes thanks to the American Rescue Plan Act – but just for 2021 The Child Tax Credit (CTC) was introduced through the Taxpayer Relief Act of 1997 and it was a $500-per-child nonrefundable credit to provide tax relief to...

Tuesday, July 13, 2021

From the Belvedere Castle in Central Park to the herds of roaming buffalo in Golden Gate Park, the US has no shortage of beautiful green spaces in its cities. You might not think of America’s urban centers as places to explore...

Monday, July 12, 2021

In the first half of 2021, the U.S. economy powered forward faster than nearly anyone had expected. Speed can be exhilarating, but it can also be dangerous. In our view, the overall economic picture remains sound and will likely...

Friday, July 9, 2021

While making money off investments is often a major goal, the new generation of investors is also focusing on where they put their money in the hopes that their investments will do more for the greater good.[1] The move toward socially...

Monday, July 5, 2021

Why do so many of us not use our vacation days? Salespeople talk about “leaving money on the table.” Well, employees leave vacation on the table. And the cost to us is significant. In fact, Americans leave 429 million...

Friday, July 2, 2021

It’s the understatement of the year to say that in 2021, things are changing. (But let’s do it anyway.) Not only has COVID-19 altered the business landscape (not to mention our social fabric), but some of the fundamental...

Thursday, July 1, 2021

Corporate wellness programs have been key tools in improving productivity, employee retention, and creating a more desirable corporate culture. While many companies have put a strong focus on physical wellness plans, many are just...

Tuesday, June 29, 2021

Markets are off to a strong start this year, with the S&P 500 Index up about 14% so far. However, most of those gains came early in the year, and many stocks have stagnated over recent months. While we remain overweight on stocks...

Monday, June 28, 2021

Corporate wellness programs have been key tools in improving productivity, employee retention, and creating a more desirable corporate culture. While many companies have put a strong focus on physical wellness plans, many are just...

Sunday, June 20, 2021

Social Justice investing is commonly linked to Socially Responsible Investing (SRI), which is investing to do good for others. Now, as COVID-19 continues to shape our societal values, clients are hoping that their investing addresses...

Wednesday, June 9, 2021

Fiscal stimulus, which was central to the market rebound in the last year, may start moving to the sidelines over the rest of 2021 and into 2022 as the recovery continues. Economic growth can compensate for the loss of government...

Thursday, June 3, 2021

As we move into June, a path to normalcy is coming quickly with stadiums allowing full capacity, restaurants filling up, and summer vacations in full swing. Meanwhile, the U.S. economy continues to recover remarkably quickly and the...

Monday, May 31, 2021

So, it’s 2021. (Finally!) And if you follow investing trends, the value proposition of ESG Investing has been pretty well-established. As the storyline goes, using ESG strategies can help align investors’ money with their...

Wednesday, May 26, 2021

After one of the best starts to a bull market in history, the rally has started to show signs of fatigue. A strong economic recovery lies ahead as the roepening continues, bolstering a very strong earnings outlook that is helping...

Wednesday, May 19, 2021

The economic recovery continues, as the recipe of vaccines, the reopening, and record stimulus all have combined to produce what should be one of the best years for growth ever. Although some economic indicators could be peaking or...

Wednesday, May 12, 2021

If you're a small business owner, many of the best practices employed by individual investors are also available to you (of course!), but you also have some additional options and factors to weigh while creating your investment plans....

Wednesday, May 12, 2021

As the calendar has turned to May, the popular “Sell in May and Go Away” stock market cliché is getting a lot of airtime. This is the idea that the stock market tends to be weakest between May and October (and...

Friday, April 30, 2021

Signet Strategic Wealth Management believes in investment practices that promote environmental stewardship, consumer protection, human rights and diversity. Based on our clients’ areas of concern we will seek to implement...

Wednesday, April 28, 2021

Last week we discussed whether stock prices might be reflecting peak optimism. In that commentary we noted that while sentiment may be overly optimistic and a pickup in volatility would be totally normal, strong breadth measures...

Monday, April 19, 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic has rocked markets and reshaped the way we interact with each other. But one unexpected side effect of this pandemic has been investors' acceleration into the entry of environmental, social, and governance (ESG)...

Friday, April 16, 2021

Whether you've been wondering about boosting your investments' rates of return or are concerned that your financial affairs are a bit too complicated for your next of kin to handle, it may be time to seek advice from a financial...

Tuesday, April 6, 2021

Sustainable, responsible and impact investing (or SRI), has taken off as an investment strategy, and now more than ever, the way you invest money can help support positive social change as a result. You may have also heard the terms...

Thursday, April 1, 2021

As your retirement draws closer, you will probably start to have lots of questions such as: How much Social Security will I receive? When should I retire? How will I know when to retire? Do I have enough saved? What will I need to do...

Wednesday, March 24, 2021

The bear market ended one year ago this week, finishing one of the fastest and most vicious bear markets of all-time—one that led to a drawdown of 34%. Things have come full circle now, as stocks have staged a furious rally,...

Monday, March 15, 2021

Having a good credit score doesn't just get you the best interest rates. It can also reduce your auto insurance premiums, allow you to avoid security deposits, and in some cases, even help you get hired.1 But what goes into your credit...

Monday, March 8, 2021

2020 has been a wild ride. Not only in our personal lives, but also for financial markets – and the commonly-held assumptions that go along with them. Despite the April market meltdown (and recovery) caused by COVID-19, investors...

Friday, February 26, 2021

Tips for being proactive in safeguarding your identity and your credit score Identity theft is a serious crime, with increasingly greater numbers of consumers being affected every year. As part of a protection strategy, the Federal...

Tuesday, February 23, 2021

Increasingly more people realize that their sustainability concerns can be address through their investments. As more investors embark on the sustainable investing journey—learn what it is, why one pursues it, and how to do...

Wednesday, February 17, 2021

Interest rates have risen steadily over the past six months but remain low by historical standards. That means the traditional high-quality bonds that many of us owned for decades are not doing the job for investors looking for income,...

Tuesday, February 9, 2021

As of 2018, about 58 million Americans had a 401(k), while around one-third of households owned an individual retirement account (IRA).1, 2 Yet for as commonplace as these retirement accounts can be, the nuances of contributions are a...

Friday, January 29, 2021

Most of us don’t like to consider death. After all, we’ve got years to go! And let’s focus on living our best life in those years, right? But, especially after a certain age, there exists a certain peace of mind that...

Thursday, January 28, 2021

Small caps have had an incredible run since the Russell 2000 Index bottomed on March 18, 2020, returning 119% compared to the S&P 500 Index’s 60% return over the period. Will small cap outperformance continue in 2021? The early...

Wednesday, January 20, 2021

This earnings season likely will be the last of the earnings recession. After year-over-year declines in the first three quarters of 2020, the fourth quarter likely will make it four in a row. Looking ahead, earnings are likely to grow...

Tuesday, January 5, 2021

It’s kind of like the song said … life is a highway2. If we’re allowed to use that analogy, the key to a smooth retirement is keeping enough gas in the tank, avoiding bumps in the road and packing the right map....

Tuesday, January 5, 2021

New Year's is traditionally the time to review your life and make resolutions for change. In addition to thinking about working out, eating healthy, and meeting personal and professional goals, you should also think about your finances...

Tuesday, December 22, 2020

With concern about inflation rising for some investors, we’ve started to receive questions about Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities, or TIPS. With TIPS, the principal of the bond, the part that’s paid back when the...

Thursday, December 17, 2020

Stocks continue to surprise to the upside, with the Russell 2000 Index (small caps) and the Nasdaq making new all-time highs on Tuesday. The S&P 500 Index, a chip shot from new highs, already has made 30 new highs so far this year....

Tuesday, December 8, 2020

So, what is “truly comprehensive” financial planning? It’s not just making sure that you’re retirement-ready. It’s more than actively managing your investments. And it goes beyond simply massaging your...

Tuesday, December 1, 2020

The holiday season is just a short time away, which means the shopping season is about to be in full swing. Shopping for holiday gifts is stressful but also a little fun, especially when you think about the joy you will bring to those...

Wednesday, November 25, 2020

As 2020 winds down, it has been an extremely tough year on all of us. Still, there are many reasons to be thankful and today we will share some reasons investors should be thankful. Stocks have had one of the largest reversals ever in...

Friday, November 20, 2020

Index Performance US and International Equities This week, as some of the economic news was pointing to worries of a potential economic slowdown, some areas of the stock market are looking ahead to a potential economic recovery. Stocks...

Tuesday, November 10, 2020

More than ever, consumers are looking for the companies they support to have a social impact in their communities. Today’s consumers believe that companies can make a positive difference in their communities, while also making a...

Monday, November 2, 2020

Despite the dollars, fears and emotions – you can manage with planning Long-term care (LTC) keeps you functioning in the face of devastating illnesses, disabilities and prolonged disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease. LTC...

Wednesday, October 28, 2020

Historically it has been unwise to attempt to “play” the stock market ahead of an election in an attempt to position based on perceived implications of a president’s policies, but the municipal bond market may be...

Thursday, October 22, 2020

We have seen a historic rebound in economic growth since the US economy emerged from lockdowns, but the pace of the economic rebound has tapered in recent weeks as the effects of fiscal stimulus fade. The recently released Federal...

Wednesday, October 7, 2020

Today's low interest rates are a far cry from the double-digit rates seen in the 1970s and 1980s when even a certificate of deposit (CD) could yield up to 20 percent per year.1 But there are some distinct advantages to a...

Friday, October 2, 2020

Being “socially conscious” may seem very 21st century. But socially responsible investing (SRI) is actually nothing new, with the first SRI fund launching in 1952. With SRI-focused mutual funds, ETFs, government bonds and...

Thursday, September 24, 2020

On March 23, 2020, the S&P 500 Index closed down 2.9% for the day, bringing its total loss from its all-time high to 33.9%. The index was in the midst of its fastest bear market ever. A day earlier, New York Governor Andrew Cuomo had...

Tuesday, September 22, 2020

A few weeks ago we looked at how different bond sectors performed during rising rate periods during the last economic cycle (2009–2020). Today we look at falling rate periods—not the outcome we expect, but it can still be...

Wednesday, September 9, 2020

Ah, California! Sun, sand and social responsibility. Right? It might come as no surprise that the “Golden State of Mind” is geared more toward sustainable initiatives and socially responsible organizations than other states...

Friday, September 4, 2020

September is National Life Insurance Awareness month. And while most of us likely recognize that life insurance provides us peace of mind and security, there may be a few things you don’t know. Life Insurance is Not Just for the...

Friday, August 28, 2020

This week in the LPL Market Signals podcast, LPL Financial’s Chief Market Strategist Ryan Detrick and Equity Strategist Jeff Buchbinder discuss the impacts of a potential Joe Biden victory. “Of course tensions are high as...

Thursday, August 13, 2020

We continue to follow high-frequency data to assess whether the US recovery remains on track or if it has been derailed by COVID-19 outbreaks in parts of the country. Here we look at 5 charts that illustrate that the economic recovery...

Wednesday, August 12, 2020

If the coronavirus crisis has led you to recently join the more than 5 million U.S. workers who work from home, you may still be settling into a routine.1 Adding homeschooling (or e-learning) into the mix can introduce additional...

Wednesday, August 5, 2020

Does it come as a surprise that investment strategy and social responsibility can go hand-in-hand? With modern investing methodologies offered by Signet, it’s entirely possible to manage your wealth, while preserving your...

Wednesday, July 29, 2020

“An object in motion tends to remain in motion along a straight line unless acted upon by an outside force.” Sir Isaac Newton Last September, we noted that gold had many structural reasons to soar. Well, soar it has,...

Friday, July 10, 2020

To most people, "risk" evokes negative images -- driving faster than the speed limit, placing bets on "a long shot," or traveling alone to unfamiliar places. Mention risk in terms of investing and people might think about losing their...

Friday, June 26, 2020

The economy is moving in the right direction, as many economic data points are coming in substantially better than what the economists expected. From May job gains coming in more than 10 million higher than expected and retail sales...

Thursday, June 11, 2020

US oil is suffering unprecedented distress, as demonstrated by the benchmark West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude price crashing into negative territory. This is a “triple black swan” of an oversupply of oil driven by Opec...

Wednesday, June 10, 2020

US equities continued to gain ground in May, with the S&P 500 Index advancing an additional 4.5%. However, Treasury yields have been remarkably stable since the equity markets bottomed on March 23, with the 10-year Treasury yield...

Thursday, June 4, 2020

Socially responsible investing (SRI) is a strategy to make your investments more impactful by supporting ecological and social causes. SRI investors invest their money to support companies that value transparency in their business...

Tuesday, May 26, 2020

The Federal Reserve (Fed) increased its bond exchange-traded funds (ETF) purchases in the week ending May 20 (the most recent data available), adding another $1.5 billion in bond ETFs to its balance sheet, bringing the total holding to...

Thursday, May 14, 2020

As stocks rallied 30% off the March 23 lows and earnings expectations were cut dramatically, valuations have become increasingly concerning for many investors (including some high-profile hedge fund managers being quoted in the...

Monday, May 4, 2020

If you're curious about socially responsible investing, you may have encountered all kinds of phrases about this phenomenon, including socially responsible investing (SRI), mission-related investing, sustainable investment, ethical...

Monday, May 4, 2020

Experts have warned that today's major market indexes haven't adequately priced in the cost of the impending climate crisis. As the market's initial reaction to COVID-19 has shown, any delay in response to an imminent threat can leave...

Friday, May 1, 2020

During this stressful and uncertain time, Signet Wealth Management is here to help you with understanding all the new resources and financial assistance available for small businesses, as well as certain non-profits and other employers...

Thursday, April 23, 2020

When you invest funds, you are preparing for your retirement and your future. But at the same time, you may also want to consider the impact your money has on the world. Ethical investment strategies seek to balance these two concepts....

Thursday, April 16, 2020

Stock returns get all the headlines, and with US equities entering their first bear market since 2008, there is good reason for that. However, fixed income may account for a significant portion, or even a majority, of many...

Monday, April 6, 2020

When the markets and the economy are behaving badly, as they tend to do from time to time, it's easy to feel helpless. But creating a solid financial foundation can help you gain control of your investments and possibly avoid mistakes...

Thursday, April 2, 2020

With the US economy having entered recession, investors were braced for weak manufacturing data today. The report released this morning at 10am ET clearly showed the pandemic has negatively impacted the sector, but the headline number...

Thursday, March 26, 2020

Weekly new jobless claims were reported this morning, and to no one’s surprise they rose to levels thought unimaginable just a few weeks ago. As shown in the LPL Chart of the Day, 3.3 million people filed new claims for...

Wednesday, March 18, 2020

Credit was once defined as "Man's Confidence in Man." But in fact, the definition of credit today is more like "Man's Confidence in Himself." Using credit today means you have confidence in your future ability to pay that debt. Forty...

Friday, March 13, 2020

The historic volatility continues, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average officially setting its fastest move from a new all-time high to a bear market (down 20% from the highs) in the 124-year history of the index. It took only 19 days...

Wednesday, March 4, 2020

With the U.S. bull market entering its eleventh year,1 more investors are looking for the next new thing. For many, this can mean investing in companies that not only are financially profitable, but that also help provide for the...

Thursday, February 27, 2020

The coronavirus outbreak—or Covid-19 —has caused significant market volatility over the past week. Our approach as always is to focus on economic fundamentals first, but the uncertainty around the scope of the outbreak has...

Wednesday, February 19, 2020

The largest overhaul to retirement plans since 2006 is complicated The Setting Every Community Up for Retirement Enhancement Act of 2019 – the SECURE Act – passed the House of Representatives earlier this year and was...

Wednesday, February 5, 2020

For more than 200 years, long before the advent of modern stock markets and electronic trading, some investors have been committed to socially-responsible (SRI) investing.1 This involves choosing companies and products that...

Friday, January 17, 2020

According to Giving USA 2018, Americans gave an estimated $410.02 billion to charity in 2017. That’s the highest total in more than 60 years since the report was first published, and also, first-time ever over $400 billion was...

Friday, January 10, 2020

The first five days of 2020 are in the books. Although the headlines have been quite scary, equities have picked up right where they left off last year. In fact, after the first five trading days of the new year, the S&SP 500 Index is...

Wednesday, January 8, 2020

Socially responsible investing (SRI) is a strategy to make your investments more impactful by supporting ecological and social causes. SRI investors invest their money to support companies that value transparency in their business...

Monday, December 23, 2019

A key goal of investing for retirement is making sure you save enough to make your money last throughout your lifetime. On this score, women may need to save more than men. The current life expectancy of a female at birth is roughly 81...

Wednesday, December 18, 2019

The fourth quarter is winding down, and investors are getting nervous that volatility in the short-term lending market could flare up once again. Rates on repurchase agreements (repos) jumped in September 2019 amid a shortage of cash...

Thursday, December 12, 2019

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...

Thursday, December 5, 2019

Hindsight is 20/20, but finding clarity in future uncertainty can be fuzzy. As we look forward to the year 2020 and a new decade, some key trends and market signals will be important to watch, including progress on U.S.-China trade...

Wednesday, November 27, 2019

This Thanksgiving, we’re thankful for solid consumer confidence, even though it has wavered in recent months. Consumer confidence fell for a fourth straight month in November, according to preliminary Conference Board data. Even...

Monday, November 25, 2019

October’s leading indicators show the domestic economy could be bottoming. The Conference Board’s Leading Economic Index (LEI) declined 0.1% in October, following a downwardly revised 0.2% decline in September. As shown in...

Thursday, November 21, 2019

Kelly and Bob regularly set aside a small portion of their budget for charitable donations. In addition to feeling good about supporting a number of worthy causes, they’ve been able to deduct the value of their charitable gifts...

Friday, November 8, 2019

At any age, health care is a priority. When you retire, however, you will probably focus more on health care than ever before. Staying healthy is your goal, and this can mean more visits to the doctor for preventive tests and routine...

Wednesday, November 6, 2019

“An object in motion tends to remain in motion along a straight line unless acted upon by an outside force.” Sir Isaac Newton What a year it has been for the bulls. The S&P 500 Index recently made four more new highs, and...

Wednesday, October 23, 2019

“Everything is awesome, when you’re living out a dream.” The Lego Movie As the S&P 500 Index continues to flirt with new record highs, something under the surface is taking place that is making 2019 extremely special....

Tuesday, October 22, 2019

One of the first steps you’ll take in the estate planning process is determining how much planning you’ll need to undertake. Two key components of your initial needs evaluation are an estate analysis and a settlement cost...

Tuesday, October 15, 2019

Sometimes, even highly-compensated individuals may find it difficult to achieve long-term success when it comes to managing their personal finances. Although they may attain a comfortable level of income, their focus may be on career...

Tuesday, October 8, 2019

Investing with an eye toward promoting social, political, or environmental concerns (or at least not supporting activities you feel are harmful) doesn't mean you have to forgo pursuing a return on your money. Socially responsible...

Wednesday, September 18, 2019

The Federal Reserve’s (Fed) policy committee starts its sixth two-day policy meeting of the year today. At 2:00 p.m. ET Wednesday, following the meeting’s conclusion, the Fed will announce its rate decision and release a...

Wednesday, September 11, 2019

529 plans can be a great way to save for college, but they're not the only way. When you're investing for a major goal like education, it makes sense to be familiar with all of your options. Mutual funds Mutual funds are an option to...

Wednesday, September 4, 2019

U.S. manufacturing contracted in August for the first time since January 2016 as trade uncertainty continued to weigh on the sector. The Institute for Supply Management’s (ISM) manufacturing Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI)...

Tuesday, September 3, 2019

Similar to taking care of your personal health by proactively incorporating healthy habits and annual checkups, you can also take control of your financial health when you are proactive and engaged in managing your finances. And also...

Wednesday, August 28, 2019

When Federal Reserve (Fed) Chair Jerome Powell speaks, markets listen. Friday, August 23, the markets had a new opportunity to gauge the Fed’s direction when Powell gave a closely watched speech at the annual gathering of central...

Friday, August 16, 2019

Traditional IRAs, which were created in 1974, are owned by roughly 35.1 million U.S. households. And Roth IRAs, created as part of the Taxpayer Relief Act in 1997, are owned by nearly 24.9 million households.1 Both are IRAs. And yet...

Wednesday, August 7, 2019

U.S. stocks have hit another trade-induced summer storm. The S&P 500 Index fell 3% on Monday, its worst day since December 2018. The index is now about 6% from record highs in U.S. stocks’ worst bout of volatility since May. As...

Thursday, August 1, 2019

Most portfolios are constructed based on an individual's investment objective, risk tolerance, and time horizon. Using these inputs and sophisticated portfolio-optimization calculations, most investors can feel confident that they own...

Wednesday, July 24, 2019

“I’ve been on a calendar, but I’ve never been on time.” Marilyn Monroe We’ve pondered where the S&P 500 Index could go now that it’s near our fair-value target of 3,000. As we discussed in the latest...

Wednesday, July 17, 2019

Earnings season is here again, as we’ll get reports from 57 S&P 500 Index companies over the next five days. A quick look at the numbers, as shown in the LPL Chart of the Day, Earnings Lull Expected to be Temporary, reveals that...

Monday, July 15, 2019

Charitable giving can play an important role in many estate plans. Philanthropy cannot only give you great personal satisfaction, it can also give you a current income tax deduction, let you avoid capital gains tax, and reduce the...

Wednesday, July 10, 2019

The June jobs report was solid. Nonfarm payrolls rose 224,000, according to data released July 5. As shown in the LPL Chart of the Day, Strong June Payrolls Gain Surprises Investors, the rise in jobs last month handily beat estimates...

Wednesday, July 10, 2019

The June jobs report was solid. Nonfarm payrolls rose 224,000, according to data released July 5. As shown in the LPL Chart of the Day, Strong June Payrolls Gain Surprises Investors, the rise in jobs last month handily beat estimates...

Tuesday, July 9, 2019

A successful investor maximizes gain and minimizes loss. Though there can be no guarantee that any investment strategy will be successful and all investing involves risk, including the possible loss of principal, here are six basic...

Friday, May 31, 2019

There is a growing popularity among individuals to broaden their investment strategy beyond conventional allocations and investment styles. Some see sector investing as a way to seek new opportunities for enhanced portfolio performance...