As of March 4, 2025, President Trump has implemented new trade tariffs affecting imports from Canada, Mexico, and China. Here’s a brief overview: What’s Happening? Why Were These Tariffs Introduced? The administration aims to address concerns related to illegal immigration, drug trafficking, and trade imbalances. The tariffs are intended to encourage these nations to take… Continue reading Impact of Trade Tariffs on Your Retirement Savings
Article Categories: Articles
U.S. Interest Rates and Fed Policy
Many are watching the Fed hoping they will lower interest rates soon. However, a historical perspective of rates would suggest that’s unlikely. The history of interest rates in the United States is a fascinating journey through economic highs and lows, shaped by various global and domestic events. After falling for three decades at the turn… Continue reading U.S. Interest Rates and Fed Policy
New rules make saving for retirement easier
According to BlackRock’s 2024 “Read on Retirement” survey, nearly two-thirds of workplace savers are worried about outliving their retirement savings. This concern is understandable, given one-third of workers currently have less than $50,000 saved for retirement, according to the Employee Benefit Retirement Institute. The SECURE 2.0 Act of 2022 aims to make workplace retirement saving… Continue reading New rules make saving for retirement easier
Using Tax Preparation Software
Tax preparation software, such as TurboTax and other popular programs, are widely used for their ease of use, step-by-step guidance, and robust error-checking features. However, like any automated system, it is not infallible. While these programs are generally accurate in performing calculations and generating tax returns, errors can still occur due to incorrect data entry,… Continue reading Using Tax Preparation Software
Wise Ways to Use Your Tax Refund
Receiving a tax refund can feel like a financial windfall, which can lead to some ill-advised purchases that you may later regret. Before you buy things you don’t need, consider ways to make your refund work for you. Here are some smart ideas to maximize it: Pay Down Debt High-interest debt is enemy #1… Continue reading Wise Ways to Use Your Tax Refund
SECURE 2.0, retirement income and litigation risk lead the menu for 2025
From SECURE 2.0 provisions to managed accounts to litigation risks, plan sponsors and retirement plan consultants are looking ahead to the rest of 2025 and positing what will likely be the biggest topics this year. Read this recent article from Pensions & Investments where Francis President and co-founder, Michael Francis, talks through what we’re hearing… Continue reading SECURE 2.0, retirement income and litigation risk lead the menu for 2025
Vote Partisan, Invest Bipartisan!
Please accept my sincerest condolences. By the time you read this message, election night will have come and gone, and though we may still be waiting for results, one half of this country will soon be very disappointed. Your man or woman will have lost, and you may be concerned about the future of our… Continue reading Vote Partisan, Invest Bipartisan!
Avoid the Noise, Focus on the Future
Market fluctuations and economic headlines can be alarming, but reacting impulsively to short-term news can hurt long-term investment growth. Tariffs, inflation reports, or political events may cause temporary volatility, but history shows that disciplined investors who stick to their strategy tend to see better results over time. While it’s natural to feel uneasy during periods… Continue reading Avoid the Noise, Focus on the Future
Tax Season Checklist
Tax season can be stressful, but being prepared with the right documents can make it a lot easier. Whether you’re working or retired, this cheat sheet will help you know what forms to collect and when to expect them. Keep in mind, some of these forms may not apply to your personal situation. Forms You… Continue reading Tax Season Checklist
Understanding Social Security Spousal Benefits
Understanding Social Security Spousal Benefits Social Security spousal benefits provide financial support for individuals who may not have earned significant income during their careers, often due to caregiving or part-time work. These benefits are designed to ensure that spouses, including lower earners, can still receive income in retirement. The spousal benefit can be as much… Continue reading Understanding Social Security Spousal Benefits
