A&I Financial Services

Our overall philosophy of investment advice is goal-focused and planning-driven, as sharply distinguished from an approach that is market-focused and current-events-driven. Every successful investor we have ever known was acting continuously on a plan. Failed investors, in our experience, get that way by reacting to current events in the economy and the markets. We neither...Read More

Our office is feeling thankful, and we hope you are too! Now is a good time to think about charities. Here are a few ideas. First, consider gifting out of your retirement account (IRA).* For example, instead of receiving a required minimum distribution and writing a check, ask your financial advisor how to donate to...Read More

Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays. I used to say it was because the family comes together without the stress of “gift giving” and with a whole lot of food. I am not the world’s best cook, but I’m a very good eater—and dish washer! Thankfulness is gaining popularity, or at least it seems...Read More

Saving for retirement or your child’s education is an ongoing debate many parents face throughout their lives, but it’s important to strike a balance between your own financial independence and funding your child’s near or long-term future. As children get older, the case for putting their education needs first is compelling—especially considering lifetime earnings potential...Read More

Perhaps you’ve seen recent news about a billion-dollar lottery. This open letter to the lottery winner offers some advice for any of us who suddenly comes into a meaningful amount of money, whether through an inheritance, through a business transaction, or through any other means, including the State’s gambling operations. Dear Lottery Winner, Relax. You...Read More

“Keep your hands firmly on the data,” says Dr. Tom Howard, our chief equity investment manager. Well, the data keeps pouring in. Here is some research based on a survey released from the CFP® Board: CFP® professionals act as partners, navigators, and counselors to the consumers who work with them. Their customers describe them as...Read More

October 3rd was World Financial Planning Day, and we’ve recently marked the 10th anniversary of the financial crisis. As we reflect on the past ten years, now is the perfect time to re-evaluate your financial strategy and make sure you’re avoiding the personal finance mistakes made a decade ago Follow this check-list of best practices,...Read More

Timeless insight from September, 2018. I read an article in the Wall Street Journal that reminded me of our speaker and researcher, Dr. Howard. “A Better Way to Think about Portfolio Rebalancing,” by Meir Statman, describes it well. Mr. Statman says “risk isn’t about volatility; it’s about not satisfying wants.” What could be more risky,...Read More

Some young Americans are working toward FIRE, or Financial Independence, Retire Early. Go figure. Actually, retiring early requires a lot of figuring out!Read More