Financial planning blog

Timely and free financial planning advice

If you have not already done this with your financial advisor, then go ahead and ask him or her about providing you online access to your financial plan. This short video shows you some of the benefits. Like we’ve discussed in recent Periscopes, first your goals, then your plan and finally your investments. This is...

February 5, 2019

10 Steps to Achieve Financial Freedom in 2019

Financial freedom is knowing you can make major life decisions and are financially prepared to tackle speed bumps in your life plan without derailing the journey to achieve your financial savings goals. At a time when people across the globe are setting resolutions for the new year, I encourage you to put achieving financial freedom...

January 30, 2019

A Policy for a Lifetime of Investment Success

Let’s tell a story. First, we agree on some basics. The best way to set a lifetime investment plan is to discuss our goals, create a plan, and then assemble a portfolio of investments. We agree we should do these things in that order, because it is the order of priority. Let’s say you want...

Wealth advisor helping seniors enjoy retirement

January 24, 2019

How to Live Off Our Investments

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...

November 28, 2018

End-of-year 2018 Gifting

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...

November 21, 2018

Thankfulness and Financial Planning

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...

November 13, 2018

Saving for Retirement VS. Funding Your Child’s Education: What Comes First?

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...

October 24, 2018

Open Letter to a Lottery Winner

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...