Blog
Monthly Market Insights | May 2026
U.S. and Canadian Markets Stocks surged in April, notching their best month in five years as investors cheered upbeat economic news, efforts to lower tensions in the Middle East, and first-quarter results. The Nasdaq Composite rose an...
Read MoreOur new resource for Social Security basics
Explore our new “Social Security and You” hub for plain-English guidance on benefits, timing, taxes, and how Social Security fits your plan.
Read MoreRetiring Wild: National Parks and You
For many older adults, finding time to experience nature can be one of the greatest pleasures in retirement. And what better place to take in America's splendor than one of our over 400 National Park Service sites? For over a century,...
Read MoreA Quick Note About Your 2025 Tax Return
We’ll request your 2025 tax return to keep your financial plan current. Send it by office drop-off, secure email, or trackable mail.
Read MoreMarket Timing: Gotta Be Right Twice, Twice
Market timing requires a skill that’s almost impossible to master.An investor not only has to determine when stock prices have peaked (so you can sell), but also when they have bottomed (so you can buy).In recent weeks, many people...
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Quarterly Market Insights | April 2026
U.S. and Canadian MarketsStocks fell in the first quarter amid concerns that artificial intelligence (AI) could disrupt certain industries and geopolitical issues that unsettled investors.The Dow Jones Industrial Average lost 3.58...
Read MoreGood Friday
We wanted to remind you that the stock market is closed on Friday for Good Friday. The bond markets will shut down today at 1pm Central Time for Maundy Thursday, also known as Holy Thursday. West End Advisory Group will be closed...
Read MoreYour IRA contribution and taxes
Have you contributed to your IRA for this tax year?Even if you are close to filing your returns, talk with a financial professional about adding your contribution. As a personal retirement savings plan, your individual retirement...
Read MoreTax Prep vs. Tax Strategy: The Difference Matters More Than You Think
We all know that April 15 is the end of tax preparation season and the annual deadline for completing and filing your return. As important as proper tax prep is, some see it as part of a broader year-round strategy, which includes...
Read MoreEssential Financial Figures for 2026
Our Essential Financial Figures 2026 includes key information, including federal income tax brackets and important tax deadlines for 2026. Feel free to download it for yourself, or forward it to someone who may be interested.The...
Read MoreMonthly Market Insights | March 2026
U.S. and Canadian MarketsU.S. stocks struggled in February amid fears that artificial intelligence would disrupt a wide swath of industries, unsettling investors. Late in the month, geopolitical concerns weighed on the market amid...
Read MoreWhat's the One Big Beautiful Bill?
You've likely heard about the "One Big Beautiful Bill Act," which was signed into law last year, making many of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act provisions permanent. Given the bill's length (887 pages) and complexity, we wanted to help...
Read MoreMonday Is Presidents Day
Presidents Day is Monday, February 16. This unique holiday gives us an opportunity to be grateful for the leaders who have moved our country forward and to reflect on the value of service.It is also a time to relax and reap the rewards...
Read MoreWhere Will Your Retirement Money Come From?
There’s an alarming difference between perception and reality for current and future retirees. What workers anticipate in terms of retirement income sources may differ considerably from what retirees actually experience. Watch this...
Read MoreMonthly Market Insights | February 2026
U.S. and Canadian MarketsStocks climbed in January as the tailwinds of solid economic data offset the headwinds of geopolitical tensions that rattled investors during the month.The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index advanced 1.37 percent,...
Read MoreMarket Outlook for 2026
LPL Financial, who provides us with the resources, technology, and security of one of the nation’s largest independent wealth managers, has released Outlook 2026: The Policy Engine. This report is a comprehensive analysis of the...
Read MoreStressed About Debt?
The average American owes $59,580 in debt. Of that $59,580, $41,830 is from mortgage debt, $5,640 is from student loans, and $5,470 is from auto loans. Little wonder that money worries can be a major cause of stress.1The Link Between...
Read MoreOffice Closed on MLK Day
West End Advisory Group will be closed on Monday, January 19, in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. The New York Stock Exchange and Nasdaq will also be closed.We have indeed come a long way thanks to Dr. King and the movement he...
Read MoreRMD Changes You Should Know
At the start of each year, West End Advisory Group makes a point to review Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) requirements for all our clients who have IRAs with us. It’s important to take into account how new legislation has changed...
Read MoreGreetings from West End Advisory Group
The holidays are upon us, and these long nights and bright days are full of traditions that unite. It is a magical time of year, a time to cherish the things that truly matter in life. We are also grateful for our valued clients. Thank...
Read MoreYear-End Financial Strategies
As we approach the end of the year, it’s an opportune time to review and optimize your financial and tax strategies. Here are some key considerations: 1. Tax-Advantaged Accounts: Contribute fully to retirement accounts, including any...
Read MoreNew Retirement Contribution Limits for 2026
The Internal Revenue Service recently released new limits for 2026. Although these adjustments won’t bring any major changes, there are some minor elements to note. Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs) IRA contribution limits are up...
Read MoreMonthly Market Insights | December 2025
U.S. Markets Stocks were mixed in November as a late-month rally almost clawed back losses from earlier in the month. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index rose 0.13 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite declined 1.51 percent. The Dow Jones Indust
Read MoreWebinar Wrap-Up
Thanks to everyone who attended our What Should I Invest In? webinar this month, where we discussed asset classes such as stocks, bonds, and money market funds, as well as balancing your portfolio. Click the link below to view all...
Read MoreMonthly Market Insights | November 2025
U.S. Markets Stocks advanced for the sixth consecutive month in October as major averages pushed through a government shutdown and trade jitters. Robust Q3 corporate results drove momentum over a month that is notorious for market declines.
Read MoreTrick or Tree?
Our Central West End neighborhood hosts the region’s most legendary Halloween party, which kicks off this Saturday, October 25. In addition, a new "Trick or Tree" campaign has been launched to collect donations for tree restoration St....
Read More2026 Federal Tax Updates Announced
When the One Big Beautiful Bill (OBBB) Act was passed on July 4, the legislation left several unanswered questions that the IRS is now addressing. The IRS undergoes this process every year, but this time around, the OBBB has added to...
Read MoreQuarterly Market Insights | October 2025
U.S. Markets Stocks powered ahead in the third quarter as solid economic data, strong corporate results, and a positive shift in Fed policy drove market momentum.
Read MoreAre We for You?
At West End Advisory Group, we understand that financial decisions can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re balancing so many moving parts in your life. We’ve had the privilege of helping individuals and families navigate the...
Read MoreThe Fed, Don Quixote, and Interest Rates
The Federal Reserve has what’s called a "dual mandate"—keep everyday prices stable while promoting an economy that creates jobs. Managing that dual mandate is becoming more challenging this year, with prices and jobs giving mixed...
Read MoreMonthly Market Insights | September 2025
U.S. Markets Stocks posted a solid gain in August as investors eyed the Federal Reserve’s next move with interest rates. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index advanced 1.91 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite rose 1.58 percent. The Dow Jones Ind
Read More401(k) Day Is September 5
This year, 401(k) Day falls on September 5. To celebrate, I am offering a free workbook for those who can see retirement in the future, but don’t yet know what it looks like. This workbook can help you see the full retirement picture...
Read MoreHappy Labor Day!
The first Labor Day was celebrated over 100 years ago, created by the labor movement as a day to honor the achievements and contributions (both social and economic) of American workers. I’ve always found the way we celebrate to be...
Read MoreLPL Launches New Marketing Campaign
There’s some big news from our broker/dealer, LPL Financial. They have launched their first-of-its-kind marketing campaign, and you may have seen LPL on TV, across familiar websites, and even in some airports. The ads feature actor...
Read MoreThinking About Retirement?
Thinking about retirement can be scary. When should you start? Have you saved enough? What do you want your retirement to look like? It can be a lot to consider all at once. Sometimes, the best thing you can do is boil it down to a...
Read MoreMonthly Market Insights | August 2025
U.S. Markets Stocks rode the wave of trade developments and Q2 corporate results to advance last month, pushing market averages to multiple record highs. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index gained 2.17 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite rose
Read MoreAccess to Webinar Recordings
Thanks to everyone who attended this month's Zoom webinar, “Which Account Is Right for Me?” You can view a recording of this webinar, in which we discussed the types of retirement plans and personal savings accounts that may be...
Read MoreFree Webinar: Which Account Is Right for Me?
Join us for the next free webinar from our Financial Literacy Series for 2025. This month we'll discuss different types of retirement plans and personal savings accounts, and when to use them. West End Advisory Group's Which Account Is...
Read MoreQuarterly Market Insights | July 2025
U.S. Markets Markets rose in the second quarter as investors witnessed the new U.S. trade policy's impacts unfold, while tensions continued in the Middle East. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index rose 10.57 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite
Read MoreReminder: Client Tax Returns
If you have already given us a copy of your 2024 tax return, THANK YOU! If you haven’t, we offer a variety of options: Office visit--You can drop off a copy of your tax return, or a photocopy can be made while you wait. Secure...
Read MoreHappy Juneteenth
Just a quick note to let you know that our office will be closed on Thursday, June 19, in observance of the Juneteenth national holiday. The New York Stock Exchange, Nasdaq, and bond markets will also be closed. Juneteenth represents...
Read MoreWho We Work With
As you go through life, change will often prompt you to make needed transitions. Whether your transition is a result of happy events such as graduation, marriage, or birth of a child, or not-so-happy ones such as job loss, divorce or...
Read MoreFinancial Literacy Series
Thanks to everyone who attended our first Financial Literacy webinar of the year, “How Much Is Enough?” In this Zoom webinar, we discussed estimating the cost of your retirement, as well as potential sources of retirement income. Click...
Read MoreMonthly Market Insights | June 2025
U.S. Markets Stocks notched solid gains in May as investors cheered progress on trade deals and upbeat first-quarter corporate reports. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index gained 6.15 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite picked up 9.56 percent.
Read MoreMonthly Market Insights | May 2025
U.S. Markets Stocks were mixed as buyers emerged late in the month, thanks to solid corporate reports and unexpected trade news. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index declined 0.76 percent while the tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite rose 1.26 percent.
Read MoreClient Tax Returns
If you are a client with a financial plan on file, we’ll be reaching out in the coming weeks asking for a copy of your 2024 tax return. Your tax return provides valuable insights into your financial situation, allowing us to update...
Read MoreHave a Happy Easter
Spring tulips are blooming in our neighborhood, and Easter weekend means our office will be closed on Friday, April 18, in observance of Good Friday. Bond markets close early today at 2 p.m. ET for Maundy Thursday, and the New York...
Read MoreQuarterly Market Insights | April 2025
U.S. MarketsStocks fell in the first quarter as investors contended with economic uncertainty, inflationary concerns, and evolving tariff talks. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index slid 4.59 percent, while the tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite...
Read MoreFree Ebook: Common Tax Errors
The deadline for paying taxes is midnight on Tax Day (Tuesday, April 15). If you file via mail, the IRS will consider your return filed on time if it was postmarked by the due date. If you file online or through tax software, the IRS...
Read MoreRebalancing Your Portfolio
At West End Advisory Group, we know that everyone loves a winner. If an investment is successful, most people naturally want to stick with it. But is that the best approach? It may sound counterintuitive, but it may be possible to have...
Read MoreEssential Financial Figures for 2025
Our Essential Financial Figures 2025 includes key information, including federal income tax brackets and important tax deadlines for 2025. Feel free to download it for yourself, or forward it to someone who may be interested. The...
Read MoreMonthly Market Insights | March 2025
U.S. Markets Stocks stumbled in February as stubborn inflation, mixed economic signals, and an evolving trade policy weighed on investors’ minds. The Dow Jones Industrial Average declined 1.58 percent while the Standard & Poor’s 500...
Read MoreScam Alert
The Social Security Administration (SSA) Office of the Inspector General (OIG) is warning the public of a new scam tactic by criminals trying to lure potential retirement applicants to their site.This recent scam email appears to be...
Read MoreHappy Presidents Day
Presidents Day is a time to reflect on the wisdom of our notable presidents, including George Washington and Abraham Lincoln. Lincoln said, "The better part of one's life consists of his friendships." This Presidents Day I hope you...
Read MoreWhy I Became a Financial Advisor
We all come into our careers in different ways. Some of us have a clear vision of what we want to do and check the boxes to make it happen. Others stumble into their careers by chance or through an unexpected opportunity. My story...
Read MoreMonthly Market Insights | February 2025
U.S. Markets Stocks rallied in January on upbeat Q4 corporate reports and solid economic news that quieted talk of an inflationary comeback. The Dow Jones Industrial Average led, tacking on 4.7 percent. The Standard & Poor’s 500 stock...
Read MoreOffice closed for MLK Day
The third Monday of January is Martin Luther King Jr. Day. The legacy of Dr. King means many things to each American. This is a day of remembrance for both the man and his work. It’s also a day of service, in which we use a day away...
Read MoreQuarterly Market Insights | January 2025
U.S. Markets Stocks posted solid gains in Q4 as investors navigated the presidential election, overseas unrest, and Fed rate cuts. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index rose 2.07 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite surged 6.17 percent. By...
Read MoreHow did you do this year?
One of the best ways to evaluate progress toward pursuing your financial goals is with an annual review. Late December and the beginning of the new year is an ideal time to conduct this appraisal. It shouldn’t be a time for regrets and...
Read MoreNew Retirement Contribution Limits for 2025
The Internal Revenue Service has released new limits for the coming year. Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs)IRA contribution limits remain unchanged in 2025 at $7,000. Catch-up contributions for those over age 50 also remain at $1...
Read MoreMonthly Market Insights | December 2024
U.S. Markets Stocks notched solid gains in November as post-election enthusiasm and holiday shopping combined to fuel the advance. The Dow Jones Industrial Average led, gaining 7.54 percent. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index picked up 5...
Read MoreCookies and Financial Investing: A Tasty Analogy
As anyone who has visited our office knows, they may find a plate of warm cookies waiting for them in our conference room when they arrive. Our Client Services specialist, Laurie Elfrank, bakes the cookies in our kitchen especially for...
Read MoreHonoring Veterans Day
On November 11, we honor the bravery and sacrifice of those who have served America in the armed forces. It is also a time to appreciate the commitment of our active military personnel and their dedicated families. Let us honor their...
Read MoreMonthly Market Insights | November 2024
U.S. Markets Stocks fell in October as pre-election jitters hung over trading while solid but not spectacular Q3 corporate reports failed to buoy spirits. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 1.34 percent, while the Standard & Poor’s...
Read MoreHappy Halloween!
That spooky-yet-sweet time of year is coming – Halloween! Here in the Central West End, we’re getting ready with kid-friendly festivities during the day this Saturday, followed by a nighttime dance party and trick-or-treating at...
Read MoreFree Ebook: Estate Strategies to Consider
Will your values, goals, and desires for your estate be upheld? This month, we are offering a free downloadable guide that will help you understand the crucial details to address when creating your own estate strategies. Get the Ebook...
Read MoreSocial Security Says 2.5% COLA in 2025
Social Security beneficiaries will see a 2.5% increase in their benefit payments in 2025, according to the Social Security Administration. The annual cost of living (COLA) adjustment will affect more than 72.5 million Social Security...
Read MoreQuarterly Market Insights | Q3 2024
U.S. Markets Investors welcomed the Fed’s decision regarding short-term interest rates, causing stocks to post solid gains in the third quarter. The Dow Jones Industrial Average, which dipped in Q2, picked up 8.21 percent for the...
Read MoreHappy 401(k) Day!
Happy National 401(k) Day! Whether your employer offers a 401(k) or any other type of retirement plan, we want to take this opportunity to improve your financial literacy. Imagine driving a car without a basic understanding of the...
Read MoreMonthly Market Insights | September 2024
U.S. Markets Stocks notched modest gains in August, helping investors forget a volatile month of trading, punctuated by upbeat comments by Fed officials about interest rates. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 1.76 percent, while...
Read MoreFree Ebook: Principles of Investing
This month, we are offering a free downloadable guide that may help you invest with confidence as you learn how to evaluate crucial market fluctuations, and practice focusing on what you can control. Get the Ebook Your finances are as...
Read MoreHow to Manage Market Volatility
The trader's adage goes, “The stock market takes the stairs up and the elevator down.” The saying helps illustrate the speed at which stock prices can move, especially over the last few days. Here's how the recent stock market drop...
Read MoreMonthly Market Insights | August 2024
U.S. Markets Stocks edged higher during a volatile month of trading as investors monitored economic reports about the Fed’s next move with short-term interest rates. The Dow Jones Industrial Average led in July, picking up 4.41...
Read MoreUS Companies Are the Innovation Leaders
I watch many economic trends and business issues evolve as a financial professional. The rapid rise of artificial intelligence (AI) during the past year has been remarkable, and it has spotlighted the fast-paced decision-making in the...
Read MoreOur Commitment to Client Privacy
At West End Advisory Group, we understand that trust is the foundation of any successful financial-planning relationship. One of the pillars supporting this trust is our unwavering commitment to maintaining the confidentiality of our...
Read MoreFree Ebook on Social Security
This month, we are offering a free downloadable guide that may help you maximize your Social Security benefits. Discover situations when it might make sense to wait to collect your benefits, learn why your benefit amount may depend on...
Read MoreQuarterly Market Insights | Q2 2024
U.S. Markets Following a rocky start, stocks finished the second quarter higher as investors remained optimistic the Fed will manage interest rates with inflation trending lower. For the quarter, the Standard & Poor’s 500 Index rose 3...
Read MoreHappy Father's Day
On this Father’s Day, we want to congratulate our associate, Steve Mayer, on the recent birth of his son. We wish Steve and his growing family all the best. Father’s Day is when we celebrate perhaps the greatest work men do. Teaching...
Read MoreMonthly Market Insights | June 2024
U.S. Markets Stocks rose in May as investors cheered upbeat Q1 corporate reports and signs that the economy was still strong while not overheating. The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 2.30 percent, while the S&P 500 Index added 4...
Read MoreWhat We Do
Are you financially fit? At West End Advisory Group, we believe in a “plan first” approach to investing, because knowing how much money you need--and when you will need it--are important factors in your investment success. To get to...
Read MoreOn-Site Shredding
In a world where data security is paramount, West End Advisory Group is committed to going the extra mile to safeguard our clients' sensitive information. We're thrilled to extend an exclusive invitation to our valued clients to take...
Read MoreThis Memorial Day...
Memorial Day is a time for Americans to honor and remember those who lost their lives while serving in the armed forces. Veterans will think back on the men and women who served alongside them who gave the ultimate sacrifice for their...
Read MoreFree Webinar: Investing in an Election Year
Join us for a special Zoom webinar on Investing in an Election Year. Our guest speaker is Devyn Riggio of Capital Group, home of American Funds. We'll review how history can provide context for today’s market. Investing in an Election...
Read MoreMonthly Market Insights | May 2024
U.S. Markets Despite a late-month rally, stocks fell in April as investors struggled with a hotter-than-expected inflation report and mixed news about the economy. The Dow Jones Industrial Average dropped 5.00 percent, while the...
Read MoreFrustrated Following the Fed?
Let's start this email with the conclusion: Stick with your investment strategy, and don’t let outside influences like the Fed get in your way. Following the Fed these days is like watching an endless point in a tennis match. The...
Read MoreWho We Are
In today’s economy, a good financial professional should do more than merely “check-up” on a client once in a blue moon. You need someone who will actively follow your investments, someone who listens when you tell your story, someone...
Read MoreQuarterly Market Insights | Q1 2024
U.S. Markets Stocks notched solid gains in the first quarter as enthusiasm about artificial intelligence, signs of a soft landing, and dovish talk from the Fed buoyed investor confidence. For the quarter, the Dow Jones Industrial...
Read MoreEnjoy Your Easter Weekend
Just a quick note to let you know that our office will be closed on Friday, March 29, in observance of Good Friday. The New York Stock Exchange and other markets may also be closed. If you need to get in touch, give us a call or reply...
Read MoreInvesting in an Election Year
Presidential elections can be anxiety inducing. But when it comes to investing, do elections really matter all that much? This guide to Investing in an Election Year examines 90 years of investment data across 23 election cycles...
Read MoreEssential Financial Figures for 2024
Our Essential Financial Figures 2024 list includes key information, including federal income tax brackets and important tax deadlines for 2024. Feel free to download it for yourself, or forward it to someone who may be interested. No...
Read MoreMonthly Market Insights | March 2024
U.S. Markets Stocks notched solid gains last month as upbeat corporate reports and investor enthusiasm surrounding artificial intelligence overshadowed the Fed’s next move with interest rates. The Dow Jones Industrial Average...
Read MoreCelebrating Milestones at WEAG
In the dynamic world of financial advice, longevity and commitment are rare gems that shine brightly. This year, West End Advisory Group proudly celebrates two remarkable milestones as Steve Mayer marks his 5th year with the firm,...
Read MoreMonthly Market Insights | February 2024
U.S. Markets Stocks saw modest gains last month as positive economic data and upbeat Q4 corporate reports helped support prices. The Dow Jones Industrial Average advanced 1.22 percent, while the Standard & Poor's (S&P) 500 Index...
Read MoreQuarterly Market Insights | Q4 2023
U.S. Markets Stocks moved higher in the final three months of the year as bond yields trended lower in growing anticipation of a potential Fed easing. For the three months ending on December 31, the Dow Jones Industrial Average gained...
Read MoreHoliday Spirit in the Central West End
Warm holiday wishes from all of us at West End Advisory Group! As the holiday season unfolds, our neighborhood in the Central West End transforms into a winter wonderland, adorned with festive lights, charming decorations, and an...
Read MoreFree Tax Planning Guide
To ease some of the burdens of the upcoming tax season, our free Tax Planning Guide will help you become familiar with important dates, deadlines, challenges, and opportunities that may come up as we approach the end of the year....
Read MoreMonthly Market Insights | December 2023
U.S. Markets Stock prices surged last month as positive inflation data and falling bond yields emboldened investors. The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 8.77 percent, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 Index advanced 8.92...
Read MoreTranscript from StudioSTL Interview
The following is a transcript of our office interview >> HOST: This next segment has been sponsored by the West End Advisory Group, where they can help you hit that target of being financially fit. >> JOE RODDY: We...
Read MoreNew Retirement Contribution Limits for 2024
The Internal Revenue Service has released new limits for the coming year. After months of high inflation and financial uncertainty, some of these cost-of-living-based adjustments have reached near-record levels. Individual Retirement...
Read MoreMonthly Market Insights | November 2023
U.S. Markets Rising bond yields, geopolitical tensions, sticky inflation, and mixed earnings reports combined to push stocks lower last month. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 1.36 percent while the Standard & Poor’s 500...
Read MoreSchedule a November Financial Review
Pro Tip: You'll be able to sample the staff's leftover Halloween candy if you schedule an in-person visit to our office this month. (We also offer video conferences, but they're not as sweet.)
Read MoreFeatured on Studio STL
West End Advisory Group will be featured on Studio STL at noon on Thursday, October 12. Tune in as host Chelsea Haynes interviews us in the Central West End for her entertainment and lifestyle program.
Read MoreQuarterly Market Insights | Q3 2023
U.S. Markets Stocks lost a portion of their first-half gains in the third quarter as a continued tight monetary bias from the Federal Reserve sent bond yields higher, unsettling stock investors throughout August and September. For the...
Read MoreFree Pre-Retirement Webinar
Join us as we kick off our quarterly Financial Literacy Series. Our first free Zoom webinar is on pre-retirement, and is targeted at people nearing retirement age. We'll discuss: Creating a Budget Taxation of Social Security Key Dates...
Read MoreMonthly Market Insights | September 2023
Monthly Market Insights | September 2023 U.S. Markets After sliding for much of last month on rising yields, credit rating downgrades, and economic weakness out of China, stocks staged a late-August rally to help trim losses. The Dow...
Read MoreLPL Research discusses their economic and market forecasts for the second half of 2023.
Now that we’re beyond the midpoint of the investing year, it’s a great time to look at where we’ve been—to help position your portfolio for the latter half of the year. Our Midyear Outlook: The Path Toward...
Read MoreMonthly Market Insight: August 2023
Monthly Market Insights | August 2023 U.S. Markets Stocks added to their strong year-to-date gains in July as investors cheered decelerating inflation, better-than-expected corporate earnings, and healthy economic data. The Dow Jones...
Read MoreWhy the Drop in Inflation Was Such a Big Deal
Sometimes, a picture is worth 1,000 words. So I decided to include an image of the June Consumer Price Index (CPI) report to help put inflation in better perspective: Core CPI, which excludes volatile food and energy prices, rose just...
Read MoreThe Long View Is Best for Your Investments
We know that market fluctuations can be distracting. Fortunately, we also know that taking the long view is a prudent approach to investing. We’re making a change to help you focus on your financial future and tune out the noise...
Read MoreQuarterly Market Insights- Q2 2023
Quarterly Market Insights | Q2 2023U.S. MarketsStocks extended their rally in the second quarter, boosted by cooling inflation, the prospect of a shift in monetary policy, and enthusiasm over artificial intelligence.For the three...
Read MoreFed Hits Pause Button on Rate Hikes
Jerome Powell skipped an interest rate hike at the Fed’s June meeting, but the market isn’t buying what the Fed Chair is selling about what’s next with short-term rates.Powell signaled that two more rate increases may...
Read MoreWe’ll Be Closed
Just a quick note to let you know that our office will be closed on Monday, June 19, in observance of the Juneteenth national holiday.We’ll be back to business on June 20 and look forward to getting back to you then.
Read MoreMonthly Market Insights- June 2023
Monthly Market Insights | June 2023U.S. MarketsStock prices were mixed as enthusiasm over the economic potential of artificial intelligence was offset by concerns about the federal debt ceiling.The Dow Jones Industrial Average lost 3...
Read MoreSocial Security Webinar Wrap-Up
Our first Zoom webinar was a great success! We invited David Seymour, MPA, from the Social Security Administration to join us for a presentation on Social Security in Retirement. We covered questions such as:What's the best age to...
Read MoreMonthly Market Insights- May 2023
MONTHLY MARKET INSIGHTS | MAY 2023U.S. MarketsThe Dow Jones Industrial Average led, picking up 2.48 percent. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index rose 1.46 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite was flat (+0.04 percent).1Rest at the end,...
Read MoreSocial Security Webinar
Come join us for our upcoming virtual event on 5/17/2023. We’ll talk about Social Security in retirement and answer your questions. Learn more here.
Read MoreMonthly Market Insight- April 2023
Quarterly Market Insights | Q1 2023U.S. MarketsStocks posted solid gains in the first quarter as investors navigated corporate earnings, shifting monetary signals, and troubles in the banking sector.For the three months ending March 31...
Read MoreEssential Financial Figures for 2023
If you have questions about your accounts, or if you’re thinking about adjusting your financial strategy, please know the door is open to you anytime to reach out. Meanwhile, feel free to download this printable, newly...
Read MoreFeds Managing SVB, Inflation
For the Federal Reserve, credibility is everything. And its credibility is being tested by how it plans to manage the banking system in the days leading up to its March 21-22 meeting.Last month, Fed Chair Powell confidently told Wall...
Read MoreMarch Monthly Market Insight
Monthly Market Insights | March 2023U.S. MarketsStock prices stumbled in February owing to growing worries that the Fed would maintain its tight monetary posture in the face of continuing inflation.For the month, the Dow Jones...
Read MoreHappy Presidents Day
Presidents Day is a time to reflect on the wisdom of our notable presidents, including George Washington and Abraham Lincoln. Lincoln said, "The better part of one's life consists of his friendships." This Presidents Day I hope you...
Read MoreTax Efficiency in Retirement
As tax season commences, I wanted to share an article about tax efficiency in retirement. Will you pay higher taxes in retirement? It's possible. But that will largely depend on how you generate income. Read more here.
Read MoreMonthly Market Insights: February 2023
MONTHLY MARKET INSIGHTS | FEBRUARY 2023U.S. MarketsStocks rallied in January as moderating inflation, a better-than-feared earnings season, and healthy economic data put investors in a buying mood.For the month, the Dow Jones...
Read MoreInflation Is Trending Lower. Now What?
The December inflation report had some encouraging news. It showed that consumer prices trended lower for the month, but more importantly, it confirmed that overall prices have been trending lower for the past six months.Now the ball...
Read MoreRemembering Martin Luther King Jr.
The third Monday of January is Martin Luther King Jr. Day. The legacy of Dr. King means many things to each American.This is a day of remembrance for both the man and his work. It’s also a day of service, in which we use a day...
Read MoreSECURE Act 2.0: An Overview
In the final days of 2022, Congress passed a new set of retirement rules designed to make it easier to contribute to retirement plans and access those funds earmarked for retirement.The law is called SECURE 2.0, and it's a follow-up to...
Read More2023 Tax Planning Guide
Check out our guide to Tax Planning for 2023!Tax Planning 2023
Read MoreNew Retirement Contribution Limits for 2023
The Internal Revenue Service has released new limits for the coming year. After months of high inflation and financial uncertainty, some of these cost-of-living-based adjustments have reached near-record levels.Individual Retirement...
Read MoreThe Biggest COLA Increase Since 1981
How well do you remember 1981? Harrison Ford had his first bow as Indiana Jones in Raiders of the Lost Ark. Frogger and Donkey Kong were all the rage at video arcades. Bob Ross left the Air Force and took up painting. On top of that,...
Read MoreThe Pros & Cons of ESG Investing
ESG has gone from a niche investment philosophy to a mainstream investment tenant while gaining the attention of corporations, politicians, regulators, and investors.ESG stands for environmental, social, and governance and is a way of...
Read MoreIt's Cybersecurity Awareness Month: Are You Safe Online?
October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month. Is this relevant to you? Well, consider how many of your daily activities are done online. Even when it comes to your finances, nearly everything can be done on the internet. While convenient,...
Read MoreWill Your Social Security Check Be Taxed?
Most people are used to having a portion of their paycheck withheld for Social Security during their working years. But not everyone realizes that their retirement benefits could still be subject to income taxes—especially if...
Read MoreWhat You May Not Know About 529s
The end of summer and the start of the school year always seem to be a catalyst for conversations about college savings and where they fit into larger, long-term financial strategies. In particular, the 529 college savings plan, with...
Read MoreAll Recessions Are Not Created Equal
With inflation at 40-year highs, the Fed is aggressively hiking interest rates; but it's a tricky proposition: raise rates too much and many fear the next recession is right around the corner. Markets have been reflecting that fear,...
Read MoreIs Now a Good Time for a Roth IRA Conversion?
Is Now a Good Time for a Roth IRA Conversion?We know that taxes are one of life’s two inevitables. So, the question is not if you will pay taxes on your retirement accounts, but when and how much. That’s where Roth IRAs...
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