Back to the Basics of Retirement Accounts
Retirement accounts are a cornerstone of today’s retirement strategies. While everyone might recognize the terms “IRA” or “401(k),” it’s important to familiarize yourself with how they work so you can understand how they may play a role in your own retirement strategy and timeline. Once you approach retirement, there are so many ways you can use these types of accounts, [...]
7 Ways to Celebrate Financial Planning Month
October is recognized as Financial Planning Month, an annual event dedicated to planning for an independent financial future. Whether you're a novice or knowledgeable in finance, assessing your finances and goals is always beneficial. This yearly event provides the perfect opportunity to reflect on spending habits, saving, investment strategies, and overall financial health. It allows us to rethink our financial [...]
Navigating Market Volatility: What Retirees Should Know About August’s “Japanese Carry Trade”
In August of 2024, the financial world was abuzz with discussions about the Japanese carry trade and its impact on global markets. For retirees and those nearing retirement, understanding these developments may help you understand why markets are moving, but it's equally important to maintain a focus on long-term financial security rather than reacting to short-term market fluctuations. Regardless, the [...]
A Recent History of Federal Reserve Policy
The past quarter century has held times of economic prosperity and crisis in this country. Because your retirement hinges on your financial options and decisions, the economic health of certain parts of the financial world can dictate if and how you struggle, survive, or thrive in retirement. As such, it's arguable that no other institution has as much of a [...]
The Role of Life Insurance in Estate Planning
Have you ever considered how your loved ones will be taken care of after your passing? The answer lies in estate planning and life insurance. When effectively combined, these components offer invaluable financial support to your family and friends. Understanding how to integrate both into a comprehensive plan is key. This guide will help you get started with life insurance [...]
How Lower Interest Rates Could Impact Your Money
The Federal Reserve recently announced their decision to lower interest rates, marking a significant shift in monetary policy. This change could have far-reaching implications—namely to your retirement finances if you rely on interest-earning accounts like money market accounts, CDs, and savings accounts.[1] The Impact on Interest-Earning Accounts Interest-earning accounts, known for their stability and, of late, their relatively higher yields, [...]
4 Reasons Your Retirement Needs a Healthcare Strategy
As you approach retirement, it’s easy to focus on financial planning, travel dreams, and leisure activities. However, one critical aspect that often gets overlooked is healthcare. A well-thought-out healthcare strategy can help to ensure you thrive in your retirement years without the burden of unexpected medical expenses or health-related issues. Here are four compelling reasons why you need a healthcare [...]
How to Turn Your Roth IRA into Regular Income
In retirement, prioritizing stability is crucial—not just the growth of your account value. While it’s tempting to focus on maximizing returns, the reality is that you need a reliable income stream to support your lifestyle and replace your paycheck. Relying on market fluctuations for your financial security can lead to uncertainty and stress. Instead, having a consistent monthly income allows [...]
