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The Values Shaping Your Financial Decisions
Most people can account for what they spent last month, but can you explain what that spending was meant to accomplish? Closing that gap has less to do with better tracking and more to do with a clearer sense of purpose behind the numbers.
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Spending Intentionally While Maintaining Your Goals.
Most people don't blow up their financial goals with one bad decision. It happens smaller than that — an upgrade you didn't need, dinner out because the week was long, a purchase that felt great for about a day. While none of these choices
Read MoreWhat Health Care May Cost in Retirement
Many people assume Medicare covers nearly everything once they turn 65, but it doesn't. Fidelity’s most recent estimate puts a number on it. A single 65-year-old retiring in 2026 may spend an average of $185,500 on health care...
Read MoreAre you in the "Sandwich Generation"
Without knowing it, you may be part of the so-called "sandwich generation." These are people who find themselves at the life stage in which they are caught between raising their own kids while watching their parents grow older. They...
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The Question 6 in 10 Adults Get Wrong
When you see illustrations of money growing over time, most models show a straight, steady climb. But most people know that markets fluctuate over time. The question almost everyone gets wrong The 2026 TIAA Institute-GFLEC Personal...
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A Quick Guide to Socially Responsible Investing
Imagine not only growing your wealth but also contributing to a healthier planet, promoting social justice, and encouraging ethical business practices. It might not be a concept you’ve explored, but it’s entirely possible—and it’s...
Read MoreHow Global Scammers Use Tech to Target Victims
Online scams are becoming more sophisticated, and new technology is helping criminal networks operate at a larger scale. An AP investigation found that scam operations have used artificial intelligence, cloud services, internet...
Read More10 Budget Tips Every Young Investor Should Know
Budgeting is a powerful first step on the path to building wealth as a young investor. By establishing mindful financial habits now, you can build a solid foundation to support your long-term financial goals. Here are ten budgeting...
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Rising Costs are Quietly Adding Up
If it feels like your money isn’t stretching as far as it used to, you’re not alone. Rising costs have a way of quietly showing up in everyday life and over time, they can start to slow your financial momentum. The goal isn’t to...
Read MoreHealthy Aging Month: The New Retirement Reality
Living longer doesn’t automatically mean living better. Healthy Aging Month is a reminder that how we age is shaped by more than just time. Staying active, mentally sharp, and socially connected all play a role—and so does the ability...
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401(k) vs. IRA: What You Should Know
Most people have at least heard of two prevalent types of retirement plans: the 401(k) and the IRA. Deciding which is appropriate for you, however, is another story. Having a basic understanding of these two types of retirement...
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Inflation is Quietly Shaping Retirement. Are You Prepared?
As retirement gets closer, the conversation often shifts from saving to planning how those savings will actually support you. A few key areas are worth revisiting: Purchasing powerIt’s not just about your balance—it’s what that...
Read MorePlanning for Today's Retirement Reality
Planning for Today’s Retirement Reality Retirement is often described as a time to slow down, simplify life, and enjoy the fruits of decades of hard work. For many people, that vision included predictable expenses and a reliable stream...
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6 Smart Money Habits for Building Long-Term Wealth
Many people assume that once their income starts to rise, wealth will naturally follow. But the reality is that higher earnings don’t guarantee financial growth. Without effective habits in place, it’s easy for spending to expand right...
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Simple Ways to Stay Ahead of Inflation
Rising costs don’t always feel dramatic, but over time they can quietly chip away at your progress. The key isn’t reacting all at once. It’s making small, consistent adjustments that keep you moving forward. A few simple shifts can...
Read MoreU.S. Economy Slows as Core Inflation Remains Elevated
The U.S. economy grew more slowly in the second quarter, while inflation remained above the Federal Reserve’s target. Gross domestic product increased at a 1.5% annualized rate from April through June, below expectations for 1.8%...
Read MoreMore U.S. Adults Move Back in With Parents as Costs Rise
A record number of U.S. adults under 35 are living with their parents, according to a recent Realtor.com study. In 2025, 25.2 million adults under 35 lived at home, a higher share than during the COVID-19 pandemic. Many are working,...
Read MoreRoadmap to Retirement: Tax & Investment Strategies
You know the importance of saving for retirement. But what is the best way to do it? Is it just a matter of hoarding money in a separate savings account? Or should you rely on a workplace or state pension plan? We’ve compiled six...
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Gain Control and Confidence Around Your Finances
Manage Your Money More Effectively Not having positive money management habits can have a severe impact not just on your current finances but also on your future finances. Creating and sticking to good habits can help you feel more in...
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Retiring Soon? Why and How to Include Family in Planning Conversations
Many people spend years preparing financially for retirement, yet postpone conversations with family about what those plans will actually mean. When discussions are delayed, they often happen during moments of stress, such as after a...
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Retire Wise | April 2026
For many families, passing down the values that shaped their financial success is just as important as transferring the wealth itself. Yet parents and grandparents often find it challenging to clearly communicate principles around...
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Batter Up: It's Earnings Season
Over the next few weeks, investors will hear about the Q1 business climate from roughly 90 percent of Standard & Poor’s 500 companies. It’s called “Earnings Season,” and it happens four times a year. Investors will hear about the...
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Honoring Our Heroes: National Military Appreciation Month
As we step into May, we embrace National Military Appreciation Month (NMAM), a time dedicated to honoring the brave men and women who have served or are currently serving in the United States Armed Forces. This special recognition,...
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Financial Watch | April 2026
If you’re seeking to expand your understanding of money management concepts, techniques, and strategies, there’s no better time than during National Financial Literacy Month, which takes place each year in April. Financial Literacy...
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How Does a Trump Account Work?
Although the IRS started accepting tax returns on January 26, 2026, some “soon-to-be” filers may have lingering questions about how to identify the new Trump accounts on their federal tax return. Here’s a recap of what’s known about...
Read MoreGoal Setting That Sticks: Simple Ways to Turn January Motivation into Lasting Wins
Key Takeaways and Suggestions for Successful Goal Setting Use SMART Goals for Clarity and FocusSet goals that are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. This proven method helps break big ambitions into manageable...
Read MoreYear-End Giving Strategies: Tax-Smart and Impactful
Key Takeaways A third of annual donations: About one-third of all charitable contributions are made in December. Donating before December 31 may offer tax advantages. New rules starting in 2026 (via the OBBB Act) may affect deductions...
Read MoreThe True Costs of Caring for Aging Parents
Key Takeaways Caring for aging parents is a growing reality for many Americans. The number of family caregivers in the U.S. has jumped to 63 million, a 45 percent increase over the past decade, making 1 in every 4 Americans a...
Read MoreMoney Talks: How to Use Holiday Gatherings to Start Family Financial Conversations
Key Takeaways Year-end holidays may be a good time to initiate a discussion about financial matters that may impact your family. If you have adult children, you may want to discuss your financial situation, estate strategy, and legal...
Read MoreShould You Pay Off Your Mortgage Early?
Receiving a bonus, inheritance, or an increase in income often prompts a key financial question: Should I use this money to pay off my mortgage, or invest it? At first glance, the answer might seem simple. But in reality, it requires...
Read MoreA 2025 Guide to Protecting Seniors from Fraud
If you’ve found yourself stepping into a more active role in your parents’ financial lives, you’re not alone. Some of us are helping aging parents navigate everything from healthcare decisions to bill payments—and increasingly, we’re...
Read MoreSmart Moves to Consider Before Year-End
The final months of the year can sneak up quickly, and with them come deadlines, decisions, and distractions. Before the holiday season takes over your calendar, fall can be a valuable window to revisit your financial strategy and...
Read MoreBreaking Down the One Big Beautiful Bill Act: What You Need to Know
The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 (TCJA) included lower federal income tax brackets, bigger standard deductions, and higher gift and estate tax exemptions, among other provisions. The law stipulated that some of those tax breaks would...
Read MoreWhy More Families Are Choosing to Gift Wealth Earlier—and How to Do It
Estate management isn’t just about what happens after you’re gone— it’s also about what you can do now to help manage future estate taxes, transfer wealth strategically, and attempt to create a meaningful impact during your lifetime....
Read MoreWhat You Need to Know About the 2025 Changes to Inherited IRA Rules
The rules regarding inherited IRAs have changed in the last five years, and failing to comply with the new requirements may result in IRS penalties. These changes affect people inheriting IRAs and those looking to leave retirement...
Read MoreBeyond Salary: Understanding Your Total Compensation
Compensation is more than just a number on a paycheck. Whether you're exploring new opportunities, preparing for a promotion, or evaluating your current benefits, it’s important to understand the full value of your total...
Read MoreHow Much Do You Really Know About Stock Market Indexes?
While you may follow the various stock indexes on the nightly business news, how much do you know about their histories, how they work, and why they're important? We pulled together some information and interesting facts about some of...
Read MoreHow Do You Turn Retirement Savings into a Reliable Income Strategy?
You’ve likely spent years building your retirement nest egg—saving diligently, investing wisely, and contributing to retirement accounts along the way. But transitioning from earning a paycheck to relying on your savings can feel...
Read More“The Four Most Dangerous Words In Investing Are: ‘This Time It’s Different.’” – Sir John Templeton
Despite those who say the conventional wisdom that has guided investor actions over the years is no longer valid in 2025, remember the famous quote from legendary investor Sir John Templeton: "The four most dangerous words in investing...
Read MoreWhat’s the Job Market Look Like for 2025 Graduates?
It’s graduation season—a time of celebration and new beginnings. For families with college seniors, this time can bring both excitement and uncertainty. While some graduates have jobs lined up, many others still are navigating job...
Read MoreIs It Smarter to Buy or Rent a Second Home?
As summer approaches, your thoughts may drift toward escaping your daily routine. Whether your idea of a perfect vacation is sitting on a pristine beach, fishing in a mountain lake, or playing the back nine between pickleball matches,...
Read MoreFrom College Acceptances to Affordability: Considerations for Families in the Final Stretch
April is a pivotal time in the college admissions process. After years of preparation, saving, and investing—not to mention the countless hours spent on exam prep, campus visits, and perfecting applications and essays—the finish line...
Read MoreSpring Into Financial Wellness: Actionable Steps for Financial Literacy Month
April isn’t just about filing taxes—it’s also Financial Literacy Month, a perfect opportunity to reflect on your financial habits, expand your knowledge, and take meaningful steps toward improving your financial well-being. Whether...
Read More10 Things You Can Do Now to Help Simplify Your Estate for Your Heirs
One of the greatest gifts you can give your loved ones is a thoughtful estate strategy that outlines your wishes after you are gone. Discussing estate details with your team of professionals is another way to help manage your legacy...
Read MoreThe Evolving Role of Women in Family Finances
March is Women’s History Month, and according to a recent survey, 49% of women consider themselves to be the chief financial officer of their households, up from 41% in 2021.1 Those numbers are even more impressive when you consider...
Read MoreDon’t Leave Money Behind: Finding Your Missing 401(k)s
You've worked hard throughout your life to build assets to support your retirement. As financial professionals, one of the most critical functions we provide is helping clients determine their retirement income needs and structuring a...
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