May 6, 2025
Supreme Court ERISA Ruling: New Litigation Risks for CFOs, CEOs & HR Professionals
Supreme Court ERISA Ruling: A New Era for Retirement Plan Fiduciaries On April 17, 2025, the U.S. Supreme Court issued a landmark decision that will reshape how lawsuits involving group retirement plans are handled under ERISA-the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974. For CFOs, CEOs, and HR leaders responsible for overseeing your company’s retirement plans, this ruling is a game changer. It lowers the bar for plaintiffs to bring prohibited transaction claims,...
April 15, 2025
Test Your Financial Literacy Knowledge: Financial Planning 101 Quiz
Financial Literacy Quiz Question 1: What is the primary goal of financial planning? A. To maximize spending powerB. To create a roadmap for achieving financial goalsC. To avoid paying taxesD. To increase the number of bank accounts you own Question 2: What is the purpose of a Roth IRA in retirement planning? A. To provide tax deductions for contributionsB. To...
April 15, 2025
Bull vs. Bear Markets: Lessons from U.S. Market History for Today’s Investor
This article was originally published on April 15, 2025, and reflects market conditions at that time. It is not a current market outlook. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Understanding bull and bear markets is essential for navigating the ever-changing financial landscape. These market cycles have shaped the investment strategies of generations, offering valuable lessons for today’s investors. In...
April 15, 2025
April 2025 Economic Forecast: Navigating Turbulence Amid Policy Shifts
This article was originally published on April 15, 2025, and reflects economic conditions and forecasts at that time. It is not a current economic outlook. Forecasts are not guarantees, and results may differ. The global and U.S. economies are facing significant challenges in April 2025, driven by aggressive tariff policies, inflationary pressures, and labor market dynamics. While the labor market...
April 15, 2025
Navigating 2025’s Markets: Balancing Stocks and Bonds for Stability
This article was originally published on April 15, 2025, and reflects market conditions at that time. It is not a current market outlook. Past performance does not guarantee future results. As we move deeper into 2025, investors face a rapidly evolving financial landscape marked by volatility, inflation concerns, and shifting economic policies. Striking the right balance between stocks and bonds...
April 15, 2025
Raising Financially Savvy Kids: Practical Lessons for Parents
Teaching children about money is one of the most impactful ways parents can prepare them for the future. Financial literacy is critical, as studies show gaps in financial knowledge among both adults and youth. By instilling smart money habits early, parents can empower the next generation to make informed decisions and achieve financial independence. Why Teaching Kids About Money Matters...
April 15, 2025
How to Stop Financially Supporting Your Adult Children (And Why It Matters)
In today’s challenging economic climate, many parents find themselves financially supporting their adult children. A 2025 AARP survey of parents age 45 and older found that 75% provide financial support to at least one adult child, contributing about $7,000 a year on average. While this support often stems from love and a desire to help, it can lead to long-term...
March 18, 2025
March 2025 Economic Forecast
This article was originally published on March 18, 2025, and reflects economic conditions and forecasts at that time. It is not a current economic outlook. Forecasts are not guarantees, and results may differ. The U.S. economy in 2025 faces a mix of challenges and opportunities, shaped by rising inflation, market volatility, tariff policies, and recession risks. Below is an overview...
March 18, 2025
From Tariffs to Profits: Mastering Investments in a Trade War Era
This article was originally published on March 18, 2025, and reflects trade policy and market conditions at that time. Tariff policies have changed since then. It is not a current market outlook. The current trade war has significantly reshaped the global economic landscape, with recent developments intensifying market volatility and investor uncertainty. As of March 12, 2025, the United States...
March 18, 2025
Age-Proof Your Wealth: Evolving Investment Strategies for Every Life Stage
Investing is not a one-size-fits-all endeavor. As you progress through different stages of life, your financial goals, risk tolerance, and investment strategies should evolve. Starting Young: Building a Foundation with Limited Resources When you’re just starting out, you may not have much to invest, but you have a powerful ally: time. Here’s how to make the most of it: Remember,...
March 18, 2025
Beneficiary Basics: Why Updating Your Beneficiaries Matters
When it comes to financial planning, updating beneficiaries is a crucial step that’s often overlooked. This simple yet vital task can have far-reaching consequences for your loved ones and the legacy you leave behind. Why Keeping Beneficiaries Updated is Crucial Keeping your beneficiaries up-to-date ensures that your final wishes are honored. It helps avoid legal complications and potential family disputes...
February 17, 2025
Tax Harvesting Explained: Help Optimize Your Portfolio for Lower Taxes
Tax harvesting is a strategic investment technique used to optimize tax efficiency in investment portfolios. There are two main types of tax harvesting: tax-loss harvesting and tax-gain harvesting. Both strategies aim to manage an investor’s tax liability, but they work in different ways and are applicable in different scenarios. What is Tax-Loss Harvesting? Tax-loss harvesting is an investment strategy that...
February 17, 2025
2025 Contribution Limits for IRAs and Group Retirement Plans Update
This article covers the 2025 contribution limits. For the current limits, see our 2026 Retirement Plan Contribution Limits guide. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has announced several adjustments for the 2025 tax year, affecting Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs) and various group retirement plans. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the key changes and limits for 2025. 2025 Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs)...
February 16, 2025
February 2025 Economic Update
This article was originally published on February 16, 2025, and reflects economic conditions and forecasts at that time. It is not a current economic outlook. Forecasts are not guarantees, and results may differ. Here’s a simple breakdown of the current economic conditions, including recent events like tariffs, stock market performance, and other key factors. February 2025 Economic Conditions to Consider...
February 16, 2025
Monarch Money vs Rocket Money: A Comparison of Financial Management Tools
This article was originally published on February 16, 2025. Features and pricing may have changed; check each company’s website for current details. Financial management tools are increasing in popularity, however, it is always difficult to choose which tool to commit to. Monarch Money and Rocket Money are two different tools we compared in early 2025. Features and pricing may have...
February 15, 2025
Preparing for Tax Season: Your April Tax Readiness Guide
As April approaches, it’s time to get organized for the upcoming tax season. Use this tax preparation checklist to help prepare for your taxes and potentially save money: Tax Document Checklist: Gather personal information: Collect income documents: Organize deduction records: Compile business records (if self-employed): Gather investment and retirement account information: Tax-Saving Strategies Maximize IRA Contributions Take advantage of IRA...
February 14, 2025
Financial Planning for Couples: How to Merge and Manage Finances
Navigating finances as a couple can be both exciting and challenging. Whether you’re newly married, cohabitating, or in a long-term relationship, aligning your financial goals and habits is crucial for building a strong foundation. Here are seven tips to help merge your finances while avoiding common pitfalls. 1. Have the Money Conversation Open communication is the cornerstone of financial harmony....
January 13, 2025
Philanthropic Giving: Smart Tax Strategies for Meaningful Impact
This article was originally published on January 13, 2025, and reflects tax rules and conditions at that time. Figures and limits may have changed. As we enter 2025, many individuals are looking to make a positive impact through charitable giving while also optimizing their tax strategies. By employing smart giving techniques, you can maximize both your philanthropic impact and tax...
January 12, 2025
New Year’s Financial Resolutions Check Up List
This article was originally published on January 12, 2025. Figures and limits mentioned may have changed. It’s time to take stock of your financial health and set yourself up for success in the coming year. Here’s a comprehensive check-up list to help you prepare financially for 2025: Create and Stick to a Budget Start by tracking your income and expenses...