Blog
Financial Designations Explained
The financial services industry is full of acronyms, but do you know what they actually mean? To most, it looks like alphabet soup. But if you understand how to read them, you’re in a much better position to decide who you trust.
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The Long-Term Care Conversation
Long-term care is one of the most overlooked pieces of a retirement plan. With costs averaging $116K/year and rising, knowing your options ahead of time can make all the difference. Here's what to consider.
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Another Year, Another V
The market everyone was ready to bury in March just hit three new record highs. Oil collapsed. AI found a new champion. And $7.6 trillion is still sitting on the sidelines. Another year, another V.
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Memories of Memory: From the Moon Landing to the AI Revolution
Memory chips don't make headlines. But they quietly power everything from your smartphone to AI. Here's why the most overlooked component in tech may be the most important one to understand right now.
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10 Keys to Longevity
Most people my age are slowing down. I'm not. Here are the 10 things I actually do — not just recommend — to stay sharp, strong, and in the game in at 70.
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Assume It’s a Scam
Today's scammers don't look suspicious. They look like your bank, sound like your grandchild, and can now appear on video as someone you trust. Here's what you need to know to protect yourself.
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When the World Gets Loud, Stay the Course
From Pearl Harbor to 9/11 to COVID — every major geopolitical shock has passed, and long-term investors were rewarded for staying the course. Here's what the data says about moments like this one.
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How Should You Own Your Home? A Practical Guide Under Michigan Law
Choosing how to title your real estate is more than paperwork. Here is a practical framework under Michigan law to help you think through your goals and circumstances ahead of discussing with an estate planning attorney.
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The Four Retirement Income Identities
Why do some retirees feel confident while others feel anxious with the same savings? Discover the four retirement income identities and how matching your strategy to your personality can reduce stress and second guessing.
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The Hidden Risks of Adding Children as Joint Owners on Your Home
Thinking of adding your kids to your deed? It seems like an easy estate hack, but it could expose your home to their creditors, ex-spouses, and unexpected tax bills. Read why you should think twice.
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Understanding Medicare's IRMAA Surcharge for 2026
Medicare isn't one fixed price. High earners often pay an extra amount called IRMAA. Lets breaks down how the surcharge works, why it exists, and the official income tiers for 2026.
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RWP Team Life Updates: A Year in Review
As we wrap up another year in the markets and prepare for 2026, we wanted to step away from the charts and balance sheets for a moment to connect on a more personal level. Here's what our team has been up to this year!
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Year-End Checklist
Finish the year strong with our essential financial checklist. We cover the key planning steps you need to take now to ensure a confident start to 2026.
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MI State Tax Change for Retirees
Michigan’s new “Lowering MI Costs Plan” can dramatically cut or even eliminate state income tax on many retirees’ IRA and pension withdrawals starting in 2026, but the rules are nuanced and planning ahead is essential.
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The AI Trade: Profit or Peril?
Matt and Steve just tackled this on their last episode of the Retirement Approved podcast, but after this week’s Nvidia earnings report, the “AI bubble” buzz is back—louder than ever—so here’s my quick take.
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Honoring Our Veterans: The Legacy of Service and Sacrifice
Freedom endures because of those who serve. Today, we honor our veterans and express our deepest gratitude for their courage and commitment.
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The AI Train Keeps Chugging – Is it a Bubble?
The AI boom mirrors the 19th-century railroad frenzy, which once made up 63% of the stock market. With Nvidia as the new rail baron, could today's AI train be heading for a similar derailment?
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Key Ages That Shape Your Retirement Plan
Some birthdays bring more than cake—they unlock key financial milestones. From catch-up contributions to penalty-free withdrawals, these ages can help you save smarter and make the most of retirement.
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The Truth About Risk Tolerance
Risk tolerance shapes your entire financial future—from asset allocation to retirement readiness. But what if the way most investors think about risk is missing something critical?
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Government Shutdowns
When Congress can't agree on funding, the federal government grinds to a halt. What does this mean for markets, federal workers, and the economy? Here's what investors need to know.
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Are You Afraid of Heights?
Fear of heights is common, but fear of investing at market highs affects nearly every investor. Can data and discipline beat anxiety and help reach financial goals—even when stocks are climbing?
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Timeless Rules of Investing
Smart investors don’t chase the latest hot stock or try to time the market. They follow timeless rules that work. Learn the principles that help investors build, grow, and preserve wealth for the long haul.
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10 ETFs Your Kids Can Buy and Hold Forever
We get questions all the time about what clients’ kids should buy. For young investors with decades ahead, these 10 low-cost ETFs offer a simple, diversified path to let compounding work and build wealth over time.
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5 Ideas to Consider Before the Fed Begins Cutting Rates
With Fed rate cuts potentially on the horizon, high-yield savings rates may soon drop as well. Let's take a look at some savvy ways to keep your cash working harder, even as rates fall.
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The Gambler’s Guide: Life, Luck & When to Walk Away
Gambling isn’t just luck—it’s history, math, and brain chemistry working against you. The real opponent isn’t the house—it’s the system. Know when to walk away. Or run.
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One Big Beautiful Bill: How to Plan, Not Panic
The One Big Beautiful Bill just changed the tax game. Lower rates extended, new deductions added — but many perks are temporary. Here’s what retirees need to know now.
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Stablecoins in 2025
Stablecoins are no longer just crypto’s “arcade tokens”—they’re powering a $250B digital dollar revolution, reshaping global payments, banking, and the very future of money.
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How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Roth Conversion
Worried about a retirement tax bomb? It’s time to stop fearing the blast and start loving the solution. Learn how a Roth conversion lets you cut the right wire—before the IRS triggers your financial Doomsday Device.
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IPOs Are Back
The IPO market is heating up! After a 3 year drought, fresh listings are grabbing headlines and turning heads again. But what's fueling this comeback, and should you be paying attention? Let's take a look.
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The Psychology of Retirement: Why Emotional Planning Matters Just as Much as Financial Planning
We often celebrate retirement as the finish line—but it’s really the start of an entirely new chapter. And to thrive in it, emotional planning matters just as much as financial strategy.
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Deal or No Deal: 2025’s High-Stakes Economic Game
The global economy in 2025 feels like a high-stakes round of Deal or No Deal-uncertainty reigns, trade truces are fragile, and every policy move could reveal a surprise. Are investors ready to open the next briefcase?
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Charts: The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly
While headlines warn of uncertainty and tariffs, hard data shows consumers and businesses are still spending. Why is sentiment slumping even as the numbers stay strong? Let’s dig into the good, the bad, and the ugly.
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Trade Wars: The Dumb and Dumber Economy
What do Jim Carrey comedies have to do with America’s trade wars? This article pits the reckless “Dumb and Dumber” economy against the bubble-wrapped “Truman Show”—and asks if the U.S. can break free from both extremes.
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Market Update: Navigating a Market Under Construction
Feeling overwhelmed by market noise, uncertainty, and dramatic headlines? You’re not alone. But what if this isn’t a crash, just a market under construction—paving the way for a stronger financial future?
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What A Week?
Markets took a wild ride as Trump hit pause on tariffs—except for China, which faces a 145% hike. Wall Street cheered, but the party was over just as quickly as it began. The trade saga appears to be far from over.
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Poise Under Pressure: Lessons from Baseball and Investing
Baseball season is in full swing, bringing hope and excitement to fans. Meanwhile, market volatility has investors feeling stuck in a slump. Read as Matt connects the patience, strategy, and resilience needed in both baseball and investing.
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Judgement Day or Utopia? The Truth About AI's Future
As artificial intelligence evolves from science fiction to reality, we face an existential question: Will AI usher in a technological utopia or could it lead to humanity’s demise? The truth, as always, lies somewhere in between.
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The Fulfillment Factor: Your Playbook for Finding Purpose in Retirement
Retirement isn’t just about money—it’s about meaning. The Fulfillment Factor helps you stay active, avoid boredom, and create a life of purpose by balancing financial security with fulfillment. Make your next chapter truly rewarding!
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Memecoin Madness: What the Heck is Going On?
Memecoins are back, as Trump Coin skyrockets to a mind-boggling $38.5 billion market cap in less than a week. But beneath the hype and soaring valuations lies a familiar pattern that has many asking: What the heck is really going on here?
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Markets Don’t Care About Your Predictions
Think market predictions can guide your investments? Think again. Discover why chasing forecasts is a losing game and learn how to focus on what truly matters for long-term success.
Read MoreSocial Security Fairness Act: A Milestone for Public Service Workers
Congress passes legislation to eliminate controversial pension offsets, potentially altering benefits for millions of public sector retirees and raising questions about Social Security's long-term funding.
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Swinging For The Fences
J.P. Morgan conducted an analysis to determine the frequency of catastrophic losses. How can investors protect against this risk and better position themselves to hit more home runs?
Read MoreRoth Conversion: When It Makes Sense and When It Doesn’t
A Roth conversion can be a game-changing retirement strategy, but it's not the right move for everyone. Let's take a look at when it makes financial sense – and when you're better off keeping your retirement savings where they are.
Read MoreAre Taxes Going Up?
They say the only two certainties in life are death and taxes, and in the U.S., it’s unclear which is feared more. The election is less than a month away, and the outcome could determine the future for tax policy. Should we be worried?
Read MoreChecking in on The American Consumer
Consumer spending drives close to 70% of the U.S. economy. Buying a plane ticket, going see a movie, eating out, and purchasing a gift for a loved all grow our $28 trillion each time we swipe our credit cards. So, how are we doing?
Read MoreThe Art of Predicting Recessions
How many months do you think the US has been in a recession since 2009? Surprisingly, just two months. In the 15 years since the end of the Great Financial Crisis, the U.S. economy has been in recession for only about 1% of the time....
Read MoreWhat’s Your Type?
Growth and value investors are often as far apart philosophically as Democrats and Republicans. Why so much controversy, and are the chances of bipartisanship any better in the stock market than in D.C.?
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Do Elections Matter for Stocks?
If the past few weeks are any indication of the political drama ahead, we could witness the most contentious presidential election in our nation’s history. But will any of this matter six months from now?
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Money Hacks
It feels like life is getting more expensive by the day. But there are money hacks that may offset the rising costs. Most require little effort, cost nothing to implement, and can actually be fun.
Read MoreCandy for Boomers
The Wall Street Journal recently reported that Baby boomers have flocked to a hot new class of Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) that aim to ease the pain of investing in the stock market. The article referred to these funds as “Boomer...
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Who I Read
The Internet and regulation democratized access to information, but this has arguably created bigger problems for investors. How do we consume all of it, can we trust who’s creating it, and how can it make us better informed?
Read MorePodcasts Really Killed The Radio Star
Podcasts have exploded for good reasons. They’re free and provide access to some of the smartest minds in every subject imaginable. Here are the investing podcasts that I follow religiously.
Read MoreHistory May Not Repeat, But Could It Rhyme?
Past performance does not predict future returns, but market cycles often exhibit similar characteristics. We’ve been in a bull market for over twenty months, so what can history tell us about what might happen next?
Read MoreShould We Go Away?
The stock market is back at all-time highs, but the summer is now upon us. Is it time to “sell in May and go away,” or will this year be different? Let’s look at the data and current trading landscape to see if this adage has merit.
Read MoreInvesting for the Apocalypse
In a world facing AI, mounting U.S. debt, and potential conflict, discussions on investing for societal collapse emerge. In an apocalypse, traditional assets lose value, necessitating a reevaluation of investment strategies.
Read MoreLet Them Step on The Same Rake.
GameStop, AMC, Blackberry, Tupperware, and other meme stocks from 2021 are back from the dead. What is a meme stock, what spurred this reincarnation, and will the outcome be any different this time?
Read MoreIs It Time To Sell Everything?
The stock market had a great start to the year, but recently, it’s pulled back. At the same time, the proliferation of warnings from high-profile investors has spiked online. Should we take these seriously?
Read MoreWhat If This Is World War III?
Geopolitical turmoil is at a generational high, and many investors worry that this is the start of the next World War. If so, how could another large-scale conflict impact the stock market?
Read MoreFOMO vs. FOBO: Which is Worse?
FOMO and FOBO are key psychological forces. FOMO is well-known, but FOBO is its lesser-known yet influential counterpart, raising questions about which fear is more powerful in shaping our decisions.
Read MoreThe Canary in The Coal Mine
There’s an old saying that hindsight is 20/20, but this maxim provides little value to the victims that lost everything. How can hindsight help the rest of us, and what can we do to protect against the unknown?
Read MoreWho’s Betting Against Trump?
Trump Media recently went public, and it’s become the most popular stock to short. How exactly does short selling work, why would an investor want to do it, and what does it mean for Trump Media’s future?
Read MoreHGTV Is Wrong.
Despite what countless home improvement shows preach, a home is not an investment. But renting isn’t always the best idea either. The answer lies in recognizing the difference between assets and investments and knowing how to use both.
Read MoreStrategies for Unused 529 Balances
The expenses associated with higher education continue to climb. As seen on the graph below, in the last three decades, education costs have increased at approximately 3x the rate of the overall CPI. Out of curiosity, I looked at the...
Read MoreThat’s A Big Burrito.
Rising stock prices can create challenges for companies and investors. To alleviate these high-class problems, boardrooms often authorize a stock split. What exactly is a stock split, and how does it work?
Read MoreWhen Is The Right Time to Buy Stocks?
Miss that bus ride and you may never meet your spouse. Launch a business before a major recession, and your life savings may vanish. Timing is often critical in life, so what can investors do to improve their odds of success when buying sto
Read MoreDon’t Let Them Get in Your Head
The media has a powerful influence on its audience, and more times than not, what they choose to report on does not line up with what matters most. This disconnect can pose real risk to investors.
Read MoreAre They Really That Magnificent?
Seven stocks in the S&P 500 have been coined the “Magnificent 7” for good reason, but their meteoric rise is making some investors nervous that this could be the start of the next big tech bubble. Should we be concerned?
Read MoreWhich Candidate Is Best for Stocks?
The presidential election will soon arrive, and the punditry has already begun. Democrats and Republicans are using history to show why their party is best for investors. Let’s do our own analysis to see which side is telling the truth.
Read MoreThe Seven Deadly Investor Sins
Investing sins, like envy, greed, and pride, arise from emotional traps leading to poor decisions. Counter with virtues: patience, diligence, temperance, humility, charity, self-control, and freedom for a disciplined approach to investing.
Read MoreTake the Red Pill
Behavioral economics combines psychology, economics, and finance to explain why investors make irrational decisions. We all can benefit by learning to avoid common psychological traps and recognizing when others are caught in them.
Read MoreAnother All-Time High?
Most major equity indices have recovered from a tumultuous 2022, and investor sentiment appears to be mixed. Some view all-time highs as a sign to take profits, while others view it as laying the foundation for future gains. Who’s right?
Read MoreAre Stocks Safer Than Cash?
The amount of cash sitting on the sidelines is at an all-time high, and it appears that many investors prefer the safety of cash to stocks. But how do the risk profiles of both change over time, and could these investors be at risk?
Read MoreState of The Markets
The U.S. should be in a recession right now. At least, that’s what pundits and economists were telling us a year ago. But we’re not in a recession. It’s time for some new positioning that is more suited to thrive in this New Economic Order.
Read MoreThe Cointucky Derby Begins!
In the world of finance, we are witnessing the start of a thrilling race – a race that is reminiscent of the prestigious Kentucky Derby, but with a digital twist. Welcome to what the cryptocurrency community is calling The Cointucky Derby.
Read MoreFinancial Farce: Navigating the Circus of Bad Advice in the Social Media Age
Step right up! Enter the world of financial advice where stock market gurus flash their wins and the next doomsday is just around the corner—all served up on the silver platter of social media.
Read MoreOld Financial Wives’ Tales
Never invest in all-time highs. You can’t put a price on education. Volatility measures risk. Rising national debt is bad for stocks. Don’t start saving for retirement until you are in your 40s…
Read MoreYou’ve Worked Too Hard
The year is coming to a close, and with some material changes to taxes taking effect, now could be the time to take advantage of ways to lower your tax bill without risking jail time. Here are ten worth discussing with your accountant.
Read MoreCan This “Everything Rally” Keep Going?
It was a November to remember for financial markets. Stocks, bonds, gold, and even bitcoin surged higher. What could have caused so many asset classes to move in sync, and could the bulls charge all the way into the New Year?
Read MoreWhere’s The Money Coming From?
Holiday shopping accounts for over 90% of some retailers' annual revenue. So far, spending this season is on track to be the best ever. Given all the headwinds facing consumers, where’s the money coming from, and will it last?
Read MoreSeeing Is Believing.
One of the easiest ways to ensure we remember information in our long-term memory is to pair concepts with meaningful visuals. Here are ten investment lessons that can be explained using a single image.
Read MoreWhat Is Private Equity?
Investments that do not fall into the equity or fixed income buckets are often called “alternative investments.” One that has gained much attention over the last several years is private equity, and for good reason.
Read MoreThe Art of Diversification: Balancing Risk and Reward in Your Retirement Portfolio
Diversification is a cornerstone of prudent retirement planning, but it's important to understand that it comes with its own set of challenges. There’s a famous quote in the financial planning industry, that "diversification...
Read MoreIs There A Silver Lining?
Consumers and businesses tend to fear recessions for good reason. They can wreak havoc on the economy, ignite tremendous financial pressures, and wipe out years of investment gains. But it’s not all bad, all the time.
Read MoreWill This Horror Story Ever End?
The bond market has been in a bear market for longer than any other time in history and seems to be getting worse by the day. Is it time to throw in the towel, or will it find its footing?
Read MoreShould We Just Give Up?
Active versus passive remains one of the longest-running financial debates. Is active management a relic of the past, and if so, why do investors continue to pay fees to a manager when they can buy an index fund instead?
Read MoreThe Future Ain’t What It Used To Be.
There’s an old saying that the words of truth are paradoxical. It’s hard to think of a skill where success is more reliant upon the acceptance of paradoxes than investing. Here are just a few worth remembering.
Read MoreIs There A Way In?
Arm Holdings is preparing to go public this month in the largest IPO of the year, and the hype surrounding this listing has attracted investors of all sizes. How exactly does a company go public, and how can everyday investors participate?
Read MoreCrypto Q&A: Top Questions Regarding Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Other Cryptocurrencies
In the dynamic world of cryptocurrency, curiosity and confusion often intertwine. In this article, we address the most common and pressing questions our clients have raised about the world of digital assets.
Read MoreCaveat Emptor (“Buyer Beware”)
There is no shortage of investment scams out there, and the predators who target unsuspecting investors are becoming more sophisticated. Learn why investors should always view an advertisement as guilty until proven innocent.
Read MoreIs This a Correction?
The stock market has surged higher this year, and a recent pullback is fueling speculation that a “correction” could be coming. If so, how bad could it get, and does it make sense to get out now
Read MoreWhy Aren’t We in a Recession?
Nearly every economist expected the U.S. to be in a recession by now, but instead, the economy continues to grow. Why were so many forecasts so wrong, and does this imply that the coast is now clear?
Read MoreWill It Ever Stop?
The U.S. sovereign credit rating was downgraded this week due to stratospheric debt accumulation and endless debt ceiling standoffs. Is the government spending too much, and if so, how will our country ever pay it all back?
Read MoreHow Is The Market Doing?
When asked about “the market,” the question invariably refers to the performance of the S&P 500 index. But how does this index work, and is it the best benchmark for investors to keep on track?
Read MoreIs This “1984 on Steroids?”
The Federal Reserve is experimenting with a Central Bank Digital Currency, and the ramifications, if implemented, could upend the global financial system. Could this become a reality, and if so, how would that impact our lives?
Read MoreThis One Could Be A Doozy
We’re only 18 months away from another presidential election, and this one could be the most contentious in a generation. With so much on the line, let’s assess the market impact of a presidential election.
Read MoreHalftime Report 2023
The first half of the year was a welcome reprieve from the carnage of 2022. The Fed is no longer in “crisis mode,” indexes have surged higher, and Wall Street is changing its tune on the possibility of a soft landing.Add it...
Read MoreHas The Tide Turned?
The recent shift in stocks from fear and panic to optimism could suggest that the tide has turned. But even if this bull market is here to stay, that doesn’t imply the coast is clear. What should we expect in the second half of 2023?
Read MoreDo You Have What It Takes?
Long term investors often preach the dangers of day trading, but that doesn’t mean it’s a fool’s errand. There are five traits that are critical for any trader to not just thrive but also survive. Do you have them?
Read MoreIs This A New Bull Market?
Stock market indices are up over 20% from their lows in October. For many investors, that’s the definition of a new bull market. But with the economy slowing and expectations of a recession still looming, is it too soon to be bullish?
Read MoreIs This Another Bubble?
Artificial intelligence has taken the world by storm, and some AI-themed stocks have tripled in months. Is this the beginning of the next big thing, or is this just another bubble that will inevitably burst?
Read MoreSimple Isn’t Easy
Warren Buffett has built unimaginable wealth by following a strategy predicated on patience, discipline, and compounding. What can we learn from his success to help get us closer to our financial goals?
Read MoreHere We Go Again
The debt ceiling is back in the news, and the fear campaign will likely amplify over the coming months. Could a U.S. default trigger financial Armageddon, and if so, what are the odds it could happen?
Read MoreLearning The Hard Way
One cohort that had little reason to sell last year may have sold the most. Now that they’ve presumably missed much of the recovery since then, is all hope lost, or could there be salvation in their future?
Read MoreShould We Believe?
Blaise Pascal was a brilliant seventeenth century mathematician and philosopher. He was also a devout Catholic and devised a compelling argument for why one should believe in God. His case was predicated on the notion that while it's...
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Quarterly Update
The first quarter was a welcome reprieve from the carnage endured last year. Most major indices were positive, and the Nasdaq even entered a new bull market. Bitcoin soared over 70%.But the quarter wasn’t without drama....
Read MoreIs The Dollar Losing It?
Now that the banking crisis appears to be in the rearview mirror, the media’s “fear du jour” has shifted to the U.S. dollar losing its reserve currency status. Could this happen, and if so, what should investors do to prepare?
Read MoreShould We Just Buy Treasuries?
Treasury bonds are risk-free and now paying the most since 2007. Given all the volatility, why not sell everything, go buy a 6-month Treasury bond, and call it a day?
Read MoreOne of These is not Like the Others.
Banks failing left and right. Governments bailing out others on the brink. Healthier banks taking out rivals at pennies on the dollar. While this may feel like déjà vu all over again, it’s not the same.
Read MoreSilicon Valley Bank Run
On Wednesday, Silicon Valley Bank was a well-respected institution that catered to elite clientele. By Friday, they were shut down. What happened, and should we be worried?
Read MoreCollecting Rent Checks.
John D. Rockefeller once said, “Do you know the only thing that gives me pleasure? It's to see my dividends coming in.” Given the importance of dividends over the last half-century, it’s hard to disagree.
Read MoreChomping on Broken Glass.
In a normal year, forecasting annual returns is hard. But this year is shaping up to be anything but normal. So, what are the brightest minds on Wall Street saying, and should we be listening?
Read MoreIs Artificial Intelligence a Threat?
I recently asked some tough questions to one of the foremost experts on technology and its impact on financial markets. The goal was to address the elephant in the room – will financial advisors become obsolete?
Read MoreWhat Are We Watching?
Gross Domestic Product for the last quarter was positive, but it’s a lagging indicator with little predictive power. Investors should focus more on leading indicators, so let’s look at the top five we are watching right now.
Read MoreIs It Getting Any Better?
I was interviewed by the advisory team this week to talk about markets and answer tough questions on our outlook for 2023. We transcribed the conversation below.Is inflation really falling? Inflation is a currency phenomenon....
Read MoreState of The Markets
The Fed ignored inflation for way too long, and by the time they reversed course, it was too late. The inflation genie was released from the bottle, and they’ve frantically tried to put it back in ever since.The good news is that...
Read MoreSecure Act 2.0 Changes Explained
Americans have been warned about a looming retirement crisis for decades. Recently, President Biden signed a spending bill that includes new rules attempting to improve the retirement landscape. Will they work?
Read MoreDo As I Say, Not As I Did
Here are ten investing lessons that I’ve had to learn the hard way during my career. Most of these were the direct result of making stupid mistakes or relying too heavily on formulas rather than intuition. Hopefully these will...
Read MoreCould The Fed Pull It Off?
Wall Street appears to be unanimous. A recession is in the cards for next year, and there’s no way around it. While there is certainly a case to be made to support this consensus view, what if they’re wrong?
Read MoreWill We Run Out of Fuel?
Diesel fuels the global economy, and the outlook going into next year looks grim. With inventories at the lowest level in decades and prices continuing to rise, could this spark the next global crisis?
Read MoreCan Mid-Term Elections Help Stocks?
Mid-term elections are days away, and history has much to say about their impact on the stock market. Given all that has transpired this year, could new leadership in D.C. be enough to turn this market around?
Read MoreWhat Is Short Selling?
Those who are brave enough to short stocks and other asset classes garner a lot of bad press, but they serve an invaluable function for markets. How exactly does short selling work, and why would an investor want to do it?
Read MoreQuarterly Update
The first three quarters for stocks and bonds were collectively the worst since 1931. The Federal Reserve has also made it clear that they don’t want these markets recovering until inflation falls, and it’s hard to fight...
Read MoreIs Cash No Longer Trash?
For years, cash has felt like trash to investors seeking ultra-safe income. But with the Federal Reserve hiking its target interest rate at the fastest pace in decades, cash is back, and investors should take action.
Read MoreWhy Own Bonds?
Textbooks teach us that rising interest rates are bad for the bond market, and this year has confirmed this maxim. So, why would any investor continue to own bonds when interest rates are expected to rise further from here?
Read MoreThe Church of Gold
Gold bugs expected the shiny metal to be a panacea through the highest inflation rate in four decades. Over the last year, it’s failed to attract disciples & delivered losses to those who have kept their faith. Is gold losing its luster?
Read MoreWhat’s In A Name?
Wall Street has a long history of taking innovation that is meant to empower investors and corrupting it into a financial weapon of mass destruction. Single stock ETFs are the most recent iteration, and investors should watch out.
Read MoreShould Biden Forgive Student Debt?
President Biden recently announced a controversial plan to forgive student debt. Pushing politics aside, what’s the economic impact to the U.S. and its taxpayers, and does it warrant any shift in strategy today?
Read MoreTo Be Young Again
The advice I offer the younger generation today isn’t necessarily what I would have told a younger version of myself so long ago. Here are ten things anyone starting out in life can do to increase the odds of building wealth over time.
Read MoreThe Gloves Are Off
Midterm elections are less than three months away, and both political parties are already at war. With so much on the line, what can investors do to mentally prepare for what could become the most contentious election cycle in years?
Read MoreShould We Be Scared?
The first half of 2022 was one of the worst starts to a year. That’s probably why there has been an uptick in the number of scary charts circulating across the internet. Is now the time to heed these warnings, and if so, what’s next?
Read MoreDid The Market Just Bottom?
The half of the year was one of the worst ever for the stock market, but since mid-June, stocks have reversed course. Was that the bottom for the market, and if so, will it get back to smooth sailing from here?
Read MoreIs The Dollar Doomed?
Recently, the “greenback” has surged higher relative to other major currencies and caught the attention of the media and investors globally. Given the dollar’s role in the global economy, what are the implications for U.S. based investors?
Read MoreHalftime Report
The first half was one of the worst starts to a year ever. Record inflation, rising interest rates, and meteoric valuations took the wind out of the sails of financial markets.The fear and panic that has ensued has caught most...
Read MoreWhy We Missed It
The last 6 months were some of the toughest in a generation. Judging by the market indices, most investors didn’t see this coming. Let’s dig deeper to see why long-term goals aren’t dependent upon getting calls like these right every time.
Read MoreThree Words No Investor Wants To Hear
There’s simply no way to sugarcoat the first half of the year. It’s been tough for pretty much everyone, and weeks like these test the resolve of even the most disciplined investors. Now that we’re officially in a...
Read MoreDon’t Let Them Get Inside Your Head
The media can have a powerful influence on its audience, and more times than not, what they choose to report on does not line up with what matters most. This disconnect can pose real risk to investors.
Read MoreHas Inflation Peaked?
There’s an old saying in the commodities market that the cure for high prices is high prices. Will the highest rate of inflation in four decades force consumers and businesses to put away their wallets, or is the worst behind us?
Read MoreFour Things to do in a Bear Market
Bear Markets can be hard on investors. Here are four things you should consider.
Read MoreWhat If This Is A Recession?
The economic data overwhelmingly suggest that the economy is growing, but what if it’s all wrong and we’re at the precipice of the next recession. How bad could it get this time, and what can investors do today to prepare?
Read MoreIs This A Bear Market?
The carnage this year has been relentless, and the S&P 500 is flirting with bear market territory. What can history tell us about the severity of bear markets, and if the index continues to fall, what should investors do next?
Read MoreTake Two And Call In The Morning
While recent volatility is causing headaches for some investors, others argue it feels more like being the victim in a low-budget horror flick. What can investors do to help alleviate some of the pain?
Read MoreIs The Economy OK?
Economists’ track record for forecasting the direction of the U.S. economy have historically been less than stellar. Are their models wrong, and if so, is economic forecasting a fool’s errand?
Read MoreQuarterly Update
The first quarter was one of the most challenging in decades. There was almost nowhere to hide, and those who remained disciplined and diversified were mostly rewarded with paper losses.But it’s only been three months, and...
Read MoreLet’s Take A Breather
We can now close the books on the first quarter of the New Year, and it was one of the more challenging three months in recent history. So, let’s step away from the news flow for a few minutes and look at twenty-two fun facts for 2022.
Read MoreAn Inverted What?
One of the most closely watched recession indicators triggered this week, and the media’s coverage has likely just begun. But how reliable is it, and how long do we have until we need to batten down the hatches?
Read MoreWhat is Amazon Thinking?
Rising stock prices can create challenges for companies and investors. To alleviate these high-class problems, boardrooms often authorize a stock split. What exactly is a stock split, and how does it work.
Read MoreIt’s Not All Bad.
The list of headwinds facing the U.S. economy right now feels longer than normal. But are any of these stronger than the tailwinds pushing the economy forward, and if so, could they last longer?
Read MoreWhy Not Wait Until It All Calms Down?
Inflation, rising interest rates, and one of the worst geopolitical crises since World War II has created a perfect storm for volatility in the stock market. Is there some merit to getting out now and waiting for the volatility to subside?
Read MoreCould This Ignite World War III?
Russia invaded Ukraine this week and sent shockwaves through global financial markets. Could this be the beginning of something bigger, and if so, should investors shift their strategy before it’s too late?
Read MoreAddressing The Recent Market Volatility
During this call, we address four questions regarding the recent volatility in financial markets:What’s being reported in the news?What’s NOT being reported in the news?What are we doing to address the volatility?What...
Read MoreWhat’s Going On Right Now?
I was interviewed this week to talk markets and discuss many of the issues and concerns heard from investors. Tough questions were asked, and as usual, most of them weren’t easy to answer.
Read MoreWe Are Here To Help
When market volatility spikes, investors yearn for the safety and comfort of cash. However, it’s important to always consider who is on the other side of a trade and why they are so willing to make your pain go away.
Read MoreHow Bad Could It Get?
The stock market has had a rough start to the year, and after the stellar performance in 2021, investors appear worried that volatility is here to stay. If so, how bad could it get, and does it make sense to get out now?
Read MoreWill Rising Rates Cause Stocks to Crash?
Now that we are months away from the first Fed rate hike in years, some investors fear that rising interest rates will ignite another recession. Is this warranted, and if so, how much time do we have before things get bad?
Read MoreHow Will The Market Do This Year?
It’s that time of year when investors anxiously await predictions from the brightest minds on Wall Street. What can we learn from this prestigious group, and will they bring good fortune?
Read MoreState of The Markets
Rewind the clock a year and pent-up demand to spend, months of government handouts, and the vaccine primed the U.S. economy to slingshot forward at speeds unseen in generations.As it stands today, there are no more checks in the...
Read MoreThe Church of Gold
Inflation is too much money chasing too few goods, and there’s a goldilocks level where just the right amount is needed for a growing economy. But when inflation spikes, investors, politicians, and most...
Read MoreWill He Come This Year?
It’s that time of year when investors hope that Santa Claus will bring them a year-end rally. Given the meteoric rise in the S&P 500 this year, is there more room to run before the year closes out?
Read MoreWhy Not Sit This One Out?
The stock market has been relatively calm for most of 2021, but this could be coming to an end. Fears over Omicron and inflation appear to be spooking investors for the first time in months. Is it time to take a break?
Read MoreLet's Get Real
The U.S. economy is on fire, yet all investors and the media seem to want to talk about these days is inflation. Is this risk real, and if so, what can we do to protect and prosper while prices keep rising higher?
Read MoreHow It All Began
My family moved around a lot when I was young, but no matter where we were living, we made the pilgrimage to Rockford, Illinois each year to visit our extended family. One of my fondest memories was waking up at the crack of dawn on...
Read MoreIt’s A Jungle Out There
Natural selection drives economies and markets as it does the wild, and it’s unlikely this will ever change. But how we perceive the harsh cruelties within each can determine whether we see risk or opportunity.
Read MoreIs It Happening Again?
On October 19th 1987, the S&P 500 dropped over 20%. Given the eerily similar parallel between the stock market’s climb this year and the price action leading into Black Monday, is history about to repeat itself?
Read MoreLook Under The Hood Before Buying
The first ever bitcoin Exchange Traded Fund (ETF) is finally here, and initial demand has been off the charts. However, it’s unclear how many early adopters of this ETF realize that they don’t actually own bitcoin.
Read MoreQuarter In Review
The economy continued to print numbers in the third quarter that during any other time in history could be mistaken for typos. On a relative basis, we haven’t seen growth like this since post World War II. But high growth rates...
Read MoreWill Congress Raise The Roof?
The Treasury Department is predicting the government will run out of cash in less than two weeks unless the debt ceiling is raised. If not, the U.S. could default on its debt, and if so, what could happen next?
Read MoreThe Worst of The Worst
The market’s response to crisis has been surprisingly favorable over the last three decades, but participating along the way has required much more than simply “staying the course.”
Read MoreIs This A Lehman Moment?
One of China’s largest property developers is on the brink of collapse, and it’s conjuring memories of the days before Lehman Brothers failed. Could this ignite yet another debt-fueled global financial crisis?
Read MoreWords To Live By
Investing affords the opportunity to learn something new every day. Here are ten lessons that have helped guide my investment philosophy and decision-making process over the years.
Read MoreBreaking Up Is Hard To Do
One of the most coveted Wall Street darlings in history emerged in the 1990s and rose to meteoric heights. This firm had a reputation for hiring the best talent, outmaneuvering competition, and making shareholders a lot of money....
Read MoreDon’t Bring A Knife To A Gunfight
Charles Darwin said that it is not the strongest of the species that survives, nor the most intelligent, but the one most responsive to change. It’s time investors consider new strategies to navigate the financial jungle.
Read MoreWhy Are They So Important?
The Federal Reserve Bank is not short on critics, and the controversy surrounding them often feels comparable to a daytime soap opera. What does the Fed do, and why does the world care so much?
Read MoreDow Falls More Than 700 Points!!!
The Dow Jones Industrial Average is a popular stock index used to track the broader U.S. equity market. It fell over 700 points last Monday for its worst day since October, which compelled the media to do what they do.
Read MoreHalftime Report
Markets calmed down somewhat during the second quarter, but that doesn’t imply smooth sailing from here. If anything, less drama has opened the door to fiery debates on the direction of the economy and financial markets. The...
Read MoreWhat's the Catch?
Back in October 2019, Charles Schwab followed Robinhood and eliminated trading commissions. There are no free lunches in this business, so how are discount brokers like Schwab making money if what they broker is now free?
Read MoreShould You Invest With Your Feet?
The growth in “ethical” investing has taken off, and there is little evidence that this trend will slow down anytime soon. But how well does it work, and what risks come along with these strategies?
Read MoreDon't Blow Up
There’s a long list of investment strategies and products that may look good on paper but can create significant risk. Making matters worse, they are accessible to nearly anyone with a brokerage account.
Read MoreIf He Can’t Do It, Neither Can We
Warren Buffett has built unimaginable wealth by following a strategy predicated on patience, discipline, and compounding. What can we learn from his success to help get us closer to our financial goals?
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How Will We Pay It All Back?
While the economy appears to be recovering and the government is preparing to spend at levels unseen since post World War II, the elephant in the room must be addressed. How will we ever pay back all this debt, and if so, when?
Read MoreThe World Is Changing
Let’s examine five trends developing right now that are inextricably linked and could provide clues into how the world will look in the coming years. None of these can match the excitement of meme stocks or over-levered hedge...
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Is This Another Big Short?
The housing market is on fire and stoking fears of another bubble. What is causing this boom, and how similar is today to what ultimately led the U.S. into one of the worst recessions in history?
Read More
Giving Back
Dividends have played a significant role in equity returns over the past 50 years. Given the outperformance of dividend-paying stock versus those that do not, should investors solely focus on portfolios that emphasize dividends?
Read MoreQuarter In Review
There was no shortage of drama during the first quarter of 2021. There are several trends developing in the undercurrents of financial markets that must be watched very closely. It's imperative to keep a mindful eye on what lurks beneath.
Read More
Should We Rent Instead?
Robert Shiller is an economist at Yale University and is regarded as a leading expert on housing. His analysis concludes that real estate generally keeps pace with inflation but seldom offers any return above1. Returns look even less...
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Is Disco Coming Back?
Given the unprecedented monetary and fiscal response over the last year, many pundits are prophesizing a return to 1970s style inflation. Could this really happen, and if so, how should investors prepare their portfolios?
Read More
When Every Instinct Is Wrong
Panic selling is almost always a bad idea, but staying invested through turbulent times is easier said than done. Let’s look to one of the greatest comedic characters of all time for advice on how to handle market volatility.
Read More
High Class Problems
It’s that time of year. Snow is melting, March Madness is approaching, and springtime rains will soon pave the way for May flowers. It’s also when most Americans compile endless paperwork, organize receipts, and meet with...
Read More
Are We Due?
The stock market has had a strong start to the year, but recent all-time highs followed by volatility in closely watched sectors appear to be fueling fears of an imminent correction. Will one happen, and if so, when?
Read More
Reading Below The Obituaries
Meme stocks, cryptocurrencies, and Elon Musk tweets continue to dominate page one headlines. But there are far more important stories and trends developing that are being ignored by the media.
Read More
Meme Stock Mania
Meme stock mania continued this week, and investors don’t appear to be laughing. Could this movement create enough momentum to fuel another dot-com style bubble, and if so, when could it burst?
Read More
When Will This Game Stop?
On January 6th, shares of Signal Advance (ticker: SIGL) closed at $0.60. The next day, Elon Musk tweeted “Use Signal” to his loyal followers, and the stock closed at $3.76 for a jaw dropping gain of 627%. There was just one...
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State of The Markets
Last year will go down as one of the worst ever for economic activity but also as one of the best for markets. These two extremes expose a paradox facing investors that likely isn’t going anywhere anytime soon.
Read MoreWas That A Good Idea?
The decision by large technology companies to ban President Trump and Parler created a firestorm of controversy this week. Could this be the tipping point for Big Tech, and if so, what are the implications for shareholders?
Read MoreShould Investors Fear The Blue Wave?
Joe Biden is going to be the next President of the United States, and it appears that the Democrats will also win both the House and Senate. How will this “blue wave” impact investors, and what can they do to prepare for this sea change?
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Should Investors Go Passive?
Active vs. Passive Active investing attempts to outperform a benchmark or mitigate a risk. For example, a manager aiming to beat the S&P 500 may own a higher percentage of technology stocks than the S&P 500 if her analysis concludes...
Read MoreHow Will The Market Do Next Year?
It’s that time of year when investors anxiously await predictions from the brightest minds on Wall Street. What can we learn from this prestigious group, and will they bring good fortune?
Read More
Should We Celebrate?
The current bull market that began months ago has pushed the Dow Jones Industrial Average to the precipice of cracking 30,000. If it were to cross, it would fly in the face of a tumultuous year that will most likely never be forgotten.
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Is It Time to Buy Bitcoin?
Bitcoin has exploded since March and attracted attention from the media and investors. Adoption continues to grow, and as more support builds for the digital currency, should investors get in now before it’s too late?
Read More
Are Taxes Going Up?
Hurdles Tax policy has taken center stage in the final days before the U.S. presidential election. The polls show Biden with a commanding lead, and many investors fear this will result in higher taxes. However, there are four hurdles...
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The Rise of the Financial Machines
Technology has a long history of disrupting industries by replacing human labor with machines and software, and financial services is not immune. Will the surge in “robo investing” replace traditional advisors one day?
Read More
Solving High-Class Problems
Rising stock prices can create challenges for companies and investors. To alleviate these high-class problems, boardrooms often authorize a stock split. What exactly is a stock split, and how does it work?
Read More
Halftime Report
The uncertainty facing investors has arguably never been higher. While this may be viewed as a harbinger for safety, this is also when opportunity is the most abundant for patient investors with a strong stomach.
Read MoreThe April Paradox
April will go down as one of the worst months ever for economic activity. It will also be remembered as one of the best months for stocks. This paradox has many perplexed. Who could be buying right now with so much uncertainty?
Read MoreAre Stocks Expensive?
Last year was a banner year for U.S. stocks. All sectors within the S&P 500 generated double-digit returns. Now that the stock market continues to reach new highs, is it time to ring the register?
Read MoreWinning the War
Many feel that our country is at war. If we run with this metaphor, then what matters most right now is some sign that we are winning the war. There are two current developments that could turn the tide.
Read MoreHow Is the Market Doing?
When asked how “the market” is doing, the question invariably refers to the performance of the S&P 500 index. However, the stock market and any index that tracks it are rarely appropriate benchmarks for investors.
Read MoreIs This Another 2008?
The surprising level of panic from the coronavirus pandemic is reminiscent of 2008. Is this a warning sign to investors that another financial crisis is on the horizon?
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