How Earnings Can Guide Investors in Difficult Markets
With markets nervous about stubborn inflation, a gradually slowing labor market, and the timing of the first Fed rate cut, investors are more focused on this corporate earnings season than usual. This is because while the economy has avoided a “hard landing” corporate earnings only began to rebound in the second half of 2023. Since […]
Why Cash Is Not a Long-Term Investment
In times of market uncertainty, investors often seek the safety of cash. This has been true over the past several years as markets have swung due to the pandemic, geopolitical events, Fed rate hikes, inflation, gridlock in Washington, technology trends, and more. More recently, the possibility of worse-than-expected inflation and a delay of the first […]
Navigating the Ripple Effects: Oil Prices’ Influence on Inflation, Federal Policies, and Market Dynamics
The stock market has become increasingly jittery, with the S&P 500 experiencing its first 5% pullback of the year. The possibility that the Fed could delay its first rate cut, the decline of technological and artificial intelligence stocks, and tensions in the Middle East have all contributed to the market swoon. In uncertain market environments […]
Economic & Market Commentary Q1 2024
2024 began with debates over a “soft” versus “hard” landing as the Fed attempted to stabilize the economy, as well as over the sustainability of last year’s market rally. Only three months later, those concerns have given way to a calmer environment centered around fading inflation and the Fed’s plans for reducing interest rates. This […]
California’s High Earners: Facing a Significant SDI Tax Increase: What You Need to Know
California’s implementation of SB951, removing the cap on State Disability Insurance (SDI), marks a significant shift in tax obligations for high-income earners. This legislative change is twofold: not only has the cap on SDI been eliminated, allowing the tax to apply to all earned income, but the SDI tax rate itself has increased to 1.1%. […]
The Horizon Beyond the Runway: Navigating Success in Investing and Beyond
In the nuanced world of aviation, pilots are taught a lesson of paramount importance as they approach the runway: the instinct to focus on the stretch of tarmac directly in front might seem logical, yet the key to a smooth landing lies in looking far down the runway. This approach, emphasizing faith in the journey […]
Creating an Income Stream in Retirement: Withdrawal Considerations, Taxes, and More
There’s more to a retirement plan than ensuring you’ve saved enough to stop working. Thinking about how to strategically withdraw from that savings is just as important as focusing on your growing nest egg number. A sound withdrawal strategy can make your money last longer, reduce your taxes, and allow you to spend more. Here […]
Legacy Planning 101: Ensuring Your Spouse’s Wishes Live On
In the world of finance, legacy planning isn’t just about numbers; it’s about preserving a story. For our clients, navigating the estate planning maze with their family values in mind can be a powerful way to honor and continue their spouse’s legacy. Of course, this is often easier said than done! Let’s go over a […]
What Is a DAF, and Should I Open One for Charitable Giving?
Donor-advised funds (DAFs) have gained popularity as versatile charitable giving accounts. DAFs allow donors (account holders) to receive immediate tax deductions while strategically directing payments to charitable organizations over time. In this article, we’ll delve into the fundamentals of DAFs, their operational aspects, potential benefits, strategic utilization, and considerations to help you determine if they […]
Resetting Your Financial Goals & Values At The End Of The Year
As we approach the end of the year, it’s the perfect time for some personal reflection. Reviewing your personal goals, celebrating achievements, and realigning your values with your finances can be a powerful exercise. Let’s dig into what a “financial reset” can look like and how it can help you build a plan for 2024 […]