Industry Insights

No matter who you are or where you come from, you have goals in life. But no matter who you are or where you come from, there will come a time when you encounter obstacles to your goals.

As mentioned in previous blogs about planning for retirement, here is another practical retirement-related step you can take. This one is also very simple, and can apply to pretty much everyone. Make a List of Retirement Goals When it comes to retirement, besides the myriad of things you know you need to plan for financially, don’t ignore creating a very important VISION of your future that may help you to look forward to retiring rather than be concerned over it!

Ever ridden in a car with worn-out shock absorbers? Every bump is jarring, every corner stomach-churning, and every red light an excuse to assume the brace position. Owning an undiversified portfolio can trigger similar reactions. In a motor vehicle, the suspension system keeps the tires in contact with the road and provides a smooth ride for passengers by offsetting the forces of gravity, propulsion, and inertia.

Back in 2015, former President Obama called on the Department of Labor (DOL) to update certain regulations regarding the financial services industry. The end result was a new rule largely known as the “DOL Fiduciary Rule.” To put it very simply, this rule requires all financial advisors to act in the best interests of their clients when giving advice on retirement accounts.

No matter who you are or where you come from, you have goals in life. Things you want to do. The type of person you want to become. It’s a common link between all men and women who have ever lived or ever will live. Inside each of us is a restless soul who wants to do more than they have, or be more than they are. But no matter who you are or where you come from, there will come a time when you encounter obstacles to your goals. There will be times when the odds are stacked against you....

There has been much discussion in the news recently about new nominal highs in stock indices like the Dow Jones Industrial Average and the S&P 500. When markets hit new highs, is that an indication that it’s time for investors to cash out? History tells us that a market index being at an all-time high generally does not provide actionable information for investors. For evidence, we can look at the S&P 500 Index for the better part of the last century.

Every January, it’s customary to take a look back at the year that was. What were the highlights? What were the “lowlights”? What got us to where we are today? What were the events we’ll always remember? Most importantly, what did we learn? To answer that, let’s briefly recap some of the most notable events of 2016. Some have to do with politics and some with the markets. I’ll even throw a little “sports talk” in. Then see if you can spot a common theme.

I expect to pass through this world but once. Any good thing, therefore, that I can do or any kindness that I can show to any fellow creature, let me do it now. Let me not defer nor neglect it, for I shall not pass this way again. —Étienne de Grellet du Mabillier (1773–1855) With 2016 coming to a close, I feel it important for us to remember our blessings, to remember the goodness we have in our lives, and to offer that goodness to bless others. This year, many have experienced great loss and...

The close of each calendar year brings with it the holidays as well as a chance to look forward to the year ahead. In the coming weeks, investors are likely to be bombarded with predictions about what the future, and specifically the next year, may hold for their portfolios. These outlooks are typically accompanied by recommended investment strategies and actions that are aimed at trying to avoid the next crisis or missing out on the next “great” opportunity.

The days are getting shorter, and colder too. Leaves are changing, fall is here, and Thanksgiving is fast approaching. As you know, Thanksgiving is a time to gather with family, friends, and other loved ones. A time to acknowledge what (and who!) we have, and express how thankful we are for all of it. A time to spread love, gratitude, and good spirits, as well as make memories and tell each other how much we care. And don’t forget—it’s also a time for delicious food and fun!