11 financial planning and tax-saving moves to make before year end

As we rapidly head into the last few weeks of 2021, now is the time to take care of any time-sensitive financial planning moves and get prepared for 2022.  You may be able to reduce your tax bill, too, with some of these action steps. 1. Maximize your retirement savings You have until December 31 to make any last-minute contributions up to your limit up to $19,500. If you are…

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Staying ahead of the game: how to keep the strong stock market from jeopardizing your life goals

Are you ahead of the game when it comes to achieving your financial independence? Has the unusually strong stock market boosted your wealth to the point where you think you could work less or stop working sooner than expected? Are you at a point where you are increasing your current or future lifestyle expectations? Maybe your experience is all of the above. If so, that’s an exciting feeling. The possibility…

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Why a market correction shouldn’t make you worry

When stock market performance outpaces expectations for an extended period, as it has recently, the anticipation of a market correction (a drop of 10% of more) can worry investors.  But, should you be concerned?  After all, significant drops in the stock markets are fairly common, as are rebounds and new highs.  While market fundamentals play a large role in these fluctuations, so does investor sentiment. This makes it impossible to…

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Ironman Insights: 3 principles to follow to achieve your next big goal

What is one of your big life goals? What’s a wild dream you’d like to achieve? When you’re in the midst of peak busyness, you may feel you can’t go after what you desire. Not true! As we head into the last few months of 2021, now is the perfect time to reflect on what you want to accomplish, not only through the end of the year, but in 2022 and…

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Q2 2021 Quarterly Context Video
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How to think about inflation and investments

There has been a lot of talk lately about inflation, in great part because inflation has been so low for so long, but recently had a small spike.  Unfortunately, when inflation is low, investors tend to forget it is a “sleeper risk,” gradually eroding their purchasing power and lowering after-inflation returns. Below are thoughts to consider. Why does monetary policy matter when it comes to inflation? Historically, periods of major…

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Q121 Quarterly Context Video
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Save more in 2021: 6 opportunities for midlife professionals and business owners

As you reach certain midlife milestones, you gain opportunities to save more money, whether through tax-deferred vehicles or identifying key expenses where you may be overpaying.  Business owners also have a chance to bounce back from what may have been a slower year in 2020 with some favorable tax rules.  Which of these options can you take advantage of this year? Delay tax payments Business owners who had a down…

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