Unrealized Loss and Gain
What they are; why they matter. For many investors, it can be tempting to think of one's portfolio in terms of “gains” or “losses.” True, this is a central concept to understanding market behavior, but
Diversification, Patience, and Consistency
Three important factors when it comes to your financial life. Regardless of how the markets may perform, consider making the following part of your investment philosophy: Diversification. The saying “don’t put all your eggs in
Preparing to Sell Your Business
What is your exit strategy? Your company is ripe for sale. Now what? These days, your children or employees may not necessarily want to take over your business, but you still want to sell
Taking Charge of Your Financial Life
Delegating responsibilities to others may lead to problems down the road. When you are putting together a household, it isn’t unusual to delegate responsibilities. One spouse or partner may take on the laundry, while another
Ten Years, Tremendous Gains
A look at where stocks were in 2009 and how they have performed since. Where were you on March 9, 2009? Do you remember the headwinds hitting Wall Street then? When the closing bell rang
Are You Retiring Within the Next 5 Years?
What should you focus on as the transition approaches? You can prepare for your retirement transition years before it occurs. In doing so, you can do your best to avoid the kind of financial surprises
Three Key Questions to Answer Before Taking Social Security
When to start? Should I continue to work? How can I maximize my benefit? Social Security will be a critical component of your financial strategy in retirement, so before you begin taking it, you should
Taking a Loan from Your Retirement Plan = Bad Idea
Why you should refrain from making this move. Thinking about borrowing money from your 401(k), 403(b), or 457 account? Think twice about that because these loans are not only risky, but injurious, to your retirement
Starting a Roth IRA for a Child or Grandchild
This early financial decision could prove profoundly positive over time. Do you have a child or grandchild earning some income? Indirectly, that after-school or summer job might present a savings opportunity for that teenager. You
Is Generation X Preparing Adequately for Retirement?
Future financial needs may be underestimated. If you were born during 1965-80, you belong to “Generation X.” Ten or twenty years ago, you may have thought of retirement as an event in the lives of