Investing
Rising Interest Rates: What Investors Need to Know
The low interest rate environment we’ve enjoyed since the Federal Reserve’s last rate increase in 2018 will begin to shift in 2022. On March 16, the Fed increased rates by 25 basis points (0.25 percent), bringing it to .50 percent. While the Fed is forecasting seven rate hikes this year, some pundits still believe we will only see four or five, depending on future inflation readings. What does this mean for you and your investments?
Investment Basics
Investments are not just for the wealthy. Whether you’re in your first job, your prime earning years, or nearing retirement, it’s never too late – or too early – to use personal investments as a savings vehicle for your future. There are several types of accounts for this purpose and a multitude of funds to invest in.
4 Steps to Prepare Your Financial Plan for Economic Uncertainty
2020 was a year unlike any other, dashing expectations we had for our personal lives, politics and the economy. Look back one year ago at the economic outlooks and forecasts, and you’ll see predictions that were comically out of date before the end of the first quarter. Yet we forge ahead now with a look at what to expect for 2021 and, more importantly, how people can prepare for the unpredictable nature of the world today.
When Your Child has Special Needs, You Need Exceptional Financial Planning
Parents do everything in their power to ensure a good life for their children. But some children with disabilities may never become fully independent. How can families plan for a future that’s often uncertain? It can seem insurmountable, but with the right approach and the right kind of help, they can put the pieces in place to prepare for the rest of their child's life.
Health & Benefit: How much should I put in my HSA?
For many people, fall is the time for selecting health insurance benefits for the following calendar year. If you have selected a high deductible health plan (HDHP) that qualifies for a health savings account (HSA), you might be wondering, “How much should I put in my health savings account?” Our partner for Pinnacle’s new Health & Benefits offerings, WEX, Inc., offers some tips. The short answer is that you should contribute the maximum prorated amount allowed by the IRS, if that’s financially viable for you.
Donor Advised Funds: How Anyone Can Set Up Their Own Charitable Private Foundation
We all want to do more to support our communities and favorite nonprofits, but most of us aren’t wealthy enough to start a private foundation. Or are we? Take a look at this easy, affordable solution for an on-going fund that solidifies your legacy of giving.
What Affluent Families Need to Know about 529 Plans for College Savings
Even for families with the means to pay for tuition outright, college savings plans can carry major advantages. 529 savings plans are designed to be flexible and can be long-lasting, which brings specific benefits for affluent families. Here are some lesser-known ways to use a 529 plan to fund education expenses.
Could you be more diversified? Alternative investments may improve your portfolio.
Many investors could improve their portfolios through alternative investments - anything that's not a stock, bond or cash. Let’s take a look at two of the alternative options we typically explore with clients.
Legacy or lifestyle: What do you want to do with your wealth?
You have money, and it’s socked away in various investments and accounts. So what’s the end game? What is all this money for, and are you teed up to achieve that ultimate goal?
