Defensive investment strategies have a goal in common — to help a portfolio better weather an economic downturn and/or bouts of market volatility. But there are some key differences in the details, including the specific criteria by which particular stocks are selected. If you are nearing retirement or just have a more conservative risk tolerance, […]
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Are You Prepared for the High Cost of Dying?
End-of-life care and the death of a loved one not only carry an emotional price tag but they might impose a substantial financial strain on families, compounding the emotional challenges that come with losing a loved one. Considering the true costs and unexpected fees can help illustrate why it is important to plan ahead for […]
What Happens to Your Time Horizon at Retirement?
In investing, “time horizon” refers to the amount of time you have to pursue a financial goal. Along with that goal and your tolerance for risk, your time horizon is one of three key factors that typically help determine the mix of investments in your portfolio. In your early retirement saving years, your time horizon […]
Market Strategies: Three Ways to Play Defense in Your Stock Portfolio
Defensive investment strategies have a goal in common — to help a portfolio better weather an economic downturn and/or bouts of market volatility. But there are some key differences in the details, including the specific criteria by which particular stocks are selected. If you are nearing retirement or just have a more conservative risk tolerance, […]
Navigating Medicare Open Enrollment
If you have Medicare coverage, the Medicare Open Enrollment period is a good time to review your options, compare costs, and make sure that your current Medicare coverage meets your needs. When is Medicare Open Enrollment? Open Enrollment runs from October 15 through December 7 of each year. During this window, anyone with Medicare can make […]
FAFSA for 2026-2027 School Year Opens on October 1
After opening late the last two years, the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) for the 2026-2027 school year is back on track to open on the usual start date of October 1. Last year, in addition to the FAFSA opening late in December, families faced government processing delays that resulted in late financial […]
Unpacking the Real Limits on Unlimited PTO
About 7% of U.S. companies offered unlimited paid time off (PTO) as an employee benefit in 2024, up from just 1% in 2014.1 When companies adopt unlimited PTO policies, there is no specific cap on the number of paid vacation and/or sick days employees can take, although requests for time off are typically subject to a […]
Three Ways to Help Build Financial Resilience
Roller-coaster markets, global events, and unexpected life changes can catch you off guard. Little wonder that you might worry about the potential effects on your financial well-being. Fortunately, you can take steps to build the resilience you need to help handle challenging times and hopefully emerge even stronger. Fortify your foundation Developing a new budget […]
Could Employee Ownership Be Part of Your Succession Plan?
An employee stock ownership plan (ESOP) is a type of qualified retirement plan that enables a business owner to gradually transfer ownership shares to employees. Moreover, establishing an ESOP sets up opportunities for the owner of a closely held business to cash out (in whole or in part) in the future, while keeping the company […]
Life Insurance Might Help During Turbulent Economic Times
During times of economic uncertainty and when the stock market is volatile, life insurance may be a useful tool to consider. Income protection Finances that were intended to provide support for you and your family could take a hit due to stock market volatility. In addition, rising costs of goods and services might eat into […]
