Blog
What’s on our mind? You can read about it in our blog. Here you will learn about investment concepts, asset protection strategies and approaches to reducing your tax bill. But we are not all work and no play. You can also come here to find out what’s happening in each of our families and where our travels have taken us. Yes, our Blog is both educational and fun!
Harry Markowitz, Nobel-Winning Pioneer of Modern Portfolio Theory, Dies at 95
Harry Markowitz, Nobel-Winning Pioneer of Modern Portfolio Theory, Dies at 95
Read MoreDoes Higher Inflation Hurt Stock Market Performance?
View a short video to find out if Higher Inflation Hurts Stock Market Performance
Read MoreWHAT CAN INVESTORS LEARN FROM THE BANKS?
Did you lose money in Silicone Valley, Signature or First Republic Bank? No, no one lost money in those banks thanks to FDIC insurance. Yet, everyday on the news you hear about investors worried about those banks' stock performance.
Read MoreREAL ESTATE MARKET UPDATE
The current state of the real estate market is one of low inventory and higher mortgage rates than we have seen over the past several years. This has made buying a home more challenging for many individuals and families. However,...
Read MoreNAVIGATING THE FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS OF DIVORCE
Divorce is a difficult and emotional process that affects many people. As a financial planner, I highly recommend seeking the help of multiple professionals, including attorneys and accountants, in order to make informed decisions and...
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RATE HIKES ARE RARELY GOOD NEWS, BUT THIS ONE MIGHT BE
The Federal Reserve raised interest rates by a quarter point at its recent meeting, its 8th hike in a row and smallest since last March. The drop in inflation allowed for slower tightening. Powell admits more rate hikes to come...
Read MoreGRIEF WORKS: WHEN A SPOUSE DIES
Whether it’s sudden and unexpected or after an already lengthy ordeal, there’s nothing that can prepare you for the death of your spouse. Grief and mourning affect each of us uniquely, but all widows and widowers share a painful dilemma...
Read More2022 MARKET UPDATE: RESEARCH BRIEF
After a strong global rebound following the market downturn associated with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, both stock and bond markets have been incredibly volatile in 2022. This Research Brief reviews the factors that have impacted...
Read MoreTURNING LEMONS INTO LEMONADE--5 STRATEGIES YOU NEED IN TODAY'S INVESTMENT MARKET
Today’s investment marketplace has been bitter for many investors. Yet, in the heart of other’s despair lies the sweet taste of opportunity.
Read More7 TIPS TO CONTROL IDENTITY THEFT
Take note of these 7 steps to help protect yourself from identity theft. Given heightened geopolitical tensions, the risk of cyber-attacks and identity theft are becoming even more pervasive.
Read MoreFOUR WAYS TO IMPROVE THE PROBABILITY OF A GOOD RETIREMENT
Ever wonder how you can improve your probability of a good retirement? Below is an article written by Robert C. Merton, PhD, Nobel Laureate and Resident Scientist at Dimensional Holdings Inc.:
Read MoreSTUDENT LOAN FLOWCHART
One of the most popular slides in our recent webinar that we got a lot of positive feedback on, was this student loan flowchart. It shows the general path that you should consider depending on your loan type, employment status, and debt...
Read MoreSECTION 529 SAVINGS PLAN
With the birth of my twins last month (picture shown) it was time to follow the same advice we give our clients. My wife and I immediately started looking into 529 savings plans. Here are some tips when researching plans for your children:
Read More2021 CHARITABLE GIVING TOOLKIT
Our values tend to guide many of our financial decisions, including our charitable giving goals, so it’s natural to incorporate both into a holistic plan. And with the giving season upon us, now is an excellent time to review the...
Read MoreHOME SWEET HOME
Looking at Planning Opportunities in Today's Housing Market Shelter, a general necessity of life, has yielded impressive gains over the recent past. Home prices in major metropolitan areas are up an average of 18.6% over the 12 months...
Read MoreINVESTOR LETTER - JULY 2021
If you’re like most of us, it’s hard to not keep an eye on how the U.S. economy is recovering from everything that’s happened since the start of 2020. However, it’s also easy to fixate on the gloomier economic...
Read MoreINVESTOR LETTER - JUNE 2021
Stock market indexes continue to set new record highs, but investors are increasingly focused on another number: inflation. Although the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported a 4.2% annual increase in inflation in April & a 4.9%...
Read MoreINVESTOR LETTER - MAY 2021
Concerns about market downturns certainly come as no surprise. After all, steep corrections and crashes can be alarming for even the most steely and disciplined investors. So, when markets reach all-time highs, investors tend to be...
Read MoreINVESTOR LETTER - APRIL 2021
March Madness predictions are not that different from investing when you think about it. We would all love to pick out which investments will fare the best over the coming period but it's just as hard as picking a perfect bracket...
Read MoreThe Next Normal
The following is excerpted from an article written by David Booth, Founder and Executive Chairman of Dimensional Fund Advisors. His words rang true to me and I thought I’d share those with you: A year ago, at the end of March...
Read MoreCRYPTOCURRENCY - FAQ
We have received many questions about cryptocurrency. Here are the most frequently asked questions to help you understand what they are, how they can be used, and the risks involved.
Read MoreINVESTOR LETTER - MARCH 2021
Tulips were first imported from Turkey to Western Europe in the late 1500s. The unique, exotic look of these flowers soon captured the attention of the upper classes and quickly appeared in the gardens of affluent Dutch aristocrats....
Read MoreINVESTOR LETTER - FEBRUARY 2021
In 1984, 33-year-old Gary Kusin started an educational software retailer named Babbage’s. Started in Dallas, Texas, Babbage’s quickly expanded from educational software to focusing on Atari and Nintendo video games. Little...
Read MoreQUARTERLY PERSPECTIVES Q4 2020
Our new Quarterly Perspectives for the fourth quarter of 2020 is now up on YouTube! Please click this link to view it on our YouTube Page. While you're there be sure to like and subscribe!
Read MoreINVESTOR LETTER - JANUARY 2021
A Taoist story tells of an old man who accidentally fell into the river rapids leading to a high and dangerous waterfall. Onlookers feared for his life. Miraculously, he came out alive and unharmed downstream at the bottom of the falls...
Read MoreCONSOLIDATED APPROPRIATIONS ACT OF 2021
With the news that a new COVID-19 relief bill has passed, it remains our goal to bring guidance to yield clarity out of the complexity. Jeffrey Levine, CPA/PFS, CFP®, Director of Advanced Planning, Buckingham Strategic Partners,...
Read More4 TIPS TO REGAIN YOUR RETIREMENT SAVINGS FOCUS IN 2021
As the new year approaches it is important to prioritize your retirement savings goals. In the beginning of 2020, a survey from the Employee Benefit Research Institute found 61% of U.S. workers said that retirement planning makes them...
Read MoreINVESTOR LETTER - DECEMBER 2020
Can you think of a crazier year than 2020? The beginning of this new decade has injected a substantial amount of uncertainty about what the future holds and how we can best navigate it, and financial markets have been quick to price,...
Read MoreINVESTOR LETTER - NOVEMBER 2020
This year isn’t the first time Election Day has come and gone without a confirmed winner. Think back to the “hanging chad” in Florida that caused a weeks-long examination of the results in that presidential race. Of...
Read MoreINVESTOR LETTER - OCTOBER 2020
We have become used to planning around low interest rates, both this year and during the last decade. And we might not see rates increase for the foreseeable future after Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell announced a significant...
Read MoreINVESTOR LETTER - SEPTEMBER 2020
In recent years, U.S. stocks have outperformed international stocks and growth stocks have outperformed value stocks. This has led many to question the benefits of diversification and ask what they should do when an investment strategy...
Read MoreINVESTOR LETTER - AUGUST 2020
"I don’t know...something just doesn’t feel right,” you mumble through your mask to your primary care doctor while sitting on the examination table under a flickering fluorescent light in a room decorated with...
Read MoreQUARTERLY PERSPECTIVES Q2 2020
Please watch our newly released Q2 Quarterly Perspectives video on Youtube by clicking here. We review the positive performance of both stocks and bonds during this past quarter. Take an look into this year's level of government...
Read MoreINVESTOR LETTER - JULY 2020
“Patience is bitter, but its fruit is sweet” were words most famously spoken by the ancient Greek philosopher Aristotle. The wisdom in this adage can be applied to so many aspects of life, including investing. The current...
Read MoreINVESTOR LETTER - MAY 2020
It has been said that one of the most difficult feats in all of sports is hitting a Major League curveball. Yet many pro baseball players have successfully made a name for themselves by doing just that, although you probably cannot...
Read MoreQUARTERLY PERSPECTIVES Q1 2020
The new release of our quarterly perspectives presentation is now up on our Youtube. Click here to watch!
Read MoreINVESTOR LETTER - APRIL 2020
You might be reading this hunkered down in your basement, taking inventory of your supplies, or watching a DIY facemask tutorial on YouTube. If so, you’re like all of us navigating a fog of uncertainty that, so far, has left more...
Read MoreJUSTIN RICE FEATURED IN FINANCIAL ADVISOR MAGAZINE
Justin Rice was just recognized in Financial Advisor magazine for the insight he provided at a recent conference of fellow advisors. Justin led the group through a discussion of how important it is for Financial Advisors to be aware of...
Read MorePAYCHECK PROTECTION PROGRAM AND ECONOMIC INJURY DISASTER LOANS
Below is an email that we sent out to our clients this afternoon. Due to the importance of the subject matter we are also posting here on the web for whoever needs this information. Please contact our office for the documents reference...
Read MoreCARES ACT PROVIDES RELIEF TO INDIVIDUALS AND BUSINESSES
CARES Act Provides Relief to Individuals and Businesses On Friday, March 27, 2020, the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act was signed into law. This $2 trillion emergency relief package is intended to assist...
Read MoreTHE CYCLE OF MARKET EMOTIONS
Although today finished on an uptick, these past few weeks have been a wild ride in the investment world, as fear surrounding the COVID-19 virus continues to swirl. Last week stock prices seesawed but ended the week further down. Oil...
Read MoreINSIGHTS FROM PERSONAL WEALTH STRATEGIES
The last few weeks have produced record volatility in the investment marketplace. It seems one day the Dow Jones Industrial Average is down 2,000 points, the next day it is up 1,000. Bond prices continue to climb, with the benchmark 10...
Read MoreSAFEGUARDING YOU AND YOUR MONEY
The investment markets have certainly been on a wild ride the past couple of weeks. We appreciate the trust you have placed in Personal Wealth Strategies, and want to take this opportunity to make you aware of the steps we have taken...
Read MoreMARKET UPDATE
During the past week and a half headlines have screamed with the news of the equity markets significant declines in large part due to concerns related to the coronavirus. Less attention-grabbing, but equally important is the dramatic...
Read MoreINVESTOR LETTER - FEBRUARY 2020
The novel coronavirus seems to be on everyone’s minds. As the number of infected people continues to grow, so might some of our anxiety about the spread and potential impact of the virus. While we don’t know how many people...
Read MoreVIDEO: Q4 2019 Quarterly Perspectives
In this Quarterly Perspective, we discuss recent asset class returns and how are factors weightings have performed. Then we take a look at recent market and economic headlines, reflecting on the bull market we've experienced over the...
Read MoreINVESTOR LETTER - JANUARY 2020
As we start the 2020s, we thought it would be interesting to look back at the major themes that defined the 2010s. We’ll skip the geopolitical factors, the rise of social media and the evolution of smartphones to focus on...
Read MoreINVESTOR LETTER - DECEMBER 2019
We recently had a conversation with a potential client about our investment philosophy and why we invest the way we do. It was great to hear this person’s questions because most individual investors don’t have an investment...
Read MoreVIDEO: Q3 2019 QUARTERLY PERSPECTIVES
Please check out our recent YouTube video release of our presentation discussing the 3rd quarter in 2019. In this quarter, investors had to digest a slowdown in multiple key economies and economic activity measures, central banks like...
Read MoreINVESTOR LETTER - OCTOBER 2019
Good things come to those who wait. It is an expression that is used at both the most auspicious and inauspicious times. Consider, for example, a job promotion. You’d likely say the expression after you’ve worked hard,...
Read MorePREPARATION IS KEY
“Give me six hours to chop down a tree and I will spend the first four sharpening the axe.” ― Abraham Lincoln In nearly every venture, preparation is key. Financial planning is no different. Of course, there is no way to...
Read MoreINVESTOR LETTER - SEPTEMBER 2019
Benjamin Franklin is credited with saying, “If you fail to plan, you are planning to fail.” We take these words to heart, and they are a core reason why we spend a great deal of time helping our clients develop and...
Read MoreINVESTOR LETTER - AUGUST 2019
We hope you are enjoying the warm summer months, and we hope you have been able to spend some time with friends and family. While summer is normally a quiet time of year for news, recently there have been a large number of developments...
Read MoreWELL IT'S HAPPENED AGAIN
There is an old proverb that says "Crime never sleeps." Last week it was reported that Equifax had reached a settlement with the federal government regarding their data breach and the subsequent mishandling of the necessary reporting...
Read MoreJULY SAVVY CYBERSECURITY NOTES
In this issue: Hack-Proof: A two-factor authentication guide Cybersecurity shorts Software updates Hack-Proof: A two-factor authentication guide Two-factor authentication has gone from new technology to a widely used tool implemented...
Read MoreTAX PLANNING IN THE SUMMER?
Summer is an excellent time to do an assessment of your tax plan for the current year. Last year many people were thrown by the new tax laws implemented in the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 (TCJA). Starting back in February,...
Read MoreINVESTOR LETTER - JULY 2019
With so many ups and downs in the stock market over the past few quarters, investors may be tempted to try to predict the stock market to avoid declines and benefit from the gains. Yet there is already a group of professional...
Read MoreINVESTOR LETTER - JUNE 2019
Trade negotiations have been front and center for months. Discussions with China seemed to have stalled, prompting the U.S. to increase tariffs on certain imported goods in early May. Additionally, we’ve seen tariffs used as...
Read MoreWHAT DOES A POLITICIAN DO WHEN THEY HAVE MORE IDEAS THAN MONEY? IMPOSE A NEW TAX!
Despite being one of the highest taxed states in the country, California’s State Senate recently passed a bill to add a new tax on its residents--a gift, estate and generation-skipping tax. Effective January 1, 2021, SB 378 would...
Read MoreTHERE'S INSURANCE FOR THAT?
As financial planners, we want to be sure our clients have the proper insurance in place. However, there are many obscure policies created by insurance companies over the years. Let's take a look at some of the most interesting...
Read MoreJUNE SAVVY CYBERSECURITY NOTES
In this issue: "Wormable" Microsoft Flaw: What you need to do Cybersecurity Shorts Software updates "Wormable" Microsoft Flaw: What you need to do Microsoft has announced a major security flaw in its Windows software that rivals the...
Read MorePlanning a Vacation - Pack Light
TRAVEL, WITHOUT THE BAGGAGE Air travel is stressful. While some stress may be unavoidable, like the long lines at security, other sources of stress, like dealing with luggage check-in and baggage claim, can be reduced. If you think...
Read MoreFINANCIAL ADVICE FOR RECENT COLLEGE GRADUATES
You've put in the hard work as a college student and finally received your diploma. Now you're ready to head out on your own. And though you may not have given much thought to your financial future when you were in college, you have...
Read MoreINVESTOR LETTER - MAY 2019
Let markets work for us. That is one of our key investment beliefs, and it’s a simple, yet powerful, idea. In fact, we felt that it would be beneficial to dive a little deeper into what that means, how it is still relevant...
Read MoreWARNING: THE SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION IS NOT CALLING YOU
The Federal Trade Commission is warning the public of a new phone scam. In this call the victim is informed that someone is using their name and Social Security number to send thousands of dollars to Mexico and Colombia. The victims...
Read MoreTHE FUTURE OF SOCIAL SECURITY AND MEDICARE: HERE'S WHAT TRUSTEES ARE PROJECTING
The newest reports, released on April 22, 2019, discuss the current financial condition and ongoing financial challenges that both programs face, and project a Social Security cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for 2020.
Read MoreMAY SAVVY CYBERSECURITY NOTES
In this issue: As always, we saw many cybersecurity happenings this month including breaches at Microsoft, Toyota and Facebook. Read on to learn more about those as well as: Why you need to update your Verizon Fios router now A new...
Read MoreLEGACIES HAVE AN ADVANTAGE IN COLLEGE ADMISSIONS
Headlines were recently made by a college admissions scandal that included some big-name celebrities. The salacious details were plastered across newspapers nationwide and included bribery and athletic coaches from schools including...
Read MoreTHE WORST CORPORATE CYBER HACKS OF ALL TIME
Every year more and more people's personal data is accessed illegally by hackers. While some hacks are very large and make national headlines, e.g. Equifax 148M records (2017), Marriott International 383M (2014) and the mother of all...
Read MoreINVESTOR LETTER - APRIL 2019
We talk a lot about our investment philosophy and process being evidence-based—meaning we spend a good deal of time researching and partnering with firms that help us implement the most practical academic and industry research we...
Read More10 Things Your Mom Never Told You
10 Things Your Mom Never Told You She cried when she found out she was pregnant. She cried as she gave birth to you. She cried when she first held you. She cried with happiness. She cried with fear. She cried with worry. She cried...
Read MoreIRAs--KNOW YOUR RULES
With April 15th around the corner Personal Wealth Strategies receives many calls and emails with questions surrounding Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs). Here are some rules of which you may not be aware. The Maximum Contribution...
Read MoreSECTION 529 PLANS - Q&A
Year over year, participation in 529 plans continues to rise. Assets in 529 plans reached $333 billion as of September 2018 — $310 billion (93%) in college savings plans and $23 billion (7%) in prepaid tuition plans.1 Anyone can...
Read MoreHappy National Employee Benefits Day!
EVERY YEAR NATIONAL EMPLOYEE BENEFITS DAY IS CELEBRATED ON APRIL 2—THIS IS A DAY TO HONOR YOU! Plan administrators and employers are crucial in providing quality benefits and play an important role in their employees’...
Read MoreAPRIL SAVVY CYBERSECURITY NOTES
In this issue: What you need to know about the Apple FaceTime flaw Savvy Cybersecurity quick links Cybersecurity shorts Software updates What you need to know about the Apple FaceTime flaw A 14-year-old discovered a major flaw in...
Read MoreINVESTOR LETTER - MARCH 2019
Global stocks spent most of the first two months of the year heading up. While the noise that caused last year’s dip is now behind us, we’re sure that some other headline will bubble up at some point and we’ll have...
Read MoreHIDDEN GEM: HSAs IN RETIREMENT
When saving for retirement, you're probably aware of the benefits of using tax-preferred accounts such as 401(k)s and IRAs. But you may not be aware of another type of tax-preferred account that may prove very useful, not only during...
Read MoreLETTER TO CLIENTS - FEBRUARY 2019
Heavyweight boxer Mike Tyson famously said, “Everyone has a plan until they are punched in the mouth.” While he wasn’t talking about investing, we can easily apply it to that topic as global stock markets surely...
Read MoreWOULD YOU RATHER INVEST IN ADMIRED OR DESPISED COMPANIES?
Given the choice of 2 companies, one admired by the public and one despised, where should you invest your money? The answer may not be obvious. A recent Opinion Piece on www.marketwatch.com by Mark Hulbert reminded me of a White Paper...
Read MoreNational Health Observance Month
Did you know that Heart Disease is the NUMBER ONE killer in the world today. United Healthcare has put together this very informative article discussing the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle as well as a healthy heart.
Read MoreIRS OPERATIONS DURING A (PARTIAL) GOVERNMENT SHUTDOWN
The IRS has reopened after a partial government shutdown that lasted more than a month. However, if a new agreement is not reached between Congress and the President it is possible the federal government could have another partial...
Read MoreDOES YOUR HOLIDAY GIFT REQUIRE A CONNECTION TO THE INTERNET? STOP AND READ ON!
Did you receive a gadget this holiday season that requires a connection to the internet? More than ever TVs, Phones, Thermostats, Security Systems, etc. are connected to the internet. Be cautious when making these connections, as your...
Read MoreRICHEST MAN IN BABYLON
In good times and bad, consistently saving a percentage of your income is a sound financial practice.
Read MoreDECEMBER SAVVY CYBERSECURITY NOTES
In this issue: Your retirement account: the latest goldmine for scammers Savvy Cybersecurity quick links Emerging threat: USPS Informed Delivery Cybersecurity shorts Software updates Your retirement account: the latest goldmine for...
Read MoreHOLIDAYS ARE APPROACHING
It's that time of year again that I ask you to take some time to spread some holiday joy to your community and help someone in need so they can enjoy the holiday this year too. There are so many charitable organizations, food pantries,...
Read More10 TIPS FOR NEWLY MARRIED COUPLES
Being in my mid-20s, it is becoming more and more common to see people become engaged or soon to host a wedding. It typically becomes a topic in my friends’ circle of how to handle finances as we learn to become a family unit...
Read MoreDID YOU TRACK YOUR MONEY IN 2018?
If you don't know what happened to your money during the past year, it's time to find out. December and January are the perfect months to look back at what you earned, saved, and spent, as W-2s, account statements, and other year-end...
Read MoreWHAT TO DO ABOUT THE MARRIOTT CYBERSECURITY BREACH
Hotel chain Marriott announced a massive data breach last week affecting 500 million hotel guests. The breach affects customers who made reservations at Marriott or Starwood properties between 2014 and September 2018, during which time...
Read MoreHISTORY OF BLACK FRIDAY
Today isn’t just another day of deals, it’s the biggest buying holiday in the United States! It is considered the kickoff of the holiday shopping season. Retailers open early for those shoppers eager to get a jump on...
Read MoreCOMMENTS ON RECENT MARKET VOLATILITY
U.S. stocks have been rising ever since the Great Recession ended. Along the way, there have been multiple times when companies have suffered bouts of decreased prices. We just experienced one of those bouts of volatility in October...
Read MoreNOVEMBER SAVVY CYBERSECURITY NOTES
In this issue: The latest Facebook hack: What you need to know and do Savvy Cybersecurity quick links Emerging threat: Voice phishing scams Software updates The latest Facebook hack: What you need to know and do Thirty million Facebook...
Read MoreINCREASED RETIREMENT CONTRIBUTION LIMITS FOR 2019
The IRS has just released new limits for retirement plan contributions in 2019. For employees who participate in 401(k), 403(b), most 457 plans, and the federal government's Thrift Savings Plan the limit has increased to $19,000 (up...
Read MoreNEW LAW ALLOWS PARENTS TO FREEZE THEIR CHILD'S CREDIT REPORT
Every year 500,000 children suffer from identity theft. Why? Their clean records are attractive to thieves looking to open new accounts without any issues, and the theft can go unnoticed for years as parents and guardians often don't...
Read MoreBEAR IN THE WOODS: EMERGING MARKETS CREDIT CRISIS
On September 6, 2018, the MSCI Emerging Markets (EM) Index — which tracks stocks in 24 of the world's largest developing economies — dropped 20% below its January high, a level of decline that is commonly considered a bear...
Read MoreOCTOBER SAVVY CYBERSECURITY NOTES
In this issue: Three things to do during National Cybersecurity Awareness Month Cybersecurity shorts Software updates Three things to do during National Cybersecurity Awareness Month Did you know that October is National Cybersecurity...
Read MoreMEDICARE OPEN ENROLLMENT BEGINS OCTOBER 15
What is the Medicare Open Enrollment Period? The Medicare Open Enrollment Period is the time during which people with Medicare can make new choices and pick plans that work best for them. Each year, Medicare plan costs and coverage...
Read More5 THINGS YOU MUST DO BEFORE YOU RETIRE
5 Things you must do before you retire……. by Maurie Backman for the Motley Fool @CNNMoney September 2018: If you're looking forward to retirement, you're not alone. Countless workers dream of leaving their jobs behind and...
Read MoreFREE MEDICAL SCHOOL!
We work with a significant number of physicians here at Personal Wealth Strategies. One of the road blocks we come across in our planning, especially with residents and new physicians, is their student loan debt. This problem has been...
Read MoreCAN YOU PAY YOUR PROPERTY TAXES AS A DONATION?
Earlier this year, New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo became the first governor to sign off on new legislation that would allow municipalities to establish charitable funds where tax payers can donate in return for a property tax credit....
Read MoreWHEN YOU DIE WHO WILL GET YOUR AIRLINE MILES?
A recent article in Investment News asked Financial Planners to consider when a client dies who will get their airline miles? Who will control their Facebook page or social media accounts? What about their on-line access to bank...
Read MoreWHAT CAN WE LEARN FROM THE INVESTMENTS OF THE SUPER-RICH?
About a year ago, David Bailin (no relation) took over as the Global Head of Investments at Citi Private Bank. The private bank serves clients with accounts of $25 million or more. At that time he decided to determine if there was any...
Read MoreAugust is National Eye Health & Safety Month
August is National Eye Health & Safety Month - Sight is one of the most important 5 senses a person has. Even though there is still approximately a month or so left of the summer, UV rays can be quite harmful to your eyes...
Read MoreAUGUST SAVVY CYBERSECURITY NOTES
In this issue: Three important cybersecurity actions for every business 1. Emerging threats2. Cybersecurity shorts3. Software updates Three important cybersecurity actions for every business Businesses—big and small—are...
Read MoreTIME MANAGEMENT TIPS THAT WORK
How to Manage Time With 10 Tips That Work Carry a schedule and record all your thoughts Carry a schedule and record all your thoughts, conversations and activities for a week. This will help you understand how much you can get done...
Read MorePRICELESS!!
We all need time to recharge our batteries. There is nothing like a surf trip to El Salvador with my best surf buddy... my daughter, for 5 days of surfing and bonding.... Priceless!!!
Read MoreEDUCATION FIRST, ROOF LATER
Millennials are holding off on buying their first home due to various reasons but primarily due to one goal. A COLLEGE DEGREE! With a college degree comes the financial loads and hectic lifestyle which delays marriage and homebuying...
Read MoreJULY SAVVY CYBERSECURITY NOTES
In this issue: Credit freezes to be free under new law Emerging threat: Select Google IoT devices leaking consumer data Cybersecurity shorts Software updates Credit freezes to be free under new law Security experts have long...
Read MoreBABY BOOMERS VS MILLENNIALS
It’s typically assumed that older workers bring in a heavier salary than younger workers, but to what extent?Based on the “American Community Survey”, year-round employees are classified as either millennials, GenXers...
Read MoreHAPPY INDEPENDENCE DAY!
Happy Independence Day! Today we celebrate the courage of our founding fathers and their dedication towards liberating our country! Being one of the first 13 colonies, New Jersey is enriched with historical sites. Below is a few sites...
Read MoreYOUNG INVESTORS ABANDON MARKET
Our clients and the people who read this blog, know the importance of investing in a globally diversified portfolio of stocks, bonds, and real estate in order to reach their long-term goals. However, according to a recent Gallup Poll...
Read MoreSOLVENCY FOR SOCIAL SECURITY BENEFITS?
According to the recently released report of the Social Security Trustees the benefits for old-age disability insurance will be depleted by 2034. This year for the first time, Social Security went into a negative cash flow. More money...
Read MoreJUNE SAVVY CYBERSECURITY NOTES
In this issue: Child identity theft continues to grow: What to do Emerging threat: Your current credit freeze won't stop this growing fraud Cybersecurity shorts Software updates Child identity theft continues to grow: What to do More...
Read MoreMEDICARE TRUST FUND WILL RUN OUT IN 2026
Reading the above headline should scare you, but apparently those in charge of funding Medicare, i.e. the U.S. Congress, are immune. Earlier this month, the fund’s Trustees reported Medicare’s Hospital Insurance Trust Fund...
Read MoreMAY SAVVY CYBERSECURITY NOTES
In this issue: How to know if your Facebook data was affected by the Cambridge Analytica Leak Emerging threat: New business scam alters EMV-cards Cybersecurity shorts How to know if your Facebook data was affected by the Cambridge...
Read MoreMY LUNCH WITH SENATOR BILL BRADLEY
During a recent conference I attended I was asked to join Senator Bill Bradley for lunch. This was an unanticipated surprise to spend time with a man I have long admired for all that he has accomplished (see my blog post above). During...
Read MoreSENATOR BILL BRADLEY
Today’s post comes to you from 30,000 feet above somewhere in the middle of the United States. I am returning home from an Admired Leadership conference. Perhaps the highlight of the meeting was to listen to Senator Bill Bradley...
Read MoreAPRIL SAVVY CYBERSECURITY NOTES
In this issue: How to protect your Facebook data in light of the Cambridge Analytica scandal Savvy Cybersecurity quick links Software updates How to protect your Facebook data in light of the Cambridge Analytica scandal Over 50 million...
Read MoreLife starts at 70...
My client zip lining through life! "So this is 70. I would do it again in a heartbeat." Lillian
Read MoreWHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT MEMORIAL DAY
Memorial Day is perhaps the most solemn of our national holidays. Each year we pause to remember those men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice, fighting for our freedoms. Today while you are enjoying your day off from work,...
Read MoreDonor Advised Funds
An idea for Charitable giving and getting a tax deduction for under the new tax laws. Click on Link below for more information
Read MoreWARNING: RESET YOUR TWITTER CREDENTIALS
Today, Twitter announced that a glitch caused some user passwords to be stored in a readable, clear text on its internal computer system. According to Twitter, the issue has been resolved and there are no signs of unauthorized access...
Read MoreIT'S TIME TO SALUTE THE MILITARY
Each year since 1999, May has been proclaimed Military Appreciation Month. It's a great time to say "thank you" to military servicemembers and their families, past and present, and to honor those who have died in the service of our...
Read MoreMay is National Stroke Awareness Month
May is National Stroke Awareness Month and the American Heart & Stroke Associations have posted important information regarding early warning signals, stroke prevention, treatments for a stroke, etc. Just knowing the "WARNING SIGNALS"...
Read MoreRISE OF HOME PRICES
Home prices are going up, as the supply of homes for sales have dropped 11.9% this past year! “The median price of a home sold in March surged 8.9 percent compared to March of 2017, according to Redfin, a real estate brokerage....
Read MoreApril is National Autism Awareness Month
April is National Autism Awareness Month According to a 2016 report from The Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, 1 out of every 68 children born in the United States has been diagnosed with varying degrees of Autism. The Autism...
Read MoreWARNING: TAX SEASON IS PRIME FRAUD SEASON
Unfortunately, its not enough to simply file your tax return and be done with the taxing authorities. Due to the massive operation required to file and receive those tax returns, this time of year is ripe with opportunities for...
Read MoreMARCH SAVVY CYBERSECURITY NOTES
In this issue: What you need to know about tax identity theft this tax season Emerging threats Cybersecurity shorts Software updates What you need to know about tax identity theft this tax season Tax identity theft has been a massive...
Read MoreWHERE'S MY INCOME TAX REFUND?
Have you already filed your tax return? Good for you. Would you like to know the status of your refund? Now there is a tool you can use to find out on the IRS’ website to determine the status. The site will ask for your social...
Read MoreIRS RELEASES NEW FORM W-4 AND ONLINE WITHHOLDING CALCULATOR
Under the newly passed Tax Cuts and Jobs Act almost everyone will be paying a different amount in Federal Income Taxes come April 2019. Beginning in February 2018, the taxes withheld from employees’ paychecks were reduced,...
Read MoreMarch is National Nutrition Month
March is National Nutrition Month and the American Heart Association would like to help you live a healthier life. Click on the link below for some important information on how to eat smarter, feel better, and live longer by making a...
Read MoreANOTHER TAKE ON TARIFFS
This week President Trump proposed taxing steel and aluminum imported into the U.S. through the use of a tariff. While tariffs have been used a various times by the U.S. government, they can lead to a declining economic value for all...
Read MoreFEBRUARY SAVVY CYBERSECURITY NOTES
In this issue: What to know about the Spectre and Meltdown vulnerabilities Emerging threats Cybersecurity shorts Software updates What to know about the Spectre and Meltdown vulnerabilities Every year, we face new major cybersecurity...
Read MoreWHEN GOOD NEWS EQUALS BAD STOCK MARKET PERFORMANCE
This has been a wild week for the stock market. On Monday the Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA) suffered its first 1,000-point loss. Only 2 days later on Thursday it suffered its second 1000-point loss. In between those dives the...
Read MoreBulls vs Bears
Market Corrects Are Common, Do Don't Abandon Your Plan
Read MoreTalented pastry chef
A granddaughter of one of my client's, who is a talented pastry chef in Michigan, masterminded this cool gingerbread house over the holidays... I wonder who ate it?
Read MoreJANUARY SAVVY CYBERSECURITY NOTES
In this issue: 3 cybersecurity predictions for 2018 Emerging threats: New scams to look for Cybersecurity shorts: Cybersecurity legislation, an UberEATS hack, Android malware, and much more Software updates 3 Cybersecurity Predictions...
Read MoreDON'T BE CONFUSED BY THE NEW FEDERAL TAX LAW
Confused by the new tax law? Don't be. Here is a excellent article published by Kiplinger which explains many of the laws provisions in simple to understand language. I suggest you read it all the way through as you may find some...
Read MoreHolidays are a time for giving
With the holiday season upon us, I would like to take the time to ask that you please take a few minutes out of your busy schedules to possibly give back to our community and help the people that are less fortunate then we are. I am so...
Read MoreDECEMBER SAVVY CYBERSECURITY NOTES
Read on to learn more about the cybersecurity happenings this month including: o Uber's data breach and cover up o A tip for protecting your bank account o Medicare scams making the rounds o ...and much more
Read MoreWATCH OUT! DON'T FALL FOR THESE HOLIDAY SCAMS
As we enter the holiday season, it’s important to be on the lookout for scams, hacks, and frauds. Here are some typical scams of which to be aware...
Read MoreIS YOUR HOLIDAY BONUS PROGRAM COMPLIANT?
Employers Must Consider Discrimination & Tax Implications With the end of the year fast approaching, many employers are getting ready to hand out holiday bonuses, unaware that these tidings of the season can come wrapped in legal...
Read MoreNOVEMBER SAAVY CYBERSECURITY NOTES
In this issue: The low-down on Kaspersky Equifax updates Emerging threats: KRACK Wi-Fi vulnerability and Apple phishing scheme Cybersecurity shorts: Deloitte cyberattack, the end of Social Security numbers, and more Software updates...
Read MoreFinancial Assessment
Once a year in the fall, we witness the leaves changing to magnificent colors letting us know the season is changing. Some of us take trips to view and experience these changes. Likewise, once a year, we should assess our finances,...
Read More2017 HAS BEEN A WILD RIDE! OR HAS IT?
This year has seen very strong returns in both the domestic and foreign stock markets. Through the end of October 2017, the S&P 500 Index has increased 14.2%, the MSCI EAFE Index (a measure of international stock performance) is up 20...
Read MoreOCTOBER SAVVY CYBERSECURITY NOTES
In this issue: Equifax hack: Facts and myths Emerging threat: BlueBorne vulnerability threatens billions of devices Cybersecurity shorts: LinkedIn phishing scam, Hospital pumps vulnerable to attacks, and much more Software updates...
Read MoreSeptember Savvy Cybersecurity Notes
In this issue: The NEW way to beat the password paradox Emerging threats: New Social Security scam, a warning to healthcare providers, and more Cybersecurity shorts: Rise in business identity theft, spying Roombas, and much more...
Read MoreHurricane Preparedness and Recovery
I’m compelled to write today regarding the terrible damage inflicted on Americans in Texas and Louisiana, and what might come for Florida and parts of the Southeast. The pictures on the nightly news and all over the internet...
Read MoreBe Aware - Show You Care
September is life insurance awareness month. Do YOU have enough life insurance for your family to cover expenses such as funeral costs, financial support, and outstanding debts? Insurance proceeds can also be used as an inheritance for...
Read MoreBulls? Bears? Who Is In Charge of This Zoo?
When you listen to the business news you will often hear the terms “Bull Market” and “Bear Market” bounced around. Did you know there are true definitions as to what constitutes a Bull or a Bear Market? A bull...
Read MoreDOL and IRS Issue Relief for Hurricane Harvey Victims
Estimated Tax Payment, Retirement Plan & COBRA Relief Granted The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) have issued several forms of relief to victims of Hurricane Harvey. Highlights of this relief...
Read MoreWill This be The Longest Bull Market in Recent History?
On October 7, 2007 investors stood in a state of euphoria. The stock market was up 101% since the end of the last bear market in October 2002. Investors could not conceive that they were about to enter a downward spiral worse than any...
Read MoreJuly Savvy Cybersecurity Notes
In this issue: Three ways to beat the password paradox Emerging threat: Verizon PINs leaked Cybersecurity shorts Software updates We hope you have been enjoying your summer so far. Unfortunately, the cybercriminals don't take a...
Read MoreJune Savvy Cybersecurity Notes
In this issue: Three moves to hack-proof your finances Emerging threat: Global ransomware attack, Fireball malware, and North Korean threat Savvy Cybersecurity quick links Cybersecurity shorts: Internet-of-things danger, Kmart breach,...
Read MoreMay Savvy Cybersecurity Notes
In this issue: WannaCry ransomware causes global cyber mayhem Emerging threat: Verizon's cybersecurity predictions Cybersecurity shorts: Google Doc phishing attack, Equifax's weak security practice, personal health records up for grabs...
Read MoreThe Affordable Care Act and Medicaid
Congress and the President are still wrangling over what should become of the Affordable Care Act, and indirectly American’s health care system. Here are some recent statistics related to the Affordable Care Act that may help you...
Read MoreSummer Employment? Don't Pay Too Much to the IRS
If your child has secured a job this summer help them to avoid paying too much to Uncle Sam. Each year many students have taxes withheld from their paychecks that should rightfully be paid to them. We all know how painful it is to see...
Read MoreWhat to Do If You Receive a Letter from the IRS
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) mails millions of pieces of correspondence every year to taxpayers for a variety of reasons. Here are some suggestions on how to best handle a letter or notice from the IRS: Do not panic. Simply...
Read MoreApril Savvy Cybersecurity Notes
In this issue: Your Email Address: The Weak Link in Your Security Savvy Cybersecurity Update: FASFA tool Emerging Threat: Health Savings Account Fraud Cybersecurity shorts: LinkedIn phishing emails, InterContinental hotel breach grows,...
Read MoreLessons from Filing Your 2016 Taxes
Now that the pain of accounting for your taxes is behind you, do you feel like you paid too much in 2016? If so, what can you do to make filing of 2017's return more of a reason to cheer than cry? The time to act is now (well it was...
Read MoreWhere's My Refund?
Are you one of the lucky individuals waiting for the Federal Government to send you a refund check? Curious about the status? Now there is a tool you can use to check on the status of your refund. Simply click on this link to the IRS'...
Read MoreBreakout the Cake! It's Tax Freedom Day 2017!
You have never heard of Tax Freedom Day? It is the day when the nation as a whole has earned enough money to pay its tax bill for the entire year. So all the work you have already put in for 2017 has been required just to pay your...
Read MoreMarch Savvy Cybersecurity Notes
In this issue: CIA's Vault 7 and How to Hack-Proof Your Devices Emerging threats: FASFA tool brought offline after criminal activity, ransomware hitting Macs, and more Cybersecurity shorts: Russians charged in Yahoo breach, 99% of...
Read MoreThe History of the Federal Income Tax
You may have learned in grade school that Federal Income Taxes were established by the 16th Amendment, but their history actually go back much further than that. In the early years of the United States history the federal government...
Read MoreHappy Article 50 Day!
Happy Article 50 Day! While it doesn't have the same cache as America's Declaration of Independence, Great Britain today filed a letter with the European Union beginning the exit process known as "Brexit". Earlier this year British...
Read MoreThe Value of a Financial Advisor
The Capital Group, home of American Funds one of the largest mutual fund families in the United States, writes about the real benefits of working with a Financial Advisor Want a Better Retirement? Use an Advisor. The article cites a...
Read MoreFebruary Savvy Cybersecurity Notes
In this issue: “Cardless ATM” technology leads to major fraud Emerging threats: Netflix and Gmail phishing attacks Cybersecurity shorts: Tax refund delays, the danger of a peace-sign selfie, a WhatsApp scam, and much more...
Read MoreThe Mighty Power Of Small Company Stock
U.S. Small Company stocks had a banner year in 2016. However, the returns can be broken into 2 very distinct periods highlighting how quickly and unpredictably the stock market can move. Prior to the U.S. Presidential Election U.S....
Read MoreSavvy Cybersecurity Newsletter
In this blog post: 3 cybersecurity trends to look for in 2017 One billion more Yahoo accounts hacked in a second incident dating back to 2013 Emerging threats: Netgear routers easily hacked, a spiteful ransomware strain, a scam...
Read MoreSharing the Holiday Joy
The holiday season has finally arrived and not a bit too soon! I for one feel it is time to talk about the good in the world, instead of the bickering that has taken place much of this year. Whether your politics has you leaning left,...
Read MoreDidn't See That Coming
On November 22, 2016, a United States District Court Judge in Texas granted a request by 21 States, the US Chamber of Commerce and several business groups to temporarily block the Department of Labor (DOL) from implementing its changes...
Read MoreYou're Hired President Trump!
After months of contentious debate the country has a new President. While many view President Trump as the answer to their prayers others see his election as the beginning of their nightmare. The stock market futures plunged overnight,...
Read MoreMeet Harry Markowitz
Why did I chose to make the first entry in our new Blog about financial pioneer Harry Markowitz? Perhaps it is because all modern finance begins with Harry and his work. As a child Harry was always interested in mathematics and physics...
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