DOWNLOAD THE PDF I look forward to writing this market update to share with our clients and our friends what we saw in the market over the past three months and what we see looking forward to the first quarter and the year 2025. I can’t believe another year has come and gone, but 2025, here we come! Please use the links below to navigate to the sections most helpful
The 4th quarter of 2024 saw a mixed performance: the US Stock Market grew at 2.63% followed by the Global Bond Market (ex-US) at 0.74%. The other markets fell, with Global Real Estate experiencing the steepest drop at -9.02%, followed by Emerging Market Stocks (-8.01%), International Developed Stocks (-7.43%), and US Bonds (-3.06%). The good news is all these markets, excluding the US Bond market (5-year), have shown growth over
For self-employed individuals and small business owners, choosing the right retirement plan is a critical decision. Two popular options—the Solo 401(k) and the SEP IRA—offer unique advantages but serve slightly different purposes. This article explores their similarities and differences, highlighting why the Solo 401(k) may be the superior choice for most. Understanding Solo 401(k)s A Solo 401(k), also known as an Individual 401(k), is a retirement savings plan designed specifically
Should You Choose a 15-Year or 30-Year Mortgage? When buying a home, one of the most critical financial decisions you’ll face is choosing between a 15-year and a 30-year mortgage. This choice not only determines your monthly payment but also impacts the total interest you’ll pay over the life of the loan. Historically, 15-year mortgages have offered lower interest rates, averaging 0.55% less than 30-year mortgages over the past 30
Why Most People Fail at Setting New Year’s Financial Goals (and How to Succeed) Every year, millions of people set ambitious financial goals for the New Year. They vow to save more, spend less, pay off debt, or finally start investing for the future. But as the months roll by, many find themselves stuck in the same patterns, wondering why their resolutions fell apart. The truth is, the biggest reason
As wealth management strategies evolve, one financial tool has remained a key consideration for high-income earners: the Backdoor Roth IRA. This strategy allows individuals who exceed the income limits for Roth IRA contributions to still take advantage of the tax benefits that Roth accounts offer. But how does it work, who is it best suited for, and how can you implement it? In this post, we’ll break down the Backdoor
There is a quote that has largely defined my life. When I have a choice to make – it helps me decide. My dad used to say to me, “Anyone can be an example. Choose to be a GOOD ONE.” It was important to him and my mom that I was a force for good for those around me, just as they were. This quote would pop up in my
DOWNLOAD THE PDF Each quarter, I look forward to writing this market update to share with our clients and our friends what we saw in the market over the past three months and what we see looking forward. It feels like time is in fast forward as the quarter end seems to come faster and faster each year. Warren Buffett has been known to say, “The stock market is a
The 3rd quarter of 2024 saw a strong performance with all Stock and Bond Markets across the world were up with Global Real Estate leading the way at 16.04%, followed by Emerging Market Stocks at 8.72%, International Developed Market Stocks at 7.76%, US Stock Market at 6.23%, US Bond Market at 5.20% and finally Global Bond Market ex US at 3.48%. Even better news is that all these markets have
As an entrepreneur or a high-achieving sales leader, you likely wear many hats. You’re responsible for growing your business, closing deals, managing people, and ensuring that your company continues to move forward. Amid these many responsibilities, it’s easy to push aside your personal financial management. While taking control of your finances may seem like an admirable goal, the reality is that managing your wealth without professional help can lead to