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U.S. Markets Following a rocky start, stocks finished the second quarter higher as investors remained optimistic the Fed will manage interest rates with inflation trending lower. For the quarter, the Standard & Poor’s 500 Index rose 3.92%, and the Nasdaq Composite picked up 8.26%. By contrast, the Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 1.73%.1 Rocky Start in Q2 Stocks lost ground in April as investors struggled with mixed economic news and mixed signals from the Fed. Fresh Consumer Price Index data

When it comes to information-stealing scams, there’s good news and bad news. The good news is that we are getting scammed less. According to Motley Fool, there were 1.036 million reports of identity theft in 2023, down from 1.107 million in 2022 and 1.4 million in 2021.1 The bad news is that scammers are becoming more sophisticated, so we must stay diligent about protecting our personal information.  In this article, let’s look at some of the most common information-stealing scams

As our parents age, we often find ourselves stepping into new roles. One of the most challenging and sensitive discussions to have is about their finances. While uncomfortable, this conversation is crucial for ensuring their well-being and making informed decisions. Here, we’ll explore why this conversation is important and how you can approach it with empathy and respect. We will also provide tips for a productive dialogue.  Why You Should Talk to Your Parents About Their Finances  Many aging parents

The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) was an amendment to the Internal Revenue Code rolled out in 2018. It had implications for businesses and individuals. However, most TCJA provisions are set to expire at the end of 2025. What does this mean for filers?  Let’s look at the TCJA, how it impacts individuals and businesses, and what to expect when some provisions are sunsetted.  What was the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act?  The TCJA was an amendment that “changed

Summer is just around the corner and for many, that means it’s time to embark on exciting international adventures. Whether you’re planning to explore the historic streets of Europe, relax on tropical beaches in Southeast Asia, or immerse yourself in the vibrant cultures of South America, one thing is for sure: proper preparation is vital to a smooth and stress-free journey.  Here, we’ll walk you through everything you need to consider before jetting off on your next international trip.  Inform

AI has become increasingly popular in recent years, and with the advent of ChatGPT, it seems like it can do almost anything! But can AI help you plan your retirement? The answer is that while AI can be a powerful tool for research, it doesn’t replace the need for a human financial professional who understands your unique goals. Let’s look at how AI can be a helpful tool in some ways and also examine its limitations. Understanding the Limitations of

As the baby boomer generation moves into retirement, society is undergoing a significant transformation. Termed the “Silver Tsunami,” this demographic shift has far-reaching implications for both retirees and the economy as a whole.1 In this blog post, we delve into the latest retirement statistics for the baby boomer generation, exploring the trends, challenges, and opportunities that accompany this seismic demographic change. The Baby Boomer Generation: A Demographic Overview The baby boomer generation, born between 1946 and 1964, represents a substantial

U.S. Markets Stocks posted solid gains in the first quarter as enthusiasm about artificial intelligence, signs of a soft landing, and dovish talk from the Fed buoyed investor confidence. For the quarter, the Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 5.62%, the Standard & Poor’s 500 Index gained 10.16%, and the Nasdaq Composite picked up 9.11%.1 Rocky Start in January Stocks saw modest gains in January as positive economic data (retail sales, gross domestic product [GDP] report) and upbeat Q4 corporate reports

Successfully saving for short-term and long-term goals is an important part of any financial strategy. Since 2007, every April, we have celebrated America Saves Week, which is dedicated to helping people save.  Let’s learn more about what America Saves Week is and its themes for this year. We’ll also share tips and tricks to help you save for what matters most.  What is America Saves Week?  America Saves Week is an annual celebration that encourages Americans to take charge of

In an era dominated by digital transactions and online financial activities, protecting your personal information is more crucial than ever. If you suspect that your personal information or identity was stolen, freezing your credit is one way to protect yourself, as it restricts access to your credit report.  Here, we will delve into the reasons for freezing your credit, how to freeze your credit, and the benefits of this powerful financial safeguard.  Understanding Credit Freezes  A credit freeze is a