Wealth Planning Opportunities in a Market Downturn: Risks and Strategies
Downturn Wealth Planning Threats and Opportunities The market is in a correction and flirting with bear market territory. Given this environment, assessing potential risks and taking advantage of planning opportunities is important. Start by reviewing loan-to-asset ratios where portfolios are pledged against lines of credit. A $1 million pledged asset line against a $2 million […]
Rising Costs, Roth IRAs, and Social Security: Wealth Planning in an Inflationary Environment
Rising Costs, Roth IRAs, and Social Security Expectations With inflationary pressures and economic uncertainty this year, building a buffer for rising costs may be wise. To prepare for a potential price surge, we recommend increasing projected living expenses this year and next. For those feeling the strain of higher costs, now is a good time […]
BOI Reporting Update: FinCEN Removes Requirement for U.S. Companies
Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) Reporting Update FinCEN has removed the requirement for U.S. companies and persons to report beneficial ownership information (BOI) under the Corporate Transparency Act, effective March 2, 2025. Now, only foreign entities registering to do business in the U.S. must report BOI, but they are not required to disclose U.S. persons as […]
Are You a High Earner But Still Broke? Five Fixes for That
March 24, 2025 If you’re a HENRY (a higher earner, not rich yet) but feel like you still live paycheck to paycheck, there are steps you can take to get control of your financial future. As published in Kiplinger HENRYs, or high earners, not rich yet, are professionals who earn significant income but struggle to […]
Managing Your Wealth Plan as Inflation Stabilizes and Tariffs Loom
Managing Your Plan Amid Inflation Shifts February inflation data was released last week, showing signs of stabilization. Consumer prices were up 2.8% in February from a year earlier, per the Labor Department (Wall Street Journal). However, this could change with the introduction of new tariffs in the coming months. A slightly higher long-term inflation rate […]
Proactive Strategies to Guard Against Wealth Planning Risks During Market Volatility
Staying Ahead of Volatility Even with seemingly stable economic data and company fundamentals, there’s an undercurrent of fear and uncertainty that may lead to further market volatility. It’s important to stay alert during these turbulent times and proactively guard against risks. One area to review is leverage in the form of margin loans and pledged […]
Preparing for an Inheritance: Don’t Let Your Blessing Become a Curse
March 5, 2025 A few practical steps, such as establishing your financial independence and asking questions, can help you avoid inheritance pitfalls. As published in Kiplinger By Mallon FitzPatrick Many people look forward to an inheritance — it can provide financial security, opportunities for education and the ability to pursue passions. But there’s a lesser-known, […]
IRS Layoffs During Tax Season: What It Means for Your Filing and Audits
IRS Layoffs During Tax Season The administration’s cost-reduction plan has led to IRS staff layoffs, affecting approximately 6,700 employees right in the middle of tax season. The new DOGE cuts primarily impact the Small Business/Self-Employed Division, which focuses on compliance for businesses with under $10 million in assets. As a result, those who file their […]
Market Volatility Warning Signs: How to Protect Your Portfolio Now
Market Jitters Recent economic indicators suggest the economy may be cooling, including a decline in the US Purchasing Managers Index for Services and a weaker-than-expected Michigan Consumer Sentiment Survey. This could lead to market volatility and increased uncertainty. A brief review of your plan may reassure those concerned about market fluctuations. Modeling a scenario with […]
Navigating Inflation: What a 3% CPI Means for Your Financial Plan
Navigating Inflation Inflation remains a concern, holding steady at 3% (U.S. Consumer Price Index, February 2025). Given this persistence, the Federal Reserve is unlikely to lower rates aggressively. While this may feel unsettling, it is important to put the numbers in perspective. The 50-year average inflation rate before 2022 hovered around 2.3%, but now it […]
How Tariffs and Policy Shifts Could Impact Your Long-Term Wealth Strategy
What Policy Shifts Could Mean for Your Long-Term Strategy Many changes are unfolding in Washington, including ongoing discussions about tariffs – most recently on steel and aluminum. The outcome remains uncertain, leaving many wondering how these shifts could impact inflation and financial markets. Uncertainty often breeds concern, sometimes even fear, which can reduce consumer spending. […]
2025 and Beyond: Investment and Wealth Planning Outlook Webinar
Jan 24, 2025 – Chief Investment Officer Stuart Katz and Head of Wealth Planning Mallon FitzPatrick have a conversation moderated by Chief Economist Jeanette Garretty as they offer their perspective on markets and wealth planning. Disclosures Investment advisory services offered through Robertson Stephens Wealth Management, LLC (“Robertson Stephens Wealth Management, LLC”), an SEC-registered investment advisor. […]