We switched our portfolios to a capital preservation strategy late in 2008. There is no rush to return to the equity markets until there are clear signs the deleveraging is ending. Read more...

Many people focus on to build their IRA balances and then how much to withdraw from the accounts. The treatment of IRAs in estate plans often is overlooked, and that provides a bonanza for the IRA and problems for heirs. Read more...

In many families, younger members care for older members for at least a brief period. The care can take several forms, and there are financial and tax consequences to each form. Read more...

What is the best age to begin Social Security retirement benefits. The answer might be changing, and surprising Read more...

The financial crisis and market panic demonstrate why most of the investment plans for those in or near retirement are wrong. There are better ways to manage retirement money, but you will not learn about them from conventional advisors and sources. Read more...

Long-term care insurance has been a mainstream product only since the 1980s. It is evolving, and dramatic changes are occurring. In this visit, we review critical recent changes and discuss how you should respond. Read more...

The best financial move a person can make is to start saving and investing early. That also is the hardest lesson to teach young people. Here is a graphic example of the power of time and compound returns. Read more...

Most discussions of estate planning, including in this newsletter, focus on discrete topics and strategies. Once in a while, especially early in the year, it is good idea to step back and look at the broader picture. There are concepts and strategies common to every estate plan and estate owner. Read more...

IRAs are supposed to be simple, but when it comes to inheriting them IRAs are more complicated than most people realize. A wrong move or two by heirs triggers high taxes, often causing most of the IRA to be paid to the IRS. Read more...

Even the clearest perspective won't save you from every market disaster. But nothing is more effective at keeping more emotion out of your investment decisions than taking a look back and reflecting. Read more...

The market is now focused on demand, which is weak because of the recession and its impact on heavy industry. But that won't last forever. Read more...

Privacy Policy  |  Subscribe Now  |  Contact Us