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StatonWalsh Insights

A financial blog designed to provide brief but actionable information on various financial topic

Thursday, May 14, 2026

On paper, many business owners are highly successful.Strong revenue. Consistent growth. Increasing net worth.Yet despite this, a common feeling remains:“I am doing well, but I do not feel financially free.”This is what we call the...

Tuesday, May 12, 2026

For construction companies working on public projects, prevailing wage is often viewed as a compliance requirement.Certified payroll, wage determinations, fringe calculations, documentation, audits. It is detailed, time consuming, and...

Monday, May 11, 2026

Stocks rose last week as peace talks picked up while investors cheered better-than-expected economic news and Q1 corporate results. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index advanced 2.33 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index rose 4.51...

Thursday, May 7, 2026

For construction business owners, financial decisions are rarely isolated.Hiring impacts cash flow. Project timelines affect revenue recognition. Equipment investments influence tax strategy. Retirement plans shape long term wealth.Yet...

Tuesday, May 5, 2026

For many construction business owners, the focus is clear: win projects, manage crews, maintain margins, and keep growth moving forward.Exit planning often sits in the background, something to think about later when the timing feels...

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Monday, May 4, 2026

Stocks advanced last week as investors moved past stalled progress in Middle East peace talks and refocused on corporate earnings. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index rose 0.91 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index climbed 1.12...

Thursday, April 30, 2026

For many business owners, insurance is viewed through a single lens protectionLife insurance replaces income disability insurance protects earning ability policies are often purchased, filed away, and rarely revisitedBut for high...

Tuesday, April 28, 2026

For many construction business owners, the business is the financial plan.It’s where the time goes, where the capital goes, and where the majority of net worth is tied up. Over time, success reinforces this mindset. The business grows,...

Monday, April 27, 2026

Stocks were mixed last week as investors gauged potential outcomes of the Middle East conflict amid an ongoing ceasefi Standard & Poor’s 500 Index rose 0.55 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index advanced 1.50 percent. By...

Thursday, April 23, 2026

For many construction business owners, a 401(k) plan starts as a checkbox item—something put in place to offer a benefit, stay competitive, and “do the right thing” for employees.But as your company grows, what once worked can quietly...

Tuesday, April 21, 2026

In construction, growth often shows up first in one place:Hiring.More projects require more crews. Tighter timelines demand more hands. Backlog grows, and teams expand to keep up.On the surface, rapid hiring looks like progress.But...

Monday, April 20, 2026

Stocks rallied last week as investor enthusiasm built for an end to the war in the Middle East and hopes of a resumption of normal global trade. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index rose 4.54 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index picked...

Thursday, April 16, 2026

Family-owned construction companies are built on trust, loyalty, and shared history.That foundation can be a powerful advantage. It can also introduce a level of complexity that is rarely visible from the outside.Because in these...

Tuesday, April 14, 2026

Construction has always been a cyclical industry.Periods of strong demand are often followed by slowdowns. Backlogs expand quickly, then tighten just as fast. Labor becomes scarce, then suddenly more available. Material costs rise,...

Monday, April 13, 2026

Hope won out over fear last week as investors set their sights on a Middle East ceasefire holding and optimistic prospects for the Strait of Hormuz reopening.The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index rose 3.56 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite...

Thursday, April 9, 2026

For many construction companies, the banking relationship is simple:You need capital → you go to the bank → you secure a loan.Transactional. Reactive. Necessary.But for firms operating between $10M–$100M in revenue, this mindset can...

Tuesday, April 7, 2026

For decades, international investing has been framed as a simple allocation decision:“Own some U.S. stocks. Own some international stocks. You’re diversified.”But that framework is outdated.In today’s environment—where capital, labor,...

Thursday, April 2, 2026

For construction companies engaged in public work, prevailing wage requirements are often treated as a compliance burden. Certified payroll reporting, fringe calculations, documentation protocols, and audit readiness consume...

Tuesday, March 31, 2026

In construction, urgency is operational reality. Deadlines drive decisions. Financial strategy often gets postponed until the next milestone passes.For firms operating between $10M–$100M in annual revenue, this delay can quietly...

Monday, March 30, 2026

Stocks ended a challenging week lower as investors' attention shifted from updates on ceasefire talks to concerns about the economic impact of a protracted conflict.The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index lost 2.12 percent, while the Nasdaq...

Thursday, March 26, 2026

Fringe dollars are required in prevailing wage environments. The question is not whether you must pay them — it is how you allocate them.Two Compliance Paths — Two Financial OutcomesFringe can be:Paid as additional cash wagesAllocated...

Tuesday, March 24, 2026

Many construction firms operate retirement plans designed for industries with entirely different workforce structures.That misalignment creates inefficiency.Construction-Specific ComplexityConstruction companies often...

Monday, March 23, 2026

Another volatile week unfolded as rapid developments in the Middle East and public comments from leaders on the conflict see-sawed markets, leaving investors struggling to keep up with updates.The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index lost 1.89...

Thursday, March 19, 2026

Construction owners typically understand backlog, bonding capacity, and project margins with precision.Exit valuation often receives far less attention.Common Gaps in Construction Exit PlanningWe regularly encounter:No updated business...

Tuesday, March 17, 2026

Prevailing wage environments create layered regulatory exposure.Beyond certified payroll, companies must ensure alignment across:Fringe calculationsBenefit allocationsDocumentation accuracyMulti-state complianceAudit preparednessEven...

Monday, March 16, 2026

Stocks logged a third-straight down week as investors digested the latest news out of the Middle East, navigated more volatility, and mulled the latest economic data. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index declined 1.60 percent, while the...

Thursday, March 12, 2026

Construction owners often reinvest aggressively into:EquipmentFleet expansionWorkforce growthBonding capacityReal estate holdingsWhile reinvestment fuels growth, personal wealth diversification often lags.Concentration RiskRelying...

Tuesday, March 10, 2026

As the troubling and fluid events unfold in the Middle East, more investors are asking, “Should we do anything?”Here are a couple of areas to keep an eye on in the weeks ahead.The Fed’s next two-day meeting ends on March 18....

Monday, March 9, 2026

Stocks fell last week as investors assessed the implications of a fresh Middle East conflict while digesting mixed reports on the jobs market.The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index fell 2.02 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index slid 1.24...

Monday, March 2, 2026

Stocks fell last week amid concerns about artificial intelligence (AI) and a warmer-than-expected reading of wholesale inflation. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index fell 0.44 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index declined 0.95 percent...

Tuesday, February 17, 2026

Stocks fell last week as investors reacted to mixed economic data and concerns over signs of broadening AI disruption of business models.The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index fell 1.39 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index declined 2.10...

Monday, February 9, 2026

Stocks were mixed last week, with broad gains on Monday and Friday bookending midweek selling pressure as investors digested earnings results from more than 100 S&P 500 companies.The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index ended the week roughly...

Monday, February 2, 2026

Stocks were mixed last week as investors navigated Q4 corporate results, a widely expected Fed decision, and a handful of economic reports.The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index rose 0.34 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index edged down 0...

Tuesday, January 27, 2026

Proactive Planning Is a Leadership Skill: Why the Most Successful Business Owners Think Beyond the Day-to-Day As a business owner, you're no stranger to hard work, fast decisions, and rolling with the punches. Whether you’re managing...

Monday, January 26, 2026

Markets ended a short but eventful week slightly lower amid geopolitical tensions and fresh tariff threats. However, constructive economic news appeared to buoy spirits as the week progressed.The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index fell 0.35...

Tuesday, January 20, 2026

Stocks ended last week with modest losses after a volatile five days of market-moving economic data, geopolitics, and Fed drama.The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index slid 0.38 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index skidded 0.66 percent....

Tuesday, January 20, 2026

Understanding the A, B, C & D of Medicare: A Quick Guide for Confident Healthcare Planning Navigating Medicare can feel overwhelming, especially with so many parts, plans, and rules to keep track of. Whether you're nearing age 65,...

Thursday, January 15, 2026

Smart Moves and Missteps: One DO & One DON’T for Building Lasting Wealth Building lasting wealth is a journey that requires careful planning, discipline, and informed decisions. While there are countless strategies and tips to guide...

Thursday, January 8, 2026

Employer Matching Contributions: A Strategic Investment in Your Team and Business As an employer, offering a 401(k) plan with matching contributions is more than just a perk—it’s a powerful strategy for attracting, retaining, and...

Monday, January 5, 2026

Stocks trended lower last week amid signs of year-end profit-taking and some sour investor sentiment over the Fed meeting minutes.The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index fell 1.03 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index lost 1.52 percent....

Monday, December 29, 2025

Stocks delivered for investors last week as positive economic data and bullish holiday cheer powered the start of a “Santa Claus rally” past consumer bah humbug sentiment.The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index rose 1.40 percent, while the...

Tuesday, December 23, 2025

Stocks posted a slight gain last week as mixed jobs data triggered some selling pressure before a cooling inflation report helped stocks recover.The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index inched ahead 0.10 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite...

Thursday, December 18, 2025

Life insurance is one of the most important tools in a financial plan. It helps protect income, provide stability, and support long-term goals for families and businesses alike. But what many people don’t realize is that a life...

Tuesday, December 16, 2025

The final stretch before Christmas is usually filled with last-minute shopping, travel plans, and family traditions. But it’s also one of the most important windows of the year to pause, review, and make financial decisions that can...

Monday, December 15, 2025

Stocks ended last week mixed. A widely anticipated Federal Reserve decision on interest rates and a rotation into non-tech areas helped push the Dow Industrials higher, while the broader market and technology stocks lagged behind. The...

Thursday, December 11, 2025

When we talk about retirement planning, most people focus on average annual returns. But one factor is often overlooked—Sequence of Returns Risk—and for business owners, it can meaningfully impact long-term financial security. Sequence...

Tuesday, December 9, 2025

For business owners—especially small and growing companies—choosing the right retirement plan is one of the most important decisions you’ll make for your team. The plan you choose impacts your ability to attract talent, manage benefits...

Monday, December 8, 2025

Stock prices pushed higher last week, notching multiple records along the way as employment and inflation data took center stage in anticipation of the Fed’s upcoming meeting. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index rose 0.31 percent, while...

Thursday, December 4, 2025

👨‍👩‍👧 When Business Value Becomes Family Wealth: Bridging Generations Without Breaking Ties Passing Down a Business Isn’t the Same as Letting Go For many entrepreneurs, the business isn’t just an asset — it’s a legacy. It’s where...

Tuesday, December 2, 2025

🌙 The “Sleep Test” for Wealth: Measuring Confidence, Not Just Performance If You Can’t Sleep, Your Plan Isn’t Working The markets are up. The portfolio looks fine on paper. But something still keeps you awake at night. That’s a signal...

Monday, December 1, 2025

Stocks pushed higher over the holiday week as investors' hopes for a Fed rate adjustment drove bullish sentiment. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index rose 3.73 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index rallied 4.91 percent. The Dow Jones...

Tuesday, November 25, 2025

Maximizing Your Retirement Savings in 2026: New Limits, New Opportunities As we approach 2026, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has released updated limits for many retirement savings vehicles. These changes present new...

Monday, November 24, 2025

Heightened volatility was on Wall Street’s mind last week, as investors continued to focus on valuations of artificial intelligence (AI) stocks. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index fell 1.95 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index...

Thursday, November 20, 2025

🧱 From Crew to C-Suite: Building Financial Literacy Across Your Company A Financially Confident Team Is a Stronger Team Whether they’re in the field or the boardroom, most employees share one common challenge — money stress. From...

Tuesday, November 18, 2025

November Is Long-Term Care Awareness Month: Why Planning Ahead Matters More Than Ever Every November, Long-Term Care Awareness Month serves as an important reminder of something many families overlook until it’s too late: the need for...

Monday, November 17, 2025

Stocks ended mixed after a nail-biting week for investors, who grew anxious over megacap tech valuations and interest rates as the government shutdown came to an end. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index edged up 0.08 percent, while the...

Thursday, November 13, 2025

🏗️ When Growth Creates Risk: The Insurance Gaps Fast-Growing Companies Miss Growth Feels Good—Until It Outpaces Protection New contracts. Bigger clients. Higher revenue. Growth is the goal for every business leader. But with expansion...

Monday, November 10, 2025

Stocks hit a rough patch last week as fresh labor market data, low consumer sentiment, and the ongoing government shutdown unnerved investors. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index declined 1.63 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index...

Thursday, November 6, 2025

🏆 The New Age of Executive Benefits: Competing Beyond Salary Attracting Leaders Takes More Than a Paycheck In today’s talent market, salary alone isn’t enough. Executives and key leaders aren’t just looking for higher pay — they’re...

Tuesday, November 4, 2025

🧭 Recession-Ready or Revenue-Reliant? Stress Testing Your Financial Plan What Happens When the Economy Flinches? Markets shift. Interest rates climb. Demand slows. Suddenly, the assumptions that made sense last quarter don’t add up...

Thursday, October 30, 2025

🎃 When Finances Get Frightening: How to Face the Five Financial Fears That Haunt Business Owners The lights are dim, the deadlines are looming, and the numbers on your balance sheet look a little… spooky. No, it’s not just Halloween...

Wednesday, October 29, 2025

Stocks rose last week thanks to a full slate of upbeat third-quarter corporate results and mild inflation data, which helped soften concerns over trade tensions with China. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index gained 1.92 percent, while...

Tuesday, October 28, 2025

Most business owners plan for a sale but overlook the most critical factor — liquidity. Turning business value into accessible, tax-efficient, and flexible wealth requires intentional pre-sale strategy. Learn how StatonWalsh helps business

Thursday, October 23, 2025

💥 The $250K Trap: When Tax Planning Sabotages Your Exit Strategy. Why Construction Owners Must Balance Tax Efficiency with Business Valuation. After years of running a successful construction business, you’re finally thinking about...

Tuesday, October 21, 2025

Your WIP Report Is Lying to You! What Construction Owners Need to Know Before Their Surety (or Buyer) Finds Out As a construction business owner, you likely review your Work-in-Progress (WIP) report regularly. It’s the backbone of how...

Thursday, October 16, 2025

Your Financial Dashboard Is Useless If You’re Not Tracking These 5 Metrics. Construction business owners often rely on bank balances and top-line revenue to measure success—but those numbers only tell part of the story. If you’re not...

Tuesday, October 14, 2025

Stocks fell last week amid concerns about trade with China, following an unsteady rally to record highs over the first half of the week. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index fell 2.43 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index declined 2.53...

Tuesday, October 14, 2025

Do You Know Who Owns Your Tools, Trucks, and Tech?Sounds basic—but it’s a nightmare waiting to happen. For many construction business owners, blurred lines between personal and business ownership can quietly create financial and...

Thursday, October 9, 2025

Learn what the 2025 government shutdown means for business owners, contractors, and individuals—and how to stay prepared financially.2025 government shutdown, federal funding lapse, business impact, construction contractors, financial plann

Tuesday, October 7, 2025

Stocks rose last week, looking past the government shutdown and apparently discounting any impact it may have on the economy. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index moved up 1.08 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index rose 1.32 percent....

Tuesday, October 7, 2025

Your CPA Files Taxes. But Who’s Looking at Your Wealth Strategy? For many construction business owners, tax season means one thing: meet with the CPA, file the return, and move on. But if your relationship with taxes starts and ends in...

Thursday, October 2, 2025

The Succession Plan No One Talks About: Owner Illness or Injury. You’ve planned your job sites in detail. You know where every truck is, every crew member, every material delivery. But what about your business if you can’t show up? For...

Tuesday, September 30, 2025

What’s Your Business Worth — And Who Actually Knows It? You might think you know what your construction business is worth… but have you tested it against real market conditions? For many construction owners, the number they carry in...

Monday, September 29, 2025

Stocks fell last week, buffeted by concerns about stock price valuations and a possible government shutdown. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index declined 0.31 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index lost 0.65 percent. The Dow Jones...

Thursday, September 25, 2025

September Is Life Insurance Awareness Month: Why Protection Comes First Every September, the financial services industry recognizes Life Insurance Awareness Month—a timely reminder of how essential protection is to both personal and...

Tuesday, September 23, 2025

How to Make Your Construction Company Attractive to a Buyer. You Don’t Just Sell a Company — You Sell a Machine That Runs Without You When you think about selling your construction business, your mind may jump to revenue, backlog, or the...

Tuesday, September 9, 2025

🎒 Back-to-School, Back to Planning: Why September Is a Smart Time to Revisit Your Financial Strategy As kids head back to the classroom, it’s also a great time for adults to get back to business—especially when it comes to financial...

Monday, September 8, 2025

Stocks made gains last week, even as megacap tech gains outweighed economic concerns. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index advanced 0.33 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index rose 1.14 percent. The Dow Jones Industrial Average...

Thursday, September 4, 2025

Are You Accidentally Building a Job—Not Wealth? Construction Owners: Make Sure Your Business Pays You Today—and Funds Your Tomorrow As a successful construction business owner, you’ve likely poured years of time, energy, and capital...

Tuesday, September 2, 2025

Compensation Strategy ≠ Just Salary Construction Business Owners: Your Pay Structure Could Be Hurting Your Wealth Goals When it comes to owner compensation, many business owners treat it like a line item on a payroll report. A fixed...

Tuesday, September 2, 2025

Stocks ended the week slightly lower as mixed economic data led to some profit-taking by investors ahead of the holiday weekend. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index edged down 0.10 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index slipped 0.19...

Thursday, August 28, 2025

Are You Paying Your Kids or Just Giving Them an Allowance? Family Business? Great. But Is Your Legacy Intentional—Or Accidental? If your kids are working in your construction business—whether it’s on-site, behind the scenes, or helping...

Tuesday, August 26, 2025

Your Insurance Is a Strategy — Not a Line Item Construction Owners: Start Treating Insurance Like a Financial Tool When you think about insurance, what comes to mind? For most construction business owners, it’s just another line...

Thursday, August 21, 2025

The Retirement Time Bomb: Undiversified Wealth Why Construction Owners Must Diversify Before They Exit You’ve built a thriving construction business. Revenues are strong, your backlog looks good, and you’re counting on the eventual...

Tuesday, August 19, 2025

🧾 Tax Planning Is Not a Season—It’s a Strategy Why Construction Business Owners Need a Year-Round Tax Game Plan When most people think about taxes, they think about April 15th.But if you're a business owner, especially in the...

Thursday, August 14, 2025

🔐 Bonding Capacity: The Hidden Financial Lever Every Construction Owner Should Master In the construction world, you don’t win big jobs without trust—and bonding capacity is the ultimate trust metric. But too often, bonding is viewed...

Tuesday, August 12, 2025

Stocks rebounded last week as investor optimism for a September rate adjustment and strong Q2 corporate results overcame the rollout of fresh tariffs. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index rose 2.43 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index...

Thursday, August 7, 2025

🏗️ The Reinvestment Dilemma: Business Growth vs. Owner Wealth How to Balance Building the Business and Building Your Personal Future For many construction business owners, reinvestment is second nature. You see an opportunity to buy...

Tuesday, August 5, 2025

The One Big Beautiful Bill Has Arrived: What Construction Owners Need to Watch Why This Legislation Matters—and How It Affects Your Tax, Wealth & Succession Strategy President Trump signed the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) into...

Monday, August 4, 2025

Stocks fell last week as investors assessed progress on trade negotiations, new U.S. tariffs, and fresh data on the U.S. economy. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index fell 2.36 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index declined 2.17...

Thursday, July 31, 2025

🧱 Does Your Succession Plan Protect the Next Generation? What Happens to Your Construction Business When You Step Away? As a construction business owner, you've built more than just buildings—you've built a reputation, a team, and a...

Tuesday, July 29, 2025

🏗️ Your Project Pipeline vs. Your Wealth Pipeline Why Building Jobs Without Building Wealth Is a Risk You Can’t Afford As a construction business owner, you wouldn’t think of running your company without a solid project pipeline. You...

Monday, July 28, 2025

Expectation-beating Q2 results from several companies, trade updates, and investor optimism for more trade agreements pushed market averages to solid gains. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index advanced 1.46 percent, while the Nasdaq...

Thursday, July 24, 2025

📈 Is Your Valuation Exit-Ready or Just a Number? Why Guesswork Could Derail Your Construction Business Succession Plan If you’re like many construction business owners, you probably have a number in mind for what your company is worth...

Tuesday, July 22, 2025

💼 Your Retirement Plan Could Be Your Bid Advantage How Prevailing Wage Fringe Dollars Can Lower Costs, Save Taxes, and Strengthen Your Team If your construction business works on public projects—local, state, or federal—you already...

Monday, July 21, 2025

Stocks were mixed last week, battling through tariff talk while responding to upbeat quarterly corporate reports and a trove of updates on the economy. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index rose 0.59 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite...

Thursday, July 17, 2025

🏗️ Are Your Personal & Business Assets Entangled? How Smart Contractors Protect Family Wealth While Growing the Business When you’re the owner of a successful construction company, it’s natural for your business and personal financial...

Tuesday, July 15, 2025

🦺 The Succession Plan Nobody Talks About: Why Disability Planning Is Critical for Contractors Protect Your Business from the Risk You’re Most Likely to Face Most construction business owners know the importance of planning for what...

Monday, July 14, 2025

Stocks were slightly lower last week, while looking past news of fresh U.S. tariffs on nearly two dozen countries. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index fell 0.31 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index edged lower by 0.08 percent. The...

Thursday, July 10, 2025

💸 The Contractor’s Hidden Tax: The Cost of Idle Cash How Excess Cash Can Quietly Erode the Value of Your Construction Business As a construction business owner, holding substantial cash reserves can feel like a smart, safe move. After...

Tuesday, July 8, 2025

📉 The Business Valuation Blind Spot: What You Don’t Know Could Cost You You’ve built a thriving construction business—projects are on schedule, your team is solid, and the revenue is climbing. But do you really know what your business...

Tuesday, July 8, 2025

Trade developments and continued momentum pushed all three major averages to modest gains again for a shortened holiday trading week. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index rose 1.72 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index added 1.62...

Thursday, July 3, 2025

🖋️ Ink Without Action? Why Your Buy-Sell Agreement Might Be a Ticking Time Bomb For many construction business owners, creating a buy-sell agreement feels like checking an important legal box. ✔️ Signed✔️ Filed✔️ Done… right? Not...

Tuesday, July 1, 2025

🧭 Financial GPS: Are You Driving Without It? Why Every Construction Business Owner Needs a Personal Wealth Blueprint Running a $10M+ construction business without a clear personal financial strategy is like navigating a job site...

Monday, June 30, 2025

Stocks staged a broad-based rally last week on investors’ hopes for a lasting Middle East ceasefire, hitting fresh record highs along the way. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index rose 3.44 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index added 4...

Thursday, June 26, 2025

👷‍♂️ Is Your 401(k) Plan Invisible? Why a Retirement Plan No One Understands Might Be Costing You More Than You Think Many construction business owners invest time and money into setting up a 401(k) for their team—but what happens...

Tuesday, June 24, 2025

🧭 Financial Planning with a Strategic Edge: A SWOT-Inspired Approach How Understanding Your Financial Strengths and Risks Can Drive Better Business and Life Decisions When most people think of a SWOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses,...

Monday, June 23, 2025

Stocks were mixed during the holiday-shortened trading week as uncertainty over conflict in the Middle East weighed on investors. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index slipped by 0.15 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index rose by 0.21...

Thursday, June 19, 2025

Avoid the Fringe Flush: Don’t Waste Your Prevailing Wage Dollars Turn Compliance into Competitive Advantage If your construction firm performs work on public projects—federal, state, or municipal—you’re no stranger to prevailing wage...

Tuesday, June 17, 2025

🧱 Is Your Business One Phone Call Away from a Crisis? Understanding and Managing Key Person Risk in Construction In the construction world, every successful company has a few essential people holding things together—owners, project...

Monday, June 16, 2025

Stocks fell last week as an up-and-down mix of trade progress and anxiety, economic news, and geopolitical tensions netted out. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index slid 0.39 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index slipped 0.63 percent....

Friday, June 13, 2025

🏗️ The Construction CFO Trap: Are You Too Busy Building to Grow? You’ve mastered the art of building. But who’s building your financial future? If you're like many construction business owners, your days are spent managing crews,...

Wednesday, June 11, 2025

🧨 It’s Time to Retire These Wall Street Clichés (And Think Smarter About Your Money) Wall Street has always had a flair for catchy phrases—quick lines that aim to explain the market, offer advice, or calm nerves. But here’s the...

Monday, June 9, 2025

Stocks rallied last week as investors responded to upbeat economic data and easing trade tensions. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index added 1.50 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index rose 2.18 percent. The Dow Jones Industrial...

Tuesday, June 3, 2025

The Wealth You Don’t See: The Invisible Return on Financial PlanningReal value goes beyond portfolio performance. Ask any investor what return they’re aiming for, and they’ll give you a number. But ask what they really want—and you’ll...

Thursday, May 29, 2025

The Financial Blind Spots Business Owners Don’t See—Until It’s Too LateProactive planning isn’t just about what you know—it’s about what you don’t. As a construction business owner, you’re used to seeing what others miss. You...

Tuesday, May 27, 2025

Why High Earners Need a Personal Cash Flow Statement—Not Just a BudgetIf you own a business or have variable income, budgeting apps may be holding you back. Budgeting apps are great—for employees with regular paychecks, static expenses...

Thursday, May 22, 2025

What Happens If You Sell in a Down Market?Why business owners need to prepare for timing risk—just like investors. For most business owners, the sale of their company is their single biggest financial event. It’s their retirement plan,...

Tuesday, May 20, 2025

3 Financial Planning Mistakes Even Smart People MakeWhy financial knowledge isn’t enough—and what it really takes to build lasting wealth. Smart people make smart choices. But when it comes to financial planning, intelligence alone...

Thursday, May 15, 2025

Your Net Worth ≠ Your Financial FreedomWhy the number on your balance sheet isn’t the whole story—and how to build a plan that supports the life you really want. Net worth is often treated as the ultimate scoreboard of financial...

Tuesday, May 13, 2025

The Hidden Cost of Reinvesting Everything Into Your BusinessWhy business success doesn’t always equal personal financial security—and what to do about it. As a construction business owner, you’ve likely been told that reinvesting...

Thursday, May 8, 2025

Your Business Is Not Your Retirement Plan: Why You Need More Than a Future SaleFor many construction business owners, the default retirement plan sounds something like this:"I’ll sell the business one day, and that will fund my...

Tuesday, April 29, 2025

Debunking 6 Common Myths About Social Security Social Security plays a major role in most Americans’ retirement income, yet it’s one of the most misunderstood parts of the financial planning puzzle. At StatonWalsh, we regularly hear...

Monday, April 28, 2025

Stocks pushed higher last week, spurred by the White House's reassuring comments that progress was being made with trade talks. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index gained 4.59 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index picked up 6.73...

Thursday, April 24, 2025

Mid-Year Financial Check-In: Why Now Is the Smartest Time to Adjust Your Strategy The year is well underway, projects are moving, and business is booming—or maybe it’s been a little more unpredictable than expected. Either way, now is...

Tuesday, April 22, 2025

Think You Know What Your Construction Business Is Worth? Think Again If someone asked you right now, “What’s your business worth?”—how confident would you be in your answer? For many construction owners, their business is not only...

Monday, April 21, 2025

U.S. stocks slipped over the shortened trading week as Q1 corporate reports started to roll in. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index dropped 1.50 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index fell 2.62 percent. The Dow Jones Industrial Average...

Thursday, April 17, 2025

🔑 Retirement Planning for Construction Owners: Are You Ready for the Future? As a construction business owner, you’re no stranger to hard work. You’ve put in the hours, grown your business, and built a reputation. But when it comes to...

Tuesday, April 15, 2025

The Best Time to Plan Your Exit from a Construction Business? Way Before You Think As a construction business owner, you've built your company brick by brick—projects, people, and profits. But there’s one blueprint many owners forget...

Thursday, April 10, 2025

Tax Day Is April 15th – Here’s What Every Construction Business Owner Should KnowDon’t just meet the deadline—use it as a strategic advantage. Why April 15th Should Be More Than Just a Deadline Tax Day can feel like a finish line. For...

Tuesday, April 8, 2025

Cash Flow: The Lifeblood of Your Construction Business As a construction business owner, you know that managing cash flow can feel like an ongoing battle. You’ve got projects lined up, but payments can be unpredictable—and one missed...

Monday, April 7, 2025

Stocks fell broadly last week as domestic and foreign markets reacted to the White House’s tariffs. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index declined 9.08 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index fell 10.02 percent. The Dow Jones Industrial...

Thursday, April 3, 2025

5 Financial Mistakes That Could Sink Your Construction Business Introduction Your construction business is thriving, but are you making these costly financial mistakes that could jeopardize your future? From cash flow mismanagement to...

Tuesday, April 1, 2025

You Know How to Build – But Are You Building Your Financial Future? Introduction As a construction business owner, you’ve likely spent years honing your craft, managing projects, and growing your business. You know how to build...

Monday, March 31, 2025

Stocks moved lower last week as investors swung from exuberance to disappointment on news over tariffs and inflation. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index fell 1.53 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index retreated 2.59 percent. The Dow...

Friday, March 28, 2025

The Tax Triangle of Investing: How to Maximize Tax Efficiency in Your Portfolio When it comes to investing, it’s not just about how much you earn—it’s about how much you keep. Taxes can take a significant bite out of your investment...

Thursday, March 27, 2025

The 3-Layer Strategy to Wealth Preservation: Protect, Grow & Secure Your Legacy Building wealth is an accomplishment, but keeping it and ensuring it lasts for generations requires more than just a strong investment portfolio. Many...

Tuesday, March 25, 2025

The Silent Risk in Your Portfolio: Are You Really Diversified? You’ve heard it before: “Diversification is key to managing risk.” But what if the way you’re diversifying isn’t actually protecting you? Many investors believe that...

Monday, March 24, 2025

Stocks notched a solid gain last week as upbeat comments from the Fed helped stocks snap their four-week losing streak. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index rose 0.51 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index picked up 0.17 percent. The...

Friday, March 21, 2025

The #1 Mistake Business Owners Make with Their Life Insurance When was the last time you reviewed your business life insurance policy? If you’re like most business owners, the answer is probably “not recently.” Life insurance is often...

Thursday, March 20, 2025

Insurance Alarm: What Types of Insurance Exist & Why They Matter Life is full of uncertainties—but the right insurance can protect you, your loved ones, and your assets from the unexpected. Whether it’s a medical emergency, an accident...

Tuesday, March 18, 2025

Who Needs Life Insurance the Most? (Spoiler: It’s Not Who You Think!) Life insurance is often seen as something only parents, retirees, or the ultra-wealthy need. But in reality, if you have financial responsibilities, life insurance...

Monday, March 17, 2025

Investors endured another volatile, whipsaw week as ongoing trade talks and White House comments about the economy unsettled investors. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index declined 2.27 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index dropped 2...

Thursday, March 13, 2025

Why Your Credit Score May Drop – And How to Fix It Your credit score is one of the most important financial tools you have—it affects your ability to secure loans, buy a home, finance a car, and even land certain jobs. But sometimes,...

Tuesday, March 11, 2025

The Power of Structured Borrowing: How to Grow Wealth Without Selling Assets Most people are taught that avoiding debt is the safest path to financial security. But in reality, structured borrowing is one of the most effective tools...

Monday, March 10, 2025

Stocks continued their slide through a volatile week. U.S. trade policy drove much of the market’s movement, broadening investors' concerns about economic growth and inflation. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index declined 3.10 percent,...

Wednesday, March 5, 2025

The Silent Business Killer: What Happens If You’re Not There? You built it. You scaled it. You poured your heart, time, and resources into it. But what happens if you step away—by choice or by circumstance? Would your business continue...

Monday, March 3, 2025

Stocks were mixed last week as investor concerns over inflation and trade policy combined to produce another volatile trading week. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 0.95 percent, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 Index lost 0.98...

Monday, February 24, 2025

Stocks fell last week as concerns about sticky inflation and the pace of economic growth rattled investors. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index declined 1.66 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index dropped 2.51 percent. The Dow Jones...

Thursday, February 20, 2025

The Wealth Transfer Mistakes That Cost Families Millions—and How to Avoid Them Building wealth takes strategy, discipline, and years of hard work. But preserving that wealth for future generations? That requires an entirely different...

Tuesday, February 18, 2025

The Psychology of Money: Why Your Mindset is Key to Building Wealth When it comes to building wealth, most people focus on numbers—income, expenses, savings, and investments. While these are undoubtedly important, there’s another...

Thursday, February 13, 2025

What’s Your Financial Freedom Number—and How to Reach It Financial freedom is a goal we all aspire to achieve. It’s the ability to live life on your terms, free from the constraints of financial stress. But how do you make that dream a...

Tuesday, February 11, 2025

Lessons from History: How Financial Resilience Builds Lasting Wealth History is a powerful teacher, especially when it comes to navigating financial challenges. From the Great Depression to the 2008 financial crisis, moments of...

Monday, February 10, 2025

Stocks posted modest losses last week as tariff deals, January jobs data, and Q4 corporate reports injected volatility into markets. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index slipped 0.24 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index lost 0.53...

Friday, February 7, 2025

Empty Nest, Full Opportunities: Financial Strategies for Your Next Chapter Becoming an empty nester marks a significant life transition. With your children off to college or starting their own lives, you may find yourself with more...

Thursday, February 6, 2025

How Inflation Impacts Your Everyday Budget—and How to Stay Ahead Inflation is often referred to as the “silent thief,” slowly eroding the purchasing power of your money over time. It’s a natural part of any economy, but when inflation...

Monday, February 3, 2025

Stocks were mixed last week as investors parsed market-moving news nearly every trading day—from an unsettling AI update to White House news to Q4 corporate reports. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index fell 1.00 percent while the Nasdaq...

Thursday, January 30, 2025

Building a Financial Wellness Program: What Every Employer Should Include As an employer, fostering financial wellness among your employees isn’t just an added perk—it’s an investment in their well-being and your business’s success....

Monday, January 27, 2025

Stocks rallied last week as investors reacted positively to a handful of better-than-expected corporate earnings reports and developments out of Washington, D.C. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index gained 1.74 percent, while the Nasdaq...

Friday, January 24, 2025

SECURE 2.0 Act: What It Means for Your Retirement Planning The SECURE 2.0 Act is a game-changer in the world of retirement planning. Building on the original SECURE Act of 2019, this legislation introduces new provisions designed to...

Thursday, January 23, 2025

Building Your Financial Future: The Financial Planning Pyramid When it comes to financial planning, the foundation you build is just as important as the growth you aim for. Think of your financial strategy as a pyramid: it needs a...

Tuesday, January 21, 2025

What to Look For When Reviewing the Performance of Your Portfolio Regularly reviewing your investment portfolio is a critical step in staying aligned with your financial goals. Whether you’re investing for retirement, saving for a...

Friday, January 17, 2025

Health is Wealth: Why Disability Insurance is Essential for Protecting Your Financial Future Your health is your most valuable asset—it’s what enables you to work, pursue goals, and enjoy life’s moments. But what happens when an...

Thursday, January 16, 2025

Wealth vs. Income: Understanding the Difference and Building a Legacy Many people equate high income with wealth, but the two are not the same. While income is essential for financial success, building wealth requires deliberate...

Tuesday, January 14, 2025

5 Steps to Plan Your Financial Success in 2026 As we step into a new year, it’s the perfect opportunity to revisit your financial goals and create a roadmap for success. Whether you’re saving for a major milestone, preparing for...

Tuesday, January 14, 2025

10 Ways to Teach Kids About Money and Build Financial Responsibility Financial literacy is one of the most valuable lessons you can give your child. Understanding how to earn, save, and spend money wisely not only sets them up for...

Monday, January 13, 2025

Stocks fell for the second consecutive week as a round of fresh economic data stoked inflationary fears among investors. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index declined 1.94 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index dropped 2.34 percent. The...

Friday, January 10, 2025

Francis Bacon’s timeless quote, "Money is a good servant, a bad master," captures the dual nature of wealth. When managed well, money becomes a powerful tool to build security, freedom, and opportunity. But when it’s allowed to take control

Thursday, January 9, 2025

Planning for Long-Term Care: Protect Your Future and Preserve Your Legacy As we navigate life’s uncertainties, planning for long-term care is one of the most important steps you can take to ensure financial security and peace of mind....

Tuesday, January 7, 2025

Managing substantial wealth or running a successful business comes with unique challenges—and opportunities. One of the most impactful ways to preserve and grow your wealth is through advanced tax strategies. By proactively planning, busine

Monday, January 6, 2025

Stocks edged lower last week despite a powerful end-of-week rally. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index lost 0.48 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index slid 0.51 percent. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 0.60 percent. The MSCI...

Friday, January 3, 2025

How to Talk to Your Heirs About Wealth Without Creating Entitlement Discussing wealth and inheritance with your heirs can feel like walking a tightrope. While it’s essential to prepare the next generation to manage wealth responsibly,...

Thursday, January 2, 2025

When it comes to building financial success, the best time to start planning was yesterday. The second-best time is right now. Starting early is one of the most powerful ways to take control of your financial future, no matter where you are

Thursday, December 26, 2024

How Financial Planning Supports Your Philanthropic Goals For many individuals, philanthropy is more than just giving back—it’s about making a meaningful, lasting impact on the world. Whether you want to support your local community,...

Monday, December 23, 2024

Stocks were under pressure last week as the Fed Chair's hawkish comments unsettled investors ahead of the holiday season. The Dow Jones Industrial Average received the hardest hit, falling 2.25 percent. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index...

Friday, December 20, 2024

Tax-Loss Harvesting: Turning Market Volatility Into a Tax-Saving Opportunity Market volatility can make even the most seasoned investors uneasy, but it also creates opportunities to optimize your portfolio and minimize your tax burden....

Monday, December 16, 2024

9 Days of Financial Tips to End the Year Strong The end of the year is here, and while the holidays are a time for celebration, they’re also the perfect opportunity to wrap up your financial goals for 2024 and set the stage for a...

Monday, December 16, 2024

Stocks finished the week mixed, bookending losses around midweek gains as investors digested fresh inflation data. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index slipped 0.64 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index ticked up 0.34 percent. The Dow...

Friday, December 13, 2024

The holiday season is upon us, and that means it’s time for festive gatherings, family traditions, and—for many—lots of baking! But did you know that creating a financial plan is a lot like baking your favorite holiday treats? Both require

Thursday, December 12, 2024

As an employer, offering a 401(k) plan is one of the most impactful ways to support your employees' financial futures. However, managing a 401(k) plan also comes with important responsibilities, particularly when it comes to compliance. Fai

Tuesday, December 10, 2024

A significant liquidity event, such as an inheritance, the sale of a business, or proceeds from an IPO, can be a life-changing financial milestone. However, without a clear strategy, it can also bring complexity and potential challenges. At

Monday, December 9, 2024

Stocks were mixed during the first trading week of December. Technology stocks led, while the widely followed Dow Jones Industrial Average struggled. The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index picked up 3.34 percent while the Dow...

Friday, December 6, 2024

If you’ve ever wondered whether it’s too late to start investing, you’re not alone. Many people hesitate to take the first step, thinking they’ve missed their opportunity. Whether you’re in your 20s, 40s, or even nearing retirement, the tru

Thursday, December 5, 2024

In today’s workforce, offering a 401(k) plan has become a standard employee benefit. While it’s an important component of financial security, it’s no longer enough to attract, engage, and retain top talent. Employees are seeking more compre

Monday, December 2, 2024

Stocks posted solid gains over a short and busy holiday week as investors parsed fresh economic data, comments on potential future trade policy, and a few Q3 reports from technology companies. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index gained 1...

Friday, November 29, 2024

Family businesses form the backbone of many economies, bringing a unique blend of tradition, values, and personal dedication. Yet, when it comes to succession planning, the path forward can be filled with emotional and financial complexitie

Thursday, November 28, 2024

When it comes to employee benefits, offering a well-structured retirement plan is a game-changer. Not only does it help attract and retain top talent, but it also shows your commitment to your employees’ financial futures. However, choosing

Tuesday, November 26, 2024

Planning Your Legacy: Why Early Succession Planning Sets You Up for Success Building a successful business is a remarkable achievement, but the true measure of success often lies in the legacy you leave behind. At StatonWalsh, we...

Monday, November 25, 2024

Stocks advanced last week, powering ahead with pre-holiday optimism despite geopolitical tensions and two disappointing Q3 corporate updates. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index rose 1.68 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index gained 1...

Tuesday, November 19, 2024

📣 BREAKING NEWS: 2025 Retirement Plan Contribution Limits Are Here! 📣 As we look ahead to 2025, it's the perfect time to review your retirement strategy. The IRS has announced new contribution limits for retirement accounts, giving...

Monday, November 18, 2024

Stocks fell last week as the postelection rally lost momentum amid an inflation uptick and cautious comments from Fed officials. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index fell 2.08 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index declined 3.15 percent...

Monday, November 4, 2024

Stocks slid last week as mixed economic data and strong-but-not-spectacular Q3 corporate reports failed to inspire investors. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index fell 1.36 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index declined 1.50 percent....

Monday, October 21, 2024

Stocks posted modest gains last week, with quarterly earnings season in full swing and the election on the horizon. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index increased 0.85 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index rose 0.80 percent. The Dow...

Monday, October 7, 2024

Stocks were essentially unchanged last week as geopolitical tensions added some volatility to an otherwise quiet trading week. The Dow Jones Industrial Average was flat (+0.09 percent), while the Standard & Poor’s 500 Index ticked up...

Monday, September 30, 2024

Stocks moved higher last week, continuing to build on the momentum generated after the Federal Reserve decided to cut short-term rates by 0.50 percent. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index gained 0.59 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite...

Monday, September 9, 2024

Stocks fell last week as soft economic data rattled investors focused on the Fed’s next move with interest rates. The Dow Jones Industrial Average lost 2.93 percent, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 Index dropped 4.25 percent. The...

Monday, August 26, 2024

Stocks notched a solid gain as dovish comments from Federal Reserve officials boosted the market’s recovery from early August lows. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index rose 1.45 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite added 1.40 percent. The...

Monday, August 12, 2024

Stocks ended last week with modest losses, masking a volatile five-day trading period that saw investors embrace recession concerns and then dismiss the slow-down talk as speculation as the week progressed. The Dow Jones Industrial...

Tuesday, August 6, 2024

Investing in the stock market is often seen as a daunting task, filled with complexities and uncertainties. However, the wisdom of Warren Buffett offers a simple yet profound insight: "The stock market is a device for transferring...

Monday, August 5, 2024

Stocks fell broadly last week as investors looked past upbeat Fed comments and focused on disappointing corporate reports and weaker-than-expected economic data. The Dow Jones Industrial Average lost 2.20 percent, while the Standard &...

Monday, July 29, 2024

Stocks had a mixed, see-saw week as disappointing corporate reports unsettled investors who appeared to rotate away from some leading groups in favor of other names. The Dow Jones Industrial Average picked up 0.75 percent. Meanwhile,...

Monday, July 22, 2024

Stocks were under pressure last week as investors appeared to rotate out of mega-cap tech stocks and into areas that may benefit from lower interest rates. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index fell 1.97 percent, while Nasdaq Composite...

Monday, July 15, 2024

Stocks advanced last week as market leadership shifted amid fresh inflation data and quarterly corporate reports starting to roll in. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index advanced 0.87 percent, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average picked...

Monday, July 1, 2024

Stocks finished the last week of June and Q2 mixed as investors digested a fresh round of economic data. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index slipped 0.08%, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average also dipped 0.08 percent. The tech-heavy...

Monday, June 24, 2024

Stocks edged higher over the four trading days last week, with the three major averages taking turns leading based on various economic and artificial intelligence (AI) news. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 1.45 percent–its best...

Monday, June 10, 2024

Stocks rose last week despite conflicting stories from economic reports. The Dow Jones Industrial Average inched up 0.29 percent while the Standard & Poor’s 500 Index powered ahead 1.31 percent. The Nasdaq Composite led, picking up 2...

Monday, June 3, 2024

Stocks edged lower in the final week of May as fresh news on economic growth and inflation failed to inspire investors. Stocks Slide Markets shrugged off news that the Q1 Gross Domestic Product was revised lower to 1.3 percent from...

Friday, May 24, 2024

As we inch closer to the second half of 2024, I’ll give you three reasons to be optimistic about the outlook for the financial markets. We have an election on the horizon, so you’ll likely hear mixed messages about the economy’s...

Wednesday, May 22, 2024

In today’s complex financial landscape, managing a 401(k) plan requires more than just setting it up and letting it run on autopilot. Regular retirement plan committee meetings with your advisor are crucial for ensuring the health and...

Monday, May 20, 2024

Stocks notched a solid gain last week in a mega-cap, tech-led rally bolstered by positive inflation news. Dow 40,000 The week began quietly as market averages traded in a tight range, awaiting fresh inflation news. On Tuesday, markets...

Monday, May 13, 2024

Stocks notched a solid gain last week as rate-cut expectations paced the rally as the Q1 earnings season wound down. Stocks Climb Steadily Monday opened with stocks picking up where they left off the prior Friday. Stocks were still...

Monday, April 22, 2024

Stocks fell for a third straight week, as Fed Chair Jerome Powell's mixed but upbeat message could not offset the anxiety caused by the Middle East conflict. Stocks Retreat Markets began the week rattled by further escalation in the...

Monday, April 15, 2024

Stocks fell last week as investors sorted through conflicting inflation reports and assessed geopolitical tensions. Inflation Spooks Markets On Wednesday, the March Consumer Price Index (CPI) report rattled markets, revealing that...

Monday, April 8, 2024

Stocks dropped last week as investors focused on “what's next” for interest rates after mixed comments from multiple Fed officials. Fed Officials Weigh In Stocks struggled out of the gate again last week, ending Monday and Tuesday in...

Monday, April 1, 2024

Stocks were narrowly higher for the week as investors digested mixed economic news about consumer confidence. All three of the major averages posted gains for Q1 2024. Stocks Finish Strong Markets slipped for the first half of the...

Monday, March 18, 2024

Stocks fell for the second straight week on inflation concerns despite a report on consumer prices that was initially well received by investors. Stocks Slide Tuesday was the only bright spot during the week as stock prices rose after...

Monday, March 11, 2024

Stocks were down for the week as investors appeared to take some profits and traders parsed Fed Chair Jerome Powell’s Congressional testimony. Markets Wobble  Stocks had a rough start to the week, with the Dow, S&P 500, and...

Monday, March 4, 2024

Stocks extended their tech-led advance last week as signs of a resilient and still-enthusiastic consumer boosted momentum. Nasdaq Sets New High Stocks traded in a narrow band early in the week but ended the five-trading sessions with...

Monday, February 26, 2024

Stocks vaulted to new heights last week on the back of an artificial intelligence (AI) semiconductor company, marking investors’ belief that AI has the potential to transform the U.S. economy. Stocks Rally to Record Highs Stocks...

Monday, February 12, 2024

The stock market experienced solid gains last week, concluding the trading week on a positive note, thanks to robust corporate reports and favorable inflation news; this propelled the S&P 500 Index to achieve a new record high at the...

Monday, January 29, 2024

Stocks continued their upward climb last week as excitement around big tech continued; positive economic reports stoked investors’ belief that the Federal Reserve has pulled off a soft landing. Stocks Power Ahead Big tech was...

Wednesday, January 24, 2024

The Art of Financial Planning: “Creative Optimism” over “Rational Pessimism”   When you think of financial planning, the first words that come mind be “numbers,” “budgets,” or...

Monday, January 22, 2024

Stocks finished higher last week, with big tech again leading amid lingering uncertainty over how continued economic strength would influence the Fed’s rate decision. Stocks Dip, Then Rally  Stock prices dropped early in...

Monday, January 8, 2024

Stocks retreated in the first trading week of 2024, struggling a bit after a celebratory end to last year as investors second-guessed Fed signals and fretted over lingering inflation concerns. New Year Blues Stocks got off to a rough...

Thursday, January 4, 2024

As 2024 unfolds, it's crucial for businesses to evaluate and enhance their corporate retirement plans. This guide will walk you through essential steps to ensure your company's retirement plan is effective, compliant, and beneficial...

Tuesday, January 2, 2024

Stocks posted a slight gain last week amid a shortage of news and light holiday trading. The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 0.76%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 added 0.49%. The Nasdaq Composite index advanced 0.32% for...

Monday, December 18, 2023

Markets reacted positively last week to cooler inflation and the idea of potential rate cuts next year, adding to the gains of the market’s year-end rally. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 2.92%, while the Standard &...

Monday, December 11, 2023

A late-week, two-day rally left stocks higher, adding to November’s gains as the last month of trading for 2023 began. The Dow Jones Industrial Average was flat (+0.01%), while the Standard & Poor’s 500 gained 0.21%. The...

Monday, December 4, 2023

A Friday rally turned an otherwise mixed week for stocks into a solid performance. The Dow Jones Industrial Average picked up 2.42%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 gained 0.77%. The Nasdaq Composite index rose 0.38% for the...

Wednesday, November 29, 2023

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has recently unveiled the updated income tax brackets, standard deduction, and retirement plan contribution limits for the 2024 tax year. While the deadline to file your 2024 taxes may be a way off,...

Monday, November 27, 2023

Investor enthusiasm for stocks remained strong last week, buoyed by declining bond yields in a holiday-abbreviated trading week. The Dow Jones Industrial Average picked up 1.27%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 gained 1.00%. The...

Monday, November 20, 2023

Stocks extended their November rally last week as investors cheered lower-than-forecast inflation data. The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 1.94%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 added 2.24%. The Nasdaq Composite index rose...

Monday, November 13, 2023

A powerful Friday rally left stocks higher last week, extending the market’s early November gains. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 0.65%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 advanced 1.31%. The Nasdaq Composite index...

Thursday, November 9, 2023

Selling your business is a monumental milestone, one that should ideally bring you financial security and the satisfaction of reaping the rewards of your hard work. During this transaction it is crucial to be aware of the taxman....

Tuesday, November 7, 2023

First, let’s explore the premise of planning. Financial planning is an essential aspect of achieving long-term goals and securing your vision of financial freedom. Planning often involves setting clear objectives, managing income....

Monday, November 6, 2023

Stocks ripped higher last week on a dramatic retreat in bond yields triggered by easing inflation and a slowing labor market. The Dow Jones Industrial Average jumped 5.07%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 surged 5.85%. The...

Monday, October 30, 2023

Amid a busy week of corporate earnings reports, stocks slumped on cautious earnings guidance, fears of higher interest rates, and growing anxiety over the increasing amount of Treasury bonds and notes coming to market. The Dow Jones...

Wednesday, October 25, 2023

Ever dreamed about seeing your beloved business flourish under the care of someone close? Perhaps a star employee or even a family member? The pride and joy of watching your legacy continue within the hands of trusted insiders is an...

Monday, October 23, 2023

Rising bond yields and uncertainty over whether this was the close of the Fed’s rate-hike cycle dragged markets lower last week despite solid corporate earnings results. The Dow Jones Industrial Average sank 1.61%, while the...

Monday, October 16, 2023

Stocks ended mixed last week amid the outbreak of hostilities in the Middle East and higher-than-expected inflation data. The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 0.20%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 rose 0.45%. But the Nasdaq...

Tuesday, October 10, 2023

In the cryptic world of investing, there are few wizards more revered than Warren Buffett, the Oracle of Omaha. He once conjured the phrase, "Be fearful when others are greedy and greedy when others are fearful." As the fog of...

Monday, October 2, 2023

Rising bond yields and government shutdown fears left stocks in mostly negative territory for the week. The Dow Jones Industrial Average lost 1.34%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 slipped 0.74%. The Nasdaq Composite index was...

Monday, September 25, 2023

Rising bond yields and fears of a government shutdown hammered stocks last week, with technology shares bearing the brunt of the retreat. The Dow Jones Industrial Average lost 1.89%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 dropped 2.93%...

Monday, September 18, 2023

Stocks ended the week roughly where they began as investors digested a mixed set of new economic data. The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 0.12%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 slipped 0.16%. The Nasdaq Composite index fell...

Monday, September 11, 2023

Concerns that the Fed may raise interest rates soured investor sentiment, sending stocks lower in a holiday-shortened trading week. The Dow Jones Industrial Average slipped 0.75%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 declined 1.29%....

Tuesday, September 5, 2023

Falling bond yields–spurred by weak economic data–helped lift stocks to weekly gains. The Dow Jones Industrial Average advanced 1.43%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 gained 2.50%. The Nasdaq Composite index...

Monday, August 28, 2023

Stocks fluctuated last week, jostled by fitful bond yields and headline news, before ending strongly following Fed Chair Powell’s comments on the monetary outlook. The Dow Jones Industrial Average slipped 0.45%, while the...

Monday, August 21, 2023

Stocks extended their August declines last week as higher yields and weak economic data out of China soured investor sentiment. The Dow Jones Industrial Average lost 2.21%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 retreated 2.11%. The...

Monday, July 31, 2023

A Friday surge pushed stocks solidly into positive territory last week, ignited by cooling in an inflation gauge closely tracked by the Federal Reserve. The Dow Jones Industrial Average advanced 0.66%, while the Standard &...

Monday, July 10, 2023

Rising concerns about further rate hikes sent stocks lower to kick off the second half of trading.The Dow Jones Industrial Average lost 1.96%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 retreated 1.16%. The Nasdaq Composite index...

Thursday, June 29, 2023

The landscape of health savings account (HSA) contributions is changing, making 2024 a significant year for individuals and families alike. The IRS recently announced a substantial increase in HSA contribution limits in response to the...

Monday, June 26, 2023

Stocks took a breather last week as investors digested the previous week’s surge and the month-to-date solid gains.The Dow Jones Industrial Average lost 1.67%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 fell 1.39%. The Nasdaq...

Tuesday, June 20, 2023

All businesses inevitably face a significant change - the transfer of responsibilities. Whether it's a change in ownership to a family member, or assigning key departmental tasks to a trusted employee or a proficient next-level manager...

Monday, June 19, 2023

Stocks climbed last week as reassuring inflation data boosted investor hopes that the rate-hike cycle was nearing an end amid fresh economic data pointing to continued economic resilience.The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 1.25%,...

Thursday, June 15, 2023

Successful business owners, like you, often possess an innovative mindset that sets you apart from the crowd. Others marvel at your entrepreneurial prowess, pondering over your secret recipe for success.This distinct "secret sauce"...

Wednesday, June 14, 2023

What is a bull market, and more importantly, who determines if we are in one?Technically speaking, a bull market is defined as a 20% gain in a stock market index, such as the Standard & Poor's 500, from a closing low.So are we in one?...

Tuesday, June 13, 2023

Business owners, do you realize that the key to your financial security could well lie beyond your business operations? Amidst fluctuating market trends, creating an external wealth portfolio becomes not just a smart move, but a...

Monday, June 12, 2023

A late-week rally sent stocks into positive territory, with the S&P 500 index closing just shy of the 4,300 mark.The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 0.34%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 added 0.39%. The Nasdaq Composite...

Monday, June 5, 2023

Stocks surged higher in the closing days of a holiday-shortened trading week, ignited by a political resolution on raising the debt ceiling and a strong employment report. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 2.02%, while the Standard...

Tuesday, May 30, 2023

Markets moved in sync last week with perceived movement in debt ceiling talks, weakening early in the week and then surging on news of progress. A solid quarterly report and guidance from a mega-cap technology company helped with...

Monday, May 22, 2023

Stocks rallied last week, propelled by growing optimism over reaching a deal on raising the debt ceiling and avoiding a technical debt default by the U.S.The Dow Jones Industrial Average edged 0.38% higher, while the Standard &...

Monday, May 15, 2023

Stocks were mixed last week as good inflation news was offset by mounting debt ceiling concerns and rekindled regional banking fears.The Dow Jones Industrial Average lost 1.11%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 slipped 0.29%. The...

Monday, May 1, 2023

Strong earnings from several mega-cap technology companies offset renewed regional banking jitters and weak economic data, leaving stocks higher for the week.The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 0.86%, while the Standard &...

Monday, April 24, 2023

Stocks remained resilient last week amid mixed earnings reports, hawkish Fed-speak, and lingering recession fears, closing out the five trading days with small losses.The Dow Jones Industrial Average slipped 0.23%, while the Standard &...

Monday, April 17, 2023

The combination of an improving inflation outlook resulted in a week of uneven, albeit positive, performance, in which cyclical and financial stocks rallied while technology, real estate, and utilities lagged. The Dow Jones...

Tuesday, April 11, 2023

The death of a co-owner is a tragedy for many reasons. For many co-owned businesses, co-owners are also close friends. What makes the suffering worse is when the death of a co-owner hurts the business in the months and years after the...

Monday, April 10, 2023

Stocks ended a shortened week of trading mixed amid revived recession fears on Wall Street triggered by weak economic data. The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 0.63%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 slipped 0.10%. The Nasdaq...

Thursday, March 30, 2023

What is MarylandSaves? First, let’s introduce you to MarylandSaves. This program was established under a Maryland law that requires certain employers to facilitate an employee’s ability to save for retirement through payroll...

Monday, March 27, 2023

Modest gains in major market indices masked sharp volatility amid the uncertainty arising from mixed messages emanating from public officials and revived banking fears. The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 1.18%, while the Standard...

Monday, March 20, 2023

Amid the reverberations of two U.S. banks being taken over by regulators and the spread of uncertainty to European banks, stocks trended higher last week on the strength of the technology sector.The Dow Jones Industrial Average was...

Tuesday, March 14, 2023

We are writing to share our perspectives on the recent financial market volatility that has transpired, particularly in the banking industry, after the collapse of Silicon Valley Bank and Signature Bank and to offer guidance to...

Monday, March 13, 2023

Stocks tumbled last week as investors reconsidered their interest rate expectations after Fed Chair Powell’s Congressional testimony that rates may need to go higher. Stocks also were rattled when a west coast bank was placed...

Monday, March 6, 2023

A late-week surge, triggered by reassuring Fed-speak, propelled stocks higher last week.The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 1.75%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 advanced 1.90%. The Nasdaq Composite index picked up 2.58% for...

Monday, February 27, 2023

Concerns over a firmer monetary policy were heightened by fresh economic data, touching off a climb in bond yields and a slide in stock prices last week.The Dow Jones Industrial Average skidded 2.99%, while the Standard & Poor’s...

Wednesday, February 22, 2023

Would it surprise you that the U.K. stock market is hitting new all-time highs and several other European markets are either at new highs or approaching new all-time highs?It seems like only a few months ago, European economies...

Monday, February 20, 2023

Growing concerns about further interest rate hikes, prompted by fresh economic data, reversed early-week gains and left stocks mixed for the week.The Dow Jones Industrial Average slipped 0.13%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500...

Monday, February 13, 2023

Stocks drifted lower as a week of mixed earnings reports and resurgent worries over Fed monetary policy dragged on investor sentiment. The Dow Jones Industrial Average slipped 0.17%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 declined...

Monday, February 13, 2023

Would it surprise you that the U.K. stock market is hitting new all-time highs and several other European markets are either at new highs or approaching new all-time highs?It seems like only a few months ago, European economies...

Thursday, February 9, 2023

Every year, the Super Bowl is not just a game, it’s an event that brings together millions of fans, advertisers, and businesses. The Super Bowl has become much more than just a football game, it’s a massive financial...

Wednesday, February 8, 2023

The stock market can provide some head-scratching moments, which is why I like Warren Buffet’s quote, “...don’t watch the market closely.”Stocks have been strong this year, and they rallied sharply before...

Tuesday, February 7, 2023

In today's fast-paced and uncertain world, financial stress and anxiety are becoming increasingly common among employees. This stress not only affects their mental and physical health but also impacts their productivity and overall job...

Monday, February 6, 2023

Stocks were mixed last week following better-than-expected corporate reports and increasing optimism over a slowdown in interest rates.The Dow Jones Industrial Average edged lower, slipping -0.15%. The Standard & Poor’s 500 rose...

Wednesday, February 1, 2023

"Is the bear market over?"That's a question I've been asked a number of times in recent weeks. And my answer is the same, "Let's give it a little time."But people are quick to remind me that stocks are off to a good start in 2023,...

Monday, January 30, 2023

Stocks added to their early 2023 gains amid a busy stream of mixed corporate earnings results and conflicting economic data.The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 1.81%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 added 2.47%. The Nasdaq...

Monday, January 23, 2023

Stocks showed mixed results last week as recession fears resurfaced in response to weak economic data and a tepid start to a new corporate earnings season.  The Dow Jones Industrial Average skidded 2.70%, while the Standard &...

Saturday, January 21, 2023

Your daily responsibilities as a successful business owner can make planning for a successful future seem impossible. But with the right process, you may find that this planning is both achievable and a means to give you even more time...

Thursday, January 19, 2023

Occasionally, successful business owners will say to themselves and their advisors, “I’m too old to start a multi-year plan for my future.” In many respects, this mindset is similar to saying, “I’m too old...

Tuesday, January 17, 2023

The December inflation report had some encouraging news. It showed that consumer prices trended lower for the month, but more importantly, it confirmed that overall prices have been trending lower for the past six months.Now the ball...

Thursday, January 12, 2023

Secure Act 2.0: A Closer Look at the Proposed Expansion of the Secure ActThe Secure Act (Setting Every Community Up for Retirement Enhancement Act) was a law that was passed in 2019 with the goal of improving retirement security for...

Monday, January 9, 2023

A strong Friday rally triggered by fresh signs of moderating inflation pushed stocks into positive territory to begin the new year. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 1.46%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 advanced 1.45%....

Tuesday, January 3, 2023

Like any investment vehicle, 401(k) plans also come with fees that can eat into your investment returns. Understanding these fees is important for maximizing the performance of your 401(k) and ensuring that you are getting the ...

Tuesday, January 3, 2023

In a holiday-shortened week, erratic trading left stocks marginally down for the week.The Dow Jones Industrial Average lost 0.17%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 slipped 0.14%. The Nasdaq Composite index fell 0.30%. The MSCI...

Sunday, January 1, 2023

The start of a new year is a great time to reflect on the past and set goals for the future. One important area to focus on is your finances. Taking control of your finances can help you feel more secure and empowered, and it's never...

Thursday, December 29, 2022

When it comes to 401(k) plans, there are two main types of fiduciaries: 3(38) fiduciaries and 3(21) fiduciaries. These terms refer to the specific sections of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) that outline the duties...

Monday, December 19, 2022

Hawkish comments by the Fed and weak economic data heightened investors’ recession concerns and sent stocks lower last week.The Dow Jones Industrial Average lost 1.66%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 retreated 2.08%. The...

Thursday, December 15, 2022

The financial markets are complex systems. They can move from one event to the next so quickly that it's hard to know what’s driving prices.For example, look at the roundtrip oil prices in the chart below.Oil prices surged to...

Monday, December 12, 2022

Recession fears and concerns that the Fed may consider a longer rate-hike cycle sent stocks lower for the week.The Dow Jones Industrial Average dropped 2.77%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 fell 3.37%. The Nasdaq Composite index...

Monday, December 5, 2022

Stocks ended higher last week as investors navigated the crosscurrents of a potential easing in future rate hikes and continued strength in the labor market.The Dow Jones Industrial Average edged 0.24% higher, while the Standard &...

Monday, November 28, 2022

Growing optimism that the Fed may be ready to ease future interest rate hikes sent stocks higher in a quiet trading week.The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 1.78%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 added 1.53%. The Nasdaq...

Monday, November 21, 2022

The stock market edged lower last week as it digested a crosscurrent of conflicting economic data and contrasting comments from Fed officials.The Dow Jones Industrial Average was flat (-0.01%), while the Standard & Poor’s 500...

Monday, November 14, 2022

A cooling inflation number ignited a powerful rally on Thursday, sending stocks to strong gains for the week.The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 4.15%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 added 5.90%. The Nasdaq Composite index...

Monday, November 7, 2022

Hawkish comments by Fed Chair Jerome Powell, following the announcement of another 75 basis points interest rate hike last week, cast a pall over financial markets, sending yields higher and stocks lower.The Dow Jones Industrial...

Tuesday, November 1, 2022

The Internal Revenue Service has released new limits for the coming year. After months of high inflation and financial uncertainty, some of these cost-of-living-based adjustments have reached near-record levels.Individual Retirement...

Monday, October 31, 2022

Stocks overcame poor earnings results from some of America’s largest companies to post gains last week as investors cheered positive earnings surprises, easing inflation and a rebound in economic growth.The Dow Jones Industrial...

Tuesday, October 11, 2022

A powerful two-day stock rebound cemented a positive week for investors as a new trading month began.The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 1.99%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 added 1.51%. The Nasdaq Composite index increased 0...

Tuesday, October 4, 2022

A bear market is defined as a decline of 20% or more from the most recent peak. As of the time of writing, we’re in a bear market in many equity markets around the world. But we know...

Monday, October 3, 2022

Rising recession fears and uncertainty in the bond and currency markets sent stocks to new 2022 lows last week.The Dow Jones Industrial Average declined 2.92%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 slumped 2.91%. The Nasdaq Composite...

Wednesday, September 28, 2022

Wall Street is always searching for a hero to embrace or a villain to blame. And right now, Fed Chair Jerome Powell is the villain.After the September Fed meeting, Powell said interest rates may be heading higher for longer than...

Monday, September 26, 2022

Last week, Fed Chair Powell said the U.S. would not tame inflation without economic pain. This week heightened recession fears and sent stocks broadly lower.The Dow Jones Industrial Average dropped 4.00%, while the Standard &...

Tuesday, September 20, 2022

Believe me, everyone on Wall Street wants inflation to go away, or at least shrink back to below 2%, a level we enjoyed not so long ago.But Tuesday's Consumer Price Index report showed it might be some time before we see 2% again....

Monday, September 19, 2022

A hotter-than-expected inflation report sent stocks sharply lower last week as investors faced the prospect of more aggressive interest rate hikes by the Federal Reserve for perhaps a longer period.The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell...

Monday, September 12, 2022

In a holiday-shortened week of trading, stocks posted healthy gains despite more tough talk on monetary policy from Fed officials.The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 2.66%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 gained 3.65%. The...

Tuesday, September 6, 2022

The overhang of Fed Chair Powell’s Jackson Hole speech the previous week carried over into last week as investors recalibrated stock valuations amid a seemingly more assertive monetary policy stance.The Dow Jones Industrial...

Monday, August 29, 2022

A comprehensive sell-off on Friday following comments by Fed Chair Jerome Powell drove stocks to losses for the week.The Dow Jones Industrial Average tumbled 4.22%, while the Standard & Poor's 500 dropped 4.04%. The Nasdaq Composite...

Monday, August 22, 2022

Stocks tumbled on Friday, sending stocks to a weekly loss after an otherwise quiet August week of trading.The Dow Jones Industrial Average slipped -0.16%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 lost 1.21%. The Nasdaq Composite index...

Thursday, August 18, 2022

At their core, successful business owners like you are builders. Whether you founded your business, or purchased one and took it to new heights, doing it yourself runs through your veins. Why, then, would you need...

Wednesday, August 17, 2022

Inheriting a retirement account from an IRA owner or someone with a qualified retirement account comes with quite a few confusing rules to follow. Learn which rules apply to you, so you can make an informed decision about what to do...

Tuesday, August 16, 2022

When times are tough, many employers make the difficult decision to furlough or lay off employees to reduce costs. Then, when circumstances improve, they eagerly bring those affected back into the company and its 401(k) plan. Adding...

Monday, August 15, 2022

An improving inflation outlook buoyed investors’ spirits last week, helping lift stocks to solid gains.The Dow Jones Industrial Average advanced 2.92%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 rose 3.26%. The Nasdaq Composite index...

Wednesday, August 10, 2022

Does waiting 30 days for a government report seem a bit unreasonable? After all, we live in a world of instant messages and real-time quotes. Why should we wait a whole month between updates on the Consumer Price Index to see what's...

Monday, August 8, 2022

Stocks turned in a mixed performance last week as investors struggled with headlines suggesting that the Fed was unlikely to soon ease up on its current monetary tightening policy.The Dow Jones Industrial Average slipped 0.13%, while...

Friday, August 5, 2022

Can grandparents gift to a 529 account?Are you a grandparent who’s always looking for something special to give your grandchildren, whether it’s for a birthday, the holidays, or just because it’s, say,...

Thursday, August 4, 2022

Successful business owners do a lot of things well, and they make it look easy. This is often a sign of well-running processes and years of discipline. However, it can also be a trap for successful business owners who...

Wednesday, August 3, 2022

In the financial world, some weeks are more important than others, and we just lived through a big one. Let's unpack each of the four key stats:The Fed. As expected, the Fed bumped up short-term rates again at its July meeting. But the...

Wednesday, August 3, 2022

An important aspect of growing a successful business Is creating transferable value. Transferable value is what your business is worth to someone else without you at the helm. Whether you plan to retire or die at your desk,...

Monday, August 1, 2022

Undaunted by another Fed rate hike and news of a contracting economy, the stock market rallied last week on better-than-expected corporate earnings.The Dow Jones Industrial Average increased 2.97%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500...

Monday, July 25, 2022

Stocks rallied last week as investor spirits lifted thanks to a better-than-expected start to the second-quarter earnings season.The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 1.95%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 added 2.55%. The...

Monday, June 27, 2022

Prospects of cooling inflation powered a rally in stock prices last week despite growing recession concerns.The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 5.39%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 climbed 6.45%. The Nasdaq Composite index...

Monday, June 13, 2022

A higher-than-expected inflation report triggered a sell-off on Friday, leaving stocks in the red for the week.The Dow Jones Industrial Average lost 4.58%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 dropped 5.05%. The Nasdaq Composite index...

Tuesday, May 31, 2022

Stocks posted solid gains for the week, buoyed by the release of Fed meeting minutes and upbeat earnings from mid-size and discount retailers.The Dow Jones Industrial Average jumped 6.24%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 advanced...

Tuesday, May 24, 2022

Recession fears grew last week following weak earnings reports from major retailers, sending stocks lower. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 2.90%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 lost 3.05%. The Nasdaq Composite index...

Friday, May 20, 2022

We are reaching out to offer some longer-term perspective amid a volatile time for financial markets. While it is difficult to look beyond the immediate challenges confronting markets, it is important to place the current market...

Monday, May 16, 2022

In a volatile trading week, stocks extended their losses as economic growth and inflation concerns soured investor sentiment. The Dow Jones Industrial Average dropped 2.14%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 lost 2.41%. The Nasdaq...

Friday, May 13, 2022

We are pleased to share our latest U.S. Economic Dashboard. Our dashboard is updated quarterly and offers a high-level perspective of where we currently stand in the economic cycle based on the status of twelve economic sub-cycles...

Thursday, May 12, 2022

Few investors should have been surprised when the Federal Reserve raised interest rates after its May meeting. Throughout April, Fed Chair Jerome Powell and several Fed Governors talked about the need to keep raising short-term rates...

Monday, May 9, 2022

With the Fed in focus, the markets experienced wide price swings over the course of last week, as technology companies led the market lower. The Dow Jones Industrial Average slipped 0.24%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500...

Monday, May 2, 2022

On Friday, a sharp sell-off sent major stock market indices into negative territory for the week, capping a volatile close to April. The Dow Jones Industrial Average declined 2.47%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 tumbled 3.27%....

Wednesday, April 27, 2022

The strongest businesses often have written plans for how to address unexpected events and mitigate risk, known as business continuity instructions. Their owners ask questions like, “What happens if a co-owner or I die?”,...

Tuesday, April 26, 2022

When it comes to saving for retirement, you’ve got options. You can participate in a retirement plan at work, open an IRA or personal savings account, or use a mixture of all three. The options you choose will determine when...

Monday, April 25, 2022

Hawkish comments from Fed Chair Jerome Powell overshadowed many largely positive earnings results, sending stocks lower for the week. The Dow Jones Industrial Average declined 1.86%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 dropped 2.75%...

Friday, April 22, 2022

It’s not uncommon to hear the phrase “Don’t take it personally” in terms of business decisions. But when you own a business, it’s difficult—if not impossible—to not take business decisions...

Monday, April 18, 2022

Stocks posted losses in a holiday-shortened trading week as the first-quarter earnings season kicked off and investors digested new inflation data. The Dow Jones Industrial Average declined 0.78%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500...

Monday, April 4, 2022

Stocks spent last week digesting the sharp gains of previous weeks as investors assessed a tightening yield curve, the war in Ukraine, and an uncertain outlook for economic growth and inflation. The Dow Jones Industrial Average...

Monday, March 28, 2022

With growing confidence in the economy’s resilience, stocks posted another week of solid gains. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 0.31%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 advanced 1.79%. The Nasdaq Composite index picked...

Saturday, March 26, 2022

Successful businesses require many types of employees to succeed. But it’s vital to know which employees are key employees, which are important employees, and how to properly motivate the latter group. Today, we’ll share a...

Wednesday, March 23, 2022

E pluribus unum—out of many, one—is a concept that runs deeply in the blood of many people, especially successful business owners. You likely expect that your co-owners, advisors, and employees all work toward a common...

Monday, March 21, 2022

With the Fed embarking on a new course of monetary tightening amid continued fighting in Ukraine, stocks staged a powerful, broad-based rally last week. The Dow Jones Industrial Average jumped 5.49%, while the Standard & Poor’s...

Monday, March 14, 2022

Listen to War, Oil & Inflation Podcast Intensifying hostilities in Ukraine continued to unsettle markets, as investors grappled with the war’s impact on the global economies. The Dow Jones Industrial Average lost 1.99%, while...

Monday, February 28, 2022

Investors rode a rollercoaster of emotions as rising hostilities at the Russian-Ukrainian border sent stocks sharply lower before a powerful late-week rally erased early losses. The Dow Jones Industrial Average was flat (-0.06%),...

Wednesday, February 23, 2022

No matter how you define business success, one thing is constant: When everyone is rowing in the same direction, it’s much easier to reach the destination. As you grow your business, you’ll likely find that the stronger...

Tuesday, February 22, 2022

Offering a qualified retirement plan comes with a good deal of responsibility—personal responsibility—that plan sponsors and advisors must follow to avoid lawsuits or regulatory sanctions. This article will help you...

Friday, February 18, 2022

Simply put, an ETF,¹ or exchange-traded fund, is a basket of securities that trades on an exchange, much like a stock. ETFs are generally highly transparent—their underlying holdings are fully disclosed daily—and are...

Thursday, February 17, 2022

Your 401(k) plan offers several investment options, including target-date funds (TDFs) and target-risk funds (TRFs). Although they may sound mysterious, they’re actually intended to make managing your investments easier by...

Wednesday, February 16, 2022

What does a retirement plan committee do? Plan sponsors have a fiduciary duty to act prudently and solely in the best interests of participants. To help carry out these duties, many form retirement plan committees to oversee their...

Monday, February 14, 2022

A hot inflation print and the growing concern of a Russian invasion of Ukraine sent stocks tumbling late in the week, leaving major indices lower for the five-trading days. The Dow Jones Industrial Average skidded 1.00%, while the...

Monday, February 7, 2022

Stocks managed to gain ground last week as investors turned their focus to corporate earnings. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 1.05%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 gained 1.55%. The Nasdaq Composite index picked up 2.38%...

Thursday, February 3, 2022

Running a successful business is complex per se. Adding the element of “family” to a business often creates more complexities, especially as the business grows. Lifelong family bonds and expectations can run headlong into...

Monday, January 31, 2022

An exceptionally volatile week, marked by wide intraday price swings, whipsawed investors with stocks ending higher following a surge to the upside on the final trading day of the week. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 1.34%,...

Monday, January 24, 2022

Stocks extended their January retreat as worries over inflation and rising bond yields continued to exert downward pressure on prices. The Dow Jones Industrial Average slid 4.58%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 sank 5.68%. The...

Friday, January 21, 2022

Successful business owners may face a conundrum as they pursue success. “Though my competitors do something similar, they don’t do it the way I do it. So, how do I know the right way to achieve success,...

Thursday, January 20, 2022

In today’s labor market, attracting and retaining top talent often requires thinking beyond traditional benefits offerings. In order to set your compensation and benefits package apart from your competitors, you may want to...

Tuesday, January 18, 2022

An employer’s 401(k) plan is one of the most effective ways to save for retirement. And while many individuals are familiar with the potential tax benefits they receive by participating, there’s another important, but less...

Tuesday, January 18, 2022

Deteriorating investor enthusiasm for high-valuation growth companies and a mixed start to the fourth-quarter earnings season made for a volatile week. The Dow Jones Industrial Average lost 0.88%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500...

Wednesday, January 12, 2022

If you’ve reached your 50s, you may find that you’re falling short of your retirement goals. Yet you may also have a little more disposable income than you used to. The federal government realizes all this, too, and...

Tuesday, January 11, 2022

Successful business owners constantly strive for growth. And when everything’s humming along, it can be easy to think the good times will last forever. However, it’s crucial to protect yourself, your company, and your...

Monday, January 10, 2022

A jump in yields sparked by a more aggressive sounding Federal Reserve sent the market lower to start the new year. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 0.29%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 declined 1.87%. The Nasdaq...

Saturday, January 8, 2022

If cash is king, then cash flow is the kingmaker. Cash flow can have a multiplier effect in terms of achieving your planning goals for a successful future. Often, increasing cash flow requires strong performances from key employees....

Monday, January 3, 2022

Stocks closed out the year on a mostly positive note, adding to the year’s gains as concerns about the economic issues of Omicron infections receded. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 1.08%, while the Standard & Poor’s...

Wednesday, December 29, 2021

403(b) vs. 401(k) vs. 457(b)—what's the difference? If you’ve changed jobs during your career, chances are you’ve participated in a few employer-sponsored retirement plans. Some may be 401(k)s, others might be...

Tuesday, December 28, 2021

Success is rarely linear. As a business owner, it’s important to both acknowledge that fact and create plans that can provide short-term results while having long-term impacts. Today, we’ll show you four areas in which...

Monday, December 20, 2021

Stock prices retreated last week as global central banks joined the Federal Reserve in taking steps to tighten monetary policy. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 1.68%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 dropped 1.94%. The...

Monday, December 13, 2021

A more benign reassessment of the possible economic risk posed by Omicron sent stocks sharply higher last week. The Dow Jones Industrial Average picked up 4.02%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 advanced 3.82%. The Nasdaq...

Wednesday, December 8, 2021

As the year winds down, it’s important for business owners to raise their awareness of last year’s performance. Knowing what you did well, along with where you struggled, is crucial to planning for future success. Today,...

Monday, December 6, 2021

Stocks took investors on a wild ride last week as the Omicron variant and Fed comments upended market expectations. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 0.91%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 stumbled 1.22%. The Nasdaq...

Monday, November 29, 2021

News of a new, highly virulent COVID variant triggered a market sell-off on Friday, sending stocks into negative territory for the week.The Dow Jones Industrial Average slid 1.97%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 slumped 2...

Monday, November 22, 2021

Stocks were mixed last week in choppy trading as investors battled the crosscurrents of good economic data and a troubling rise in COVID-19 infections globally.The Dow Jones Industrial Average slid 1.38%, while the Standard &...

Friday, November 19, 2021

You see it in prices at the grocery store and the gas station. You feel it in your monthly budget. So why don’t the financial markets seem too concerned about inflation?Remember, financial markets are considered...

Tuesday, November 16, 2021

Stocks posted small declines last week as investors digested recent stock market gains and an unexpectedly high inflation read.The Dow Jones Industrial Average slid 0.63%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 retreated 0.31%. The...

Friday, November 12, 2021

Preparing for retirement just got a little more financial wiggle room. This week, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) announced new contribution limits for 2022. Staying put for 2022 are traditional Individual Retirement Accounts...

Monday, November 8, 2021

A Federal Reserve announcement on tapering, a fresh batch of corporate profits, and encouraging economic data lifted stocks to another weekly gain.The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 1.42%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500...

Monday, November 1, 2021

A fresh wave of positive corporate earnings surprises sent markets to new record highs last week.The Dow Jones Industrial Average increased 0.40%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 rose 1.33%. The Nasdaq Composite index picked...

Tuesday, October 26, 2021

Stocks rallied last week on a stream of positive corporate earnings surprises.The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 1.08%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 advanced 1.64%. The Nasdaq Composite index gained 1.29% for the week....

Monday, October 11, 2021

The overhang of bumping against the federal debt ceiling was lifted last week with an agreement to extend the debt ceiling through early December, helping propel stocks to a weekly gain.The Dow Jones Industrial Average increased by 1...

Friday, October 8, 2021

Owning a successful business is a constant exercise in planning. Many successful business owners have already committed to personal financial planning, including investing and providing financial security for themselves and their...

Wednesday, October 6, 2021

Healthcare can be one of the priciest yet essential parts of life’s journey. And yet, many struggle to utilize the financial tools that may help. Take Health Saving Accounts (HSAs), for example.In 2019, 55% of those with HSAs...

Tuesday, October 5, 2021

There’s a famous saying about a hurricane starting from a butterfly flapping its wings on the other side of the world. That “butterfly effect” is certainly happening in terms of the Chinese property market’s...

Monday, October 4, 2021

Higher bond yields and a legislative stalemate in Washington, D.C., added up to losses for the week.The Dow Jones Industrial Average declined 1.36%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 lost 2.21%. The Nasdaq Composite index fell...

Monday, September 27, 2021

Stocks prices were whipsawed last week, dragged initially lower by financial contagion worries and later lifted by a supportive Fed policy statement.The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 0.62%, while the Standard & Poor’s...

Monday, September 20, 2021

Stocks weakened ahead of this week’s Federal Reserve meeting and amid persistent concerns about the Delta variant’s impact on the economy.The Dow Jones Industrial Average was flat (-0.07%), while the Standard &...

Wednesday, September 15, 2021

If you are feeling a bit confused about the direction of inflation, you’re in good company. Some of the best and brightest economists in the country are having a tough time getting their arms around the current inflation trends...

Tuesday, September 14, 2021

The economic impact of COVID-19 has been felt from coast to coast. And, unfortunately for many pre-retirees, it could potentially impact Social Security benefits as well.A new report indicates that if Congress doesn’t take...

Monday, September 13, 2021

The stock market notched its 7th straight month of gains in August, and the Standard & Poor's 500 index has set 53 new highs so far in 2021.1During August, stocks rallied as investors looked past the increased number of COVID-19...

Monday, September 13, 2021

In a quiet week of news, stocks moved lower amid simmering concerns over the Delta variant’s effect on the progress of economic reopening.The Dow Jones Industrial Average declined 2.15%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500...

Wednesday, September 8, 2021

It’s time for your life insurance checkup. September is National Life Insurance Awareness Month, so it’s a great time to review your coverage.1 If you don’t have any life insurance, you’re not alone. Life...

Monday, August 23, 2021

Stocks turned lower last week amid the increasing probability of a Fed tapering, mixed economic data, and growing concerns about the economic impact of the Delta variant.The Dow Jones Industrial Average slumped 1.11%, while the...

Wednesday, August 18, 2021

Are you having a tough time keeping track of inflation's mixed signals? You’re not alone.Consumer prices in July climbed at their fastest rate since August 2008. Worse, producer prices, which can be an indicator of future price...

Tuesday, August 17, 2021

Looking past inflation figures and Delta variant trends, stocks last week found a way to climb higher and set fresh record highs in the process.The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 0.87%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500...

Monday, August 9, 2021

Overcoming jitters about the Delta variant and the reintroduction of mask requirements, stocks climbed higher on strong employment data and a fresh batch of strong corporate earnings.The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 0.78% while...

Tuesday, August 3, 2021

The stock market posted small losses last week despite a very strong showing by corporate America.The Dow Jones Industrial Average slipped 0.36%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 lost 0.37%. The Nasdaq Composite index dropped...

Thursday, July 29, 2021

The news keeps getting better for Social Security recipients.It's now projected that benefits will increase 6.1% in 2022, up from the 4.7% forecast just two months ago. That would be the most significant increase since 1983.1...

Wednesday, July 28, 2021

Corporate earnings season has begun, and the results are turning heads on Wall Street.Of the 120 companies in the S&P 500 index that reported numbers as of Friday, July 23, 89% of them beat the Street’s earnings-per-share...

Monday, July 26, 2021

Overcoming a COVID-related economic growth scare, stocks moved higher amid a week of strong corporate earnings reports.The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 1.08%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 gained 1.96%. The Nasdaq...

Monday, July 12, 2021

Stocks managed small gains as investors wrestled with concerns over economic growth prospects and a rise in COVID-19 infections.The Dow Jones Industrial Average picked up 0.24%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 gained 0.40%....

Tuesday, July 6, 2021

Strong employment reports and rising consumer confidence sent the stock market broadly higher last week.The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 1.02%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 picked up 1.67%. The Nasdaq Composite index...

Tuesday, June 29, 2021

Recently, you may have seen a number of major cryptocurrencies fall thanks to a continuing sell-off that began last week. In fact, over $250 billion was lost in the crypto market alone.1It may be tempting to view this as another...

Monday, June 28, 2021

Stocks reached new all-time highs last week as markets staged a strong rebound from the previous week’s declines.The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 3.44%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 picked up 2.74%. The Nasdaq...

Monday, June 21, 2021

New messaging from the Federal Reserve on interest rates and inflation last week led to a broad retreat in stock prices.The Dow Jones Industrial Average dropped 3.45% while the Standard & Poor’s 500 lost 1.91%. The Nasdaq...

Friday, June 18, 2021

If there is a "silver lining" to all the inflation talk, it may be that Social Security benefits are expected to see a larger-than-normal increase in 2022.Preliminary estimates call for a 4.7% cost-of-living increase (COLA) in Social...

Thursday, June 17, 2021

Recently, you may have seen headlines regarding the Securing a Strong Retirement Act, also referred to as the second version of the SECURE Act, or SECURE Act 2.0.As the bill moves from the House of Representatives to the Senate, many...

Wednesday, June 16, 2021

The real rate of return is an important personal finance concept to understand. It’s the rate of return on your investments after inflation. The real rate of return indicates whether you are gaining or losing purchasing power...

Tuesday, June 15, 2021

Stocks ended the week mixed as investors appeared to shrug off a hotter-than-expected inflation report.The Dow Jones Industrial Average slipped 0.80%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 advanced 0.41%. The Nasdaq Composite...

Monday, June 7, 2021

A strong, but not too strong, employment report sparked a rally on the final day of trading, propelling stocks to a modest gain for the week.The Dow Jones Industrial Average climbed by 0.66%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500...

Tuesday, June 1, 2021

Optimism over the economic reopening and renewed enthusiasm for technology and other high-growth companies powered the stock market higher last week.The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 0.94%, while the Standard & Poor’s...

Tuesday, May 25, 2021

Stock prices fluctuated amid inflation concerns and bargain hunting, leaving stocks mixed for the week.The Dow Jones Industrial Average slipped 0.51%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 dropped 0.43%. The tech-heavy Nasdaq...

Monday, May 17, 2021

A surge in consumer inflation unsettled investors, leading to a turbulent week of trading on Wall Street.The Dow Jones Industrial Average slipped 1.14%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 fell 1.39%. The Nasdaq Composite index...

Thursday, May 13, 2021

What does it mean when two of the most powerful voices in American financial life seem to be saying two different things? In one corner, we have the “Oracle of Omaha,” investor Warren Buffett. As one of the nation’s...

Wednesday, May 12, 2021

The San Diego Padres signed infielder Fernando Tatis, Jr., to a 14-year, $340 million contract roughly one year after the Los Angeles Dodgers inked outfielder Mookie Betts to a 12-year, $365 million deal. That brings the total to 8...

Tuesday, May 11, 2021

Stocks closed mixed last week as signs of continued economic recovery and upbeat earnings helped some sectors while the struggles persisted for high-growth companies.The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 2.67%, while the Standard...

Monday, May 3, 2021

Stocks meandered around a flatline in a busy week of corporate earnings, ending the trading week slightly lower.The Dow Jones Industrial Average slid 0.50%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 was flat (+0.02%). The Nasdaq...

Wednesday, April 28, 2021

Non-fungible tokens, or NFTs, have been the recipient of the latest buzz. NFTs are digital files attached to blockchain codes. If you know anything about digital currencies, you’re probably aware that these blockchain codes are...

Tuesday, April 27, 2021

Now and again, the price action on Wall Street can surprise even the most seasoned investors.Look no further than when President Biden in late April proposed an increase in the tax on capital gains to 39.6% from 20% for those...

Monday, April 26, 2021

The crosscurrents of strong corporate earnings, rising global cases of COVID-19, and the specter of higher capital gains taxes led to a choppy week of trading that left stock prices slightly lower for the week.The Dow Jones Industrial...

Monday, April 19, 2021

Stocks reached record highs last week, riding the tailwind of improving economic data and a strong start to the earnings season.The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 1.18%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 gained 1.37%. The...

Monday, April 12, 2021

Strong economic data and a resurgent technology sector propelled stocks to solid gains last week.The Dow Jones Industrial Average advanced 1.95%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 picked up 2.71%. The tech-heavy Nasdaq...

Wednesday, April 7, 2021

President Joe Biden introduced the much-anticipated American Jobs Plan, which outlines an approach to spend roughly $2.2 trillion on the nation's infrastructure and other projects.As part of the legislative process, the Biden...

Tuesday, April 6, 2021

Weekly Market Insights: S&P 500 Rises Above 4,000 Overcoming a rocky start, stocks rallied into the close of a holiday-shortened week of trading as technology shares staged a powerful recovery and investors reacted positively to...

Wednesday, March 31, 2021

Previously, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) announced that the federal income tax filing due date for individuals for the 2020 tax year had been automatically extended from April 15, 2021, to May 17, 2021.1More time for allHowever,...

Tuesday, March 30, 2021

Inflation has emerged as one of the top financial concerns for investors as they size up the economy for the rest of the year.According to research by Deutsche Bank, Google searches for “inflation” are rising rapidly and...

Monday, March 29, 2021

Weekly Market Insights: Rocky Week Despite Upbeat Signals A rocky week with wide price swings led to mixed results for stocks last week, as investors grappled with anxieties over economic growth and weakness in technology and other...

Monday, March 22, 2021

Weekly Market Insights: Modest Losses After Choppy Week Rising bond yields and improving economic conditions led to a choppy week of trading that ended in modest losses for investors. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 0.46%, while...

Friday, March 19, 2021

Major League Baseball scheduled Opening Day for April 1, but two states have already scored with spring training underway.Every year, spring training divides the 30 MLB teams into two squads. Half of the teams travel to Florida as...

Monday, March 15, 2021

Stocks touched new record highs last week as bond yields steadied, a fiscal relief bill was signed into law, and confidence in a strong economic recovery grew.The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 4.07%, while the Standard &...

Thursday, March 11, 2021

Most people understand that stock prices don't go straight up. But when market volatility increases, the price action can test the mettle of even the most seasoned investor. In recent weeks, stock prices have trended lower with a few...

Tuesday, March 9, 2021

I’m sure you’ve heard that the House recently passed the Senate another round of stimulus to try and counteract the economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. The new stimulus package could narrow income eligibility to...

Monday, March 8, 2021

Stocks were mixed last week as rising bond yields and heightening inflation fears sent stocks on a wild ride, capped by a remarkable Friday afternoon rally.The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 1.82%, while the Standard &...

Thursday, March 4, 2021

One time-tested principle of investing is, "when bond yields move higher, bond prices tend to move lower." Investors are doing a "double take" on the 10-year Treasury yield, which recently topped 1.5% — its highest level in...

Wednesday, March 3, 2021

SPACs Take Center Stage The acronym “SPAC” is showing up more often these days because there is some big money behind the revitalized investment approach. SPAC stands for Special Purpose Acquisition Company, and they are...

Tuesday, March 2, 2021

Changes to Paycheck Protection On Monday, Feb. 22, the White House announced several changes to the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) that went into effect on Wednesday, Feb. 24. These changes are intended to further target “the...

Monday, March 1, 2021

Weekly Market Insights: Rising Bond Yields Diminish Stocks Stocks dropped amid rising long-term bond yields, with sharp declines in high-valuation growth stocks leading the overall market lower. The Dow Jones Industrial Average...

Wednesday, February 24, 2021

It can be easy to overlook the nation’s solid economic fundamentals when the financial media splashes stories every day about an army of amateur traders, short-selling mania, and initial public offerings (IPOs) that double in...

Monday, February 22, 2021

At this time last year, it was still unknown that a deadly global pandemic was on the rise, eventually stalling economic growth and sending crude oil prices into negative territory. But recently, oil prices have surged, with crude...

Monday, February 22, 2021

Weekly Market Insights: Rising Inflation Concerns Rising bond yields dampened investor enthusiasm for high-multiple growth companies last week, sending market averages mostly lower in a holiday-shortened week of trading. The Dow Jones...

Tuesday, February 16, 2021

Weekly Market Insights: Fed Chair Says No Change For Now Stock prices inched higher last week amid declining COVID-19 cases, a pick-up in vaccinations, and progress on a fiscal relief bill. The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 1...

Tuesday, February 9, 2021

Are Value Stocks Poised for a Comeback? Growth stocks have dominated the market for the last decade, led by tech giants and other fast-growing companies. While it's possible this trend may continue, some analysts think that value...

Tuesday, February 9, 2021

GameStop, Reddit, and Market Mania: What You Need to Know Over the course of 11 trading days from January 13 to January 28, 2021, the stock of GameStop, a struggling brick-and-mortar video game retailer, skyrocketed by more than 2...

Monday, February 8, 2021

Weekly Market Insights: Markets Go Back to Basics Stocks notched strong gains last week, paced by a string of solid economic reports and consensus-beating corporate earnings. The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 3.89%, while the...

Monday, February 1, 2021

Weekly Market Insights: Unexpected Trading Rattles Market Despite strong corporate earnings, stock prices closed lower after a volatile week of trading triggered by unprecedented activity in a handful of companies. The Dow Jones...

Tuesday, January 26, 2021

Outlook 2021: Bond Prices The 10-year Treasury yield has climbed higher since the New Year, which means that some bond prices are dropping. You may have seen the headlines that say, “10-Year Yields Over 1%.” For some, the...

Monday, January 25, 2021

Weekly Market Insights: Optimism Stimulates Markets Anticipation of a new fiscal stimulus and improved vaccine distribution powered stocks to fresh record highs last week with technology stocks leading the way. The Dow Jones...

Tuesday, January 19, 2021

Weekly Market Insights: Mixed Reaction from Markets Markets drifted lower last week as uninspired investors digested mixed news on the economic front. The Dow Jones Industrial Average lost 0.91% while the Standard & Poor’s 500...

Monday, January 11, 2021

Weekly Market Insights: Markets Start 2021 on a High Shrugging off COVID-19 infections and the disruption at the Capitol on January 6, stocks powered higher to kick off a new year of trading. The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 1...

Thursday, January 7, 2021

After a bit of political posturing in December, the $900 billion Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021 (2021 CAA) was signed into law by President Trump as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to impact employers and employees...

Monday, January 4, 2021

Stocks moved higher during a holiday-shortened week of trading, capping off a turbulent, but otherwise strong year for equity investors.The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 1.35%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 increased...

Friday, January 1, 2021

Watch Out for These Financial Pitfalls in the New Year As people move through different stages of life, there are new financial opportunities and potential pitfalls around every corner. Here are common money mistakes to watch out for...

Tuesday, December 29, 2020

Transferring Your Family Business As a business owner, you're going to have to decide when will be the right time to step out of the family business and how you'll do it. There are many estate planning tools you can use to transfer...

Monday, December 28, 2020

Sequence Risk: Preparing to Retire in a Down Market "You can't time the market" is an old maxim, but you also might say, "You can't always time retirement." Market losses on the front end of retirement could have an outsize effect on...

Monday, December 21, 2020

Weekly Market Insights: Vaccine Rollout Spurs Markets Stocks climbed higher amid the COVID-19 vaccine rollout and an improving outlook for a fiscal stimulus bill. The Dow Jones Industrial Average, which has lagged all year, gained 0...

Monday, December 14, 2020

Weekly Market Insights: Cases Rise, Stocks Retreat Stocks retreated last week on rising COVID-19 infections and slow progress on an economic relief bill. The Dow Jones Industrial Average dipped 0.57%, while the Standard & Poor’s...

Monday, December 7, 2020

Weekly Market Insights: Is Stimulus Near? Stocks marched higher last week on an improving outlook for the passage of a fiscal stimulus package. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 1.03%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 tacked...

Friday, December 4, 2020

Sharing Your Money Values Can Be Part of Your Legacy Sharing Your Money Values Can Be Part of Your Legacy When it's time to prepare the next generation for a financial legacy, you might want to bring your family members together to...

Thursday, December 3, 2020

Five Tips to Regain Your Retirement Savings Focus in 2021 In early 2020, 61% of U.S. workers surveyed said that retirement planning makes them feel stressed.1 Investor confidence was continually tested as the year wore on, and it's...

Monday, November 30, 2020

Weekly Market Insights: Dow Hits 30,000 Stocks surged last week, ignited by another COVID-19 vaccine announcement, encouraging economic data, and the easing of political uncertainty. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 2.21%, while...

Monday, November 23, 2020

Weekly Market Insights: New Infections Increase Anxiety Despite news of another COVID-19 vaccine candidate, stocks were mixed amid investor anxiety over an increase in new infections and economic lockdowns. The Dow Jones Industrial...

Sunday, November 22, 2020

Coronavirus Vaccines and the Economy As the United States sees a rise in cases of COVID-19 across the nation, news of two promising vaccines out of hundreds being tested has offered a ray of hope for a fatigued world.1 A positive...

Monday, November 16, 2020

News of a COVID-19 vaccine ignited a rally in economically sensitive stocks and a broad retreat in technology companies last week, though enthusiasm was tempered by reports of rising new infections and fresh lockdowns.The Dow Jones...

Monday, November 9, 2020

Stocks soared last week as investors anticipated that a split Congress would raise legislative hurdles to changing corporate taxes and adjusting regulatory oversight of big technology companies.The Dow Jones Industrial Average jumped...

Tuesday, November 3, 2020

Weekly Market Insights: No Stimulus, Stocks Lag Stock prices dropped last week as hopes for a fiscal stimulus bill faded and investors focused on rising COVID-19 infections, here and abroad. The Dow Jones Industrial Average slid 6.47%...

Thursday, October 29, 2020

2021 Limits for IRAs, 401(k)s and More On October 26, the Treasury Department released the 2021 adjusted figures for retirement account savings. Although these adjustments won’t bring any major changes, there are some minor...

Tuesday, October 20, 2020

Weekly Market Insights: A Difficult Week for Stocks Stocks treaded water last week amid fading prospects for a stimulus bill, fears of a second wave of COVID-19 cases, and increasing political and regulatory pressures on Big Tech...

Tuesday, October 13, 2020

Weekly Market Insights: Stocks Rise, Stimulus Uncertain Stocks staged a powerful rally last week, riding a wave of optimism over the prospect of the passage of a new fiscal stimulus bill. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 3.27%,...

Thursday, October 8, 2020

Elections & Markets Report Presidential elections are one of the grandest stages for political theatre. In the coming weeks, much will be written, and many predictions will be made, about who will win the upcoming election and the...

Wednesday, October 7, 2020

The Markets (third quarter through September 30, 2020) July kicked off the third quarter with a bang as stocks surged throughout much of the month. Investors were encouraged by solid employment growth, a rise in personal income and...

Tuesday, October 6, 2020

Stocks advanced last week, propelled by hopes that legislators may reach an agreement for a new fiscal stimulus package and optimism generated by a few corporate deal announcements and initial public offerings.The Dow Jones Industrial...

Wednesday, September 30, 2020

In theory, investors understand that stock market corrections are part of the investing process. But experiencing a setback—like the one we’ve witnessed in the past four weeks—can raise a lot of shoulda, woulda,...

Tuesday, September 29, 2020

Stocks were mixed last week as worries that stretched from Washington D.C., where prospects of a new fiscal stimulus bill dimmed, to Europe, which saw an increase of new COVID-19 cases.The Dow Jones Industrial Average declined 1.75%,...

Wednesday, September 23, 2020

Five Investment Tasks to Tackle by Year-End Market turbulence in 2020 may have wreaked havoc on your investment goals for the year. It probably also highlighted the importance of periodically reviewing your investment portfolio to...

Tuesday, September 22, 2020

Stocks slipped as the technology sector remained under pressure and a mid-week announcement by the Federal Reserve failed to inspire investors.The Dow Jones Industrial Average declined 0.03%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500...

Wednesday, September 16, 2020

Stocks traveled a volatile path last week as investors appeared concerned about the upcoming elections, an uncertain economy, and more delays with additional fiscal stimulus.The Dow Jones Industrial Average slid 1.66%, while the...

Wednesday, September 9, 2020

The Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA), one of the most widely followed stock market indices, has made some key changes to its starting lineup.Salesforce.com, Amgen Inc.and Honeywell International Inc. have replaced Exxon Mobil Corp....

Tuesday, September 8, 2020

A late week sell-off sent stocks broadly lower as investors took some profits after stocks reached all-time highs earlier in the week. The Dow Jones Industrial Average slid 1.82%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 slumped 2.31%....

Tuesday, September 1, 2020

Stocks advanced relentlessly last week on positive COVID-19 developments, encouraging economic data, and a supportive policy shift in the Fed’s approach to its target inflation rate.The Dow Jones Industrial Average increased by...

Wednesday, August 26, 2020

Stocks powered to another week of gains as the S&P 500 and Nasdaq Composite set multiple new record highs along the way.The Dow Jones Industrial Average was essentially unchanged while the Standard & Poor’s 500 rose by 0...

Wednesday, August 26, 2020

Right now, many Americans are worried about their financial health due to the impact COVID-19 has had on the country. Adding to these concerns were July's consumer prices— excluding food and energy—which rose at the...

Monday, August 24, 2020

Two high-profile companies—Apple and Tesla—have announced stock splits in the past few weeks, which makes it a great time to discuss what’s involved when a company announces a stock split.Remember, any companies...

Tuesday, August 18, 2020

Stock prices drifted higher in an otherwise quiet news week, as a slowdown in new COVID-19 cases outweighed a Congressional impasse on a new fiscal-spending measure.The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 1.81%, while the Standard...

Tuesday, August 11, 2020

Overlooking stalled efforts by Congress to pass a new fiscal stimulus bill, stocks marched higher last week with the Dow Jones Industrials leading the way and the NASDAQ Composite setting multiple fresh record highs.The Dow Jones...

Friday, August 7, 2020

Could You Be Responsible for Your Parents' Nursing Home Bills? In 26 states (and Puerto Rico), laws generally hold children financially responsible for certain debts of their parents. These laws are referred to as filial responsibility...

Wednesday, August 5, 2020

One of my favorite Wall Street quotes is from Mark Twain, who said:“October: This is one of the peculiarly dangerous months to speculate in stocks. The others are July, January, September, April, November, May, March, June,...

Tuesday, August 4, 2020

Stocks were mixed last week amid a busy week of earnings, some troubling economic data, and seemingly little progress on a new fiscal stimulus package.The Dow Jones Industrial Average slipped 0.16%, while the Standard &...

Tuesday, July 28, 2020

Stocks slipped in the final days of trading last week on higher jobless claims and rising tensions in the U.S.-China relationship. The Dow Jones Industrial Average lost 0.76%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 dipped 0.28%. The...

Friday, July 24, 2020

Lately, it can feel like each day brings a new headline about fluctuating market behavior. But amid the ups and downs of 2020, there may be some potential good news on the horizon. On July 16, 2020, the interest rate for a 30-year...

Wednesday, July 22, 2020

Every few months, you may hear the phrase “we’re entering earnings season” as you read financial news.But what exactly is “earnings season” and why is it important to Wall Street?Earnings season is the...

Tuesday, July 21, 2020

Stocks were mixed last week as investors reacted to positive economic data, progress on a COVID-19 vaccine, and the continued nationwide increase in COVID-19 cases.The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 2.29%, while the Standard...

Friday, July 17, 2020

What is a buy-sell agreement? Business succession tool Events like the death, disability, or retirement of an owner don't have to mean the end of the business. Business succession planning can provide for an orderly transition of...

Wednesday, July 15, 2020

If you've lost your job, or are changing jobs, you may be wondering what to do with your 401(k) plan account. It's important to understand your options. What will I be entitled to? If you leave your job (voluntarily or involuntarily),...

Tuesday, July 14, 2020

Stock prices notched solid gains last week, looking past an increase in COVID-19 cases and any potential economic concerns raised by the trend.The Dow Jones Industrial Average increased by 0.96%, while the Standard & Poor’s...

Wednesday, July 8, 2020

In a holiday-shortened week, stock prices turned higher as encouraging economic data outweighed an increase in COVID-19 cases and a rollback in economic re-openings.The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 3.25%, while the Standard &...

Thursday, July 2, 2020

The Markets (second quarter through June 30, 2020) Stocks rebounded from a dismal March by posting their best monthly returns since 1987, as investors were encouraged by the expectation of additional government stimulus programs and...

Tuesday, June 30, 2020

A jump in COVID-19 cases dampened investor enthusiasm last week, sending stock prices lower on worries that rising infections could derail the economic recovery. The Dow Jones Industrial Average slumped 3.31%, while the Standard &...

Tuesday, June 23, 2020

Stocks moved higher last week on news of more Federal Reserve market support and diminished concerns that new COVID-19 cases might lead to another economic shutdown.The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 1.04%, while the Standard &...

Monday, June 22, 2020

No matter how careful you are in running your business, accidents happen. And no matter how big or small your business, you'll have to plan for these and other risks if you want your business to thrive. One way to do this is with...

Tuesday, June 16, 2020

Investor sentiment turned negative last week, amid an increasing number of COVID-19 cases in states where reopening has been underway as well as a subdued economic forecast from the Federal Reserve. The Dow Jones Industrial Average...

Tuesday, June 9, 2020

A positive jobs report sent stocks soaring last Friday, capping a solid week as evidence of a global economic recovery outweighed concerns over civil unrest and tensions with China.The Dow Jones Industrial Average jumped 6.81%, while...

Friday, June 5, 2020

The first part of 2020 was rocky, but there should be better days ahead. Taking a close look at your finances may give you the foundation you need to begin moving forward. Mid-year is an ideal time to do so, because the planning...

Thursday, June 4, 2020

Listen on Apple Podcasts HERE In this week's episode of The Trusted Advisor Show, the entire crew gets together to launch an exciting new 6-Part Series called "The 6 Key Elements of Business Continuity Success". During this powerful...

Wednesday, June 3, 2020

As states cautiously begin the process of relaxing their COVID-19 restrictions, some are wondering, “Why is the stock market doing so well when the economy is doing so poorly?” It’s a great question, and fortunately,...

Tuesday, June 2, 2020

The shortened week, which began with a powerful two-day rally of trading, was enough to drive the markets into another week of solid gains.The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 3.75%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 advanced...

Friday, May 29, 2020

The field of behavioral finance focuses on the emotional and cognitive aspects of investing. In recent decades, well-known economists have advanced the theory that investors' decisions can be driven by human emotions such as greed and...

Wednesday, May 27, 2020

As a business owner, you're going to have to decide when will be the right time to step out of the family business and how you'lldo it. There are many estate planning tools you can use to transfer your business. Selecting the right one...

Wednesday, May 27, 2020

Upbeat comments by the Federal Reserve Chairman and more signs of an economic turnaround combined to help fuel a powerful rally in the stock market last week.The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 3.29%, while the Standard &...

Tuesday, May 26, 2020

Listen on Apple Podcasts HERE In this week's episode of The Trusted Advisor Show, Devin Walsh co-hosts with Rob Jacomen to discuss the single biggest secret to building a successful and sustainable business...the Art of Relationships....

Wednesday, May 20, 2020

The Internal Revenue Service knows that many taxpayers have had a stressful spring. So, it has reset the federal tax deadline. You now have until July 15 to file your 1040 form. July 15 is also the deadline to pay any federal taxes...

Tuesday, May 19, 2020

Stocks drifted lower last week, weighed down by Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell’s unsettling comments on the economy and signs of renewed tensions with China. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 2.65%, while the...

Friday, May 15, 2020

1-3) MarketWatch, April 20 & 24, 20204) International Energy Agency, April 20205, 12, 16) U.S. Energy Information Administration, 20206-7) The Wall Street Journal, April 22, 20208-9) Bloomberg, April 20 & 22, 202010) The Wall Street...

Sunday, May 3, 2020

Friday, May 1, 2020

The COVID-19 pandemic has shaken up nearly every aspect of American life. To say it’s been a difficult time would be an understatement. However, difficult times may open doors to new possibilities. Businesses are changing their...

Wednesday, April 29, 2020

Are you eligible for a stimulus check from the Treasury Department? As of Friday, April 24, the Internal Revenue Service said it had issued 88 million payments to individuals across the country. It plans to send out more than 150...

Tuesday, April 28, 2020

Stock prices bounced around last week as investors reacted to wild swings in the price of oil and reports that called into question the efficacy of two potential virus treatments.The Dow Jones Industrial Average retreated 1.93%, while...

Tuesday, April 21, 2020

Powerful Business Valuation Tips & Strategies...What's Your Business Really Worth? Listen on Apple Podcasts HERE In this week's episode of The Trusted Advisor Show, Rob, Ryan and Devin get together to reveal powerful business valuation...

Friday, April 10, 2020

Episode #3: How to Fire Your Mediocre Vendors Gracefully Without Feeling Any Stress or Guilt!

Tuesday, April 7, 2020

On February 19, the S&P 500 index closed at an all-time high, the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) was still seen as primarily a Chinese issue (though a few other countries were reporting their first deaths), and the democratic primary was...

Friday, April 3, 2020

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...