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Thursday, December 7, 2023

Looking ahead at a home purchase? High rates convincing you to stay put as long as possible? With mortgage rates pushing above 7%, you might think a reasonable mortgage is out of reach. I’ve got some not-so-great news for you....

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...

Monday, December 4, 2023

Things You Can Do for Your Future as the Year Unfolds What are your upcoming financial, business, or life goals that require attention in the upcoming year? It's a great moment to contemplate the investment, savings, or budgeting...

Thursday, November 30, 2023

Traditionally, many individuals with IRA accounts choose to name their family members as beneficiaries, thus sidestepping the probate process and facilitating a seamless transfer of assets to their intended heirs. Nevertheless, for...

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...

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Thursday, November 23, 2023

As we near the close of 2023, there are numerous reasons for investors to embrace gratitude. Here are six compelling reasons: 1. Flourishing Stock Performance:The S&P 500 has surged this year, defying numerous worries and uncertainties...

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...

Thursday, November 16, 2023

I've spent countless hours of my life talking with people all over the world about money. During these conversations, one theme comes up again and again. Anxiety. Almost everybody has an idea of what the financial life of their dreams...

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

Identity theft is a growing problem, and it's important to take steps to protect yourself. Here are some tips to help you prevent identity theft and keep your personal information safe. Checks Use your initials and last name when...

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...

Thursday, November 2, 2023

If you are age 73 or older, you are required to take at least a minimum withdrawal from your tax-deferred retirement accounts every year, whether you need the money or not. Why? The federal government wants its share. Tax-deferred...

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...

Thursday, October 26, 2023

Losing a job can feel devastating (especially when you didn't see it coming). And there's a lot that seems urgent all at once. If that's not something you've ever had to deal with, I'm glad to hear it because you're lucky. If you've...

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...

Thursday, October 19, 2023

Once you're prepared to initiate payments on your student loans, the process might seem straightforward—simply start making payments, right? However, the timing of your payments, and even instances when you miss payments, can...

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...

Thursday, October 12, 2023

You’ve probably heard of the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP). But what is it? It must be important because you’re getting a whole lot of junk mail about it. There’s a never-ending parade of fading TV stars and...

Monday, October 9, 2023

A Friday rally overcame a shaky week, sending stocks mostly higher. The Dow Jones Industrial Average slipped 0.30% for the week. Meanwhile, the Standard & Poor’s 500 gained 0.48%, and the Nasdaq Composite index added 1.60% for...

Thursday, October 5, 2023

Unlocking Enlightenment through Budgeting: A Surprising Path to Self-Awareness Calling all yogis, meditators, and seekers of enlightenment! If you're chasing that elusive state of higher consciousness, it's time to put aside the down...

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...

Thursday, September 28, 2023

Inevitably, the conclusion of our lives is something we will all face. Although it might be a disconcerting subject, it holds significance to construct a comprehensive arrangement to alleviate the burdens on those dear to us. Here, we...

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%...

Thursday, September 21, 2023

Typically, individuals aged 65 and above are eligible to enroll in Medicare. However, to qualify for premium-free Medicare Part A, both men and women must have worked and paid taxes for at least 10 years, earning 40 credits in total...

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...

Thursday, September 14, 2023

W2 employees have fewer tax planning options out there, however, that does not mean they have none. Here are 12 of the best tax planning moves to consider as a high-income W2 employee.1. Max Out Your Pre-Tax 401(k)Retirement accounts...

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%....

Thursday, September 7, 2023

A Roth IRA is one of the most powerful tools you can use to become extremely wealthy. But there are so many misconceptions about them that keeps many from taking advantage.Let me clear up the confusion around Roth IRAs: 1) You...

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...

Thursday, August 31, 2023

9 budgeting hacks that help build financial strength and resilienceIn spite of recent decreases in inflation, it can still become increasingly challenging to manage expenses as the prices of everyday goods appear to continue rising....

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...

Thursday, August 24, 2023

Gaining a thorough understanding of the most effective strategies to maximize Social Security benefits is vital for individuals who are planning for retirement. Social Security plays a critical role in ensuring financial stability...

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...

Thursday, August 17, 2023

In the realm of financial advisory, the role of a financial advisor transcends mere numbers and investments. It extends to forging meaningful relationships, guiding individuals through their financial journeys, and enabling them to...

Monday, August 14, 2023

Positive inflation data failed to lift stocks from their August doldrums last week as economic data and a ratings downgrade soured investor sentiment. The Dow Jones Industrial Average added 0.62%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500...

Monday, August 14, 2023

Celebrating National Finance Awareness Day: Flagship's Dedication to Client Communication and Goal Achievement On National Finance Awareness Day, we celebrate the importance of financial literacy and recognize the efforts of financial...

Thursday, August 10, 2023

It's completely understandable that many women have concerns about running out of retirement savings, and there are various factors contributing to these worries. Let's explore the main reasons why women tend to have this fear more...

Monday, August 7, 2023

Stocks retreated last week as bond yields increased following the Treasury's announcement indicating “a larger-than-expected funding need” and a downgrade in the federal government’s debt rating. The Dow Jones...

Saturday, August 5, 2023

The surprise US credit rating downgrade by Fitch this week is not expected to result in any lasting major negative consequences for the economy, consumers, or the government's borrowing ability. Typically, when a consumer's credit...

Thursday, August 3, 2023

The advent of modern technologies has brought forth a plethora of innovative ideas, designs, and advancements that hold the potential to transform the next century in stark contrast to the previous one. The rise of smart technology,...

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 &...

Thursday, July 27, 2023

Most people don't understand the traps of buying real estate in an IRA. Real estate and IRAs have many benefits, but combining the two can be a costly move. Let's dive into 8 reasons why buying real estate in an IRA can bring more...

Monday, July 24, 2023

Stocks moved to the rhythm of earnings season last week, initially rising on positive earnings surprises and faltering later in the week on key earnings disappointments. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 2.08%, while the...

Thursday, July 20, 2023

PID works by convincing you to buy an investment at a silly price for no other reason than the hope that it will continue to go up so you can sell it to someone else at an even sillier price.

Monday, July 17, 2023

Better-than-expected updates last week on consumer and wholesale price inflation buoyed investor sentiment, driving stocks higher and lower bond yields. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 2.29%, while the Standard &...

Thursday, July 13, 2023

Most children stop being "and-a-half" somewhere around age 12. Kids add "and-a-half" to make sure everyone knows they're closer to the next age than the last. When you are older, "and-a-half" birthdays start making a comeback

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, July 6, 2023

As a parent, you of course want to give your child the best opportunity for success, and for many, attending the "right" university or college is that opportunity. Unfortunately, being accepted to the college of one's choice may not be...

Monday, July 3, 2023

Stocks posted gains for the week to close out a stellar month, aided by positive economic data and reports that all major banks had passed the Federal Reserve’s annual stress test.The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 2.02%,...

Thursday, June 29, 2023

Though education costs continue to climb, starting to save early can make a difference.Of all the things that keep parents awake at night, their children's looming college costs are among the most daunting. For the 2022-2023 school...

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...

Thursday, June 22, 2023

No one likes losing. In fact, we’ll do almost anything to avoid it. Academics even have a name for this. It’s called Loss Aversion. The reason we are so averse to losing is that we feel the pain of loss more acutely than we feel the p

Friday, June 16, 2023

A new deal finally put the debt ceiling issue to rest (for now, anyway), and stocks are rallying.Are we on the brink of a new bull market?We might be. The S&P 500 has soared in 2023 and is up nearly 20% from its October 2022 low...

Wednesday, June 14, 2023

When it comes to finances, our attention is often drawn to the exciting aspects such as stock picking, option trading, and investment performance. This fixation can largely be attributed to the influence of media. Whether we tune into...

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...

Thursday, June 8, 2023

We only have so much time, energy, and attention. So how do we decide where to place our focus? To figure out the answer to that question, I like to ask myself two other questions: 1- Does it matter? 2- Can I control it? Unless the...

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...

Thursday, June 1, 2023

One crazy thing we do as humans is take the recent past and project it indefinitely into the future. As the news cycle has sped up, this problem has only gotten worse. It used to feel like the “recent past” went as far back...

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...

Thursday, May 25, 2023

In the current volatile economy, many Americans are hesitant to work with financial advisors due to financial constraints. However, a recent study reveals why it's crucial for them to reconsider their decision. Russell Investments...

Thursday, May 25, 2023

The debt ceiling is a term used to describe the legal limit on the amount of money the United States government can borrow to fund its operations. It is a limit set by Congress on the amount of debt that the federal government can...

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 &...

Thursday, May 18, 2023

Preparing for Lifetime Income in RetirementRetirement is a time of transition, and it often comes with a lot of questions and concerns about financial security. One of the biggest concerns for retirees is how to ensure a steady stream...

Friday, May 12, 2023

We have spent endless amounts of time, money, and human capital trying to identify variables that help predict market behavior. We have looked at the ridiculous (Super Bowl winners) and the more serious (past performance). Still, none

Monday, May 8, 2023

A Friday rebound, triggered by a big tech company’s earnings beat and a strong jobs report, shaved much of the week’s accumulated losses.The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 1.24%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500...

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 &...

Thursday, April 13, 2023

40% of people regret buying their car. Why? Car salesmen are experts at making you overspend. Lucky for you, they all use the same tricks. Watch out for these 5 sales tactics when buying your next car: 

Monday, April 3, 2023

Stocks rallied last week on receding fears of a widening banking crisis, led by resurging investor interest in technology and communication services names.The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 3.22%, while the Standard & Poor’s...

Tuesday, March 28, 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...

Wednesday, March 8, 2023

What is a UTMA account?  UTMA stands for Uniform Transfer to Minors Act. An UTMA account is an account that allows you to give a minor (or child) money, property, or anything of financial value such as artwork, life insurance...

Tuesday, December 27, 2022

The American Care Act of 2021, delivered a sucker punch to gig workers and the owners of microbusiness who sell items on such sites as Etsy and Ebay when the lowered the reposting threshold from $20,000 to $600. The IRS announced...

Friday, December 9, 2022

SIX WAYS TO KNOW YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH YOUR FINANCIAL ADVISOR IS STRONGYou work hard to provide you and your family with a secure financial future; So, when it comes to managing your money, it’s important to pick the right...

Wednesday, October 5, 2022

Why am I feeling this way?   There are various reasons driving Americans to exit their jobs. Some have realized that life is too short to remain in unfulfilling roles, with the pandemic underscoring this perspective. Others have...

Tuesday, September 6, 2022

The White House recently forgave up to $10,000 to student loan borrowers as part of a larger debt forgiveness program. There are still quite a few questions to be answered, but here are some key points to know.Pell vs. non-Pell: Loan...

Tuesday, December 1, 2020

Why am I feeling this way?   There are various reasons driving Americans to exit their jobs. Some have realized that life is too short to remain in unfulfilling roles, with the pandemic underscoring this perspective. Others have...

Monday, March 4, 2019

Tip: How Much? Check your Social Security earnings and see an estimate of your benefits on the website, www.ssa.gov. Social Security’s been a fact of retirement life ever since it was established in 1935. We all think we know how...