CategoriesAsset Allocation, Financial QB TV Videos, Home Featured, Retirement, Retirement Income, Risk, The Stock Market by

Trump’s 401k Shake-Up: Why Private Equity Spells Trouble for Your Retirement

As a certified financial planner with decades of experience guiding everyday Americans toward secure retirements, I’ve seen how 401(k) plans anchor millions of workers’ financial futures. These employer-sponsored accounts let you save pre-tax dollars and invest in stocks, bonds, or mutual funds for long-term growth towards your future retirement. But a new policy threatens this simple system: the Trump Administration is expected to sign an executive order soon, directing federal regulators to issue guidance on adding private investments—like private equity—to 401(k) portfolios. While this aims to diversify options, for the average 401(k) investor unfamiliar with private equity, it’s a risky move. Read More

CategoriesFinancial Planning, Financial QB TV Videos, Home Featured, Investor Behavior, Retirement, Retirement Income, The Stock Market, Uncategorized by

Don’t Have This Retirement

Not all retirement plans are the same.

Some are calm and steady, like floating down a peaceful river. Others feel more like a roller coaster – up one day, down the next – and you’re holding on tight, hoping things go your way.

If you’re using your investments to pay for retirement, that’s totally fine. But if you find yourself feeling worried all the time, it might be a sign your plan needs a little help.

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CategoriesFinancial Planning, Financial QB TV Videos, Retirement, Retirement Income by

Structuring Your Retirement Income

Retirement planning is a complex puzzle, and structuring your retirement income is one of its most critical pieces. With life expectancies increasing and economic uncertainties persisting, ensuring a sustainable income stream throughout retirement is more challenging than ever. Numerous strategies and “rules” have emerged to guide retirees in managing their finances, such as the Rule of 240 Paychecks, the ‘Die With Zero’ Rule, the Rule of 1,000 Hours, the Rule of Four Futures, the Rule of $1,000, the Rule of 55, the 80% Rule, the 4% Rule, and the Rule of 25. Each offers a unique perspective on how to approach retirement income, from withdrawal rates to early retirement funding. While these rules provide valuable frameworks, they often overlook critical realities about retirement that can make or break your financial security. This article explores these strategies and emphasizes the importance of a balanced income approach, the unpredictability of life expectancy, and the non-linear nature of retirement. Read More

CategoriesFinancial QB TV Videos, Retirement, Retirement Income, Risk by

Retirement in a World of Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s

More Americans than ever are living longer lives. But with longer life comes a higher risk of neurological diseases—especially Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. These conditions not only affect memory and movement, but they also come with long-term care needs that can drain both your finances and your quality of life. Read More
CategoriesFinancial QB TV Videos, Retirement, Retirement Income by

Is Retirement Dead? The New Trend That’s Redefining Life After 65

Traditionally, retirement meant stopping work entirely around age 65 and relying on pensions and Social Security. However, as pensions become rarer and life expectancy increases, many are reconsidering their approach. The COVID-19 pandemic also reshaped the workforce, prompting some to retire early while others delayed retirement to navigate economic uncertainty. In 2023, workforce participation among those 65 or older exceeded 20% for the first time in over 50 years, highlighting a shift toward extended employment.

For those not ready to stop working completely, phased retirement offers a smoother transition, providing financial stability and an opportunity to adjust emotionally and socially to post-work life. Read More

CategoriesFinancial Planning, Financial QB TV Videos, Income Planning, Retirement Income by

Post Election Perspectives for Your Investment Strategy

Political news is everywhere, dominating conversations and stirring emotions. It’s tempting for investors to react to these developments, whether it’s debates over tariffs, inflation concerns, or discussions about immigration policies. But making changes to your portfolio based on political headlines—or what you think might happen—is rarely a wise move. Read More

CategoriesFinancial QB TV Videos, Income Planning, Retirement Income by

Medicare and Income; Be Careful Taking that IRA Distribution

When people retire, they often wonder what to do with the money in their 401(k) from their former employer. Be careful about withdrawing all the money at once just because you can. While there’s no tax penalty for withdrawing after age 59 ½, taking a large amount at once can impact your Medicare costs if you’re over 63. Read More

CategoriesCapitalism, Economics, Financial QB TV Videos, Retirement Income by

Why Taxing Unrealized Gains is Absurd

There has been increasing talk of taxing unrealized capital gains, especially targeting individuals with assets over $100 million. While this might sound like a good way to ensure the ultra-wealthy pay their “fair share,” there are significant downsides to this approach. Lets explore three reasons why taxing unrealized gains is wrong and how it could eventually affect everyday investors if the policy trickles down. Read More

CategoriesFinancial Planning, Financial QB TV Videos, Retirement, Retirement Income, The Stock Market by

The Declining Financial Security of Retirees in Today’s Economy

In just four years, the financial landscape for retirees has shifted dramatically, placing many in precarious situations. While retirement was once a time to enjoy the fruits of decades of labor, today’s retirees are finding themselves navigating a sea of economic challenges that threaten their financial stability. The rising cost of living, the inflated costs of maintaining home equity, and the volatile stock market are all contributing factors. These challenges make it clear that retirees are worse off today than they were just a few years ago. Read More