January Recap and February Outlook January seemed to go on forever, as the country faced extreme weather and devastating wildfires. The new administration got underway with a lot of sound and fury, particularly around tariffs,…
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Planning for Potentially Higher Volatility in 2025
Last year ended with a strong economy and positive stock and bond market returns. With inflation under 3% and GDP over 3%, the soft landing remained in place. While volatility was not a constant theme,…
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January Market Commentary – Seems Like Old Times?
December Recap and January Outlook The inauguration of only the second U.S. president to win two non-consecutive terms (Grover Cleveland was the first) is historic by a host of measures. Starting a second term of…
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Inflation-Adjusted Increases Come Down to Earth
The Federal Reserve has succeeded in bringing inflation down to the long-term goal rate of near 2%, which is good news for consumers. But for savers and taxpayers, this means that the big increases we’ve…
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December Market Commentary: A New Regime Comes Into Focus
November Recap and December Outlook The transition to a new administration is underway with announcements of cabinet position nominees. The pro-business lean of the incoming government is not a surprise, and the emphasis is likely…
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2025 Retirement Savings Contribution Limits
The IRS has increased the contribution limits for many retirement savings plans. In 2025, 401(k)s, 403(b)s, governmental 457 plans, and the Thrift Savings Plan for government employees and the armed services will see an increase…
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Is Your 401(k) Savings on Track?
Saving for retirement should be part of every stage of your work life, from your first job to your last years before retirement. A 401(k) or other similar employer-sponsored, tax-advantaged retirement savings vehicle is, for…
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A Historic Election Removes Some Uncertainty
October Recap and November Outlook An election season with several twists and turns came to a not-unexpected end with the reelection of President Donald Trump. The received wisdom is that the financial markets hate uncertainty,…
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Donor Advised Funds: A Flexible Tool for a New Generation of Giving
Donor advised funds (DAFs) provide a way for individuals and families to manage their charitable giving in a streamlined, flexible way that can allow a giving plan to develop and change over time, while the…
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A Volatile Start to the End of the Year?
September Recap and October Outlook September equity markets ended the month in positive territory, but with volatility increased. The VIX, the markets “fear index” closed higher than last month, at 16.73, up from 15.00. Intramonth,…
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