Blog Posts

Best Interest = More Confusion?

Best Interest = More Confusion?

by | Sep 19, 2019 |

By Michael J. Searcy

There has always been a divide in the financial industry between those who embrace fiduciary duty and those who skirt around it. It is a divide that can be nearly impossible for consumers to recognize and understand, leaving them exposed to potential harm depending on whose hands they find themselves in.

Am I working with an actual advisor or a salesperson? Is this person legally required to put my interests ahead of their own or are they suggesting something that’s good enough because it earns them a nice commission?

The Investment Risk No One’s Ever Heard Of

The Investment Risk No One’s Ever Heard Of

by | Aug 12, 2019 |

Knowledgeable investors are aware that investing in the capital markets presents any number of risks – interest rate risk, company risk, and market risk.

Risk is an inseparable companion to the potential for long-term growth. Though some risk can be mitigated through diversification, it does not eliminate the risk of loss if security prices decline. Chances are, this is a risk you were very willing to take when you started investing for your future.

Did you know? As an investor, you face another, less-known risk for which the market does not compensate you, nor can it be easily reduced through diversification. Yet, it may be the biggest challenge to the sustainability of your retirement income or other goal funding.

4 Things to Consider When Receiving an Inheritance

4 Things to Consider When Receiving an Inheritance

by | Aug 12, 2019 |

By John C. Fales

Although an inheritance typically comes from some form of loss, it could mean a significant monetary gain for the receiving party.

If you have advance knowledge of the incoming inheritance, you may be better prepared for how to handle it, but there are always things you should consider in this situation. Let’s take a look at several of those considerations:

Last Wishes – Put Them in a Letter

Last Wishes – Put Them in a Letter

by | Aug 12, 2019 |

Actor Lee Marvin once said, “As soon as people see my face on a movie screen, they [know] two things: first, I’m not going to get the girl, and second, I’ll get a cheap funeral before the picture is over.”

Most people don’t spend too much time thinking about their own funeral, and yet, many of us have a vision about our memorial service or the handling of our remains. A letter of instruction can help you accomplish that goal.

A Financial Roadmap for Life

A Financial Roadmap for Life

by | Jul 24, 2019 |

By Michael J. Searcy

There’s a big difference between making a good living and making a good life. Making a good life, for me, means I get to help people pull together all the pieces of their current situation, and show them how each piece impacts the others, creating an organization to the chaos to help guide them through the life they desire. I’ve met countless people who make a great living, but make no time to really live. Having a financial plan is crucial to getting the most out of life, and beyond. Following that financial plan could be the difference between “I’m so glad I planned and prioritized,” and “I shoulda, coulda, wish I woulda.”

Patagonia Adventure: Chile & Argentina

Patagonia Adventure: Chile & Argentina

by | Jul 11, 2019 |

By Marc C. Shaffer Time for another international travel adventure! To read more on my philosophy of prioritizing travel in my life, visit I PLAN, So That I Can.  December 26, 2019 – January 11, 2020 Patagonia—one of the top trekking destinations in the world!...

Critical Elements of an Estate Plan

Critical Elements of an Estate Plan

by | Jun 27, 2019 |

We talk a lot about estate planning because taking steps to help protect your estate is a key financial choice. With proper strategies, you may be able to maximize your opportunities and help manage stress and confusion for your loved ones. Yet, approximately 50% of 50 year olds don’t have a will in place — despite the fact that almost 60% of Americans plan to leave an inheritance.

Taking time to create estate strategies not only helps you put your financial house in order, but can also save you money. By documenting your wishes and goals, you create a legal framework that the courts, your executor, and your loved ones can follow when settling your estate. Without these strategies in place, your family risks going through a lengthy and expensive process — which could alter any wishes you had for your legacy.

Determining When to Retire

Determining When to Retire

by | Jun 27, 2019 |

You love everything about being gainfully employed. But you’re getting close to retirement. What do you do? Should you wait until you’re 70? Retire at 62? Or continue working, but fewer hours, or maybe, in a different, less-demanding position?

In this article, we will explore some of your choices. We will take a look at some of the available options that may fit your circumstances and lifestyle, while also considering the condition of your health during your later working years.

Keep Up with Good Recordkeeping

Keep Up with Good Recordkeeping

by | Jun 27, 2019 |

Maintaining a sound financial life also means taking steps to help protect your important records. Was tax season a paperwork mess for you? Have you struggled with finding important documents when you need them? Below are three questions to consider as you prepare your organization system for tax and legal documents for the upcoming year and beyond:

Signing Away Your Rights Due to Mandatory Arbitration Clauses

Signing Away Your Rights Due to Mandatory Arbitration Clauses

by | May 30, 2019 |

By Michael J. Searcy

Many years ago, I was an expert witness in an arbitration hearing regarding a financial matter. That experience changed me and changed the way I do business… I realized that, while there is a rightful place for mandatory arbitration clauses, that place is not in your financial planning or investment management contract. It’s simply not fair to the consumer.

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