Blog Posts

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.

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:

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.

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.”

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.