Financial Tips of the Week

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April 27, 2023

What is your own definition of retirement? Some people have the big red X on the calendar. Count down those days when doing absolutely nothing is the goal.

For some people, it’s simply a point of financial independence. Other people will never retire because they love what they do. And some can never retire, simply because they cannot.  My own personal belief is simple yet powerful (in my own opinion). Retirement (is mental, not physical) is when you stop sacrificing today for imagining tomorrow, especially regarding money or lifestyle.

Are you happy now? Present? Grateful in the moment? Are you playful and curious? Adventurous?  And most of all, are you excited to wake up every day?  Simply put - Be fearless in the pursuit of whatever it is that sets your soul on fire.

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April 20, 2023

We have been asked the following question many times throughout the years: The market looks like it’s going to go down. Things look very negative. CNBC said…… Should we get out of the markets entirely?

Absolutely not. It’s ok to reduce your exposure but not a great idea, in most cases, to bring that exposure to zero. Why? Reason number one- no matter what the “experts” say, NOONE in the history of the capital markets has ever been able to accurately predict the short/intermediate-term movements of the stock market on a consistent basis. Ever. It’s akin to flipping a coin. 

Reason number two- It has statistically proven that missing the biggest several up days (coming out of a down market) over a decade will dramatically decrease your long-term returns. Build a plan that makes for your family, and try hard never to predict the unpredictable.

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April 13, 2023

This week’s “tip” might be more akin to a controversial opinion, but here it goes. I am of the belief that our education system in this country lacks a very important thing: financial literacy. Yes, there are occasional courses (electives vs. mandatory etc.) but not nearly enough. 

We run into so many adults who have no idea about their 401k, mortgage, retirement plan, and wills let alone their budget and spending habits. 

Society promotes instant gratification and uses credit card debt to fuel it. When our youth accepts their first job out of college or high school, being financially literate would be incredibly helpful. It is important for them to learn life lessons such as how to buy a house, how to harness the power of compound interest early in life to avoid struggle late in life. 

Music, art, drama class, social studies etc. are all important to create a well-rounded education. Isn’t taking care of yourself and creating a stress-free financial life as or more important than what happened 500 years ago? 

I’m not suggesting we dilute the importance of existing classes but I’m screaming from the rooftop- where are the courses (mandatory) on financial literacy in high school?

We’d like to help if you feel the same way. We offer live classes (via Zoom) several times a year right here at Sage. Finance and investing 101. These classes were originally intended for high school and students fresh out of college, but adults have signing up more frequently. 

These classes are 100% free of charge, no strings. If you’d like more info, please reach out to us by phone at 845-240-1551 or by email at info@sageinvestmentadvisersllc.com for a class schedule and availability.

Whatever you or a young adult in your family may need, let us know. We want to help!

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April 6, 2023

Because interest rates moved substantially higher in the past year or so (.25% to almost 5%) to combat inflationary pressures, the rates themselves are being scrutinized more so than in recent past. 

And for good reason! 

The rate on your savings/checking/money/cd’s or your treasury bonds matter again. They are a very meaningful yet conservative part of your portfolio. Many would argue that we are losing money here- (4% rate vs. 6+% inflation). 

Sometimes in a market/economy this uncertain and volatile, it’s ok to “hold your nose” to the phantom inflation loss, as long as it’s a short-term view. 

We do want to caution the following however, and LOUDLY- keep it simple and plain vanilla here. Do not buy hard to understand products here. They are often a wolf in sheep’s clothing. If the FED is paying 4% and a “product” is paying 7% for a comparable duration, think twice. Really understand what your buying!

A 5% CD can be understood in one sentence. If a shiny new “deal” comes with 146-page prospectus, there’s a reason. You are usually not the winner there. Remember Buffet’s old quote- “ More money has been lost reaching for yield than at gunpoint.” 

Happy Spring everyone!

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March 30, 2023

We have been asked several times in recent weeks about whether it’s prudent to wait for interest rates on mortgages to come back down before- buying/selling/listing/building/investing etc. 

We believe that each case is unique. You should buy the home that’s right for you and sell when it’s time to sell. If the investment makes sense now, go for it. If not, wait. 

I heard this quote from a friend, and it makes sense here- “marry the property but date the rate”. You may get a chance to refinance in the future. If you do, great! If not, you still have what you wanted/needed and what made sense in the first place.

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March 23, 2023

There have been a few inquiries this week on the heels of last week's “regional bank liquidity crisis.”

For 99.9% of us, here’s all you need to know. Don’t put $250,000 or more in one name under one bank roof (in any combination of cd’s savings, checking, etc.), period. 

You can protect yourself by buying US TREASURIES or diversifying your bank holding (up to $250k). 

If you must keep more than $250k (.i.e.. operating capital or payroll for your company), there are alternatives such as US Treasury-based money markets, etc. Most say, “don’t worry, they bail us out.” While that has been true for the most part, we are approaching $33 Trillion in debt in this country. 

Does the levy ever break? Who knows, but- why take the chance when the fix is so easy.

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March 16, 2023

Due to the SVB bank crisis (regional bank crisis as a whole), quite a few people have inquired about the safety of their money/cash/savings-especially at the “BANK”. 

We have been advocating for months now the use of treasury bonds (very short to 5 yr. terms). Regardless of the actual risk of a run on your bank, isn’t it nice to avoid worry about $250k FDIC limits-as well as great rates, liquidity, no state tax etc. 

It’s likely to be unreasonable to worry about your day-to-day checking/savings but may make sense to avoid worry on larger balances. And last-consider weather treasuries work for your plan not whether you should hurry and consider because of negative press on regional banks. 

Sometimes the very best offense is a terrific defense.

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March 9, 2023

“It’s waiting that helps you as an investor and a lot of people can’t stand to wait. If you didn’t get the delayed gratification gene, you’ll have to work very hard to overcome that.”- Charlie Munger, Berkshire Hathaway

Good Lesson here- if you have the wrong temperament (impatient/impulsive/thrill seeking/gambler mentality), it’s best to have a plan with an advisor to implement and do the trading for you. 

This forced discipline can be invaluable. If you must “trade actively” and seek all the hottest tips, you are best to limit this activity to some percentage of your total portfolio (.i.e.-10%). It is also wise to hold your trading assets in an entirely different account than your investment assets.

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March 2, 2023

Do you have an Umbrella policy? 

An umbrella policy is relatively inexpensive for catastrophic coverage. Policies are usually sought in the $1mil-$5mil range and are great for excess liability coverage (you are sued for a significant sum and that suit would be catastrophic if you paid from your own assets). You should consider one especially if you have any of the following:

• Younger kids driving

• Swimming pools

• Trampolines

• A business

• Engagement in dangerous activities (off road recreational vehicles on your property)

 Could your family benefit from an Umbrella? If so, how much do you need?

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February 23, 2023

RETIREMENT! 

One day you will wake up and never have to work again. It’s what many people strive for. However, it is more than ok to semi-retire too. 

You don’t have to 100% retire. Consider flexible positions or become a consultant in your chosen field. A semi-retirement can bridge both the financial gap as well as the “boredom/ I like to work” gap. 

Can you choose to “fade out”? Absolutely. Should you? (Money aside)- That’s up to the individual.

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February 16, 2023

Most of us see our physician once per year at a minimum for an annual physical after we hit “middle age” or older. 

You should absolutely conduct a one-per-year “physical”  of your finances as well as an investment policy statement. 

Once have your team of experts in place, use their knowledge and opinion. Did you have any major life changes this year? Are you on track? 

In essence, KNOW vs. guess. Always.

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February 9, 2023

Savings on taxes should not be your primary investment objective.

A lot of investors ask us about Municipal bonds. “TAX-FREE BONDS!”

They are ready to invest without doing any math. It’s not the taxes you pay but the post-tax rate of return you should pay attention too.

In the end, it’s not what you make but what you keep so be sure to approach the math from both sides.

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February 2, 2023

Compare yourself to who you were yesterday, not who someone else is today.

Consider the absolute power of compounding interest in yourself.

The world has a habit of making room for the woman/man whose actions show that they know where they’re going.

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January 26, 2023

Many families ask us about Trusts- to protect their estates from risk, taxation, skilled nursing costs, and more.

We discuss these difficult issues in detail and help build a solid plan to take to their attorney for execution. We have found that a fair number of those families haven’t even built the foundation of their estate plans.

The simple “musts”. For this week’s tip/suggestion, we ask the following:

1. do you have a last will and testament? How old is it?

2. do you have a durable (financial) power of attorney named in the event of mental or physical incapacity?

3. who is your named healthcare proxy? Are your health proxy documents in order?

4. do you have a living will and is it in good order?

5. are all these documents recent and in an easy-to-find place?



Call us if you have any questions/doubts regarding your current estate plan. We are always happy to help.

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January 19, 2023

Most people see their CPA or tax preparers once a year.

Once tax preparation is done and their tax return is filed, they will see their accountant next year.

There is incredible value in seeking extra time with your CPA (even if it costs a bit more) to plan and understand your own tax liabilities. Seek one or two meetings throughout the year prior to tax preparation to ensure the implementation of your plan.

Most people don’t plan to fail in this area, they fail to plan.

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January 12, 2023

Most people see their CPA or tax preparers once a year.

Once tax preparation is done and their tax return is filed, they will see their accountant next year.

There is incredible value in seeking extra time with your CPA (even if it costs a bit more) to plan and understand your own tax liabilities. Seek one or two meetings throughout the year prior to tax preparation to ensure the implementation of your plan.

Most people don’t plan to fail in this area, they fail to plan.

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January 5, 2023

Be mindful of the following FACT as we move forward in 2023!

No one in the history of capital markets has ever been able to accurately predict the short-term movements of the markets consistently.

It’s akin to flipping a coin. If a coin is flipped a number of times and they guess right a couple of times, a person can begin to believe they know or can predict. But they can’t. Neither can you and neither can we.

Be careful of making any significant moves based on one research source. It’s ok to shift your risk asset allocation percentages up a bit or down a bit but avoid an “all-in” bet in this market. A recession looks likely if we’re not already in one but that does not automatically mean a raging bear market.

The stock market is a leading indicator in most economic cases, so it tends to fall 6 months to a year prior to economic data actually showing a recession. 2022 is certainly representative of this. Keep your plan intact and follow your investment policy statement with discipline.

Perhaps the markets will reflect another negative at 2023’s end………..or maybe it’s a great year. A toast to peace and prosperity- Happy New Year everyone.

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December 29, 2022

Did you take your required minimum distribution from your IRA?!

If you (or your family member) are over the age of 72, you should have taken a minimum distribution. You have until tomorrow at the close of business to do so!

Be sure to contact your financial advisor if you need help doing so.

Happy New Year everyone!

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December 22, 2022

If you’re an investor in individual stocks (companies vs funds/etfs), it’s wise to have a strategy as we are very possibly heading into a recession in 2023.

Consider companies that are cash-rich for dividends, share buybacks, and overall health. Consider companies that have little to no debt so it’s much easier to weather the coming storm.

Consider market leaders that have pricing power as they can raise their prices quickly to adjust to the environment. And last but not least, this is an environment to buy great companies and reasonable prices not marginal/mediocre companies at great prices.

Stay away from suspect companies here. The buffet always said- “you never know who’s been swimming naked until the tide goes out”.

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December 15, 2022

We have been sounding the warning bell on “crypto-currencies” for a couple of years now. We are still avoiding the space even after it has imploded.

Our firm is not a fan of assets that are non-producing (hoping the next guy or girl pays more is the only hope for a return). Blockchain tech absolutely has a place in our future, but not like this.

As always in this space-buyers beware.

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December 8, 2022

Many investments out there are risk-averse, and some of the time, that is ok. However, when inflation is running at 6-8% and your “safe “ assets are paying 3%, you are losing 2-5% and don’t realize it.

This reality may not hurt too much in short term but too many years of being behind in inflation can come back to haunt you. Just make sure your own plan accounts for this reality.

Be aware!

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December 1, 2022

Food for thought:

The last time the $20 Gold coin was minted for circulation in the US was 1933. That coin was 1 ounce of gold, while Silver coins (also 1 ounce) were $1.00.

Simply put the ratio between gold and silver as currency back then was 20/1. As of today (close approximation), gold is $1788 per ounce and silver is $22+ per ounce.

Today’s ratio is 81/1 vs 20/1. Perhaps a small amount of silver in your portfolio could represent both a nice hedge and also a reasonable long-term value.

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November 25, 2022

Consider a Roth Ira or even (and especially) a Roth 401K.

The modern 401k was born in 1978. At that time, the thought process was this- You can accumulate retirement assets pre-tax and someday when retired you can withdraw said assets at a much lower tax bracket than you were accustomed to in your working years.

Many investors (if reasonably successful and consistent) will not escape the high tax bracket even in retirement. Most likely-EVER. If your tax liability is likely to stay burdensome, we strongly suggest looking for a Roth structure instead. Why? After a 5-year grace period, the money and its earnings are tax-free forever. The advantages include:

• No required distributions after 72 years of age
• No ordinary income taxes owed by your children or heirs after you pass (estate tax may apply). Traditional 401k plans and IRAs pass the tax burden to your heirs.
• Control over your assets- in essence, 35%+ doesn’t belong to the IRS. It’s yours.

Obviously check with your CPA to see what makes the most sense for you.

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November 17, 2022

“The big money is not in the buying and the selling but the waiting.”- Charlie Munger

Be patient. If your plan is well crafted, you’ll almost always be rewarded for your patience.

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November 10, 2022

CRYPTOCURRENCY- As we have repeatedly warned over the past couple of years, Cryptocurrency has become a dangerous means for speculation.

Most crypto’s are down 75% or more in the past 12 months. Most crypto’s will not remain solvent. We agree the returns for a lot of people have been astounding (while they lasted) but for all the wrong reasons. People made money because of greed, hysteria, and speculation, not because of sound underlying asset values.

Cryptocurrency will not last as a currency. Nothing that volatile with 75% price swings can be called a “currency”. We do believe that “BLOCK CHAIN TECHNOLOGY” is here to stay and will likely be a prominent part of our society and economy in years to come (think early internet). There is a solid chance a sound “cryptocurrency” could be born in the future-just not now. Not like this.

Buyers beware!!!!!

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November 3, 2022

Do not try and time this stock market.

It’s very difficult to predict and catch extreme highs and lows in the market. If you want to be a successful investor, be disciplined, patient and buy quality.

Unsuccessful investors are emotional and try to time the market.

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October 27, 2022

Pay attention to the rate of return on your cash, checking, savings, and emergency funds!

1-year treasury bonds exactly a year ago paid .14%. Right now, it pays 4.6%. The long-term average is 2.85%.

On a $100,000 balance that’s $140 vs $4600.00 for the year. Don’t leave money on the table.

Also, these rates will likely fall as we head toward a recession next year. If you need fixed income and rely on the payments-consider locking up some of these rates for the longer term as well (2yrs-10yrs).

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October 20, 2022

Financial Tip of the Week: Wills

Do you have a will?

When was it last updated?

Do you have your durable power of attorney in place? Have you chosen the person(s) wisely?

Is your health proxy in place? Have you selected the proper person there? Does your living will spell out your wishes very specifically?

Have the beneficiaries been updated and double-checked for your non-testamentary assets/accounts?

Should you consider a trust?

Is your estate plan where it needs to be?

Is the attorney that helped you very well versed in estate and elder care law?

These are questions you should be asking whether you are 20 or 70. Anything can happen at any time to anyone, so you should always be prepared to give yourself and your loved one's peace of mind.

Food for thought as we approach the end of 2022.

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October 13, 2022

CONSIDER A 1031 EXCHANGE

If you sell an investment property, you can defer the taxes on the gains by reinvesting the proceeds into a similar property (often of higher value) within 6 months.

But within 45 days you must choose the property you wish to buy. You’ll be required to keep the proceeds in an escrow account with your attorney until the new deal closes.

It’s also important to remember that this is a tax deferral move, not a tax-free move.

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October 6, 2022

“Whether we’re talking about socks or stocks, I like buying quality merchandise when it’s marked down.”

The goal should always be to own quality companies at a reasonable price, not mediocre companies at great prices. A bear market often gives us this opportunity.

This advice will help take many investors, especially those new to the game, to the top. We often see newcomers buy into companies at high prices just because they are well known, but they end up seeing little to no return on investment.

To make it in investing, it is best to utilize the bear market to your advantage and select low stocks from quality companies where you will see your return on investment.

An experienced financial advisor can help you pinpoint those ROI companies.

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September 29, 2022

“History provides crucial insight regarding market crisis: they are inevitable, painful, and ultimately surmountable.”- Shelby Davis

Stick to your plan. If you hold quality, it will prevail in the end!

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September 22, 2022

We have and have had for several weeks now, what’s known as an inverted yield curve. It often signals a recession is well underway.

Research, if you’re curious, but it simply means the 2-year treasury bonds are paying more than the 10-year treasury bonds. This is important for a lot of reasons but for today, there’s only one reason we want to shout from the rooftop.

Short-term yields are the highest they’ve been in many years. The 2-year bonds (100% insured) are paying over 4%, for example.

If your bank is still paying 1%, call us.

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September 15, 2022

Yes, things are volatile, but continue to stay the course and stick to your long-term plan.

Remember, you cannot accurately predict the unpredictable.

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September 8, 2022

Financial Tip of the Week: When Your Why is Big Enough

"When your why is big enough, you’ll find your how. I promise."

This is perfect advice for everyday life as well as in the investing world. There is always a reason for why you are doing what you are doing. The issue is many do not know how to get to where they want to be.

However, with your why and determination you will figure out how you can get there.

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September 1, 2022

Financial Tip of the Week: Bond Funds in 401ks

Be aware of bond funds in your 401k and personal portfolios. These funds are supposed to be your “safe” money but often they are a wolf in sheep’s clothing.

They can actually be very leveraged and expensive; underlying holdings can be junk disguised as safe.

Be aware and be educated as to what you own.

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August 25, 2022

Financial Tip of the Week: Stop looking for fast and easy results.

Stop looking for fast.

Stop searching for easy.

You’ll be absolutely blown away by what happens.

When looking for a quick and easy method of investing, it usually ends up "blowing up in your face" and you lose out. The famous saying is true, "slow and steady wins the race!"

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August 18, 2022

Financial Tip of the Week:

AVOID complex investment OR insurance products.

Many companies issue products that are complex and difficult to understand.

The very best ideas are usually simple and concrete as they can be explained quickly. If your investment requires a 200pg booklet/prospectus to understand, you’re likely to be disappointed.

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August 11, 2022

Financial Tip of the Week: Invest with Your Own Money Only!

Do not borrow money to invest in the stock market! If investing in the stock market is right for you, do it with your own money.

Avoid borrowing money from anyone including yourself (credit cards/margin loans) to speculate in stocks.

Bear markets can force selling to cover these debts at undesirable times therefore compounding the risk due to leverage.

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August 4, 2022

“Happiness is not in the mere possession of money; it lies in the joy of achievement, in the thrill of creative effort.”—Franklin D. Roosevelt

Invest in what excites you and do what you love! Seek your passions in life and the money will follow.

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July 28, 2022

“Many people take little care of their money till they come nearly to the end of it, and others do just the same with their time.”- Johann Wolfgang Von Goethe

Be focused, seek balance, and absolutely, dance before the music stops.

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July 21, 2022

A little motivation for the day. This is a quote from Sara Blakely that I’ve kept with me for years.“I could have very easily sat back and kept dreaming, wishing, and hoping. Instead, I started doing. One day became DAY ONE!!!!!!!!! - and this has made all the difference in the world. 

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July 14, 2022

Families that have accumulated substantial wealth buy assets.

Most middle-class families buy liabilities they think are assets (cars, boats, big houses, etc.).

Assets put money in your pocket while liabilities take money OUT of your pocket.

Luxury items and toys are much more fun when your assets pay for them vs your “paycheck”. Buy assets first (delayed gratification) and the things you want will come.

Which side of the balance sheet do you live on?

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July 7, 2022

As your wealth grows and the complexity of your plan with it, consider the use of a reputable and experienced CPA.

More importantly, have a tax plan as well! Most people “get their taxes done” and that’s the only communication they have with their CPA.

A couple of “planning” meetings throughout the year when your CPA has the time (not during tax season) is a great investment.

Are you leaving anything on the table?

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June 30, 2022

Since 1926, 32% of all returns generated from the S&P 500 are from the compounding reinvestment of dividends.

Yes, it’s wonderful when our stocks appreciate but DIVIDENDS MATTER! A LOT!

Dividends are usually a sign that companies have stability in their cash flow.

Dividends are great for being a part of your longer-term plans.

They a nice additional stream of income when needed without having to liquidate those positions, especially in down markets like these.

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June 23, 2022

"You can’t control the wind, but you can adjust the sails.”

With the capital markets down almost 30% and bond markets proving to be very volatile with interest rates on the upswing, it’s a very good time to consider rebalancing your portfolio to align with your long-term plan.

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June 16, 2022

“Wealth consists not in having great possessions, but in having few wants.”- Epictetus

When creating your long-term wealth plan, think deeply about what’s right for you and for your family, and don’t worry about what everyone else is doing.

You should ask yourself the following questions when creating a long-term plan:
What makes sense for you?
What is your own definition of wealth?
Are you there?

If not, what’s YOUR plan?

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June 9, 2022

Financial Tip of the Week: A little motivation for the week

Six months of incredible focus and hard work can put you five years ahead in life. Don’t underestimate the power of heart, hustle, focus, and consistency.

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May 26, 2022

“You get recessions, you have stock market declines. If you don’t understand that‘s going to happen, you won’t do well in the markets.”- Peter Lynch

When hit with recessions or a decline, you must stay the course. Economies are cyclical and will recover so make sure you are part of the recovery.

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May 19, 2022

Financial Tip of the Week: Downside Volatility

Yes, there has been a lot of downside volatility in the stock market recently.

Yes, we think there will be some very attractive opportunities in the future, however, the conservative side of your portfolio deserves significant attention right now as well.

Interest rates have risen sharply in the past 6 months and may continue to move higher. You can now attain comfortably above 3% on your bonds/CDs vs. the .3% they were paying. Use this opportunity to gradually sure up your safer assets.

Also, make sure you are being paid fairly for your savings accounts and money market as the next 2 years are not the time to leave money on the table.

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May 12, 2022

“Rule no. 1 is never losing money.
Rule no. 2is never forget rule no. 1”
- Warren Buffett

It’s perfectly normal and expected for your investments to go up AND down in value at times, however, it’s not acceptable if your money goes away.

Capital preservation should be the main priority of every investor.

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May 5, 2022

“Opportunity is missed by most people because it’s dressed in overalls and looks like work”- Thomas Edison

There is no easy path to the creation of significant wealth aside from the lotto or inheriting well. It takes really hard work, focus, patience, and perseverance. True wealth is not the accumulation of “stuff”- it’s freedom, peace of mind, and finding your joy.

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April 28, 2022

We are asked frequently- “Should I invest in Gold, Silver, or other precious metals?”.

The short answer is no. The longer answer is simply put, we do not use precious metals as an investment opportunity, but rather as an insurance policy.; they tend to provide a nice hedge in the event of inflation, currency issues, or a deep economic collapse.

No, it does not always go up in value during these times either. Gold is the standard while silver, platinum, and other metals are typically much more volatile. We recommend a portfolio weighting of 3-5% in most cases for Gold and metals.

To reiterate- Gold and metals are not widely viewed as a great long-term investment but they can be a terrific hedge against a (near) collapse or catastrophic event. Our nation is $30 trillion in debt and borrowing (at a minimum) another trillion per year just to keep the lights on. We’ll be holding some Gold for the long haul.

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April 21, 2022

Financial Tip of the Week: Hiring an Expert Realtor

Always consider using an experienced full-time realtor when engaging in the purchase or sale of any real estate.

A seasoned agent will have expert knowledge of your target market and can also provide far superior visibility to market your property, or assist in finding one.

Their service will be a more seamless transaction, as well as superior pricing, which will usually more than cover their fee. Be sure to seek a full-time agent vs one that enjoys it as a side hustle. You’ll likely benefit from the experience and the attention.

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April 14, 2022

Financial Tip of the Week: Don't Panic!

No one has ever made a dime panicking!

There will always be a better time to leave the table, so it’s best to avoid the fleeing masses.

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April 7, 2022

Financial Tip of the Week: Keep Your 401k Diversified

“Keep your 401k diversified”

Many employers use their 401(k) plans as a means of distributing company stock to employers, though there can be risks in doing so.

However, do remember Enron where more than half of Enron’s employees’ assets in the company’s 401(k) plan were in Enron stock and was almost entirely lost in 2001?

Be sure to keep your portfolio diversified inside of your 401(k).

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March 31, 2022

Financial Tip of the Week: Stocks

It’s ok to trade stocks.
It’s ok to try day trading.
It’s ok to be speculative in your Robinhood account.
It’s perfectly fine to buy the hot “POT” or “MEME” STOCKS.

However, use a very small (5-10%) of your total portfolio to do these things, and do NOT commingle these transactions with your core long-term retirement portfolio.

And last, it’s best to try these things after the markets fall and not chase the “momentum “otherwise it’s just like gambling- in the end, the casino always wins.

Be cautious out there.

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March 24, 2022

Financial Tip of the Week: Could a Recession Be Here Soon?

Americans are feeling the effects of the 40-year high inflation and asking for help from the government. Unfortunately, the Federal Reserve is unlikely to engineer a soft landing to reduce inflation without ramping up unemployment or causing a recession.

The 5-year treasury moved higher than the 10-year treasury yesterday, which is a leading indicator of sorts (inverted yield curve that a recession may be in our future. If the 2-year treasury moves higher than the 10-year we will likely be in a recession.

As always, be aware of “it’s different this time” and do not make the same mistakes that cost you before. Be cautious out there and keep your eyes open.

And yes, I hope we’re wrong.

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March 17, 2022

Financial Tip of the Week: 4 Most Dangerous Words in Investing

There are many dangerous words in the investing world, but there are none that are more fatal than these four words:

“The four most dangerous words in investing are, it’s different this time.”- Sir John Templeton

History always repeats itself!!!!!

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March 10, 2022

Financial Tip of the Week

Diversify, but don’t overdo it.

Often, investors have too many holdings that lead to redundancy and overlap, in other words, they have several funds doing the same thing or they have several stocks in the same sector.

Choose the best 1 or 2 stocks and invest in a different area and invest with a plan-one that avoids “too many holdings”. We want to avoid overlap and allow some concentration in our strongest investments.

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March 3, 2022

Financial Tip of the Week: In Investing, Profits Do Not Equal Comfort

“In investing, what is comfortable is rarely profitable.” Robert Arnott

Times of rapid change or turmoil often yield the best investment returns.

But, you must be comfortable with the amount of fluctuation in your investments.

Make sure your investments match your Risk Tolerance so you are not panic selling during emotional times

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February 24, 2022

Do not try to time the market!

Never in the history of the “stock market” has there been anyone that could accurately predict the short-term direction of the capital markets.

Do not try and be the first. Be sure to have a well-constructed plan and stick with it and rebalance it when necessary.

Avoid emotional transactions; expect downturns rather than reacting to them.

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February 17, 2022

Tip of the Week: Start Investing Today!

The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second-best time is today.

Start investing early as well as teach and encourage your children and grandchildren to do the same. Never underestimate the power of compound interest!

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February 3, 2022

Tip of the Week: Proper Investing = Time & Patience

“Investing should be more like watching paint dry or grass grow. If you want excitement, take $800 and go to Las Vegas.”- Paul Samuelson

If you think investing is the same as gambling, you’re doing it wrong. The work involved requires patience and planning, though the gains you see over the long run, however, are quite exciting.

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February 3, 2022

Financial Tip of the week: Understanding Investing

It’s imperative as an investor for your own future and financial well-being to fully understand what you're investing in and what you're buying.

If you don’t understand the investment or have no idea what the company does, then you’re not investing, you’re speculating. Yes, you can “win the bet” sometimes, but it is not a sound long-term, wealth-building strategy. Rolling the dice is fun, but your investment policy statement is for real.

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January 27, 2022

Financial Tip of the Week: Do not sell stocks/equities in a down-market cycle.

If your investment policy statement and asset allocation plan are well constructed, you shouldn’t have to sell even if you’re taking income.

Would you list your home if the housing market goes south? So why sell stocks in a bear market if you don’t need to?

If the plan is quality and the investments are good quality, wait it out.

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January 20, 2022

Investing Smart in the Long-term Is NOT Gambling!

Many investment firms hear from their clients that investing is a gamble just like playing the lottery. This cannot be farther from the truth.

Sound long-term investing is not gambling as long as you invest in companies or indices that are not in “hot stocks of the week”.

Also, DO NOT borrow money to invest in the stock market!

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January 13, 2022

“Individuals who cannot master their emotions are ill-suited to profit from the investment process.”

-Benjamin Graham, Father of Value Investing

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Thursday, January 6, 2022

Everyone always panics when they hear the market will be a bear market, however, there is not a need to panic.

“You make most of your money in a bear market, you just don’t realize it at the time.”- Shelby Cullom Davis

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Thursday, December 30, 2021

Be careful of any kind of annuity!

Annuities are rarely a good deal as they are loaded with massive hidden costs and are layered in complication.

If your investment “problem” is best solved by having an annuity as a tool, then buy one through a fee-only fiduciary rather than through a broker-dealer. Buying through a fee-only fiduciary will at least cut the costs significantly and increase transparency.

If you already have an annuity, consult with a fiduciary on whether or not that product should be held, liquidated or rolled tax-deferred (section 1035 exchange) into something far more cost effective.

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Thursday, December 23, 2021

WILLDURABLE POWER OF ATTORNEYHEALTH CARE PROXY

Do you have each one of these crucial decision making components and keep them regularly updated?Did you have a professional Elder Care/ Estate Planning Attorneydraft up the documents to ensure every important detail and matter is included?Life happens, but you are still able to have your wishes kept when it comes to important matters.These items will help you to leave your legacy and provide peace of mind for you and your loved ones.

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Thursday, December 16, 2021

“Be fearful when others are greedy. Be greedy when others are fearful.”- Warren Buffett. Chairman, Berkshire Hathaway

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Thursday, December 9, 2021

INFLATION IS HERE!- Avoid being overcautious in your investment approach, especially as inflation rates continue to rise.

Simply put: if your "bank account" is yielding .25% in interest and inflation is 3.5%, you are LOSING money (or purchasing power).

You are most likely under the impression that your funds are "safe", but in reality, you're losing 3% per year. The long-term effects of this, specifically for seniors with a fixed income, can be devastating.

Consider buying some assets along with continuing to save in the bank to help offset the impact of inflation. Some examples of these assets are:

1. Stocks with Pricing Power
2. Real Estate
3. Commodities/Metals
4.Gold
5.Inflation Protected Treasuries
6.Series I Bonds (nod to Dave T.)

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Thursday, November 22, 2021

While the Fed has repeatedly stated the inflation we’re seeing is “transitory” or temporary, we believe it’s wise to consider the alternative. What happens if it’s not temporary? What will you do to prepare for the first real inflationary trend we’ve seen in almost 40 years?

Tip of the week: Consider Treasury Inflation Protected Securities (TIPS) (these are a form of U.S. Treasury Bonds designed to help protect investors from inflation), gold, or other strategies to keep long-term purchasing power on par with inflation.