Tag: financial advisor charlotte nc

FAFSA Simplification Act

Jun 18, 2021

As a parent or grandparent, you know firsthand the challenges of funding a child’s education. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) Act was passed at the end of 2020 and has changed some of the qualifications for students to receive financial aid. (more…)

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Inflation & the Real Rate of Return

Jun 16, 2021

The real rate of return is an important personal finance concept to understand. And it goes hand-in-hand with the rate of inflation.

It’s the rate of return on your investments after inflation. The real rate of return indicates whether you are gaining or losing purchasing power with your money. (more…)

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Are You Ready for the Second Act of the Secure Act?

Jun 14, 2021

Secure Act
Some potential benefits are coming

Recently, you may have seen headlines regarding the Securing a Strong Retirement Act, also referred to as the second version of the SECURE Act, or SECURE Act 2.0. (more…)

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Inflation Outlook for 2021

May 31, 2021

As our nation continues to recover from the effects of COVID-19, one economic trend has been capturing news attention as of late – inflation. Consumer prices are rising amidst economic recovery. In fact, the Consumer Price Index (CPI) rose 0.8% in April 2021, jumping by a greater-than-expected 4.2% year-over-year.1 (more…)

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Inflation Can Be a Scary Word

May 21, 2021

Inflation can be a scary word for people who are retired. It’s code for “prices are going up, but my income may stay the same.” (more…)

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It’s All About Bonds

Apr 12, 2021

There’s an old Wall Street maxim that says, “markets climb a wall of worry.” And these days, there’s plenty to worry about with the trend in long-term interest rates and bonds. (more…)

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Volatility Tests Your Mettle

Mar 15, 2021

Reflecting on Stock Market Volatility
Some changes may be unsettling

Most people understand that stock prices don’t go straight up. But when market volatility increases, the price action can test the mettle of even the most seasoned investor.

In recent weeks, stock prices have trended lower with a few eye-popping, one-day rallies as the financial markets appear to adjust to higher interest rates on long-term Treasuries. Since the beginning of the year, we’ve seen a jump in the yield of the 10-year treasury. (more…)

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Changes to Paycheck Protection Program

Mar 5, 2021

On Monday, Feb. 22, the White House announced several changes to the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) that went into effect on Wednesday, Feb. 24. These changes are intended to further target “the smallest businesses and those that have been left behind in previous relief efforts.”1

If you’re a small business owner in need of financial assistance, you may find these changes helpful in securing a Paycheck Protection Program loan: (more…)

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Oil Prices on the Move

Feb 19, 2021

At this time last year, it was still unknown that a deadly global pandemic was on the rise, eventually stalling economic growth and sending crude oil prices into negative territory. But recently, oil prices have surged, with crude hitting highs not seen since before the pandemic. (more…)

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Economic Predictions: What Lies Ahead?

Feb 17, 2021

It can be easy to overlook the nation’s solid economic fundamentals when the financial media splashes stories every day about an army of amateur traders, short-selling mania, and initial public offerings (IPOs) that double in price on the first day of trading.

But a recent survey by The Wall Street Journal showed just how upbeat economists are about 2021.1

Here’s a quick summary of the highlights. (more…)

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More Insights

Market Update – Assessing the Technical Damange
Jul 26, 2024

Key Takeaways Volatility came back with a vengeance this week as selling pressure in the mega cap space dragged down the broader market. Counterbalancing weakness in these heavyweight names poses a challenge for the rest of the market. Overbought conditions can also be blamed for the recent weakness. The S&P 500 reached a 14.9% premium … Continue reading “Market Update – Assessing the Technical Damange”

Can You Use Life Insurance for Charitable Giving?
Jul 24, 2024

Life insurance can be an excellent tool for charitable giving. Not only does life insurance allow you to make a substantial gift to charity at relatively little cost to you, but you may also benefit from tax rules that apply to gifts of life insurance.

Social Security Survivor Benefits
Jul 22, 2024

When you think of Social Security, you probably think of retirement. However, Social Security can also provide much-needed income to your family members when you die, making their financial lives easier. Your family members may be eligible to receive survivor benefits if you worked, paid Social Security taxes, and earned enough work credits. The number … Continue reading “Social Security Survivor Benefits”

Making Investment Choices
Jul 19, 2024

Information vs. instinct. When it comes to investment choices, many people believe they have a “knack” for choosing good investments. But what exactly is that “knack” based on? The fact is, the choices we make with our assets can be strongly influenced by factors, many of them emotional, that we may not even be aware … Continue reading “Making Investment Choices”

Retirement Plans for Small Businesses
Jul 17, 2024

As a business owner, you should carefully consider the advantages of establishing an employer-sponsored retirement plan. Generally, you’re allowed certain tax benefits for establishing an employer-sponsored retirement plan, including a tax credit for establishing the plan and a deduction for contributions you make. In return, however, you’re required to include certain employees in the plan, … Continue reading “Retirement Plans for Small Businesses”

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