Importance of Tax Planning alongside Investment Management
Discover the power of strategic tax planning and investment with Custer Financial Advisors. Learn how we craft personalized tax strategies to help minimize your lifetime tax burden.
Retirement Contribution Limits for 2024: What You Need to Know
The IRS has released the retirement contribution limits for 2024. Learn about the different limits for 401(k)s, IRAs, and HSAs, and tips for saving for retirement.
Fed Leaves Rates Unchanged, Keeping Door Open for Future Hikes
The Federal Reserve left interest rates unchanged at its November meeting, but kept the door open for future hikes as inflation remains high. Chair Jerome Powell said the Fed is still determining the lagged effects of its current policy and will continue to be "highly attentive to inflation risks." The Fed is also weighing the impact of its policy on financial and credit conditions, which have tightened significantly in recent months.
The Two Faces of Debt
Understanding Good Versus Bad Debt Can Help You Make Smart Financial Moves
End-of-Year Financial Planning Tips: Set Yourself Up for Success in 2024
It's hard to believe, but 2023 is almost over! Before the new year begins, it's important to take some time to review your financial plan and make any necessary adjustments. By following these simple tips, you can set yourself up for financial success in 2024.
Winning the Long Game: Tax Planning
Tax planning is not a one-time thing. It's an ongoing process that can help you save money over the course of your life. Learn how to choose the right investment accounts, use Roth conversions and tax-loss harvesting, and plan for your estate to minimize your tax liability.
The Growing Emphasis on Attitude and Character in Hiring
In today's competitive job market, employers are increasingly prioritizing attitude and character over skills. This is because attitude and character are essential for long-term success in the workplace. Employees with a positive attitude and strong character are more likely to be satisfied with their jobs, be adaptable to change, and contribute to the company's growth. When hiring, it's important to consider both skills and attitude and character to find the best candidates for your team.
Inflation Coming Down, But Remains Above Fed's Target: What Investors Need to Know
The September CPI data shows that inflation is slowing, but remains above the Fed's target. Shelter costs were the largest contributor to headline inflation in September, but this is expected to moderate in the coming months. Core inflation excluding shelter was unchanged from the previous month and up only 1.9% from a year ago. Investors should watch oil prices for insight into how the Fed will act at the December meeting.
Corporate Debt Downgrades on the Rise: What Investors Need to Know
Corporate debt downgrades are on the rise, with rating agencies adjusting their outlooks based on the expected increase in debt payments. This is having a negative impact on high-yield bonds, which have taken the brunt of downgrades and are likely to continue to do so in the coming quarters. Investors need to be aware of these risks and take steps to protect their portfolios.
Utilities are Oversold, but is the Selling Over?
The utilities sector has come under increased selling pressure as rising interest rates have made their dividend yields less appealing to investors. Higher rates also translate into higher funding and refinancing costs for the sector. While the sector is extremely oversold and retesting a secular uptrend, a trend change in interest rates will likely be required before the sector finds a bottom.
Bull Market Check-Up
The S&P 500 wrapped up the first year of the bull market yesterday with a gain of 21.6%. While this performance was historically underwhelming, it is understandable given the challenging backdrop of global tightening, surging interest rates, elevated equity valuations, sticky inflation, and imminent recession calls.
Financial Planning for a Meaningful Life: Why Your "Why" Matters More Than Your Net Worth
Financial planning is not just about numbers. It's about creating a life that is meaningful to you. By focusing on your "why" and defining your financial goals, you can create a financial plan that will help you to achieve your financial goals and live a meaningful life.
A financial plan doesn't mean no fun: It's supposed to help you feel comfortable spending money on the things you love
Having a financial plan doesn't mean no fun! Learn how to reduce your fixed costs, increase your income, and invest in yourself so you can still enjoy the things you love.
3 Things to Consider When Evaluating Life Insurance Needs for Families
Life insurance is an important part of financial planning for families. Here are three things to consider when evaluating your life insurance needs: immediate needs, future lump sum needs, and annual income needs for survivors.
Why diversification in your investment portfolio is a key attribute to investment success
Diversification is the practice of spreading your investments across different asset classes, industries, and geographies. It's one of the most important things you can do to reduce your investment risk and increase your chances of success.
Don't Let Emotions Hinder and Set Your Financial Future Back!
Emotions can play a powerful role in our financial decisions, both for good and for bad. If we're not careful, our emotions can lead us to make impulsive decisions that we later regret.
The Impact of Inflation on Your Financial Plan
Inflation is the rate at which prices for goods and services increase over time. It can have a significant impact on your financial plan, especially if you're saving for retirement. When inflation is high, your money buys less than it did before, meaning you need to save more to reach your financial goals.
Find the Right Retirement Plan for Your Self-Employed Business
Self-employed? Don't miss out on these three great retirement plan investment options! The solo 401(k), SIMPLE IRA, and SEP IRA can help you save for your future and enjoy a comfortable retirement. Learn more in this article
Maximizing Savings and Health Benefits with HSA (Health Savings Account)
Learn how to use a Health Savings Account (HSA) to save money on healthcare costs. Discover how to pay for qualified medical expenses with your HSA, invest your HSA funds for growth, and transition your HSA to an IRA in retirement.