The SEC has just passed a new regulation called the “best interest standard.” The title of the rule — and the public self-congratulations — are designed to reassure investors that all brokers are suddenly required to put their clients’ interests ahead of their own. In reality, nothing could be farther from the truth! The new […]
As America ages, it’s likely that more people will inherit substantial Individual Retirement Accounts. What you do next will make a big difference in your own financial future. Yet, few people leave instructions for their named beneficiaries about the best course of action. Fortunately, there are financial planners who are trained IRA experts, taught by […]
In a recent column, I mentioned the importance of tax planning for your retirement assets. We are living in a time of relatively low historic income tax rates, and as our national debt grows and political considerations change, it’s not unlikely that tax rates will rise in the future. It’s always been the conventional wisdom […]
“Chicken money” is money you can’t afford to lose. It’s that simple. The amount of chicken money you need depends on your overall financial situation, stage in life, and risk tolerance. Just about everyone needs some money that is not intended for ordinary spending and not part of your investment program. Chicken money should be […]
Investors beware! An appellate court just ruled that the Fiduciary Rule is dead – before it was even fully implemented in an attempt to protect your retirement savings. A lot of people are after your money – especially if you are one of the millions of Americans who will be retiring and rolling over your […]
After nine years of a bull market, your 40l(k) retirement plan is likely your largest financial asset, perhaps even dwarfing the value of your home. Yet, while you pay attention to home repairs, you many not spend much time inspecting your retirement plan. For sure, you should be contributing the maximum to get your employer’s […]
Obamacare survived the political process. The big question is whether middle income Americans can afford to buy a policy. And millions are saying they can’t. Here are some suggestions.
On Feb. 3 Trump also signed a presidential memorandum instructing the Labor secretary to evaluate a specific regulation placed on financial advisers. Known as the fiduciary rule, it requires brokers in charge of retirement plans to act in their clients best interest. The rule is set to take effect on April 10, but that may […]
