Last time we looked at three economic problems that loom large on our nation’s horizon: debt, demographics, and decisions. Lured by the economic steroid of borrowed money, we’ve accumulated debt as if we’d never have to re-pay the proverbial piper (i.e., the bank). Politically, Social Security is known as the “third rail” of politics. The […]
4 Ways to Respond to America’s Economic Situation Read More »
Most parents eventually think, “College…oh yeah…what’s THAT going to cost?” Smart question to ask—and answer—ASAP. (Have you checked the price of higher education lately?) According to SoFi, as of the 2022-23 school year, a four-year degree from Harvard (tuition, books, and all other expenses) now runs $334,152. If you want to tack on a degree
How to Pay for College Read More »
Visit a small town coffeeshop one morning this week. Listen in on the conversation. It won’t be long before someone starts grousing about financial institutions. “Can you believe we’re bailing out banks AGAIN? Why are we giving money to a bunch of billionaire bankers! You ask me…I’m ready to do away with ALL financial institutions!”
Can We Trust the Big Financial Institutions? Read More »
As a financial advisor, I hear these complaints all the time: All of these comments reflect a faulty mindset. They are looking at the “savings problem” from the wrong end of things. You see, it’s all but impossible to cut back when you see everything you buy as “essential.” You can waste a lot of
Don’t Confuse Symbolism with Substance When Trying to Save Money Read More »
Most people I know have taken at least one of these famous “personality tests”: It could be that you’re a “high D” or an INTJ or an Enneagram 3. Whatever the case, these assorted assessments (and all the others like them) are a fascinating reminder of just how differently we’re wired. And it’s not just
What’s Your Retirement Income ‘Personality’? Read More »
A client recently asked this question: I’ve got some money I’d like to leave to my grandkids. I want it to grow, but I’m not comfortable putting it at risk in the market. Meanwhile, safer investments like CDs seem like they’re barely keeping up with inflation. Do you have any suggestions? It’s a classic case
A Question About Safe Money Read More »
A car breaks down on the side of the highway. The couple can’t remember the last time they had an oil change. A man lies nervously in pre-op awaiting a heart-lung transplant. He recalls his first cigarette and wishes he’d never started smoking. A couple wrangles in divorce court, arguing bitterly over custody and property.
Preparing Beats Repairing Read More »
“I should get on a budget.” Ever say that? It’s really an admission that budgeting isn’t easy or fun. (If it were, everyone would be doing it, right?) So, if you’re one of those who doesn’t have a budget, why bother trying to create and live by one? Because having a firm spending plan—which is
Budgeting isn’t “Rocket Surgery” Read More »
In my 100% polyester, off-white leisure suit with its bell-bottomed pants and extra wide lapels, I thought I was hot stuff. My lime green nylon shirt sported a lion’s head on the back. My ensemble was made complete with platform shoes and a puka shell necklace. Oh, and I should mention my hair—blown dry and
Falling for Financial Fads? Read More »
No matter why I go see my doctor, he always does a few things first. Whether I’m complaining of cold or flu symptoms, or getting an annual physical, he first listens to my heartbeat, assesses my breathing (with an extra cold stethoscope), and looks down my throat, up my nose, through my ears, and into
Time for a Fiscal Physical? Read More »
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