Stock market historians may dub 2017 the Xanax year. Traditional historians will probably choose a different moniker. Stock markets in many advanced economies have been unusually calm during 2017, reported Schwab’s Jeffrey Kleintop in a May 15, 2017 commentary. The CBOE Volatility Index, a.k.a. the Fear Gauge, which measures how volatile investors believe the S&P […]
We are all, inexorably, marching toward old age. By 2030, 72 million Americans will be age 65 or older.1 The good news is longevity has been improving, and people are remaining healthy and vibrant at older ages. The bad news is cultural perceptions of ‘old’ people have not kept pace. A 2016 analysis by the […]
The bull market in U.S. stocks is getting really old! In fact, this bull has been charging, standing, or sitting for more than eight years. In April, it became the second longest bull market in American history, according to CNN Money. There are some good reasons the stock market in the United States has continued […]
Leaving an employer? Six Options for Retirement Plan Funds Accepting a new job or transitioning into retirement can be both exciting and overwhelming. Figuring out how to handle your current employer’s retirement plan funds may not be at the top of your priority list, but with several options to consider, it’s crucial that you take […]
You may have heard of the Net Unrealized Appreciation tax break, but it’s important to fully understand the impact it can have on your taxes. If you own company stock in your employer-sponsored retirement plan and you’re looking to roll it over to an IRA, this tax break can create significant savings. However, rather than […]
Deciding how to handle your inherited IRA once your spouse passes can be a daunting task, especially during an emotional time of loss. With three different options available, how do you know which one best fits you and your financial situation? Your age and that of your spouse typically plays the largest role in making […]
Do you need to withdraw funds from your IRA or company plan, but you’re not yet eligible to do so? Even though most investors are required to wait until they reach age 59½, there are some special circumstances that can allow you to access your funds while still avoiding the 10% early distribution penalty. While […]
If you’ve recently received a tax refund, you may be looking for the best way to invest your money. What if you could utilize an option that is both convenient and helps fund your future? April 18 is not just the tax-filing deadline, but it’s also the IRA-funding deadline, and if you haven’t yet maxed […]
Are you thinking of naming a trust as your IRA beneficiary? You might want to reconsider making this move, unless you’re doing it for the right reasons. While naming a trust as your IRA beneficiary can add protections and provisions for how your hard-earned money is used, it can also make things more complicated and […]