The Federal Reserve’s decision to lower its policy rate is an important monetary policy action with ripple effects across borrowing costs, financial markets, and the broader economy. This article gives a clear, general, educational overview of how a rate cut works, how it typically interacts with mortgage rates, bonds, stocks, and what to watch next.

In today’s digital world, financial advice is just a swipe away. TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube are flooded with “finfluencers”—social media personalities who share tips on budgeting, investing, and building wealth. While some offer helpful insights, many lack professional credentials or regulatory oversight. And that’s where the risk begins.

First responders face compressed career timelines, unique benefit structures, and occupational risks that change how retirement and legacy planning should be approached. This article lays out practical and relevant steps first responders and their families can use to organize benefits, evaluate options, and prepare essential estate documents.

 If you’re exploring ways to support the causes you care about while managing your taxable income, a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) may fit your goals. This direct IRA-to-charity transfer can satisfy your required minimum distribution (RMD) and remove the gifted amount from your adjusted gross income—helping you give more, potentially pay less tax, and simplify year-end planning.

Estate planning guides how assets may be distributed and decisions managed if you’re unable to act. Misunderstandings about wills, trusts, and beneficiary designations can expose families to probate delays, unintended heirs, and added expenses. Below are six pervasive myths, the potential impacts, and actions you can take to address them.

When it comes to inheritance planning, one of the most common questions I hear is: “Should I pass wealth through my retirement accounts, or are there better vehicles to consider?” The answer depends on your goals, your beneficiaries, and the tax implications involved. Let’s break it down.

A “set it and forget it” approach can leave you with outdated coverage. Market shifts, tax-law changes, and evolving goals call for a fresh look every 2–3 years—or after any major life change.

Life insurance is often viewed as a contingency plan — something to consider “just in case.” But when thoughtfully integrated, it can serve as a versatile component of a broader financial strategy. From estate liquidity to business continuity, life insurance offers planning advantages that extend well beyond the death benefit.

Life Insurance Isn’t One-Size-Fits-All

Choosing the right life insurance coverage isn’t just about picking a number — it’s about aligning with your life stage, goals, and financial responsibilities. Whether you’re just starting out or planning your legacy, your coverage should reflect where you are today and where you’re headed tomorrow.

Life insurance is one of the most important — and often overlooked — components of a sound financial plan. September’s Life Insurance Awareness Month is a timely reminder to review your coverage and ensure it still aligns with your goals.

A Buy-Sell Agreement defines the “who” and “how” of ownership transfers. Funding determines “when” and “with what resources” that transfer occurs. Without a clear funding plan, even a well-drafted agreement can leave owners scrambling for cash and delay transitions.

When business owners plan for succession or unexpected departures, Buy-Sell Agreements play a critical role. Two common structures—Cross-Purchase Agreements and Entity Purchase Agreements—offer distinct approaches to transferring ownership. Understanding their mechanics helps ensure your strategy aligns with your business’s size, goals, and funding capabilities.

A Buy-Sell Agreement is a legally binding contract that outlines how ownership interests in a business will be transferred in the event of a triggering event—such as death, disability, retirement, or voluntary exit of an owner. It helps establish expectations and reduce potential disputes among partners or shareholders.

Annuities often get a bad rap—clients worry about high fees, lack of liquidity, and inflexible terms. Separating fact from fiction empowers smarter retirement decisions. This week, we debunk five widespread annuity myths and show you what really matters.

The passage of the “Big Beautiful Bill” brings the most significant tax and planning shifts since 2017. Whether you’re nearing retirement, already enjoying your golden years, or running a small business, these changes can reshape your approach to income, savings, and legacy planning. Here’s your concise guide to the provisions that matter most—and how to turn them into opportunities.

Navigating today’s financial landscape can feel like walking a tightrope. Rising interest rates, inflationary pressures, and geopolitical risks all contribute to market whipsaw. Preservation is just as important as growth for pre-retirees and retirees. Below are four strategies—including annuities—that can help you shore up your retirement plan without sacrificing flexibility.

Effective planning transforms a thriving business into a lasting legacy. Business owners juggle growth, operations, and market challenges—but without a clear exit and succession roadmap, years of hard work can unravel. This guide lays out practical steps to plan your interests, maintain continuity, and optimize the transfer of value when you’re ready to move on.

Retirement marks the transition from accumulating assets to drawing on savings. Without a clear withdrawal strategy, retirees risk depleting their nest egg too soon, facing unexpected tax burdens, or missing out on legacy goals. A structured plan for distributions helps balance cash flow, longevity of assets, and tax efficiency.

As we wrap up Annuity Awareness Month, we've explored the fundamentals of annuities, potential benefits and considerations, and how they compare with other retirement tools. In this final week’s article, we’ll focus on what individuals should consider when evaluating annuity options and how to approach the selection process with clarity and care.