The credit rating agency sends up a flare and hopes for action on Capitol Hill. Pessimism over America’s ability to reduce its deficit. When one of the world’s premier credit rating agencies issues a warning for America, global stock markets dip. On April 18, Standard &...
How about $6? $7? When will we see relief? How high will pump prices go this summer? Many analysts think we will pay $5 a gallon for gas this summer – and some think gas will cost much more than that. On April 20, the AAA’s...
Are you taking full advantage of your company’s 401(k)? The 401(k) plan is one of the most widely-utilized wealth creation tools offered Americans. These retirement savings plans have several advantages, including dollar cost averaging, tax savings and tax deferral. However, one of the most powerful advantages...
When it comes to 401(k), what are your options? In the past year or so, we’ve seen some interesting options emerge for 401(k) account holders … “new wrinkles” that everyone with a 401(k) should be aware of, regardless of whether you’re contributing $50 a month or...
A cottage industry of condescending books doesn’t address the real issue. Why do we cling to the myth that women don’t understand money as well as men? If you look at the personal finance books out right now, some of the titles might convince you that women need...
Historically, these events tend to help equities. You may have heard that stocks tend to rally in fall and winter. That has often been the case. In fact, the S&P 500 and the Dow have gained repeatedly after the elections occurring in the third year of...
It may be the best retirement planning tool you have. Do you have a million dollars? At the moment, probably not. But if you invest and save diligently and let your assets compound, who knows? You may be a millionaire someday. In fact, you may need...
Is your investment strategy as socially and environmentally conscious as you are? It’s not uncommon … Many a well-educated, socially conscious, environmentally friendly investor winds up buying shares of companies whose beliefs and business practices are far removed from their own. Why? Most investors simply haven’t...
If you’re going to say “I do”, here are some things you might want to do. Are you marrying soon? Have you recently married? As you begin your life together, it's important for you to start planning your financial future together and putting your finances on...
It may be better to sell that big home rather than keep it. You want to retire, and you own a large home that is nearly or fully paid off. The kids are gone, but the upkeep costs haven’t fallen. Should you retire and keep your...