Contributed by: Brian W. Sak, CFP, CLU, ChFC Probate is often a time consuming and costly process that can create unnecessary stress for your loved ones. For families and individuals with significant assets, avoiding probate is a strategic way to facilitate a smoother transition of wealth. By incorporating thoughtful estate planning techniques, you can protect your heirs, preserve privacy for the family,…

Many people think of life insurance in rather uninspired terms. They generally consider it a liability and an expense that shows up in cash flow projections, not a true asset. This is sometimes why investors will surrender a policy or let one lapse. But before doing either of those things, policyholders should consider a life settlement. When used strategically as part of a comprehensive financial…

Contributed by: Tom Kelley, MBA For many business owners, their company represents years of dedication, vision, and effort. Planning for the continuity of your business after your exit is not just about protecting your legacy; it’s about ensuring the stability of the company, the well-being of its employees, and the financial security of your family. Yet, many entrepreneurs delay this critical planning…

Contributed by: Austin Manning, CFP For high-net-worth individuals, achieving financial success is only the beginning. Preserving and growing wealth, mitigating risk, and ensuring a lasting legacy require a strategic and customized approach to financial planning. While cookie cutter solutions, AI tools, and robo-investor support may work for the average investor, affluent individuals often require…

our-firm/our-team/nicholas-e-gonzalez Private aviation is often seen as the ultimate symbol of success, efficiency, and convenience. For individuals and families with significant wealth, the decision to use private aviation is less about luxury and more about optimizing time, ensuring safety, and maintaining privacy. Yet, a critical question remains: should you lease or buy a private aircraft? This…

Contributed by: Pijus Bulvinas, CFP Financial literacy has long been a cornerstone of individual and family success. Yet, as financial markets grow more complex and life expectancy increases, equipping the next generation with financial knowledge has never been more critical. This isn’t a matter of teaching children to save their allowance; it’s about preparing them to navigate an intricate web of…

Contributed by: Caleb Christian, CFP, CLU, ChFC Real estate has long been a cornerstone of wealth building strategies for investors, offering the potential for income generation, capital appreciation, and diversification. However, like any investment, it is not without its risks. Managing these risks effectively requires a proactive approach and careful planning to safeguard your wealth and optimize…

Contributed by: Dale Shaw, CFP, RICP As wealth advisors, one of the most common questions we address involves the value of Roth conversions as part of a comprehensive financial strategy. While Roth conversions can be a powerful tool for tax efficient retirement planning, they are not a one size fits all solution. It’s essential to weigh the advantages and disadvantages carefully, considering your unique…

Contributed by: Timothy B. Smith, CFP Charitable giving is a core value for many high-net-worth families, corporate executives, and small business owners. Whether driven by a desire to leave a legacy, engage the next generation in philanthropy, or simply support causes they care about, strategic charitable planning allows individuals to maximize their impact while taking advantage of significant tax…