Contributed by: Timothy Smith, CFP® In the current landscape, philanthropy offers a significant opportunity for individuals to make a meaningful impact within their communities and beyond. To maximize the benefits of charitable giving, it is essential that these endeavors align with one's personal values and long-term goals. With over 25 years of experience in financial planning and philanthropy, I…

Authored by: Nicholas M. Brown, CFA, CFP® We are just a few short days away from Election Day, where the United States will elect its next President, the entire House of Representatives, and a third of the US Senate seats. This election cycle has seen a swirl of political activity unlike any other previous election cycle. It is not uncommon for election seasons to bring uncertainty, speculation, and…

Contributed by: Brian Sak CFP®, CLU®, ChFC® Navigating the seemingly endless tax regulations can feel daunting, especially for high-net-worth families and business owners striving to preserve and protect generational wealth. According to the book "Preparing Heirs: Five Steps to a Successful Transition of Family Wealth and Values", 90% of family wealth is dissipated by the third generation. Ineffective…

Contributed by: Tom Kelley, MBA In the dynamic world of business, continuity and stability are paramount. Business owners often face the challenge of safeguarding their enterprise against unforeseen events that can disrupt operations. One of the most effective tools in ensuring business continuity is the buy-sell agreement. This strategic legal document is essential for protecting your business from…

Authored by: Austin Manning, CFP® In recent years, the financial landscape has witnessed a significant uptick in the size of Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs), with balances reaching unprecedented levels in 2024. This trend is not just a statistical anomaly but a reflection of several contributing factors that have converged to shape retirement planning in profound ways. Factors Driving Growth…

Contributed by: Dale Shaw, CFP®, RICP® High-income earners face a pivotal aspect of their retirement planning—understanding and managing the Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount (IRMAA) surcharge associated with Medicare. This surcharge, which can significantly increase Medicare costs, is a crucial consideration for those in higher income brackets. This article aims to demystify the nuances of…

Contributed by: Tom Kelley, MBA As an executive in the oil and gas industry, particularly for leading companies like ConocoPhillips, Exxon, or BP, strategic financial planning is essential to managing your wealth effectively. One powerful tool that may be available to you is Net Unrealized Appreciation (NUA), a tax strategy that could significantly enhance your retirement distribution plans. In this…

In the realm of private equity investing, a comprehensive understanding of the intricacies of the J-Curve is essential for investors aiming to optimize their portfolios. The J-Curve serves as a graphical representation of the typical return trajectory experienced by private equity funds, illustrating the initial dip in returns followed by a substantial rise as investments mature. This phenomenon is…

By: Brian Sak CFP®, CLU®, ChFC® Selling your business is a monumental milestone, often accompanied by a wave of emotions and critical financial decisions. For many exiting business owners, this moment represents both the culmination of years of hard work and the start of a new chapter. But what happens after you've shaken hands on the deal? In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through the essential…