Articles Library

Contributed By: Brian Sak, CFP, CLU, ChFC Estate planning is often viewed as a task to be handled "later." For many successful individuals and families, it’s easy to deprioritize because it involves difficult conversations—about incapacity, mortality, and control. Yet, the absence of a structured plan doesn’t defer those outcomes. It simply removes your voice from them. At Granite Harbor Advisors,…

Contributed By: Caleb Christian, CFP, CLU, ChFC Family trusts play a critical role in preserving wealth across generations, mitigating legal risks, and supporting financial security goals for beneficiaries. However, the effectiveness of a family trust depends on how it is structured. An improperly designed trust may expose assets to unnecessary taxation, legal disputes, or creditor claims. For high-net-worth…

Contributed By: Timothy Smith, CFP Retirement marks a new chapter in life, one filled with opportunities to enjoy the fruits of decades of hard work. However, this stage also comes with the reality that our bodies and minds change as we age, making health an essential pillar of a fulfilling retirement. Being proactive about your health as you approach retirement isn’t just about avoiding illness—it’s…

Contributed By: Tom Kelly, MBA For many business owners, their company is more than an asset—it is a legacy. It represents years, often decades, of hard work, sacrifices, and deep personal investment. As a result, succession planning is not just a financial or operational decision; it is an emotional one. While the technical aspects of business transition—valuation, tax strategies, legal structures—are…

Contributed By: Pijus Bulvinas, CFP Periods of market volatility often generate unease for even the most seasoned investors. News cycles filled with uncertainty and swiftly changing market conditions can trigger emotional decision making, leading to actions that may harm long-term financial outcomes. During these times, one principle has consistently proven its importance: disciplined asset allocation. Asset…

Contributed By: Tim Smith, CFP New IRS rules on donor-advised funds could reshape charitable giving strategies for high net worth families. Philanthropy has long been a cornerstone of wealth stewardship among high net worth families. Whether motivated by a commitment to legacy, community impact, or tax efficiency, charitable giving plays a critical role in many estate and financial planning strategies.…

Authored by: Austin Manning, CFP Market volatility is an unavoidable reality for investors, particularly high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) who have substantial assets exposed to financial fluctuations. While these shifts can create unease, they also bring potential for reassessment and repositioning within a well-structured investment framework. Addressing market turbulence effectively requires a…

Contributed by: Dale Shaw, CFP, RICP For high-net-worth individuals, managing investments independently might seem like a cost saving strategy. However, without professional oversight, even the most financially savvy individuals can fall into costly traps. Investment mismanagement can lead to missed opportunities, excessive risk exposure, and significant tax inefficiencies. Here’s why DIY investing…

Authored By: Brian Sak, CFP, CLU, ChCF In early 2025, a new wave of tariff policy updates has unsettled global markets. As trade rhetoric intensifies between the United States and major economies—including China and the European Union—investors are once again contending with heightened volatility, fluctuating commodity prices, and geopolitical uncertainty. While headlines focus on the noise of tariffs…