ChartTalk: The U.S. federal budget deficit is growing—and threatens to expand further with recent proposals in Congress. The infographic illustrates the sources of federal revenues and the programs to which those monies flow. What makes up America’s ballooning federal budget deficit? The gap between federal revenue and expenditures is widening, as illustrated in the graphic below. […]
America’s $1.8 Trillion Federal Deficit Read More »
The Social Security Administration’s “death master file” has been in the news. It serves as a reminder that you can help clients who lose a spouse—by knowing how to claim Social Security benefits in the event of a death. The Social Security Administration’s death master file has been in the news lately, first in
Claiming Social Security: In Case of Death Read More »
Born in 1930, Warren Buffett’s foray into the stock market began at the age of 11 when he purchased three shares of Cities Service for $38 each, according to CNBC. The stock briefly dipped, then rebounded to $40. He sold and booked a small profit. After the sale, young Warren stood on the sidelines as
Lessons From a Legendary Investor Read More »
Aggressive tariff policies triggered significant market volatility amid a sharp early April selloff, which was followed by a sharp rebound when the most severe tariffs were delayed. More recently, the market’s relatively muted reaction to tariff headlines suggests that investors are anticipating a reduction in trade tensions. At the very least, they do not foresee
Stocks rebound amid tariff threats Read More »
The U.S. House has taken one step toward passing a massive tax and spending-cut bill that would still add to ongoing deficits. Action now moves to the Senate. Here are 10 things to know about the legislation that could affect you. The U.S. House of Representatives narrowly passed President Trump’s comprehensive domestic policy package on
10 Things to Know About the House’s ‘One Big Beautiful Bill’ Read More »
Most employees depend on their employers for health insurance today. It is possible to go into the open market and buy an individual health insurance policy under the Affordable Care Act, but these policies tend to be expensive. Premium subsidies are available, but only if you meet asset and income limitations. Of the insurance options available to working people
Health Insurance Before and After Retirement Read More »
ChartTalk: What industries will drive growth in the coming years? Here’s an infographic that depicts 18 of the industries the McKinsey Global Institute projects could generate massive growth by 2040. What will be the growth-driving industries of the next couple of decades? According to McKinsey Global Institute, there are 18 high-growth arenas—including AI, cybersecurity, biotech, and air
These 18 Industries Could Reshape the Global Economy by 2040 Read More »
Smart Strategies for Qualifying for Early Distribution Penalty Exceptions. Early—or pre-age 59½—distributions from IRAs and employer plans are subject to a 10% early distribution penalty unless an exception applies. In Part 1, we explain how to avoid losing eligibility for some exceptions by changing from one type of plan to another. In Part 2, we highlight
How to Avoid the 10% Early Distribution Penalty: Part 2 of 2 Read More »
Stocks began the month on a steep downward trajectory, experiencing losses reminiscent of the early pandemic lockdowns. However, by the end of the month, shares had managed to erase most of the early losses. What happened? Two primary events dominated the conversation during the month. First, the imposition of ‘reciprocal tariffs on April 2, and
Tariff talk dominates Read More »