Year-End Charitable Giving Strategies to Consider: Charitable planning should be integrated into overall wealth management

As December 31 approaches, charitable giving becomes top of mind for many individuals. Whether driven by a desire to maximize tax incentives, honor a loved one, or thoughtfully allocate year-end bonuses, this season is a strategic time for philanthropy. For high-net-worth (HNW) and ultra-high-net-worth (UHNW) individuals, giving often requires careful planning and involves more advanced…

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Holiday Survival Tips to Stay on Financial Track: How to stick to your financial goals and enjoy the holiday season this year

As the year winds down, the holiday season brings excitement, celebration, and togetherness. However, it also brings increased expenses that can strain your budget and divert you from your financial goals. With a little planning and a few savvy strategies, you can enjoy all the season has to offer while keeping your spending in check.…

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Planning to Give: Giving Tuesday is December 3rd – How to align your generosity with your financial planning and why it matters

Giving Tuesday, celebrated annually on the first Tuesday after Thanksgiving, is a global movement that inspires individuals, families, and organizations to contribute to causes they care about. This year, on December 3, 2024, people around the world will unite to give back – whether through donations, volunteer work, or acts of kindness. As this special…

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5 Things to Do Now to Make Your Estate Simpler for Your Heirs

By  Cheryl Winokur Munk No one likes to think about their own demise, but planning can make life after your death significantly easier for heirs. Here are five ways to help heirs avoid extra time, money, stress and acrimony after you pass: Keep documents updated Having a will or living trust is essential—but it isn’t…

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Ways To Lessen Financial Stress in Retirement: Because everyone wants to gain greater peace of mind in their golden years

For many retirees, financial stability can be a challenge, especially in times of rising costs and economic uncertainty. Fortunately, there are several strategies and programs that older adults can leverage to ease financial pressures. Here’s a look at some key ways retirees can reduce financial stress and make the most of available resources. 1. Medicare…

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Thinking About Naming a Trust as a Beneficiary? Know the nuances to ensure that your plan aligns with your financial goals

A critical part of estate planning is deciding how to distribute your retirement assets, such as IRAs or 401(k)s. One option is to name a trust as the beneficiary of these accounts, which can offer benefits in terms of control and protection. However, this decision also comes with potential tax implications and administrative complexities. It’s…

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Trump Econ 101: Not sure what the next four years of Trump might mean to you financially? For reference, try the four years beginning in 2017 through January 2021.

I know for many of you there is a high degree of excitement and anticipation for the next four years of a Trump presidency. I also know that for many of you there is fear and trepidation. What I also know is that The United States is and incredibly well-designed country and our political system,…

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CyberAttack Risks on Defined Contribution Plans: Tips for protecting financial assets and preserving confidence in the system

It is not just about protecting financial assets; it’s about preserving the confidence in a system that In the landscape of modern financial security, defined contribution plans stand as fortresses safeguarding the future of the workforce. The towering $10.2 trillion in assets within these plans is a testament to the collective effort of countless individuals…

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DOL Confirms Cybersecurity Guidance Application: Tips for retirement and health and welfare plan fiduciaries to stay vigilant

On Friday, September 6, 2024, the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) confirmed that its 2021 cybersecurity guidance extends to all employee benefit plans, including health and welfare plans. This clarification, issued through a Compliance Assistance Release, underscores the importance of robust cybersecurity practices across all sectors of employee benefits, not just retirement plans. The retirement…

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