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U.S. Markets  Markets rose in the second quarter as investors witnessed the new U.S. trade policy’s impacts unfold, while tensions continued in the Middle East.  The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index rose 10.57%, while the Nasdaq Composite climbed 17.75%. The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 4.98%.1  April Showers  Soon after the closing bell rang on April 2, investors were caught off guard by a tariff update from the White House. Global markets reacted to the news overnight. Stocks declined over

It seems like when summertime hits, time slows down. The hustle and bustle of the holiday season is over, taxes are complete, and vacation days are scheduled. If you find yourself with some extra time on your hands in the upcoming months, you may want to use this opportunity to check in on your family’s finances. While conducting a thorough analysis of your wealth may sound intimidating, we’ve broken the process down into eight simple steps to keep you focused

Life is unpredictable. One day, everything is running smoothly, and the next, you’re hit with a medical emergency, job loss, or unexpected home repair. That’s why having an emergency fund is crucial. But how much should you save? The answer depends on your financial situation, lifestyle, and risk tolerance. Let’s dive in. The General Rule: 3 to 6 Months of Expenses Financial experts commonly suggest setting aside three to six months’ worth of essential living expenses. This range offers a

Financial setbacks happen to everyone at some point. Job losses, unexpected medical expenses, or poor financial decisions can strain your finances. While setbacks can feel overwhelming, recovery is possible.  Here are some tips on rebuilding and regaining control of your financial future after a setback.  Assess the Damage  The first step to recovery is to determine where you stand. Dig deep into your finances, listing all your debts, expenses, and income sources, and then identify the root cause of the

Financial literacy is more than just a valuable skill—it is a necessity. Many young people enter adulthood without a solid understanding of money management, which can lead to long-term financial struggles. According to one study, nearly three out of four teens (74 percent) are not financially literate.1  Teaching financial literacy to teens and young adults equips them with the knowledge and tools they need to make informed financial decisions. Here are some of the key benefits of financial literacy for

A vacation should be a time to relax, explore, and create lasting memories, not a financial burden that follows you home. Yet, according to a Bankrate survey, more than one in three (36%) are willing to go into debt to pay for it.1 The good news is that you can enjoy a fantastic trip without going into debt. Here are some tips for planning a debt-free vacation. Set a Realistic Budget Before choosing a destination, determine how much you can

In today’s digital age, our online presence has become as vital as our physical belongings. Our digital footprint is extensive, spanning social media profiles to online banking, email accounts, and even cryptocurrency wallets. However, what happens to all these assets when we can no longer manage them? Enter the concept of a digital estate. Just as you would safeguard your home, car, and financial accounts, securing your digital assets is crucial. Here’s how you can take proactive steps to protect

According to Federal Reserve data, American households inherit an average of $46,200.1 These inheritance windfalls can bring a complex mix of emotions, psychological challenges, and financial decisions. While the prospect of a sudden financial gain might seem like a dream, the reality often involves navigating grief, guilt, and new responsibilities. Understanding the psychological impact of inheritance can help beneficiaries make sound financial and emotional decisions. Let’s learn more. The Emotional Rollercoaster of Inheritance When someone receives an inheritance, grief often

U.S. Markets Stocks fell in the first quarter as investors contended with economic uncertainty, inflationary concerns, and evolving tariff talks. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index slid 4.59%, while the tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite dropped 10.42%. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fared best, sliding only 1.28%.1 January’s Black Swan Stocks rallied in January on upbeat business and economic messaging from the White House. However, tech stocks pulled markets lower later in the month on news that a Chinese start-up had developed

Understanding your tax bracket is crucial for effective financial planning in 2025 and beyond. Tax brackets are adjusted annually due to inflation and policy changes. Here, we outline the tax brackets for 2025 and some ways to reduce your taxable income. 2025 Federal Income Tax Brackets The IRS adjusts tax brackets annually based on inflation, and for 2025, here are the tax rates for different income levels:1 Single Filers: • 37% for incomes over $626,250 • 35% for incomes over