Blog
What’s on our mind? You can read about it in our blog. Whether it’s ideas from the industry or emerging trends, you can read about it here. And once in a while, we may throw in a movie review or some other surprise. So keep checking in. We’re glad to have you reading along.
Weekly Market Insights: Will the Fed Raise Interest Rates?
Last week, Saudi Arabia and Russia announced they would extend their oil production cuts to the end of the year. The announcement sent oil prices higher on supply shortage worries in the coming winter months. More weekly market updates ⬇️
Read MoreCommercial Umbrella Insurance: When General Liability Meets Risky Business
Designed to give businesses extra coverage for those costs that exceed policy limits, an umbrella policy can be a saving grace for businesses hit with a claim that results in legal costs, medical bills, damage to others’ property, and more!
Read MoreWhy Your Small Business May Need Workers’ Compensation Insurance
In some states, hiring just one employee, even a part-time worker, means you must purchase a workers’ compensation policy. Learn more about workers' comp ⬇️ or reach out to our team with questions via DM or www.wizdom1.com/contact-us
Read MoreDollars and Degrees: The Cost of Education
📚🎒🚌It's projected the average household will spend around $890 on back to school shopping for the 2023-2024 school year. 📣Sound off below: does that seem 😯too high, 💸too low, or 👍about right?
Read MoreWater, Water Everywhere
We love water as long as it stays where it’s supposed to be. But that life-giving, cleansing force can be powerful and destructive despite our best efforts to tame or contain it.
Read MoreShow All
Weekly Market Insights: Stocks Advance and Retreat on Mixed News
Stocks moved to the rhythm of earnings season last week, initially rising on positive earnings surprises and faltering later in the week on key earnings disappointments.
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Bad News for Bears; Good News Buoys Markets
Inflation continued its downward trend last month, falling at its slowest pace in over two years. More market insights to start your week here⬇️
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Debt Talks Optimism Keeps Eyes on D.C.
Markets moved in sync last week with perceived movement in debt ceiling talks, weakening early in the week and then surging on news of progress. A solid quarterly report and guidance from a mega-cap technology company helped with enthusiasm
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Friday Rally Trims Losses; CPI Report Next Week
Amid concerns in the regional bank sector and tightening credit conditions, the Fed elected to increase interest rates by 0.25%, citing elevated inflation and robust job gains. Investors were more focused, however, on what the Fed signaled.
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Stocks show small losses after mixed week
Two housing reports reflected ongoing fragility in the housing market and fed prevailing economic slowdown worries. Sales of new homes fell 0.8% in March, dragged down by a 5.2% slide in new multi-family home construction.
Read MoreHaving Financial Conversations with Adult Children
A recent survey reported that 68% of parents had made financial sacrifices to support their adult children. It's often a difficult decision that can stress relationships, impact retirement strategies, and harm overall financial wellness.
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Lower inflation lifts spirits in uneven week.
The Consumer Price Index (CPI) rose a very modest 0.1% in March, while the year-over-year increase in consumer prices was 5%, down from February’s 12-month rise of 6%. Declines aided the March report in groceries, gasoline & medical care.
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Banking Crisis Fears Dim; Markets Rally
Market insights, CPI news, tax tips, and more in this week's market insights
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Mixed Message Provokes Volatility
Last week Fed officials were placed in the difficult position of balancing the banking system's opposing risks of still-high inflation and stressors. The Committee had considered leaving rates unchanged but unanimously voted to raise rates.
Read MoreFeds Managing SVB, Inflation and More Info on SVB
2022's rapid rise in interest rates appears to be a stressor on the banking system. The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC), in recent days, took control of both Silicon Valley Bank (SVB) and Signature Bank (SB).
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Fed’s Reassurance Boosts Stocks.
A late-week surge, triggered by reassuring Fed-speak, propelled stocks higher last week.
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: FOMC Says Inflation is Still Too High
Start your week with key market insights, tax tips, and healthy living advice 🔽🔽
Read MoreSide Hustles and Entrepreneurism Have Risks: Are You Covered?
As individuals take on side hustles to generate more income or out of a desire to operate their own businesses, they also take on risks. If you have a side hustle, you need to insure yourself accordingly.
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Mixed Feelings and Mixed Earnings
The Dow Jones Industrial Average slipped 0.17%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 declined 1.11%. The Nasdaq Composite index lost 2.41%. The MSCI EAFE index, which tracks developed overseas stock markets, dipped 0.30%.
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Earnings and Data Tell Two Different Stories on Near Future.
Stocks added to their early 2023 gains amid a busy stream of mixed corporate earnings results and conflicting economic data. The Dow gained 1.81%, while the S&P 500 added 2.47%. The Nasdaq Composite index rose 4.32% for the week.
Read MoreIdentity Theft Awareness Week
January 30 to February 3, 2023, is Identity Theft Awareness Week. Anytime is a good time to tighten up your identity security. Here are a few best practices to adopt or continue:
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Mixed Results Following Weak Economic Data
Stocks showed mixed results last week as recession fears resurfaced. The Dow Jones Industrial Average skidded 2.70%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 declined 0.66%.
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: New Year's Rally in Reply to Positive Economic News
A new year did little to change the market’s overall tenor as trading remained choppy. The first two trading sessions of a holiday-shortened week saw major averages swing wildly between gains and losses
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Recession Concerns, Fed Talk Keep Stocks Cold
Stocks began the week on a positive note, supported by a cooler-than-expected Consumer Price Index (CPI) report. Stocks reversed direction mid-week, however, following the 0.5% rate hike.
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Stocks Slide on Recession Concerns
Weekly Market Insights: Business-related travel deduction tips, Producer Price Index News, and a look at the stock market to start your Monday
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Easing on Rate Hikes and Job Numbers Cheer Markets
Last week in the stock market and what's coming ahead. Plus, tax and wellness tips to help you start your week strong.
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Fed Talks Turkey on Lower Rates, Boosting Markets
In light holiday-week trading, stocks rallied as investors grew more hopeful of a slowdown in a future rate hike. Plus tax tips and healthy living advice along with more market insights.
Read MoreNew Retirement Contribution Limits for 2023
After months of high inflation and financial uncertainty, some of these cost-of-living-based adjustments have reached near-record levels. IRA contribution limits are up $500 in 2023 to $6,500.
Read MoreOctober CPI: Game Changer or Head Fake?
While it's a bit early to know the answer, it was great to see that inflation rose at a slower-than-expected rate in October.
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Cooling Inflation Brings Market Gains
A cooling inflation number ignited a powerful rally on Thursday, sending stocks to strong gains for the week. The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 4.15%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 added 5.90%. The Nasdaq Composite index rose 8.10%
Read MoreAhead of the Midterms 2022
The results of elections almost always influence the economy, whether that be an immediate reaction from Wall Street or a long-term reaction due to policy changes. Midterm elections, in particular, can shake things up.
Read MoreThe CEO's Unofficial Q2 Buzzword
You may have heard the expression, “You can talk yourself into just about anything.” If that’s true, corporate America better watch out.
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Volatility Reigns; Inflation Remains Unchecked.
Friday Recap: Tax tips, healthy living advice, and market insights Read more:
Read MoreJOLTS of Optimism for the Markets?
The JOLTS report tells the Fed how many job openings there are each month. It also shows how many people were hired, quit, or were laid off.
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Boost Early in Week Keeps Markets Ahead
A powerful two-day stock rebound cemented a positive week for investors as a new trading month began. More weekly insights, healthy living tips, and more:
Read MorePutting Interest Rates Into Perspective
This year saw five interest rate increases in seven months — making it the quickest tightening cycle in modern history.
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: U.S. and U.K. See Financial Turbulence
Rising recession fears and uncertainty in the bond and currency markets sent stocks to new 2022 lows last week.
Read MoreWhat’s the Fed’s Master Plan?
Wall Street is always searching for a hero to embrace or a villain to blame. And right now, Fed Chair Jerome Powell is the villain. After the September Fed meeting, Powell said interest rates may be heading higher for longer than expected.
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Fallout From Powell Comments Continues
Last week, Fed Chair Powell said the U.S. would not tame inflation without economic pain. This week heightened recession fears and sent stocks broadly lower.
Read MorePreparing For Anything
Did you know September is National Preparedness Month? This event promoted by FEMA guides Americans in ensuring their families and communities are ready in case of natural disasters or other emergencies.
Read MoreWhat is Happening with CPI and Inflation?
Looking for news on the Consumer Price Index and inflation? Consumer prices ticked slightly lower in August but not as much as what Wall Street wanted.
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Markets Upbeat, Despite Gloomy Inflation Talk
We've got news on the stock market, an update from the Federal Reserve, Tax Tips, and a healthy brussels sprouts salad recipe to round out your week!
Read MoreLife Doesn't Stand Still
September is Life Insurance Awareness Month. If you haven’t reviewed your insurance profile in a while, you may be surprised that what made sense in the past no longer fits your life.
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Markets Sag, Job Numbers Soar
The overhang of Fed Chair Powell’s Jackson Hole speech the previous week carried over into last week as investors recalibrated stock valuations amid a seemingly more assertive monetary policy stance.
Read MoreImportant Details on Student Loan Relief
In Case You Missed It: The White House recently forgave up to $10,000 to student loan borrowers as part of a larger debt forgiveness program. Here are some FAQ's answered.
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Powell comments spur sell-off on Wall Street
A comprehensive sell-off on Friday following comments by Fed Chair Jerome Powell drove stocks to losses for the week.The Dow Jones Industrial Average tumbled 4.22%, while the Standard & Poor's 500 dropped 4.04%.
Read MoreThe Fed's Inflation Nowcasting Tool
Does waiting 30 days for a government report seem a bit unreasonable? After all, we live in a world of instant messages and real-time quotes.
Read MoreWhat it means to work with a fiduciary
What does it mean to work with a fiduciary?Customized solutionsPersonalized ServiceDedicated support for you.
Read MoreThree Ways the Inflation Act Could Impact You
Have you heard? The Inflation Reduction Act was signed into law on Tuesday, August 16. While the $430 billion package includes many provisions, I thought I’d highlight three key areas where you may benefit the most.
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Stocks Have Warmer Week as Inflation Cools
An improving inflation outlook buoyed investors’ spirits last week, helping lift stocks to solid gains.
Read More'Smart Money' on Interest Rates
Have you ever heard the expression, "What's the smart money doing?"
Read MoreUnpacking the Summer Economy
In the financial world, some weeks are more important than others, and we just lived through a big one. Let's unpack each of the four key stats:
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Markets Rally; Earnings Better Than Expected
The U.S. economy shrank at an annualized rate of 0.9% in the second quarter as consumers pulled back on spending and businesses worked to reduce inventories. More Market Insights:
Read MoreBalmy Business Books for a Sweltering Summer
August is here, but that doesn't mean an end to summer! It's just heating up on Long Island! Here are some business books to escape into in the last few weeks of summer:
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Markets React to Dim Forecast, 2Q Reports
Stocks rallied last week as investor spirits lifted thanks to a better-than-expected start to the second-quarter earnings season.
Read MoreInflation, Interest Rates, & Indiana Jones
Stop me if you heard this already—roughly half the population wasn’t alive last time inflation was at this level.
Read More3 Tips for the Second Half of 2022
With half the year behind us, now is a great time to consider what the remainder of 2022 may hold.
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Stocks Rally, Despite Recession Concerns
Prospects of cooling inflation powered a rally in stock prices last week despite growing recession concerns. The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 5.39%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 climbed 6.45%.
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Stocks Rally, Despite Recession Concerns
Prospects of cooling inflation powered a rally in stock prices last week despite growing recession concerns.
Read MoreSearching for the Goldilocks Economy
At the risk of slowing economic growth, the Fed has driven short-term rates higher to rein in inflation. But it’s a tricky proposition.Raise rates too much, and you may trigger a recession. Don’t raise rates enough, and you...
Read MoreAre You a Management Consultant? Insure the Future of Your Business
Workforces have changed. Today, consultants are commonly found in strategic roles across businesses. The evolution began long before the pandemic. Decades ago, management consultants began to stake out functions where they could step...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Stocks Dip on Inflation Report
A higher-than-expected inflation report triggered a sell-off on Friday, leaving stocks in the red for the week.
Read MoreProtect Your New Home While It’s Being Built
Standard homeowners insurance doesn't cover everything, especially when it comes to renovations. Do you know your #risk?
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Stocks Slip on Mixed Economic News
Stocks experienced wild swings last week, in part, due to ongoing uncertainty over economic health and the path of inflation. See more market insights from the past week:
Read MoreIs your homeowner's insurance enough?
5 questions to ask before you start demo on your next home renovation project because your current home insurance policy might not be enough!
Read MoreElectrical Contractor? Financial Protections for Your Business
Electricians are exposed to significant and often unique hazards when providing services related to the electrical systems in home, business and industrial settings. Do you have proper business insurance to protect you?
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Confidence in Fed Helps Spark Market Rally
Stocks posted solid gains for the week, buoyed by the release of Fed meeting minutes and upbeat earnings from mid-size and discount retailers. See more market insights:
Read MoreComics, Collectibles, and Coping with Calamity
Rare collectibles can provide an entertaining form of alternative “investment,” and might seem particularly intriguing when markets are wobblier than Aunt Gertrude’s jello salad.
Read MoreBreaking Down the Great Resignation
Lately, the "Great Resignation" has led many Americans to leave their jobs for other opportunities, while others have chosen a different path: early retirement. We can all understand looking for a more suitable place of work, but some might
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Inflation Takes Center Stage
Another volatile week! The Dow Jones Industrial Average dropped 2.14%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 lost 2.41%. The Nasdaq Composite index fell 2.80% for the week. See more market insights:
Read MoreAge My Way in May
May is a month to celebrate the older Americans in our country and honor their lives and the accomplishments they still have ahead of them. This year's theme is "Age My Way."
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Tighter Money Policy; Market Drops
With the Fed in focus, the markets experienced wide price swings over the course of last week, as technology companies led the market lower. See more market insights from this week:
Read MoreProtect Your New Home While It’s Being Built
Building the home of your dreams requires you to think about insurance. Homeowners insure their homes with a homeowners policy—but what about the home that is still under construction?
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Economy Slows; Stocks Retreat
On Friday, a sharp sell-off sent major stock market indices into negative territory for the week, capping a volatile close to April.
Read MoreEnjoy Your Summer With The Right Boat Insurance Policy
Boats, jet skis, and other watercraft are significant investments, and protecting those investments is important.
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Powell Favors Quick Movement
This week's marketing insights: Hawkish comments from Fed Chair Jerome Powell overshadowed many largely positive earnings results, sending stocks lower for the week.
Read MoreGuard against Cyber Attacks with Cybersecurity Insurance
Ransomware attacks are among the latest, costly means by which hundreds of organizations and tens of thousands of computers have been infected throughout the world.
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Earnings Season Begins
Stocks posted losses in a holiday-shortened trading week as the first-quarter earnings season kicked off and investors digested new inflation data. The Dow Jones Industrial Average declined 0.78%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 fell 2.13%
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Fed Signals More Aggressive Action on Interest Rates
Read More
Do I Need Boat Insurance for a Non-Motorized Boat?
Depending on where you live, you may not be legally required by the state to carry boat insurance for a non-motorized boat, but that is not the only reason to insure your boat.
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Markets Weigh Menu of Uncertainty
Stocks spent last week digesting the sharp gains of previous weeks as investors assessed a tightening yield curve, the war in Ukraine, and an uncertain outlook for economic growth and inflation.
Read MoreApril Is Financial Literacy Month
April marks the start of Financial Literacy Month, a nationally recognized movement to promote and support financial understanding in children and teens. For many, it's a fantastic opportunity to teach and connect.
Read MoreSplit Decision: Who Joins the Dow 30?
You may have heard that both Amazon and Alphabet recently announced stock splits. But what you may have missed is the subplot to the unfolding story.
Read MoreThe Fed Makes Its Move
The Federal Reserve recently announced that for the first time in three years, it would increase short-term interest rates by a quarter of a percentage point. In addition, the Fed has stated that it would like to see short-term interest rat
Read MoreConsumer Confidence at the Pump
The latest Consumer Price Index (CPI) report was recently released and confirmed what economists anticipated: consumer inflation has risen 7.9% over the past year, the largest spike since 1982— none of which is a surprise for anyone who has
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Ukrainian War Stresses Economy
War in Ukraine weighed on stocks as investors assessed the economic impact of continued hostilities, expanding economic sanctions, and potentially higher inflation due to rising oil prices and new stresses on the global supply chain.
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Inflation and Ukraine Rattle Investors Another Week
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Weekly Market Insights: Inflation and Ukraine Fears Cool Markets
A hot inflation print and the growing concern of a Russian invasion of Ukraine sent stocks tumbling late in the week, leaving major indices lower for the five-trading days. The Dow Jones Industrial Average skidded 1.00%, while the...
Read MorePowell News Kicks Off Volatile Season?
The holiday season is often a quiet, positive time for the financial markets. The phrase “Santa Claus Rally” was coined in the early 1970s to reflect the stock market’s upward bias during the November-January stretch...
Read MoreBiden Signs Infrastructure Bill
At the White House on Monday, President Biden signed a $1T bipartisan infrastructure bill set to enable enhancements for transportation and utilities over the next five years.1Over those five years, $550 billion will be invested into...
Read MoreIs Inflation Peaking?
You see it in prices at the grocery store and the gas station. You feel it in your monthly budget. So why don’t the financial markets seem too concerned about inflation?Remember, financial markets are considered...
Read More2022 Contribution Limits
Preparing for retirement just got a little more financial wiggle room. This week, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) announced new contribution limits for 2022.Staying put for 2022 are traditional Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs)...
Read MoreWizdom One has moved!
We are excited to announce our WizdomOne family of companies has moved! We look forward to the future of our company as we grow across Long Island and continue to focus on bringing financial wizdom to business owners and entrepreneurs...
Read MoreFANNG is now MAMAA
CNBC’s Mad Money host Jim Cramer created the popular FAANG acronym to denote some of the largest, most powerful companies in the world: Facebook, Amazon, Apple, Netflix, and Google. Recently, changes in those companies are...
Read MoreEstate Taxes May Be Amended Soon
To help raise revenue to pay for President Biden’s Build Back Better Plan, Congress is considering a number of tax law changes, including adjusting estate taxes.One of the proposals would reduce the estate tax exemption to...
Read MoreGridlock in the Supply Chain
While the world has begun to recover from the economic disruption of the COVID-19 pandemic, the delayed reaction has been felt in the supply chain. Industrial shutdowns around the world slowed production to a relative crawl, leaving...
Read MoreBusiness Income Coverage vs. Business Interruption Insurance: What’s the Difference?
Protecting your business with insurance is essential. It starts with understanding what each type of business insurance covers. Business income coverage and business interruption insurance are terms often used interchangeably –...
Read MoreReady for Medicare Open Enrollment?
Medicare’s annual open enrollment period begins October 15 and ends December 7. During this time, current Medicare beneficiaries have the option to adjust their coverage for the coming year. Any changes to your plan will go into...
Read MoreConsiderations During Medicare’s Open Enrollment
How long has it been since you’ve reviewed your Medicare policy? With open enrollment fast approaching, there are a few questions you may want to ask yourself before you renew, add, drop, or switch coverage.Have you switched...
Read MoreFed Rescues September
A funny thing happened in the investment markets the other day. September was living up to its reputation as a volatile month, but then the Federal Reserve came to the rescue.The Fed concluded its Federal Open Market Committee meeting...
Read MoreThe Underutilized Benefits of a Health Savings Account
Healthcare can be one of the priciest yet essential parts of life’s journey. And yet, many struggle to utilize the financial tools that may help. Take Health Saving Accounts (HSAs), for example.In 2019, 55% of those with HSAs...
Read MoreProtect Your Data
Always be diligent and take the right precautions to protect your digital data and thwart cyber attacks. Strong passwords are crucial. Use a strong password generator and password manager to help keep your information safe.
Read MoreDo I Need Commercial Property Insurance for A Shared Office?
If you work in a shared office space, it is essential to ensure you are protected against specific risks. If your business operates out of a coworking space, a commercial property insurance policy brings added protections. The office...
Read MoreA Dividend of Confidence
The most recent stats on corporate dividends suggest that global companies are bullish on the world’s economic recovery.Dividends paid to investors are on track to hit $1.4 trillion this year and are expected to stretch even...
Read MoreWill Air Travel Problems Persist?
The airline industry plotted a course for recovery in 2021, but recent difficulties may have put that plan into a holding pattern.While major airlines checked in with improving financial results for the second quarter, both they and...
Read MoreCollege Wars: May the Coverage Be with You!
One of the most anticipated events and loved film series is Star Wars! From those who fondly remember seeing that massive star destroyer fill the theater screen for the first time in 1977, to those who’ve only watched the later...
Read MoreCommonly Overlooked Types of Business Insurance
You already have business insurance, but have you overlooked a situation that could put your business at risk? We offer a list of the most overlooked types of business insurance, as well as a brief explanation of each type. Employment...
Read MoreThe Cost Of A Gold Medal
The 2020 Tokyo Olympics wrap up with closing ceremonies on August 8, and it’s been an Olympic games like no other. We’ve watched the world’s finest athletes go for the gold. Which leads many to wonder: what exactly...
Read MoreBillionaires in Space
It’s long been an aspirational target for entrepreneurs. It literally goes beyond “blue sky,” in terms of location, to a place no business has gone before: Outer Space! Longtime space enthusiast and entrepreneur...
Read MoreInflation & the Real Rate of Return
The real rate of return is an important personal finance concept to understand.It’s the rate of return on your investments after inflation. The real rate of return indicates whether you are gaining or losing purchasing power...
Read MoreThinking About Summer Travel Plans
Summertime rouses our desire to hit the road (or the airport) and travel. Here are a few things you’ll want to consider before you take off.Employment Issues for Airlines: Airlines have canceled hundreds of flights due to...
Read MoreInflation Outlook for 2021
As our nation continues to recover from the effects of COVID-19, one economic trend has been capturing news attention as of late. Consumer prices are rising amidst economic recovery. In fact, the Consumer Price Index (CPI) rose 0.8%...
Read MoreInflation Can Be a Scary Word
Inflation can be a scary word for people who are retired. It’s code for “prices are going up, but my income may stay the same.”The most recent reading on consumer prices put inflation back into the conversation. The...
Read MoreHow COVID-19 Caused a “She-Cession”
Since the 1980s, unemployment rates have trended higher amongst men than women during a recession. In previous periods of economic downturn, this made sense. Male-dominated industries, like construction and finance, were typically...
Read MoreBuffett and Powell Talk Inflation
What does it mean when two of the most powerful voices in American financial life seem to be saying two different things?In one corner, we have the “Oracle of Omaha,” investor Warren Buffett. As one of the nation’s...
Read MoreWhat in the World Are NFTs?
Non-fungible tokens, or NFTs, have been the recipient of the latest buzz. NFTs are digital files attached to blockchain codes. If you know anything about digital currencies, you’re probably aware that these blockchain codes are...
Read MoreInflation Boogeyman
Inflation has emerged as one of the top financial concerns for investors as they size up the economy for the rest of the year.According to research by Deutsche Bank, Google searches for “inflation” are rising rapidly and...
Read MoreSPACs Take Center Stage
The acronym “SPAC” is showing up more often these days because there is some big money behind the revitalized investment approach.SPAC stands for Special Purpose Acquisition Company, and they are sometimes referred to as...
Read MoreIt Was Goliath vs. Goliath All Along
What's your "go-to" source for financial information?"Family and friends" is the #1 answer given in the annual Retirement Confidence Survey. But a close second is search engines and other online tools, including online forums like the...
Read MoreElection Update: 2021 May Bring Some Changes
As election season draws to a close, it's a great time to review what type of legislative support would be needed to pass certain policy proposals that may come forward from the Biden Administration.It's important to remember that...
Read More5 Highlights of the New Stimulus Package
After a bit of political posturing in December, the $900 billion Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021 (2021 CAA) was signed into law by President Trump as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to impact employers and employees...
Read MoreWill the Grinch Steal Christmas?
The start of the holiday shopping season can provide important clues about the economy's state and, more importantly, overall consumer confidence. So far, the results have been a “mixed bag” with empty malls and busy...
Read MoreElection 2020: Managing Your Emotions
It’s a startling statistic. 45% of consumers with $100,000 or more investable assets expect to make changes to their investments due to the upcoming 2020 presidential election.1 Second-guessing your investment strategy is...
Read MoreFAFSA Applications Are Now Open
Applications for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) are now open for the academic year 2021-22. Applying for the FAFSA allows you to qualify for grants, scholarships, and other federally-sourced aid, such as...
Read MoreCan Businesses Win the Fight Over Covid-19 Insurance Claims?
A growing number of businesses are suing their insurers after being denied business interruption insurance claims that were filed because of the Covid-19 pandemic. But will they be successful? (Producer, Andrew Satter; Executive...
Read MorePlanning Your Driving Route For Maximum Efficiency
Whether you are taking a vacation road trip or commuting from home to work and back, it is smart to plan your route. Careful planning can help you minimize fuel costs and driving time and maximize enjoyment, safety, and efficiency....
Read MoreIs My Small Business Big Enough For Key Person Insurance?
Any business, large or small, may need key person (key man) insurance. If you are starting with a small business, your focus is likely to be on pressing matters, such as getting your product or service out, hiring the right people,...
Read MoreHelp for Small-Business Owners: The Money Questions
How entangled should your personal and business finances be? For many small-business owners, the line is blurry, which can put them in a precarious situation when things go south. Here, WSJ's personal finance team answers some common...
Read MoreDon’t Overreact in August
One of my favorite Wall Street quotes is from Mark Twain, who said:“October: This is one of the peculiarly dangerous months to speculate in stocks. The others are July, January, September, April, November, May, March, June,...
Read MoreDoes Workers’ Comp Cover Work-Related Accidents Outside The Workplace?
Most states in the U.S. require all employers to carry workers’ compensation insurance to cover employees in case of work-related injuries. What if a worker is injured in an accident that occurs at a location other than the job...
Read More10 Lessons Climbing Mountains has Taught me About Running a Practice
In the mountains, minds wander and become inspired. It's amazing how many parallels there are between climbing mountains and your work life! See these 10 lessons climbing mountains has taught about running a business. LESSON 1: Have a...
Read MoreCoronavirus Vaccine Tracker
Coronavirus Vaccine Tracker Researchers around the world are developing more than 165 vaccines against the coronavirus, and 27 vaccines are in human trials. Vaccines typically require years of research and testing before reaching the...
Read MoreWhat is Reg BI?
Recently, you may have heard that financial industry regulators established a new set of rules designed to guide investors who work with an investment professional. This new set of rules is called “Regulation Best...
Read MoreCARES Act: Will There Be a Phase 4?
With the economy and financial markets flashing mixed signals, it’s no wonder that lawmakers are deadlocked on whether to pass a Phase 4 of the CARES Act.More than $3 trillion in stimulus has been pushed into the economy since...
Read MoreHow Is Contractors General Liability Insurance Different From Standard Commercial Liability Insuranc
Any business needs general liability insurance. Contractors, subcontractors, and independent tradesmen need this type of coverage, not only to protect their business, but often as a requirement for the job. Trades that need...
Read MoreI Sent Checks to Dead People
Botched Tests, Stimulus Checks for Dead People Mar U.S. Virus Response The federal government’s quick action to issue stimulus payments in the wake of the coronavirus crisis led to more than a billion dollars of fraudulent...
Read MoreAre Coronavirus Cases Rising Or Falling In Your State?
Tracking The Pandemic: Are Coronavirus Cases Rising Or Falling In Your State? More than 2 million people in the U.S. have tested positive for the coronavirus and more than 120,000 have died. Though growth in new cases slowed in late...
Read MoreHave you been thinking about life insurance?
In our uncertain climate, it’s unsurprising that when American investors are thinking about their financial strategy, that the topic of life insurance comes up.For some, it’s always been front of mind. For younger...
Read MoreIt’s the Hottest Thing in Life Insurance. Are Buyers Aware of the Risks?
It's the Hottest Thing in Life Insurance. Are Buyers Aware of the Risks? Sales of a life-insurance policy tied to the longest bull market in U.S. history are soaring. Regulators worry that buyers are unprepared for a crash. Indexed...
Read MoreAs states start to reopen, here’s where people are going
Americans are getting a burger and haircut but NOT dinner and a movie! As states begin to reopen certain industries are on the rise, and others are unfortunately on a slippery downward slope. With 40 million unemployed, will more...
Read MoreIs Your Business Allowed to Reopen ? .... Responsibly
The tool below from NY State will help you determine whether or not your business is eligible to reopen, and the public health and safety standards with which your business must comply. As we know Businesses in each region will be able...
Read MoreThe Scientific Advances We Need to Stop COVID-19
A great comprehensive overview from the blog of Bill Gates. Pandemic I: The First Modern Pandemic Read Full Article Here
Read MoreThe Coronavirus Bear and Its Place in History
The Coronavirus Bear and Its Place in History Helping investors better understand bear markets, corrections and crashes The pace with which the Coronavirus bear toppled the longest-running bull market in history was startling. The Dow...
Read MoreIs U.S Housing the Next COVID-19 Fallout ?
Is Another U.S.-Wide Housing Slump Coming ? Full Bloomberg Article Can Be Found Here
Read MoreDid You Know You Can NOW File a Unemployment Insurance Claim on NYS Department of Labor Website?
Did you know you can now file an unemployment insurance claim on New York State Department of Labor's website AS A SELF EMPLOYED INDIVIDUAL?! Here is how! See links below. Self Employed UI Guide PUA and UI Flow Chart Pandemic and...
Read MoreDFS ISSUES NEW EMERGENCY REGULATION REQUIRING COMMERCIAL HEALTH INSURERS
DFS ISSUES NEW EMERGENCY REGULATION REQUIRING COMMERCIAL HEALTH INSURERS TO DEFER PAYMENT OF PREMIUMS THROUGH JUNE 1ST FOR CONSUMERS & BUSINESSES EXPERIENCING FINANCIAL HARDSHIP DURING COVID-19 PANDEMIC Read Governor Cuomo’s Full...
Read MoreAnother Reason Pandemics Are the Retiree's Enemy
Three economists — Òscar Jordà, Sanjay R. Singh and Alan Taylor — talk about the threat COVID-19 could pose to fixed-income investors in a new working paper published on the National Bureau of Economic...
Read MoreImportant Notice Regarding Your Life Policies, Annuity Contracts
A recent Executive Order issued by Governor Cuomo, together with recent amendments to the insurance and banking regulations (the “regulations”) issued by the New York State Department of Financial Services...
Read MoreRelief Programs Available for Small Business
This is an uncertain time and many small businesses are experiencing financial concern and hardship. Relief programs are available for small business owners. Please click below for a collection of resources. CLICK HERE FOR FULL ARTICLE
Read MoreFamilies First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) Flow Chart
Confused about the Families First Coronavirus Response Ace ( FFCRA ) ? Sometimes all you need is a flow chart. CLICK HERE TO VIEW CHART
Read MoreWhy the traditional stock-picking adviser may soon be obsolete!
The wealth management industry is transforming at a pace that many in the business may be underestimating at their own peril, particularly given that the growth of exchange-trade funds has commoditized the investment process and also...
Read MoreHSA Contribution Deadline Extended to July 15
HSA Contribution Deadline Extended to July 15 The federal income tax return filing deadline has been postponed from April 15, 2020 to July 15, 2020. This extension follows Notice 2020-18, in which the Treasury Department and the...
Read MoreCOVID19 Relief Navigator: Comprehensive Business Emergency Funding & Relief Program Tool
While federal, state and local officials, along with private and non-profit sector, have pledged to make many resources easily available to help small businesses in need of either immediate or long-term assistance, the scope of options...
Read MoreCOVID-19 EMPLOYER FAQ
Curated from over 2,000 questions submitted by employers from a great resource ThinkHR and Mammoth. COVID-19 Employer FAQ
Read MoreCOVID-19 PAID SICK LEAVE
Under legislation signed by Governor Cuomo, New York workers are guaranteed job protection and financialcompensation while they are on a mandatory or precautionary quarantine order due to COVID-19.
Read MoreCOVID-19 NYS Guidance Exempt Mortgage
Guidance to New York State Regulated and Exempt Mortgage Servicers Regarding Support for Borrowers Impacted by the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) To: The Chief Executive Officers or the Equivalents of New York State Regulated and Exempt...
Read MoreCoronavirus Testing at Stony Brook University
New York State has partnered with Stony Brook University to begin drive-through testing for the Coronavirus at Stony Brook Universities South P Lot off Stony Brook Road. Residents can make advance appointments by calling 888-364-3065....
Read MoreDisaster Loan Assistance
Federal Disaster Loans for Businesses, Private Nonprofits, Homeowners, and Renters https://disasterloan.sba.gov/ela/
Read MoreCOVID-19 Response: New York’s New Paid Sick Leave, DBL & PFL
In a swift response to the COVID-19 crisis, the state of New York enacted a new law on March 18, 2020 that requires most employers to provide Paid Sick Leave (PSL) of one to two weeks, depending on employer size and income, to...
Read MoreHere's Your Guide To 2020 Rates For 401k’s, Student Loans & More
Finally, a financial planning guide with helpful information you need in one place. Here’s what you need to know. Financial Planning If you want to know the latest rates for your major financial planning needs, here is a helpful...
Read MoreImportant Medicare Oxford Post
Beginning July 1, 2020, Oxford will require all New York members who have a fully insured small (1-100) or large group (101+) medical benefits plan and are enrolled in Medicare Part A as their primary insurance must enroll in a...
Read MoreWhat it Means to Work with a Certified Financial Fiduciary
As a Certified Financial Fiduciary®, one must agree to uphold the highest moral, ethical and fiduciary standards of service when providing advice to potential or existing clients. These standards have been set forth in the...
Read MoreIt's FINALLY Here - NY Passes Best Interest Regs for Life Insurance
New York Passes Best Interest Regs for Life Insurance .... FINALLY Read More Here
Read MoreIs A 'Greater Recession' Inevitable?
(Forbes) The global volume of debt carrying negative yields now stands at $17 trillion. Under the circumstances, it hardly qualifies as a bold prediction that bond investors will incur substantial losses at some point down the road....
Read MoreCan Treasury Yields Fall Below Zero ?
There is some $15 trillion in government debt that now yields less than zero, and former Federal Reserve Chairman Alan Greenspan believes there’s no reason why U.S. government bond yields couldn’t join much of the developed...
Read MoreBuy That Hot IPO Stock? Not Us, Thanks
As the market for initial public offerings, or IPOs, seems to be heating up, the attached article from Morningstar is a great contrarian-minded, valuation-driven, and fundamentally-rooted perspective. Buy That Hot IPO Stock? Not Us, Thanks
Read MoreMark Cuban Has an Answer to the Trade War, If Only Someone Would Listen
Great article about the interview Mark Cuban gave to Cheddar. Full Article Here
Read MoreThe Disconnect Between Who You Are and What You Do — Getting the Message Right
Who you are and why you do what you do is far more important to your message than what you do or how you do it. Full Article Here
Read MoreAvoid Becoming As Obsolete As Nokia Phones
Lessons one advisor learned from Harvard Business School. Read Entire Article Here
Read MoreThe ETF Fee War and the Story of “negative fee” ETF ?
The ETF Fee War Is No Laughing Matter. The relentless cost-cutting by issuers may appear self-defeating, but there’s a logical endgame. Full Article
Read MoreConsumer Alert from DFS Regarding Universal Life Insurance Policies
DFS Urges New Yorkers to Carefully Review Their Policies and All Information Provided by Their Insurer. Click Here to Read the Press Release ACTING DFS SUPERINTENDENT LACEWELL ISSUES CONSUMER ALERT REGARDING UNIVERSAL LIFE INSURANCE...
Read MoreRetirement on FIRE ?
A very different outlook on saving for retirement. Full Article
Read MoreWhat Makes a Financial Advisor a “True” Fiduciary?
Captive advisors essentially serve as “product advocates” for the firm, limited to the technology, products and platform approved by their firms. Whereas independent advisors serve as “client advocates,” with...
Read MoreHarvard's Feldstein Says Debt To Reach 100% Of GDP By End Of Decade
Harvard's Feldstein Says Debt To Reach 100% Of GDP By End Of Decade Harvard University George F. Baker Professor of Economics Marty Feldstein discusses the U.S. debt and deficit
Read MoreLawmakers look to make student loan benefits tax-free
Lawmakers look to make student loan benefits tax-free ! Read More Here.
Read MoreWhy Should Advisors Prioritize Health Care?
Regardless of which approach you take, health care will increasingly need to play a role in your advising strategy in 2019 and beyond. https://www.fa-mag.com/news/why-should-advisors-prioritize-health-care-42867.html?section=40
Read MoreGrab a Coffee and Dig Into the 20% Pass-Through Deduction
IRS Publishes Final Guidance On The 20% Pass-Through Deduction: Putting It All Together https://www.forbes.com/sites/anthonynitti/2019/01/19/irs-publishes-final-guidance-on-the-20-pass-through-deduction-putting-it-all-together/#26861014d9f0
Read MoreBusiness and social responsibility can coexist.
Traditional U.S. business organizational structures reflect a belief that making a profit and having a positive impact are competing or even mutually exclusive goals. Historically, incorporated entities have been forced to choose one...
Read More4th Quarter Heartbreak for Many DB Plan Sponsors
4th Quarter Heartbreak for Many DB Plan Sponsors https://blog.principal.com/2019/01/09/4th-quarter-heartbreak-for-many-db-plan-sponsors/
Read MoreSURPRISE! YOU’VE GOT MONEY!
http://www.wizdomone.com/resource-center/money/surprise-youve-got-money
Read MoreLooking Back on Lehman’s Demise
Ten years on, are we in danger of repeating the sins of the past? https://www.wealthmanagement...
Read MoreWhite House looks to relax rules for workplace retirement plans
If it were easier for small businesses to band together to offer sponsored retirement plans, would more workers begin saving?
Read MoreFlorida Isn't the Best Place to Retire (It's Actually #8)
Florida Isn't the Best Place to Retire (It's Actually #8) https://www.kiplinger.com/slideshow/retirement/T006-S001-all-50-states-ranked-for-retirement-2018/index.html
Read MoreSocial Security is worse than the government says it is, according to the Wharton School of Busines
The financial state of Social Security is worse than the government says it is, according to the Wharton School of Business at the University of Pennsylvania. https://www.fa-mag...
Read MoreHouse Passes Legislation to Improve HSAs
The House of Representatives passed two pieces of legislation that, among other things, purport to improve and “modernize” health savings accounts (“HSAs”). More Details Here
Read MoreWords of Wisdom from T. Boone Pickens
You can be old at 30 or young at 90 - it’s all up to you. Read More to Decide
Read MoreFinal Association Health Plan Rules
With much anticipation, the Department of Labor released the Final Rules for Association Health Plans (“AHPs”) last week. These rules have been expected since President Trump issued Executive Order 1381, on October 12, 2017...
Read MoreWhat Anthony Bourdain Taught Me About Entrepreneurship
Great article. "My heart is heavy after hearing that Anthony Bourdain, a man that inspired so many of us to eat better, travel well, and, in general, live life on our own terms, has left us. His impact resonates with millions of people...
Read MoreDo You Sometimes Feel Like You Are Working With the Wrong Financial Advisor ? You are not alone.
Do You Sometimes Feel Like You Are Working With the Wrong Financial Advisor ? You are not alone. Click Here to Read More
Read MoreIf one is the loneliest number, then there are some lonely retirement accounts out there
Most 401(k) Participants Now Buy Only One Fund—But They're Better Diversified Than Ever ? Click Here
Read MoreThe battle over the SALT deduction is just beginning !
Surprise! The IRS Objects to Tax-Saving Measures.
Read MoreFinancial Myths That Are Totally False ?
It’s astonishing how much financial misinformation manages to float around the Internet. Wisdom has been replaced by knowledge which has been replaced by information ...... just trying to reverse that trend.
Read MoreDo You Have a Personal Financial Advocate ?
A financial professional with the ability to help you get "from here to there." Find Out More
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