BlogMeans Wealth Insights
Estate Management Checklist
Do you have a Will? A will enables you to specify who you want to inherit your property and other assets. A will also enables you to name a guardian for your minor children. Do you have Healthcare Documents in place? Healthcare documents spell out your wishes for healthcare if … Continued
How are Roth & Traditional IRAs different?
Coke vs. Pepsi, Mayonnaise vs. Miracle Whip, Twizzlers vs. Red Vines, some conversations go on until the end of time. However, the first item listed in each pair is clearly the superior option. A major investment discussion is undoubtedly tax-free vs. tax-deferred retirement accounts. Though both are examples of tax-advantaged … Continued
Q1 2019 Recap & Commentary
Thankfully, the financial markets rebounded strongly from the dismal end to 2018. If we had to summarize the Q1 2019 market performance in a sentence, it would be this. Markets rebounded strongly from the fourth quarter selloff but began slowing as global growth fears and recession risks increased. As a … Continued
Active vs. Passive
“Investing should be more like watching paint dry or watching grass grow. If you want excitement, take $800 and go to Las Vegas.” – Paul Samuelson In most areas of life, the harder you work, the better your results should be. Similarly, the quicker you make decisions and actions, the … Continued
June 2019 Commentary
What a long, strange trip it’s been. The year 2019 started with strong growth. The market jumped in January to an 8% growth rate and continued its rise through February. A detour emerged in March that has taken the markets into choppy waters. Slowing growth after a busy first two … Continued
Q2 2019 Recap & Commentary
The spring months for financial markets (Q2 2019) were marked with new all-time highs, increased volatility, and plenty of geopolitical tension. In April, the S&P 500 reached an all-time closing high. In May, many investors were spooked by the lack of progress in trade negotiations between the U.S. and China. … Continued
Bitcoin, Blockchain, & Cryptocurrency
A Basic Explanation of Bitcoin Bitcoin is a form of cryptocurrency, just like the U.S. Dollar is a form of traditional currency. Theoretically, you can use cryptocurrency (crypto) to buy things online or in person. In practice, many merchants do not accept cryptocurrencies due to their high volatility. Unlike traditional … Continued
Socially Responsible Investing
Often investing focuses mainly on profits and returns. However, return doesn’t just have to be about the amount of money you earn. It can be about making a difference in the world you live in. Studies show helping others and charitable giving are two keys to lasting happiness and personal … Continued
Recession? You Bet! Keep Reading…
Will we have a recession? Is it coming? The answers to those questions are, “yes.” However, please keep reading. What nobody truly knows is when a recession will actually take place. Economists use charts, data, surveys-all of which are great but provide no clear indication of a recession. I’ve been … Continued
2020: Trump, Iran, & RMDs
Well, the first 20 days of 2020 have been very eventful. Trump is continuing with his never-ending tweets; Iran shot down a civilian Ukrainian airliner and shot missiles at US bases in Iraq; US and Iran tensions are higher than they have been in years; and if you turn 70.5 … Continued
Stocking Your Financial Planning Toolbox: Traditional & Roth IRAs
Having a well-stocked toolbox is key and you likely will want to use a variety of tools throughout the process. One of the best tools to consider “purchasing” for your toolbox is the Individual Retirement Account (IRA).
A Message from Means Wealth
Good Afternoon, Over the last few weeks, the consternation concerning personal health, our families, the markets, and the economy has been palpable. Like you, I am concerned. These are no doubt challenging times. Many clients expressed how different this situation feels, and I certainly cannot argue that. This is … Continued
