Investing

Ask the Advisor: Understanding Annuities

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By Jonathan Young

Since 2008, Jonathan has been passionate about building trusting relationships with Members to help them reach their financial goals. He believes that financial plans should be built with a specific objective in mind, like living comfortably in retirement, saving for college, or buying a house.

Depending on your investment profile, you may want to consider including an annuity as part of your investment portfolio.  Annuities can have features that provide a more moderate approach to help build retirement savings.  They can also be used to create an income stream you can’t outlive.

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Understanding Market Losses: Paper Versus Reality

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In a volatile stock market, your emotions might let new highs and record lows drive your short-term decisions. The drastic ups and downs can make you feel confident one day and queasy the next. When your investment is reaching new highs, you might feel on top of the world. But, when your investment hits new lows, confidence wanes. The market’s volatile nature might even lead you to jump ship on your savings goals. Unfortunately, this could cost you over the long term.

It’s possible to remain calm during what feels like a financial roller coaster ride if you better understand market declines and the need for a smart investment strategy. When you pair the two, you’re more likely to meet your financial targets.

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Tax Tips for Investors

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Some years, Congress changes the rules investors face. Other years, the economy necessitates rethinking the best-laid investment plans. In between, investors’ personal situations change, from the arrival of children to the loss of a job.

“Investors face a changing environment,” says Fred H. Thomas, branch manager of Raymond James Financial Associates in Johnstown, Pennsylvania. “They need to maximize their investment dollars.”

Taxpayers trying to build wealth can weather the ups and downs of the tax side of that volatile environment by following a few historically helpful steps. Continue reading →

Investing Moves Under a New President

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When there’s a change of leadership in the White House, many investors feel compelled to make changes with their investments, too. But making a sudden departure from an investing strategy can often do more harm than good, particularly when it comes to retirement savings. Conventional wisdom dictates sticking with the fundamentals of asset allocation and keeping a long-term perspective.

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Ask the Advisor: Should I Contribute to an IRA?

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by Andy Han

Since 2005, Andy has been assisting Credit Union Members with their financial services. He’s passionate about educating Members and stresses that it’s critical they are comfortable with their personalized financial plan and understand how it works.

Many Americans are lucky enough to have a retirement savings plan through their employment. But if you don’t have that option, an Individual Retirement Account – or IRA – allows anyone with earned income to save for retirement. And if you’re self-employed, you can use an IRA to create your own retirement plan. In addition, there are special rules that may allow a stay-at-home spouse to contribute to one as well. Continue reading →

The Benefits of Asset Allocation in a Stormy Market

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Investing in the stock market can be intimidating, even when the economy is booming. While “buy low, sell high” is sage advice for those entering the market, recent global and national events have sent otherwise confident investors on a roller coaster of emotions. It’s understandable. There have been several twists and turns in the market in 2020, and experts are expecting even more in the coming year. But that doesn’t mean investors can’t protect their hard-earned money with an asset allocation strategy.

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10 Money Moves to Make in Your 70s

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When you reach your 70s, life slows down a little. You may be planning to retire, or already living in retirement. Whatever your situation, there are ways to make your 70s more enjoyable and stress free, especially when it comes to managing your finances. If you still choose to work in some capacity, or simply want to enjoy your leisure time and hobbies, here are some tips to help you live the retirement you want.

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10 Money Moves to Make in Your 60s

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Entering your 60s could mean you’re getting ready to reap your financial harvest. But, after decades of careful spending and saving, you may still be hesitant to say goodbye to full-time employment. If you’re still carrying high-interest rate debt, making a hefty mortgage payment, or wondering if you have enough money in savings, delaying retirement might be a good idea. Before you exit the workforce, reassess your finances and be prepared to reboot your retirement plan, as needed.

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