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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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

SchoolsFirst FCU Family Matters, Investing

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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Ask the Financial Counselor: Navigating Money Setbacks

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 By Susana Raya

Susan is a financial expert with GreenPath Financial Wellness, the national nonprofit organization that provides financial counseling, education and products to empower people to lead financially healthy lives. Through their work with GreenPath, Susana has helped people with debt and credit management, homeownership education, and foreclosure prevention.

As the pandemic continues, many Americans are trying to figure out how to juggle expenses, get the most mileage out of unemployment, and keep current with housing and other essentials. And while financial relief programs have helped, whether they’ll be extended to provide further aid is uncertain. Continue reading →

Don’t Overlook These Credit Card Perks

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If you’ve spent months saving for a big-ticket item like a new refrigerator or a giant flat-screen TV, paying for it with cash might be a mistake. Credit cards offer numerous benefits frequently overlooked in the name of “saving money.” But, not using plastic might wind up costing you big. In fact, your 16-digit account number could be the key to unlocking deep discounts, additional buyer protections, and other money-saving perks.

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4 Credit Card Benefits That Save Time and Money

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Credit cards offer more than just a convenient way to pay for things in stores and online. There’s also the increased purchasing power and potential for cash rewards that make them attractive. But, it’s the lesser-known and often underutilized credit card benefits that could hold the key to additional savings. A recent J.D. Power study found that only 36% of credit cardholders1 fully understand all their card’s benefits. Surprisingly, such perks can bring the most value to your finances.

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Ask the Advisor: 5 Money Moves to Make Now

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by Tom Aguilera

Since 1996, Tom has had a passion for helping investors make sound financial plans and discovering the investments that are right for them. During this difficult time, you may wonder if you’re making the right decisions when it comesto your finances. Whether you’re worried about job security, your investing decisions or having enough emergency savings to weather the storm, here are some tips to help you stay on track.

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