Bitcoin: Currency or Asset?


Over the last decade much has been made of the cryptocurrency space, more specifically Bitcoin.     While some have embraced it, others still shun it as either an asset or a currency.   To date, it is not something we are comfortable investing in.   However, we remain open to the possibility as Bitcoin and other such cryptocurrencies…

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Market Volatility: Friend or Foe?


Market volatility is not something that investors enjoy, as none of us like to see our assets decline, even if it is for just a brief period of time.    However, volatility is inevitable and must be dealt with to be a successful investor.   When investing for the future, most investors use some form of…

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Foreign Stocks: Do They Still Make Sense?


The importance of diversification has been well established across the investment research literature over many decades.     It is a relatively easy principle for most investors to accept.   The words “don’t keep all of your eggs in one basket” is one of the most common phrases repeated over time.   However, asset allocation is just as…

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Interest Rates and Real Estate: What Can You Expect?


Recently we’ve seen signs of softening in the housing market due to the increase in interest rates to combat inflation.   The concerns around a future recession often bring about concerns of declining asset prices, from stocks to bonds and real estate.   In the case of home prices, historically one of the biggest drivers of…

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Cost Basis vs Performance: How to Understand your Monthly Statement


One of the confusing aspects of reading a monthly statement or your positions page on the website from your brokerage firm is the gain and loss column.    While this is something that sounds like it should be fairly straightforward, it isn’t.   Many investors often confuse what reflects as a current gain or loss for their…

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When Should You Collect Social Security?


Among the most consistent questions my colleagues and I have received as financial planners from investors relates to the timing of when they should take their Social Security (SS) benefits.  Social Security is a relatively complex system with many rules that pertain to various circumstances.  Let me first emphasize that there are no absolute answers,…

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Understanding IRMAA: Income Related Monthly Adjustment Amount for Medicare


In 2003, in order to address a shortfall in Medicare, Congress passed the Medical Modernization Act of 2003.  In it, they created a progressive monthly surcharge to Medicare Part B coverage (which covers outpatient services) called the Income Related Monthly Adjustment Amount or IRMAA.  The surcharge began affecting those on Medicare in 2007.  In 2010,…

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What to Do When you Inherit Assets


If you are expecting to inherit a sum of money, there are many key considerations to be aware of in order to make the most of your inheritance regardless of the amount.  As you can imagine, the decisions can be tough but as with anything, going in with a plan is the best course of…

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Banks and Brokerage Firms: How Safe Am I?


In light of the recent headlines around bank failures, which may have brought back some very bad memories for those investors who lived through the 2008 financial crisis, it is helpful to examine what the rules are in order to sleep better at night.   When it comes to a bank or a credit union,…

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“Timing the Market” vs “Time in the Market”


Investing can be a very emotional rollercoaster ride for many individuals.   These emotions are inherently counterintuitive.   The desire to sell during difficult periods can be quite strong.   Additionally, the desire to put money to work when markets are doing well can be equally as strong.   These emotions often lead investors to sell low and buy…

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