Thanksgiving may be over, and we may be recovering from our food comas and trying to work off the extra pounds we put on, but that’s no reason to stop giving thanks for all of our benefits. For American investors, in particular, there are many things to be thankful for. When looking at all the options available to investors,...
One of the greatest benefits of the post-World War II economic boom was that many workers became so well off that they could retire comfortably once they reached their golden years. The days of living paycheck to paycheck and having to work into old age until no one would keep you employed ceased to become a reality for millions...
The Republican tax reform bill has finally been introduced in the House of Representatives, allowing us finally to see what could be in store for us in the future. A much higher standard deduction, fewer tax brackets, and significant changes to tax credits have garnered many headlines. Less well-appreciated are the changes that could be coming to 401(k) plans...
What do you think of when you think of retirement? A relaxing vacation on the beach, daiquiri in hand, watching the sun go down over the water? Or how about a brisk hike through the Alps, taking in the bright blue rivers and jagged snow-capped mountain peaks? For most people that’s the dream, but for more and more that’s...
Recent reports that Congress had considered significant reductions to 401(k) contributions have spurred calls from some quarters for a return to pension plans. But while much discussion of pensions paints them in a nostalgic light, the reality of pensions for most people is far less rosy. Yes, it would be nice to be able to retire and continue being...
Most Americans understand that saving for retirement is important. Over the past several years, increased amounts of education and understanding have helped Americans save up more and more money for retirement. Total retirements assets have risen from $11.6 trillion in 2000 to nearly $27 trillion today. Thanks to the increased focus on the importance of retirement savings, the increased...
In another sign of the growing economic bubble, Moody’s has flagged growing debt levels among Americans as a rising risk for financial institutions. Households considered to have high debt levels are those whose debt ratio is greater than 40%. Those households in the lowest income quintile have the highest percentage of high debt burdens, with over 20% facing high debt....
One of the Trump Administration’s most highly-awaited proposals is the one for tax reform. As with any reform proposal, the devil is in the details, but some of the first proposals sound good on their face. As anyone who has ever had to file taxes understands, the tax code is in serious need of reform. And while previous proposals...
News reports recently have been full of tales of cyber attacks against financial institutions. From credit reporting bureau Equifax to the Securities and Exchange Commission, to accounting giant Deloitte, no institution seems to be safe from hackers. With a society that does an increasing amount of business online, that potential vulnerability could wreak havoc on savers and investors. More and...
Most sane investors have an inkling that financial markets are in a bubble. But just having a general sense that things aren’t right sometimes isn’t enough. Looking at actual statistics can put into perspective just how large some of these bubbles have grown. Housing Bubbles The Case-Shiller 20-City Composite Home Price Index has moved past its pre-crisis levels and has increased...