Biblically Responsible Investing (BRI) is an investment practice that filters out companies engaged in activities that conflict with biblical values. There are several different organizations that define various activities which do not represent Christian values.
2023 has been an intense year for union workers nationwide in many industries, from UPS workers to actors and writers. With high inflation rates have come high demands during contract negotiations. The buzz surrounding current talks between the UAW and the Big Three (GM, Ford, and Stellantis) has been no different. As negotiations prolong and a contract expiration date of September 14 is looming, many UAW workers are having increased concern over the prospect of a lengthy strike.
No, I’m not talking about that “B” word! I’m talking about that curse word known as a BUDGET. I commonly refer to your budget as “Lifestyle”. Now, I’m not talking about a budget in the sense that everyone has to have an itemized spreadsheet or spend countless hours a week micromanaging transactions. In generalities, a budget is having an idea of how much income is coming in and how much in expenses are going out. Typically, most households run their budget on a month to month basis for simplicity. This gives us an idea of how much money is left over each month. To be frank, when you retire not only will you have to know your budget, but you will also have to live within it. Otherwise, you run the risk of running out of money. At some point, you will need to carefully manage income and expenses, so why not start practicing today?
Every profession has unique facts, concepts, theories, methods, and advancements. However, what is common between excelling in professions is the requirement of a broad and deep understanding of all the elements involved in determining results. The CFA Institute is the industry leader in providing a broad and deep financial education for investment professionals.
I was recently at a conference for independent financial advisors hosted by Charles Schwab. After a three-year hiatus, this annual conference was finally back in person. My favorite aspect of these meetings is not the presentations, entertainment, or even the location, but rather the opportunity to engage with other financial advisors from around the country.
In 2012, McLaren Health Care froze its pension plan. Since then all employees had access to a 403(b) retirement savings plan but the pension plan remained frozen. Last year, McLaren made the decision to terminate the pension plan. The termination of the pension plan is unfolding now.
Springtime is almost here! Spring brings a sense of renewal and optimism after the long dreary winter months. As the warmer weather moves in, we tend to find ourselves feeling more motivated, ready to clear out the old and bring in the new! Spring cleaning is a popular tradition for many, as it provides a chance to clear out any stagnant clutter and stale air. We kick off the season with scrubbing, organizing, and decluttering all of the physical aspects of our home and lives.
Cash is truly a horrible investment. I’m not talking about folding paper; I'm talking about savings accounts, money markets, and short-term CDs. In the same breath that I say cash is trash, I could also say cash is king. Cash is king as it is the single most important financial planning tool.