Tag: finance
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Should You Pay Off Your Mortgage Early or Invest Instead?
For many families, the mortgage is the largest monthly bill — and one of the biggest long-term financial commitments. It’s natural to wonder: Should I throw every extra dollar at paying down the house, or should I put that money to work by investing it? The truth is, the “right” choice depends on your financial…
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What Just Happened: The Fed’s First Rate Cut of 2025 & What Comes Next
On September 17, 2025, the U.S. Federal Reserve reduced its benchmark interest rate by a quarter-percentage point, moving it to a range of 4.00%–4.25%, from its prior higher range. This is the first time rates have been cut in 2025. Along with the cut, the Fed signaled there will likely be two more rate…
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The Cost of Raising Kids: How to Plan Beyond Daycare and Sports Fees
Most parents already know kids aren’t cheap. Between daycare, school supplies, and sports fees, the costs can feel never-ending. But the real financial impact of raising children often goes far beyond the visible, day-to-day expenses. A thoughtful financial plan can help you prepare not only for the current costs of raising children but also for…
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Why Every Family Should Have a Financial Plan (Even if You Think You’re Doing Fine)
When life feels comfortable — bills are being paid, savings is happening, and things seem on track — it’s easy to assume a financial plan isn’t necessary. But the truth is, families that appear to be “doing fine” often face hidden risks or missed opportunities that only surface years later. A financial plan isn’t just…
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Top 5 Mistakes Families Make With Retirement Savings
Planning for retirement can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re juggling careers, raising kids, and managing everyday expenses. But avoiding common mistakes can make a meaningful difference in how far your retirement dollars go. Below are five pitfalls families often face—and steps you can take to help avoid them. ⸻ 1. Starting Too Late Many families…
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What Should Families Prioritize First: Paying Off Debt, Saving for College, or Retirement?
When you’re raising a family and juggling bills, it’s common to feel pulled in a hundred financial directions. Should you pay off debt first? Start putting money away for your kids’ college? Focus on retirement savings while there’s still time? There’s no one-size-fits-all answer—but understanding the impact of each choice can help you make smarter,…
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Weekly Market Update: April 28 – May 5, 2025
It was a mixed week across the financial markets as investors processed fresh economic data, rising interest rates, and ongoing tariff tensions between the U.S. and China. The S&P 500 ended the week slightly higher, closing around 5,650, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average also posting modest gains. However, the Nasdaq slipped as technology stocks…
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Weekly Market Update: April 21–27, 2025
Stocks Rally Worldwide Markets had a strong week. • S&P 500 rose 4.6%, Nasdaq surged 6.7%, and the Dow gained 2.5% as investors cheered strong earnings and hopes of easing trade tensions. • Global stocks also moved higher: Europe’s DAX jumped nearly 5%, and Asia’s Nikkei and Hang Seng climbed over 2.5% each. • Gains…
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Weekly Market Update: April 7–13, 2025
Stock Markets Bounce Back U.S. stocks rebounded sharply this week after a rocky start. The S&P 500 rose about 5.7%, the Dow gained 5%, and the Nasdaq jumped 7.3%—marking their best week in months. Early losses were caused by concerns over rising tariffs and a potential trade war with China. However, a midweek announcement from…
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Tax Season Reminder – April 15 Deadline
Tax Day is almost here! A friendly reminder that April 15, 2025 is the deadline for filing your 2024 tax return (or filing for an extension). It’s also the last day to take care of certain tax-related tasks that can benefit your financial plan. Here are a few quick points to keep in mind as…
