Newsletters

July

• HOT TOPIC: Hostage Data: Ransomware and Protecting Your Digital Information

  This article provides an overview of high-profile ransomware attacks and offers tips to help consumers protect their own data.

• Considerations When Making Gifts to Children

  This article provides an overview of tax provisions and other issues to consider when making significant gifts to children or grandchildren.

• A Steady Strategy

  Discover how dollar-cost averaging may help alleviate some market concerns by making regular investments regardless of market movements.

• Pension or Lump Sum: Which Should You Choose?

  Do you know the key factors to consider if offered an option to take a lump sum in lieu of a pension? Read this article to find out.

• Stock Market Risks in the Spotlight

  Find out how inflation and interest-rate fears, regulatory or legislative action, and other factors could influence stock prices in 2021.

• Bankruptcy Changes Throw a Lifeline to Sinking Small Businesses

  Many requirements that made it difficult and expensive for small businesses to reorganize using Chapter 11 have been loosened. Learn more.

June

• HOT TOPIC: Shortages and Bottlenecks Expose Weak Links in U.S. Supply Chains

  As a consumer, have you noticed shortages? Here are some of the reasons behind supply-chain problems and how they might impact the economy.

• New Changes to College Financial Aid and Education Tax Benefits

  The Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021, included several provisions affecting financial aid and education. Learn more.

• How Well Do You Understand Retirement Plan Rules?

  From IRAs to 401(k)s, qualified retirement plans can be complex. This short quiz tests readers’ knowledge of a few of the finer points.

• Is the Medicare Donut Hole Really Closed?

  This article explains the four stages of Part D prescription drug coverage and how prices can vary in the coverage gap.

• Corporate Debt: Are Juicier Yields Worth the Extra Risk?

  This article discusses corporate credit ratings and some differences between investment-grade and speculative-grade bonds.

• Your Business: New Rules for Writing Off Restaurant Meals

  The December 2020 stimulus bill lets businesses deduct the full cost of restaurant meals in tax years 2021 and 2022. Get the details.

May

• HOT TOPIC: Rising Inflation: Where Will It Go from Here?

  Read about the causes of the recent inflationary trend. Does it represent a short-term phase or the start of a longer-term acceleration in prices?

• Social Security Spousal Benefits

  This article offers an overview of spousal benefits, which could make a big difference in funding retirement for a married couple.

April

• HOT TOPIC: High-Frequency Indicators: Where to Look for Signs of Recovery

  This article discusses various high-frequency indicators economists use to monitor the pandemic’s impact and the economic recovery’s progress.

• A Financial Wellness Plan Can Help Pave the Road to Retirement

  This article outlines four elements of financial well-being and offers suggestions to strengthen financial wellness.

March

• HOT TOPIC: GameStop, Reddit, and Market Mania: What Happened?

  Learn the story behind the extreme volatility of “meme” stocks promoted through social media, including the risk for individual investors.

• Asset Protection: Make Sure Your Umbrella Is Big Enough

  While standard home and auto insurance may cover personal liability, a personal umbrella policy can help add an extra layer of protection.

February

• HOT TOPIC: Pandemic Relief Measures and Your Tax Return

  This article discusses various tax issues stemming from the two tax relief bills passed in 2020 in response to the pandemic and how they may affect you.

• Sequence Risk: Preparing to Retire in a Down Market

  This article offers a strategy that may help address sequence risk — the danger of poor investment performance at the outset of retirement.

• New Fed Policy Suggests Low Rates for the Long Term

  The Fed now seeks to control inflation through the benchmark federal funds rate. Find out what this means for investors and consumers.

January

• HOT TOPIC: Revisiting the 4% Rule

  For years, the “4% rule” helped retirees make their savings last, but now a more aggressive withdrawal strategy might be the new norm.

• Prepare Your Finances for the Next Emergency

  The pandemic has underscored the importance of a well-stocked emergency fund. This article offers tips for building up a cash reserve.