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May 2026 Market Update: Record Highs, Rising Rates, Inflation, and a New Fed Chair
U.S. stocks reached new all-time highs in May despite persistent inflation concerns and rising interest rates. In this month's market update, Summit Puri explores the impact of elevated bond yields, the Federal Reserve leadership transition, and what these developments mean for long-term investors.

Summit Puri
2 days ago4 min read


When Should You Claim Social Security? Key Factors to Consider Before Filing
Deciding when to claim Social Security is one of the most important retirement decisions you'll make. In this article, Associate Financial Advisor Mica Dauch explains the advantages of delaying benefits, important earnings limits to understand, special considerations for married couples, and how the breakeven age can help guide your claiming strategy.

Mica Dauch
3 days ago2 min read


Calendar vs. Threshold Rebalancing: Which Strategy Helps Keep Your Portfolio on Track?
Rebalancing is often called one of investing's "free lunches" because it can help reduce risk and improve portfolio discipline without requiring investors to take on additional risk. In this article, Associate Financial Advisor Clay Reynolds explains the differences between calendar and threshold rebalancing, why both approaches matter, and how a hybrid strategy may help investors stay aligned with their long-term financial objectives.

Clay Reynolds
3 days ago3 min read


A smarter college savings strategy can create opportunities far beyond tuition.
When it comes to saving for a child’s future, flexibility matters. In this article, Associate Financial Advisor Joseph Browning shares why UTMA accounts can be a powerful alternative to traditional college savings plans, offering families greater freedom to use funds for education, life expenses, and long-term financial opportunities.
Joe Mains
May 273 min read


Are Your Finances Actually Healthy? 5 Ratios That Can Help You Find Out
Real Talk: Are my Finances “Healthy”? Almost everyone on God’s green Earth pauses at some point and asks themselves the same question: “How am I doing financially?” “Am I saving enough for retirement?”“Do I have too much debt?”“Are my expenses reasonable for what I earn, or am I one unexpected event away from financial stress?” What makes these questions so difficult is that there’s no such thing as a truly “average” life. People have different incomes, careers, family si
Joseph Browning
May 273 min read


Energy Shock or Inflation Spiral? Understanding Why CPI Hit a Three-Year High
April’s CPI report showed inflation climbing to 3.8%, the highest level since 2023, largely fueled by sharp increases in energy prices tied to Middle East oil disruptions. While core inflation remains more contained, elevated energy costs continue to create uncertainty for consumers, markets, and Federal Reserve policy decisions.

Summit Puri
May 182 min read


Why Doing “Nothing” is Sometimes the Smartest Move
Market volatility can tempt investors into making emotional decisions at exactly the wrong time. In this article, Financial Advisor Nick Allen explains why staying disciplined, trusting your long-term plan, and resisting the urge to react during downturns can often lead to better financial outcomes.

Nick Allen
May 145 min read


ESOP Strategies That Work: How to Diversify, Reduce Taxes, and Protect Your Retirement
An Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) can become one of your greatest retirement assets—or one of your biggest risks if left unmanaged. In this article, Associate Financial Advisor Joseph Browning explains the three critical phases of ESOP planning: understanding your plan, diversifying strategically, and creating a tax-aware retirement income strategy.
Joseph Browning
May 143 min read


The Wisdom of Consolidation Loans - What do you think?
Is debt consolidation really the answer to financial stress? In this edition of Investment Corner, Financial Advisor and Certified Ramsey Solutions Master Financial Coach Joe Mains shares why lasting financial peace comes from changing behaviors—not simply moving debt around—and how the debt snowball method can help families regain control of their finances.

Joe Mains
May 73 min read


Investment Lessons from the Bull Market Cycle and the Wall of Worry
More than three years into the current bull market, investors continue to face uncertainty—from inflation concerns to AI-driven volatility. Yet history shows that disciplined, long-term investing and diversification remain the most reliable path forward, even as markets climb a persistent “wall of worry.”

Summit Puri
May 45 min read


Thrift Savings Plan - Is Roth Conversion Right for You?
The Thrift Savings Plan now allows in-plan Roth conversions, giving federal employees and military members new flexibility in managing retirement taxes. But while this strategy can unlock tax-free growth, it also comes with important rules, timing considerations, and potential pitfalls that require careful planning.

Drew Hodgson
Apr 235 min read


What Rising Gasoline Prices Mean for Consumers and the Economy
Rising gasoline prices are more than just a frustration at the pump—they’re a signal of broader economic shifts. As energy costs climb amid geopolitical tensions, consumers, inflation, and market expectations are all feeling the ripple effects.

Summit Puri
Apr 133 min read


Q1 2026 Market Update: Navigating Geopolitical Tensions, Oil Shocks, and Market Volatility
In this Q1 2026 market recap, Chief Operating Officer & Co-Chief Investment Officer Summit Puri breaks down the impact of geopolitical tensions, rising oil prices, and economic uncertainty on global markets—and what it means for long-term investors.

Summit Puri
Apr 27 min read


Umbrella Insurance: The Extra Layer of Protection Your Financial Plan Needs
Most people rely on home and auto insurance to protect their assets—but what happens when those limits aren’t enough? Umbrella insurance provides an added layer of liability coverage that helps safeguard your savings, investments, and future income from unexpected claims or lawsuits.

Mica Dauch
Apr 12 min read


How Oil Prices and AI Are Reshaping Stock Market Sectors and Portfolios
Oil prices surging above $100 and the rapid evolution of AI are driving one of the most significant sector rotations in recent years. Discover how energy, technology, and defensive sectors are reshaping portfolios—and what it means for long-term investors.

Summit Puri
Mar 255 min read


My Spouse Just Passed – Should I Treat Their Retirement Accounts as Inherited, or My Own?
When a spouse passes away, managing retirement accounts can quickly become confusing. Associate Financial Advisor Joseph Browning explains the key differences between keeping an IRA as inherited or treating it as your own—and how that decision can affect taxes, withdrawals, and long-term financial planning.
Joseph Browning
Mar 113 min read


HSA vs FSA Breakdown
Confused about the difference between an HSA and an FSA? Associate Financial Advisor Clay Reynolds breaks down eligibility rules, 2026 contribution limits, tax advantages, and smart planning strategies to help you make the most of your healthcare dollars.

Clay Reynolds
Mar 44 min read


The Leisure Lie: A Retirement Unfulfilled?
Retirement is often portrayed as a permanent vacation, but true fulfillment comes from purpose, relationships, and meaningful engagement. This article challenges the cultural “leisure lie” and explores how retirees can build a rewarding next chapter grounded in connection and contribution.

Nick Allen
Feb 254 min read


Five Steps to Protect Your Family from Financial Fraud
Financial fraud is becoming more sophisticated with advances in artificial intelligence and digital technology. Learn five practical steps to protect your accounts, strengthen safeguards, and reduce your family’s risk of financial loss.

Whitaker Myers
Feb 162 min read


Preparing for Inflation: Practical Budgeting and Investment Strategies for a Higher-Cost World
Inflation has reshaped household budgets and long-term financial planning, with the cost of living rising nearly 20% since 2021. This article explores practical budget adjustments and investment strategies designed to help protect purchasing power and build resilience during prolonged inflationary periods.

Matthew Harris
Feb 113 min read
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