Blog

Consumer spending continues to power the U.S. economy, even as confidence remains historically low. Summit Puri examines the mixed signals shaping today's economic landscape—from record household wealth and resilient retail sales to elevated debt, lower savings, and persistent inflation—and explains what long-term investors should focus on.

SpaceX's historic IPO has captured investors' attention and sparked questions about whether now is the time to buy. In this article, John-Mark Young explores what makes SpaceX unique, why valuation matters, and how disciplined investors can participate in innovation without abandoning a long-term financial plan.

Whitaker-Myers Wealth Managers is proud to announce that John-Mark Young, CFP®, has been named to AdvisorHub's 2026 Advisors to Watch ranking for the fourth consecutive year. The recognition highlights his commitment to comprehensive financial planning, tax-aware strategies, client service, and sustained practice growth.

Many people avoid looking closely at their finances because they don't know where to start or fear what they might find. In this practical guide, Associate Financial Advisor Drew Hodgson explains how taking a simple snapshot of your income and expenses can turn financial stress into clarity and help you build a plan for moving forward with confidence.

With recent headlines surrounding the potential SpaceX IPO capturing investor attention, many people are asking what an IPO actually is and how to evaluate one. In this educational guide, Financial Advisor Nick Allen explains how companies go public, what to look for in an IPO prospectus, and why a great company doesn't always make a great investment at any price.

More than 30 years ago, Joe Mains and his wife discovered Dave Ramsey's teachings on a clearance rack cassette tape, a moment that forever changed their finances, marriage, and future. In this personal story, Joe shares how the same principles that helped him win with money recently inspired a life-changing health transformation and why lasting change begins when you're truly "sick and tired of being sick and tired."

As Trump Accounts prepare to launch on July 4, 2026, families can take early steps now to understand eligibility, contribution rules, and how to open and fund these new tax-advantaged custodial savings accounts designed for long-term growth.

Refinancing your mortgage can lower your monthly payment and free up cash to support other financial goals, but it's important to understand the true costs involved. Learn how interest rates, discount points, closing costs, and your break-even point can help determine whether refinancing is the right move for your financial future.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 situations, ages,...

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.”

The S&P 500 has reached new all-time highs following a volatile stretch driven by geopolitical developments, easing oil market concerns, and strong corporate earnings. While headlines have focused on the Middle East and energy prices, underlying fundamentals and broad diversification continue to support investor outcomes.

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.