John-Mark Young , President & Co-Chief Investment Officer at Whitaker-Myers Wealth Managers, has been named to the prestigious Forbes  list of Top In-State Wealth Advisors  for 2025. This honor reflects John-Mark’s deep commitment to transforming the lives of his clients through principled financial planning and heartfelt service. The Forbes  ranking , developed in partnership with SHOOK Research, is known for its rigorous selection process. It emphasizes both quantitative excellence and the qualitative impact advisors have on their clients’ lives. Out of nearly 49,000 nominations nationwide, only a small percentage of advisors are selected after extensive telephone and in-person interviews, evaluation of compliance records, and thorough reviews of business practices and service models. With over a decade of experience and a growing list of credentials—including AIF®, ChFC®, CKA®, RICP®, RMA®, NSSA®, and an advanced certificate in blockchain and digital assets—John-Mark has earned a reputation for leadership, integrity, and excellence. His vision for financial planning goes beyond the balance sheet; it’s about helping families steward their resources in a way that aligns with their values, priorities, and purpose. In receiving this award, John-Mark is quick to shift the spotlight to others. “This is not a solo achievement,” he shared. “I’m incredibly grateful to the amazing team at Whitaker-Myers Wealth Managers   who share the same passion for client impact, integrity, and stewardship. They are the engine behind everything we do.” He also extended sincere appreciation to the team at Ramsey Solutions , noting, “Our missions align so closely—helping everyday families experience freedom, clarity, and peace with their finances. It’s an honor to serve alongside such a values-driven organization.” John-Mark also acknowledges the foundational support of his wife, Megan, who he calls “the cornerstone of our family.” Her encouragement and faith give him the strength to lead both at home and in the office. “Megan’s unwavering support and belief in me allows me to be the husband, father, and leader I’m called to be. I simply couldn’t do this without her.” This recognition from Forbes  is not just a professional milestone—it’s a reflection of a life and career built on purpose, service, and a desire to make a difference. John-Mark’s story is a reminder that great financial advice isn’t just about smart investing—it’s about building relationships, empowering families, and walking with clients through every stage of life. Congratulations, John-Mark, on this well-earned achievement and the lasting legacy you’re creating through Whitaker-Myers Wealth Managers.

We understand the markets when they are moving around in big swings can be exhilarating when they go up and painful when they go down. Please enjoy these verses that I memorized and used when going through my Certified Kingdom Advisors designation. The Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA®) designation equipped me with the tools and training to provide financial advice that aligns with Biblical principles. It’s not just about managing money—it’s about stewardship, contentment, and honoring God with every financial decision. This designation has deepened my understanding of Scripture as it relates to personal finance and enables me to integrate faith and wisdom in a way that brings eternal perspective to everyday planning. As a CKA®, I help clients make choices that are not only financially sound but also spiritually grounded, ensuring their plans reflect both Biblical truth and practical strategy, incluidng during a 10-20-30% tariff market meltdown. Isaiah 41:10-13 (ESV) 10   Fear not, for I am with you;be not dismayed, for I am your God;I will strengthen you, I will help you,I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. 11   Behold, all who are incensed against youshall be put to shame and confounded;those who strive against youshall be as nothing and shall perish. 12   You shall seek those who contend with you,but you shall not find them;those who war against youshall be as nothing at all. 13   For I, the Lord your God,hold your right hand;it is I who say to you, “Fear not,I am the one who helps you.” Philippians 4:6-7 (ESV) 6   Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. 7   And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Psalm 55:22 (ESV) Cast your burden on the Lord, and he will sustain you;he will never permit the righteous to be moved. Matthew 6:25–34 (ESV) 25   “Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing? 26   Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? 27   And which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life? 28   And why are you anxious about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin, 29   yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. 30   But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is alive and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? 31   Therefore do not be anxious, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ 32   For the Gentiles seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. 33   But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. 34   Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble. 1 Peter 5:6-7 (ESV) 6   Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, 7   casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you. Psalm 94:17–19 (ESV) 17   If the Lord had not been my help,my soul would soon have lived in the land of silence. 18   When I thought, “My foot slips,”your steadfast love, O Lord, held me up. 19   When the cares of my heart are many,your consolations cheer my soul. Matthew 11:28–30 (ESV) 28   Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 29   Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30   For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” Proverbs 3:5–6 (ESV) 5   Trust in the Lord with all your heart,and do not lean on your own understanding. 6   In all your ways acknowledge him,and he will make straight your paths. 2 Corinthians 12:9–10 (ESV) 9   But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. 10   For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong. Romans 8:38–39 (ESV) 38   For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, 39   nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord. Psalm 23:1–6 (ESV) 1   The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. 2   He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. 3   He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake. 4   Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. 5   You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. 6   Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever. Romans 15:13 (ESV) May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope. Jeremiah 17:7–8 (ESV) 7   Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, whose trust is the Lord. 8   He is like a tree planted by water, that sends out its roots by the stream, and does not fear when heat comes, for its leaves remain green, and is not anxious in the year of drought, for it does not cease to bear fruit.

Whitaker-Myers Wealth Managers is excited to announce the promotion of Summit Puri  to Co-Chief Investment Officer . In this new role, Summit will work alongside President and Chief Investment Officer John-Mark Young , helping guide the firm’s portfolio construction, monitoring, and research initiatives as the company continues its mission to deliver world-class financial planning and investment management solutions. This promotion is the culmination of a long-term vision that began in early 2024. Over the past year, Summit immersed himself in the firm’s investment philosophy, took on internal research projects, and launched the popular “ Summit’s Investment Corner ”—a recurring internal and external insight series designed to deepen understanding of current market dynamics. To further validate his growing expertise, Summit recently completed the Certified Investment Management Analyst® (CIMA®)  designation through the Investment & Wealth Institute , taught by Yale University faculty . Widely regarded as one of the most prestigious designations in the industry, the CIMA® equips professionals to blend theory and practice at the highest level of investment consulting. In the coming years, Summit plans to continue his investment education by pursuing the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA®)  designation. In his new role, Summit will take a lead in overseeing and enhancing the firm’s core equity models. He is already spearheading initiatives focused on reducing investment costs, increasing portfolio diversification , and maintaining risk-adjusted return objectives . Beginning in April , clients and advisors will also benefit from quarterly portfolio summaries  authored by Summit, which will include: Executive summaries of portfolio performance Highlights of key contributors and detractors Comparative returns over 1, 3, 5, and 10-year periods versus the firm’s benchmark (aligned with Dave Ramsey’s philosophy ) As part of this enhanced investment process, Summit also leads the Whitaker-Myers’ internal Investment Committee , which now meets monthly to review portfolio allocations and discuss market trends. Advisors and team members will receive monthly summaries  of these meetings, creating a new layer of transparency and ensuring that every investment decision is grounded in conviction—even during periods of underperformance. “Summit’s growth and leadership in our investment process have been outstanding,” said John-Mark Young, President and CIO of Whitaker-Myers. “This promotion reflects both his hard work and our firm’s long-term strategy to build a research-driven, advisor-supported, and client-focused investment platform. We’re excited for the impact he will continue to make.” Please join us in congratulating Summit Puri on this well-earned promotion!

The 19th century author Balzac wrote that “our worst misfortunes never happen, and most miseries lie in anticipation.” This quote perfectly captures 2024, a year of major market, economic, and political concerns for many investors. Worries over a “hard landing” recession, market pullbacks, election turmoil, and more drove market sentiment to extremes. Yet, as we approach the end of the year, many of the miseries that investors feared did not take place. As a matter of fact, they almost never do. Instead, the S&P 500 is near record levels, inflation is subsiding, the economy is growing steadily, and the Fed has begun to cut interest rates. This is a reminder that excessive worry can lead investors to make decisions that may not serve their long-term interests. I've often quoted to clients during times of stress and fear Philippians 4:6-7 , "do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds, Christ Jesus." If the past few years have been about extremes – the bear markets of 2020 and 2022, compared to the sharp rebounds in 2021, 2023, and 2024 – then 2025 should be about regaining balance. This is as much about investor emotion as it is about the economic data. History shows that those who can maintain a disciplined, long-term approach are better positioned to achieve financial success. This will only grow in importance in the coming year. Stock market valuations are well above average, the path of interest rates is now uncertain after last week, doubts about artificial intelligence are emerging, and geopolitical risks are escalating in some parts of the world and de-escalating in others. There will likely be many more unforeseen events that will heighten investor concerns. Fortunately, the lessons of the past year can guide financial decisions in 2025 and beyond. Below, we present five important insights that can provide investors with perspective even when the world seems uncertain and other investors fear the worst. 1. A stronger-than-expected economy has supported all asset classes A year ago, investors spent much of their time worrying about a “hard landing” as the Fed kept rates high to fight inflation. Fortunately, this never materialized. Instead, inflation is returning to pre-pandemic levels, the job market is healthy, and economic growth is steady. Few investors expected such a positive scenario twelve months ago. The Consumer Price Index, a measure of inflation, has slowed to only 2.6% year-over-year. Unemployment remains low at only 4.2%, and 2.3 million new jobs have been created over the past twelve months. GDP growth, at 2.8% in the third quarter, has been stronger than many economists anticipated. All these are stats you can be updated weekly on by listening to our Investment Research Analyst Summit Puri, on his incredible weekly video and podcast, What We Learned in the Markets . This economic expansion has helped to propel many asset classes. U.S. stock market indices are near all-time highs, international stocks have continued to rise albeit at a slower pace, and bonds have performed better in recent weeks, with interest rates moderating. Gold is near record levels due to demand from investors and central banks. Bitcoin has also risen to historic highs following the presidential election, and it has finally topped 100,000. This does not mean there are no challenges ahead. Consumer spending could slow as excess savings are spent, and debt levels are high for both households and businesses. Assets that have risen sharply could experience greater volatility as well. In times like these, focusing on fundamentals such as earnings and valuations will be important. 2. Expensive stock market valuations underscore the need for portfolio management and a trusted advisor One reason for higher stock prices is the strength of corporate America. Corporate earnings have grown 8.6% over the past twelve months, rising to $236 per share for the S&P 500. However, the fact that the stock market has risen far more than earnings means that valuations have increased. The price-to-earnings ratio is 22.3, meaning that investors are paying $22.30 today for every dollar of future earnings. This is well above the historical average of 15.7, and is nearing the historic peak of 24.5 during the dot-com bubble. Valuations matter because paying a higher price today means, all else equal, a lower return in the future. For investors, this has two implications. First, it’s important to construct portfolios by balancing stocks with other asset classes such as bonds and international investments. Second, with stock market indices at historically expensive levels, it’s critical to focus on more attractive parts of the markets. For example, while artificial intelligence stocks have driven market returns over the past two years, many other parts of the market have performed well recently. Year to date, all eleven sectors have generated positive gains. Given that it is difficult to predict which sectors may outperform each year, having an appropriate allocation to many parts of the market can help to stabilize portfolios. This is one reason why we as a firm have been optimistic about something like the Vaneck Wide MOAT ETF (MOAT) . Here, the fund is looking towards the future by allocating capital towards companies with sustainable competitive advantages (the Moat) while quantifying if those advantages will last 20 years or more (the Wide). Additionally, they run screens around their valuations to try and allocate capital to those companies with wide moats, yet their future growth through those moats is not priced in completely. While not perfect, this has balanced the top heavy-weighted S&P 500, while delivering long-term Alpha through quality stock selection and low cost. Everyone can do math, so identifying high valuations in and of themselves is not an advantage. However, companies with sustainable competitive advantages with a sensible valuation may be advantageous. 3. The Fed is expected to cut rates further The Fed began to cut policy rates in September after months of investor speculation. So far, the Fed has lowered rates by one full percentage point, and according to our Summit Puri's last video, the markets are currently expecting one or two more additional cuts by the end of 2025. This is less than what we thought about one short month ago, hence the somewhat orderly repricing we saw in the markets last week. The timing and magnitude of these rate cuts remain uncertain and will depend on the economic data. Regardless, the monetary policy headwinds that began in 2022 are now turning into tailwinds. Just as higher rates slowed economic growth and led to investor concerns, lower rates can help to stimulate the economy, supporting both corporate earnings and possibly stock market returns in the long run. After a few challenging years, the easing of monetary policy may also be positive for bonds as inflation and economic growth potentially enter a more stable period. If short-term rates trend lower and longer-term rates remain steady, the prices of many bonds could benefit while still offering attractive yields. This environment may present opportunities for diversified investors to generate both income and growth. For investors, what matters is not trying to guess each move by the Fed, but the overall path of rates. With greater clarity and guidance around Fed policy, the market’s attention may shift back to specific policies by the incoming Trump administration. 4. Political focus will shift from the election to policy Presidential politics also clouded markets leading up to election day in November. Since then, the stock market has rallied due to the lifting of policy uncertainty, and the hopes that the incoming administration will create a pro-growth environment. While politics are important in our personal lives, the reality is that the economy and stock market have performed well across both Democratic and Republican presidencies over the past century. When it comes to investing, business cycles matter more than who occupies the White House, and they are driven by many factors beyond politics. In 2025, investors should put politics aside as they construct their portfolios and financial plans. Taxes , for instance, are clearer after the election since it is likely that most provisions of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act will be extended. This affects individual income tax rates, corporate tax rates, estate taxes, and much more. As is always the case, working with a trusted advisor is the best way to ensure that your financial strategy considers tax implications and changing market conditions. This does not mean that politics will be out of the spotlight in the coming months. Issues such as trade wars and the budget deficit will continue to worry investors. On trade, the new administration is expected to raise tariffs across many trading partners, especially China. However, it’s important to remember that the worst-case predictions during the first Trump administration never materialized, and many tariffs were continued during the Biden administration. When it comes to debt ceilings and the growing federal deficit, there are no simple solutions. The national debt has grown to $36 trillion with no signs of slowing. Without a sustainable path, interest payments on the federal debt will continue to rise, credit rating agencies may continue to question the quality of U.S. debt, and the role of the U.S. dollar as the world’s reserve currency could become uncertain. Without minimizing the severity of this topic, it’s important to recognize that we are not at a tipping point just yet, and markets have historically performed well regardless of the level of the deficit and national debt. 5. Long-term thinking will be key to success in 2025 and beyond Perhaps the most important lesson of 2024 is that markets can perform well despite investors’ worst fears. For example, market pullbacks in April and August this year may have led some investors astray despite positive gains throughout the year. Markets have shown remarkable resilience over the past twelve months, supported by economic growth, innovation, and positive trends across many asset classes. It’s important to celebrate these positive outcomes while also remaining vigilant and focused on the long term. The accompanying chart shows the value of a long-term perspective. History reveals that true wealth is created not over months but over years and decades. Even for those already in retirement, a longer-term perspective allows investors to put short-term events in context and make productive decisions. The bottom line? As the year comes to a close, we can celebrate a strong year for markets. In 2025, investors should focus on finding balance in their portfolios. This means making sure your stocks have the recommended growth, growth & income, aggressive growth and international allocation we typically recommend. If you're close to your goals or retirement, make sure you have placed non-correlated assets such as real estate, bonds and cash into your portfolio mix and talk to a qualified financial advisor . History shows that this is the best way to manage unforeseen events, while staying on track to achieve long-term financial goals.

The repeal of the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and the Government Pension Offset (GPO) marks a significant milestone in the fight for Social Security fairness. For decades, these provisions have reduced Social Security benefits for millions of public servants, including teachers, police officers, and firefighters, who also earned pensions from government jobs not covered by Social Security. Their elimination signals a step toward equity and economic security for retirees.   The WEP, enacted in 1983, aimed to prevent "double-dipping" by individuals who worked in jobs that did not pay into Social Security while also earning substantial benefits from Social Security-covered employment. However, its formula disproportionately reduced benefits for low- and middle-income retirees, penalizing workers who spent part of their careers in public service.   Similarly, the GPO , established in 1977, reduced Social Security spousal or survivor benefits by two-thirds of the recipient's public pension. This offset disproportionately affected women, many of whom relied on spousal benefits to supplement their retirement income. In some cases, the GPO entirely eliminated these benefits, leaving retirees with limited financial resources.   The repeal of these provisions addresses longstanding concerns about fairness and economic disparity. Advocates for the repeal, including unions and retiree organizations, argued that WEP and GPO unfairly penalized public servants who contributed to their communities and earned their benefits.   The change comes as part of broader efforts to modernize Social Security and ensure it remains a robust safety net for all workers. By repealing WEP and GPO, lawmakers have restored fairness and financial stability to millions of retirees and their families.   As the repeal takes effect, retirees impacted by WEP and GPO will see a meaningful increase in their benefits. This will help secure a more dignified retirement for those who dedicated their lives to serving the public. As of this article's writing, the Bill still needs to be signed by President Biden. Additionally, the Heritage Foundation, a conservative think tank, has estimated that this bill will cost Social Security $196 billion over a decade, and the Congressional Budget Office thinks it will speed up Social Security's insolvency by six months . As Dave Ramsey says, Social Security is the cherry on top of your retirement sundae. Thus, one should always strive to pay off all their debt, using the debt snowball (Baby Step 2), create a source of margin so they don't go back into debt (Baby Step 3 - Emergency Fund), and then save 15% of their income towards company-sponsored retirement plans, like your 401(k) and if eligible a Roth IRA. Our Financial Advisors are always ready to help you take that next step toward retirement security.

The Homestead Tax Exemption is a legal benefit available in most states, which reduces property tax reduction on homeowners’ primary residence and protection from creditors following the death of a spouse or declaration of bankruptcy. The exemption can only be applied to your primary residence, and while some states offer it to every homeowner, others have specific requirements that must be met, which vary from state to state. Some of these are the value of your home, income level, age, whether or not you are a veteran, or if the individual has a disability. In some states, the exemption is automatically applied, while in others, you must apply. In this article, we will look at the benefits of the exemption, the qualifying criteria, and how to apply for it. Benefits There are two benefits for the Homestead Tax Exception that we will dive into each individually and give an example of how the exemption benefits you.   Property Tax Reduction The main benefit of the Homestead Exemption is reducing the property taxes owed on the homeowner's primary residence. For example, if your home is valued at $200,000 and your state’s property taxes are based on your home’s assessed value with an assessment ratio of 35%, your home's assessed value would be $70,000. With a 1.5% tax rate, you would pay $1,050 in property taxes. In this example, we will say you are eligible for a $50,000 deduction. After applying for the Homestead Exemption, your home's assessed value would now be $52,500 ($150,000 x 35%). With the same 1.5% tax rate, your property taxes would now be reduced to $787.50. That is a $262.50 yearly savings. Protection from Creditors Another benefit of the Homestead Exemption is protection from unsecured creditors. This only applies to the equity in your home, not the home's assessed value. There is also a limit to how much equity you can have in your home, typically around $40,000 in most states. Requirements Example As mentioned, eligibility requirements vary from state to state. In Ohio, applicants must be at least 65 years old on January 1st in the year they are applying or be permanently disabled, in which case age would not be a factor. There is also a limit on total household income. For 2024, the limit is $40,500, including all sources such as wages, pensions, and social security.   How to Apply The form to apply is called the “Homestead Exemption Application (Form DTE 105A)”. Most counties will have a downloadable application on the county auditor’s website, or you can pick up a physical form from their office. In addition to your basic information, you will need to provide all of the following that apply to you: Proof of age  (e.g., a birth certificate or driver’s license) Proof of disability  (e.g., a statement from a medical professional if applying based on disability) Income verification  (e.g., tax returns, W-2s, Social Security statements) Veterans’ documentation  (e.g., VA disability certification) Once completed, you can submit the form to your county auditor’s office in person or online (if they allow it). After submitting, you will also want to check if you must reapply each year or if they automatically apply it once accepted.   Conclusion If you are unsure or think you may qualify for the Homestead Exemption, contact your financial advisor to start the conversation. If you do not have a financial advisor, we have a team at Whitaker-Myers Wealth Managers  with the heart of a teacher who can help explain how this could benefit you. Along with a CPA on staff , you have a team to answer any of your questions and help you apply if you qualify.

The new year can fill you with a sense of hope and expectation.  There are new goals to reach and new challenges to tackle.  Something that may be on your mind is finally taking control of your finances and making meaningful advances.  Perhaps you’ve faced a financial challenge, or maybe you’ve never been able to get to a place where you feel like you’re progressing.    Through my years of working in the financial industry, I have found four basic steps you can take right now to give yourself clarity and confidence in your future.   Take stock: Get a Financial Snapshot Find out where you are today by calculating your net worth.  This may sound more complicated than it is. Start by writing a list of the things that you own: house, car, bank accounts, investment accounts, etc., with price amounts.  Next, list out what you owe: mortgage, car loan, student loan, credit cards, and so forth, along with the amount you still owe on these items.  Add up your assets (what you own), subtract your liabilities (what you owe), and viola: you have your net worth.    *Financial Planner Tip* Write this number down and repeat this exercise every New Year to see your progress from year to year.   Perform general maintenance: Review your contributions and beneficiaries A quick tip to increase your retirement: see if you can take some of your last raise and bump up your 401(k) contributions. Or see if the annual limit for your ROTH IRA has increased since last year , and make sure you’re adding more if you can.    Also, look at each of your accounts to ensure your beneficiaries are updated.  Would you want your retirement account unintentionally going to an ex-spouse?  Or for one of your kids to be forgotten as a life insurance  beneficiary?    Avoid bumps in the road Sometimes, we can get so focused on progressing with our finances that we don’t consider what would happen if we faced an unforeseen difficulty. Two areas that are often uncomfortable to think about but are crucial in financial planning for your family are Long-Term Disability Insurance and Life Insurance.   Long-term disability insurance  can be life-altering to your family if you cannot work for an extended period of time.  And, of course, you need to consider how you would leave your loved ones if you passed away.  When calculating how much life insurance you need, consider what it would take to replace your income, pay off debts, and accomplish goals like saving for college for your current children.   Develop a financial plan Most importantly, update your financial plan on a consistent basis.  Your plan is a comprehensive compilation and projection of your finances.  It can show you potential shortfalls and help you make minor adjustments now to reach your goals.  Your plan can also give you confidence and peace that you’re heading in the right direction.    Financial advisors at Whitaker-Myers Wealth Managers are experienced and skilled at creating comprehensive financial plans while keeping your financial goals in mind.  We’d be honored to help bring financial peace to you in 2025.   To learn more about these types of topics or industry information, subscribe to the Whitaker-Myers Wealth Managers channel on YouTube  and visit our blog page , where our team members write weekly articles to help educate you and feel confident in your financial journey.

For many individuals with investments in the market and other securities, the state of the economy is critically important. But what economic data matters most? Where can I find it? What are the most credible sources? How often is the data released? Don’t worry; one of my goals in today’s article is to help you answer these questions!   The Conference Board’s LEI The Conference Board is a non-profit organization that provides trusted insights and economic data to help businesses and investors make informed decisions. They release the “Conference Board’s Leading Economic Index (LEI)” monthly, typically around the third week of the month.   The Conference Board’s LEI predicts future economic activity by combining ten key indicators. A rising LEI suggests economic growth, while a falling LEI signals potential downturns. The LEI factors average weekly hours (manufacturing), initial unemployment claims, new orders for consumer goods and nondefense capital goods (excluding aircraft), ISM® new orders, building permits, stock prices, the Leading Credit Index™, the interest rate spread, and average consumer expectations for business conditions.   You can find the summary and detailed reports of The Conference Board’s Leading Economic Index (LEI) on their LEI page. This page includes the latest press releases and comprehensive reports that provide insights into the economic outlook. By monitoring the Conference Board’s Leading Economic Index (LEI), investors can anticipate economic trends and adjust their strategies accordingly.   For example, when the LEI is up, it suggests economic growth, and investors might favor cyclical industries like consumer discretionary and technology, which tend to perform well during expansions. Conversely, when the LEI is down, indicating a potential downturn, investors might shift to defensive stocks like utilities and consumer staples , which are more resilient during economic contractions.   Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED) FRED is an online database from the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis that provides access to a vast array of economic data. FRED releases data at various frequencies, including daily, weekly, monthly, quarterly, and annually. You can find the release schedule and detailed information on FRED’s Economic Release Calendar.   FRED provides insights into interest rates, inflation, and employment, helping investors understand economic trends. For example, during periods of high unemployment and recessionary cycles, bonds generally perform better as investors seek safer investments , while stocks often perform worse due to reduced consumer spending and lower corporate earnings.   Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) The BLS is a U.S.  government agency that collects and shares data about the economy, including employment, inflation (CPI), and the  Producer Price Index (PPI). The Jobs Report, CPI, and PPI are all released monthly, with the Employment Report typically on the first Friday, the CPI around mid-month, and the PPI usually in the second week.   This data gives a snapshot of the job market, showing how many people are working or unemployed. It also tracks price changes for consumers (CPI) and businesses (PPI), which helps indicate inflation trends. Together, these data points give clues about the overall health of the economy.   By keeping an eye on the BLS data, the average investor can gauge the health of the job market and inflation trends. For example, if inflation is up, historical trends show that  stocks and bonds tend to perform worse , while  commodities and real estate often outperform . This information can help investors make more informed decisions about adjusting their portfolios to mitigate risks or capitalize on growth opportunities.   Putting it all together Staying current on the state of the economy can help us be prepared for whatever lies ahead. At Whitaker-Myers Wealth Managers , we understand not everyone has time to comb through dozens of pages of economic research. That is why our team of financial advisors  uses these tools to help you reach your financial goals. Reach out to one of our advisors today; by doing so, you can gain insight into expectations for the economy, build a financial plan, or make changes to an existing one!

What is Mean Reversion? Mean reversion is a financial concept that describes the tendency of a stock or index price to return to its average or "mean" value after deviating from it. This phenomenon is based on the idea that extreme price movements, whether upwards or downwards, are often temporary and unsustainable in the long run.   Think of your daily commute. Imagine if your average commute took one hour to complete. Depending on traffic, you may experience longer-than-average delays; on other days, when traffic is light, it may take you less than average. Over time, with enough samples, your commute tends to revert to the average of 60 minutes.   Stocks tend to do this as well. We see these deviations in individual securities/stocks as well as asset classes  or categories. Using technical analyses while tracking 30-day, 60-day, or 120-day moving averages, traders who employ mean reversion strategies can try to capitalize on these temporary price deviations. They believe that when a stock moves significantly away from its average, it presents an opportunity to profit from its eventual return to the mean.   Mean Reversion Strategies in Practice Mean reversion strategies are often implemented using technical indicators that help identify overbought or oversold conditions. These indicators include:   RSI (Relative Strength Index) The RSI is an oscillator that measures the magnitude of recent price changes to evaluate overbought or oversold conditions in the price of a stock or other asset. It fluctuates between 0 and 100. A high RSI value (typically above 70) suggests the asset is overbought, while a low RSI (typically below 30) indicates oversold conditions. Traders using mean reversion might buy when the RSI is low, anticipating a price rebound, or sell when the RSI is high, expecting a price correction.   Bollinger Bands Bollinger Bands consist of a moving average and two standard deviations plotted above and below the moving average. These bands widen during periods of high volatility and contract during periods of low volatility. A stock price moving outside of the Bollinger Bands can signal an overextended move, suggesting a potential mean reversion opportunity. Traders might sell when the price touches the upper band, expecting a pullback, or buy when it touches the lower band, anticipating a bounce.   Stochastics   Similar to RSI, the Stochastics oscillator is used to identify overbought and oversold conditions. It compares a stock's closing price to its price range over a given period. Traders might use the Stochastics oscillator in conjunction with other indicators to confirm mean reversion signals.   Consecutive Bars Another simple yet effective indicator is the number of consecutive up or down bars. This indicator helps identify extreme price moves in one direction, which might signal a potential reversal.   Internal Bar Strength (IBS) IBS measures where a stock's closing price falls within the day's price range. A high IBS indicates that the closing price is near the day's high, while a low IBS signifies a close near the day's low. This information can be used to identify potential overbought or oversold conditions.   Challenges and Considerations While mean reversion strategies can be profitable, they also carry certain risks and limitations. Starting from: Identifying the mean Determining the appropriate "mean" for a particular stock or index can be challenging. Different timeframes and calculation methods can yield varying results. Trend Days Mean reversion strategies tend to be less effective on trend days, where the market exhibits a strong directional bias. On such days, the price might continue to move in one direction, defying mean reversion expectations. Stop-Loss Orders Implementing stop-loss orders is crucial to manage risk in mean reversion trading. These orders automatically sell a position if the price moves against the trader's expectations, limiting potential losses. Psychological Factors Mean reversion trading can be psychologically demanding. It often requires buying when the market is falling or selling when the market is rising, which goes against the common instinct to follow the trend.   Conclusion Overall, mean reversion is a valuable concept that can be incorporated into trading strategies. However, it's essential to understand its limitations and use appropriate risk management techniques. Combining mean reversion indicators with other technical analysis tools and a sound understanding of market dynamics can help make more informed decisions. Keep in mind that I do not recommend these strategies to the majority of investors. Most of us are long-term investors intending to play the long game to succeed and meet our financial goals. My intent in sharing these strategies is simply to educate part of the investment world.     If you need any assistance on your financial journey, walking through Dave Ramsey’s Seven Baby Steps , or need a deep dive into your financial/investment plan, reach out to a member of our financial advisor team . They are always ready to help with the heart of a teacher to help educate and create a plan to help you reach your financial goals.

Who remembers their senior year of high school? You’ve completed at least 12 years of school already, perhaps even more with pre-school, and at this point in your life you feel like you’ve learned everything you need to know and you’re just ready to be done. Problem is you have one more year and taking it too easy in that last year, could create hardship in the not-too-distant future. In the same way, many retirees, as they enter their final working years feel those same, “just get me outta here” emotions they felt all those years ago in high school, yet decisions made right before retirement can have some big impacts. Let’s consider that as a general rule, most individuals have a gradual rising income over their working career. Even young high-income earners can expect that high income to continue to grow into the future. What we’re often faced with a few years before retirement is some of the best income you’ll personally ever see, which allows for some great “catch up” strategies like ensuring all your debts are paid off, including your home, making sure your emergency fund is stacked as strong as you’ve ever had it and putting the final touches (including catch up) on your retirement savings. The purpose of this article is to dive into the realties of how to deal with a retirees retirement savings right before retirement. To be clear, every situation is unique and your specific situation should be discussed with your financial advisor . Your financial advisor is part of your team, which includes your tax and estate planning professionals that should guide you through retirement and a good advisor, according to Vanguard’s Advisor Alpha Study , can add as much as 3% to their clients return through asset allocation, rebalancing, behavioral coaching, asset location, spending strategy (withdrawal order) and other factors. So, let’s dig into the question of how someone should allocate their retirement savings right before retirement – Roth or Pre-Tax? Delay Your Roth Contributions We know the team at Ramsey Solutions tells us that the Roth IRA or Roth 401(k) is the right way to go and we whole heartly believe that, however for some pre-retirees the decision to do a delayed Roth IRA may be more beneficial. What we mean by a delayed Roth IRA is making contributions right before retirement into pre-tax retirement accounts, as opposed to your Roth IRA or Roth 401(k). The reason for this is tax savings, relative to your cost to convert the monies right after retirement. Let’s take a look at an example. In 2022, a married couple, filing jointly, can earn up to $83,550 while paying 10% and 12% in federal taxes. With their standard deduction in 2022 of $25,900 that could increase their potential income in the above mentioned brackets, to $109,450. Then your rates jump to 22% and go as high as 37%. All things considered keeping your income in the 10% and 12% brackets is a pretty nice strategy. So, let’s assume our client, SAMPLE CLIENT A , who is age 63 and will retire at age 65, is earning $120,000 between himself and his wife. That means that he should be contributing $18,000 towards retirement ( Baby Step 4 – 15% of income into retirement ). If they would contribute everything to a Roth IRA / Roth 401(k) then they’d have a piece of their income ($10,500) that would fall into the 22% bracket therefore costing them $2,321 in federal taxes on that piece of their wages. However, if they allocated, that $10,550 into their pre-tax accounts and left the balance of their savings in Roth buckets they would have avoided the 22% bracket altogether. Fast forward two years when SAMPLE CLIENT A retires and let’s assume they would like $70,000 worth of income in retirement. Their income is broken down as follows: $30,000 – Social Security – Only 85% of this income is taxable so only $25,500 hits their return $40,000 – Income from Retirement Accounts (assuming non-Roth assets here) Therefore, their taxable income is $65,500. That means, under 2022 tax laws, they would have $43,950 left in the 12% federal income bracket. Let’s go back to the $10,550 they allocated to their pre-tax account at age 63, if grew at an 8% rate it is now worth $12,373. If we did a Roth Conversion of this money, meaning taking it from the pre-tax account and moving it to the Roth IRA, now that they are retired and their income is lower, we would have to pay $1,484 in federal income taxes. Keep in mind, at age 63 we saved $2,321 in taxes by contributing the $10,550 to the pre-tax side, to keep ourselves under the 12% bracket. Thus approx. tax savings for this person was $837. If they had a higher income, presumably you’d contribute more to the pre-tax side, creating an even larger savings. This strategy won’t be right for everyone, however those that are above the 12% federal bracket ($109,450 income in 2022 with the standard deduction) and that will dip below it when entering retirement, should be able to see tax savings by executing this strategy. Of course, we always recommend you consult your financial advisor team and your tax ELP team to get specific advice to your unique circumstances.

Invest in what you know or invest with someone you trust with the heart of a teacher. That's the way I've heard Dave Ramsey describe your investment strategy. We make better decisions when we understand those decisions better. That's why I don't try and repair my plumbing. It would be an awful decision to try and attempt that because I'm not an expert, nor do I want to learn that, considering my busy work, family, and church schedule. Thus, I outsource, and before I buy, I want to learn what will happen, when and how much it will cost. Typically, within your 401(k), it's hard to outsource and hire an expert because the plan is held in a pre-determined place, with a pre-determined investment lineup (which is typically not bad), that I must self-direct myself. Thanks to Fidelity's BrokerageLink® and Whitaker-Myers Wealth Manager's new custodial relationship with Fidelity, certain employees may now be able to get the expertise they desire when utilizing their company's retirement plan. If you’re an employee of The Cleveland Clinic , you likely have access to a robust retirement savings plan through Fidelity Investments. One compelling feature of this plan is the Fidelity BrokerageLink® option, which allows you to take more control over your retirement investments. With guidance from Whitaker-Myers Wealth Managers , you can unlock the full potential of this feature and align it with your long-term financial goals. What is Fidelity's BrokerageLink®? Fidelity's BrokerageLink® is an investment option within certain Fidelity retirement plans that gives participants access to a wider range of investment choices beyond the standard, pre-selected plan options. While traditional plans typically offer a limited menu of mutual funds or target-date funds, BrokerageLink® opens up a world of investment opportunities, including: Individual stocks Exchange-traded funds (ETFs) Thousands of mutual funds Other advanced investment options This flexibility empowers investors to tailor their portfolio to better suit their individual risk tolerance, retirement timeline, and specific financial objectives. How Cleveland Clinic Employees Can Benefit For employees of The Cleveland Clinic, utilizing the BrokerageLink® feature with the expertise of Whitaker-Myers Wealth Managers can offer several key advantages: 1. Enhanced Diversification Standard retirement plans often provide a “one-size-fits-all” selection of funds. Many times, if you're unable or unwilling to select the investments they default you into a Target Date Fund (a fund with the year on the end of it). By leveraging BrokerageLink®, you can diversify your portfolio with asset classes and funds that aren’t included in the standard plan. This broader access can help reduce risk while potentially enhancing returns over the long term. 2. Personalized Investment Strategy Everyone’s financial situation is unique, and your investment strategy should reflect that. Through BrokerageLink®, Whitaker-Myers Wealth Managers can work with you to craft a highly personalized portfolio, balancing growth potential with appropriate levels of risk to meet your specific retirement goals. 3. Professional Guidance While BrokerageLink® provides greater flexibility, it also requires more hands-on management. That’s where we come in. Our Smartvestor Pro financial advisor team can help you navigate the expanded investment universe, selecting options that align with your goals, preferences, and overall financial plan. 4. Cost Efficiency Many mutual funds available through BrokerageLink® may have lower expense ratios than the default options in your plan. Lowering your investment costs over time can significantly impact the growth of your retirement savings. 5. Opportunities for Growth For those who are financially savvy or working with a professional advisor, BrokerageLink® can offer access to investment options with higher growth potential. With our guidance, you can explore these opportunities while maintaining a disciplined and strategic approach. Why Work with Whitaker-Myers Wealth Managers? Whitaker-Myers Wealth Managers has extensive experience in helping clients optimize their retirement savings. For Cleveland Clinic employees, this includes providing tailored advice on how to use features like BrokerageLink® to their advantage. Our advisors can: Help you set up and manage your BrokerageLink® account. Develop a customized investment strategy aligned with your goals. Monitor your portfolio to ensure it remains balanced and on track. Provide ongoing support and adjustments as market conditions and your needs change. Tim Hilterman, CFP®, Chief Financial Planning Officer at Whitaker-Myers Wealth Managers, highlights the importance of a personalized approach: "A more customized investment strategy ensures that every dollar you invest is working toward the financial goals we’ve helped you define. By integrating your BrokerageLink® options with the comprehensive financial plan our team has put together for you, we can maximize the potential for growth while keeping you aligned with your long-term vision." Is BrokerageLink® Right for You? While BrokerageLink® offers tremendous potential, it’s not for everyone. It requires a deeper understanding of investment principles and a willingness to actively manage your portfolio—or the guidance of a trusted advisor. Before making any decisions, it’s important to consult with a professional to determine whether this option fits your financial plan. Start Planning Today If you’re a Cleveland Clinic employee interested in exploring how BrokerageLink® can enhance your retirement savings plan, Whitaker-Myers Wealth Managers is here to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and discover how we can empower you to take charge of your financial future. If you’d like to start your financial plan today, you can follow this link .

The State Teachers Retirement System of Ohio (STRS) has announced significant, yet temporary, changes to retirement eligibility that may impact your financial planning. From June 1, 2025, through July 31, 2027, educators can qualify for full retirement benefits with 33 years of service, reduced from the current 34-year requirement. Additionally, eligibility for reduced retirement benefits will be available after 28 years of service, down from 29 years. These adjustments are designed to provide greater flexibility for educators contemplating retirement during this timeframe. However, it’s important to understand that these changes are temporary; after July 31, 2027, the eligibility criteria will revert to the previous standards. The STRS Board plans to review these provisions in spring 2025 to determine if further adjustments are necessary. credit: strsoh.org Given the temporary nature of these changes, planning is key. Tim Hilterman, Chief Financial Planning Officer at Whitaker-Myers Wealth Managers , emphasizes the importance of strategic retirement preparation: "With these temporary changes, Ohio teachers face a unique opportunity—and challenge. It’s critical to sit down with a qualified financial planner and their team to ensure your retirement goals align with these revised criteria. Proper planning can help you maximize your benefits and avoid surprises as these adjustments expire in 2027." As retirement timelines may shift under these new rules, understanding how they fit into your overall financial strategy is essential. We recommend reaching out to your financial advisor to assess the impact on your retirement plan and ensure you stay on track for a comfortable future. You can also read a little about the STRS Defined Contribution Plan, written by President of Whitaker-Myers Wealth Managers, John-Mark Young . In this article, he discusses the plan within STRS, where a teacher would be treated more like a 401(k) employee than a pension or defined contribution plan employee. This must be elected early in your career, so talk to a Whitaker-Myers Financial Advisor to see if you might qualify for this plan if you are interested. You can read that article here . For more detailed information about these changes, refer to the official STRS Ohio announcement, which can be read by clicking here .