Financial Planning

Oil prices have been on a roller coaster in 2026, driven by geopolitical tensions, supply disruptions, and shrinking global reserves. In this article, Financial Advisor Jake Buckwalter breaks down what's causing the volatility, why it matters beyond the gas pump, and what investors should be watching in the months ahead.

Beginning in 2026, higher-income employees will face new rules for 401(k) catch-up contributions under SECURE Act 2.0. In this article, Associate Financial Advisor Mica Dauch explains who is affected, why the change was made, and what it means for your retirement savings strategy.

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."

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.