The Financial Lab

We've talked before about the 60/40 portfolio (60% stock, 40% bonds) and how horrible it performed last year.  Both stocks and bonds took a big hit.  Hear if David and Travis agree and if their is another portfolio allocation they prefer.   Protect, grow, and Reduce Taxes on your Wealth!    

There's a major tax event coming in 2026.  And that's the expiration of the so-called ‘Trump tax cuts' (the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act passed in 2017).  What do people need to understand about this when it comes to tax planning and what should they consider for the next few years?

Want to talk about risk? Risk is also a part of retirement planning.  But, how can you be a part of the "risk" and also protect and grow your money? David and Travis explain in todays episode!  

A new poll (by Retirable) shows many Americans are hoping for the best when it comes to having enough money for retirement.  It found 64% of retirees do not feel like they've saved enough to get them through, and more than half expect to take on a part-time job to make ends meet.  David and Travis discuss their planning process to eliminate the fear of running out of money in retirement. Call David and Travis today for your custom Financial Lab. This lab is designed to show you how you can protect and grow your income giving you a stress free retirement! 

Did you know that if you go to a casino, you can get a sheet listing the odds of winning for each game?  So, when it comes to assessing the probabilities of achieving retirement goals, what tools do you have at your disposal? Then, baseball Hall of Famer Ken Griffey, Junior hasn't suited up for the Cincinnati Reds since 2008.  Yet in 2023, he's the third-highest paid player on the Reds payroll.  Why?  Because Griffey elected to defer his salary and will make more than three and a half million dollars this year!  In retirement, isn't an annuity a good way to defer income? Find out if an annuity is a fit for YOU and YOUR custom income plan for retirement - call today for your custom Financial Lab! 

Do you have an income plan as part of your retirement picture?  Financial advisor Angela Sloan tells TD Ameritrade not to confuse it with the stock market. David and Travis explain the importance of creating the different streams of income and how annuities can be a vital part of your success in retirement!  Call David and Travis today for your customize Financial Lab designing your financial plan! 

Did you know that the order in which you eat your food might impact your health?   While we consume that thought, this reminds me of something we've talked about before – withdrawals from a retirement plan.  Is there a certain order of funds that you recommend they pull money from?    Call Shepherd Wealth Solutions today and create your custom income plan with the Financial Lab!  

The cost of Long-Term Care can be $10,000 a month or more.  No wonder so many say it's one of the huge “gotcha” expenses in retirement.  And now, a dozen states are considering implementing a mandatory tax on people who don't carry long-term care insurance.  Is buying this the best answer to covering those costs?  Call today for your Financial Lab! 

You will likely enter retirement having saved in a number of different places.  An article in Smart Asset says if you want to be smart with taxes you should pull the money out in this order:  Tax-deferred accounts (IRAs and 401ks), then taxable accounts, then Roth accounts.  David and Travis explain how they take this approach and help YOU be tax efficient in retirement!  Call today for your Complimentary Tax Lab! 

Are we already in a recession?  The CEO of BlackRock Financial says “no,” but it's just a matter of time.  Larry Fink tells Fox Business that he bases his prediction on the housing market starting to collapse, car sales falling and more people borrowing from their retirement plans.  What do you think?  Hear David and Travis talk about the benefits you could have after putting together a customized Financial Lab so you are prepared for a recession, high inflation, tax changes and more!   Call today for your customized Financial Lab! 

The guy who invented the concept of the “4% percent” rule thinks it's too early to cut the withdrawal rate to 3% because of today's volatile markets.   Bill Bengen feels it would take a “catastrophic” set of circumstances before people reduce their withdrawal rate. David and Travis share their message about how much to take from retirement accounts during this economy, and how to protect and grow your money the right way! Call today for your customized Financial Lab!  

President Biden says the economy is "strong as hell" and inflation is worldwide and we have it better in the USA then the rest of the world. Inflation is very much still top of mind for many, and of course we have seen ALOT of market volatility, hear how Travis and Shepherd Wealth Solutions helps people preserve, protect and grow their income in retirement!   Call Shepherd Wealth Solutions for your Financial Lab! 

How diversified should a portfolio be in these volatile times?  One study found that most believe it takes only 30 holdings to be diversified.  But one chief investment officer recently said it should be more like 200 stocks!  So, what's a diversified portfolio look like to you and your clients?   

While many Hollywood stars are richer than most of us, there's one way they're the same – they have mortgages.  Theirs is just much bigger.  For example, even though Beyonce and her husband Jay Z are worth $1.8 billion, they still took out a $53 million loan for their Bel Air mansion.  That's a monthly payment of $227 grand!  Now, some approaching retirement may want to pay off their mortgage beforehand.  When is that a smart thing to do?  

What are the chances we could fall into recession in the next year?  Economists with Bloomberg say it's 100% certain.  And it might hit sooner than later.  Hear how David and Travis can help you survive and thrive in an uncertain economy! 

Even the rich can get bad advice. Listen to what happened to media mogul Tyler Perry when his accountants steered him through an IRS audit that proved a HUGE mistake.  What would you do with a financial advisor if they made a serious mistake in someone's retirement plan?  

We've talked before about the tax advantages of converting your 401(k) money over to a Roth. One article says those best suited for a conversion are:  Retired. Years away from the RMD age of 72. Married couples with a large age gap. Those not yet taking Social Security. Why are these factors an advantage?

Actor/Comedian Bill Murray joins the show and says being a famous Hollywood celebrity says saving for retirement is only half of the equation. The other half is deciding how you want to spend your time.  David and Travis describe their process when working with people just like you get to and through retirement while checking off items on your bucket list!  

Fidelity says the number of people who have 1 million dollars in their 401(k) accounts is down almost 30%.  People who have a million dollars are probably close to retirement, so this brings up the topic of risk management.  David and Travis explain how they help their clients “de-risk” their 401(k) so they aren't just going up and down with the stock market. Plus, Americans are trying to stretch their dollars amid high inflation, but they might be overlooking money they already have – gift cards! Check your wallets!  A new survey (by CreditCards.com) found the average person has $175 in unused gift cards.  And if you don't remember to cash them in, you're leaving money on the table.  When it comes to retirement planning, what are some of the ways to prevent leaving money on the table?  Call David and Travis today for your Financial Lab!     

The stock market is trying to continue its rally.  And prices – especially gas – have been coming down.  But economist Nancy Lazar tells Fox Business that we're not out of the woods yet, she believes future interest rate hikes by the Fed to fight inflation will push us that way.  Hear David and Travis explain how their Financial Lab can help you develop a plan that can help both protect and grow your income - recession or not!  

What's your personal financial fear?  Maybe you can relate to comedian Kevin Hart! He says his fear is his credit card being declined in public! Credit cards and runaway debt are one thing, but one survey (by Zety) says by far, the number one fear Americans have about retirement is running out of money.  David and Travis explain how using their Financial Lab to create a sturdy income plan, protected from the market, inflation and giving you INCOME FOR LIFE! Call today for your customized Financial Lab! 

You've heard the saying, “the devils in the details” and that certainly applies to a financial plan before you retire. Hear how David and Travis can help you with this budgeting process, so it doesn't become overwhelming with a customized Financial Lab. Then, former Vice President Mike Pence joins the show and shared his philosophy on life after leaving the workforce, listen to see if you agree!  Call today for your customized Financial Lab! 

Inflation is up, the Fed is getting aggressive with interest rate hikes and the stock market is showing more volatility.  David and Travis give some examples of how they can help you protect your capital, and take advantage of opportunities during this inflation and volatility atmosphere.   Get a customized Financial Lab today!  

We're in a bear market because it's down over 20%.  But how long will it last?  An article in the Wall Street Journal contends that despite the best attempts at predictions, nobody knows when or how it will end.  So, the best thing to do is stop trying to predict the unpredictable and work on controlling the controllable.  David and Travis share what you CAN control during these volatile times. Call today for your customized Financial Lab!  

The biggest fear of planning retirement is running out of money. Good news is, David and Travis have financial tools and strategies that give you income for life!  Call today for your Financial Lab! 

We've talked before about retirement planning myths, so let's shift gears a little – what are some of the popular misconceptions about estate planning?  

We often talk about “bucket lists” in retirement – usually fun things we want to ‘check off' once we leave the workforce.  But have you heard about an “anti-bucket list?”  It includes things a person never wants to experience or doesn't want to repeat.  Some examples: Go through a divorce. Wait until the right time to travel. Spending time in constant worry.   So, let's apply this to retirement planning.  What are some of things that should be on that anti-bucket list?  Create your bucket list AND your Financial Lab today! 

Should you delay a divorce to increase your Social Security check?  David and Travis share their SS claiming strategies and more!  Call today for your Financial Lab!  

Since 2016, retirement plan sponsors have not been allowed to include annuities as a component of a 401(k).  But a new bill in Congress would change that.  The Lifetime Income for Employees Act would pave the way to make annuities a default investment for as much as 50% of plan balances.  Is this a good idea for those who didn't necessarily make their own investment selections? David and Travis tackle this topic and how you can get ahead of inflation! 

David and Travis weigh in on the seven financial spring-cleaning tips to tidy up money matters and more!  Plus, Travis talks about tax information for small business ERC credit that changed in Nov of 2021! Call David and Travis today for a Portfolio Review! 

What do Jason Aldean and Shepherds Wealth Solutions have in common? Then, taxes are still relatively low, but that can change at any time.  An article in U.S. News & World Report says that makes this an opportune time to consider converting a traditional individual retirement account into a Roth IRA.  But this might not be right for everyone.  The guys explain what instances could make this a good move or maybe not!  Call today for your Financial Lab!  

Inflation is giving way to something called “shrinkflation.”  Companies are trying to fight higher prices by cutting corners with their products.  For instance, Doritos bags will now contain five fewer chips.  Crest is putting less toothpaste in its tubes.  And Charmin is cutting 20 sheets from its two-ply rolls of toilet paper. David and Travis discuss how they can help you prepare for inflation  while not running out of money!   Call David and Travis today for your Financial Lab! 

In 1994,the 4% rule was created. The idea was with a 50/50 mix of stocks and bonds, you could pull 4% out to live on and not run out of money over a 30-year retirement.  You can still find that rule on the internet today.  But does it take into account today's huge inflation rate, or should we just throw out the concept altogether? David and Travis weigh in on the 4% rule and their planning process!  Call today for your Complimentary Financial Lab!

David and Travis discuss ways you can "spring clean" your finances! Then, what can bring you to tears as an adult? TAXES! Hear David and Travis discuss their approach to tidying up your finances and keeping as much money in your pocket instead of in Uncle Sam's wallet both now and in retirement!  Call today for your Complimentary Tax Lab!

Have you ever argued over the thermostat – lost that fight – and then secretly changed it to the temperature you wanted anyway?  Sixty percent of people in a new poll said they've done that before.  And more than half said being comfortable is more important to them than saving money, even if it means ignoring the wishes of others.  Are you the one that wants to be comfortable or save more money? David and Travis discuss a Business Insider article about the four common money tips financial planners always tell their clients to ignore. 

Even though Congress stripped the parts of President Biden's “Build Back Better” bill that dealt with retirement plans, lawmakers are working on another piece of legislation.  “Securing A Strong Retirement Act” is designed to encourage and simplify retirement savings.  It would make some major shifts impacting workers with longer life expectancies.  Hear David and Travis discuss six ways this law would change the rules for retirement accounts and how they can help you stay ahead of any potential changes.   

We all know that 401(k)'s are among the most popular retirement accounts.  But a survey by TDAmeritrade found that only 27% know how much they're paying in fees.  The smaller the plan, the larger the fees, which can exceed 2%.  That can cost you tens of thousands of dollars over time.  Hear how Steve helps people just like you mitigate fees, and understand the insides and outs of your 401(k). 

Extreme volatility in the stock market lately could mean a major selloff is just around the corner.  That's according to Morgan Creek Capital Management CEO Mark Yusko.  Hear David and Travis discuss how they can help you combat both inflation and volatility in retirement, and how their Financial Lab can show you the numbers in real time! 

The so-called “4% Rule” for annual retirement withdrawals has been around since the mid-1990s.  But Morningstar's Christine Benz believes that number has been misunderstood.  With inflation rearing its ugly head, Benz now feels the safe withdrawal rate should be 3.3%.  Should retirees who are taking out more panic?  How do you help them come up with the ideal number?

Travis talks about getting calls from listeners about "Have I saved enough money" and how he and David help clients just like you with these concerns.  The Federal Reserve will begin dialing back the extraordinary economic aid it's provided since the pandemic erupted last year.  It's a response to high inflation that now looks likely to persist longer than it did just a few months ago.   When it comes to retirement plans, what's the smart play at this point?

I read a story in Market Watch about a guy who worked at a bank for 38 years.  He helped people with their investments.  His wife is even a financial advisor.  Yet the name of the article is “I failed at retirement:  how to avoid my mistakes.”  How can David and Travis help you avoid these mistakes?  Just two years after leading LSU to a national college football title, head coach Ed Orgeron will leave his job at the end of the season.  The SEC school wants the program to go in a different direction.  But don't feel sorry for “Coach O.”  He's getting a $17 million buyout that will be paid in 18 installments.  So what's next? What are the savings options if a client's employer offers a buyout over time?  How can you calculate if it's enough to retire now?   

You've seen it at the gas pump, in the grocery store and even in some household bills - INFLATION! If you are currently retired, how can you keep up with these increased prices? Hear David and Travis explain how their Financial Lab can help design a customized plan to keep up with inflation and the unexpected cost of retirement.  

Republicans and Democrats have been going back-and-forth over President Biden's so-called “Build Back Better” plan … a $3-and-a-half trillion “wish list” of social spending programs.  But as economist Brian Wesbury points out to Fox Business, Uncle Sam doesn't have a very good track record when it comes to spending our tax dollars wisely. Okay, I'm sure we could talk all day about how “greedy” the government is.  But what we're really concerned about is how we can protect our life savings from that greedy government.  Where do we start?

How long has it been since you took a good, hard, look at the investments in your retirement account?  Morningstar's Christine Benz says you should do that at least once a year.  What you're looking for is gains or losses that change your allocation percentages. Hear David and Travis explain the importance of rebalancing your retirement account (s) and how their approach to retirement planning can help YOU retire with confidence! 

Dartmouth College professor David Blanchflower points to two major indices of consumer confidence that have dropped more or just as much as they did ahead of the 2008 crash.  He believes that the U.S. will firmly be in a recession at the end of this year.  That's scary.  What steps should be taken to safeguard the savings for those who are nearing or have just entered retirement?, Has the pandemic changed your retirement date? Asset Manager Penny Pennington spoke to Yahoo Finance and said for many, it has. Have many of your clients moved their retirement dates up?  What goes into that kind of planning? 

President Biden is pushing trillions of dollars in new spending … and his supporters in Congress are considering several different tax hikes to pay for it all.  One of them is a so-called “death tax” … that's a tax that your family has to pay whenever they inherit something from you.  Are we going to need to do some strategizing to protect our family assets from Uncle Sam?

In March of last year as the Covid scare was beginning, not long after that, President Trump shut down the economy and we had a 34% market decline.  Fast forward to today – “Rich Dad, Poor Dad” author Robert Kiyosaki is calling for the biggest crash the world has even seen.  He put this up on a web site that sells gold.  Are we positioned for the “mother of all pull backs”?  Could these voices bring on the beginnings of a market slide, or are they only trying to benefit their positions?  

There are also lots of potential tax changes on the horizon … with President Biden saying he wants to raise taxes on “the wealthy.”  But it seems like these types of changes could end up affecting all of us - how do we get in front of these possible changes … is there anything we can do? There's something that academic economists call the “annuity puzzle.”  It refers to why some people are reluctant to consider using an annuity as part of their overall retirement strategy.  Forbes magazine says it may be because people assume that “annuitizing” their money means there won't be anything left over to leave to their loved ones.  Is that true – is it an “either/or” choice, or could you possibly do both? 

Required Minimum Distributions are back this year.  If you're subject to them, you might want to start thinking about that.  But even if you're not there yet, Morningstar's Christine Benz says it might pay to start considering your options. David and Travis discuss their approach to RMD's using strategies to help reduce their tax obligations.    

September has historically been a weak month for the stock market, and this year was no different.  We've seen a little more volatility, over the past few weeks.  So, should we be concerned?    

The Senior Citizens League says if you'd retired in the year 2000 with a total income of $100,000, you'd now need $156,000 to be able to afford the same standard of living.  That's thanks to inflation, which – by the way – has been rising much faster than usual lately.  We'd like to think that we'll be able to replace our current income in retirement, but it appears we're losing ground.  What's the answer?