Is Bitcoin a Digital Currency or a Digital Tulip Bulb mania? Many investors are wondering if electronic money deserve a place in their portfolios. WHAT IS BITCOIN? Simply put, Bitcoin is a digital currency also called a “cryptocurrency.” It is a form of code made by computers and stored in a digital wallet. Transactions…
With an unexpectedly stellar year for investment markets behind us, what’s in store for the year ahead? Certified Financial Planner Paul Fain provides eight financial predictions for 2018. CAN THE U.S. ECONOMY STAY ON A ROLL? U.S. ECONOMY ↑: Will grow and remain near 2.5%. The U.S. economy has greater momentum than it has…
What a year 2017 was! After a lingering slump for worldwide economies and markets (2014 through late 2016), the past 12 months have been crazy, chaotic, and chart-topping in ways both good and bad. Hurricanes Harvey and Irma brought destruction. The Equifax cyber-hack created its own tidal wave of financial security concerns. A reality TV…
One of the greatest gifts you can give your children or grandchildren – all year long — is Financial Literacy, a basic understanding of money management. Certified Financial Planner Paul Fain explains some age appropriate ideas for you to share with your children in 2018. WHAT IS A GOOD AGE TO START TEACHING…
As Congress grapples with the most sweeping tax overhaul effort in decades, investors have many questions: How will this affect me? What should I do now? Well, we’ve got answers. WHAT SHOULD INVESTORS DO TO PREPARE FOR THE NEW TAX RULES? In general, investors should not make significant changes to their investments or financial…
The saying goes, “A goal not written down is merely a wish!” As you begin to ponder your goals for 2018, what are your plans for financial success? THE NEW YEAR WILL BE HERE BEFORE WE KNOW IT, WHAT ARE SOME DO’S AND DON’T FOR SETTING MONEY GOALS? Let’s start with the “DO’S:” Be…
A Message of Thankfulness from Paul Fain My college freshman son came home for the holiday weekend. As he packed his car to return to campus, I offered him some gas money. “No thanks, I’ll manage,” he responded. I shoved the twenty dollar bill back into my wallet in disbelief. I am thankful that…
Today is Giving Tuesday!! As we continue to have gratitude and give thanks, we also recognize the important work of giving back to our local and world community. As part of Giving Tuesday, we want to share the following resources that may help you determine where to contribute for your charitable giving. Taxpayers can…
Holiday Bonuses The holidays often bring lots of cheer, festivities—and those much anticipated year-end bonuses. What is the best way to spend your holiday bonus? HOW GENEROUS ARE BUSINESSES TO THEIR EMPLOYEES OVER THE HOLIDAYS? Accounting Principles surveyed 500 businesses and found that 75% of them will give out holiday bonuses this year. For…
How do you select a mutual fund to invest in? Well, for one thing, a recent article in the Wall Street Journal challenged the notion of relying on “star ratings” to make your picks. WHAT IS THIS HULLABALU ABOUT THE STAR RATINGS ON MUTUAL FUNDS? Morningstar research rates funds from 1-star (low) to 5-star…