Buffer ETFs (and other strategies) are gaining attention for their downside protection, but fixed income remains a time-tested way to manage equity volatility. Historical data shows bonds often perform well when stocks decline, making them a reliable hedge. Investors may want to reconsider those buffer ETF emails—and stick with proven diversification strategies.
Retirement is the perfect time to align your passions with purpose—whether it's reading to kids, helping at animal shelters, or sharing your skills in art, cooking, or business. Volunteering in areas you love can deepen your fulfillment, build community, and make a lasting impact. What will you organize your retirement around?
Donating appreciated assets like stocks or real estate to charity can maximize both philanthropic impact and tax benefits. This strategy allows donors to potentially claim a full fair market value deduction while avoiding capital gains taxes, especially when assets are gifted directly rather than sold first. Tools like donor-advised funds and timing strategies may further enhance the efficiency and flexibility of charitable giving.
Living the best life possible in retirement (or pre-retirement) requires maintaining a healthy brain. Moderate cardio and weight training along with continual learning and the right diet can help maintain a healthy brain. Reducing stress through a variety of means, including exercising, journaling, and demonstrating smart sleeping habits should also help you maximize a return on life by keeping your mind sharp.
The Federal Reserve is maintaining its federal funds rate at 4.25% to 4.50%, carefully balancing economic growth and inflation concerns. While Fed decisions impact interest rates and markets, their effects are influenced by many global factors, making precise predictions difficult. For investors, staying informed and focusing on a personalized financial plan is the best way to navigate these changes and manage savings, investments, and debt wisely.
The One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) makes many favorable tax provisions from the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act permanent, including lower tax rates, higher standard deductions, and expanded credits. It introduces key changes like increased SALT deduction caps, enhanced child and dependent care credits, and new deductions for car loan interest and seniors. Understanding these updates is essential for effective multi-year tax planning to optimize your financial decisions under the new law.
Paying taxes is as much of a nuisance in retirement as having a bad pickleball partner. Make sure to plan for and submit your required tax estimates during the year and take advantage of some tips and tricks to avoid penalties and to perhaps optimize your income potential.
Bucket portfolios are designed to provide spending resources during investors’ decumulation periods, usually in retirement. They are made of three buckets, arranged by time horizon – now, soon, and later – and the investment type used in each bucket – cash, bonds, and stocks. Learn more about bucket portfolios by contacting Oasis Wealth Planning Advisors.
