Monthly Archives: September 2009

What’s With Those Economic Indicators?

September 25, 2009 – 10:58 AM

So let’s imagine that you are all excited about that upcoming vacation to the Caribbean and getting all your packing done. Have you taken the time, however, to check on the weather forecast? What if that tropical storm was suddenly gaining strength, heading towards your destination, and developing into a full hurricane? Wouldn’t you want to know that before you left on the trip? Well I am suggesting that an investor should also be checking the economic forecast before putting those funds to work in the investment markets. So how do we know just how favorable or unfavorable the economic… Continue reading

By Ron | Posted in Investments | Tagged , | Comments (0)

When To Take Social Security Benefits

September 18, 2009 – 11:16 AM

woman thinking about social securityWith the unfortunate rounds of layoffs in the past year, many retirement age folks who were not intending to retire have been forced into that decision or to go job hunting. We have been asked over and over again “is this the time to start my Social Security payments?” While we have spoken and written on this matter in the past, it is a very real issue at the present time. Below please find my thoughts and analysis on the… Continue reading | 7 Comments

By Neal | Posted in Retirement | Tagged , , , | Comments (7)

Preparing For The Inevitable

September 11, 2009 – 9:47 AM

grieving_womanIn the recent past, I have had the experience of losing my father at age 82. As a Financial and Estate Planner, I have been part of planning hundreds of estates, and unfortunately, helping to settle far too many. Being that this time it was a personal family event, it gave me insight into the feelings and family dynamics that go along with the passing of a family member. For me, estate planning comes naturally- perhaps having 25+ years of experience helps, along with hearing and… Continue reading

By Neal | Posted in Financial Planning | Tagged , , , | Comments (0)

NY Cost Of Living Is Expensive!

September 4, 2009 – 2:29 PM

This past week while meeting with a new client, I was delighted to see a broad, smiling face at the opening of the meeting. Shamus McBurke (not his real name- I just liked the way it sounded!) was looking at life from a different prospective- the way he saw it, this recession, drop in his 401(k), and diminished return on his investments sparked a completely new way to look at life for the first time in his 64 years…it was time for a change! And so, I asked this joyful person to explain to me the epiphany he was experiencing… Continue reading

By Neal | Posted in Investments | Tagged , , , , | Comments (0)