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What’s on our mind? You can read about it in our blog. Whether it’s ideas from the industry or emerging trends, you can read about it here. And once in a while, we may throw in a movie review or some other surprise. So keep checking in. We’re glad to have you reading along.

Thursday, December 8, 2022

The end of the year is a great time to review your portfolio, assess its performance, and formulate your tax-planning strategies. Here are two important considerations for your portfolio construction.In This Article:Tax loss harvesting...

Tuesday, December 6, 2022

Stocks ended higher last week as investors navigated the crosscurrents of a potential easing in future rate hikes and continued strength in the labor market.The Dow Jones Industrial Average edged 0.24% higher, while the Standard &...

Tuesday, November 29, 2022

Annual giving empowers you to use your financial means for good. But there are giving strategies that allow you to give while also potentially reducing your tax liability. Today is Giving Tuesday, so let's explore five charitable...

Tuesday, November 29, 2022

Growing optimism that the Fed may be ready to ease future interest rate hikes sent stocks higher in a quiet trading week.The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 1.78%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 added 1.53%. The Nasdaq...

Thursday, November 17, 2022

We invite you to check out the new issue of Eye On Money! Inside are articles on:Year-end tax planning. You may be able to reduce your 2022 taxes if you act soon. Several tax-minimization tips and strategies for individuals are...

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Tuesday, November 15, 2022

Annual giving empowers you to use your financial means for good. But there are giving strategies that allow you to give while also potentially reducing your tax liability. IN THIS ARTICLE:A donor-advised fund (DAF) is a fund set...

Tuesday, November 15, 2022

A cooling inflation number ignited a powerful rally on Thursday, sending stocks to strong gains for the week.The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 4.15%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 added 5.90%. The Nasdaq Composite index...

Tuesday, November 8, 2022

The midterm elections are underway. In many states, ballots have been delivered and, in several cases, already returned by Americans exercising one of the most sacred of their Constitutional rights.Election Day is always the Tuesday...

Tuesday, November 8, 2022

Hawkish comments by Fed Chair Jerome Powell, following the announcement of another 75 basis points interest rate hike last week, cast a pall over financial markets, sending yields higher and stocks lower.The Dow Jones Industrial...

Thursday, November 3, 2022

The Internal Revenue Service has released new limits for the coming year. After months of high inflation and financial uncertainty, some of these cost-of-living-based adjustments have reached near-record levels.Individual Retirement...

Tuesday, November 1, 2022

Stocks overcame poor earnings results from some of America’s largest companies to post gains last week as investors cheered positive earnings surprises, easing inflation and a rebound in economic growth.The Dow Jones Industrial...

Tuesday, October 25, 2022

Which retirement plan is right for you — and how can you utilize that plan as a tax-savings strategy?The answer depends on several factors: employment status, the types of plans an employer offers, contribution and deduction...

Tuesday, October 25, 2022

A positive start to a new earnings season and late-week hopes for a near-term easing in Fed rate hikes lifted investors’ spirits and powered stocks to gains for the week.The Dow Jones Industrial Average jumped 4.89%, while the...

Thursday, October 20, 2022

Stubborn doesn’t seem like a strong enough word, but that’s how Fed officials are describing inflation.Inflation's “stubbornness” has been on full display in recent weeks: First, the Producer Price Index (PPI)...

Wednesday, October 19, 2022

Stocks were mixed last week amid wide intra- and inter-day price swings, as technology shares bore the brunt of the downdraft.The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 1.15% for the week. Meanwhile, the Standard & Poor’s 500...

Tuesday, October 11, 2022

Selling a stock at a gain this year and facing a capital gains tax? Tax loss harvesting could be a beneficial strategy for reducing your capital gains tax obligation.IN THIS ARTICLE:●      Tax loss...

Tuesday, October 11, 2022

A powerful two-day stock rebound cemented a positive week for investors as a new trading month began.The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 1.99%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 added 1.51%. The Nasdaq Composite index increased 0...

Thursday, October 6, 2022

We invite you to check out the new issue of Eye On Money! Inside are articles on:Saving for college. Although the cost of college may be daunting, starting a college fund to help tackle the cost doesn’t have to be. These...

Tuesday, October 4, 2022

Rising recession fears and uncertainty in the bond and currency markets sent stocks to new 2022 lows last week.The Dow Jones Industrial Average declined 2.92%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 slumped 2.91%. The Nasdaq Composite...

Tuesday, September 27, 2022

Last week, Fed Chair Powell said the U.S. would not tame inflation without economic pain. This week heightened recession fears and sent stocks broadly lower.The Dow Jones Industrial Average dropped 4.00%, while the Standard &...

Tuesday, September 20, 2022

September is Life Insurance Awareness Month. If you haven’t reviewed your insurance profile in a while, you may be surprised that what made sense in the past no longer fits your life.Here are some ways to quickly evaluate your...

Tuesday, September 20, 2022

A hotter-than-expected inflation report sent stocks sharply lower last week as investors faced the prospect of more aggressive interest rate hikes by the Federal Reserve for perhaps a longer period.The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell...

Friday, September 16, 2022

As a small business, it’s important to attract top talent, but without benefits like retirement plans, gaining — and keeping — valuable employees can be difficult.Fortunately, with several retirement plan options...

Tuesday, September 13, 2022

In a holiday-shortened week of trading, stocks posted healthy gains despite more tough talk on monetary policy from Fed officials.The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 2.66%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 gained 3.65%. The...

Tuesday, September 6, 2022

A safe harbor 401(k) is a win-win for both employers and employees. This type of retirement plan allows employers to pass up the cumbersome nondiscrimination testing requirements that traditional 401(k) plans are subject to, while also...

Thursday, September 1, 2022

Have you heard? The Inflation Reduction Act was signed into law on Tuesday, August 16. While the $430 billion package includes many provisions,here are three key areas where you may benefit the most.Tax credits for energy-related home...

Tuesday, August 30, 2022

A comprehensive sell-off on Friday following comments by Fed Chair Jerome Powell drove stocks to losses for the week.The Dow Jones Industrial Average tumbled 4.22%, while the Standard & Poor's 500 dropped 4.04%. The Nasdaq Composite...

Tuesday, August 23, 2022

Stocks tumbled on Friday, sending stocks to a weekly loss after an otherwise quiet August week of trading.The Dow Jones Industrial Average slipped -0.16%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 lost 1.21%. The Nasdaq Composite index...

Tuesday, August 16, 2022

As a parent, you of course want to give your child the best opportunity for success, and for many, attending the “right” university or college is that opportunity. Unfortunately, being accepted to the college of one’s...

Tuesday, August 16, 2022

An improving inflation outlook buoyed investors’ spirits last week, helping lift stocks to solid gains.The Dow Jones Industrial Average advanced 2.92%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 rose 3.26%. The Nasdaq Composite index...

Tuesday, August 9, 2022

Welcome to the final part of our 2022 Halftime Report! The goal of this 4-part report is to help you better understand what happened in the markets in the first half of 2022 and what may unfold in the months ahead. In this report,...

Tuesday, August 9, 2022

Stocks turned in a mixed performance last week as investors struggled with headlines suggesting that the Fed was unlikely to soon ease up on its current monetary tightening policy.The Dow Jones Industrial Average slipped 0.13%, while...

Wednesday, August 3, 2022

Welcome to the third part of our 2022 Halftime Report! The goal of this 4-part report is to help you better understand what happened in the markets in the first half of 2022 and what may unfold in the months ahead. In our past two...

Wednesday, August 3, 2022

Welcome to the second part of our 2022 Halftime Report! The goal of this 4-part report is to help you better understand what happened in the markets in the first half of 2022 and what may unfold in the months ahead. In our last...

Tuesday, August 2, 2022

Undaunted by another Fed rate hike and news of a contracting economy, the stock market rallied last week on better-than-expected corporate earnings.The Dow Jones Industrial Average increased 2.97%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500...

Thursday, July 28, 2022

Welcome to our 2022 Halftime Report! The goal of this 4-part report is to help you better understand what happened in the markets in the first half of 2022 and what may unfold in the months ahead. In this report, we'll cover a...

Tuesday, July 26, 2022

Stocks rallied last week as investor spirits lifted thanks to a better-than-expected start to the second-quarter earnings season.The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 1.95%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 added 2.55%. The...

Thursday, July 21, 2022

When it comes to insurance policies, far too many people simply purchase a policy and put it at the back of their minds. However, circumstances change, and the policy you purchased a few years ago may no longer be the most...

Tuesday, July 19, 2022

A record-high inflation report, the prospects of a more aggressive Fed, and growing recession fears sent stocks lower– though losses were pared by a Friday rally.The Dow Jones Industrial Average slipped 0.16%, while the Standard...

Thursday, July 14, 2022

Now that half the year is over, it's a good time to think about what the rest of 2022 might bring. Because of inflation and economic uncertainty, many of us have had to put off or cancel trips, big purchases, and other things. It...

Tuesday, July 12, 2022

In a holiday-shortened trading week, stocks rallied despite mixed economic data and vacillating energy prices and bond yields.The Dow Jones Industrial Average increased 0.77%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 rose 1.94%. The...

Thursday, July 7, 2022

We invite you to check out the new issue of Eye On Money! Inside are articles on:Estate planning. Putting together an estate plan is one of the best things you can do to protect your family’s financial future, as well as your own...

Tuesday, July 5, 2022

It’s natural to think “defense” during a bearish market season. But why not mix in some “offense” with your defense? Here are three moves we can discuss together that may be helpful during the current...

Thursday, June 23, 2022

When it comes to designing a retirement plan, it’s essential to explore all options to find out what is best for you and your small business. Retirement planning as a tax-savings tool is often underutilized by small business...

Tuesday, June 14, 2022

Summer’s here, and the time is right for vacations, outdoor activities, and fun. It’s also a good time to consider a few financial matters. Here are some questions to ask yourself mid-year.Goals still the same for 2022? Has...

Tuesday, June 14, 2022

A higher-than-expected inflation report triggered a sell-off on Friday, leaving stocks in the red for the week.The Dow Jones Industrial Average lost 4.58%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 dropped 5.05%. The Nasdaq Composite index...

Thursday, June 9, 2022

"Be fearful when others are greedy and greedy when others are fearful," according to legendary investor Warren Buffett.It's a great quote but complex advice to follow, especially in 2022 when stock prices are down double-digits. It...

Tuesday, June 7, 2022

In a holiday-shortened week of volatile trading, stocks surrendered some of the previous week’s strong gains.The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 0.94%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 declined 1.20%. The Nasdaq Composite...

Thursday, June 2, 2022

Do you really need life insurance? Is it too expensive? Are you relying on the coverage you've purchased through work to stay with you forever? If so, you may have fallen prey to some common life insurance myths. But never fear! We're...

Tuesday, May 31, 2022

Stocks posted solid gains for the week, buoyed by the release of Fed meeting minutes and upbeat earnings from mid-size and discount retailers.The Dow Jones Industrial Average jumped 6.24%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 advanced...

Tuesday, May 24, 2022

Recession fears grew last week following weak earnings reports from major retailers, sending stocks lower.The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 2.90%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 lost 3.05%. The Nasdaq Composite index dropped...

Tuesday, May 17, 2022

Tuesday, May 17, 2022

Friday, May 13, 2022

Tuesday, May 10, 2022

Tuesday, May 10, 2022

Tuesday, April 26, 2022

Tuesday, April 19, 2022

Wednesday, April 13, 2022

Tuesday, April 12, 2022

Thursday, April 7, 2022

Tuesday, April 5, 2022

Tuesday, April 5, 2022

Tuesday, March 29, 2022

Tuesday, March 29, 2022

Thursday, March 24, 2022

If you aren't eligible for a traditional IRA due to income or contribution limits, a backdoor Roth IRA might be right for you. A backdoor IRA is created by converting an existing traditional IRA to a Roth. Learn how in this post.

Tuesday, March 22, 2022

Thursday, March 17, 2022

Tuesday, March 15, 2022

Tuesday, March 8, 2022

Monday, March 7, 2022

Thursday, March 3, 2022

Thursday, March 3, 2022

Tuesday, March 1, 2022

Thursday, February 24, 2022

As we discuss the primary drivers behind these recent market movements, we want to highlight the fact these types of pullbacks and the volatility associated with them are normal, considered healthy, and expected to occur from time to time.

Wednesday, February 23, 2022

Tuesday, February 22, 2022

Monday, February 21, 2022

Landmark Financial is celebrating the firm’s 20th anniversary this year. The firm began in 2002 as a way to help Landmark CPAs’ clients plan more comprehensively for retirement and manage their wealth in the most tax-efficient manner. In 20

Tuesday, February 15, 2022

Tuesday, February 15, 2022

Thursday, February 10, 2022

In our 3-part State of the Markets Report, we've looked at some of the factors affecting market performance in 2021, where we are now, and the headwinds and tailwinds that could affect the direction of economic growth and...

Tuesday, February 8, 2022

Tuesday, February 1, 2022

Thursday, January 27, 2022

In this State of the Markets Report post, let's look at where we are now and examine the headwinds and tailwinds that could affect the direction of economic growth and financial markets in 2022.

Tuesday, January 25, 2022

Thursday, January 20, 2022

Let’s begin by looking back at Wall Street analysts' initial predictions for the market’s performance in 2021, how stocks actually performed in 2021, and some of the factors that drove that performance.

Wednesday, January 19, 2022

Tuesday, January 18, 2022

Check out the new Eye On Money issue for tips and info on improving your financial fitness, how a divorce may affect your tax return, stopping and restarting Social Security benefits, and more!

Thursday, January 13, 2022

A little extra money here and there isn't a bad thing, but don't spend it on diet ideas that say they'll help you get better health based on myths. Here are four ways to lose weight that may not work or be very expensive.

Tuesday, January 11, 2022

Friday, January 7, 2022

YOUR 4% WITHDRAWAL STRATEGY MAY NOT BE ENOUGH Get the Tax Guidance You Need to Help Live the Retirement You Desire There’s a lot of concern among industry experts about whether the popular 4% withdrawal rule can provide enough income...

Friday, January 7, 2022

YOUR 4% WITHDRAWAL STRATEGY MAY NOT BE ENOUGH Get the Tax Guidance You Need to Help Live the Retirement You Desire There’s a lot of concern among industry experts about whether the popular 4% withdrawal rule can provide enough income...

Tuesday, January 4, 2022

Tuesday, December 28, 2021

Tuesday, December 21, 2021

Tuesday, December 21, 2021

Tuesday, December 14, 2021

Tuesday, December 14, 2021

Many people who quit their jobs are faced with the issue of what to do with their 401(k) account. Individuals who have a 401(k) account from a prior employer have four options.

Thursday, December 9, 2021

Tuesday, December 7, 2021

Tuesday, December 7, 2021

Thursday, December 2, 2021

When financial markets become unpredictable, some investors express their dissatisfaction by departing the markets in search of safer alternatives. For example, due to market volatility, the S&P 500 lost about 20% of its value, or $5.6...

Tuesday, November 30, 2021

News of a new, highly virulent COVID variant triggered a market sell-off on Friday, sending stocks into negative territory for the week.The Dow Jones Industrial Average slid 1.97%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 slumped 2...

Tuesday, November 30, 2021

You might be able to use the tax law to your advantage if you take the time to understand more about how it works. Let's start with two key tax concepts: credits and deductions. 2 Credits Tax credits have more clout in lowering your...

Tuesday, November 23, 2021

The holiday season is often a quiet, positive time for the financial markets. The phrase “Santa Claus Rally” was coined in the early 1970s to reflect the stock market’s upward bias during the November-January stretch...

Tuesday, November 23, 2021

Stocks were mixed last week in choppy trading as investors battled the crosscurrents of good economic data and a troubling rise in COVID-19 infections globally.The Dow Jones Industrial Average slid 1.38%, while the Standard &...

Thursday, November 18, 2021

The reason withdrawals from an Traditional Individual Retirement Account (IRA) prior to age 59½ are generally subject to a 10% tax penalty is that policymakers wanted to create a disincentive to use these savings for anything...

Tuesday, November 16, 2021

Preparing for retirement just got a little more financial wiggle room. This week, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) announced new contribution limits for 2022.Staying put for 2022 are traditional Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs)...

Tuesday, November 16, 2021

Stocks posted small declines last week as investors digested recent stock market gains and an unexpectedly high inflation read.The Dow Jones Industrial Average slid 0.63%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 retreated 0.31%. The...

Thursday, November 11, 2021

Are you making charitable donations at year’s end? If so, you should know about some of the financial “fine print” involved, as the right moves could potentially bring more of a benefit to both you and your chosen...

Tuesday, November 9, 2021

A Federal Reserve announcement on tapering, a fresh batch of corporate profits, and encouraging economic data lifted stocks to another weekly gain.The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 1.42%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500...

Monday, November 8, 2021

We invite you to check out the new issue of Eye On Money! Inside are articles on: Year-end tax planning You may be able to reduce your 2021 taxes if you act soon. There are several tax-minimization tips and strategies for individuals...

Thursday, November 4, 2021

Potential Strategies to Combat Increased Taxes Many individuals are stuck in a holding pattern as they wait to see what impact the Biden Administration will have on tax regulations. The President has shared what he’d like to see...

Tuesday, November 2, 2021

A fresh wave of positive corporate earnings surprises sent markets to new record highs last week.The Dow Jones Industrial Average increased 0.40%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 rose 1.33%. The Nasdaq Composite index picked...

Tuesday, November 2, 2021

While it is still too early to draw any final conclusions, Congress is getting closer to outlining what tax law changes are being considered to fund the proposed $1.75 trillion Build Back Better Plan. 1 Tax Law Changes Considered...

Thursday, October 28, 2021

It's a frequent myth that once you retire, your tax bills will decrease, your tax returns will get simpler, and tax preparation will become obsolete. For some, this may be true, but for others, the combination of Social Security,...

Tuesday, October 26, 2021

Congress is exploring a number of tax code adjustments, including adjusting estate taxes, to help produce income to pay for President Biden's Build Back Better Plan. With an effective date of January 1, 2022, one of the ideas would cut...

Tuesday, October 26, 2021

Stocks rallied last week on a stream of positive corporate earnings surprises.The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 1.08%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 advanced 1.64%. The Nasdaq Composite index gained 1.29% for the week....

Wednesday, October 20, 2021

A strong opening to the third-quarter earnings season sparked a late week, broad-based rally that helped stocks finish the week with solid gains.The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 1.58%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500...

Wednesday, October 20, 2021

There are many unanswered questions surrounding President Biden's Build Back Better agenda and potential tax law adjustments, such as a capital gains tax adjustment. One of the measures under consideration by Congress raises the top...

Thursday, October 14, 2021

One of the chief fears individuals have as they enter retirement is outliving their income. For those who need it, long-term-care costs are becoming an increasingly large portion of an individual’s annual budget. A long-term-care...

Tuesday, October 12, 2021

The overhang of bumping against the federal debt ceiling was lifted last week with an agreement to extend the debt ceiling through early December, helping propel stocks to a weekly gain.The Dow Jones Industrial Average increased by 1...

Tuesday, October 12, 2021

Plan for tomorrow, today.That seems like sensible advice, doesn't it? Yet a surprising number of people leave no estate plan in place for their survivors. It makes a certain amount of sense. Nobody likes talking about death. But this...

Thursday, October 7, 2021

When training to become a financial professional, much of our course work centers on the six critical areas of creating a financial strategy. Some recognize October as Financial Planning Month, so it's an excellent opportunity to...

Tuesday, October 5, 2021

How long has it been since you’ve reviewed your Medicare policy? With open enrollment fast approaching, there are a few questions you may want to ask yourself before you renew, add, drop, or switch coverage. Have you switched...

Tuesday, October 5, 2021

Higher bond yields and a legislative stalemate in Washington, D.C., added up to losses for the week.The Dow Jones Industrial Average declined 1.36%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 lost 2.21%. The Nasdaq Composite index fell...

Tuesday, September 28, 2021

A funny thing happened in the investment markets the other day. September was living up to its reputation as a volatile month, but then the Federal Reserve came to the rescue.The Fed concluded its Federal Open Market Committee meeting...

Tuesday, September 28, 2021

Stocks prices were whipsawed last week, dragged initially lower by financial contagion worries and later lifted by a supportive Fed policy statement.The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 0.62%, while the Standard & Poor’s...

Thursday, September 23, 2021

Safe Harbor 401(k) plans are the most popular type of 401(k) sponsored by small businesses today. A Safe Harbor plan is a special kind of 401(k) that is exempt from nondiscrimination testing. It has certain built-in elements that help...

Tuesday, September 21, 2021

Stocks weakened ahead of this week’s Federal Reserve meeting and amid persistent concerns about the Delta variant’s impact on the economy.The Dow Jones Industrial Average was flat (-0.07%), while the Standard &...

Tuesday, September 21, 2021

How do you put money aside for retirement when you’re self-employed? Roth Solo 401(k): Tax-Free Retirement Income One approach to consider is a Roth Solo 401(k). It may allow you to create tax-free retirement income. You’re...

Thursday, September 16, 2021

October 1st is the deadline for setting up a SIMPLE IRA for your business.With a SIMPLE IRA, you get a retirement plan with very low administrative costs and it’s a great tool to attract new employees and retain existing...

Wednesday, September 15, 2021

Does everyone need a financial advisor? No. But, here are the importance of a financial advisor, for the people who really need one.

Tuesday, September 14, 2021

When it comes to picking an IRA, both traditional and Roth IRAs may play an important role in your retirement strategy.

Tuesday, September 14, 2021

In a quiet week of news, stocks moved lower amid simmering concerns over the Delta variant’s effect on the progress of economic reopening.The Dow Jones Industrial Average declined 2.15%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500...

Friday, September 10, 2021

We invite you to check out the new issue of Eye On Money! Inside are articles on: Catching up on retirement savings. Getting a late start on saving for retirement? These tips can help you play catch up and build your retirement savings...

Thursday, September 9, 2021

Do you work for yourself? Then you may want to consider the solo 401(k), which marries a traditional employee retirement savings account to a small-business, profit-sharing plan. To have a solo 401(k), you must either be the lone...

Tuesday, September 7, 2021

Stocks were mixed last week amid conflicting economic data and continued spread of Delta variant infections.The Dow Jones Industrial Average slipped 0.24% during the five trading days. But the Standard & Poor’s 500 tacked on...

Tuesday, September 7, 2021

It’s time for your life insurance checkup. September is National Life Insurance Awareness Month, so it’s a great time to review your coverage.1 If you don’t have any life insurance, you’re not alone. Life...

Thursday, September 2, 2021

As a small-business owner, figuring out retirement choices can be a little intimidating. How do you pick the most appropriate retirement plan for your business as well as your employees? There are a number of choices when creating...

Tuesday, August 31, 2021

Your workplace retirement account can play a critical role in your overall retirement strategy. However, some have gone further with the accounts than others, especially recently. CNBC reported on findings that place 401(k) accounts...

Tuesday, August 31, 2021

The stock market powered to record levels last week amid talk of Fed tapering and a deceleration in new Delta variant cases.The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 0.96%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 increased 1.52%. The...

Thursday, August 26, 2021

Today, a college degree is a minimum requirement for most high-skilled occupations and many parents assume that their children will continue their education after high school. Still, the average cost of a four-year college education...

Tuesday, August 24, 2021

It doesn’t take a degree in finance to see the cost of college continues to rise. In its 2017 report, the College Board showed that public four-year institutions raised prices an average of 3.2% annually between the 2007-08 and...

Tuesday, August 24, 2021

Stocks turned lower last week amid the increasing probability of a Fed tapering, mixed economic data, and growing concerns about the economic impact of the Delta variant.The Dow Jones Industrial Average slumped 1.11%, while the...

Tuesday, August 17, 2021

Looking past inflation figures and Delta variant trends, stocks last week found a way to climb higher and set fresh record highs in the process.The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 0.87%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500...

Tuesday, August 17, 2021

If college were a party, then student loans are the hangover. Unfortunately, the “hair of the dog” won't cure this headache, but here are some ideas for managing your student loan debt. Managing Student Loan Debt...

Thursday, August 12, 2021

More than 30 states offer potential tax benefits for 529 plan contributions. Usually, you only qualify for them by contributing to the 529 plan in your home state. If you live in Arizona, Arkansas, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana...

Tuesday, August 10, 2021

College marks a great milestone in a child’s life. It may be the first time he or she will live away from home. Dropping off your child at college may be an experience loaded with emotions, so here are a few tips for a smoother...

Tuesday, August 10, 2021

Overcoming jitters about the Delta variant and the reintroduction of mask requirements, stocks climbed higher on strong employment data and a fresh batch of strong corporate earnings.The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 0.78% while...

Friday, July 30, 2021

With July almost over, it’s time to face the facts: we’re headed toward the second half of 2021. While there’s still plenty of time to enjoy the rest of summer, we encourage you to slow down and check up on your...

Tuesday, July 27, 2021

Overcoming a COVID-related economic growth scare, stocks moved higher amid a week of strong corporate earnings reports.The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 1.08%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 gained 1.96%. The Nasdaq...

Tuesday, July 27, 2021

Having a baby is an incredible experience, but it can also fill you with financial anxiety. No need to worry! Time is on your side. Check out this video about the incredible life milestone of having a baby. Developing a solid financial...

Thursday, July 22, 2021

An estimated 721,000 vacation homes sold last year. That's down nearly 22% from the year before.¹ When it comes to insuring your second home, you may find that the coverage you need is quite different from what you have on your...

Tuesday, July 20, 2021

Inheriting wealth can be a burden and a blessing. Even if you have an inclination that a family member may remember you in their last will and testament, there are many facets to the process of inheritance that you may not have...

Tuesday, July 20, 2021

Despite a good start to earnings season and some solid economic data, worries of slower second-half economic growth led to a pullback in stock prices last week.The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 0.52%, while the Standard &...

Thursday, July 15, 2021

Marriage changes everything, including insurance needs. Newly married couples should consider a comprehensive review of their current individual insurance coverage to determine if any changes are in order, as well as consider new...

Tuesday, July 13, 2021

Stocks managed small gains as investors wrestled with concerns over economic growth prospects and a rise in COVID-19 infections.The Dow Jones Industrial Average picked up 0.24%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 gained 0.40%....

Tuesday, July 13, 2021

According to the most recent report by Giving USA, Americans gave a record breaking $471 billion to charity in 2020.1 Americans usually give to charity for two main reasons: to support a cause or organization they care about, or to...

Friday, July 9, 2021

Our Landmark Financial Arkansas team was recently featured in Do South Magazine in their Financial Advisor Profiles feature. Dale talked about our firm, our client experience philosophy and our love of collaboration. Read the full...

Thursday, July 8, 2021

The latest research suggests that divorce rates in the U.S. have been falling in recent decades. Still, many people face the difficult crossroads that comes when their marriage ends.1 Getting a divorce is a painful, emotional process....

Wednesday, July 7, 2021

We invite you to check out the new issue of Eye On Money! Inside are articles on: How to make the most of your charitable contributions. These tips can help you maximize your tax breaks for supporting your favorite charities. Deciding...

Tuesday, July 6, 2021

Research suggests that 70% of married millennial couples argue about financial decisions more than any other topic. This could explain why some experts say financial problems are one of the top reasons marriages fail.1,2 Fortunately,...

Tuesday, July 6, 2021

Strong employment reports and rising consumer confidence sent the stock market broadly higher last week.The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 1.02%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 picked up 1.67%. The Nasdaq Composite index...

Thursday, July 1, 2021

Recently, you may have seen headlines regarding the Securing a Strong Retirement Act, also referred to as the second version of the SECURE Act, or SECURE Act 2.0. As the bill moves from the House of Representatives to the Senate, many...

Tuesday, June 29, 2021

Recently, you may have seen a number of major cryptocurrencies fall thanks to a continuing sell-off that began last week. In fact, over $250 billion was lost in the crypto market alone.1It may be tempting to view this as another...

Tuesday, June 29, 2021

Stocks reached new all-time highs last week as markets staged a strong rebound from the previous week’s declines.The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 3.44%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 picked up 2.74%. The Nasdaq...

Thursday, June 24, 2021

Recent years have witnessed the mainstreaming of alternative investments for certain accredited investors. In fact, alternative investments are expected to grow from $13.9 trillion in 2020 to $21.1 trillion in 2025.1,2 The impetus...

Tuesday, June 22, 2021

Recently, you may have seen reports that a record-low number of homes are available for sale—roughly 1.03 million nationwide. If you compare that to the average number of homes for sale during the past 10 years, it's no surprise...

Monday, June 21, 2021

New messaging from the Federal Reserve on interest rates and inflation last week led to a broad retreat in stock prices.The Dow Jones Industrial Average dropped 3.45% while the Standard & Poor’s 500 lost 1.91%. The Nasdaq...

Monday, June 21, 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic has affected families’ finances in many ways. One negative impact for some families has been a disruption in their well-laid college savings plans. The economic crush of the pandemic may have put saving for...

Wednesday, June 16, 2021

Inflation can be a scary word for people who are retired. It’s code for “prices are going up, but my income may stay the same.” The most recent reading on consumer prices put inflation back into the conversation. The...

Tuesday, June 15, 2021

Stocks ended the week mixed as investors appeared to shrug off a hotter-than-expected inflation report.The Dow Jones Industrial Average slipped 0.80%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 advanced 0.41%. The Nasdaq Composite...

Tuesday, June 15, 2021

Since the 1980s, unemployment rates have trended higher amongst men than women during a recession. In previous periods of economic downturn, this made sense. Male-dominated industries, like construction and finance, were typically...

Thursday, June 10, 2021

“If the current annual inflation rate is only 1.4 percent,1 why do my bills seem like they're 10 percent higher than last year?” Many of us ask ourselves that question, and it illustrates the importance of understanding how...

Wednesday, June 9, 2021

A recent survey shows that 63% of investors are more interested in protecting their financial assets and planning for uncertainty in the future than anything else.1 There are many reasons for this change, but here are a few of the...

Tuesday, June 8, 2021

A strong, but not too strong, employment report sparked a rally on the final day of trading, propelling stocks to a modest gain for the week.The Dow Jones Industrial Average climbed by 0.66%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500...

Thursday, June 3, 2021

Forty-eight percent of Americans do not own any stocks or stock-related investments, according to the most recent data available from Pew Research Center.1 Individuals may cite different reasons for not investing, but with important...

Wednesday, June 2, 2021

Optimism over the economic reopening and renewed enthusiasm for technology and other high-growth companies powered the stock market higher last week.The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 0.94%, while the Standard & Poor’s...

Tuesday, June 1, 2021

Non-fungible tokens, or NFTs, have been the recipient of the latest buzz. NFTs are digital files attached to blockchain codes. If you know anything about digital currencies, you’re probably aware that these blockchain codes are...

Thursday, May 27, 2021

Only 45 percent of adults have a will or other estate documents in place, which may not be entirely surprising.1 No one wants to be reminded of their own mortality or spend too much time thinking about what might happen once...

Tuesday, May 25, 2021

Perhaps Bette Davis said it best when she observed, “Old age is no place for sissies.”¹ The challenges seniors have met throughout their lives have made them wiser and stronger, preparing them for the unique challenges...

Friday, May 21, 2021

American actor Lee Marvin once said, “As soon as people see my face on a movie screen, they knew two things: first, I'm not going to get the girl, and second, I'll get a cheap funeral before the picture is over.”1 Most...

Wednesday, May 19, 2021

We invite you to check out the new issue of Eye On Money! Inside are articles on: How to make the most of your 401(k). These tips can help you manage your 401(k), from the moment you enroll in the plan until the time you retire....

Tuesday, May 18, 2021

Many of us hope to leave something behind for our loved ones when we pass away. But the probate process is complex. To understand how to better manage potential probate fees, let’s explore what probate is and how the process...

Thursday, May 13, 2021

You’re young, have little in savings, and might not have anyone relying on you, financially. So, why do you need an estate strategy?1Here are four great reasons: Estate Strategy: Not Just for the Elderly You need a will. You may...

Tuesday, May 11, 2021

Do you have an estate plan? If you don't, you aren't alone. Preparing your estate is a task most people put off because they are unsure where to start. Below is a checklist to help you get started with your estate planning. Do you have...

Friday, May 7, 2021

U.S. Supreme Court Justice Warren Burger is famous for more than just his time on the bench. When he died in 1995, he left a 176-word will that gave no specific power to his executors.1 As a result, he reportedly cost his estate tens...

Wednesday, May 5, 2021

A living trust is a popular consideration in many estate strategy conversations, but its appropriateness will depend upon your individual needs and objectives. What is a Living Trust? A living trust is created while you are alive and...

Thursday, April 29, 2021

There are a number of reasons for business owners to consider a business succession structure sooner rather than later. Let's take a look at two.

Tuesday, April 27, 2021

The risks that social media introduce to your business are generally not new risks, but conventional risks that are delivered in a more modern way. Here are some tips to help manage the risks.

Thursday, April 22, 2021

Life insurance is designed to help protect a household from the financial hardships that may follow the untimely death of a primary wage earner. But how will a death affect a small business? One way of safeguarding a business is to...

Tuesday, April 20, 2021

One study found that 43% of cyber attacks target small business, and 60% of small companies go out of business within six months of a cyber attack.¹ Business owners are also required to protect their customers’ personal...

Thursday, April 15, 2021

Charles de Gaulle once remarked, “The graveyards are full of indispensable men.”¹ While we know that life goes on regardless of the loss of any “indispensable” person, for a small business, the loss of a...

Tuesday, April 13, 2021

Technology has not only shrunk the tools we use, but it has also given small businesses the power to operate like big businesses. Technological tools can help small businesses get better organized, efficiently manage their finances, or...

Thursday, April 8, 2021

If you're like many small business owners, running your own business is an all-consuming endeavor. In the face of everyday demands, choosing a retirement strategy for your business can become a casualty. The idea of establishing a plan...

Tuesday, April 6, 2021

For small business owners, the line between the personal and their business can be a bit hazy at times. Yet, when it comes to a vehicle that may be used for personal and business-related reasons, it’s important to know how your...

Thursday, April 1, 2021

One survey found that 79% of small business owners expect at least some of their retirement income to come from tax-advantaged retirement savings accounts.1 If you have yet to develop a retirement plan for your business, or if you're...

Thursday, March 25, 2021

Everyone loves a winner. If an investment is successful, most people naturally want to stick with it. But is this the best approach? It may sound counterintuitive, but it may be possible to have too much of a good thing. Over time, the...

Tuesday, March 23, 2021

Looking at their recent track records doesn’t do much to settle the debate about value stocks vs. growth stocks. Over the past decade, as a whole, value stocks have not performed as well as growth stocks.1 But looking at a larger...

Thursday, March 18, 2021

I’m sure you’ve heard the terms “asset allocation” and “diversification” used in the same sentence, but they are very different concepts that every investor should understand. Asset allocation refers...

Tuesday, March 16, 2021

Most people understand that stock prices don't go straight up. But when market volatility increases, the price action can test the mettle of even the most seasoned investor. In recent weeks, stock prices have trended lower with a few...

Thursday, March 11, 2021

Check out the new Eye On Money issue for info and tips on protecting your finances, your child’s investment income and taxes, charitable gifts that pay you income, and more! How to protect your finances. These tips may help...

Thursday, March 11, 2021

You may occasionally hear “talking heads” on the news discuss the bond market, but too often, these news reports use confusing language and obscure terms. Many important drivers affect the bond market, and one key concept...

Tuesday, March 9, 2021

The House recently passed the Senate another round of stimulus to try and counteract the economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. The new stimulus package could narrow income eligibility to receive a stimulus check, while expanding...

Thursday, March 4, 2021

Investing involves risk. But in the world of finance, risk can take many forms. Here are a few types of risk that I look at when considering any potential investment: Business risk. How healthy is the company behind the investment?...

Tuesday, March 2, 2021

The acronym “SPAC” is showing up more often these days because there is some big money behind the revitalized investment approach.SPAC stands for Special Purpose Acquisition Company, and they are sometimes referred to as...

Thursday, February 25, 2021

Hardly a day goes by that the topic of bitcoin or other cryptocurrency assets doesn’t come up in meetings with clients and prospects or from friends and relatives who want to know, “what all the buzz is about?”The...

Tuesday, February 23, 2021

Every few months, you may hear the phrase “earnings season” as you listen to financial news.But what exactly is “earnings season,” and why is it important to Wall Street?Earnings season is the time when a...

Thursday, February 18, 2021

The 10-year Treasury yield has climbed higher since the New Year, which means that some bond prices are dropping. You may have seen the headlines that say, “10-Year Yields Over 1%.”For some, the first time they experience...

Tuesday, February 16, 2021

The Internal Revenue Service estimates that taxpayers and businesses spend 8.1 billion hours a year complying with tax-filing requirements. To put this into perspective, if all this work were done by a single company, it would need...

Tuesday, February 9, 2021

Recently, the world has watched with great interest as a few companies have seen surprising rallies in their stock prices. You may have read stories of individual investors gaining massive returns on their investments, thanks to this...

Thursday, February 4, 2021

You may have heard the news about stocks for certain companies suddenly ballooning, quickly going from lunch money prices to several hundred dollars a share. In one case, the shares rose over 1700% since December 2020.1 So, what...

Tuesday, February 2, 2021

The U.S. Department of Agriculture estimates a middle-income family with a child born today can expect to spend about $285,000 to raise that child to the age of 17.1 That’s roughly equivalent to the median value of a new home in...

Thursday, January 28, 2021

You taught them how to read and how to ride a bike, but have you taught your children how to manage money? One study households with student loan debt showed that the average amount owed was $47,671.1 And more than 20% of recipients...

Tuesday, January 26, 2021

The personal savings rate in the United States, which is the amount of income left after taxes and household spending, has reached some significant milestones. In April, when much of the country stayed home to avoid the COVID-19...

Thursday, January 21, 2021

Have you ever had one of those months? The water heater stops heating, the dishwasher stops washing, and your family ends up on a first-name basis with the nurse at urgent care. Then, as you’re driving to work, you see smoke...

Tuesday, January 19, 2021

2021 has already had many ups and downs. Just because it’s a new year doesn’t mean that the 2020 issues go away, and so far, 2021 has been no exception to this rule. The markets opened on January 4 and traded lower out of...

Tuesday, January 12, 2021

We invite you to check out the new issue of Eye On Money! Inside are articles on: What to do in the year before retirement. The decisions you make in the year before retirement regarding your retirement accounts, pensions, Social...

Monday, January 4, 2021

Landmark PLC, Certified Public Accountants and Landmark Financial, LLC (collectively, Landmark), are pleased to announce that the leadership and staff of Arizona-based firm Monheit Frisch have joined the Landmark team effective January...

Tuesday, December 22, 2020

For many of us, 2020 has been a year unlike any other. For some, it’s brought hardships that have tested the hardiest of souls. For others, it has brought unspeakable loss. Yet, we press on, and as we do, we may be surprised to...

Tuesday, December 22, 2020

In the last few weeks, we’ve covered a variety of tax planning tips on our blog. Today, we wrap up the series with our final topic, which includes Roth IRA considerations and the alternative minimum tax. If you missed our...

Thursday, December 17, 2020

Stocks retreated last week on rising COVID-19 infections and slow progress on an economic relief bill.The Dow Jones Industrial Average dipped 0.57%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 dropped 0.96%. The Nasdaq Composite index...

Tuesday, December 15, 2020

There is still time to potentially reduce your 2020 federal income taxes, but you'll need to act soon. There are several tax minimization strategies for individuals including timing your income and deductions, making the most of your...

Thursday, December 10, 2020

There is still time to potentially reduce your 2020 federal income taxes, but you'll need to act soon. There are several tax minimization strategies for individuals including timing your income and deductions, making the most of your...

Tuesday, December 8, 2020

The start of the holiday shopping season can provide important clues about the economy's state and, more importantly, overall consumer confidence. So far, the results have been a “mixed bag” with empty malls and busy...

Tuesday, December 1, 2020

There is still time to potentially reduce your 2020 federal income taxes, but you'll need to act soon. There are several tax minimization strategies for individuals including timing your income and deductions, making the most of your...

Thursday, November 19, 2020

As an investor, it can be tempting to get caught up in daily news headlines. Consider how news about the election and COVID-19 vaccines have moved the markets over the past several weeks. But having a financial strategy can help you...

Tuesday, November 17, 2020

There is still time to potentially reduce your 2020 federal income taxes, but you'll need to act soon. There are several tax minimization strategies for individuals including timing your income and deductions, making the most of your...

Friday, November 13, 2020

Now that several major news groups have projected Joe Biden the winner of the presidential election—and Congress appears divided with Democrats in control of the House and Republicans the Senate—it’s a good time to...

Tuesday, November 10, 2020

There is still time to potentially reduce your 2020 federal income taxes, but you'll need to act soon. There are several tax minimization strategies for individuals including timing your income and deductions,making the most of your...

Tuesday, November 3, 2020

Who among us wants to pay the IRS more taxes than we have to?1 While few may raise their hands, Americans regularly overpay because they fail to take tax deductions for which they are eligible. Let’s take a quick look at the six...

Thursday, October 29, 2020

It should come as no surprise that the economy is the most crucial issue in the upcoming election.But here's something that may surprise you. More than 90% of investors say they plan to change their portfolio in the 12 months...

Tuesday, October 27, 2020

I’m proud to pay taxes in the United States; the only thing is, I could be just as proud for half the money."Entertainer Arthur Godfrey1 The irrevocable life insurance trust (ILIT) can be an important estate strategy tool that...

Wednesday, October 21, 2020

The upcoming election is prompting some people to reconsider their investment strategy.In fact, 45% of consumers with $100,000 or more investable assets expect to make changes to their portfolio due to the upcoming 2020 presidential...

Tuesday, October 20, 2020

When uninsured people end up in the hospital, “sticker shock” can follow. Just a quick look at the current prices for medical procedures can be sobering. How much does a CT scan cost? Between $250 to $1,500, depending on...

Thursday, October 15, 2020

It’s a startling statistic.45% of consumers with $100,000 or more investable assets expect to make changes to their investments due to the upcoming 2020 presidential election.1Second-guessing your investment strategy is natural,...

Tuesday, October 13, 2020

The Social Security Disability Insurance program is projected to pay out approximately $133 billion in benefits in 2020. And with new applicants each year, the system is expected to exhaust its reserves at the end of 2035 if changes...

Thursday, October 8, 2020

It should come as no surprise to hear the economy is the top issue for voters in the 2020 election. Nearly 8 in 10 voters say that the economy will be very important to them when they cast their votes.1 But when voters say...

Tuesday, October 6, 2020

When training to become a financial professional, much of our course work centers on the six critical areas of creating a financial strategy. Some recognize October as Financial Planning Month, so it's an excellent opportunity to...

Friday, October 2, 2020

Term insurance is the simplest form of life insurance. It provides temporary life insurance protection on a limited budget. Here’s how it works: When a policyholder buys term insurance, they buy coverage for a specific period of...

Tuesday, September 29, 2020

Due to COVID-19, Americans are spending more time at home than ever before, leading to a record amount of spending on home improvement.1It’s not that big of a surprise since many Americans now find their homes are doing triple...

Friday, September 25, 2020

Tax-Loss Harvesting A useful year-end move to counteract capital gains. Even though this may end up being a subpar year for stocks, you may realize capital gains, which is a taxable event. What can you do about them? You can do what...

Tuesday, September 22, 2020

In our uncertain climate, it’s unsurprising that when American investors are thinking about their financial strategy, that the topic of life insurance comes up. For some, it’s always been front of mind. For younger...

Tuesday, September 15, 2020

If your family relies on your income, it’s critical to consider having enough life insurance to provide for them after you pass away. But too often, life insurance is an overlooked aspect of personal finances. In fact, according...

Thursday, September 10, 2020

We invite you to check out the new issue of Eye On Money! Inside are articles on: 529 education savings plans. Do not miss this one if you want to help your child, grandchild, or other loved one save for college! When to review your...

Wednesday, September 9, 2020

The Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA), one of the most widely followed stock market indices, has made some key changes to its starting lineup.Salesforce.com, Amgen Inc.and Honeywell International Inc. have replaced Exxon Mobil Corp....

Wednesday, August 26, 2020

You can sum up the appeal of a Roth IRA in three words: federal tax benefit. Potential earnings in a Roth IRA grow tax-free as long as the owner abides by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) rules, and withdrawals are federally tax-free...