What is a Safe Harbor 401(k) Plan? A Safe Harbor 401(k) plan is a type of retirement plan that helps employers meet IRS nondiscrimination requirements. These plans require the employer to contribute to employees’ 401(k) accounts, which can help employees save more for retirement and ensure the plan benefits all employees, not just those with […]
Safe Harbor 401(k) Explained: 2024 Guide for Business Owners Read More »
Election years are known for increased market volatility and generally lower stock returns due to the uncertainty elections bring. Historically, the S&P 500’s average return during election years has been 6.2%, compared to 9.6% in non-election years. Volatility is also higher, averaging 16.5% in election years versus 15.3% in non-election years. Since 1980, the average
Election Insights 2024: Navigating Market Volatility and Opportunities Read More »
In 1973, car radiophones were the only mobile phones available. Fearing AT&T would dominate the market, Motorola had engineer Marty Cooper create a groundbreaking product. Marty asked, “Why call a place when you want to talk to a person?” His question led to the portable mobile phone, now used by 97% of Americans. Just like
A Simplified Guide to Planning Your Social Security Read More »
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) recently extended relief for certain beneficiaries regarding required minimum distributions (RMDs) through 2024. Notice 2024-35, released on April 16, 2024, provides an extension of existing relief for beneficiaries taking RMDs over a 10-year period following the death of a participant or IRA owner who had already begun RMDs. This extension
IRS Further Extends RMD Relief through 2024 Read More »
The SECURE 2.0 Act of 2022 was enacted on December 29, 2022, and introduces major changes to 401(k) plans, particularly those sponsored by small businesses. The law is designed to increase retirement plan coverage, enhance savings, and simplify existing rules. Employers need to familiarize themselves with the new provisions to ensure their 401(k) plans comply
Secure 2.0 – Summary Changes 2024 Read More »
In 2024, U.S. large cap stocks had a strong start, jumping by 10.6% according to the S&P 500 index. This surge came after a solid performance in the previous quarter. While most major regions saw gains in equities, U.S. stocks continued to lead the pack. Japan was the only market to surpass the U.S., with
1Q2024 Market Overview – Sustained U.S. Distinction Read More »
Historically, stocks and bonds have shown solid performance during periods when interest rates were above 4%. Key Takeaways: After over a decade of ultra-low interest rates, adjusting to higher rates has been a challenge. However, these “high” rates are actually a return to historical norms: Rates above 4% were common prior to 2008. Historically, higher
Avoid Letting Interest Rates Determine Your Investment Strategy Read More »
