If there’s one word that aptly describes stock prices so far this year, that word is volatility. And, as today’s article points out, “ those saving for and those living in retirement are becoming increasingly fearful of putting their life savings at risk in markets that fall and rise as they have this year.” But is this fear warranted? The…
Looking for a better way to keep track of whether you are saving enough to retire? Today’s article may help in that regard, outlining “a more nuanced set of guidelines” offered up by JPMorgan. Here’s what the author has to say: “The aim is to help you track your progress in a way that reflects how much you will need…
“They don’t have a clue.” This is what one certified financial planner and investment advisor declares in today’s article about people planning for taxes in retirement. In light of the fact that hefty tax bills in retirement can dramatically increase the odds of retirees – even those who saved prudently – running out of money, the author goes on to…
“Many people use retirement calculators to estimate whether they’re on track, but even the best calculator is subject to the universal rule of computer programs – garbage in, garbage out.” Today’s article outlines several common mistakes people make when assessing their financial preparedness for retirement that might produce a deceptively rosy picture of how on-track they are. By how much…
“We like to think it’s things beyond our control – job layoffs, market downturns, big unanticipated expenses – that undermine our planning efforts and make achieving a secure retirement such a challenge. But the truth is we often inflict the most serious damage on our own by deluding ourselves into believing we’re making reasonable decisions when we’re not.” Today’s article…
Aiming for an early retirement? You might want to reconsider. Today’s article outlines the findings of an Oregon State University study, which indicate that retiring after age 65 may help lengthen one’s life: “The risk of dying from any cause over the study period was 11% lower among people who delayed retirement for one year – until age 66 –…
Confidence among baby boomers about their financial preparedness for retirement is sinking fast! Today’s article highlights the findings of the recent “Insured Retirement Institute’s (IRI) 6th Annual Report on The Retirement Preparedness of the Boomer Generation”, which shows that “Americans today are less prepared and less confident about their prospects for a comfortable retirement than ever before.” Two of the…
While the new “fiduciary standard” promises to help lower costs for retirement investors, how much of an impact does a modest fee reduction have on retirement readiness compared to actions that investors can take on their own such as delaying Social Security benefits or choosing more powerful investments? Today’s article puts this question to Tom Kmak, CEO of Fiduciary Benchmarks,…
“Wall Street is in love with dividend stocks — maybe too much in love. In fact, dividend-paying stocks have performed so well in 2016 that many are starting to look pricey. That means that retirees, in particular, need to be careful about which dividend payers they’re buying if they’re trying to both protect and grow their nest egg.” Today’s article…
“Working after retirement may be an oxymoron, but it’s a trend that continues to gain steam… While financial concerns are often the motivator, for many retirees the decision to pursue an encore career is more about passion than paycheck.” Today’s article outlines several dos and don’ts for those looking to pursue an “encore career” in retirement. Do? Focus on certain…