In today’s hyper-competitive environment, delivering an institutional-caliber portfolio isn’t just table stakes – it’s a fiduciary mandate that exceeds the scope of an individual advisor. Here is a checklist to help advisors evaluate whether their current approaches align with institutional best practices.
Whenever political questions arise, we always encourage a broader view: politicians don’t control the economy, and policy changes rarely move markets. But the past month has raised serious questions over that assertion.
With a name reflecting its expertise in smart indexing, Indexperts is carving out a balanced strategy that recognizes market realities.
This week, and according to many, Federal Reserve (Fed) officials jumped onto the uncertainty bandwagon, along with consumers and businesses, waiting for more policy clarity from the Trump administration – and who could blame them with policies in daily flux?
When breakthroughs occur, researchers get the lion’s share of the credit. But they owe a big debt of gratitude to those who collect and organize the data with which insight is manufactured.
The sense of gloom on Wall Street is putting pressure on some of the most committed backers of American exceptionalism: South Korea’s risk-seeking retail investors.
The theme among so many writers seems to be “vibe shift.” And indeed, there is a concern the economy is slowing and may even be in a recession.
Congress managed to avoid a government shutdown, but Democrats are divided on strategy.
Receiving an unexpected gift or inheritance is something that people may dream about. Our Bill Cass discusses some key considerations if that dream becomes reality and you do receive a financial windfall.
In this week’s edition, we shift our focus to another critical segment of the ABS market: those tied to consumer loans, such as credit cards and auto loans.
Times have changed. Emails used to be read because information was valued. Now emails are ignored and even seen as a nuisance. Free information is everywhere, and it’s no longer trusted.
Two Sessions, or Lianghui, is the popular name for the annual meeting of China’s top legislative and consultative bodies. These gatherings are closely watched by overseas observers as they provide key insight into China’s political landscape, economic priorities and overall policy direction.
Customization is an integral part of direct indexing. The technology behind it can make or break the experience for clients and advisors alike. We dive into the features and functions that make the best tools.
Head of research at VettaFi, Todd Rosenbluth interviews Neil Bage, the co-founder of Shaping Wealth about his upcoming workshop "Building a human-centric wealth culture" at the Exchange conference.
Although annuities can offer a guaranteed income stream in retirement, they come with significant risks and complexities. It's essential to thoroughly understand these products and consider whether they align with your financial goals and risk tolerance.
I often encounter individuals struggling with financial stress – whether it's saving for retirement, building an emergency fund, or paying down debt. To better understand these concerns, Barnum conducted a comprehensive study on the financial wellness of working Americans.
The wealth industry could be headed into an era of accelerated innovation, as advisory firms shift from zero to full speed ahead with artificial intelligence.
Policies to support mainstream crypto adoption are underway.
Markets have been overwhelmed lately by the administration’s fast-paced and, many times, highly uncertain tariff measures.
It took just 16 trading sessions for US stocks to tumble into a correction, leaving a frazzled Wall Street asking just how long the “adjustment period” White House officials have warned about will last.
The 60/40 portfolio, where 60% is invested in stocks and 40% in bonds, is the initial starting point for many portfolios. The exact asset mix is often adjusted based on an investor’s time horizon, risk tolerance, and financial goals, but the simple, proportional stock-bond combination is what is often considered a “balanced” portfolio.
In today’s rapidly evolving financial landscape, advisors are expected to be more than just portfolio managers. Clients don’t just want investment recommendations—they seek a trusted partner who understands their financial needs, offers strategic guidance and provides peace of mind during turbulent times.
Our monthly workforce recovery analysis has been updated to include the latest employment report for February. The unemployment rate inched up to 4.1%. Additionally, the number of new non-farm jobs (a relatively volatile number subject to extensive revisions) came in at 151,000.
Navigating tax season can be even more confusing when facing the range of rules around IRA withdrawals, 529 plan distributions, and charitable deductions. Our Bill Cass details some common questions around tax filing.
Most of us associate 529 accounts with college savings. They’re flexible, allowing you to transfer assets to anyone, including yourself, for the express purpose of furthering the education of your beneficiary. But did you know that a 529 can be a powerful estate planning tool?
Germany is newly motivated to reconsider its fiscal restraint.
Short-term deadlines will complicate long-run plans.
Modern direct indexing tools, using sophisticated technology, can identify tax loss opportunities on a daily or even minute-by-minute basis. As time progresses, I believe more advisors will see the potential of direct indexing.
At the start of the year, our Investment Strategy Committee outlook was positive for both the economy and the equity market, supported by strong consumer, labor market, and corporate fundamentals.
Trade policy clarity is a long way off.
Investor’s bearish sentiment has surged to levels that generally align with previous market corrections and crashes.
The PPA has made a mistake in designating an MA as a QDIA. Perhaps the drafters of the PPA were thinking about accounts that are actually managed, but those participants do not default, so that flavor of MA is not a QDIA, and is typically reserved for executives of the sponsoring firm.
On March 4, 2025, the Trump administration imposed tariffs of 25% on Canada and Mexico and increased tariffs on Chinese imports to 20% from the previous 10% imposed earlier in the year.
On the latest Road to Exchange, VettaFi Head of Research Todd Rosenbluth interviewed Michael Durso, CEO of ShoreHaven Wealth Partners.
During February, Advisor Perspectives featured a number of quality articles on topics near and dear to the advisory community.
Cambria Investments CIO and founder Meb Faber explores David Swensen’s legendary investment strategy at Yale’s endowment, comparing its long-term performance to traditional portfolios and examining whether individual investors can replicate its success.
As the debate heats up on Capitol Hill about extending the TCJA, there are several issues to watch including potential SALT cap relief and whether more tax cuts will be added to the final bill.
Many ASEAN members punch above their economic weight in international trade. But their power may also make them targets in the mounting global trade battle.
High fiscal deficits from tax cuts and tariffs raised concerns about inflation. However, markets have since shifted their focus.
Imagine having a reliable, automated system that consistently brings high-quality leads to you – without the need for constant hustle.
In this primer we define small cap growth funds, provide practical suggestions on how to invest in them, and explain why we believe they are a strategically important asset class.
Differing sales tax regimes can appear unfair.
Ultra-wealthy investors have unique needs and goals. While a typical high net worth client is focused on the next dozen years, these more deep-pocketed clients – like their institutional counterparts – have a much longer time horizon.
Many major stocks connected to artificial intelligence have lost their luster of late, but perhaps none more so than Microsoft Corp.
We wrote in last month's letter that the U.S. stock market had to meet lofty earnings expectations to maintain its strong performance relative to global benchmarks, while the latter had a lower bar because of considerably cheaper valuation multiples and higher dividend yields.
Eggs add to perceptions of high inflation.
We understand that in the business world the word ‘monetization’ of a service a company provides has become one of the most important words as, if successful, this monetization increases the valuation of that company’s stock price.
By acknowledging that we are not always rational and are subject to cognitive biases, we can better understand market anomalies and develop strategies to mitigate – and even take advantage of – their impact.
Today we are going to revisit that matrix updated through 2024. We will see what we got right and wrong, what further inferences we can now make and why I think it confirms my general shift in market strategy over the past few years.
Starting in 2025, many non-spouse beneficiaries of inherited retirement accounts must begin taking annual minimum distributions. Our Bill Cass details several strategies and explains why it’s important to seek advice.
Many independent firms and Registered Investment Advisors aspire to move upmarket, targeting wealthier clients who demand more sophisticated financial solutions.
Looming U.S. and global policy shifts may potentially rattle markets, but a tactical and flexible approach could help investors navigate risks and opportunities regardless of how events play out.
Personal income (excluding transfer receipts) rose 0.7% in January and is up 4.0% year-over-year. However, when adjusted for inflation using the BEA's PCE Price Index, real personal income (excluding transfer receipts) was up 0.4% month-over-month and up 1.5% year-over-year.
An aggressive U.S. tariff regime will come down hard on major economies.
The overall size of the municipal bond market is over $4 trillion. While this a very large market, an investor’s personal situation combined with the nuances of the municipal bond market can sometimes make it feel much smaller.
The economy can grow through policy changes.
Nvidia Corp.’s earnings are set to dictate whether artificial intelligence can regain its status as the key driver behind Wall Street gains — or trigger more weakness after the Magnificent Seven group of technology stocks fell into correction territory.
The truth is that most of your prospects have some kind of financial problem or issue. Otherwise, they wouldn’t agree to meet with you. Their lack of commitment to you at the end of your process is not necessarily because they're an unqualified lead.
In today’s competitive landscape, a training program may be crucial to help advisors master retirement plans and excel in client engagement. Training builds a knowledgeable, adaptable and trustworthy team.
Tax season can be stressful, but with the right approach, advisors can turn it into an opportunity.
The greatest benefits of TCJA were deep in its details.
In this post we attempt to demystify the mechanics and implications behind why the Fed is considering pausing its QT program.
Overall, it is a system deeply rooted in familial interdependence. The responsibility for widows rests squarely with family members, reflecting a culture where support networks are built on kinship rather than institutional safety nets.
At this time of year, those of us who live in the Northern hemisphere are looking forward to a change of season. Statistically, every February week in Chicago should see the daily high temperature rise by 2-3 degrees Fahrenheit, but conditions can vary significantly from expectations.
The managed account industry has seen tremendous growth and client adoption, with assets increasing by 28% over the last year and 50% over the past two years.
Back in May of 2024, we wrote a weekly commentary called: “We Can’t Import Cheap Homes; But We Could Import Cheap EV Cars.” In that weekly we argued that since the U.S. auto industry, does not want to build small cars because it is not competitive, then we should open the lower-end EV automobile industry to imports from China.
Chief Investment Officer of Global Asset Allocation, Anwiti Bahuguna, Ph.D., outlines the investment themes and return expectations from our new 10-year outlook.
Europe has real risks and real bargaining tools in a trade confrontation.
Consider estate planning strategies to minimize the impact of taxes on your estate. Our Bill Cass highlights several key actions including document reviews, naming beneficiaries and the use of 529 college savings plans to enhance tax efficiency.
VettaFi Senior Industry Analyst Kirsten Chang interviewed legendary advisor Jeff Concepcion for the latest installment of Road to Exchange.
There are many media-driven narratives about the impact of tariffs on the economy and the markets. Most of them are incredibly bearish, predicting the absolute worst possible outcomes.
U.S. dependence on metal imports could prove costly.
The number one question we hear from advisors is: “How can I differentiate my business so I stand out from others, given that the industry continues to become commoditized."
An escalation seems more likely than diffusion in the U.S.-China trade battle.
The Exchange conference is right around the corner, starting March 23 in Las Vegas. VettaFi Senior Industry Analyst Kirsten Chang interviewed legendary advisor Jeff Concepcion for the latest installment of Road to Exchange. Concepcion is the founder and CEO of Stratos Wealth Partners. For seven years running he has been on Barron’s Top 100 RIA’s list.
For many of us, the Die Broke mentality is not about recklessness or extravagance. It’s about learning to let go. Despite our bold talk of spending down to the last penny, most of us will likely leave behind more than we planned. And maybe that’s just fine.
Many boomers are business owners who are selling their businesses. This article provides guidance for these retiring business owners, their heirs and their advisors. This article also discusses opportunities for investors to capitalize on this once-in-a-lifetime mass exodus of baby boomer business owners.
We are about to enter a new era – the era of the personal defined benefit pension. And I predict that over the next few years, it will be RIAs that deliver these personal plans to millions of Americans. Before I explain how this transformation will unfold, let me first explain why it must unfold.
Tariff concerns are not only affecting inflation expectations but also Americans’ consumption patterns.
Our research shows how artificial intelligence can potentially enhance performance of equity investing.
As we enter Valentine’s Day weekend, financial infidelity isn’t exactly a topic that exudes romance. But lovebirds who don’t make the discussion a foundational piece of their relationship risk adding avoidable strain on their union.
Investors in America’s biggest company are increasingly focused on China, where Apple Inc. is striving to win over a crucial customer base while also facing tariff-related risks.
US wholesale prices rose in January by more than forecast on higher food and energy costs, highlighting only limited progress on inflation ahead of tariffs imposed by the Trump administration.
A closer look at the broader landscape reveals why the United States remains positioned to pursue a strategy of tariffs.
For 2025 tax planning, our Bill Cass shares income tax planning strategies that can help manage current tax bills and prepare for future changes. Here are the highlights.
The professional development journey for financial professionals is best approached through a structured three-step process involving foundational designations, advanced level specializations, and niche market concentrations.
Over the weekend, President Trump announced tariffs of 25% on both Canada and Mexico, as well as a 10% tariff on China.
Tariff threats offer a glimpse of what is in store.
Wealth Management
Constructing a Contemporary Portfolio to Make Capital Markets Work Harder for You
In today’s hyper-competitive environment, delivering an institutional-caliber portfolio isn’t just table stakes – it’s a fiduciary mandate that exceeds the scope of an individual advisor. Here is a checklist to help advisors evaluate whether their current approaches align with institutional best practices.
US Economic Outlook: Path Dependent
Whenever political questions arise, we always encourage a broader view: politicians don’t control the economy, and policy changes rarely move markets. But the past month has raised serious questions over that assertion.
Indexperts’ Balanced Strategy for Today's Landscape
With a name reflecting its expertise in smart indexing, Indexperts is carving out a balanced strategy that recognizes market realities.
The Federal Reserve: Waiting for More Policy Clarity
This week, and according to many, Federal Reserve (Fed) officials jumped onto the uncertainty bandwagon, along with consumers and businesses, waiting for more policy clarity from the Trump administration – and who could blame them with policies in daily flux?
Sustaining Economic Statistics
When breakthroughs occur, researchers get the lion’s share of the credit. But they owe a big debt of gratitude to those who collect and organize the data with which insight is manufactured.
US Tech Rout Fuels Wild Bets From Korean Retail Investors
The sense of gloom on Wall Street is putting pressure on some of the most committed backers of American exceptionalism: South Korea’s risk-seeking retail investors.
The Inflationista Illuminati, Part 2
The theme among so many writers seems to be “vibe shift.” And indeed, there is a concern the economy is slowing and may even be in a recession.
Washington: What to Watch Now
Congress managed to avoid a government shutdown, but Democrats are divided on strategy.
Your Ship Finally Came In. Now What?
Receiving an unexpected gift or inheritance is something that people may dream about. Our Bill Cass discusses some key considerations if that dream becomes reality and you do receive a financial windfall.
Peering Under the Hood of Auto and Credit Card ABS: Insights into US Consumer Resilience
In this week’s edition, we shift our focus to another critical segment of the ABS market: those tied to consumer loans, such as credit cards and auto loans.
Email – Where Your Sale Goes to Die
Times have changed. Emails used to be read because information was valued. Now emails are ignored and even seen as a nuisance. Free information is everywhere, and it’s no longer trusted.
China Stimulus: Better Luck Next Year
Two Sessions, or Lianghui, is the popular name for the annual meeting of China’s top legislative and consultative bodies. These gatherings are closely watched by overseas observers as they provide key insight into China’s political landscape, economic priorities and overall policy direction.
How to Put the Power of Direct Indexing at Your Fingertips
Customization is an integral part of direct indexing. The technology behind it can make or break the experience for clients and advisors alike. We dive into the features and functions that make the best tools.
The Road to Exchange: Featuring Neil Bage
Head of research at VettaFi, Todd Rosenbluth interviews Neil Bage, the co-founder of Shaping Wealth about his upcoming workshop "Building a human-centric wealth culture" at the Exchange conference.
Are Annuities Right for Retirement?
Although annuities can offer a guaranteed income stream in retirement, they come with significant risks and complexities. It's essential to thoroughly understand these products and consider whether they align with your financial goals and risk tolerance.
Empowering Clients Through Financial Guidance
I often encounter individuals struggling with financial stress – whether it's saving for retirement, building an emergency fund, or paying down debt. To better understand these concerns, Barnum conducted a comprehensive study on the financial wellness of working Americans.
The AI Race in Wealth Management is About to Speed Up
The wealth industry could be headed into an era of accelerated innovation, as advisory firms shift from zero to full speed ahead with artificial intelligence.
Spreading Stablecoins
Policies to support mainstream crypto adoption are underway.
Tariffs Noise Hides Positive Inflation Developments
Markets have been overwhelmed lately by the administration’s fast-paced and, many times, highly uncertain tariff measures.
Sustaining Economic Statistics
When breakthroughs occur, researchers get the lion’s share of the credit. But they owe a big debt of gratitude to those who collect and organize the data with which insight is manufactured.
US Stocks Face Uneven Recovery From Tariff-Triggered Correction
It took just 16 trading sessions for US stocks to tumble into a correction, leaving a frazzled Wall Street asking just how long the “adjustment period” White House officials have warned about will last.
Rebuilding Resilience in 60/40 Portfolios
The 60/40 portfolio, where 60% is invested in stocks and 40% in bonds, is the initial starting point for many portfolios. The exact asset mix is often adjusted based on an investor’s time horizon, risk tolerance, and financial goals, but the simple, proportional stock-bond combination is what is often considered a “balanced” portfolio.
Becoming Your Client’s Financial MD: A New Advisory Mindset
In today’s rapidly evolving financial landscape, advisors are expected to be more than just portfolio managers. Clients don’t just want investment recommendations—they seek a trusted partner who understands their financial needs, offers strategic guidance and provides peace of mind during turbulent times.
U.S. Workforce Recovery Analysis: February 2025
Our monthly workforce recovery analysis has been updated to include the latest employment report for February. The unemployment rate inched up to 4.1%. Additionally, the number of new non-farm jobs (a relatively volatile number subject to extensive revisions) came in at 151,000.
Seeking Clarity at Tax Season: Tackling Common Confusions
Navigating tax season can be even more confusing when facing the range of rules around IRA withdrawals, 529 plan distributions, and charitable deductions. Our Bill Cass details some common questions around tax filing.
529s Are More Than a College Savings Tool
Most of us associate 529 accounts with college savings. They’re flexible, allowing you to transfer assets to anyone, including yourself, for the express purpose of furthering the education of your beneficiary. But did you know that a 529 can be a powerful estate planning tool?
Germany’s New Deal
Germany is newly motivated to reconsider its fiscal restraint.
The U.S. Fiscal State of Play
Short-term deadlines will complicate long-run plans.
Still Working the Night Shift
Modern direct indexing tools, using sophisticated technology, can identify tax loss opportunities on a daily or even minute-by-minute basis. As time progresses, I believe more advisors will see the potential of direct indexing.
Revisiting Direct Indexing in 2025
Modern direct indexing tools, using sophisticated technology, can identify tax loss opportunities on a daily or even minute-by-minute basis. As time progresses, I believe more advisors will see the potential of direct indexing.
Despite Recent Volatility, We Maintain Our Constructive Outlook
At the start of the year, our Investment Strategy Committee outlook was positive for both the economy and the equity market, supported by strong consumer, labor market, and corporate fundamentals.
A Frenzied Week for Tariffs
Trade policy clarity is a long way off.
Bearish Sentiment Surges As If The Market Just Crashed
Investor’s bearish sentiment has surged to levels that generally align with previous market corrections and crashes.
Managed Account Is a Misnomer When it Comes to QDIAs
The PPA has made a mistake in designating an MA as a QDIA. Perhaps the drafters of the PPA were thinking about accounts that are actually managed, but those participants do not default, so that flavor of MA is not a QDIA, and is typically reserved for executives of the sponsoring firm.
Let the (Trade) War Begin, or Not: Uncertainty Is a Risk to Economic Activity
On March 4, 2025, the Trump administration imposed tariffs of 25% on Canada and Mexico and increased tariffs on Chinese imports to 20% from the previous 10% imposed earlier in the year.
The Road to Exchange: Featuring Michael Durso of ShoreHaven Wealth Partners
On the latest Road to Exchange, VettaFi Head of Research Todd Rosenbluth interviewed Michael Durso, CEO of ShoreHaven Wealth Partners.
February Featured Articles on Bitcoin, Tax-Loss Harvesting & More
During February, Advisor Perspectives featured a number of quality articles on topics near and dear to the advisory community.
Can We All Invest Like Yale?
Cambria Investments CIO and founder Meb Faber explores David Swensen’s legendary investment strategy at Yale’s endowment, comparing its long-term performance to traditional portfolios and examining whether individual investors can replicate its success.
Tax Policy Takes Center Stage: What to Watch on Capitol Hill
As the debate heats up on Capitol Hill about extending the TCJA, there are several issues to watch including potential SALT cap relief and whether more tax cuts will be added to the final bill.
Southeast Asia Tries To Preserve Trade
Many ASEAN members punch above their economic weight in international trade. But their power may also make them targets in the mounting global trade battle.
Growth Concerns Shift Stock and Bond Correlation
High fiscal deficits from tax cuts and tariffs raised concerns about inflation. However, markets have since shifted their focus.
Why Creating an Inbound Demand Lead System Matters
Imagine having a reliable, automated system that consistently brings high-quality leads to you – without the need for constant hustle.
What is a Small Cap Growth Fund?
In this primer we define small cap growth funds, provide practical suggestions on how to invest in them, and explain why we believe they are a strategically important asset class.
Value-Added Taxes
Differing sales tax regimes can appear unfair.
Why Ultra-Wealthy Investors Can – and Should – Invest Like an Institution
Ultra-wealthy investors have unique needs and goals. While a typical high net worth client is focused on the next dozen years, these more deep-pocketed clients – like their institutional counterparts – have a much longer time horizon.
Microsoft’s Fading AI Mojo Keeps Shares in Lengthy Purgatory
Many major stocks connected to artificial intelligence have lost their luster of late, but perhaps none more so than Microsoft Corp.
QuantStreet March 2025 Letter: Geopolitics
We wrote in last month's letter that the U.S. stock market had to meet lofty earnings expectations to maintain its strong performance relative to global benchmarks, while the latter had a lower bar because of considerably cheaper valuation multiples and higher dividend yields.
Which Came First: Inflation or the Egg?
Eggs add to perceptions of high inflation.
Monetizing Federal Assets? A Potentially Bad Idea!
We understand that in the business world the word ‘monetization’ of a service a company provides has become one of the most important words as, if successful, this monetization increases the valuation of that company’s stock price.
Behavioral Economics: Managing Your Inner Voice
By acknowledging that we are not always rational and are subject to cognitive biases, we can better understand market anomalies and develop strategies to mitigate – and even take advantage of – their impact.
The Bull’s Eye Matrix: Updated
Today we are going to revisit that matrix updated through 2024. We will see what we got right and wrong, what further inferences we can now make and why I think it confirms my general shift in market strategy over the past few years.
Heirs Must Act on Inherited Retirement Accounts This Year
Starting in 2025, many non-spouse beneficiaries of inherited retirement accounts must begin taking annual minimum distributions. Our Bill Cass details several strategies and explains why it’s important to seek advice.
Real Talk With Rias: Considering Moving Upmarket? Here Are Some Issues to Consider
Many independent firms and Registered Investment Advisors aspire to move upmarket, targeting wealthier clients who demand more sophisticated financial solutions.
Two Policy Risks in the Spotlight
Looming U.S. and global policy shifts may potentially rattle markets, but a tactical and flexible approach could help investors navigate risks and opportunities regardless of how events play out.
The Big Four Recession Indicators: Real Personal Income Up 0.4% in January
Personal income (excluding transfer receipts) rose 0.7% in January and is up 4.0% year-over-year. However, when adjusted for inflation using the BEA's PCE Price Index, real personal income (excluding transfer receipts) was up 0.4% month-over-month and up 1.5% year-over-year.
Tariff-fied
An aggressive U.S. tariff regime will come down hard on major economies.
Snapshot of the Municipal Bond Landscape
The overall size of the municipal bond market is over $4 trillion. While this a very large market, an investor’s personal situation combined with the nuances of the municipal bond market can sometimes make it feel much smaller.
Long and Variable Lags
The economy can grow through policy changes.
Nvidia’s Shaken Aura of Invincibility Is Set for Earnings Test
Nvidia Corp.’s earnings are set to dictate whether artificial intelligence can regain its status as the key driver behind Wall Street gains — or trigger more weakness after the Magnificent Seven group of technology stocks fell into correction territory.
You Don’t Need More Leads to Get More Clients
The truth is that most of your prospects have some kind of financial problem or issue. Otherwise, they wouldn’t agree to meet with you. Their lack of commitment to you at the end of your process is not necessarily because they're an unqualified lead.
Empowering Financial Advisors: Training and Retaining Talent in Retirement Plan Practices
In today’s competitive landscape, a training program may be crucial to help advisors master retirement plans and excel in client engagement. Training builds a knowledgeable, adaptable and trustworthy team.
How Advisors Can Turn Tax Season Into a Strategic Advantage by Reviewing Their Clients’ 1099 Forms
Tax season can be stressful, but with the right approach, advisors can turn it into an opportunity.
Looking Back on the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act
The greatest benefits of TCJA were deep in its details.
Why Would the Fed Pause QT?
In this post we attempt to demystify the mechanics and implications behind why the Fed is considering pausing its QT program.
Can One-Eighth of an Inheritance Be Enough? A Lesson from Jordan
Overall, it is a system deeply rooted in familial interdependence. The responsibility for widows rests squarely with family members, reflecting a culture where support networks are built on kinship rather than institutional safety nets.
Seasonal Challenges With Economic Data
At this time of year, those of us who live in the Northern hemisphere are looking forward to a change of season. Statistically, every February week in Chicago should see the daily high temperature rise by 2-3 degrees Fahrenheit, but conditions can vary significantly from expectations.
Bond Ladders: Unlocking Direct Indexing Opportunities in Fixed Income
The managed account industry has seen tremendous growth and client adoption, with assets increasing by 28% over the last year and 50% over the past two years.
Tariffs Make Industries Less Competitive
Back in May of 2024, we wrote a weekly commentary called: “We Can’t Import Cheap Homes; But We Could Import Cheap EV Cars.” In that weekly we argued that since the U.S. auto industry, does not want to build small cars because it is not competitive, then we should open the lower-end EV automobile industry to imports from China.
Capital Market Assumptions: 10-Year Outlook
Chief Investment Officer of Global Asset Allocation, Anwiti Bahuguna, Ph.D., outlines the investment themes and return expectations from our new 10-year outlook.
A New Transatlantic Trade War Looms
Europe has real risks and real bargaining tools in a trade confrontation.
Five Estate Planning Ideas for 2025
Consider estate planning strategies to minimize the impact of taxes on your estate. Our Bill Cass highlights several key actions including document reviews, naming beneficiaries and the use of 529 college savings plans to enhance tax efficiency.
Road to Exchange: Jeff Concepcion
VettaFi Senior Industry Analyst Kirsten Chang interviewed legendary advisor Jeff Concepcion for the latest installment of Road to Exchange.
The Impact Of Tariffs Is Not As Bearish As Predicted
There are many media-driven narratives about the impact of tariffs on the economy and the markets. Most of them are incredibly bearish, predicting the absolute worst possible outcomes.
The Return of Steel and Aluminum Tariffs
U.S. dependence on metal imports could prove costly.
Stop Being 1 of Many
The number one question we hear from advisors is: “How can I differentiate my business so I stand out from others, given that the industry continues to become commoditized."
China and the U.S. Trade…Tariffs
An escalation seems more likely than diffusion in the U.S.-China trade battle.
The Road to Exchange: Featuring Jeff Concepcion of Stratos Wealth Partners
The Exchange conference is right around the corner, starting March 23 in Las Vegas. VettaFi Senior Industry Analyst Kirsten Chang interviewed legendary advisor Jeff Concepcion for the latest installment of Road to Exchange. Concepcion is the founder and CEO of Stratos Wealth Partners. For seven years running he has been on Barron’s Top 100 RIA’s list.
Frugality or Spending Freely? The Dying Broke Dilemma
For many of us, the Die Broke mentality is not about recklessness or extravagance. It’s about learning to let go. Despite our bold talk of spending down to the last penny, most of us will likely leave behind more than we planned. And maybe that’s just fine.
Your Millennial Clients Could See Opportunities as Your Boomer Clients Sell Businesses
Many boomers are business owners who are selling their businesses. This article provides guidance for these retiring business owners, their heirs and their advisors. This article also discusses opportunities for investors to capitalize on this once-in-a-lifetime mass exodus of baby boomer business owners.
How RIAs Could Help Solve America’s Retirement Income Crisis
We are about to enter a new era – the era of the personal defined benefit pension. And I predict that over the next few years, it will be RIAs that deliver these personal plans to millions of Americans. Before I explain how this transformation will unfold, let me first explain why it must unfold.
Pulled Pork, Pulled Sales and Winter Wonderland
Tariff concerns are not only affecting inflation expectations but also Americans’ consumption patterns.
Exploiting the Benefits of Artificial Intelligence for Factor Investors
Our research shows how artificial intelligence can potentially enhance performance of equity investing.
Don’t Let Your Love Story End With Financial Infidelity
As we enter Valentine’s Day weekend, financial infidelity isn’t exactly a topic that exudes romance. But lovebirds who don’t make the discussion a foundational piece of their relationship risk adding avoidable strain on their union.
Apple’s Stock-Market Performance Is Increasingly Made in China
Investors in America’s biggest company are increasingly focused on China, where Apple Inc. is striving to win over a crucial customer base while also facing tariff-related risks.
US Wholesale Inflation Tops Estimates on Food, Energy Prices
US wholesale prices rose in January by more than forecast on higher food and energy costs, highlighting only limited progress on inflation ahead of tariffs imposed by the Trump administration.
The Power of Trade: Why the U.S. Uses Tariffs as a Negotiation Tool
A closer look at the broader landscape reveals why the United States remains positioned to pursue a strategy of tariffs.
Key Planning Ideas to Maximize Your 2025 Tax Savings
For 2025 tax planning, our Bill Cass shares income tax planning strategies that can help manage current tax bills and prepare for future changes. Here are the highlights.
The Benefits of Designations for Financial Professionals: A Three Step Approach
The professional development journey for financial professionals is best approached through a structured three-step process involving foundational designations, advanced level specializations, and niche market concentrations.
Tariffs Roil Markets
Over the weekend, President Trump announced tariffs of 25% on both Canada and Mexico, as well as a 10% tariff on China.
Twists and Turns of Tariffs
Tariff threats offer a glimpse of what is in store.