Wealth and Wisdom: Week of April 21, 2025
- Mike Brown
- Apr 21
- 4 min read
Political turmoil and market volatility have made it nearly impossible for investors to maintain their long-term focus lately. But can you imagine what it must be like for people who are planning to retire this year? Or for someone just entering retirement? We have a couple of articles addressing their dilemma this week – as well as some insight on what might be ahead for the U.S. economy.
This is also an opportune time to let you know that we have posted a new, seven-part podcast series on our Help Me Retire educational website to help you plan for a smoother transition. Each episode focuses on a different step in the process we use with our clients – from creating your vision of a productive retirement (Episode 12) to creating your legacy (Episode 18). I also teach this process for St. Louis Community College’s Continuing Education program in a three-night class. Our next session starts June 4. Register here.
I’m taking a quick breather – your next issue of Wealth and Wisdom will arrive in your inbox on Monday, May 5.
Foreign investors are dumping U.S. Treasuries – and America’s reputation as a safe haven in times of financial trouble is now in jeopardy. (Reading time: 3 minutes)
Our chief economist believes the best way to solve trade imbalance with other countries begins by fixing our own fiscal problems here at home. (Reading time: 5 minutes)
Some folks believe the U.S. economy is heading toward a slowdown. Here’s what that might mean for stock investors. (Reading time: 3 minutes)
If you’re committed to a retirement date in the near future, take these extra steps to make sure all your bases are covered. (Reading time: 4 minutes)
Then you’ve got some decisions to make as well – ranging from how much you’re spending to where that money is coming from. (Reading time: 6 minutes)
We’ve gotten some encouraging news on inflation in recent weeks – but several items haven’t gone up much in price in the first place. (Reading time: 4 minutes)
Now that tax season is behind us, see how your tax rate compares with everyone else’s. (Reading time: 2 minutes)
Try your hand at solving the Social Security system with this interactive online calculator – and please hurry! (Reading time: 2 minutes)
Today’s chaotic financial retirement is putting investors under extra pressure. Keep an eye out for these potential pitfalls. (Reading time: 6 minutes)
Stock buybacks are in vogue, especially at today’s lower prices. Is that a good thing for other investors? (Reading time: 5 minutes)
Words to the Wise
“The whole problem with the world is that fools and fanatics are always so certain of themselves, and wiser people so full of doubts.”
– Bertrand Russell
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