Beyond the Bell Archives | Fee-Only Retirement Planning in Rochester NY

Gifting During the Holidays: Understanding Federal Gift Tax Rules and Gifting Strategies

Eric Udvari November 6, 2026

For investors approaching or living in retirement, deciding how and when to draw from different types of retirement accounts can be an important part of financial planning. A Roth IRA conversion may provide one potential way to reposition assets from a traditional tax-deferred retirement account into a Roth IRA, but the decision involves weighing current tax consequences against potential future benefits. In this article, Ryan Tomko, CFP® explores how Roth conversions work, factors that may influence their timing, and how recent tax-law changes may affect the planning considerations surrounding conversions in 2026 and beyond.

Market Outlook Fall 2026

Brian Lester October 30, 2026

During the third quarter of 2026, subdued volatility in the S&P 500 masked sharp swings in individual stocks and industry groups (Advisor Perspectives). For example, software and services stocks, which declined 20% in the first half of the year amid concerns about AI-driven disruption, rebounded 28% in Q3, accounting for 98% of the S&P 500 Index’s approximately 2.3% total return for the quarter. Meanwhile, U.S. economic growth remained resilient, Treasury yields rose to levels not seen in decades, and inflation remained above 3%, well above the Federal Reserve’s 2% target (Morningstar). In our Fall 2026 Investment Outlook, we examine these

Roth IRA Conversions: Key Tax Considerations for Retirement Planning

Ryan Tomko October 9, 2026

Your Year-End Financial Checklist: Smart Planning Moves to Finish the Year Strong

Katie Calabria October 2, 2026

In this checklist, Katie Calabria, CTFA, Senior Client Service Manager at Howe & Rusling, outlines practical year‑end planning steps covering retirement contributions, tax planning, investments, and estate planning considerations. Even small, thoughtful actions today may help set the tone for a more confident year ahead.

Spend the Money

Dylan Potter September 25, 2026

Financial advisor Dylan Potter believes the true purpose of wealth isn’t simply to accumulate more of it, but to use it to create meaningful experiences with the people who matter most. In this thoughtful reflection, Dylan explores why some of the best investments never appear on a financial statement and why the memories we create may often become our greatest legacy.

Insurance Basics Explained: A Practical Guide to Protecting Income, Assets, and Financial Goals

Michael Carrico September 18, 2026

Insurance is designed to help protect what you’ve built, not grow it—but it’s a critical part of financial wellbeing. In this practical primer, Michael Carrico, CFP®, CRPC®, Wealth Manager at Howe & Rusling, explains the core types of insurance coverage and how thoughtful risk management may help individuals and families avoid major financial setbacks.

Hidden Costs Explained: Expense Ratios, Trading Fees, and Custodian Charges Investors Should Know

Vincent Visconti September 11, 2026

While trading commissions have largely disappeared, many investment costs remain. In this article, Vincent Visconti, Portfolio Operations Manager at Howe & Rusling, breaks down expense ratios, trading costs, and custodian fees to help investors better understand what they may be paying—and why awareness matters.

Teaching Kids About Money: Savings, Investing, and Financial Discipline

Craig Cairns September 4, 2026

In this StreetSmarts video, Craig Cairns, President, shares practical reflections on teaching children and grandchildren about financial responsibility. Drawing from decades of hands-on parenting experience—raising seven children across a wide age range—he discusses lessons learned about allowance structures, saving, charitable giving, investing with real money, and the importance of starting early.

From understanding 401(k) matching contributions to appreciating the long-term impact of compounding, Craig outlines foundational principles designed to help young adults build independence, develop financial discipline, and recognize meaningful tradeoffs.

Oil, AI, and Government Debt

Michael Carrico August 28, 2026

Oil, AI, and government debt may seem like separate economic stories, but they are increasingly connected through the bond market. Michael Carrico, CFP®, CRPC® explores how energy disruptions, inflation, AI infrastructure spending, and rising government borrowing can influence interest rates and what these dynamics may mean for investors.

Saving Options for Kids & Grandkids: Education, Flexibility, and Long‑Term Opportunity

Elizabeth Koch August 21, 2026

Saving for children and grandchildren goes beyond college tuition. This article explores key savings options—from 529 plans to the new Trump Accounts—and how a layered, flexible approach may help families plan confidently for an uncertain future. Written by Elizabeth Koch, Senior Marketing Manager, with insights from Howe & Rusling advisors.

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