In this video, Elizabeth Hutton, CFP®, Vice President, Financial Planner, explains the three tax buckets—tax-deferred, tax-free, and taxable—and how each is treated for tax purposes. She outlines basic considerations around tax diversification and asset location within a retirement plan.
In this article, Michael Carrico, CFP®, CRPC®, Wealth Manager, explores the relationship between portfolio construction and investor behavior in shaping long-term investment outcomes.
Drawing on academic research and behavioral finance insights, the article examines asset allocation, investment selection, market timing challenges, and the “behavior gap” between investment returns and investor returns. It also outlines practical tools—such as investment policy statements and automation—that may support disciplined decision-making over time.
The inaugural Charity Pickleball Classic united colleagues, clients, and community members for a day of spirited competition and philanthropy, raising over $8,000 for the Veterans Outreach Center and establishing a new annual tradition of giving back.
Recent volatility has served as a reminder that market fluctuations are a normal part of investing. In this video, Jordan Eich, CFP®, Wealth Manager at Howe & Rusling, discusses the role discipline can play during periods of market turbulence. He shares educational insights on preparing for volatility, including maintaining appropriate cash reserves, aligning asset allocation with risk tolerance, and maintaining a long-term perspective.
In this article, Ryan Tomko, CFP®, Vice President, Wealth Manager, explores how the emotional pull of sports fandom and “bandwagon” behavior can influence investment decisions.
Drawing parallels between herd mentality in athletics and financial markets, he explains how social pressure, momentum, and rising asset prices can reinforce speculative behavior. The article also outlines practical steps—such as critical thinking, disciplined research, and deliberate decision-making—to help investors stay aligned with long-term goals.
Understanding the distinction between a revocable living trust and a will is an important first step in building a comprehensive estate plan. The Basics of a Will. A Last Will and Testament is a legal document that directs how your assets will be distributed after your death. Through a will, you can name beneficiaries, appoint an executor to administer your estate, and provide instructions for the payment of debts, taxes, and final expenses. A will is the only document that allows you to formally nominate guardians for minor children. For parents, this makes a will an essential component of any estate plan. However, a will does
Our 2026 Investment Outlook examines the forces we believe are most likely to shape markets in the year ahead—from the evolution of AI investment and productivity gains to labor market dynamics, inflation trends, and the shifting stance of fiscal and monetary policy. We explore where risks may be building, where opportunities may be broadening, and how disciplined portfolio positioning can help navigate an increasingly complex environment.
In this article, Dylan Potter, CFA, CFP®, Vice President, Senior Wealth Manager, explains the probate process in New York and what happens to assets after death—whether or not a will is in place.
He explains the New York probate process, executor responsibilities, and common estate administration challenges. He also shares practical planning considerations that may help families stay organized and prepared.
In this article, Andrea M. Gray, Esq., Vice President, Estate Strategies, outlines seven common estate planning mistakes that can weaken an otherwise strong financial plan.
From failing to create a plan at all to overlooking beneficiary designations and incapacity documents, she explains how gaps in estate planning can create unnecessary court involvement, tax inefficiencies, and administrative burdens. This overview offers insight into how estate planning may be considered alongside other components of a holistic wealth strategy.
What Is Taxable Income? Taxable income is the amount of your earnings that the government uses to calculate your income tax. It’s not necessarily the same as your total income (or gross income). After adjustments, deductions, and credits are applied, what remains is your taxable income — and the lower it is, the less tax you typically pay. The federal tax system (through the IRS) and most states start with your Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) and then apply deductions and credits to reach your taxable income. (IRS) Lowering taxable income may: Strategies to Lower Taxable Income Here are several common strategies individuals can use to
