Whenever there’s market volatility, investors naturally become concerned about what they should do to help protect their portfolios. Although there are some strategies that are particularly suited to down markets, many financial experts will tell you that, for the most part, investors should focus on their asset allocations in a down market just as they should when prices are up. So although down markets can be difficult to endure, they don’t necessarily require investors to do anything — unless they’ve strayed from their asset allocations and need to get their portfolios back in line. Read More
One financial strategy that is often overlooked when evaluating your retirement and estate planning options is the Roth IRA conversion. Converting allows you to reposition your current tax-deferred retirement account to a Roth IRA by paying federal and possibly state income tax [but without the IRS 10% additional tax for taking early or pre-59½ distributions (10% additional tax)] on the taxable amount of the conversion. The benefit is that any earnings would be distributed tax-free, if certain conditions are met. Read More