Blog
The Social Security Decision: Navigating the Trade-offs of Claiming Early vs. Late
Choosing when to claim Social Security is a vital retirement decision. Whether you claim early at 62, wait for your Full Retirement Age, or delay until 70, your strategy should balance health, income needs, and long-term financial goals.
Read MoreMarket Update - April 2026
Our Q1 2026 Market Update provides a high-level look at recent performance and the economic drivers shaping the landscape. Gain the perspective needed to navigate market shifts and stay aligned with your long-term goals. Watch now
Read MoreMarket Update - February 2026
In this comprehensive update, Matt Somberg reviews 2025’s global rally & lagging Mag 7. For 2026: navigating midterm cycles, Fed rates, and strong earnings growth. Stay informed on the year ahead.
Read MoreIncome Planning Matters More Than Ever: Why Taxes Deserve a Second Look This Year
Maximize your long-term wealth with strategic income planning. Learn how to coordinate multi-layered income sources, manage tax exposure, and avoid costly surcharges through a forward-looking approach to tax season and retirement.
Read MoreHow Connecticut Residents Can Find Unclaimed Money, Lost 401(k)s, and Old Retirement Accounts
CT residents: Find your lost money! Search the CT Big List for unclaimed property (deposits, checks, etc.) and use free federal tools to locate forgotten 401(k)s and pensions. Start your free search today!
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Market Update - November 2025
Market rally is expanding beyond the mega-caps, valuations remain grounded, and today's S&P 500 top 10 differs greatly from 1985 in composition.
Read MoreThe Hidden Dangers of a Roth IRA Conversion
Roth conversions can trigger a large, immediate tax bill, increase Medicare premiums (IRMAA), cause liquidity issues, and are now permanent. Learn the 8 hidden dangers and when to convert safely.
Read MoreStrategic Year-End Tax-Loss Selling and Portfolio Rebalancing: What you need to know
Year-end is key for investors. Tax-loss selling minimizes taxes, and rebalancing aligns your portfolio with goals & risk. Review both before Dec 31st for a smart financial close.
Read MoreMarket Update - October 2025
October 2025 Market Update: YTD stock performance, domestic vs. international returns, volatility, the Fed's rate cuts, and the cautious inflation outlook. Watch now for our full analysis!
Read More6 Smart Money Moves to Make in the Year Before You Retire
The year before retirement is key! Focus on a checklist: Know your numbers (budget, income, tax), update your estate plan, develop a withdrawal strategy, plan for Social Security/Medicare, and notify your employer.
Read More401(k) Catch-Up Rules Change for High Earners in 2026
Starting 2026, the SECURE 2.0 Act requires high earners (>$145k, age 50+) to make all 401(k) catch-up contributions as Roth (after-tax). Pre-tax catch-ups are eliminated for HCEs.
Read MoreBeyond the Headlines: The Forces Pushing Stocks to New Highs
Market Paradox: Stocks hit new highs despite economic slowdowns, tariffs, and tension. Strong corporate earnings and expected Fed rate cuts are fueling the rise, outweighing short-term risks.
Read MoreThe Paradox of Progress: How Increased AI Efficiency Led to a Market Roller Coaster
Despite market volatility in 2025, a Chinese AI company's efficient new model tested investor confidence in US tech. But the "Jevons' Paradox" suggests improved AI efficiency may actually increase demand for GPUs.
Read MoreA New Era of Tax Policy: Key Highlights from the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act”
The new "One Big Beautiful Bill Act" reforms taxes, healthcare, and energy. It includes a blend of permanent and temporary changes, with new provisions for standard deductions, SALT, and business expenses.
Read MoreThe Quiet Gift of Planning
A seamless transfer of a client's estate offered his family peace of mind during a difficult time. This story shows that true wealth management is not just about returns, but about creating a thoughtful legacy.
Read MoreMarket Update - July 2025
Get timely insights into the financial markets with our July 2025 Market Update video. In this concise summary, our principal, Matt Somberg, breaks down the key trends, opportunities, and challenges shaping the current economic landscape.
Read MoreBackdoor Roth IRA & Mega Backdoor Roth: High-Income Roth Strategies
High earner looking for tax-free growth? Unlock Roth IRA benefits with Backdoor and Mega Backdoor strategies! Learn how to maximize your retirement savings..
Read MoreUnderstanding Treasury Bond Ownership and Market Stability
Concerned about US Treasury bond ownership? Most are held domestically. Our article explains how the market's immense size and daily trading volume, backed by the US government, ensure its stability. Read on to understand the facts!
Read MoreMarket Update - May 2025
Stay informed! Our May 2025 market update video covers key financial events and wealth management insights.
Read MoreMissing the 10 Best Days: The Hidden Cost of Fleeing a Volatile Market
Navigate market volatility wisely. Discover why timing the market can be costly and how missing top-performing days drastically impacts long-term returns. Learn proactive strategies to stay invested and secure your financial future.
Read MoreNavigating International Outperformance: The Investor’s Dilemma
International stocks are strongly outperforming US equities in 2025, sparking debate about "American Exceptionalism." Is this a rare turning point or a temporary shift? Read more to explore the drivers and implications.
Read MoreRedefining Gifting: Investing in Experiences, Not Just Assets
Instead of traditional gifts, consider gifting family experiences. Create lasting memories through shared vacations and adventures, strengthening generational bonds.
Read MoreNew “Super Catch-Up” Savings Limits for 2025
New 2025 "Super Catch-Up" limits boost 401(k) savings for ages 60-63. Maximize retirement funds with higher contributions, enhancing financial security pre-retirement.
Read MoreShort-Term Market Volatility: A Historical Perspective
Market swings are normal. History shows even strong years have dips. Stay focused, diversified, & long-term. Volatility passes.
Read MoreGovernment Shutdowns and Their Impact on the Stock Market and Economy
Shutdowns cause market volatility & economic disruption, impacting GDP & worker pay. Markets usually recover post-shutdown, but repeated events risk long-term damage.
Read MoreMarket Update - March 2025
Navigating today's markets? Get the GSWM Wealth Management update: year-to-date winners, 2025 sector predictions, tariff impacts, and the political-market connection. Plus, which key economic indicators are we monitoring closely? Don't miss
Read MoreFinancial Planning for HNW Millennials: Building Wealth with Confidence and Flexibility
HNW millennials need modern financial plans balancing growth, preservation, and values. Tax optimization, estate planning, and lifestyle goals are key. A trusted advisor is crucial for financial confidence and a lasting legacy.
Read MoreReclaiming Social Security
Retired CT educators & public safety workers will see Social Security boosts thanks to the WEP & GPO repeal. Spousal benefits, previously reduced or eliminated, will increase significantly. Lump sum payments for 2024 underpayments are als
Read MoreInterest Rates: Fourth Quarter 2024
Unlock insights into the Q4 2024 interest rate landscape. Join us for a discussion on the U.S. Treasury yield curve and its impact on the market. Watch now.
Read MoreThe Role of Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) in Your Financial Plan
HSAs offer significant tax advantages and can be a powerful tool for short-term medical expenses and long-term retirement planning. Learn how HSAs can help you save on taxes, invest for the future, and cover healthcare costs in retirement.
Read MoreAre Stocks Overvalued?
Learn how the price you pay for an investment trumps its inherent quality. Explore the dot-com bubble and how Oracle's stock price plummeted despite its strong business. Is today's market overvalued? Read the full article to find out.
Read MoreMarket Update - December 2024
In this insightful video, Matthew Somberg discusses upcoming changes in gifting, estate planning, retirement, and savings. He also covers 2024 stock market performance, potential Fed rate cuts, and an economic overview.
Read MoreLeftover 529 Funds? Convert to a Roth IRA for Tax-Free Growth
Don't let unused 529 funds go to waste! Convert them to a Roth IRA and unlock tax-free retirement savings. Learn how the SECURE Act 2.0 makes this possible. Click to read more!
Read MoreDonor Advised Fund: What is it and what are the benefits?
Donor-advised funds (DAFs) offer tax benefits, investment growth, privacy, and simplified administration. Donors receive immediate tax deductions while recommending grants to charities over time. DAFs are a flexible and efficient way to giv
Read MoreInterest Rates: Third Quarter 2024
Join us as we examine the U.S. Treasury yield curve and discuss the implications of the latest interest rate developments. Watch now to get informed.
Read MoreMarket Update - September 2024
Discover how historical trends during election years and recent Fed rate cuts can impact your investments. Watch our September 2024 market update video to learn how our wealth management expertise can help you navigate these uncertain times
Read MoreFive things to consider when converting to a Roth IRA
Learn how Roth conversions can lower your future tax burden and maximize your retirement savings. We explore 5 key factors to consider, including RMDs, healthcare costs, state taxes, legacy planning, and future tax rates. Don't wait...
Read MoreSECURE 2.0: Clarifying Inherited IRA Rules for Non-Spousal Beneficiaries
The IRS has finally clarified the 10-year rule for inherited IRAs, but the rules may be more complex than initially thought.
Read More$2,000 Drug Cap In 2025 — The Continuing Evolution of Medicare Part D
Beginning in 2025, out-of-pocket prescription drug costs for Medicare Part D will be capped at $2,000 annually. This is a significant reduction from the current limit and aims to provide relief to beneficiaries.
Read MoreNQDC Plans: Your Future, Unlocked
NQDC plans explained for high-income earners. Covers tax benefits, customization, risks, and plan differences. Professional advice stressed.
Read MoreInterest Rates: A Window into the Economic Future
Unraveling the complex relationship between economic indicators and interest rate movements to predict the financial landscape ahead.
Read MoreMarket Update - July 2024
Uncertain markets demand informed strategies. Join Matt Somberg for a high-level review of the market's performance in 2024. Gain valuable insights on critical factors impacting your portfolio. Watch the video for a full market update.
Read MoreHow Secure Act 2.0 Impacts RMDs From Annuities
IRA owners with annuities can now benefit from a new RMD rule thanks to Secure Act 2.0. This allows combining annuity value and income with traditional IRA accounts to potentially lower required minimum distributions. Learn how this could s
Read MoreApple Finally Joins the AI Fray
Apple is about to launch something BIG that will change the way you use your iPhone. Find out how Apple Intelligence will make your life easier and why investors are suddenly excited about Apple stock again. Read the full story to see if Ap
Read MoreInherited Retirement Accounts: 5 Things You Need to Know
Inheriting a retirement account? Don't miss out! Understand the rules for spouses vs. non-spouses, Traditional vs. Roth accounts, and how to maximize your benefits. Get professional guidance for smart decisions.
Read MoreStrategies for Financial Gifts to Grandchildren
Grandchildren inspiring a grand financial plan overhaul! This article explores how to give to grandkids while keeping your own retirement secure. Read more for gifting strategies & tax tips!
Read MoreMarket Update - May 2024
Are you wondering how the markets performed in the first quarter of 2024? Join Matthew Somberg as he breaks down Q1's key trends and developments.
Read MoreSecure Act 2.0: New Rules for Inherited IRAs and Beneficiaries
Secure Act 2.0: New Rules for Inherited IRAs and Beneficiaries Secure Act 2.0 came into effect as of January 1, 2020, with many new rules that impacted the retirement savings landscape. These changes were far reaching as they impacted...
Read MoreHow Gifts Made Today Might Affect Future Medicaid Eligibility
How Gifts Made Today Might Affect Future Medicaid Eligibility Over the past three years, several of our clients’ parents have found themselves entering into a “Medicaid Spend-down” as they look to the state of Connecticut to provide...
Read MoreU.S Treasuries Yield Curve 1/1/2024 - 3/31/2024
U.S Treasuries Yield Curve: What Investors Need to Know
Read MoreTaxes vs. Safety vs. Liquidity: Picking the Perfect Fixed-Income Fit
With rising interest rates, fixed-income investments like CDs and Treasuries are becoming more attractive. This article explores the pros and cons of CDs and Treasuries to help you decide which is right for you.
Read MoreHas the Magnificent 7 become the Magnificent 1?
Is Nvidia the new market leader? Can AI power keep the stock soaring? Find out the future of Nvidia and AI in the stock market.
Read MoreMarket Update - March 2024
The 'Magnificent Seven' trend continues in 2024, but who has replaced Apple, Tesla, and Google? Matthew Somberg investigates the market shake-up; watch now.
Read MoreNavigating Retirement with Financial Wisdom: The 50/30/20 Rule as Your Guide
Retirement is not just a milestone; it’s a unique chapter of life where careful financial planning becomes essential. A well-crafted budget serves as a roadmap to ensure your financial ship stays on course while you enjoy the breathtaking v
Read More2023 Investment Review & 2024 Outlook: Politics, Concentration Risk & Future Returns
Last year's financial landscape was anything but predictable. From shifting interest rates and unexpected bank collapses to inflation fluctuations and a booming stock market, navigating the complexities could feel daunting. This report d
Read MoreFeeling Generous? Gifting Strategies to Take Advantage of in 2024
Leave a legacy, lighten your tax load—the ultimate guide to strategic gifting in 2024.
Read MoreMarket Review - Fourth Quarter 2023
Investment Commentary Q4 2023 by Matthew Somberg, David Mitchell and Nicholas Hogrefe
Read MoreMarket Update - January 2024
2023: The Market Rebounded, But What's Next? Watch Matthew Somberg dive into the surprising twists and turns of 2023's market, and discover the secrets to navigating the year ahead.
Read MoreThe market and economy are doing well; why do some of us feel lousy?
2023: The year the economy defied expectations, but not our anxieties. Dive into the why and how.
Read MoreUnlocking the Secrets to Financial Advisory Success: Gottfried & Sombergs Journey to $2B in AUM
Delve into the Art and Science of Scaling Your Firm with these Insights.
Read MoreThe Wealth Effect - How rising investment values impact the economy
Feeling spendier lately? You're not alone! Science says it's the "Wealth Effect," boosting your spending with every market rise. Join me as we dive into this financial superpower, and see why that dream vacation might feel much close.
Read MoreMarket Update - November 2023
Co-founder and Principal Matthew Somberg shares his market update for November 2023.
Read MoreNavigating Economic Turbulence: Key Takeaways from Jerome Powell's Speech
In a world of uncertainty, Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell outlines critical investment themes for the future.
Read MoreMaximizing Your 2024 Retirement Plan: Building a Financial Future
Unlock the Secrets to Maximizing Your Retirement Savings in 2024: Embark on a Journey to Financial Freedom
Read MoreRoth Conversion: A strategy to consider
Roth conversions: Reduce your RMD and pass tax-free wealth to your heirs.
Read MoreMarket Review Third Quarter 2023
Stocks decline in Q3 as interest rates rise, but silver linings emerge.
Read MoreQ3 Financial Market Update: What Investors Need to Know
In this video, Matt Somberg looks at the key trends and insights that shaped the financial market in Q3. If you want to make smarter investment decisions in the coming months, this video is for you.
Read MoreWhat do people mean when they say, "Tech is doing well" or "Utilities are lagging"?
Sector performance can differ dramatically from overall market performance, so it's important to understand what's driving these moves and how to diversify your portfolio accordingly.
Read MoreGoing a Bit Too Far To Get It Right
The Fed's Balancing Act: Can They Tame Inflation Without Crashing the Economy?
Read MoreMarket Update - August 2023
Co-founder and Principal Matthew Somberg shares his market update for August 2023.
Read MoreUsing Your Home Equity in a Cash Crunch
Don't let a cash crunch ruin your financial future. Learn how to use your home equity to get the money you need.
Read MoreNavigating Market Waves: The Power of Diversification
Navigating Market Waves: The Power of Diversification
Read MoreMarket Review Second Quarter 2023
Market Review Second Quarter 2023
Read MoreThe Way Forward
Matthew Somberg spoke on advisor capacity, compensation, culture, blasting through the “messy middle,” differentiating your firm and growth.
Read MoreMarket Performance & Economic Outlook for 2023
Market Performance & Economic Outlook for 2023
Read MoreBenefits of ROTH IRAs for Children
Benefits of ROTH IRAs for Children
Read MoreSaving for a Home: Tips and Tricks
Saving for a Home: Tips and Tricks
Read MoreSecure Act 2.0: Enhancing Retirement Savings
Secure Act 2.0: Enhancing Retirement Savings
Read MoreMarket Review First Quarter 2023
Market Review First Quarter 2023
Read MoreMarket Update Video - April 18, 2023
Q1 Performance & Return of the 60/40 Portfolio
Read MoreThe Value of Proactive Tax Planning
The Value of Proactive Tax Planning
Read MoreUnderstanding Recent Bank Failures
Understanding Recent Bank Failures
Read MoreMarket Update Video - March 9, 2023
Money Markets and Treasury Bills
Read MoreUsing a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD)
Using a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD)
Read MoreThe Debt Ceiling & Investment Markets
The Debt Ceiling & Investment Markets
Read MoreMarket Review Fourth Quarter 2022
Market Review Fourth Quarter 2022
Read MoreQuarterly Financial Checklist
It’s Time to Start Organizing Your Finances for the New Year
Read MoreCurrent Markets and Financial Planning for 2023
Financial Planning for 2023
Read MoreWhat do interest rates tell us about the economy?
An Explanation of the Yield Curve
Read MoreMarket Update Video - November 8, 2022
Markets, Mid-Term Elections & Year-End Tax Planning
Read MoreMarket Review Third Quarter 2022
Market Review Third Quarter 2022
Read MoreMaking Sense of October 13, 2022 Inflation Numbers
Making Sense of October 13, 2022 Inflation Numbers
Read MoreMarket Update Video - August 11, 2022
Investment Performance, the Labor Market and Economy
Read MoreMarket Update Video - June 22, 2022
Inflation, Interest Rates & Market Performance
Read MoreMarket Update Video - June 1, 2022
Understanding Recessions and How Markets Respond
Read MoreThe Evolution of Retirement
How retirement planning has become more complex
Read MoreMarket Update Video - May 2022
Markets, Inflation & Portfolio Re-Balancing
Read MoreFirst Quarter 2022 Lessons Learned--or Relearned
A few things to keep in mind after an unusually difficult quarter
Read MoreWhat is IRMAA and Why Does it Matter?
Understanding Medicare premium costs
Read MoreOur thoughts on how the Ukraine crisis impacts your portfolio
Clarity During a Time of Uncertainty
Read MoreMarket Review Fourth Quarter 2021
Market Review Fourth Quarter 2021
Read MoreBack to Basics
Three Investing Fundamentals to Keep Things Simple
Read MoreThe Financial Impact of a Cognitive Decline
Are you financially prepared for a mental decline?
Read MoreTime to worry about inflation?
Long term trends suggest no. Here's why.
Read MoreHow to manage the tax burden of Required Minimum Distributions
How to manage the tax burden of Required Minimum Distributions
Read MoreA Steepening Yield Curve Suggests a Positive Investor Outlook
Treasury yields are on the rise in 2021
Read MoreNick Hogrefe, Matt Somberg and Josh Gottfried January 14, 2021 Market Discussion
Nick, Matt and Josh discuss the 2020 market and look forward to 2021
Read MoreCONNECTICUT RETIREE TAX BENEFITS
Retiree Income Tax Exemptions for Connecticut residents
Read MoreRetirement uses of Health Savings Accounts
HSA's are not just for today....
Read MorePost 2020 Presidential Election: How will the US stock market and economy react?
When it comes to the year 2020, one thing we can all agree on is that it has been a year like no other.
Read MoreJosh Gottfried and Matt Somberg Third Quarter Discussion November 10, 2020
Josh Gottfried and Matt Somberg Third Quarter Discussion November 10, 2020
Read MoreNovember 1, 2020 Weekend Market Thoughts by Matt Somberg
With the presidential election 48 hours away, we want to share a few thoughts regarding the investment markets.
Read MoreOctober 28, 2020 Josh Gottfried Video Call
Pre-election Investment Update
Read More3rd Quarter 2020 Market and Investment Summary
Two themes dominating the Stock Market in 2020.
Read MoreDoes the S&P 500 Still Provide Diversification?
The technology sector’s dominance raises the question
Read MoreWill the Shift Towards ESG Investing Last?
Will the Shift Towards ESG Investing Last?
Read MoreSeptember 16, 2020 Josh Gottfried Video Call
Financial planning perspectives during, as the cast of Hamilton would say, the world has been turned upside down.
Read MoreShould I be buying a vaccine stock?
If you’re willing to take the risk, we would recommend bracing for continued volatility as the rollercoaster ride continues.
Read MoreAre Stock Splits Again Becoming Popular?
There was a time when stock splits were very common on Wall Street
Read MoreAugust 23, 2020 Presidential Election Market Thoughts by Matt Somberg & Nick Hogrefe
Eyes on November
Read More3 Reasons To Invest in International Stocks
Why would anybody have exposure to international stocks when U.S. stocks have been the better performing asset class?
Read MoreJuly 30, 2020 Recent RMD Updates and Changes
In response to the COVID pandemic, the CARES act was passed causing some changes to your RMD’s
Read MoreWhen Is The Right Time To Rebalance Your Portfolio by Ryan Olschefskie
During times of market volatility requires being more proactive with rebalancing your portfolio
Read MoreLooking Into The Future
With so much negative economic news, and so much current uncertainty — why does the stock market keep going up?
Read MoreJuly 4th Market Thoughts by Jim Newman
Considering the crisis in terms of the grieving process
Read MoreJune 28, 2020 Weekend Market Thoughts by Dan Heffernan
Stocks take a break while investors consider rising Covid-19 cases.
Read MoreJune 21, 2020 Weekend Market thoughts by Matt Somberg
Two important economic headlines from last week: the Federal Reserve is buying corporate bonds and May retail sales surged
Read MoreJune 19, 2020 Coronavirus Scams: Info and Tips to Help You Stay Vigilant
Coronavirus Scams: Info and Tips to Help You Stay Vigilant
Read MoreJune 10, 2020 Josh Gottfried Weekly Video Call Number 13
Understanding the storyline of a bailout
Read MoreJune 7, 2020 Weekend Market Thoughts by Matt Somberg
Last week was terrific for the markets
Read MoreMay 27, 2020 Josh Gottfried Weekly Video Call Number 11
Today we are experiencing three crises; A Medical Pandemic as well as an Economic and Psychological one.
Read MoreMay 20, 2020 Josh Gottfried Weekly Video Call Number 10
Stress and Trauma are directly related to the ability to adapt to changes
Read MoreMay 17, 2020 Weekend Market Thoughts by Matt Somberg
Last week’s Dow Jones Index, S&P 500 and NASDAQ declines were fueled by job losses, retail sales declines and trade relations headlines
Read MoreMay 10, 2020 Weekend Market Thoughts by Matt Somberg
Take a longer-term view and compare the markets today to where they were 12 months ago
Read MoreMay 6, 2020 Josh Gottfried Weekly Video Call Number 8
Some communities have been hit harder with COVID-19 then others and the risk to people across the country isn't equal either
Read MoreMay 3, 2020 Weekend Market Thoughts by Matt Somberg
As the panic selling of March is behind us, April closes out as a positive month for the markets
Read MoreApril 29, 2020 Josh Gottfried Weekly Video Call Number 7
Restarting the economy is a truly unique concept
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