Blog

For many years, pensions were the go-to retirement plan for businesses and workers in the U.S. However, the 401(k) model has largely taken the lead. While pensions still exist—particularly for teachers, military personnel, and employees of traditional companies—most retirement guidance revolves around the 401(k) system. So, how does having a pension impact your retirement savings compared to a plan without one?

Understanding Pensions

Are you considering a Roth Conversion in retirement, or maybe even starting it pre-retirement? The Roth Conversion is an excellent plan if done properly with the goal of doing two things, creating tax-free growth, and avoiding Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs). At the time of this article, RMDs are set to start at age 73, with a move to 75 in 2033.

When you log in to check your 401(k) balance, you might notice an option labeled “Brokerage Window” or “Self-Directed Brokerage Account” (SDBA). But what exactly is this, and how can it impact your financial strategy? More importantly, could it be a valuable tool for enhancing your retirement planning? Let's explore what an SDBA is, how it works, and whether it might benefit your financial future.

As the title suggests, I examined the opening and closing prices of the S&P 500 Index during the week of U.S. presidential elections, dating back to JFK's victory in 1960. During this time, we’ve seen sixteen presidential elections take place.