An old proverb (some would call it a curse) states “May you live in interesting times.” Lately, I’d settle for anything other than interesting. I hear from clients and advisors all the time, and many are anxious about what they should be doing.  » Read More

With the passing of Labor Day last week, summer has officially ended and college students have resumed classes. Whether living in the dorms or apartments, they’ll be faced with the added costs of a life away from home. We’re here to help! » Read More

(This is Part VI in a series of posts about Joe’s mission to find the perfect colleges for his daughters. )

As Lauren prepares to graduate high school and our college selection journey approaches its end, I can’t help but reminisce about my high school years.

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(This is Part V in a series of posts about Joe’s mission to find the perfect colleges for his daughters. Check out his first, second, third and fourth posts to catch up.)

At COUNTRY Financial, we have a slogan – “What’s your idea of financial security?” As it implies, everyone has an ideal goal driving their need to save. » Read More

(This is part IV of a series of posts about Joe’s mission to find the perfect colleges for his daughters.  Check out his first, second and third posts to catch up.)

As mid-2002 came, we had plenty on our plate.  Our investment accounts were sagging and we wrestled with an unexpected windfall from my in-laws’ estate.

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(This is part III of a series of posts about Joe’s mission to find the perfect colleges for his daughters.  Check out his first and second posts to catch up.)

The new millennium had started.  The equity markets were soaring, new records were being broken daily and it appeared no matter what stocks or funds you purchased, you just couldn’t lose. » Read More

(This is part II of a series of posts about Joe’s mission to find the perfect colleges for his daughters.  Check out his first post to catch up.)

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Many of us made resolutions just a few short weeks ago – perhaps it was to shed a few pounds, exercise more and eat healthier.  Many of us probably also made some resolutions to put our “financial house” in order.  In our household, my wife refers to these as “piecrust promises” – easily made, easily broken.  If you’re struggling to keep some of your financial resolutions, here are a few tips: » Read More

#1: It’s important to be “in the game” in order to score. So, if you want to participate in the market recovery, you have to be in the market. Hopefully, you didn’t make “the big mistake” and sell low and move everything to cash (or a money market fund). If you did, you need to get back in the game. You’ve already missed out on a good uptick the past couple of months.  The longer you wait, the more likely you’ll continue to miss out. » Read More