CLICK HERE to get your FREE copy of “Sail To and Through Retirement with the Millstone Advisory Plan.”

Are the Magnificent 7 Still Magnificent?

Market leadership is undergoing a clear transition, and the focus is no longer limited to the “Magnificent Seven.” With 2026 revealing broader sector participation, strengthening mid-cap performance, and renewed traction in small caps, investors may need to reevaluate how they think about diversification and risk.

New Year, New Plan: Steps to Turn Your Retirement Resolutions into Reality 

The start of a new year is a natural time to reflect, reset, and recommit to goals that matter most, especially about your financial future. Many people resolve to save more or get serious about planning, but good intentions alone will not move the needle. Turning New Year’s resolutions into real retirement progress requires a clear plan and deliberate action.

The Psychology of Spending vs. Saving in Retirement 

After a lifetime of working, saving, and planning, retirement should be a time to enjoy the rewards of your efforts. Yet for many retirees, the transition from saving to spending can feel surprisingly stressful. Financial freedom does not automatically translate to emotional freedom and behavioral psychology helps explain why.

Working Part-Time After 65: The New Retirement Reality

For generations, retirement was thought of as a hard stop. You worked until 65, then stepped away completely. But today, that traditional model is shifting. More Americans are redefining retirement as a new phase of life, one that often includes part-time work, consulting, or other forms of continued engagement.

The 4% Rule: Is It Still a Good Retirement Portfolio Withdrawal Rate?

The 4% rule has been used to set retirement withdrawal rates for the last three decades—but is it a smart guideline in today’s economy?

Early Retirement Plans: Optimizing Your 401(k) and Beyond

By Michael Russo Early retirement plans involve navigating the individual complexities of retirement account rules to pursue a seamless transition into your golden years.  The allure of early retirement is undeniable. It offers the opportunity to live a flexible, independent, and personally fulfilling life. Imagine not having to worry about an alarm clock when you […]

Empowering Your Finances: Key Questions Women Should Ask at Every Life Stage

By Michael Russo Does talking about money typically make you sweat? If so, don’t worry—this won’t be one of those snooze-worthy finance discussions. As a financial advisor, I’ve witnessed the impact that being a financially savvy investor can make.  Let’s dive in, because there are important financial questions you should consider at every age and […]

Why Artificial Intelligence Won’t Replace Financial Advice

By Michael Russo There’s no doubt that AI is remarkable. It’s become too easy to rely on AI for simple tasks that don’t require human discernment. But make no mistake, artificial intelligence won’t replace financial advice or the services provided by a human advisor. Sure, AI and robo-advice can do the thinking for you when […]

Beat Inflation: Proactive Measures to Preserve Your Retirement

By Michael Russo If you’ve been keeping up with recent news, you’ve likely noticed  that high inflation and threats of a recession still dominate the headlines. And it’s not just the media painting a bleak picture. Over the past year, everyday tasks like grocery shopping, refueling your car, and routine medical appointments have all become […]

4 Tips for Helping Create a Lasting Legacy You Can Be Proud Of

Everyone wants to leave a lasting legacy for future generations, but how do you shield the wealth you transfer so it can be enjoyed by your heirs? Estate planning and gifting can come with challenges, but with appropriate guidance and resources, you can create a legacy that lasts. Here are some steps you can take […]