For generations, Americans have been told that the safest place for their money is the bank. In many respects, that statement is true. The U.S. banking system is one of the most heavily regulated financial systems in the world, and the overwhelming majority of depositors never experience any disruption in accessing their funds. However, recent bank failures have reminded us that banks are businesses, not vaults, and like any business, they can fail. The real question isn’t whether a bank can become insolvent; history has proven that it can. The more important question is whether you understand what happens to your money if it does.¹
Every election cycle, Americans hear a familiar promise: tax the rich and the nation’s fiscal problems will be solved. The argument is simple and emotionally appealing. Billionaires have accumulated enormous wealth, millionaires continue to prosper, and many Americans believe the wealthy should contribute more to help fund government programs and reduce the federal deficit. But when we examine the numbers, a different picture emerges. While higher taxes on the wealthy could generate additional revenue, the reality is that America’s deficit problem is far larger than most people realize.
The United States has operated with budget deficits for many years, but the pace at which federal debt has grown over the last several years has raised concerns among economists, policymakers, and retirees alike. In simple terms, a budget deficit occurs when the federal government spends more money than it collects in taxes and other revenues. While deficits can be useful during recessions or emergencies, persistent deficits eventually add to the national debt. In 2020, federal debt held by the public was approximately $21 trillion. By the end of 2025, that figure had grown to roughly $37 trillion as a result of pandemic-related spending, entitlement program growth, rising interest costs, and ongoing budget shortfalls. According to projections from the Congressional Budget Office (CBO), debt levels are expected to continue rising through 2030 and beyond, potentially exceeding 100% of the nation’s Gross Domestic Product and reaching levels not seen since World War II.
For years Americans were told inflation was “temporary.” Then they were told inflation was “coming down.” But for most families standing in the grocery aisle, shopping for clothes, or making a car payment, the reality feels very different. The reason is simple: inflation slowing down does not mean prices are going back down. If an item jumps 14% over two years and inflation later cools to 2%, consumers are still paying the permanently higher price. The rate of increase slows, but the damage remains built into everyday living costs. That distinction has become one of the defining economic frustrations of the post-COVID era.
2026 is already testing investors with tech leadership, geopolitical tensions, and macro forces shaping the markets. The “Magnificent Seven” still lead – but slowing growth signals a shift in market dynamics you won’t want to ignore.
For many Americans approaching retirement, the 401(k) catch-up provision was one of the most practical and meaningful planning tools available. It was designed to help workers age 50 and older who, due to family obligations, housing costs, healthcare expenses, or career disruptions, were unable to fully maximize retirement savings earlier in life. By allowing additional contributions on a pre-tax basis, the rule helped late-career earners save more and reduce taxable income during what are often their highest earning years. With a new portion of the SECURE 2.0 Act taking effect this year, that lifeline was just ripped away.
Big changes are coming to retirement planning. In this new article, we break down what the Big Beautiful Bill means for taxes, RMDs, healthcare costs, estate planning, and more. If you’re nearing retirement—or already there—this is essential reading.
Veterans deserve the retirement they’ve been dreaming about. Our guide explores the resources available to maximize benefits and help ensure a smooth and well-supported transition into retirement.
By Donald Albach Presidential election years act as a crucible of anticipation and uncertainty for investors, prompting a meticulous examination of historical market performance. Understanding how various asset classes, including bonds and real estate, have weathered these pivotal years provides investors with valuable insights. In this article, we delve into the historical performance of the […]
The Consumer-Price Index (CPI) rose to 4.2% in April as compared to last year.[1] We could see higher prices when it comes to travel, food, cars, and other common goods and services. High inflation can hurt retirees who are living off their savings, especially when we have near-zero interest rates. We already see bigger Social […]
