Market Commentary: Gold Gets Goosed and Recollections of Black Monday

The S&P 500 gained 1.7% last week, alternating between up and down days. The index is still a little more than 2% of all-time highs in the spooky month of October (more on that below). We wouldn’t be surprised to see more volatility, but we still think the environment is supportive. Wit …

Facts Vs Feelings Take 5 – The Trade War Is Back

Welcome back to Carson’s Take Five with Ryan Detrick, Chief Market Strategist, and Sonu Varghese, VP, Global Macro Strategist! In this episode, Ryan and Sonu break down the latest escalation in trade tensions between the U.S. and China and what it means for markets, inflation, and investors …

Market Commentary: Friday’s Stock Sell-Off Was Anticipated if Not Predictable, but What Comes Next?

The S&P 500 had one of their worst days in months on Friday, as President Trump threated higher tariffs on China and he accused them of “becoming very hostile.” As of now, we don’t anticipate the trade war to heat back up, but one thing to note is stocks were probably due for some volat …

Your Money

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PA Living Costs: What to Know Before You Retire

If you’re approaching retirement and call Pennsylvania home, or are considering it, chances are you’ve been keeping an eye on the rising cost of living. Maybe you’ve even Googled questions like “Is Pennsylvania affordable to retire in?” or “How much do I need to live comfortably here?”

Your Social Security Game Plan

Have you given much thought to your strategy for Social Security benefits? It’s good to have a plan in place to help you make the most of this program. But you may have questions.

Smart Moves for Retirees in a Shifting Housing Market

When we talk about the impact of the housing market, most people immediately think of mortgage rates or home affordability. But what about retirees who own their homes outright? If you’re mortgage-free, you might think you’re insulated from housing market shifts—but the reality is more complex.

2025 Calendar: Key Tasks & Financial Dates

2025 Calendar: Key Tasks & Financial Dates

Tackle 2025 with this month-by-month financial task list. We’ve also included important dates so you won’t miss any key deadlines.

Your Business

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Is Your Business Worth as Much as You Think?

As a business owner, you already know your company has value. It supports your lifestyle, pays your employees, and provides products or services your clients rely on. But here’s the big question: If someone asked you today what your business is worth, could you give them a confident answer? …

4 Unforeseen Third-Party Sales Challenges for Small Business Owners

Many business owners assume their exit path will be a sale to a third party. In fact, some entrepreneurs start their businesses with the goal of finding a larger buyer, selling the business, and moving on to their next business idea. A cash sale can definitely draw business owners toward th …

Your Guide to Business Succession Planning

As a small business owner, you may be so immersed in the day-to-day functions of your business that you haven’t yet put much thought into the day you leave it behind. In fact, for many business owners, the thought of bringing their time to a close can be daunting. Yet planning for your depa …

Business Succession Planning Checklist

Business Succession Planning Checklist

You remember your first day of business. But what about your last day? Succession planning is more complex than it may seem. Our guide walks you through the details.

Your Retirement

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How Much Will Healthcare Cost in Retirement?

When saving for retirement, we often dream about all the things we’ll be able to do with that money—traveling, going out to eat, maybe trying new hobbies. But the reality is that there are also everyday household expenses that you should account for in your post-retirement budget. Less fun …

Which Medicare Plan Is Best for You?

Choosing the right Medicare plan is one of the most important decisions seniors face. It’s also one of the most difficult. The healthcare system isn’t user-friendly to begin with. Stack all the Medicare options on top of that, and you’ve got yourself a challenge.   That’s why it’s a good id …

Maximizing Medicare: A Strategic Approach to Healthcare in Retirement

Have you thought about how much your healthcare will cost in retirement? Many people underestimate what they’ll need, and that can be an unwelcome reality check once you’re in retirement. According to recent findings, a 65-year-old individual retiring in 2025 will most likely spend an avera …

Medicare and Managing Health Care Costs in Retirement

Medicare and Managing Health Care Costs in Retirement

Health care costs in retirement aren't going anywhere. Naturally, as our bodies get older, it costs more to keep them running. Let's look at the parts of this vital program and how it plays a part in your financial plan.

Your Legacy

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The Financial Footsteps of Fathers: Planning, Providing, Preserving

Father’s Day offers more than just a chance to fire up the grill or unwrap a new set of golf balls, it’s also a meaningful time to reflect on the financial footsteps many fathers take throughout their lives. Whether it’s building a strong foundation, navigating the responsibilities of …

How Estate and Gift Taxes Can Impact Your Financial Plan

Tom Fridrich, JD, CLU, ChFC®, Manager and Senior Wealth Planner Giving something you own to someone else. It’s a simple, human act – one that seems like it shouldn’t take too much planning to do it correctly. But when does gifting become a tax issue? What do you need to consider about gifti …

Why You Might Need a Power of Attorney

Have you thought about your legacy? We highly recommend that you appoint a trusted family member or friend as your power of attorney (POA), giving them the ability to help with your financial or health needs, should an unfortunate event occur in your life.

A Guide to Gifting to Your Heirs

A Guide to Gifting to Your Heirs

Gifting to your loved ones now or posthumously each carries their own positives and negatives as they relate to your estate plan, taxes, your goals and your legacy.

Your Freedom

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Enjoying Vacations Without Compromising Your Financial Goals

Vacations offer something priceless: time to relax, connect with loved ones, and make lasting memories. But for many people, the question lingers—Can I really afford to take this trip without disrupting my long-term financial goals? The good news? With thoughtful planning, it’s entirely pos …

Compounding Wealth (and Wisdom): The Power of Compound Interest

No single strategy works forever, but you also don’t want to change your approach every time the markets shift slightly. How does investing work – not just for a season or a year or two, but for a lifetime? Time is a major factor when it comes to successful investing.

How to Make Charitable Giving Part of Your Financial Plan

COVID-19 caused an economic shockwave that we’ll feel for a long time. Nonprofits, from large global networks to the local churches, have been hit hard, too. In a recent survey of 110 nonprofits, 80% of them said revenue had fallen across the board.

When Shifting Goals Mean Shifting Plans

When Shifting Goals Mean Shifting Plans

Your financial plan shouldn't look the same at 55 as it did when you were 35, right? So how do you know when it's time to adjust your plan?

Market & Investments

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Market Commentary: Gold Gets Goosed and Recollections of Black Monday

The S&P 500 gained 1.7% last week, alternating between up and down days. The index is still a little more than 2% of all-time highs in the spooky month of October (more on that below). We wouldn’t be surprised to see more volatility, but we still think the environment is supportive. Wit …

Facts Vs Feelings Take 5 – The Trade War Is Back

Welcome back to Carson’s Take Five with Ryan Detrick, Chief Market Strategist, and Sonu Varghese, VP, Global Macro Strategist! In this episode, Ryan and Sonu break down the latest escalation in trade tensions between the U.S. and China and what it means for markets, inflation, and investors …

Market Commentary: Friday’s Stock Sell-Off Was Anticipated if Not Predictable, but What Comes Next?

The S&P 500 had one of their worst days in months on Friday, as President Trump threated higher tariffs on China and he accused them of “becoming very hostile.” As of now, we don’t anticipate the trade war to heat back up, but one thing to note is stocks were probably due for some volat …

2025 Market Outlook Report

2025 Market Outlook Report

The economy had a big year in 2024, avoiding a recession while posting strong job numbers and a soaring stock market. But the new year brings new concerns. What impact could we see from tariffs? How long do we think this bull market will continue? What will the Fed do in 2025?

In the News

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2025 Market Volatility Email to Clients

As we all continue to monitor the recent market volatility stemming from newly implemented tariffs, we know how unsettling this type of news can feel. These moments of uncertainty are never easy—but they are not unfamiliar. As we proudly celebrate FIP’s 30th anniversary this year, we’re rem …

Celebrating 30 Years of Financial Independence Planning: A Personal Reflection from Harry Keller

As I sit down to write this, I’m filled with a deep sense of pride and gratitude, reflecting on the 30-year journey of Financial Independence Planning (FIP). What began as a simple vision—helping people achieve financial freedom—has grown into a vibrant, thriving community that feels more l …

Tariffs and Your Wealth: What You Should Know

For those who’ve worked hard, saved diligently, and built meaningful financial security, understanding economic policies like tariffs can help protect what you’ve earned. Tariffs- taxes on imported goods- might seem like a distant political issue, but they can have real impacts …