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Monday, October 14, 2019

There are some people who scorn being nice (a.k.a. amiable, agreeable, pleasant). They equate it with being uninteresting or boring. What they fail to understand is being nice is often more challenging than the alternative. Years ago,...

 

Monday, October 7, 2019

A Planet Money staffer asked a couple of Harvard professors what small things they would do to improve the world. These two ideas are counterintuitive, but backed by science. • Sign forms at the top rather than the bottom. Signing...

 

Friday, October 4, 2019

I recently read this article from Andy Ives of The Slott Report about Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) and thought I would pass it along because in my opinion it is concise, clear and accurate. If you have any questions or would...

 

Monday, September 30, 2019

When people travel, decisions about where to stay are determined by location, price, and amenities. One valued perk is loyalty points. While there is no official valuation assigned to reward points, estimates of value range from 0.3...

 

Monday, September 23, 2019

WHAT’S YOUR GIG? In a 2018 issue of the Harvard Business Review, an independent consultant compared working in the gig economy (a labor market characterized by the prevalence of short-term contracts or freelance work as opposed...

 

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Monday, September 16, 2019

Americans spend a lot of time at work. The Bureau of Labor Statistics’ 2018 American Time Use Survey reported people employed full-time worked 8-1/2 hours on weekdays, on average, and almost 5-1/2 hours on weekend days (when they...

 

Monday, September 9, 2019

If you’re of the generation that believes money is a taboo topic, stop reading. If you’ve encountered some perplexing money issues and want to learn more about money-related social etiquette, read on. Issue: The bride and...

 

Tuesday, September 3, 2019

At the turn of the 19th century, some economists thought negative interest rates made sense, according to The Economist. In 1916, Silvio Gesell published The Natural Economic Order, a pamphlet promoting the idea of negative interest...

 

Monday, August 26, 2019

You’ve probably been hearing and reading a lot about Woodstock, the iconic 1969 music festival. Americans have been celebrating the event’s 50th anniversary. In August 1969, Woodstock staged 32 acts, attracted 400,000...

 

Monday, August 19, 2019

When people take items that have been discarded and turn them into something of greater value, it’s known as upcycling. Repurposing objects is appealing to people who want to live sustainably, people who embrace creativity,...

 

Friday, August 16, 2019

This weekend marks the 50th anniversary of Woodstock, three days that came to define a generation. While the anniversary concert has been cancelled for this weekend, the legacy lives on with relevancy and significance in our world...

 

Monday, August 12, 2019

The global bond market deserves a spot in a believe-it-or-not museum, right next to the bathythermograph, radioactive vodka (brewed with Chernobyl grain), and 526 extra teeth recently removed from a youngster’s jaw. Here’s...

 

Monday, August 5, 2019

Flight attendants and frequent fliers have some crazy stories to tell. Lets Fly Cheaper, Business Insider, and Point Me To The Plane reported on some of the strange things flight attendants have experienced, including: • Medicated...

 

Monday, July 29, 2019

Anyone who has ever suffered an earworm (known in scientific circles as Involuntary Musical Imagery) understands the power of music. Some tunes that repeatedly pop into people’s heads may include: • It’s a Small World...

 

Monday, July 22, 2019

If you were in a region of the United States that didn’t experience some of the hottest and most humid weather in years over the weekend, count your lucky stars. The Washington Post reported, “The heat wave...comes in the...

 

Friday, July 19, 2019

As we head in to a nearly nationwide heat wave this weekend, we wanted to pass along important information about how to stay safe as the “feels like” temps are projected to reach 115 degrees! Night time temperatures...

 

Monday, July 15, 2019

Sneakers play an important role in the film Holes. Stanley Yelnats IV is arrested for stealing a pair and his father, Stanley Yelnats III, spends his time trying to invent a cure for sneaker odor. The Yelnats would probably be...

 

Friday, July 12, 2019

As we hit the peak of beach season, we wanted to send you with a list of the best books of the summer to take along with you. Please send along your reviews of these books as well as your own recommendations! “Mostly Dead...

 

Monday, July 8, 2019

Americans and smartphones - the crowd favorite among mobile devices. Eighty-five percent of U.S. participants in the 2018 Deloitte Global Mobile Survey owned smartphones and checked their phones about 14 billion times a day. Which...

 

Monday, July 1, 2019

The United States and China have resumed trade talks, but it could be a while before things settle - and all tariffs may not be removed even if talks are successful. Since, there is a lot of misinformation floating around about tariffs...

 

Friday, June 28, 2019

It is hard to believe that when we return from the weekend it will be July! We hope that you enjoy what appears to be another glorious weather weekend ahead. While we are now in the second half of 2019 we wanted to share with you...

 

Tuesday, June 25, 2019

I am excited to share my recent interview and profile of Parks Wealth Management which appeared in LPL Magazine. I hope you enjoy the read! Interview with LPL Magazine

 

Monday, June 24, 2019

You may have heard: Sommaroey Island in Norway may do away with time. Residents of the island don’t experience time as people elsewhere do. From May to July, the sun doesn’t set on Sommaroey. From November to January, it...

 

Monday, June 17, 2019

In 2012, filmmaker James Cameron brought attention to the Mariana Trench, the deepest point on Earth (6.8 miles down), when he took a solo dive into its depths. The seafloor of the abyss also has been visited by at least one plastic...

 

Monday, June 10, 2019

You may not have noticed, but the average cost of weddings has risen sharply - and not just for the bride and groom and their parents. Costs have also increased for members of the wedding party and guests. One reason for rising costs...

 

Friday, June 7, 2019

In December 2008, the United Nations General Assembly passed a resolution officially recognizing June 8th as World Oceans Day. Since then this global day of recognition has grown in both its scope and impact focusing on protecting and...

 

Monday, June 3, 2019

Some people love cats. Some people love dogs. Some people believe your preference offers insight to your personality. You have probably heard variations on this idea. WebMD offered the example that cat owners are open, curious,...

 

Tuesday, May 28, 2019

Last week I had the privilege to travel to Washington, DC as a member of LPL's bi-partisan executive team working to advocate for improved legislation within the financial services industry. I am honored to be a member of this team...

 

Tuesday, May 28, 2019

Like competitive gaming and Ultimate Frisbee, some may categorize pillow fighting as an activity rather than a sport. Jack Tarrant and Yoko Kono of Reuters described the last week’s All Japan Pillow Fighting Championship...

 

Monday, May 20, 2019

In March, Mercer published its 21st Quality of Living Survey. The goal is to help multinational corporations with data that can help them optimize their global operations. The survey considers factors like safety, housing, recreation,...

 

Monday, May 13, 2019

In The Wisdom of Crowds, James Surowiecki shared a story about Francis Galton, a Victorian-era statistician and scientist whose “...experiments left him with little faith in the intelligence of the average person.” Jacob...

 

Monday, May 6, 2019

Last week, the Federal Reserve Open Market Committee statement indicated inflation was below target levels. The report stated, “On a 12-month basis, overall inflation and inflation for items other than food and energy have...

 

Monday, April 29, 2019

Some countries stockpile goods they have deemed essential for human survival. For instance, Switzerland has been stockpiling coffee, sugar, rice, edible oils, and animal feed since World War II. Earlier this month, the country changed...

 

Friday, April 26, 2019

Today we celebrate National Arbor Day which was designated a formal holiday by President Nixon in 1972 as a day dedicated to planting trees. Nixon wrote in his proclamation that "Arbor Day uniquely symbolizes the truth that the earth...

 

Monday, April 22, 2019

A special item went up for sale on a popular online market, last week. It’s a 15-foot, 68 million-year-old skeleton of a juvenile Tyrannosaurus rex, according to The Washington Post. The ‘buy it now’ price is $2,950...

 

Monday, April 15, 2019

People make everyday decisions based on the information they possess at any given moment, explained The Economist. As understanding of an issue changes, so do the decisions people make. For example, a lot of people dislike plastic...

 

Monday, April 8, 2019

Researchers tested the relationship between mental health and exercise by collecting self-reported data from 1.2 million Americans. They discovered exercise - including everything from childcare and housework to weight lifting and...

 

Friday, April 5, 2019

Now that you have likely submitted your tax returns and have that tedious task behind you, it is a great time spring clean your finances and ensure all is in order for the coming year. Here are some tips to help tidy up! Secure your...

 

Monday, April 1, 2019

You may not have given it much thought, but it costs money to make money. In fact, the costs of the metals required to make some U.S. coins is higher than the value of the coins! George Washington and Abraham Lincoln might not approve,...

 

Monday, March 25, 2019

The 2019 United Nation’s World Happiness Report was published last week. The Finns remain the happiest people in the world. In fact, happiness in Finland has been trending higher since 2014. People in Denmark and Norway also are...

 

Monday, March 18, 2019

The 2018 Insights on Wealth and Worth survey provided some startling information about the priorities of high net worth (HNW) investors. More than one-half (54 percent) indicated long-term capital appreciation was a higher priority...

 

Monday, March 11, 2019

Okay, maybe it’s not scintillating, but it has some pretty interesting stories. The March 2019 installation - it’s published eight times a year - includes real world stories about businesses and workers gathered by Federal...

 

Friday, March 8, 2019

Although recession calls have grown louder over the past several months, mounting evidence suggests that this economic cycle could persevere at least through the end of 2019. The U.S. labor market remains solid, U.S. manufacturing...

 

Monday, March 4, 2019

Depending on your age, the 1980s may be a nostalgic chapter in your life or the wellspring of amusing photos of your Miami-Vice clad, lace-gloved parents. The 80s are known for more than MTV, yuppies, sci-fi movies, and cell phones the...

 

Friday, March 1, 2019

Aging well takes some effort, especially when it comes to changing your diet. Learn the importance of keeping an eye on what you eat to ensure optimal health. As you get older, your body's nutritional needs begin to change....

 

Monday, February 25, 2019

Salt water has an economic impact due to sea levels rising at a more rapid rate during the past three decades, according to the U.S. Global Change Research Program’s Climate Science Special Report. Since 1900, sea levels have...

 

Friday, February 22, 2019

I recently listened to a podcast with guest Todd Herman, an accomplished author, advisor and entrepreneur who helps high level athletes, leaders and executives unlock peak performance. He has a fascinating approach and perspective and...

 

Tuesday, February 19, 2019

You’re at the checkout. How do you pay for your purchase? Do you reach for a credit card, debit card, cash, check, or some form of electronic payment, such as a mobile wallet or wearable? The Federal Reserve Bank of San...

 

Monday, February 11, 2019

Author and illustrator Liz Fosslien has thought a lot about economics and Valentine’s Day. In ‘14 Ways an Economist Says I Love You,’ she offers this advice: Give your loved one a nerdy Valentine and they'll be yours...

 

Friday, February 8, 2019

This Thursday is Valentine's Day, and what a long way we have come from the first related celebrations! For example, in the 6th century BC, Roman priests sacrificed goats and dogs and slapped women in the streets with their bloody...

 

Monday, February 4, 2019

Time Magazine asked its editors and correspondents to nominate inventions that are making the world smarter and more fun. The magazine whittled down the suggestions to 50 inventions it considers to be the very best. They include:...

 

Friday, February 1, 2019

The Super Bowl indicator suggests that stocks rise for the full year when the Super Bowl winner comes from the original National Football League (now the NFC), but when an original American Football League (now the AFC) team wins,...

 

Monday, January 28, 2019

Last November, BBC commentator Chris Mason reflected the frustration of a nation with his report on the rapidly approaching deadline for the British exit from the European Union (EU). He said: “So, where are we in all of this...

 

Tuesday, January 22, 2019

Purchasing power parity, or PPP, is a straightforward idea with a tongue twister of a name. When two countries have PPP, people pay the same amount for the same goods, after adjusting for the exchange rate. For example, if one British...

 

Monday, January 21, 2019

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was a complex man who took an unconventional approach to a difficult problem. He used non-violent protests to focus attention on civil rights in the United States. While he fought the status quo, he...

 

Friday, January 18, 2019

With our first snowstorm of 2019 looming, we thought we'd share five of our favorite articles from the week to help pass the time, entertain you or even inspire you! Click on the links below to read each article. "The Unbearable...

 

Monday, January 14, 2019

Every year brings unexpected events. Here are a few remarkable stories you may have missed in 2018: Abuzz in NYC“...a menacing horde of honeybees descended on a hot dog vendor’s umbrella, bringing Times Square to a...

 

Monday, January 7, 2019

The Economist recently explored whether there was a basis for the idea that Americans who live in mid-western states are more congenial than people from other states. The publication explained ‘Midwest nice’ this way,...

 

Monday, December 17, 2018

Around the holidays, it’s easy to become stressed and overwhelmed. Psychology Today offered some suggestions that may help you stay merry and bright, no matter what the season brings. 1. Don’t lose sight of what makes you...

 

Friday, December 14, 2018

As we start to wind down 2018, it is natural to look past these last frenzied weeks and start making resolutions and promises for an even better 2019. With only around 8% of people actually keeping their New Year’s resolutions...

 

Monday, December 10, 2018

Elizabeth Dunn, associate psychology professor at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, Canada, and Michael Norton, associate marketing professor at Harvard Business School, have been studying whether people should spend...

 

Monday, December 3, 2018

If you’re a pet owner - and most Americans are - you may be looking for the perfect holiday gift for your dog, cat, bird, bunny, or reptile. Some pet owners will spring for a heated pet bed, a sparkling holiday sweater, or a new...

 

Monday, November 26, 2018

Take a guess: How many hours do Americans work each year relative to Europeans? Here are a few hints provided by The Economist and Expatica: • The average American has 23 vacation days each year.• The Spanish and the Swedes...

 

Monday, November 19, 2018

John List, an economist at the University of Chicago and Chief Economist for a ride-sharing app, needed to go from his house to the hotel where he was a keynote speaker. So, of course, he called his ride-sharing company. The experience...

 

Monday, October 29, 2018

A recent Pew Research Center survey found younger people (ages 18 to 49) were better able to distinguish facts from opinions than older people. Jeffrey Gottfried at Pew reported, “About a third of 18- to 49-year-olds (32 percent)...

 

Monday, October 22, 2018

NEW TREND: PETS AND FINANCIAL PLANNING. Animals have played important roles in human lives for centuries. They provide companionship, comic relief, work assistance, transportation, reassurance, protection, and food. Today,...

 

Monday, October 15, 2018

It’s important to recognize when daily challenges affect our ability to cope and take steps to lower stress when they do. The Mayo Clinic recommends laughter, “Whether you're guffawing at a sitcom on TV or quietly giggling...

 

Friday, October 12, 2018

We are excited to introduce our friend Gail Waesche Kislevitz; author, lifelong runner, friend and neighbor. Gail has just released her latest book, Running Past Fifty. The title of the book is misleading. Anyone of any age who feels...

 

Monday, October 8, 2018

Athletes who grew up playing pick-up games of baseball, kickball, basketball, street hockey, and other sports with neighborhood kids may have had some advantages they didn’t recognize. A Brazilian research study, cited by...

 

Monday, October 1, 2018

Don’t worry. This isn’t about soul-searching and trying to find answers to existential questions like, ‘Who am I?’ or ‘What is my purpose?’ or ‘How should I live my life?’ Nope. This is...

 

Monday, September 24, 2018

Gen Xers and the Silent Generation get a lot less press than Millennials, but all three generations have one thing in common. According to comedian Adam Conover, "Generations in general don't exist. They're not real things that exist...

 

Friday, September 21, 2018

Volunteering can be a great way to keep you active and feel good about giving back to your community. There are a range of different volunteer opportunities out there that you can find based on your skills and interests. Here are some...

 

Friday, September 14, 2018

With Hurricane Florence bearing down on the Carolinas, it's probably a good time for people living near the coasts to reevaluate their financial preparedness for a hurricane. While it's easy to assume that your homeowner's policy will...

 

Friday, August 17, 2018

College marks a great milestone in a child's life. It may be the first time he or she will live away from home. Dropping off your child at college may be an experience loaded with emotions, so here are a few tips for a smoother...

 

Tuesday, August 14, 2018

In July, we hosted a brunch and seminar at the Ridgewood Country Club for our clients and friends. The seminar focused on identity theft and keeping ourselves and our information safe. We were joined by FBI Agent Migliaccio who is an...

 

Friday, August 10, 2018

Dan Buettner, a researcher, National Geographic fellow and multiple New York Times bestselling author became curious about research conducted that found five areas in the world where inhabitants live exceptionally longer and healthier...

 

Friday, August 3, 2018

The surprise summer rally continues, as the S&P 500 Index is on pace to gain for a fourth consecutive month. In fact, should July close in the green, over the past 21 months, the S&P 500 has closed higher all but three times. Here is...

 

Friday, July 27, 2018

Summer. If you ask most of us what summer means, chances are words like vacation, relaxation, recharging, family and fun will lead the conversation, evoking thoughts of beaches, pools, palm trees and umbrella drinks. It's ironic then...

 

Thursday, July 12, 2018

Presenting the LPL Research Midyear Outlook 2018: The Plot Thickens, packed with investment insights and market analysis to guide you through all the action we may see in the year ahead.

 

Tuesday, July 3, 2018

If you could extend your life by a decade just by changing a handful of habits, would you do it? It seems like a "no-brainer"--of course you would! But as you might expect, the five things that Harvard scientists say will prolong our...

 

Thursday, June 14, 2018

There are many perceived requirements of being a dad. “One of the jobs of a good dad is to help kids become a little tougher, a little more resilient, a little more separate…dads push kids to leave the nest; they brush off the dirt...

 

Friday, June 8, 2018

The official start of summer is just around the corner and that means an excuse to eat ice cream as often as we want! Have you ever wondered what your favorite flavor and your preferred way to eat it says about you? The ice cream...

 

Wednesday, June 6, 2018

The words ‘bear market’ have been bandied about a lot lately. When you read or hear them, remember to respond the same way you would if you saw an actual bear in the woods – by staying calm and keeping your wits about you. A changing...

 

Friday, May 25, 2018

This is an exciting time of year on campuses across the country as colleges and universities graduate their class of 2018. Nearly 2 million bachelor degrees will be handed out on the campuses of around 5,300 post-secondary institutions...

 

Thursday, May 24, 2018

If you’ve ever composed a grocery list in your head while driving carpool and listening to your children discuss who got in trouble at school and why, then you know what it’s like to have your attention divided. If you’ve ever worked...

 

Monday, May 21, 2018

Last week, the fifth edition of the Billionaire Census was released. Apparently, the wealth of billionaires increased by 24 percent during 2017. In addition, the billionaire population, which had suffered reduced numbers since 2015,...

 

Friday, May 18, 2018

Quietly, over the past few months, records have been shattered and unthinkable barriers have been broken. The stories are easy to miss, a blurb in a local paper, perhaps a quick mention in the national news arena. Maybe they are even...

 

Friday, May 11, 2018

This Sunday, we celebrate Mom! We send cards, take her to brunch, shower her with gifts and flowers and make sure she feels loved and appreciated. It is a day to recognize all of the women in our lives—our mothers, sisters,...

 

Thursday, May 10, 2018

Mother’s Day is almost here! We all have moms and, whether they gave birth to us or not, they have helped us become the people we are today. Here are 10 reasons moms are so important, adapted from Psychology Today:11. She gave birth to...

 

Monday, May 7, 2018

Founders of new companies aren't who many people think they are. Sure, you've read stories about entrepreneurs who leave college to found companies that become behemoths. In fact, The Thiel Fellowship encourages young people to skip...

 

Friday, May 4, 2018

This is a story that is difficult to share, but an important one to us here at Parks Wealth Management. Ania’s good friends were suddenly jarred with the diagnosis of a Stage IV neuroblastoma for their 2-year old son Cole. There...

 

Monday, April 30, 2018

In February, a new research paper disclosed a finding no one wants to hear about: Viruses are falling from the sky. Literally. Science Daily summarized a report from the University of British Columbia. The report said: "An astonishing...

 

Saturday, April 28, 2018

Understanding family attitudes towards money may improve financial decisions and reduce financial stress. Understanding family attitudes towards money may improve financial decisions and reduce financial stress. People inherit more...

 

Monday, April 23, 2018

Throughout history, people have eaten bugs. According to National Geographic, hunter-gatherers probably learned which insects were edible by watching birds. People's appetite for bugs didn't disappear as they became more civilized....

 

Monday, April 16, 2018

Your preference for pop, country, opera, classic rock, or some other type of music may provide clues to your personality, according to an article in Psychological Science entitled 'Musical Preferences Predict Personality.'...

 

Friday, April 13, 2018

What do the Yankees and the stock market have in common? The start of baseball season brings with it warmer weather, later sunsets, carefree days...and the inevitable obsession with the statistics covering every aspect of the game and...

 

Tuesday, April 10, 2018

On a Personal Note from Anne McDonnell... Hello! I am excited to introduce myself as the newest team member at Parks Wealth Management. My name is Anne McDonnell, and I live in Ridgewood with my husband Patrick and our two children...

 

Thursday, April 5, 2018

Technology is a life changer. GPS has improved interpersonal relations by eliminating arguments about asking for directions. Apps for car services, food delivery, video streaming, news media, and social media have changed the way we...

 

Wednesday, March 28, 2018

“There’s no place like home.”1Conjuring an image of ‘home’ was a lot easier for Dorothy than it is for people who are on the cusp of retirement. After all, isn’t retirement supposed to be a new start? Aren’t retirees supposed to wave...

 

Tuesday, March 20, 2018

As we begin tax season, we are here to help you prepare, providing the tools to educate and engage your clients so that you all experience as painless a tax season as possible. To ease some of the burdens of tax season, LPL prepared...

 

Wednesday, March 14, 2018

It’s almost time to don green and gold. That’s right, March 17 is upon us. There’s more to the holiday, however, than eating corned beef and cabbage and celebrating the Irish. For instance, St. Patrick is the patron saint of Ireland,...

 

Tuesday, February 27, 2018

Here’s a number most people would like to see on an annual statement: 21.6 percent. That was the annual return for the Standard & Poor (S&P) 500 Index during 2017. In general, U.S. stock indices did quite well last year – and the year...

 

Monday, February 12, 2018

If you’re looking for a gift that will express your love better than chocolates or a bouquet of flowers, don’t fret. Trendhunter.com has some innovative and unconventional suggestions:• Literary love tattoos. Perhaps, you’d like Rainer...

 

Tuesday, January 30, 2018

Here’s a riddle for you: Some people are reluctant to start me, unless I’m automatic. I’m frequently exhausted when I don’t roll over. I’m sometimes left behind. Retirees devour me. What am I? Answer: A retirement savings plan.New jobs...

 

Thursday, January 11, 2018

Most Americans know Martin Luther King, Jr. was a Baptist minister and the leader of the Civil Rights Movement in the United States until he was assassinated in 1968. Test your knowledge with this quiz about Dr. King.1. Before...

 

Wednesday, January 3, 2018

Fifteen years ago, a Health Services Research report described the challenges ahead for the United States as the Baby Boom generation aged into retirement. Four issues were paramount: 1) improving payment and insurance systems for...

 

Thursday, December 28, 2017

The last bear market in bonds began in the middle of the last century and lasted for about 31 years. Some investors who bought bonds in 1950 locked in relatively low rates of return for a very long time. On January 1, 1950, 10-year U.S...

 

Thursday, December 28, 2017

New years bring new adventures, and 2018 is no different. To paraphrase Ed Sullivan: 2018 could be a really big year. Here are a few of the events we can look forward to:• Men’s World Cup in Russia. CBS’s power rankings put Brazil at...

 

Wednesday, December 20, 2017

“The holidays are often seen as a time of joy: ruddy cheeks, festive parties, and twinkling laughter, all wrapped in a warm, tinsel-framed glow. It’s the most wonderful time of the year! It may be the ‘season to be jolly,’ but not...

 

Wednesday, November 29, 2017

There is a simple and unsettling reality in the United States. Most Americans are not financially prepared for retirement. There is a simple and unsettling reality in the United States. Most Americans are not financially prepared for...

 

Sunday, November 19, 2017

Thanksgiving is the mother of all family dinners. It’s a celebration of our great nation and the many blessings that occur when people unite together in the spirit of communication. As you’re gathered around the table this year, here’s...

 

Wednesday, November 8, 2017

All too often, we assume the men and women who fought for our country can take care of themselves. Unfortunately, that isn’t always the case. There are some important ways ordinary Americans can help those who are returning from battle...

 

Monday, October 30, 2017

Retirement and Social Security are inextricably linked. Not only did Social Security help establish the official U.S. retirement age at 65, it also provides a significant portion of today’s retirees’ incomes. Retirement and Social...

 

Friday, October 27, 2017

Halloween is almost upon us! Whether you’re wearing a costume, decorating your yard/house, or handing out treats, you won’t be alone. More than 179 million Americans are expected to participate in 2017’s Halloween festivities – and...

 

Wednesday, October 4, 2017

Smartphones are incredibly handy. That may be why about three of every four Americans own them.1 On average, smartphone users spend almost three hours a day – 86 hours every month – using their phones. They send texts and email,...

 

Thursday, September 28, 2017

How times change! In 1940, half of Americans finished their education in eighth grade. College degrees were relatively rare. Just 6 percent of men and 4 percent of women had one.1During the past 80 years, college has become far more...

 

Thursday, August 31, 2017

Labor Day is about a lot more than the end of summer and the start of a new school year. The holiday, which celebrates American workers, became a federal holiday in 1894 and was created to recognize the contributions and achievements...

 

Wednesday, August 30, 2017

In a 2002 interview with Mike Wallace, former First Lady Nancy Reagan said she often reread the love letters written by her husband, former President Ronald Reagan. The letters, which had sustained and enriched their relationship,...

 

Friday, July 28, 2017

While some may be concerned about the iconic American meat that arrives in a rectangular 12-ounce tin (and is inexplicably popular in certain island states and American territories), more should be wary of its namesake – the spam that...

 

Wednesday, July 12, 2017

The idea of Artificial Intelligence (AI) may bring to mind movies like Terminator, Wall-E, and Transcendence, but the reality of AI is expected to help people find answers to some significant issues. For example, a PwC survey found:1 •...

 

Friday, June 30, 2017

On July 4, 1776, the American colonies claimed independence from Britain. This declaration eventually led to the formation of the United States. As we celebrate the birth of our great nation, test your knowledge with this brief quiz.1...

 

Thursday, June 29, 2017

The bull market in U.S. stocks has been charging ahead for more than eight years.1 While that’s young in people years, it’s ancient in bull market terms. Since World War II, the longest bull market in U.S. stocks lasted for almost...

 

Thursday, June 15, 2017

You’re probably familiar with ‘20 Questions.’ It’s a classic long-distance-car-trip game that encourages creativity and deductive reasoning. On this Father’s Day, try playing a version that can help you learn a lot more about your...

 

Tuesday, May 30, 2017

Wouldn’t it be something if you could plump up your retirement savings as easily as you can put on a few pounds eating fast food? Here’s one way to do it: Open a health savings account (HSA). It offers a triple tax advantage and you...

 

Thursday, May 25, 2017

Memorial Day is a day of remembrance for those who have given their lives in the service of our country. See what you know about Memorial Day by answering a few questions from an AARP quiz.1 1. Memorial Day was created to honor...

 

Thursday, May 11, 2017

Changing diapers, arranging play dates, driving car pools, calming squabbling siblings, attending musicals and sporting events, chaperoning proms, coaching teams, helping with college applications…moms have a lot of responsibilities....

 

Thursday, April 27, 2017

We are all, inexorably, marching toward old age. By 2030, 72 million Americans will be age 65 or older.1 The good news is longevity has been improving, and people are remaining healthy and vibrant at older ages. The bad news is...

 

Monday, April 3, 2017

Some people may name a medical device or implant, such as a hearing aid, an artificial joint, or a pacemaker. Others may say they couldn't live without their electric bikes, GPS devices, tablets, or food processors. A surprisingly...

 

Thursday, March 30, 2017

It’s tax season! Every year, around this time, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) publishes its dirty dozen – a list of scams criminals use to try and ferret out personal information and/or steal money.1 For example, if you received an...

 

Tuesday, March 21, 2017

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Feb. 28, 2017 – LPL Financial is proud to announce that the firm and its advisors have been ranked No. 1 in net customer loyalty among 24 leading financial distributor firms, according to findings from...

 

Wednesday, March 15, 2017

It has been said everyone in America is Irish on St. Patrick’s Day. Whether you have Irish ancestry or merely enjoy a good celebration, test your knowledge of the old country by taking this quiz. 1. What is Gaeltacht?1a. A region of...

 

Monday, February 27, 2017

More than one-half of working Americans know little or nothing about Medicare costs.1 Not knowing can be expensive. On average, people who haven’t yet retired estimate they’ll spend approximately $50,000 on health care after retirement...

 

Friday, February 10, 2017

The celebration of Valentine’s Day is attributed to Geoffrey Chaucer who wrote a poem about love and St. Valentine in the 1300s. Although this poem did not mention chocolate, the tasty treats have since become a Valentine’s Day...

 

Monday, January 30, 2017

How many times did you login to a digital account today? It probably was more than once. Some people access digital sites via computer or tablet, but many others rely on their phones. Deloitte recently reported the essentials of life...

 

Thursday, January 12, 2017

In 1964, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. received the Nobel Peace Prize. He accepted the award and took the opportunity to articulate his hope the civil rights movement would be successful, as well as his hope for all mankind:1 “…I must...

 

Tuesday, January 3, 2017

…And, it may have some thorns. There’s something you should know about retirement. It’s not as easy as everyone makes it seem. Remember what life was like when you tied the knot? How about once you had children? Or, when you accepted a...

 

Thursday, December 29, 2016

Holiday Greeting - The Way You Eat in 2017 What can we expect in the New Year? If international food consultancy Baum + Whiteman is correct, we may find ourselves embracing new food trends including:1 • Restaurants without seats. We...

 

Thursday, December 29, 2016

Retirement IncomeHere’s a million dollar question: How will you transform your savings into income that will last throughout your retirement?1There are probably as many answers to that question as there are retirees. However, all...

 

Wednesday, December 21, 2016

We hope your holidays will be filled with family, friends, merry-making, and good cheer. One way to ensure a happy holiday season is to stay safe online. Here are a few tips that may help. 1. When using public Wi-Fi at a hotel, coffee...

 

Tuesday, November 29, 2016

For about 35 years, investors have enjoyed a bull market in bonds. At the start of 1982, the interest rate on 10-year U.S. Treasury bonds was 14.2 percent. By November 1, 2016, interest rates had fallen to 1.8 percent.1 Since bond...

 

Tuesday, November 22, 2016

Thanksgiving is America’s second favorite holiday,1 and it offers something for everyone. You can enjoy family togetherness, feasting, football, school plays, parades, gratitude, and, of course, shopping. If you’re a traditionalist,...

 

Wednesday, November 9, 2016

“American soldiers in battle don’t fight for what some president says on TV. They don’t fight for Mom, apple pie, the American flag. They fight for one another. ”1 Stars and Stripes used the words of Lieutenant Colonel Harold “Hal”...

 

Friday, October 28, 2016

In the 1970s, a TV episode of The Odd Couple taught viewers never to assume.1 It’s a lesson we appear to have forgotten. Many Americans assume Medicare will provide financial assistance to help with long-term care costs in retirement....

 

Thursday, October 27, 2016

People of a certain age will remember ‘It’s The Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown.’ The animated television special debuted in 1966,1 way back when there were only a few channels and you had to get out of your seat to change them from one...

 

Friday, September 30, 2016

That’s how much Americans had spent on pain relief medications and treatments when the Institute of Medicine (IOM) completed its report in 2011. If you factor in lost productivity, the economic cost of pain rose to more than $560...

 

Thursday, September 29, 2016

If you ask people what creates stress in their lives, money is often at the top of the list. Stress in America: Paying With Our Health found money was a somewhat or a very significant source of stress in the lives of 64 percent of...

 

Thursday, July 28, 2016

Most investors are familiar with the maxim ‘buy low and sell high.’ The unfortunate reality is that it’s a difficult principle to follow. Buying low often means investing in a company when its shares are priced below full value.Of...

 

Tuesday, July 5, 2016

Would you accompany a group of high school students studying photojournalism and social change in Argentina? How about a group learning about language and culinary traditions in France? Does working for a season or two in a great place...

 

Thursday, June 30, 2016

Our Founding Fathers structured American democracy and left a legacy that has greatly influenced the world. This Fourth of July, see what you know about the Founding Fathers by taking this brief quiz. 1. Who were America’s Founding...

 

Wednesday, June 29, 2016

You may be asking yourself whether that’s a trick question. After all, almost one-third of 18- to 34-year-olds are still living at home with their parents. It is, in fact, the most common living arrangement for this age group and a...

 

Friday, June 17, 2016

For several years, researchers at Boston College have been studying the experiences and expectations of fathers. As you might suspect, the way in which men understand the role of ‘Dad’ has been changing. While some still believe their...

 

Tuesday, May 31, 2016

In medieval times, alchemists sought methods for transforming ordinary metals into gold. Today, just about every adult searches for a means of transforming savings into a retirement’s worth of income. Recently, they received help from...

 

Friday, May 27, 2016

Before the big barbecue, take time this Memorial Day weekend to honor the men and women who gave their lives fighting for our country. If you’re looking for a way to remember those brave Americans, here are a few suggestions:1 • Raise...

 

Friday, May 6, 2016

Scientists have been mapping our mothers’ brains! They haven’t found eyes in the back of her head, or a way to help her worry less, but they are beginning to understand the mother-child bond better:1 “After centuries of observing...

 

Sunday, May 1, 2016

Super Bowl winners, the length of hemlines, and Sports Illustrated covers – all of these have been used to develop theories about the direction in which stock markets may be headed. Presidential elections and terms have also inspired a...

 

Thursday, April 7, 2016

If you receive a voice or email message from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), or you field a phone call from an IRS agent informing you “you owe back taxes” and “you better pay now or be arrested (or deported)...

 

Thursday, March 31, 2016

College students have steep learning curves. In high school, they were tasked with doing well academically, participating in extracurricular activities, complying with the rules of their parents’ homes and, possibly, having a job...

 

Tuesday, March 15, 2016

If wars were fought with words, Ireland would be ruling the world. --Irish proverb1 The wit and humor of the Irish is legendary, as is their ability to weave words into poems, prose, folk tales, and song. On this St. Patrick’s...

 

Friday, February 26, 2016

It’s almost tax time. During April, many people take advantage of the opportunity to reduce taxes by funding a Traditional IRA. While that makes sense for some Americans, others may benefit by contributing to a Roth IRA that...

 

Friday, February 12, 2016

Are you looking for just the right Valentine’s Day message for someone you love? Here are a few suggestions that have a decidedly financial twist from 14 Ways an Economist Says I Love You by Liz Fosslien. The messages are...

 

Friday, January 29, 2016

The world’s first central bank offered unprecedented convenience. It gave 17th century Swedes the option to pay with paper notes rather than 40-pound copper plates, which were the currency units of the Swedish empire at the time....

 

Thursday, January 14, 2016

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was a complex man who took an unconventional approach to a difficult problem. He used non-violent protests to focus attention on civil rights in the United States. While he fought the status quo, he...

 

Thursday, January 7, 2016

Understanding 2016’s Higher Medicare Part B PremiumsOne-in-seven Medicare enrollees will pay higher Medicare Part B monthly premiums during 2016. Their premiums will be $121.80 each month, an increase of 16 percent. While...

 

Thursday, December 31, 2015

From early Babylonians to present-day Americans, people have been celebrating the beginning of every new year for almost four thousand years!1 Here are a few ways people celebrate the holiday in the United States:2 61 percent of...

 

Tuesday, December 22, 2015

December is full of high spirits and good cheer. If you browse online, you’ll find some surprising holidays amidst more well-known celebrations. Just in case you need more reasons to celebrate the season, here is a list of major...

 

Wednesday, November 18, 2015

Thanksgiving traditions aren’t quite as straightforward as the elementary school plays about Pilgrims and Native Americans sharing a feast would have us believe. History.com suggests that’s because Thanksgiving is,...

 

Friday, October 30, 2015

Veterans are skilled leaders and problem solvers who have a lot to offer in and out of the service. Got Your 6, a campaign to empower veterans in America, offered some interesting insights about the men and women who have chosen to...

 

Monday, October 26, 2015

You may have heard of tax loss harvesting. Some people harvest losses every year, while others do so only when they have taken significant capital gains or have received more income than expected during a given year (perhaps they sold...

 

Monday, October 19, 2015

A number you’re probably not looking for is 1.5 billion. That’s the number of pounds of pumpkins grown every year. History.com said that’s more than twice the weight of the Empire State Building. Here are a few other interesting...