The markets stay hot. Brian discusses the difference between emotions and goals. The Big Beautiful Act changes Obamacare premiums. Understanding the dollar. What does it mean to be asset rich and cash poor? Impacts of the Big Beautiful act on charitable giving. 

Despite challenging weather, the economy could gain momentum once the tariff "deadline" passes, with the One Big Beautiful Bill’s tax incentives spurring investment and growth. Join Brian Jacobsen for our Week-in-Review. Plus, meet the newest member of the Annex Private Client team, explore six key benefits of trusts, learn how Annex supports clients planning a part-time retirement, and discover ways grandparents can financially support their grandchildren.

The NFIB Small Business Optimism Index dipped slightly in July, with "taxes" emerging as the top concern for small businesses—though recent policy changes may ease this burden. Plus, the NY Fed’s June survey reveals year-ahead inflation expectations have cooled to 3%. Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen present our Week-in-Review. Learn more about our portfolio review process, key person insurance, and how to plan for retirement without a 401k. 

Economists anticipated a slowdown in job growth due to uncertainties surrounding trade and fiscal policies, but the data tells a different story. Brian Jacobsen shares insights in our Week-in-Review. This episode also covers key topics, including the steps to selling a business, the role of a Certified Divorce Financial Analyst at Annex, strategies for successfully transitioning ownership of a family vacation property, and tips for dividing passion assets to prevent family conflicts.

The Fed initially suggested that tariffs would gradually raise prices while slowing growth more gradually. However, recent trends show growth declining faster than inflation is rising. In our Week-in-Review, Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen discuss this shift and other key topics. The episode also concludes our Financial Jargon series, explores the 4% rule, reviews Warren Buffett’s perspective on inheritance, and highlights connections between better health and lower taxes.

Recent data, including negative first-quarter GDP growth, rising initial jobless claims, and declining consumer inflation, suggests a case for a rate cut rather than a pause. However, the Federal Reserve opted to pause. Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen discuss this in our Week-in-Review. Also on the show, learn how Annex tailors investment and retirement planning to your needs. What is a HENRY, and how can Annex support them? Plus, we debunk myths about trusts and explore reasons to stop financially supporting adult children.

On Friday morning, news of Israel's strike on Iran greeted most, heightening investor concerns. In line with historical trends, bond yields have dropped, oil prices have climbed, and stock markets have faced declines. In this Week-in-Review, Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen share their perspectives. The program also delves into the rising trend of "gray divorce" among older adults, evaluates the wisdom of including cryptocurrency in 401(k) plans, and examines the Great Boomer Wealth Transfer. Additionally, we offer insights on avoiding retirement letdowns and explain how chasing "rich" might hinder true wealth-building.

The Federal Reserve's Beige Book reported a slight decline in economic activity, a phrase last used in November 2023, which foreshadowed the economic slowdown in Q1 2024. Uncertainty is driving caution among businesses and consumers, impacting growth. Brian Jacobsen discusses this in our Week-in-Review, alongside topics like common financial mistakes by age group, financial planning in the first year of widowhood, the role of a QDRO in divorce proceedings, and debunking myths about millionaires.

In this episode, hosts Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen break down the Week-in-Review. Consumer confidence rebounded in May, boosted by lower tariffs on China, which lifted expectations after hitting a five-year low in April. Despite fluctuating emotions, consumer spending remains steady, supported by stable employment as initial unemployment claims rise to average levels. The episode also explores equity compensation, spousal Social Security benefits, lifestyle creep, and the Annex Wealth Management insurance review process.

Different companies adopt varied strategies in response to tariffs, showcasing the strength of capitalism. However, investors face the challenge that companies absorbing tariff costs may see reduced earnings. In our Week-in-Review, Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen explore this and other key topics. Separately, we examine why more individuals are opting to take Social Security benefits early, with insights from our financial planning team. The show also covers the art and science of cash flow modeling, the value of a financial advisor, and how to prepare for receiving an inheritance.