Kevin Sercia

Now that the Fed has raised rates, the obvious question is: what happens next?

LPL Research went back through the six Fed tightening cycles since 1994. On average, stocks struggled during the first few months after an initial rate hike before improving around months five and six.

Averages don’t tell the whole story though. 2022 looked very different from 1997, and the circumstances surrounding each rate cycle are important to take into consideration.

Many people picture retirement planning as one big decision made right before they stop working. But planning happens in stages.

By treating retirement as a countdown with specific checkpoints at 10, 5, 2, and 1 year out, you can avoid final-year stress and build a strategy that's tailored to your family's needs. From estimating costs and maximizing benefits early on, to stress-testing your income structure and building a cash reserve, each phase asks a different question.

Are you giving yourself enough time to adjust course along the way? Swipe through to see what you should be focusing on at every stage of your journey.

Need personalized guidance? Reach out and let's have a conversation.

Do you know what goes into your credit score?

Payment history carries the most weight, followed closely by the amount of debt you owe. The age of your accounts, recent credit applications, and the types of credit you use also play a role.

Understanding these five factors can help you see where your credit profile may need attention, especially before applying for a mortgage, auto loan, or other financing.

How much money do you really need to retire? It’s a question I am often asked, and the truth is, "enough" looks different for every household.

Many investors postpone their retirement because they are chasing an undefined goal. The happiest retirees don't necessarily have unlimited funds; instead, they have a clear sense of their financial "green zones." They understand their income streams, have their spending under control, and maintain a written plan for longevity and market downturns.

Are you tired of guessing what your "enough" is? Let's work together to define your goals and build a personalized strategy that creates financial confidence.

When the market gets uncomfortable, it’s easy to feel like you should be doing something right away. Before making a major change, take a look at what has actually changed in your own financial life.

Do you need the money sooner than you expected? Has your risk tolerance changed? Are your long-term goals different? Is there a real issue with the investment itself?

Those are the kinds of questions I’d want answered before making a sudden portfolio move.

I put together four things to consider when the headlines start getting loud. Need a second opinion on your portfolio? Let’s chat!