By John C. Ogle | jcogle@atlaspwm.com
I’ve used the analogy of hiking across a valley… we know that we’ll be able to get to the other side because we can see it, but what we don’t know is exactly what the terrain will be like between here and there. There might be streams to cross or rough patches to deal with along the trail.
Timothy Hamilton CFP®, CIMA®, CSLP® | thamilton@atlaspwm.com
We’d like to congratulate Atlas’ Senior Vice President, Tim Hamilton CFP®, CIMA®, CSLP® on earning his Certified Student Loan Professional (CSLP®) designation.
By Toby Potterton, CRPC® | tpotterton@atlaspwm.com
Elder abuse can take several forms, including but not limited to physical, emotional, passive neglect, and increasing in prevalence is financial exploit.
By John C. Ogle | jcogle@atlaspwm.com
ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) and SRI (Socially responsible investing) are themes that are becoming more prevalent in the investing world. As a firm, we at Atlas recognize this, and have developed a considered approach to the issue.
By John C. Ogle | jcogle@atlaspwm.com
We believe to the extent an investor is properly positioned now, patience rather than force will prove to be a prudent strategy. With that, I offer the following…
By John C. Ogle | jcogle@atlaspwm.com
There is a well-known body of research that suggests that at any point in time, current market prices reflect all currently known information…
By Christopher Aiello | caiello@atlaspwm.com
Conventional wisdom says that only people who are older or wealthy need to create one of these or worry about estate planning in general. However, even people who are young and have modest amounts of assets should have a plan for when they die.
By John C. Ogle | jcogle@atlaspwm.com
Financial markets hit their highest pessimism levels in mid-March, on nearly the same calendar day that Bear Stearns collapsed 12 years ago. The difference is the response times. Policymakers are responding quicker and with more force now as compared to 2008.
By John C. Ogle | jcogle@atlaspwm.com
On a more practical level, we view the recent market activity as an “event driven” correction rather than either a “cyclical” or “structural” selloff. Given this, along with our preference for history rather than hysteria, we are working to cut through the current chatter.
By John C. Ogle | jcogle@atlaspwm.com
This week Congress is working to develop what could be a massive fiscal stimulus package. Some are labeling this package “the bazooka,” after a much more modest aid package was announced last week.
By John C. Ogle | jcogle@atlaspwm.com
As you are probably aware, over the last week the U.S. equity markets have sold off, losing over 10% from their recent highs. This is being driven by concerns that the Coronavirus (COVID-19) will continue to spread, negatively impacting global commerce and the potential for accelerated economic growth.
By John C. Ogle | jcogle@atlaspwm.com
At this time of year I find it satisfying to take account of the year past. I enjoy reflecting on goals achieved and plans that changed, expectations fulfilled and those that failed to turn out. Surprises – yes, there are always surprises. Markets sometimes surprise me too.
By Brendan Walsh | bwalsh@atlaspwm.com
As stock shares generally appreciate in value over longer periods we should know that eventually, we will have to pay taxes when we sell the shares. The question then becomes, what are some strategies to lower the capital gains hit?
Each quarter, we provide updates on matters such as Atlas events, community activities, and new associates.
By Robert Palmer, CFP® | rpalmer@atlaspwm.com and Sara Casale | scasale@atlaspwm.com
A health savings account (HSA) is a tax-exempt vehicle that can be used to pay or reimburse certain medical expenses. An HSA can be especially helpful to offset medical costs in retirement, which is usually a retiree’s largest expense.
By John C. Ogle | jcogle@atlaspwm.com
As we all are aware, interest rates are at historic lows. In fact, rates have been coming down rather consistently for the last thirty-five years. In the mid-1980’s, one could invest in a 30-year U.S. Treasury bond and receive a rate of over 14% for the next three decades.
Each quarter, we provide updates on matters such as Atlas events, community activities, and new associates.
On December 3rd, 2019, clients and community members had the opportunity to watch our live “Year-End 2019 Tax Planning Webinar.” The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act has created a host of opportunities for tax savings. Learn how to maximize the opportunities under the current tax laws by reviewing Atlas’ webinar, now available for on-demand viewing.
By J. Christopher Aiello | caiello@atlaspwm.com
There are many different types of trusts. There are almost certainly a few trusts that could benefit you (which ones depend on your personal goals and life circumstances). To identify and then implement an appropriate trust, a basic understanding is necessary.
By John C. Ogle | jcogle@atlaspwm.com
A hope for a better future for ourselves and family. Our retirement. Our financial security. Our investments. Economic and political uncertainty. Headlines. Twitter. CNBC. Market volatility.
Each quarter, we provide updates on matters such as Atlas events, community activities, and new associates.
Each quarter, we provide updates on matters such as Atlas events, community activities, and new associates.
By Lissa McNaughton | lmcnaughton@atlaspwm.com
In movies, novels, and even in real life, there are those who dedicate their life’s work to searching and discovering. Whether the search is for sunken treasure, the fountain of youth, a spiritual vortex, a cure for cancer, or the Holy Grail, there must be a calculated plan in place—a map to help guide you to your destination.
By John C. Ogle | jcogle@atlaspwm.com
As we work our way into 2019, the U.S. economy appears to be making the transition from the middle stage to the late stage of the economic cycle. With several geo-political issues in the forefront of the news, we expect to see the growth rates of economic activity decelerate both in the U.S. and across the globe.
By John C. Ogle | jcogle@atlaspwm.com
With the recent increase in market instability, we have been working diligently to analyze it all and define the path to set for the future. So, we want to take the time to briefly share our views with the hope that we can provide some consolation and guidance as we begin the New Year.
On December 5th, 2018, clients and community members had the opportunity to watch our live “Year-End 2018 Tax Planning Webinar.” New tax laws have gone into effect. Are you prepared for these changes? Learn more about your options in the recording of this webinar, now available for on-demand viewing.
By Justin Bogardus | jbogardus@atlaspwm.com
Advance planning will help you understand how your assets will be transferred and will help ensure your wishes are carried out. It may also assist your beneficiaries and heirs in avoiding unnecessary delays.
By John C. Ogle | jcogle@atlaspwm.com
We think that this fear of rising rates is one of the most unsupported and exaggerated investment themes in memory, and we’ll offer some historical evidence that shows that most investors have far less to fear than they think.
Each quarter, we provide updates on matters such as Atlas events, community activities, and new associates.
On October 30, 2018, we held a live webinar for clients and community members that discussed how to plan for college expenses without jeopardizing your retirement. The recording of this webinar is available now for on-demand viewing.
Atlas team members have been busy making a difference in the communities they live in, work in, and serve.
By Kollin F. Allard, CRPC® | kallard@atlaspwm.com
The oldest millennials are turning 37 while the youngest millennials are now 22. What should young investors keep in mind as they begin their independent financial lives?
By John C. Ogle | jcogle@atlaspwm.com
Anyone that studies the markets knows that for equities and certain classes of fixed income securities, it is earnings (or profits) that propel and support valuations.
On May 23rd, 2018, we held a live webinar for clients and community members which addressed some of today’s biggest retirement planning decisions. The recording of this webinar is available now for on-demand viewing.
By Tim Hamilton, CFP®, CIMA® | thamilton@atlaspwm.com
For the first time in four years, the Federal Reserve has a new chairman. Who is Jerome Powell and how might his leadership impact interest rates, the dollar, and equity markets?
Each quarter, we provide updates on new professionals joining our team, upcoming events, and how Atlas Private Wealth Management is giving back to the community.
By John C. Ogle | jcogle@atlaspwm.com
The first quarter of the year has been eventful for the economy and markets, to say the least. We saw a return of volatility in the markets – more than we had seen for many months.
On-demand webinar discussing tax reform and its implications for individual investors and business owners.
Teflon was the byword for the markets in 2017. Despite political and social turbulence, many markets have “let it slide,” and have seen a surprisingly steady rise. In the U.S., the rise has come with relatively low interim volatility.
Investment losses happen, it’s just part of owning a diversified investment portfolio. Tax-loss harvesting is a way for investors to realize, or “harvest,” these investment losses in order to lower their tax liability.
It’s hard to open The Wall Street Journal these days without being reminded that U.S. equity markets are at historic highs. How do these market highs compare to history, and what can we learn from looking at the big picture?
On December 6th, we covered year-end tax planning tips during a LIVE webinar.
On July 19th, we covered the basics of financial planning during a LIVE webinar.
With the first half of 2017 coming to a close, we’re seeing a shift in equity market leadership, with European large-cap stocks emerging from their doldrums and international stocks generally showing attractive returns.
Today, there are countless ways technology can help you manage your money, create a better budget, and even save on the purchases you make every day. We believe that each of these can be an important component of a holistic financial plan.
Cybercrime is a growing topic of importance. What tactics are digital thieves using today and, more importantly, how can investors protect themselves? Explore this topic to ensure your hard-earned assets are as safe as possible from cyber threats.
These days it’s not uncommon for parents to postpone starting a family until both spouses are settled in their marriage and careers. Though this strategy can be advantageous, it can also present a dilemma — the need to save for college and retirement at the same time. Facing this dilemma? Download our four page resource which can help you navigate this challenging scenario.
By Brendan Walsh | bwalsh@atlaspwm.com
As stock shares generally appreciate in value over longer periods we should know that eventually, we will have to pay taxes when we sell the shares. The question then becomes, what are some strategies to lower the capital gains hit?
By John C. Ogle | jcogle@atlaspwm.com
With the recent increase in market instability, we have been working diligently to analyze it all and define the path to set for the future. So, we want to take the time to briefly share our views with the hope that we can provide some consolation and guidance as we begin the New Year.
By Justin Bogardus | jbogardus@atlaspwm.com
Advance planning will help you understand how your assets will be transferred and will help ensure your wishes are carried out. It may also assist your beneficiaries and heirs in avoiding unnecessary delays.
Investment losses happen, it’s just part of owning a diversified investment portfolio. Tax-loss harvesting is a way for investors to realize, or “harvest,” these investment losses in order to lower their tax liability.
With the lure of tax-free distributions, Roth IRAs have become increasingly popular retirement savings vehicles. According to the 2016 Investment Company Fact Book, 20 million U.S. households (about 16.3%) owned Roth IRAs in 2015.
Tis the season for giving, as the clock runs down on 2016. This is a good time to think about year-end gifting. I’m talking more than the usual presents under the tree.
Currently the individual 2016 and 2017 annual gift exclusion amount is $14,000 per any one individual. You can gift up to the exclusion to anyone (not just family members) and any number of people, without the need to report the gift or incur any gift tax. Married couples can gift twice as much ($28,000) using gift splitting (this requires them to file a gift tax return using IRS Form 709).
We all have a lifetime exclusion. This is the amount above the $14,000 annual limit that we may gift during our lifetime without incurring gift taxes. For 2016, that amount is $5,450,000, and in 2017 it increases to $5,490,000.
COVID-19 UPDATE: In an effort to do our part to slow the spread of COVID-19, our Albany Office will be closed until further notice in order to protect our clients, associates, and community. Your team at Atlas Private Wealth Management will be working remotely and will be accessible by phone and e-mail during our normal business hours Monday – Friday 8:00 am-4:30 pm ET. We at Atlas have a commitment to you to maintain seamless business operations and client communication to the best of our ability. If you do not already subscribe to our newsletter, please consider this a great opportunity to do so, as we will continue to send communications regarding the markets and office operations as we all navigate this new environment. As always, if you have any questions, please call your Wealth Management Advisor at 518-482-5777 or 1-800-432-7447.