SmartReads

With gas prices in the U.S. hitting several-year highs as a result of military operations in the Middle East and subsequent pressure on the Strait of Hormuz, many households may be feeling the squeeze of the cost of their commute lately.  As of April 1st, the national average price of a regular gallon stands at… read more…

Variable annuities are often sold on the promise of one compelling idea: you can participate in market gains without bearing the full risk of market losses. It’s an attractive pitch, especially for investors approaching retirement who can’t afford a major setback. However, the word “guarantee” inside a variable annuity contract carries a lot of fine… read more…

Variable annuities can be powerful tools for retirement planning. They provide guaranteed income options with tax-deferred growth that few other products can match. However, they are also complex, layered contracts that carry real risks. Therefore, the stakes for consumers are high. That complexity is exactly why variable annuities merge two major regulatory systems: insurance and… read more…

Planning for retirement can be a challenge for families who are balancing everyday expenses, raising children and sometimes even supporting aging parents. With so many financial priorities competing for attention, long-term goals like retirement can easily fall to the background. But with the right strategies and planning approach, families can build a retirement plan that… read more…