With fewer and fewer workers covered by a defined benefit retirement plan (pension), more Americans today depend on 401(k)s and other defined-contribution plans to supply retirement income. Through disciplined and tax-incentivized savings throughout their career, many workers will have their 401(k)/IRA as their largest financial asset by the end of their career.

It has become an American tradition to pass on accumulated wealth to subsequent generations. Whether it be family real estate or a sizeable stock portfolio, it is only natural for parents to want to leave something to their children. Proposed policy changes under the new administration may severely alter how we continue this practice. In this episode of the 2021 Financial Forecast Series, David L. Blain, CFA, outlines the proposed policy changes to estate planning while highlighting the strategies for the wealth of this generation and future beneficiaries.

As we advance into the 2020 tax filing season, David L. Blain, CFA, looks ahead at the proposed tax planning changes in 2021. These changes could have severe consequences for business owners nationwide and high-income earners in states like California, Oregon, and Washington. In his 5th episode of the 2021 Financial Forecast Series, David reviews the proposed tax reforms and outlines the techniques and strategies for continued financial success.

As a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) and Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors at Carolina East Health System, David L. Blain, CFA, has experienced a front-row seat to the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic from both a micro and macro effect on the economy and financial markets. In his ongoing series, 2021 Financial Forecast: A Step-By-Step Guide to a Year of Change, David provides a thorough overview of what to expect in the year(s) ahead, while taking a deep-dive into the financial sectors potentially affected by the incoming administration's proposed policy changes.

Stephen Fletcher, CFP®, MBA, explains a little-known provision in the tax code that advisors have been utilizing for years. It is called the Back-Door Roth contribution, and it lets high-income earners still get some funds into a Roth IRA, even if they make well over the upper end of the income limit.

David Blain, CFA, explains COVID-19 Stimulus Programs for Business Owners and Independent Contractors. Read the full transcripts here.

Now that the SECURE Act has passed, you may have some questions about what it means for you and your beneficiaries. The act works to increase access to employer-sponsored retirement plans and addresses the extended average life expectancy. Still, it brings changes for the way your retirement funds will be inherited.

Our very own Director of Client Engagement, Jennifer White, was recently featured in an issue of RIA Intel. The article discusses the ideal frequency for advisors to meet with clients and the importance of defining communication standards.