Retirement Watch Weekly
Build Your Own Annuity
I’ve often pointed out that people can build their own indexed annuity, receiving most of the benefits of commercial annuities at less cost, to the consternation of some insurance agents. Yet, you can use strategies similar to those used by insurers to generate the same guarantees and returns in your own accounts. You don’t have […]
Retirement Planning – It’s Not All About Money
One point I make regularly in Retirement Watch is that retirement planning is about much more than money. Surveys of retirees indicate that money is important only up to a point. The money is to ensure you have the freedom and security to engage in the types of activities you want. Unfortunately, too many people […]
The War Over Annuities with “Living Benefits” Continues
Variable annuity sales sagged after the 2000 stock market crash. They were restored after the industry developed “living benefits.” There are different versions, but they generally guarantee the account owner a minimum rate of return or lifetime income in return for higher fees. The annuities have their advocates and detractors, and they continue to fight […]
The Changing World of Annuities
Annuities changed a lot in the last year. If you’re considering an annuity based on what was available a few years ago, you aren’t likely to find the features you’re looking for. Even many of those who own annuities are likely to have seen changes in their contracts. Low interest rates, volatile equity markets, and […]
January 2012
January 27, 2012 01:30 p.m. Your Retirement Finance Week in Review Central banks dominated the news this week with significant changes at the Federal Reserve. The Fed and the European Central Bank have had a stop-and-go money creation policy since the financial crisis accelerated in 2008. That appears to be in the past. This year […]
Estate Planning – The Giving, Asset-Shifting Opportunity
A unique wealth and Estate Planning opportunity presents itself to many people in 2012. It could be the last year for such an opportunity, so take advantage if it applies to you. A deal was reached in Washington in December 2010 to reduce estate and gift taxes for 2011 and 2012. Among other things, a […]
Estate Planning Tips for Surviving Spouses
Life can be difficult and complicated for surviving spouses. Contending with some financial rules and procedures in addition to everything else can amount to piling on. Yet, widows and widowers need to make key decisions about their finances, and some decisions need to be made within deadlines. Social Security, IRAs, employer retirement plans, and investments […]
Estate Planning Lessons for Grandkids from the Crisis
The bubble, its bursting, and the continuing financial crisis provided many lessons in personal finance. The biggest beneficiaries can be today’s young people, if they learn the right lessons. News reports and some surveys indicate that some are taking away the right ideas, but others are drawing the wrong conclusions and making their futures more […]
