Wealth Services Resources

Articles & White Papers

Outlook 2013

In 2013, many different forces will combine to influence the direction of the markets to follow the path of least resistance leading to modest single-digit returns in the U.S. stock and bond markets.

Calculating Retirement

When retirement was years away, calculating how much income you may need may have involved a lot of estimates. Now you can be more accurate.

Working with a Financial Planner

Proper long-term financial planning requires time, skill, discipline and confidence -- a combination that many individuals may lack. It's understandable that so many individuals are reluctant to take on the responsibility of researching and implementing their own investment programs. If you find yourself in this situation, it may make sense to consider working with a financial professional.

Tax Smart Tips

Savvy investors have long realized that what their investments earn after taxes is what really counts. After factoring in federal income and capital gains taxes, the alternative minimum tax, and potential state and local taxes, your investment returns in any given year may be reduced by 40 percent or more. Luckily, there are tools and tactics to help you manage taxes and your investments.

The Fiduciary Role

In the wake of the 2008 economic and market meltdown, a high percentage of individual investors have been asking themselves, and rightfully so, “Where can I find a trustworthy source of investment advice?” The good news is that a trustworthy source of investment advice does exist, and it is not limited to the super-wealthy. This source is the fiduciary investment advisor and fiduciary wealth manager.

Hidden Risks of Annuities

Dismal financial conditions, such as the 2008–2009 bear market and the subsequent uncertain economic recovery, often create opportunities for clever marketing strategies designed to capitalize upon investor fears. It is common for the insurance industry and Wall Street investment banks to take advantage of such marketing opportunities.

Monthly Market Comment

January 2013 Monthly Market Comment*

As January came to a close, some investors felt confident that 2013 will prove to be a positive year for stocks. After all, according to the noted January Barometer, when stocks close higher than they opened during the first month, the entire year will end "in the black."

Read archived editions of Monthly Market Comment

*Monthly Market Comment is a resource provided by Linscomb & Williams, an affiliate of Cadence Bank.