Afleveringen
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Are you still parking your cash in CDs or low-yield savings accounts? In this episode of Leibel on Fire, Amazon bestselling author and retirement expert Leibel Sternbach breaks down the real differences between money market funds, money market ETFs, and CDsâand reveals why retirees should be rethinking their short-term savings strategy.
Youâll learn:
â Why money market ETFs might be the best-kept secret for short-term yield
â How to strike the right balance between access, income, and safety
â Why using a âbucket strategyâ could protect your portfolio from market downturns
â The #1 mistake retirees make with their "safe" moneyâand how to fix it
If youâre in your 50s or beyond and want your cash to work smarterânot just sit thereâdonât miss this episode and contact us to schedule an appointment.
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Thinking about adding gold to your retirement portfolio? In this episode of Leibel on Fire, financial planner Leibel Sternbach breaks down the pros and cons of investing in gold ETFs versus physical gold, and why most retirees may be better off with other inflation-hedged or income-generating strategies. Learn the real value of gold, the myths behind its âsafe havenâ status, and what smarter, conservative investments you should be considering in todayâs economic climate.
Key Topics Covered: Gold vs. Gold ETFs: Whatâs the difference? The truth about gold as an inflation hedge Why gold might not belong in your retirement plan Smarter alternatives: Preferred shares, inflation-hedged assets, and more.
Ready to make smarter retirement moves? Schedule a consultation with Leibel at https://yields4u.com
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Zijn er afleveringen die ontbreken?
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Are crypto ETFs and private equity in your 401k the revolutionary investment opportunity Wall Street claims, or just another way to shift risk to unsuspecting retirees? In this eye-opening episode, financial expert Leibel Sternbach pulls back the curtain on Wall Street's newest offerings and reveals the hidden motives behind the crypto ETF push.
Discover: ⢠Why Wall Street is suddenly eager to offer previously restricted investments to everyday investors ⢠The real risks behind crypto ETFs that aren't being disclosed ⢠How to identify hidden fees and conflicts of interest in these trendy investments ⢠Smart strategies for incorporating alternative assets into your retirement portfolio
Before risking your retirement on the latest investment trend, watch this episode to understand what Wall Street doesn't want you to know. Your financial future depends on it.
Ready to create a retirement plan that protects your wealth? Schedule your free consultation at yields4u.com today.
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Navigating Market Chaos: How to Stay Calm, Profit, and Protect Your Retirement
In this special episode of Leibel on Fire, Leibel Sternbach is joined by hedge fund manager Ian Naismith of Algo IQ to break down the chaos in todayâs marketsâtariffs, trade tensions, volatility, and panic. Ian shares how his hedge fund not only sidestepped recent losses but actually turned a profit in one of the most unpredictable environments in years. Learn why volatility can be your warning signal, how active management can outperform when it matters most, and what smart investors are doing to protect their retirement portfolios. If you're in your 50s and wondering how to preserve and grow your wealth for retirementâthis episode is a must-listen.
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Tired of low CD rates? In this episode of Leibel on Fire, Leibel Sternbach and Freddie Bell reveal smarter ways to grow your savings. Learn about money market funds, ETFs, multi-year guaranteed annuities, and other alternatives that can help you earn more while keeping your money safe. Donât let inflation eat away at your retirementâfind out where to invest instead!
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Is the 4% rule outdated? Leibel Sternbach reveals why flexibility is key to a secure, sustainable retirement in todayâs economy.
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Market downturns can be nerve-wracking, but did you know they can also present unique financial opportunities?
Learn how to:
- Spot the difference between a short-term dip and a prolonged downturn.
- Leverage market volatility to save on taxes through strategic Roth conversions.
- Avoid common mistakes that could cost you during the conversion process.
- Forecast the tax implications and make smarter retirement decisions.
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Should You Really Buy the Dip? The Truth for Retirees When the market drops, it seems like the perfect time to buy â but is buying the dip really a smart move, especially when you're nearing retirement? In this episode of Leibel On Fire, Leibel Sternbach, Amazon bestselling author and expert in retirement planning, breaks down the pros, cons, and smarter investment strategies that protect your long-term financial security.
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One of the most challenging questions for retirees is deciding which accounts to withdraw from first â and making the wrong choice can have lasting financial consequences. Should you start with taxable accounts, tax-deferred accounts, or tax-free Roth accounts? In this episode of Leibel on Fire, Leibel Sternbach, Amazon bestselling author of Authenticity and Living with Financial Anxiety, breaks down the strategy behind retirement account withdrawals to help you optimize your income and minimize your tax burden.
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Is Social Security running out? In this episode, we break down the challenges facing Social Security, what it means for your retirement, and how you can plan ahead. Donât get caught off guardâlearn how to protect your financial future!
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Learn how to boost liquidity, reassess asset allocation, and refine your withdrawal strategy to weather economic downturns. Stay ahead of market uncertainty!
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Trade wars can have a major impact on your retirement savings. In this episode, we break down how global trade conflicts affect inflation, investments, and taxesâand what you can do to protect your nest egg. Stay ahead of economic uncertainty with expert insights from Leibel Sternbach.
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Explore essential tax-saving moves for retirees before 2025. Learn about Roth conversions, tax-loss harvesting, and securing your financial future.
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Navigate 2025 market uncertainty with expert tips for retirees. Learn strategies for diversification, income planning, and tax efficiency to secure your future.
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Preparing financially for natural disasters is an essential part of retirement planning. Read about the strategies that will help you safeguard your financial future.
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Learn valuable lessons from the tech bubble to secure your retirement. Discover smart strategies like diversification, managing FOMO, and planning for market volatility. Let us help you build a strong financial future!
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Learn smart strategies to secure steady returns in a low-interest rate world. Discover tips for retirement planning and minimizing risk with expert advice.
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Special Edition: Navigating Uncertainty in Unprecedented Times
Big news, folks! First, there was an assassination attempt on former President Trump, then a global tech outage, and now President Biden has dropped out of the race. Welcome to this special edition of Leibel on Fire, where we dive into these crucial issues and their impact on your finances.
I know many of you are feeling like nothing is certain right now. Some of you might even be thinking about pulling your money out of the market. So, what's the best move in these turbulent times?
Staying the Course in a Volatile MarketHere's the deal: I'm a big believer in having a plan and sticking to it. The market's ups and downs shouldn't dictate your strategy if you've planned well. Life is unpredictableâthe only certainty is uncertainty. So, it's crucial to have a solid financial plan that can withstand whatever life throws at you, whether it's market fluctuations or changes in tax policies.
President Biden's Exit: What Does It Mean for Investors?Now, about President Biden dropping out of the raceâshould this make us reconsider our investment strategies? In my opinion, it shouldn't. If you've been following our advice, you know we always emphasize the roller-coaster nature of the market. This latest development is just another twist in the ride.
Expected Market Reactions and StrategiesOver the next few weeks, expect a lot of volatility. Some will bet on Trump's potential win, hoping for a market boost similar to his previous term. But we must also consider who the Democrats will nominate and how the dynamics will shift. The key here is to stay calm and not make hasty decisions based on short-term market movements.
The Bigger Picture: Policy and Power DynamicsWe also need to keep an eye on the broader political landscape. Who will control Congress and the Senate? These factors will significantly influence market stability and policy directions.
Election Impact on TaxesThe upcoming elections play a crucial role in this scenario. The stock market often serves as a proxy for expectations regarding election outcomes, reflecting investors' anxieties and hopes. Interestingly, some traditional Democrat donors from Silicon Valley, known for their billions and progressive agendas, are now backing Republicans. Why? The simple answer is money. They find themselves with substantial wealth and are looking for the party that will protect their financial interests through lower taxes and favorable loopholes.
Tax Brackets and RMDsOne of the main concerns is the potential rise in tax brackets. As it stands, tax brackets are set to increase, especially for higher earners. For boomers over the age of 73, who must start taking RMDs, there's a worry that these distributions could push them into higher tax brackets.
The Tax Cut and Jobs Act, passed under the Trump administration, is slated to expire soon. If Trump were to be re-elected, thereâs a chance the act could be extended, provided he has the support of both the House and Senate. If not, and control shifts to the Democrats, we might see a different approach, possibly leading to higher taxes.
A Primer on the Tax Cut and Jobs ActFor those unfamiliar with the Tax Cut and Jobs Act, hereâs a quick overview. In 2017, the tax code was overhauled to stimulate the economy, implementing numerous tax cuts. These cuts were designed to phase out over time to gain bipartisan support, with a sunset provision set for the end of 2025 unless renewed.
Key elements include:
Tax Brackets: Adjusted for inflation, keeping people in lower brackets even during periods of high inflation.Standard Deduction: Tied to inflation, significantly increasing the deduction to nearly $30,000 for married couples filing jointly, reducing the need to itemize deductions.Small Business Incentives: About 80% of Americans are employed by small businesses, which are incentivized to grow through qualified business income deductions and other benefits.These changes have broadly impacted taxpayers by simplifying filing and reducing tax liabilities. However, the looming expiration means these benefits might soon disappear, potentially leading to higher taxes for many.
Protecting Your Retirement Amid Market UncertaintyAs we wrap up today's special edition, let's focus on actionable advice for investors looking to safeguard their retirement. Hereâs what you should consider and what we are advising our clients right now.
Navigating Volatility and UncertaintyOver the past 18 months, we've been preparing for the inevitable market volatility tied to the upcoming election, inflation, and the future of the Tax Cut and Jobs Act. With recent unexpected events, like Biden dropping out and the assassination attempt, uncertainty has only heightened. Markets thrive on certainty, and in its absence, chaos can ensue.
Key Strategies for Retirement SecuritySecure Your Income: Ensure that the money you rely on for your daily living expenses is not subject to market volatility. This means your monthly income should come from stable sources that won't lose value if the market drops. Drawing from volatile investments during a market downturn can compound losses and jeopardize your financial security in retirement.
Invest with Downside Protection: While the market has seen significant ups and downsâup 24% last year, going down right now, with more fluctuations expectedâhaving investments that offer downside protection is crucial. This strategy allows you to benefit from market gains while protecting against substantial losses. Given the potential for a recession, ensuring your investments can weather a downturn is essential.
Balancing Risks and OpportunitiesIt's a delicate balance between risk and opportunity. Markets can rise indefinitely, offering substantial gains, but they can only fall to zero, representing a total loss. Hence, a well-structured income plan and investments with downside protection are vital. This dual approach ensures that regardless of market conditions, your retirement funds remain intact, allowing you to enjoy a secure financial future.
The Importance of Capital PreservationIn these uncertain times, capital preservation is more important than ever. By focusing on protecting your principal investment, you can navigate market turbulence without jeopardizing your retirement.
If you're interested in how the Yields4U team can help you get off the Wall Street roller coaster and save on taxes to live the life of your dreams, reach out to us. Let's secure your financial future together.
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Navigating the Sunset of the Tax Cut and Jobs Act: A Guide for Retirees
Welcome to a practical rundown on the Tax Cut and Jobs Act and its implications, particularly as we edge closer to its scheduled expiration in 2026. Here, weâll explain what this could mean for you, especially if you plan for retirement.
The Tax Cut and Jobs Act Enacted during the Trump administration, was a significant overhaul of the U.S. tax code. Before this act, tax brackets were rigid and didnât account for inflation, which frequently pushed the average worker into higher tax rates unfairly. To remedy this, the act introduced automatic inflation adjustments to the tax brackets, simplifying the entire tax system significantly. Where previously almost everyone itemized deductions, the new standard deduction became so generous that most taxpayers shifted to using it instead. However, the act came with a built-in expiration dateâthe end of 2025âmeaning it's not a permanent change. This expiration is strategically timed to avoid coinciding with an election year, yet it poses significant uncertainties for taxpayers, especially retirees.
What 2026 Could Bring: A Financial ShiftAs 2026 approaches, if no legislative action is taken to renew or permanently install new measures, tax brackets could revert, potentially catapulting many into higher tax rates. For retirees, this concern is especially poignant. Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) from retirement accounts could suddenly be taxed more heavily, affecting retirees' financial health.
Proactive Steps for Retirees1. Understanding Inflation Adjustments: One of the underappreciated benefits of the current tax code is its adjustment mechanism for inflation. This has been crucial during periods of high inflation, allowing for increased contributions to retirement accounts and adjustments to tax brackets and standard deductions. Recognizing these benefits helps underscore what's at stake.
2. Strategic Financial Moves: In anticipation of the actâs expiration, retirees should consider certain financial strategies:
- Roth Conversions: Converting traditional IRA or 401(k) accounts to Roth IRAs can be advantageous. Roth accounts are funded with after-tax dollars, meaning withdrawals are tax-free. Converting before the tax hike means paying taxes at the current lower rates.
- Asset Management: Selling high-value assets like businesses or homes under the current tax code might lock in lower capital gains tax rates.
3. Stay Informed and Flexible: Legislation can change, and being prepared means keeping abreast of new tax laws and financial strategies. Consulting with a tax advisor regularly can provide tailored advice and adjustments to your financial planning.
The Bottom Line For those nearing retirement, understanding the Tax Cut and Jobs Actâand preparing for its potential expirationâis crucial.By taking proactive steps now, you can better manage your financial future against the uncertainty of tax changes. Remember, informed decisions today can safeguard your finances tomorrow. Letâs keep a keen eye on how these discussions evolve as 2026 approaches, and potentially leverage current laws to secure a more stable financial footing.
The Likely Path Congress Will TakeRealistically, the reasons behind the enactment of the TCJA still standâit was designed to fix a broken tax system. Letting such a system simply expire and revert to the old, problematic one doesn't seem feasible, particularly not for a Congress whose primary goal is reelection. The people most affected by the expirationâthe young, low-income earners, and retireesâform a significant voting block that cannot be ignored.
Possible Scenarios:1. Extension of the Act: The most likely scenario seems to be a temporary extension of the TCJA. This would provide a stopgap solution while Congress debates more permanent changes.
2. Inflation Adjustments: Should the old tax code be reinstated, adjustments for inflation are expected. This would prevent taxpayers from landing in dramatically higher tax brackets due to the inflation weâve seen since 2018.
3. Incremental Changes: Congress might also tweak the existing tax structures, such as modifying tax brackets or introducing new tax legislation aimed at increasing revenue, without a complete rollback of the TCJA.
Implications for Financial PlanningThe uncertainty surrounding tax legislation means that retirees and financial advisors need to stay vigilant. Watching how tax discussions evolve in the current election cycle will provide clues. Proposals that have surfaced, like taxing unrealized gains or modifying how Roth accounts are treated, suggest that changes are on the horizon, albeit not as drastic as a full expiration of the TCJA.
ConclusionIn times of tax uncertainty, especially with the potential changes in the Tax Cut and Jobs Act on the horizon, having access to tools like those provided by YieldsForYou.com can be incredibly empowering. Whether you're considering Roth conversions or simply trying to understand your retirement outlook better, these resources offer tailored insights that can help guide your decision-making process. Remember, while tools like these are invaluable, they are best used in conjunction with professional advice. Always consider consulting with a financial advisor to ensure that your specific needs and circumstances are fully addressed.
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In this episode, we're diving into a hot topic that has stirred up quite a debate among financial experts: mutual funds. Are they the backbone of your retirement plan or a hidden obstacle on your path to financial independence?
Mutual Funds ExplainedThese investment vehicles have been around for decades, and for a long time, they were the only choice for many investors. A mutual fund pools money from many investors to invest in a diversified portfolio of stocks, bonds, or other securities.
Mutual Funds:A Broker's Favorite and why brokers might lean heavily toward mutual funds, it's clear that there are a few compelling reasons tied more closely to their benefits rather than yours.
1. Proprietary Funds and Internal Profits: Brokers, especially those at well-known financial firms like Edward Jones or Merrill Lynch, often push mutual funds because these products are internally managed. This means the firms can "double dip" by earning from managing these funds while also selling them to you. This setup doesn't necessarily prioritize your best financial interests but rather the financial health of the brokerage firm.
2. Commission-Based Earnings: Mutual funds often come in various share classes, each with its own commission structure. For brokers, this is a golden ticket. Some mutual fund share classes allow brokers to earn as much as a 6% commission on sales, plus ongoing fees from dividend reinvestments and annual management. These commissions provide a significant incentive for brokers to recommend these funds over others, regardless of whether they are the best option for the investor.
3. Control Over Investments: Many brokerage firms limit their advisors to a prescribed list of investment options, which often heavily feature their own proprietary mutual funds. This restriction can sometimes lead to a conflict of interest, where the advisorâs ability to act in your best interest is compromised by the need to adhere to firm policies.
The Evolving Financial LandscapeThe financial world is always evolving. Over the past 15 to 20 years, new investment tools have emerged that may outperform mutual funds in many aspects. It's essential to constantly reassess whether mutual funds are still the best tool for achieving your financial goals.
Impact of Other Investors' Decisions
When you invest in a mutual fund, you're not just investing in stocks or bonds; you're also buying into an investment company. This structure means your investment can be affected by the actions of other investors in the fund. If someone decides to sell their shares suddenly, it could negatively impact the entire fund, affecting your investments as well.
Hidden Costs and Inefficiencies
Mutual funds are notorious for their hidden costs. These might include management fees, marketing expenses, and other overheads that aren't immediately apparent. Financial institutions, like big banks and brokers, often favor mutual funds because they can embed numerous fees that might not be evident at first glance.
The Shift Towards ETFsWith growing awareness and pressure from investors and advisors alike, many mutual fund companies have begun offering ETFs, which provide similar strategies but with greater tax efficiency, lower costs, and more transparency. This shift is driven by the demand for investment products that better align with investor interests, highlighting a move away from the opaque structures of mutual funds. As investors become savvier, the push for ETFs and direct stock investments becomes stronger, driven by the desire for better control, lower costs, and clearer investment strategies.
Conclusion:What's best for your portfolio? In conclusion, while mutual funds might still work for some strategies or investor needs, itâs crucial to look at newer, more efficient alternatives. The goal is to maximize your returns with as little hassle and unnecessary cost as possible.
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