Beyond Bulls & Bears

Special tax alert: House committee advances tax bill

May 16, 2025

The House Ways & Means Committee advanced a comprehensive tax bill this week. Our Bill Cass discusses the key provisions and how they may impact taxpayers.

Alternatives

A 529 plan can be an effective component of an estate plan

529 plans provide tax benefits, estate planning advantages, and flexible education savings. Our Bill Cass explains how 529 plans can be part of an estate planning strategy.

Bill Cass, CFP®, CPWA® | May 14, 2025

Wealth Planning

For students with college debt in default, it’s time to pay the bill

The federal government recently resumed student loan collections after a multi-year pause. This affects millions of borrowers who have been in forbearance since March 2020. Our Bill Cass outlines some options for borrowers in default.

Bill Cass, CFP®, CPWA® | May 7, 2025

Retirement

The home stretch: Seven essential steps for pre-retirees

Preparing for retirement involves more than finances and should include a focus on health, wellbeing and goals. Our Mike Dullaghan explains why it’s important to start preparing 10 years ahead of retirement.

Mike Dullaghan | May 7, 2025

Wealth Planning

Key tax planning strategies for business owners

Businesses may face challenges but there are also a number of tax-smart strategies that can help mitigate tax liability and enhance efficiency. Our Bill Cass discusses several tax-smart strategies to consider.

Bill Cass, CFP®, CPWA® | April 30, 2025

Retirement

Why stable value is critical in retirement plan menus

Stable value funds can offer capital preservation and stable returns. Our Mike Dullaghan explains the key role of stable value in long-term retirement savings.

Mike Dullaghan | April 29, 2025

Wealth Planning

Tax planning should be a focus for all seasons

Tax filing season may be over for many, but tax planning is an important focus year-round. Consider post-tax season strategies including optimizing deductions or adjusting retirement contributions. Our Bill Cass shares some tax planning ideas to consider.

Bill Cass, CFP®, CPWA® | April 23, 2025

Wealth Planning

Six tax planning ideas for navigating market volatility

Navigating market volatility can be challenging for investors. Our Bill Cass shares several tax planning strategies to consider.

Bill Cass, CFP®, CPWA® | April 14, 2025

Wealth Planning

Putting your tax refund to work

Taxpayers plan to use their tax refunds for essentials and debt repayment, as well as savings strategies. Our Bill Cass shares ideas and strategies to consider this year.

Bill Cass, CFP®, CPWA® | April 9, 2025

Retirement

Aligning for success: From conflict to consensus

The fifth edition of our annual “Voice of the American Workplace” survey, conducted by The Harris Poll on behalf of Franklin Templeton, includes the perspectives of both employers and workers. The 2025 survey found US workers are prioritizing work-life balance and their mental health. Employers are listening and strengthening their focus on improving benefits and communication. In this piece, our Jacque Reardon shares findings from the survey and potential implications for employers.

Jacquelyn Reardon | April 8, 2025

Wealth Planning

Will Social Security change as spending cuts are considered?

Social Security faces funding issues by 2035, but major changes to the program are unlikely in the near term. Our Bill Cass highlights what is being discussed as the federal government looks to reduce spending.

Bill Cass, CFP®, CPWA® | April 2, 2025

Wealth Planning

This tax season don’t forget about digital assets

When dealing with digital assets it’s important to keep records and consult a tax professional. Our Bill Cass explains the taxation rules around cryptocurrency.

Bill Cass, CFP®, CPWA® | March 26, 2025

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