Beyond Bulls & Bears

Planning moves to lessen the sting of the 3.8% surtax
Wealth Planning

Planning moves to lessen the sting of the 3.8% surtax

A rising number of US taxpayers are subject to an investment income surtax, introduced a decade ago in federal legislation. Here are some strategies that may help mitigate the impact of the tax.

Six things to know about Social Security survivor benefits
Wealth Planning

Six things to know about Social Security survivor benefits

For married couples, it is important to understand the rules for claiming Social Security survivor benefits in order to plan ahead. Our Bill Cass discusses the details.

Navigating the next normal in the retirement industry
Retirement

Navigating the next normal in the retirement industry

The needs of retirement plan sponsors and savers are changing, and advisors may want to consider a value proposition for the “next normal” in the shifting retirement landscape, according to Mike Dullaghan, Retirement Strategist at Franklin Templeton.

Financial planning strategies for newlyweds
Wealth Planning

Financial planning strategies for newlyweds

Here are some financial planning considerations and steps newlyweds may want to take after the wedding. Our Bill Cass highlights some of the key areas.

Beyond generic advice: How advisors can personalize investing
Retirement

Beyond generic advice: How advisors can personalize investing

Personalized messaging has a powerful impact. Our Kevin Murphy believes it is time for the financial services industry to deliver personalized solutions and advice.

Advisors’ top 529 questions, answered
College Savings

Advisors’ top 529 questions, answered

Our recent 529 Month webinar focused on how 529 plans are used, the impact on federal financial aid, and expanded uses. Here are some of the leading topics discussed.

On My Mind: The twin roots of rising rates
Fixed Income

On My Mind: The twin roots of rising rates

Franklin Templeton Fixed Income CIO Sonal Desai discusses why rising investment and persistently loose US fiscal policy are simultaneously pushing in the direction of higher long-term real interest rates.

Quick Thoughts: When it comes to US elections, it’s the economy—perhaps
Perspectives

Quick Thoughts: When it comes to US elections, it’s the economy—perhaps

Several factors account for the apparent disconnect between headline US economic data and what polls suggest many Americans feel. Find out more from Franklin Templeton Institute’s Stephen Dover.

Reasons why a grandparent-owned 529 may make sense
College Savings

Reasons why a grandparent-owned 529 may make sense

A grandparent may choose to fund a 529 plan for a grandchild’s education. Our Bill Cass discusses key tax and estate planning considerations as well as the impact on student financial aid.

Harvesting opportunities: Income diversification for uncertain times
Multi-Asset

Harvesting opportunities: Income diversification for uncertain times

Despite the US Federal Reserve’s cautious stance on interest rates and the shifting dynamics of the equity and fixed income markets, Franklin Income Investors CIO Ed Perks believes conditions are favorable for investing in these asset classes. This article provides an analysis of the latest economic and market trends and explores strategic opportunities to navigate through the current uncertain environment.

Decision made: Why 529 plans are a popular choice for education savings
College Savings

Decision made: Why 529 plans are a popular choice for education savings

For families saving for college, 529 plans remain popular. Our Bill Cass shares some key facts about 529 plans.