As we approach the end of the year, it becomes “tax time” here at Master’s. We spend a lot of time running projections, making recommendations, and talking through our client’s individual tax situations and, believe it or not, we enjoy it immensely!   For our 4th quarter blog series, we are going to revisit some of the basics of tax planning and how our tax code works.   Tax Planning &… Read More

As we turn another page on our 2024 calendar, we now find ourselves in October, which is recognized as Cybersecurity Awareness Month.   Unfortunately, hacking scams surround us, and we must remain vigilant as these schemes become more sophisticated with advances in technology. Some common schemes include simple phishing attempts that target large numbers of people and targeted techniques designed to infiltrate the finances and private information of corporations.   However,… Read More

When it comes to investments, perspective is everything. As advisors, one of the questions we are often asked goes something like this: “In light of the [insert scary news headline of the week here], would you recommend any changes to our portfolio?” Let me be clear upfront: I am by no means diminishing the importance of this type of question. As an advisor, if my client is concerned or curious… Read More

Last week, our family had the privilege of hosting two boys, aged eight and ten, from Uganda, along with a young adult chaperone. They are part of the African Children’s Choir and performed at our church. With full transparency, we didn’t immediately jump at the opportunity to host them. It wasn’t until a heartfelt plea from our church leadership—who needed more host families—that we reluctantly agreed. With the challenges we… Read More

In last week’s blog, Managing Debt as Interest Rates Rise, Garry reminded us of some fundamental decision-making regarding debt payoff versus seizing the opportunity to get meaningful interest rates on our cash accounts, or “safe money.” Let’s agree to define cash accounts as money markets, high-yield savings, and CDs. Today’s blog post will discuss the fallacy of “falling in love” with these cash accounts. We begin today’s discussion by looking… Read More

Several evenings ago, Colleen and I took our Mustang GT convertible out for a drive & stopped for a quick dinner on a local restaurant’s patio. It was a very warm June evening, but we cruised for a bit more before returning home. Walking through the door into our house, we were met by a refreshing blast of air conditioning that just felt wonderful! The a/c was working perfectly, and… Read More

We have all sought out our circle of friends and family when it comes to advice, from restaurant choices to vacation destinations, and bigger things like when to retire. These are the folks we consider to be ‘in our corner.’ This group builds you up, cheers you on, holds you accountable, and adds value to your life. They invest their time in you, challenge you to be the best version… Read More