- Mercer Advisors

How to Tell if You’re Taking on Too Much Risk (Or Too Little!)

Imagine this: You check your retirement account and see a drop in value. Your stomach tightens. Thoughts race through your mind: Should I sell now before it gets worse? Is my retirement in danger? If you’ve ever felt this way, you may be carrying more risk in your financial plan than you’re comfortable with. On the other hand, some retirees play it too safely. They avoid any market fluctuations but then worry about whether their savings [...]

Rebecca Mack2025-06-05T23:00:29+00:00June 5, 2025|Investing|

Weathering the Storm: How Market Volatility Impacts Retirement & What You Can Do About It

Picture this: Jim and Linda, both 67, just retired after decades of hard work. They planned carefully, saved consistently, and looked forward to enjoying their golden years. But then came a market downturn. Suddenly, their portfolio dropped 20% in a matter of weeks. The income they planned to draw from their investments now seems shaky.* Sound familiar? Market volatility may hit hard when you're approaching or living in retirement. Why? Because you're not just investing for [...]

Rebecca Mack2025-05-08T00:21:51+00:00May 8, 2025|Economy, Investing, Stock Market|

Is It Time to Refresh Your Annuity? Here’s Why You Might Consider It

Annuities have long been a cornerstone for those seeking a steady income stream in retirement. However, the financial landscape is ever-evolving, and what worked a few years ago might not be the best fit today. With rising interest rates, inflation concerns, and innovative annuity products entering the market, now might be a great time to reassess your annuity strategy. Capitalizing on Higher Interest Rates Since 2022, the Federal Reserve has steadily increased interest rates, only slowing [...]

Rebecca Mack2025-04-23T00:39:55+00:00April 23, 2025|Financial Planning, Investing, Retirement Planning|

Slower Rate Cuts, The Market, and Your Finances

Whether you’re checking your account balances, planning your next adventure, or enjoying a well-earned retirement, markets move... and with it, your account values may as well. Recent market volatility, driven by the Federal Reserve’s announcement to slow rate cuts, has left many retirees wondering what this means for their financial future. Let’s explore the situation and how you can confidently navigate these uncertain times. What’s Happening with Interest Rates? Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell recently announced [...]

Rebecca Mack2025-02-12T18:17:10+00:00February 12, 2025|Economy, Investing, Stock Market|

Recent Tax Changes Boost 529 Plan Benefits

529 plans, the popular tax-advantaged savings accounts for education expenses, have become even more attractive in recent years thanks to a series of federal tax law changes. These modifications have expanded the versatility of 529 plans, making them a more powerful tool for families planning for educational expenses. What is the 529 Plan? A 529 plan is a tax-advantaged investment account designed to encourage saving for education expenses. Named after Section 529 of the Internal Revenue [...]

Rebecca Mack2024-12-11T18:54:27+00:00December 11, 2024|Financial Planning, Investing, Medicare, Social Security|

Differences Between Traditional and Roth IRA

When it comes to planning for retirement, Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs) are a popular investment option. There are two main types of IRAs: traditional and Roth. Both have their own distinct features, advantages, and drawbacks. In this article, we will explore the key differences between a traditional and a Roth IRA. Tax Treatment One of the main differences between a traditional and a Roth IRA is the way they are taxed. Traditional IRA Contributions to a [...]

Rebecca Mack2024-11-19T20:39:06+00:00November 19, 2024|Investing, Retirement Income, Retirement Planning|

How Lower Interest Rates Could Impact Your Money

The Federal Reserve recently announced their decision to lower interest rates, marking a significant shift in monetary policy. This change could have far-reaching implications—namely to your retirement finances if you rely on interest-earning accounts like money market accounts, CDs, and savings accounts.[1] The Impact on Interest-Earning Accounts Interest-earning accounts, known for their stability and, of late, their relatively higher yields, may soon see a decrease in their returns. As the Fed cuts rates, financial institutions that [...]

Rebecca Mack2024-10-01T17:34:44+00:00October 1, 2024|Federal Reserve, Investing|