Use unique passwords and a password manager for storage. Always mix numbers, characters, and symbols when creating passwords. Avoid dictionary words. When using a public WiFi network, use a virtual private network (VPN). When possible, choose 2-factor identification. Retain redundant automatic backups. Use virus and malware protection on your computer. Add a passcode to your phone […]
Are Financial Advisors Still Necessary?
Financial advisors have played an important role in helping individuals meet their savings and investing goals. However, the investment environment has changed and the role of a financial advisor has never been more different. A financial advisor has a wide variety of services to offer. The most common services are investment management and investment advice. […]
Can There Be Too Many Index Fund Investors?
The index fund is all the rage in financial blogs and throughout academia, and it has been for some time. Research reports and journal articles showing that active investing doesn’t work and that markets are too efficient to allow for mispricing have pulled investors away from stock picking money managers. In addition, index funds make […]
Should Dealing with a Financial Advisor Be Complicated?
Many Americans rely on professionals for financial advice, but like any type of service, there is a potential for conflict. Financial advice is a hotbed for potential agency problems. The reason someone seeks advice from a financial advisor is that they are not comfortable making financial decisions without guidance. Assuming these individuals do not have […]
10 Crazy Finance Facts
If you start with one penny and double your money every day for one month, by the end of the month you’ll have $10,737,418. 79% of US stock trades are made by computers and electronic trading. Due to hyperinflation in 2009, Zimbabwe started printing 100 trillion dollar bills. Equivalent to only $0.40 when it was […]
Gambling on Future Tax Rates
I’ve been doing the annual review of my 403B, which is like a 401K, but for public employees. Since we are shooting for early retirement, my contributions go into a Roth account. This allows the Mrs. and I to pull money out of the account before 65 without any penalty or tax since the contributions […]