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Credit freezes are one of the most effective, yet least-discussed, techniques to prevent identity theft.  They might be little-known because no one, including the credit bureaus, actually makes any money from a credit freeze – unlike credit locks, they are now provided for free.  Putting a credit freeze in place prevents the credit bureaus from sharing your credit report with any third parties, which makes it hard to establish new credit.  The freezes are very useful for each of us, because they help to prevent a significant loss of time

Let’s talk about April 2025.

It was the kind of month that gives market watchers whiplash and reminds long-term investors why patience and maybe antacids are needed at times. On April 2nd, President Trump declared “Liberation Day,” unveiling a sweeping package of tariffs: 10% on all imports, with even higher rates on Chinese and European goods. The market reacted with a sharp decline.

Today there are many opportunities to help a child invest for their future, and to teach a child about the importance of saving. While savings accounts still exist, there are now tax efficient ways, such as a Roth IRA, to teach a child to save for his or her future. 

Diversification worked in the first quarter, as international stocks outperformed their US counterparts by 11%, the widest margin of outperformance since 1989.

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It’s not too soon…a look ahead to the 2025 tax year

While we are all busy filing our 2024 tax returns, there are potential tax law changes coming in 2025 that merit paying attention to the impact on your portfolio.  While your current tax situation is top of mind, taking the time now to anticipate future tax changes will give you more time to plan, and if necessary, to act to minimize any impact.  

Provisions of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) will expire at the end of this year unless Congress acts. Below are some of the key items we will be monitoring:

After a spectacular run of almost 50% from October 2023 to February 2025, the S&P 500 is now off ~9% from its highs.  Although it might not feel like it, this type of decline is actually normal for the stock market.

Investors who have a well-diversified portfolio that includes other asset classes, such as bonds and international stocks, are still doing OK because the other investments are likely up so far this year.  If you have a portfolio that is mostly US large-cap stocks, it is a good reminder that it helps to be diversified.  

Whether you file your own taxes or pay a professional to have them filed for you, below are some helpful tips that will keep you organized this tax season. In addition, included in these suggestions are ways to maximize your deductions, while reducing your tax liability after year end.

US large cap stocks outperformed all other asset classes for the second year in a row, continuing the 15-year trend.

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Corporate fundamentals are in good shape, equity markets continue to outperform and bonds should help diversify portfolios

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Changing your investments solely because it is a US presidential election year is not the best strategy.  Instead, focus on your long-term goals, risk tolerance, and overall portfolio diversification.  While election years introduce uncertainty, long-term stock market trends are driven by larger economic forces like corporate earnings, interest rates, and global events.