Bedel Blog

This strategy should not be applied blindly, as there are many other caveats to consider. While it might seem like a no-brainer to utilize this option and remove as much tax liability as possible, it may be wise to pay the ordinary tax (if you will be in a lower tax bracket in the year in which the distribution/transfer would occur) or a portion of it and move the entire after-tax contribution portion to a Roth IRA since those assets would then grow and be distributed tax free.

With today’s yields being much higher than the close to 0% yields that prevailed for many years, fixed income investments can offer attractive returns for that part of your portfolio that serves as a ballast.

There will be significant changes to charitable giving in 2026, and taxpayers of all income levels will be impacted.

The 2025 tariff regime marks the highest average effective US tariff rate since 1909, now standing at an average of 18.2% according to Yale, and can even get up to 20.6% after August 1st.

Trump Accounts are part of the OBBB and designed to encourage long-term, multigenerational savings. Think of them as a hybrid between an IRA and a 529 plan—but with fewer strings attached.

We've covered nine economic indicators for examining an economy, though many more exist. Many are related, even if they appear in separate areas. Economists consistently debate which ones are more important when determining a country's current and future economic strength.

The One Big Beautiful Bill is more than just a catchy name — it brings significant tax changes that will affect a wide range of taxpayers, from tip workers and overtime earners to high-net-worth individuals and retirees.

Where will you live if you need some type of assistance? Reviewing the options can be overwhelming. Before making a decision, have a clear understanding of the services provided as well as the financial impact.

Apple, Microsoft, Amazon, Google, Meta, Nvidia, and Tesla are collectively investing hundreds of billions into AI infrastructure. JPMorgan's Michael Cembalest doesn't mince words—he calls it "the stock market bet of the century."

Invariably, the end goal is to lower the overall value of your estate to limit your estate tax liability. There are several ways to reduce your taxable estate. You can donate to charities, give a gift to family members, or use specific trusts.

The Fed does not give a specific rate that is the ideal baseline. Instead, it is all relative. It decides to adjust this rate up or down depending on what is happening in the economy, with priority often given to keeping inflation in check.

The annuity marketplace has evolved, and many modern annuities now offer reduced fees and greater transparency. Before purchasing, make sure you fully understand the costs involved.