“DOUBLE YOUR NEST EGG” the headline screamed. “Now’s the time to jump into cheap stocks, funds and real estate.” Bad timing for a magazine called “Smart Money.” This headline was on the cover of the October 2008 issue—immediately before an epic financial crisis and market meltdown.  In early October 2008, the Dow Jones Industrial Average …

Timing is Everything (but Predictable) Read More »

Legendary investor Warren Buffett once said, “Only when the tide goes out do you discover who’s been swimming naked.” This was the billionaire’s iconic way of saying that risky financial behaviors inevitably get exposed when economic conditions change dramatically.  Unless you have been snoozing the last 6-8 months, you probably know the economy is changing. …

The Problem with Swimming Naked Read More »

He had his eye on some land.   “Daddy always said land was a smart investment. I think so too. They’re not making any more of that,” he said with a smile. “I could borrow the money,” he continued. “But I look at those amortization tables, and it kills me to see how much interest …

Finances are More than Numbers Read More »

“I bet you’re getting a lot of calls.” I could tell by the background noise he was driving with his windows down. I suppose calling to needle me seemed a good way to pass the time. I didn’t take the bait. “Calls about what?”  “This dang market,” he said. “Inflation is out of control. Fuel …

When the Markets are Making You Nervous Read More »

When I was in my 20s my father sold his business and retired. His commitment was to give a portion of the proceeds to charity. But he also wanted that money to have a long-term impact…on worthy local causes and also on his family. So, following some good advice, he and my mother created a …

A Legacy of Generosity Read More »

A lot of people use the term “financial plan” to refer to “a savings and investment plan.” I always wince. I’ve yet to meet someone who says, “My life goal is to save and invest money.” What people tell me is, “I want to save and invest money so that one day I can …” …

The Problem with Most Financial Plans Read More »