> The Per Stirling Blog: What to ask a Financial Advisor

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10

April

Per Stirling Capital Outlook – April

In the March Per Stirling Capital Outlook, we cautioned that, while the equity markets were already approaching “correction” territory (generally defined as a decline of between 10% and 20%), and while many gauges of investor sentiment were already quite bearish, “we have yet to see much evidence of capitulation, which is another of the very […]

10

April

Should You Adjust Your 401(k) During Market Volatility? Read This First!

Market swings can feel like a financial rollercoaster, and if you’ve been checking your 401(k) balance lately, you might be wondering if you should make changes. Should you move to cash? Shift to more conservative investments? Or just stay the course? Before making any big decisions, let’s take a step back and explore how market […]

09

April

THOUGHTS: Advice from your future self!

I recently read an article in the WSJ (behind a paywall) that made me reflect on my life in future years.  Professors Christensen & Hershfield’s work here suggests that when we clearly visualize our future, we’re more likely to prioritize long-term financial planning.  This mental shift makes retirement goals, or the next life act feel […]

08

April

Per Stirling Volunteers – It’s My Park Day!

  In March, Per Stirling team members gathered with neighbors and other volunteers at Brentwood Park for It’s My Park Day. This biannual event brings together volunteers from all walks of life to enhance our city’s green spaces. We were proud to roll up our sleeves and be part of this meaningful community event. One […]

25

March

What is the Roth 401(k) five-year rule?

The Roth 401(k) five-year rule determines when you can begin receiving tax-free qualified distributions from your 401(k) plan Roth account. While it’s similar to the five-year rule that applies to Roth IRAs, there are important differences. Withdrawals from your Roth 401(k) plan account — including both your contributions and any investment earnings — are completely […]

18

March

Planning for the Future with an ABLE Account

If you or a family member has a disability, you may be interested in learning about a tax-advantaged option called an ABLE account which can be used to save or invest for qualified disability expenses. Most states have launched ABLE programs, and more are in the works. Why are ABLE accounts needed? Individuals with disabilities […]

17

March

Per Stirling Volunteers! – Abigail Keller Bear Drive

At Per Stirling, we recognize the importance of giving back to our community. Each month, our team selects a meaningful cause to support. In February, we were honored to participate in the Abigail Keller Bear Drive, an initiative dedicated to bringing happiness to children facing medical challenges. The Abigail Keller Bear Drive collects and donates […]

17

March

Per Stirling Capital Outlook – March

To paraphrase Sir John Templeton, “Bull markets are born in despair, grow in pessimism, mature in optimism, and die in euphoria”. Stock market declines can be a wonderful thing.  It just does not feel like it when you are in the midst of the storm.  Bear markets (declines of 20% or more) and corrections (declines […]

11

March

How to Align Your Wealth with Your Values Through Philanthropic Financial Planning

Philanthropic financial planning is about more than just managing your money—it’s a way to reflect your values through your financial decisions. By combining charitable giving with tax-efficient financial strategies, you can support the causes you care about while strengthening your financial plan and building a lasting legacy. In this article, we’ll explore the key methods […]

04

March

What is a self-employed retirement plan?

A self-employed retirement plan is a tax-deferred retirement savings program for self-employed individuals. In the past, the term “Keogh plan” or “H.R. 10 plan” was used to distinguish a retirement plan established by a self-employed individual from a plan established by a corporation or other entity. However, self-employed retirement plans are now generally referred to […]