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Send us a text Brian Akers and Jeff Akers discuss strategies for maximizing retirement savings in 2025. They highlight the importance of contributing to retirement plans, emphasizing the tax advantages of qualified plans like IRAs and 401(k)s. For IRAs, the base limit is $7,000 annually, with a $1,000 catch-up for those over 50, totaling $8,000. Employer-sponsored plans allow up to $23,500 annually, with a $7,500 catch-up for those over 50, totaling $31,000. They also discuss the benefits of Roth IRAs, which offer tax-free growth and withdrawals, and the importance of starting early and regularly reviewing and contributing to retirement accounts.…

Send us a text Brian Akers and Alex Monk discuss the concept of "rothification," or converting pre-tax retirement accounts to Roth IRAs to pay taxes now and enjoy tax-free growth. They explain the history of Roth IRAs, which began in 1998, and the rules for qualified withdrawals at age 59 1/2. They emphasize the importance of tracking contributions on Form 8606 to avoid paying taxes twice. The conversation also covers the benefits of Roth conversions for high-income earners and those nearing required minimum distributions. Additionally, they highlight the strategic use of Roth accounts in estate planning and the potential tax savings for future generations.…

Send us a text Brian Akers and Paul Franco discuss strategies for minimizing taxes during retirement. They emphasize the importance of understanding your tax bracket and planning accordingly. Key points include the benefits of contributing to Roth IRAs, which offer tax-free growth, and the potential for Roth conversions to reduce future tax liabilities. They also highlight the Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) strategy, which allows retirees to donate up to $108,000 annually from their IRAs to charity, thus reducing taxable income. Additionally, they advise on the importance of proper withholding and planning to avoid unexpected tax bills.…

Send us a text Brian Akers and Alex Monk discuss the importance of being retirement ready, emphasizing that it involves both financial and emotional preparedness. They highlight the need for a comprehensive financial plan, including understanding one's income sources, managing cash flow, and planning for healthcare and lifestyle changes. They stress the importance of saving early and consistently, and the potential risks of early retirement, such as market volatility and the need to avoid high withdrawal rates. The conversation also touches on the benefits of financial planning, the role of advisors in guiding clients through retirement, and the importance of making informed decisions to ensure a secure financial future.…

Send us a text Brian Akers and Paul Franco from AKERS Financial Group discuss the importance of starting seriously with financial planning for a fun retirement. They emphasize the need to be proactive in planning, including understanding your financial situation, setting goals, and implementing strategies. They highlight the significance of comprehensive financial planning that includes asset allocation, income planning, estate planning, and tax strategies. The conversation also touches on the importance of regular reviews and adjustments to ensure financial stability. They encourage listeners to seek professional advice early and stress that planning should be tailored to individual needs and circumstances.…

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Send us a text Brian Akers and Mark Diorio from Brookstone Capital Management discuss market updates and investment strategies for 2025. Diorio highlights that the top 10 companies in the S&P 500 now represent 40% of the index, emphasizing the need for diversification. He notes that interest rates are expected to continue declining, with the 10-year treasury yield potentially reaching 5%. Diorio also mentions the importance of defensive sectors and value investing to mitigate market risks. Akers stresses the importance of tailoring portfolios to individual risk tolerances and goals, using a core and satellite approach. They encourage listeners to consult with financial advisors to ensure their investments align with their retirement plans.…

Send us a text Jeff and Brian Akers discuss charitable giving and retirement planning, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing one's time and money, understanding tax implications, and giving back to the community. They share strategies for maximizing charitable deductions, aligning financial decisions with values, and leveraging retirement accounts for giving. The conversation highlights the benefits of giving through reputable organizations and the importance of researching charities before donating.…

Send us a text Retirement planning is crucial for financial security, and it's important to start early and understand one's financial situation. Brian Akers and Alex Monk emphasize the need for personalized financial planning, tax optimization, and regular check-ins to ensure clients are on track towards their retirement objectives. They also discuss the importance of imagining oneself retired to help visualize the ideal retirement and make informed financial decisions. Brian and Alex highlight the significance of saving money, understanding investments, and finding a balance between enjoying life now and saving for the future. They also emphasize the importance of actively managing money, building protected and at-risk portfolios, and designing retirement income plans that consider taxes and inflation. https://www.akersfinancial.com/winning-in-retirement?utm_source=podcast%20description&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcast%20description…

Send us a text Brian Akers and Paul Franco discuss the importance of lowering portfolio risk as retirement approaches. They emphasize that as individuals get closer to retirement, they should scale down risk to preserve their money. Paul shares an example of a client who needed to reduce risk due to market performance and upcoming retirement. They explain that younger individuals can tolerate more volatility due to their longer time horizon. They also discuss the concept of target date funds and the benefits of diversification. Paul highlights the importance of regular portfolio reviews and the use of tools like stable value funds and fixed and indexed annuities to balance risk and protection.…

Send us a text Brian Akers and Paul Franco discuss retirement planning strategies inspired by nature. They highlight six tactics, including diversifying investments and creating a sustainable income stream, and provide examples from the natural world to emphasize the importance of preparation. They also explore the idea of retirement migration and planning, emphasizing the need to consider taxation, lifestyle preferences, and financial stability when deciding where to live in retirement. Throughout the conversation, they emphasize the importance of adaptation and proactivity in retirement planning. https://www.akersfinancial.com/winning-in-retirement?utm_source=podcast%20description&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcast%20description…

Send us a text Brian Akers and Alex Monk discuss the role of annuities in retirement planning, emphasizing their potential benefits as a protected income source for life. They also discuss the importance of understanding annuities and their associated fees, as well as the need for transparency and financial planning. Alex highlights the tax deferral benefits, investment options, and fees associated with annuities, while Brian raises concerns about relying solely on one investment tool. Both speakers emphasize the need for flexibility in financial planning and provided real-life examples of how annuities can be used to improve one's financial situation. https://www.akersfinancial.com/winning-in-retirement?utm_source=podcast%20description&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcast%20description…

Send us a text Brian Akers and Paul Franco discuss financial tips for those under 40, emphasizing the importance of early planning. They highlight the role of compound interest, urging listeners to start saving early to achieve financial independence. They stress the need to prioritize savings, avoid consumer debt, and understand expenses. Paul shares a client success story where consistent contributions over 26 years grew to $1.6 million. They also discuss the importance of having insurance, legal documents, and diversified investments. The rule of 72 is explained to illustrate the power of compounding, and they advise on maximizing employer matches and considering Roth contributions for tax efficiency.…

Send us a text Brian Akers and Jeff Akers, along with guest Mark Diorio from Brookstone Capital Management, discuss the impact of the recent election on the stock market and financial planning. Mark highlights that post-election, the market typically sees a rally, with cyclical sectors like energy and tech outperforming defensive sectors. He also notes the potential for continued interest rate reductions by the Fed, contingent on inflation and unemployment levels. Additionally, they cover the 2025 Medicare changes, including a $500 increase in 401(k) contribution limits and a new catch-up provision for those turning 60-63. They emphasize the importance of financial planning, including Medicare decisions and estate planning, to ensure a stress-free retirement.…