High Incomes Don't Stretch as Far as They Used To: Here's How to Fix That Without Earning More
In his own Kiplinger byline, Ron Tallou explains why bigger paychecks often still feel like not enough, and how paying yourself first and saving a fixed percentage builds financial stability regardless of income.
Sequence-of-Returns Risk: What to Know
Ron Tallou warns that one of the most common retirement mistakes is withdrawing money without assessing how each holding has recently performed, and explains how a three-bucket strategy can protect income during a downturn.
12 Investments No Retiree Should Make
Ron Tallou warns that just one or two bad years can set back a retirement plan, and walks through the investments retirees should avoid, from rental flips and alternative funds to the variable annuity he would tear up on the spot.
6 Powerful Ways to Increase Net Worth
Ron Tallou reminds savers that savings accounts alone do not accumulate long-term wealth, in a Forbes roundup of six strategies to grow net worth, from strategic debt payoff to bucketing assets by time horizon.
4 Financial Habits to Break After Age 50 If You Want to Retire on Time
Ron Tallou explains how to gauge whether your fixed income sources will cover retirement, and why speculative stocks and large new debt become far riskier as you near the end of your working years.
Index Funds Versus Mutual Funds
Ron Tallou explains why index funds suit investors who want to take the guesswork out of buying, and how to weigh fees, taxes and track records when choosing between index funds and actively managed mutual funds.
5 Best BlackRock ETFs to Buy and Hold
Ron Tallou shares what to look for in any ETF beyond expense ratios, including price per share, portfolio mix and track record, in a U.S. News review of five standout BlackRock iShares funds.
Gen Z Investing: How to Choose Between Stocks, Bonds and Mutual Funds
Ron Tallou recommends Gen Z investors focus on large cap growth ETFs or mutual funds rather than picking individual stocks, explaining that portfolio managers at investment institutions make those calls on your behalf and large cap growth funds typically deliver the best long-term returns.
7 Best Tech ETFs to Buy in 2024
Ron Tallou highlights the ProShares Ultra Technology ETF for investors with a large appetite for returns, while warning that leverage works both ways. The article reviews seven top tech ETFs including funds tracking semiconductors, breakthrough technologies and global tech companies.
Put Away Your Debit Card: Why All Your Purchases Should Go on Credit
Ron Tallou explains why using a rewards credit card for everyday purchases beats using a debit card, highlighting cash-back rewards on essentials like groceries and gas, fraud protection benefits, and credit-building advantages.
6 Things to Do With Money in Your 20s, According to Financial Experts
Ron Tallou stresses the importance of starting a saving plan early, noting there's never a perfect time to save. The article covers money mindset, budgeting, emergency funds, early investing, and the power of compound growth for people in their 20s.
6 Best No-Load Mutual Funds
Ron Tallou highlights the Fidelity Select Semiconductors Portfolio as a top no-load mutual fund for long-term wealth accumulation, noting the semiconductor industry's growth potential alongside the risks of volatile returns.
Tired of Credit Card Debt? Cut These Expenses to Eliminate Debt Fast
Ron Tallou warns about the dangers of high-interest credit card debt and the article outlines five practical ways to cut everyday expenses, from restaurants and unused subscriptions to coffee shops and commuting costs.
Factors to Consider Before Cashing Out a 401(k)
Ron Tallou explains the factors to weigh before cashing out a 401(k), including tax penalties, borrowing options, rollover alternatives, and the long-term cost of lost compound growth.
Short-Term vs. Long-Term CDs: Which Is Best?
Ron Tallou breaks down the differences between short-term and long-term CDs, explaining when each makes sense and how CD laddering combines the benefits of both strategies.
A New Retirement Plan for Millions of Americans Ready for Something Different
Ron Tallou discusses why many Americans are frustrated with their 401(k) plans and how portable retirement plans offer more control, better investment choices, and seamless job-to-job portability.
How to Use Debt to Build Wealth
Ron Tallou explains how borrowing strategically can generate positive cash flow and build wealth. The article covers researching investments, having backup plans, choosing reliable partners, and cash-flowing assets you can buy with a loan.
Which States Don't Tax Retirement Income?
Ron Tallou explains how retirees on fixed incomes can save thousands by understanding state tax rules on retirement income. The article covers which states don't tax Social Security, pensions, 401(k)s, IRAs, TSPs, military retirement and estates.
For Financial Pros, Working with Family Members Isn't Easy
Ron Tallou shares insights on the challenges of advising family members, from managing expectations and keeping business separate from personal, to being transparent about fees and service levels.
These Are the Assets Investors Are Turning to for Protection in the Market's Latest Rout
Ron Tallou highlights the Fidelity Advisor Energy Fund as a strong diversification option during market downturns, noting its standout performance as a 'rock star' while other asset classes struggled.
What a Bear Market Means for Retirees
Ron Tallou discusses how fixed and indexed annuities can protect conservative investors in bear markets, and warns retirees to stress test their finances against inflation to avoid running out of money.
How to Prepare Kids Financially
Ron Tallou explains the benefits of 529 college savings plans, where parents maintain ownership and can change beneficiaries if needed. He also encourages young adults not to be afraid of investing and learning from market ups and downs.
The Pros and Cons of Annuities
Ron Tallou weighs in on annuity pros and cons in Forbes, noting that annuities may restrict access to your money and advising potential buyers to ask questions since annuities can be structured in many ways.
How to Retire During a Recession
Ron Tallou explains how retirement planning software can project whether your assets will sustain your desired income, factoring in inflation, Social Security, and sequence of returns risk during a downturn.
How to Unretire
Ron Tallou discusses why retirees return to work, from financial need to loneliness after losing a spouse, and how going back to work can improve mental health through new friendships and purpose.
It's Not Too Late for You to Start Investing. Take These Next Steps.
Ron Tallou explains how IRAs and mutual funds can help late starters build a bigger nest egg through tax-deferred growth, and why fixed indexed annuities offer downside protection for older investors.
8 Simple Ways for People in Their 20s to Begin Saving Now
Ron Tallou shares practical tips for people in their 20s to start saving, including automated savings strategies through employer-sponsored plans like 401(k)s and the power of starting early.
How 2022 Tax Code Changes May Affect Financial Advisors' Clients
Ron Tallou explains how rising inflation led to adjusted tax brackets for 2022, offering middle-class relief. The article covers changes to Roth conversions, increased 401(k) contribution limits, and updated estate and gift tax exemptions.