Investments Archives - HFM Investment Advisors, LLC

In this episode, Jason takes a deep dive into the key financial events of 2024. From understanding the S&P 500's stellar 25% performance to exploring the nuances of inflation, unemployment, and GDP growth, Jason provides a comprehensive reflection on a remarkable year for both the stock market and the economy. He also tackles pressing questions about investment strategies, including the role of diversification, the pitfalls of over-relying on dividends, and how to align your portfolio with your long-term goals. If you're wondering how to stay grounded in the face of market unpredictability, this episode is for you. Tune into…

Are Multi-Year Guaranteed Annuities a Smart Choice in a Rising Rate Market?

Investments, Podcast

In this episode, Jason Gabrieli, a certified financial planner at HFM Investment Advisors, discusses the increasing interest in multi-year guaranteed annuities as interest rates rise. With more clients and insurance agents inquiring about these products, Jason dives into the pros and cons, potential pitfalls, and considerations to make before adding them to your financial plan. If you're curious about annuities or have received pitches recently, this episode will provide you with essential information to help you make informed decisions. Tune into this episode to also learn: How higher interest rates impact financial products like annuities. The differences between various types…

Election Concerns and Investing… Mix at Your Own Risk

Investments, Podcast

Welcome to this episode of the Dollar Wise Podcast. In this episode, Jason Gabrieli discusses the growing concern around election outcomes and their potential impact on investments. With the media heightening fear and uncertainty, Jason offers insight into why emotions can mislead investors and how focusing on long-term goals is essential. He also explains how historical data shows a limited correlation between presidential elections and stock market performance. Jason reminds us to control what we can and stay disciplined in our investment strategy.Tune into this episode to also learn: How to stay disciplined with your investments during election cycles…

Unlocking Tax Benefits with Charitable Distributions: A Strategy for Charitable Givers

Financial Wellness, Investments

At HFM, one of the most significant values we provide our clients is leveraging our experience in helping hundreds successfully navigate through life's transitions. This episode of the Dollar Wise Podcast delves into a financial strategy that many may not fully understand: the tax benefits of charitable giving through Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs). Charitable Giving and Tax Benefits: What You Need to Know When donating to charity, most people assume they’ll receive a tax deduction by simply providing the receipt to their accountant. However, due to changes in tax laws, this isn’t always the case. The Tax Cuts and Jobs…

This Is Normal

Financial Wellness, Investments, Wellness

We know that navigating the stock market's ups and downs can be challenging, especially during periods of increased volatility. To provide some perspective and reassurance, we wanted to share some insights from a recent blog article by one of our favorite writers in the financial community, Ben Carlson (read his blog HERE) that sheds light on the current stock market situation and the nature of market corrections. In his article, Ben highlights the striking chart above showing the unusual calmness of the stock market in 2024 up to last week. Until this point, 2024 had only one day where the…

How Do You Teach Your Kids The Importance Of Money?

Investments, Wellness

Transforming Financial Education for Families: A Conversation with Chad Willardson By Jason Gabrieli In our most recent podcast, I had the pleasure of interviewing Chad Willardson, the president and founder of Pacific Capital, and a renowned author and advocate for financial literacy among children. Chad's impressive portfolio includes five bestselling books, such as "Smart, Not Spoiled" and his latest, "Wealth Wired Differently." He is also the co-host of the "Smart Money Parenting" show and the co-founder of GravyStack and the Dinner Table Community. Our discussion delved into his innovative approach to teaching kids about money, the genesis of GravyStack, and…

Don’t Let 5% Savings Accounts Distract You From Investing for the Long Term

Financial Wellness, Investments, Podcast, Retirement Planning

Welcome back to the Dollar Wise Podcast. In this episode, Jason Gabrieli, CFP®, discusses the current trend of keeping money in cash. With high-yield savings accounts offering around 5%, many investors are unsure whether to invest or leave their money in cash. Jason highlights the importance of understanding historical returns and differentiating between short-term and long-term financial goals. He demonstrates how long-term investments in bonds and stocks have historically outperformed cash, despite recent attractive yields. The episode encourages listeners to align their cash holdings with their financial objectives and offers insights into market trends and behavioral finance. Tune into this…

Unlock the True Potential of Your 401(k) Savings

Financial Wellness, Investments, Podcast, Retirement Planning

Jason Gabrieli and Tyler Reedman, both CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNERS at HFM Investment Advisors, dispel common misconceptions about 401(k) contributions. They dissect the difference between matching the employer’s contribution and maxing out a 401(k). They discuss contribution limits and strategies to increase contributions incrementally so you can optimize your savings. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to take full advantage of their 401(k) potential. Tune into this episode to also learn: The real meaning of 'maxing out' your 401(k) and common misconceptions. How automatic escalation can effortlessly boost your 401(k) savings. The impact of choosing between Roth and…

Charge Up Your Savings: Home Improvement and EV Tax Credit Overview

Financial Wellness, Investments, Podcast

Home improvements, purchasing electric vehicles, and installing a qualified vehicle refueling and recharging apparatus at your home could entitle you to a tax credit. Jason reviews the different types of credits, their requirements, and the importance of consulting a tax advisor to optimize these opportunities to integrate them into your financial plan. Tune into this episode to also learn: Specifics of energy-efficient home improvement credits for installations like doors, windows, and HVAC systems. Details of the residential clean energy credit for adding renewable energy sources to your home. Insights into tax credits for purchasing new and used clean vehicles, including…

Bitcoin ETF, Where Does It Fit Into Your Investments?

Financial Wellness, Investments, Podcast

Bitcoin has made a comeback in the last few weeks with the SEC's recent approval of Bitcoin ETFs. So, what does this mean for investors? Jason explains the implications of the Bitcoin ETFs, their accessibility for average investors, and the impact of this development on the value of Bitcoin while evaluating the risks regarding your investment strategy. He also discusses the broader context of investing in volatile assets like Bitcoin and offers guidance on approaching them within a diversified investment portfolio. Tune into this episode to also learn: The fundamentals of Bitcoin ETFs and their role in the financial market…