By Colleen Weber, CFP^®, CPA 

You’ve probably heard the phrase “Don’t put all your eggs in one basket.” The more I’ve helped people manage their finances, the more I’ve seen how true this is. Most advisors will tell you that diversification is the best way to structure your investments, but what about that company that seems to be the next big thing? We want to get on the hype train and start buying up stocks in that company, right? But here’s the quite literal million-dollar question: How much stock from one company is safe to own? 

Now, there’s no easy answer to that question, but there’s no denying that when you concentrate your investments on an individual stock, the risk goes way up. Let me show you why.

By Colleen Weber, CFP^®, CPA

The market has many people frustrated, and the economic forecast appears to be predicting more of the same. But just because the market isn’t performing well doesn’t mean your finances have to follow suit.

As our client, you understand this, and with a financial plan already in place, you no longer need to lose sleep over rising interest rates, inflation, or an impending recession. You know that working with a trusted financial advisor reduces the impact negative global events can have on your finances. 

The question is, could someone you know benefit from a partnership like this as well?

By Colleen Weber, CFP^®, CPA

Our finances tell a story—and as every author knows, a good story has a well-developed beginning, middle, and end. 

But if you let emotions write your financial story, you could be in need of some revisions.

Whether we know it or not, we all subscribe to our own money script. Let’s take a look at what that means, how we can flip the script, and ultimately take emotions out of the equation.

By Colleen Weber, CFP^®, CPA

Banks play a vital role in the economy, providing individuals and businesses with access to cash, credit, and other financial services. Despite their importance, however, banks can fail. And when they do, the effects often cause panic in the wider economic environment. 

By Colleen Weber, CFP^®, CPA

Tax season is here, and many are already feeling the stress that comes from sifting through the complexity of the tax code. However, with the right knowledge and resources, you can get the support you need to take advantage of available deductions and keep more of your hard-earned money. Read on for 6 of the most commonly overlooked deductions that can help you save on your tax return and put more in your pocket.

By Colleen Weber, CFP^®, CPA

Your moment of retirement has almost arrived! With only 12 months left until your official retirement date, you are nearing the finish line after years of hard work. What an accomplishment! It’s an exciting time of life, and yet, it’s important to remain focused to ensure your retirement plan goes as smoothly as possible. To support you through this transition, I’ve created a checklist of the key steps you need to make during this last year before financial freedom becomes real. Read on to utilize this checklist to keep you on track.

By Colleen Weber, CFP^®, CPA

Happy Holidays! After another year filled with volatility, I’ve never been more grateful to have clients like you. I appreciate your continued trust in me and the opportunity to provide an exceptional experience. It is my goal to help you feel confident in your future and prepared for whatever comes your way. I hope you’re able to ring in this holiday season with peace and joy, knowing that I’m watching out for you and your finances. 

By Colleen Weber, CFP^®, CPA

As both a Certified Public Accountant and a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional with over 15 years of experience in the industry, I’ve spent my entire professional career learning as much as I can to better serve my clients. Because of this, I often get asked about my top pieces of financial advice. Clients are usually surprised to hear that out of all the fancy investment vehicles, tax-planning strategies, and insurance products out there, my top two financial lessons have less to do with specific products or investments and much more to do with having the right mentality. So, if I could only pass on two pieces of financial advice, I would say: Drown out the noise and take emotions out of your financial plan. 

By Colleen Weber, CFP^®, CPA

Capital gains can be an ugly phrase to most investors. But those gains are a positive for you; it means that an investment or asset you held and sold did well and earned you a profit. And as with any profit, the IRS will come calling. Today let’s discuss four strategies to help you minimize your capital gains taxes.

By Colleen Weber, CFP^®, CPA

Executives are not compensated in the same way as regular employees. Their income is usually tied heavily to the value of their company because their compensation packages commonly contain restricted stock, not to be confused with restricted stock units (RSUs). Because of the complicated nature of restricted stock, employees who receive them need to plan ahead to consider the tax implications. Let this serve as a guide when planning to get the most value out of your restricted stock.