Blog
What’s on our mind? You can read about it in our blog. Whether it’s ideas from the industry or emerging trends, you can read about it here. And once in a while, we may throw in a movie review or some other surprise. So keep checking in. We’re glad to have you reading along.
Weekly Market Insights: Debt Deal Relieves Market Worries
Stocks surged higher in the closing days of a holiday-shortened trading week, ignited by a political resolution on raising the debt ceiling and a strong employment report.The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 2.02%, while the Standard...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Debt Talks Optimism Keeps Eyes on D.C.
Markets moved in sync last week with perceived movement in debt ceiling talks, weakening early in the week and then surging on news of progress. A solid quarterly report and guidance from a mega-cap technology company helped with...
Read MoreLiving Trusts: Understanding the Basics and Key Considerations
Estate management can be a complex and daunting task for many people, but it’s a critical step in helping your assets get managed and distributed according to your wishes.One popular tool that can be used in estate strategies is...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Despite Stall, Debt Deal Optimism Cheers Markets
Stocks rallied last week, propelled by growing optimism over reaching a deal on raising the debt ceiling and avoiding a technical debt default by the U.S.The Dow Jones Industrial Average edged 0.38% higher, while the Standard &...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Attention Turns to the Debt Ceiling
Stocks were mixed last week as good inflation news was offset by mounting debt ceiling concerns and rekindled regional banking fears.The Dow Jones Industrial Average lost 1.11%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 slipped 0.29%. The...
Read MoreShow All
Trying to Time a Recession?
Economies move in cycles – always have, always willThe Federal Reserve has been steadily increasing interest rates in an attempt to slow the rate of inflation. Its efforts are yielding some results, although inflation remains...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Friday Rally Trims Losses; CPI Report Next Week
A Friday rebound, triggered by a big tech company’s earnings beat and a strong jobs report, shaved much of the week’s accumulated losses.The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 1.24%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Stocks Rally As Attention Shifts to Fed's May Meeting
Strong earnings from several mega-cap technology companies offset renewed regional banking jitters and weak economic data, leaving stocks higher for the week.The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 0.86%, while the Standard &...
Read MoreWhat Factors Have the Greatest Impact on Your Credit Score?
Fun fact: You probably have dozens of credit scores out there, and each one might be a different number.You’re probably familiar with a credit score, why it’s essential, and what it’s used for, but do you know how...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Stocks show small losses after mixed week
Stocks remained resilient last week amid mixed earnings reports, hawkish Fed-speak, and lingering recession fears, closing out the five trading days with small losses.The Dow Jones Industrial Average slipped 0.23%, while the Standard &...
Read MoreImportant Financial Considerations to Make When Remarrying Later in Life
Discussing personal finances is important for any couple preparing for marriage. However, this topic can be more complicated for those who remarry later in life.If you’re remarrying later in life, one of your goals should be to...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Lower inflation lifts spirits in uneven week.
The combination of an improving inflation outlook resulted in a week of uneven, albeit positive, performance, in which cyclical and financial stocks rallied while technology, real estate, and utilities lagged. The Dow Jones...
Read More2 Slices of Toast
I was having breakfast recently at a highly recommended restaurant.The food, service and atmosphere were all great! However, what caught my attention was seemingly insignificant, but profound when observed by a former restaurant...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Hiring Cools; Recession Fears Rise.
Stocks ended a shortened week of trading mixed amid revived recession fears on Wall Street triggered by weak economic data.The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 0.63%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 slipped 0.10%. The Nasdaq...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Banking Crisis Fears Dim; Markets Rally
Stocks rallied last week on receding fears of a widening banking crisis, led by resurging investor interest in technology and communication services names.The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 3.22%, while the Standard & Poor’s...
Read MoreScooping The Poop
My daughter showed an interest in equestrian riding, specifically, "jumping" when she was 5 or 6 years old. She is now 14 and still jumping!I have supported her passion, but my wife has truly been the driver and fully engaged...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Mixed Message Provokes Volatility
Modest gains in major market indices masked sharp volatility amid the uncertainty arising from mixed messages emanating from public officials and revived banking fears. The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 1.18%, while the Standard...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Markets Cautious After Banking Woes; Awaiting Fed Reaction
Amid the reverberations of two U.S. banks being taken over by regulators and the spread of uncertainty to European banks, stocks trended higher last week on the strength of the technology sector.The Dow Jones Industrial Average was...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Bad News Gives Markets a One-Two Punch
Stocks tumbled last week as investors reconsidered their interest rate expectations after Fed Chair Powell’s Congressional testimony that rates may need to go higher. Stocks also were rattled when a west coast bank was placed...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Fed’s Reassurance Boosts Stocks.
A late-week surge, triggered by reassuring Fed-speak, propelled stocks higher last week.The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 1.75%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 advanced 1.90%. The Nasdaq Composite index picked up 2.58% for...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: FOMC Says Inflation is Still Too High
Concerns over a firmer monetary policy were heightened by fresh economic data, touching off a climb in bond yields and a slide in stock prices last week.The Dow Jones Industrial Average skidded 2.99%, while the Standard & Poor’s...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Mixed Results As Interest Rate Concerns Grow
Growing concerns about further interest rate hikes, prompted by fresh economic data, reversed early-week gains and left stocks mixed for the week.The Dow Jones Industrial Average slipped 0.13%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Mixed Feelings and Mixed Earnings
Stocks drifted lower as a week of mixed earnings reports and resurgent worries over Fed monetary policy dragged on investor sentiment. The Dow Jones Industrial Average slipped 0.17%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 declined...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Powell: Inflation Heading in the Right Direction
Stocks were mixed last week following better-than-expected corporate reports and increasing optimism over a slowdown in interest rates.The Dow Jones Industrial Average edged lower, slipping -0.15%. The Standard & Poor’s 500 rose...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Earnings and Data Tell Two Different Stories on Near Future.
Stocks added to their early 2023 gains amid a busy stream of mixed corporate earnings results and conflicting economic data.The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 1.81%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 added 2.47%. The Nasdaq...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Mixed Results Following Weak Economic Data
Stocks showed mixed results last week as recession fears resurfaced in response to weak economic data and a tepid start to a new corporate earnings season. The Dow Jones Industrial Average skidded 2.70%, while the Standard &...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Inflation Cools, Stocks Warm Up
Stocks rallied last week thanks to fresh confirmation of inflation’s cooling trend and growing optimism that an inflation slowdown may provide the Fed with space to ease up on future rate hikes.The Dow Jones Industrial Average...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: New Year's Rally in Reply to Positive Economic News
A strong Friday rally triggered by fresh signs of moderating inflation pushed stocks into positive territory to begin the new year. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 1.46%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 advanced 1.45%....
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Erratic Holiday Trading Leaves Stocks in Doldrums
In a holiday-shortened week, erratic trading left stocks marginally down for the week.The Dow Jones Industrial Average lost 0.17%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 slipped 0.14%. The Nasdaq Composite index fell 0.30%. The MSCI...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Recession Concerns, Fed Talk Keep Stocks Cold
Hawkish comments by the Fed and weak economic data heightened investors’ recession concerns and sent stocks lower last week.The Dow Jones Industrial Average lost 1.66%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 retreated 2.08%. The...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Stocks Slide on Recession Concerns
Recession fears and concerns that the Fed may consider a longer rate-hike cycle sent stocks lower for the week.The Dow Jones Industrial Average dropped 2.77%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 fell 3.37%. The Nasdaq Composite index...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Easing on Rate Hikes and Job Numbers Cheer Markets
Stocks ended higher last week as investors navigated the crosscurrents of a potential easing in future rate hikes and continued strength in the labor market.The Dow Jones Industrial Average edged 0.24% higher, while the Standard &...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Fed Talks Turkey on Lower Rates, Boosting Markets
Growing optimism that the Fed may be ready to ease future interest rate hikes sent stocks higher in a quiet trading week.The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 1.78%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 added 1.53%. The Nasdaq...
Read More2023 Tax-Bracket Updates & A BIG Thank you!
Short Clip on 7% inflation adjustments for 2023. Best of Winter Park Winners Announced!
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Markets Down Ahead of Thanksgiving Holiday
The stock market edged lower last week as it digested a crosscurrent of conflicting economic data and contrasting comments from Fed officials.The Dow Jones Industrial Average was flat (-0.01%), while the Standard & Poor’s 500...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Cooling Inflation Brings Market Gains
A cooling inflation number ignited a powerful rally on Thursday, sending stocks to strong gains for the week.The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 4.15%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 added 5.90%. The Nasdaq Composite index...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Stocks Slip After Powell Comments
Hawkish comments by Fed Chair Jerome Powell, following the announcement of another 75 basis points interest rate hike last week, cast a pall over financial markets, sending yields higher and stocks lower.The Dow Jones Industrial...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Plenty of Treats for Wall Street This Week
Stocks overcame poor earnings results from some of America’s largest companies to post gains last week as investors cheered positive earnings surprises, easing inflation and a rebound in economic growth.The Dow Jones Industrial...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Wall Street Flips the Script & Enjoys a Rally.
A positive start to a new earnings season and late-week hopes for a near-term easing in Fed rate hikes lifted investors’ spirits and powered stocks to gains for the week.The Dow Jones Industrial Average jumped 4.89%, while the...
Read MoreBest Of Winter Park Voting Ends Friday!
Hi Clients, family, and friends! This is a friendly reminder that this Friday (10/21/22) is the last day to submit your votes for 2022's Best of Winter Park- Financial Planning Firm! As you know, we at Security Finacial Management...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Volatility Reigns; Inflation Remains Unchecked.
Stocks were mixed last week amid wide intra- and inter-day price swings, as technology shares bore the brunt of the downdraft.The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 1.15% for the week. Meanwhile, the Standard & Poor’s 500...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Boost Early in Week Keeps Markets Ahead
A powerful two-day stock rebound cemented a positive week for investors as a new trading month began.The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 1.99%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 added 1.51%. The Nasdaq Composite index increased 0...
Read MoreOur Founder's Food For Thought (Today's Market)!
Security Financial Management is proud to announce the reinstatement of our "Financially Speaking with SFM" broadcast! Please watch Our Founder's Food For Thought on today's market conditions! "Financially Speaking with SFM" is now hosted i
Read MoreBest of Winter Park 2022
Best of Winter Park 2022 Voting! Hello Friends, Family, and ClientsIt’s that time of year again to VOTE for The Best Businesses and Cultural Institutions in Winter Park! Security Financial Management is fortunate to be...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: U.S. and U.K. See Financial Turbulence
Rising recession fears and uncertainty in the bond and currency markets sent stocks to new 2022 lows last week.The Dow Jones Industrial Average declined 2.92%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 slumped 2.91%. The Nasdaq Composite...
Read MoreHurricane Safety Tips
As you know, hurricane season can be very hectic, and The Security Financial Management Team wants to check-in with you and your family! Please note 20+ Hurricane Safety Tips as we all prepare and take the necessary precautions!
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Fallout From Powell Comments Continues
Last week, Fed Chair Powell said the U.S. would not tame inflation without economic pain. This week heightened recession fears and sent stocks broadly lower.The Dow Jones Industrial Average dropped 4.00%, while the Standard &...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: White Hot Inflation Report Alarms Investors
A hotter-than-expected inflation report sent stocks sharply lower last week as investors faced the prospect of more aggressive interest rate hikes by the Federal Reserve for perhaps a longer period.The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Markets Upbeat, Despite Gloomy Inflation Talk
In a holiday-shortened week of trading, stocks posted healthy gains despite more tough talk on monetary policy from Fed officials.The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 2.66%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 gained 3.65%. The...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Markets Sag, Job Numbers Soar
The overhang of Fed Chair Powell’s Jackson Hole speech the previous week carried over into last week as investors recalibrated stock valuations amid a seemingly more assertive monetary policy stance.The Dow Jones Industrial...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Powell comments spur sell-off on Wall Street
A comprehensive sell-off on Friday following comments by Fed Chair Jerome Powell drove stocks to losses for the week.The Dow Jones Industrial Average tumbled 4.22%, while the Standard & Poor's 500 dropped 4.04%. The Nasdaq Composite...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Markets Tap Brakes, But Hold Fast Against Downbeat News
Stocks tumbled on Friday, sending stocks to a weekly loss after an otherwise quiet August week of trading.The Dow Jones Industrial Average slipped -0.16%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 lost 1.21%. The Nasdaq Composite index...
Read MoreSFM Market Review
Record high inflation, rising interest rates, and recession fears led equities lower in June. Emerging markets (-6.6%), outperformed both US (-8.3%) and international equities (-9.3%) during the month. Within emerging markets, Chinese equi
Read MoreRevisiting Bonds: The Interest Rate Conundrum
The Federal Reserve’s recent attempt to tame inflation has resulted in a sharp decline in bond prices. The current situation is incredibly unique. Through May 31, 2022, core bonds, as represented by the Bloomberg US Aggregate index, have fa
Read MoreWho Called in the Bears?
The markets have officially crossed into bear territory with the S&P falling +20%. In this video Our CIO, Kara Murphy takes a look at the equity and fixed income markets and some of our favorite indicators about the current market...
Read MoreHistory of Bull & Bear Markets
History of Bull & Bear MarketsBehavioral science tells us current events have a greater impact on our perception and decisions than the past. In 2022, investors are faced with extreme uncertainty given record inflation and recession...
Read MoreMarket Outlook Update (5/9/22) - Respected Economist
5/9/22 - Market outlook and analysis from well-respected Economist...Brian Wesburg and his team!
Read MoreSFM VOTED 20 BEST WINTER PARKS 2021 BEST FINANCIAL PLANNING FIRM 3RD YEAR IN A ROW
Three Consecutive Years On Top!! Wow! Unbelievably humbled, honored, and appreciative of our community, clients, and every individual who showed our firm support! Thank you for voting Security Financial Management for the third...
Read MoreFinancial Pitfalls Federal Employees Should Avoid
Everyone experiences financial pitfalls, and federal employees are no different. From not having a financial plan, starting to save for retirement too late, or not being aware of your expenses, to being underinsured, the list could go...
Read More2021 Best of Winter Park
The Winter Park Chamber of Commerce is accepting votes to select the best companies in town. In 2019 and 2020, Security Financial Management was recognized as the Best Financial Planning Firm. Our firm is honored, once again, to be...
Read More4 Reasons Why You May Be Due for a Life Insurance Review
All types of insurance are based on the premise of “better safe than sorry.” We all know it’s wise to put precautionary measures in place before calamity strikes. But shopping for insurance—particularly life...
Read MoreWhat Women Really Want in Retirement
Women face unique retirement challenges that men (on average) simply don’t have to manage. For instance, even though women today are better educated and have more career opportunities than ever before, (1) they still consistently...
Read MoreHave You Had the Financial Talk With Your Kids? We’re Here to Help
Some topics are more challenging than others to discuss with your children. I’m not talking about the birds and the bees; I’m talking about dollars and cents! Parents want their children to succeed financially, but...
Read MoreHow COBRA coverage can affect your Medicare
In 1985, COBRA was enacted to protect workers after leaving a job to be covered under their employer’s plan for up to 18 months. The intent of this law was to protect the American worker until they found gainful employment and...
Read MoreWhat We Do And How We Can Help
Financial planning isn’t just about the numbers, it’s about your life. But it can be difficult to know where to start and how to create a plan that reflects your values, personality, goals, and circumstances. At Security...
Read MoreThe Benefits of a Life Insurance Policy Review
You’ve heard the old saying; the only certainties in life are death and taxes. Well, that’s one way to get into the conversation about life insurance. We’ve often heard no one wants life insurance, but they do want...
Read MoreYour Digital Estate Planning Guide
You’re probably familiar with the basics of estate planning: wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and medical directives. Maybe you’ve even organized and documented your life so that someone else can manage things if...
Read MoreClient Profile: How We Helped A Couple Organize Their Finances And Plan To Retire With Confidence
The Client The couple in this case study came to Security Financial Management in need of reassurance and guidance for retirement. Both in their 50s, the husband is a successful executive working for Lockheed Martin and the wife works...
Read MoreUpdates To Your Lockheed Martin Savings Plans Coming Soon
As many may already know, Lockheed Martin has a very competitive benefits package. If you work at Lockheed Martin or know someone who works at Lockheed Martin, it is important to be informed of some changes in the very near future....
Read MoreJust in Case You Missed the Last Financially Speaking with SFM on WOFL Fox 35
We are excited to announce our TV show "Financially Speaking with SFM" Please tune in, Sunday at 11am on WOFL Fox 35 | Watch our exclusive financial and market updates!
Read MoreImportant Things To Know About Long-Term Care Planning
There are certain things you don’t want to gamble with in life, like your retirement savings, how you raise your kids, or your health, just to name a few. But there is one risk you may not even be aware that you’re taking,...
Read MoreHow the Internet Gamed Wall Street’s Short Sellers
You may have heard the news about stocks for certain companies suddenly ballooning, quickly going from lunch money prices to several hundred dollars a share. In one case, the shares rose over 1700% since December 2020.1 So, what...
Read MoreA Guide to Potential Tax Law Changes Under President Biden
This an article from Wealth Management.com, regarding proposed income and payroll tax changes. Please let us know if you would like to discuss and we will be happy to collaborate with your tax advisor and estate planning attorney to...
Read MoreJoin Us For An Exclusive Webinar With Economist, Strider Elass
Are you worried about the future of our economy? Have the chaotic events of 2020 left you wondering how a volatile economy might affect your own finances? If so, you’re not alone. In January, more than 50% of Americans are still...
Read More5 Highlights of the New Stimulus Package
After a bit of political posturing in December, the $900 billion Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021 (2021 CAA) was signed into law by President Trump as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to impact employers and employees...
Read More5 Highlights of the New Stimulus Package
After a bit of political posturing in December, the $900 billion Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021 (2021 CAA) was signed into law by President Trump as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to impact employers and employees...
Read MoreThinking of You During the Holidays
For many of us, 2020 has been a year unlike any other. For some, it’s brought hardships that have tested the hardiest of souls. For others, it has brought unspeakable loss. Yet, we press on, and as we do, we may be surprised to...
Read MoreThe Social Security Administration Announces 2021 COLA
On October 13, 2020, the Social Security Administration (SSA) officially announced that Social Security recipients will receive a 1.3 percent cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for 2021. This adjustment will begin with benefits payable...
Read MoreHow to Pursue a Regret-Free Retirement
Retirement is the resolution of your career, the time for all those decades of working and saving to finally pay off. The last thing you want to experience at this momentous milestone is regret. Although regret is simply a part of life...
Read MoreCoronavirus Vaccines and the Economy
As the United States sees a rise in cases of COVID-19 across the nation, news of two promising vaccines out of hundreds being tested has offered a ray of hope for a fatigued world.1A positive reaction to these vaccines affects every...
Read MoreSimple Fees You Can Understand? It’s Possible
Not only can talking about money be uncomfortable, but the intricacies of how financial advisors work can seem overly complicated. This is likely one of the reasons why investors are confused by wealth management fees and don’t...
Read MoreOnce Again, Security Financial Management Makes “The Best Of Winter Park” List!
Every year, the Winter Park Chamber of Commerce reaches out to the community to nominate, vote for, and celebrate the best local businesses and cultural institutions in over 30 categories. We are proud to announce, for the second year...
Read MoreHow Much Power Does The President Really Have Over The Economy?
We are less than a month away from the much-anticipated 2020 presidential election. Debates are in full swing, the political news cycle is endless, and we’re hearing plenty about the platforms the candidates are campaigning on,...
Read MoreWE ARE A GENESIS HOUSE CHAMPION!
Please join us in celebrating the 43rd Anniversary of Genesis House through the month of October! Genesis House provides emergency shelter for suddenly homeless mothers and their children, student mothers with children who need help to...
Read More2020 Best of Winter Park
The Winter Park Chamber of Commerce is accepting votes to select the best companies in town. In 2019, Security Financial Management was recognized as the Best Financial Planning Firm. Our firm is honored, once again, to be nominated...
Read MoreWhat Should You Do Now About Your 401(k)?
To say that 2020 has thrown us a few curveballs is putting it mildly! You are undoubtedly experiencing some anxiety concerning your retirement plans (among other things). And although much is out of your control right now, take comfort...
Read MoreWorried About Your Financial Plan? Schedule A Q&A Call Today
The coronavirus pandemic and its far-reaching implications has wreaked havoc across the globe. Calling these uncertain times sounds like a gross understatement that doesn’t do justice to the level of stress you’re...
Read MoreMeet Our Advisor Team: Viki And Suzanne [Video]
Entrusting your money to someone else is not something you do blindly. Whomever you choose to work with will have an important role in your financial future, so we thought you might want to get to know our advisor team a bit more so...
Read MoreStrategies To Grow Your Wealth During The 2020 Financial Crisis
To say the coronavirus pandemic has taken the world by storm wouldn’t do justice to the severity of the situation. Unfortunately, we’re having to balance the negative effects of this widespread virus with job loss, reduced...
Read MoreKnow your 401(k) options between jobs
Few life events are more stressful than a job loss. If you or someone you know is in this situation due to COVID-19, you’ll likely have several questions about job hunting, unemployment insurance, and health care. You may also...
Read MoreOur offices are opened and we are ready to serve you!
Dear Valued Clients and Friends, As we continue to navigate through these unprecedented times, we want to remind you that our offices are currently opened, if you need anything. We are available for in person meetings (keeping in mind...
Read MoreThe Long Game!
The recent market volatility serves as another reminder of how markets can react, when fear and uncertainty strike. I often wonder what people are feeling and thinking right before they act to sell investments, after a sizable decline...
Read MoreWhy it’s important to us that you understand your Medicare options
Security Financial Management has been known for its diversified approach to investing and financial planning. Many people think of a financial planning firm as giving advice on money and how to invest. But, there are many other...
Read MoreMeet Our Team Member: Terry George
Security Financial Management has a strong management team, but more than that, we consider everyone who touches your account to be an important part of our family. On this team, you’ll find people who share our vision of doing...
Read More3 Ways To Clean Up Your Finances While At Home For Social Distancing
If you’re like most Americans, you’ve suddenly found yourself spending all your time at home. With the absence of commuting, socializing, or other outside-the-home activities, you may be wondering how you can make the best...
Read MoreSFM Wants To Give Back!
The team of financial advisors at Security Financial Management wants to give back to our community during the coronavirus pandemic. We are now offering pro bono financial advice during this crisis. Got Questions? Email Us At...
Read MoreHow Does the 2020 CARES Act apply to you?
Last week Congress passed the 2020 CARES Act, the name being an acronym for the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act. The $2.2 trillion-dollar program is the largest economic stimulus package in United States history. The...
Read MoreImportant Update From Your Security Financial Management Team
Your Security Financial Management team is committed to your well-being and to providing the highest quality service to you through all kinds of situations. As our community and world deals with the rapidly developing coronavirus...
Read MoreWhat You Need To Know About Recessions And Bear Markets
As global markets continue their roller coaster ride due to fears surrounding the coronavirus, our most recent bull market officially turned into a bear market. But what does that mean? And are we on the verge of another recession like...
Read MoreReschedule of the Ribbon Cutting with SFM of Brevard and The Red Cross of Brevard
Celebrate our new office with us! Meet and Greet / Ribbon Cutting Wednesday, March 25th 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM 8245 Devereux Dr.; Suites 101 and 103; Melbourne, FL 32940 Please join Security Financial Management of Brevard and the American...
Read MoreYour 2020 Social Security Guide
Are you planning on Social Security making up a significant portion of your retirement income? If so, you’re in the same boat as more than half of American retirees. (1) With a program that impacts so many individual lives, you...
Read MoreWEBINAR: 5 Challenges to Retirement Planning
Did you know that those age 65 today can expect to pay $285,000 in out-of-pocket healthcare costs in retirement?. These expenses can quickly derail your golden years—especially if you never see them coming. But excessive...
Read MoreWhat Should You Do About The Coronavirus And Stock Market Volatility?
The financial markets took a big dip early this week over fears about the spreading coronavirus, erasing gains from earlier this year. After the Dow lost over 800 points on Tuesday, it was down a total of 1,900 points in two days. (1)...
Read MoreCould A Donor-Advised Fund Save You Money On Taxes?
Do you remember the days when you could give generously to others and get a nice tax break as an added benefit? Even if you didn’t donate money for the sole purpose of saving on your taxes, it was a nice perk come tax time....
Read MoreInsurance and estate planning are as important as retirement and investment planning!
Last month the sports world was shocked at the tragic death of Kobe Bryant, his daughter and seven others. As financial advisors, one of the first things we think about is, we hope his estate planning was in order! Especially for his...
Read MoreDid You Know We Have An Office In Rochester, MN?
If you’re one of our clients, you probably know we have multiple offices in Florida to serve your needs. But did you know that we also have an office in Rochester, Minnesota? As our firm continues to grow, we want to be able to...
Read MoreStrategies for a New You! How boxing keeps me focused
It never fails when it comes to each New Year! We all have these goals, to better ourselves: get in better shape, lose weight, get more organized, have a budget, save for retirement, travel and the list goes on and on. Somehow after...
Read MoreHow To Maximize Your Charitable Giving
The holidays have come and gone, but don’t let that stop you from giving to your favorite charities. They are always in need of generous donations and contributions to support their mission and cause, which is why it’s...
Read MoreSee A Sample Financial Plan
With a world of information at our fingertips, we can find reviews, history, product specifications, and more details than we’ll ever need about anything we want to buy. In other words, before making a major purchase, we can arm...
Read MoreLife Changes
While walking my dog this morning, I reflected on the previous day’s conversation with my 82-year-old mom.One of her dearest friends of 75 years (there is a group of 4 that have known each other since the age of seven) just lost...
Read MoreThe Best Of Winter Park
We are honored to be nominated for the best financial planning firm in Winter Park. https://winterpark.org/best-of-winter-park-voting-page
Read MoreMedicare: What’s in your wallet?
It’s that time of year again to take a look at your Medicare coverage or the Medicare coverage for a loved one. The Annual Election Period starts on October 15th and ends on December 7th. This is the time when you can make a...
Read MoreWhat to do during periods of market volatility
Historically, investing in stocks has benefited investors with compounding growth over time, helping investors prepare for financial goals and outpace inflation. Unfortunately, investors are human and make mistakes at times, when...
Read MoreWhy Florida Is A Good Place To Live Financially
What’s coming between you and your savings goal? Is it housing costs or medical expenses? Maybe it’s the ever-escalating college tuition fees or the general cost of living increases we’ve been seeing? For many people,...
Read MoreClient Profile: How We’ve Helped Women In Transition
By Viki Hamilton and Suzanne Breitwieser-Stopa Regardless of how it happens, it can be shocking for any woman to experience the transition into becoming suddenly single. And for many women, divorce or widowhood presents many challenges...
Read MoreThe Scary Hike
I was with my family in beautiful Jackson Hole, Wyoming this summer with another family, where we had many great adventures. One adventure was taking the tram up to the top of the mountain. The tram is a huge gondola with a capacity of...
Read MoreHow To Prepare For Market Volatility
By David Allen & Frank Lovaglio It might be hard to believe that a market downturn is coming, what with the markets having the best first half of a year since 1997 (1) and the Dow having the best June since 1938. (2) But as we know,...
Read MoreMEDICARE AND EMPLOYER COVERAGE
Turning 65 and still working? Should you take Medicare? If so, do you continue on your employer coverage? In most cases, the answer is yes. When you turn 65, you are entitled to Medicare Part A (Hospital coverage) if you have worked...
Read MoreSOCIAL SECURITY AND MEDICARE: HAND AND HAND
Common mistakes many people make as they enter and prepare for retirement are their decisions regarding Social Security benefits and Medicare benefits. Many make these decisions without understanding how they work together. Taking your...
Read MoreMedicare....Navigating the Maze
For many of our clients, the topic of Medicare can be a confusing one. When do I take it? What are my options? How does it affect my spouse and/or my company benefits? At SFM, we believe it is our responsibility to educate our clients...
Read MoreDiversification Means Being Uncomfortable!
Happy New Year! The following is an excerpt of a letter written by Larry Swedroe of Buckingham Asset Management Please contact your SFM advisor with any questions. Adam Butler of ReSolve Asset Management once offered the following...
Read MoreThe Tao of Wealth Management
The path to success in many areas of life is paved with continual hard work, intense activity, and a day-to-day focus on results. However, for many investors who adopt this approach to managing their wealth that can be turned upside...
Read MoreYour Financial Plan and the Current Economy
As financial planners, it is our job to establish financial plans with long term and short term goals for our clients. The plan is only the beginning and it is also our job to evaluate the overall plan on a consistent basis to assure...
Read MoreHow Much Life Insurance Is Enough?
Last week’s schedule happened to involve more travel than usual. In the span of five days I found myself in Omaha (at home), Des Moines, New York, Chicago, and Denver. On each of those days I followed my usual routine of waking...
Read MoreRisk, Not Volatility, Is the Real Enemy
What would you do if your investments lost 10% in a single day? A) Add more money to my account. B) Hold steady with what I've got. C) Yank my money; I wouldn't be able to stand any more losses. If investors buy the right investments...
Read MoreTax Cuts and Jobs Act Update
Consult your tax advisor to see if you should address strategies by year end. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act legislation was signed into law on December 22, 2017. The Act makes extensive changes that affect both individuals and businesses....
Read MoreCall-In for Free Advice Feb. 3rd
GOT QUESTIONS? WE'VE GOT ANSWERS.Financial - Investment – Tax – Legal Call (407) 740-6553 or Request a Call Financial Advisors, Accountants & Lawyers standing by to take your calls!! Take advantage of our FREE call-in event...
Read More“Tis’ the Season to RMD’n. FA-la-la-la-la….”
Are you feeling charitable? Do you own a Traditional IRA? Are you over the age of 70 ½? What if I told you that you could transfer up to $100,000 yearly from your Traditional IRA directly to charity and not pay any tax on that...
Read MoreDisaster Tax Relief, Airport, and Airway Extension Act of 2017 (HR 3823)
Congress Approves Bill and President Trump Signs Bill the Day After The White House explained that the above act will “provide targeted tax relief for taxpayers impacted by Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, and Maria. In addition to...
Read MoreSFM Proudly Sponsors the American Heart Walk
Security Financial Management is glad to sponsor the 2017 Heart Walk, the American Heart Association's premiere event in Orlando that raises funds and celebrates progress in the fight against this country's No. 1 and No. 5 killers -...
Read MoreLIVE WEBINAR: "The Talk" - Communicating with Your Adult Children About Your Retirement Plans
REGISTER HERE!!! Date: Thursday, October 12 at 12:00 p.m. ET Host: Mike Allen, Financial Advisor, Security Financial Management Description: Have you had "the talk" with your adult children? We'll provide pointers for talking with your...
Read MoreClients Award SFM Staff Member for Perseverance
These clients presented this special award to Rita for helping them through a very difficult time with another company.
Read MoreEver Wondered What Your Book of Business is Worth?
After years of accumulating sweat equity, advisors eventually come to the question, "what is my business worth?" SFM Advisor Group is glad to provide a fair practice valuation for Florida financial advisors who may be nearing...
Read MoreThe SFM Contingency Planning Solution
As financial professionals, we have accepted the responsibility of caring for our clients’ financial wellbeing and have agreed to the highest standard of care and concern in helping them achieve their long-term goals. But while...
Read MoreHow Independent Advisors Can Enjoy the Best of Both Worlds
Many advisors go from wirehouse to independent practice with few resources in place – it’s a plunge into the great unknown in which experience and intuitiveness can only help keep advisors afloat. Many still find that even...
Read MoreStudy: Transfer of Clients Among Biggest Succession Worries for Advisors
It’s common sense that firms without a succession plan risk the loss of both clients and referrals. As advisors get older, smart investors naturally begin to wonder about whether their advisor has a succession plan in place....
Read MoreWhat is Your Risk Number?
We’re always looking to leverage new technology to do our jobs better. Recently, we’ve come across an interactive tool that allows us to do just that. It’s called Riskalyze. This unique tool’s patented Risk...
Read MoreGreat Expectations: Helping You Know What to Expect
Why is it that we get frustrated over spending five minutes in the fast-food drive-thru as opposed to the typical 90 seconds. Are we that much in a hurry? Anyone not from the United States might easily become bewildered by our behavior...
Read MoreGo Pro with a SmartVestor Pro
The popularity of Dave Ramsey’s no-nonsense approach to money management has spurred an ever-growing movement of investors who want to approach their finances the way Dave would approach them. As a Dave Ramsey SmartVestor Pro, we...
Read MoreLeverage Your Resources with the Resource Center
It’s well known that knowledge is power. It never fails to amaze me how a simple fact or tidbit of information can dramatically impact our ability to be effective, whether that effectiveness is manifested in our homes, careers,...
Read MoreFree Webinar: What You Need to Know About Medicare to Secure Your Financial Plan
If you're approaching retirement, it's likely you'll have questions about Medicare and the role it will play in allowing you to maintain your health as well as your standard of living. You won't want to miss our free webinar covering...
Read MoreAs Mediocre As Gold
The gold standard. Good as gold. The golden years… So many of our expressions of value and excellence derive from gold. We even use it to symbolize the lifelong commitment (ideally) of marriage. But when it comes to investing,...
Read More5 Challenges to Retirement Planning
Retirement planning always brings about challenges. As a result, you might be interested in a recent webinar I hosted for Lockheed Martin employees which examines 5 challenges that result when delving into the retirement planning...
Read MoreThe Benefits of an insurance policy review
You’ve heard the old saying; the only certainties in life are death and taxes. Well, that’s one way to get into the conversation about life insurance. We’ve often heard no one wants life insurance, but they do want...
Read MoreHindsight is Clearer Than Foresight
Predictions on November 7, 2016, the day before voters elected Donald Trump as our next president… “As the historic 2016 U.S. presidential election approaches, major Wall Street analysts agree that the S&P 500 will likely...
Read MoreThe Folly of Chasing Dividend Yield
Since the “great recession,” interest rates have been considered low by historical standards, and it’s not just a recent phenomenon. Real interest rates and inflation have been in decline since the 1980s. While this...
Read MoreTrip of a Lifetime- Eastern Fly Fishing
Fly fishing has been my lifelong passion, and I’ve tried for nearly four decades to inspire some modicum of that passion in my wife, Vicky. She’s fished with me over the years, but generally as a neutral observer. Even a...
Read MoreJoin Us for Our Free Webinar: 5 Challenges to Retirement Planning
January 26th at 6:00 p.m. ET https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/5623265683101127427 January 27th at 11:00 a.m. ET https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/8833676908486163715 Over the years, I have had the pleasure of guiding...
Read MoreRetirement Challenge #5: Have you formalized a dynamic financial plan?
Your life is unique, so your financial plan should be too. It should help you gain greater clarity around your goals and challenges and create a path for you to follow. There are 3 simple steps to creating a financial plan with many...
Read MoreRetirement Challenge #4: Have you properly planned for the cost of healthcare?
The rising cost of healthcare impacts everyone whether you’re current working and have a rich benefits program or you are retired and utilizing Medicare. Even still, planning for the cost of healthcare in retirement is often...
Read MoreRetirement Challenge #3: Have you estimated how long you are going to live?
This is a heavy and uncomfortable question that seems impossible to answer at first. While no one has a crystal ball that predicts the future, there are leading indicators that can help you come up with an estimate. Thanks to medical...
Read MoreChallenge #2: Do you know how you want to spend your time in retirement?
Do you know how you want to spend your time in retirement? What is your vision of how you will spend your time in retirement? Rather than taking a 50,000 foot view, get specific! Think of an average day and how the hours you used to...
Read MoreChallenge #1: Do you know exactly how much money you will need to live comfortably in retirement?
There are many rules of thumb to help determine your needs in retirement and if you haven’t calculated it out, the sooner you do, the better you can plan. Beyond a guesstimate that considers just your current savings, social...
Read MoreWhy I Think People Delay in Buying Life Insurance Yet Buy Puppies
Some People think the process is very cumbersome (and potty training a puppy is not?). The process of buying life insurance really is not as difficult as most people think. There is a process of what is called underwriting that helps...
Read MoreFlip a Coin and Learn About Your Portfolio
Even if you don’t consider yourself much of a gambler, you probably can answer this question correctly: Are you likely to lose more money placing one $100 bet or 50 $2 bets? If you answered the $100 bet you are right, but what...
Read MoreThe Estate Sale is Not just for the Departed!
As a financial planner, I guide my clients through many of life's transitions. I have more and more financial planning clients who are recent "Empty Nesters" and have no need for all the space in the home where they raised their...
Read MoreDo All-Time Highs Mean Overvalued Markets?
Stock Market Performance in the Periods Following All-Time Record Highs This is the second in a two-part blog of our Quarterly Investment Committee Briefing. On August 15, several of the major U.S. stock market indices reached all-time...
Read MoreThis is the first in a two-part blog of our Quarterly Investment Committee Briefing.
So far this year, one of the big stories in global markets was the surprise Brexit vote in the third week of June. Conventional wisdom was that this event was a harbinger of future economic weakness and lower markets. Markets fell a...
Read MoreThere is Always a Reason to Sell…Unless You Want to Achieve Your Goals
The problem with good advice is that it tends to be boring, especially when it comes to your portfolio. This is a good thing. For investors, excitement can be your worst enemy. Excitement generates headlines; it causes people to be...
Read MorePresidents and Your Portfolio
As we approach Election Day on November 8, there will be endless debate, prognostication and media hype. But even before a single vote has been cast, the potential results are already being priced into stocks around the world. While...
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