Summer’s here, and the time is right for vacations, outdoor activities, and fun. It’s also a good time to consider a few financial matters. Here are some questions to ask yourself mid-year. Goals still the same for 2026? Has market volatility affected your goals? Note any changes since the first of the year that may…
Read more
“May you live in interesting times.” It sounds like a blessing—but it’s often said to be a curse. Because “interesting” rarely means peaceful. And let’s be honest—we’re living in some very interesting times. Turn on the news or scroll your phone and you’ll see it everywhere: global conflict, rapid advances in artificial intelligence, political tension,…
Read more
You’ve poured years—maybe decades—into building your business. Early mornings, late nights, tough decisions, and real sacrifice. For most owners, it’s more than a company—it’s their life’s work. But here’s the hard truth: while business owners are experts at building, many never plan how they’ll eventually step away. The numbers tell a concerning story. Fewer than…
Read more
It’s a simple question—but for most people, it’s surprisingly hard to answer with confidence. The reality is this: assets are not automatically protected. Without intentional planning, what you’ve worked so hard to build could be exposed to unnecessary risk. The good news? Many of the most common gaps are fixable—once you know where to look.…
Read more
A while back, Money Magazine asked several successful people a simple question: What’s the smartest financial advice you’ve ever received? One response stood out. Richard Branson, billionaire founder of the Virgin Group, admitted that early in his career he simply didn’t know much about finance—and the best thing he learned was to stay humble about…
Read more
If you’ve felt the squeeze lately, you’re not alone. Just a few years ago, most Americans felt pretty confident. Wages were strong. Money was flowing through the economy. Prices felt manageable. Bank accounts looked healthier than they had in a long time. Fast forward to today, and that season feels like a distant memory. Inflation…
Read more
Ever notice how Presidents Day sales are suspiciously good? There’s a reason. January is when everyone buys exercise equipment for their New Year’s resolutions… and February is when a lot of it gets returned. Sound familiar? In one way or another, we’ve all been there. Big goals. Fresh motivation. Strong start. And then—life. I don’t…
Read more
Fame and fortune don’t protect anyone from poor planning. When it comes to death and taxes, celebrities face the same rules the rest of us do—just on a much bigger, more public stage. Here are ten estate planning lessons straight from the headlines: #10 – No Will, No Control Both Aretha Franklin and Prince died…
Read more
Today, nearly 63 million Americans — about one in four adults — serve as caregivers, and most provide that care unpaid. Many find themselves balancing the needs of their children while caring for aging parents, creating what is often called the “Sandwich Generation.” We call it the Responsibility Club — and membership can be overwhelming.…
Read more
A fellow advisor once shared a story that has always stuck with me. He tried to help his grandmother with her financial and life planning, but she refused. “She insisted that John—her advisor and friend for decades—was doing just fine,” he said. “Besides, she couldn’t imagine taking business away from someone she trusted for so…
Read more
Securities offered through Calton & Associates, Inc. member FINRA and SIPC, a Registered Investment Adviser. SEC registration does not imply a certain level of skill or ability. Investment advisory services offered through Smart Money Group, LLC, a Registered Investment Adviser. Smart Money Group, LLC and Kennedy Financial Services, Inc. are not owned or controlled by Calton & Associates, Inc.