Go Ahead, Buy the Harley

New research in the Journal of Personal Finance shows why retirees can spend 20% more in early retirement than the 4% rule allows. In our latest research roundup, we also highlight research on aging, the demographic aspects of investment mistakes and Social Security claiming.

Takeaways from the FPA Conference in Boston

At the Financial Planning Association's Business and Education Conference in Boston last weekend, Bill Reichenstein talked about tax-efficient withdrawal strategies, Steve Deschenes made a case for income-oriented American Funds, and David Blanchett explained that retirement might cost less than expected.

Will the ‘BIC’ Affect QLAC Sales?

We're talking about the DOL's proposed Best Interest Contract exemption and sales of Qualified Longevity Annuity Contracts. "Most firms will just pass on this uncertainty and risk," said Caleb Callahan, chief operating officer of ValMark Securities.

How to Personalize Withdrawal Rates

Safe spending rates range from 2% to 10%, writes researcher Luke Delorme in the Journal of Financial Planning. It all depends on when people retire, how much guaranteed income they have, whether they want to leave a legacy, etc. One size never fits all.
Featured

The Bezzle Years

John Kay, a visiting professor of economics at the London School of Economics, describes the happy feeling that precedes our realization that we've bought a pig in a poke.
News

Will the ‘BIC’ Affect QLAC Sales?

We're talking about the DOL's proposed Best Interest Contract exemption and sales of Qualified Longevity Annuity Contracts. "Most firms will just pass on this uncertainty and risk," said Caleb Callahan, chief operating officer of ValMark Securities.

Industry-sponsored legal study attacks ‘robo-advisors’

A recent paper by D.C. attorney Melanie Fein argues that “Robo-advisors do not provide personal investment advice, do not meet a high standard of care for fiduciary investing, and do not act in the client’s best interest."