Rigden Capital Strategies

Insights

Research and perspective from the Rigden team.

Independent analysis on markets, retirement, tax, and real estate — written by fiduciaries, for clients who want to think clearly about wealth.

Subscribe


Search Articles & Insights

Featured

May 2026

May 2026

As we cross the threshold into the middle of 2026, the financial landscape continues to present a fascinating, interconnected puzzle. Managing capital in a dynamic economy requires us to look past the day-to-day noise of cable news and social media, and instead focus deeply on structural economic realities. The core mission of Rigden Capital has always been rooted in clarity, consistency, and alignment. We understand that behind every portfolio balance is a real-world goal: a secure retirement,

May 18, 2026
Read article

Latest articles

What Are Trump Accounts for Kids? Updated Rules, Eligibility, and What Families Should Know in 2026

What Are Trump Accounts for Kids? Updated Rules, Eligibility, and What Families Should Know in 2026

In an effort to help families build long-term financial security for children, Congress introduced a new type of savings vehicle through the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA): Trump Accounts.

Joshua Rigden
May 15, 2026
The Three Camps in the RIA Landscape... And Why the Best Advisors Don’t Fit in Just One

The Three Camps in the RIA Landscape... And Why the Best Advisors Don’t Fit in Just One

When people begin searching for a financial advisor, they often assume all firms operate the same way. In reality, the Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) landscape tends to fall into three distinct “camps.” Each brings value, but each also has limitations that can impact the quality of advice clien

Christian West
May 11, 2026
The 4 Risks That Never Retire: Part 4. Emotion

The 4 Risks That Never Retire: Part 4. Emotion

Part 4: Emotion — The Behavioral Side of Financial Decisions While markets and economic factors play a role in retirement outcomes, investor behavior can also be an important influence. Emotional responses to uncertainty, market movements, and financial stress may affect decision-making. Common Beha

Christian West
May 8, 2026
National Investing Day: A Reminder of Why We Invest in the First Place

National Investing Day: A Reminder of Why We Invest in the First Place

On May 1st, we recognize National Investing Day! A newer observance founded by Charles Schwab to promote financial education, long-term investing, and greater access to the markets. The date isn’t random. It traces back to May 1, 1975 often called “May Day” on Wall Street, when commission rates were

Christian West
May 1, 2026
The 4 Risks That Never Retire: Part 3. Volatility

The 4 Risks That Never Retire: Part 3. Volatility

Part 3: Volatility — Navigating Market Fluctuations Market volatility refers to the natural fluctuations in the value of investments over time. While it is a normal part of investing, it can present challenges - particularly during retirement. Understanding Volatility Financial markets do not move i

Christian West
Apr 27, 2026
The 4 Risks That Never Retire: Part 2. Inflation

The 4 Risks That Never Retire: Part 2. Inflation

Part 2: Inflation — The Gradual Impact on Purchasing Power Inflation represents the general increase in prices over time. While it may not always feel immediate, its long-term effects can meaningfully impact retirement planning. How Inflation Affects Retirement Over time, even moderate inflation may

Christian West
Apr 20, 2026
The 4 Risks That Never Retire: Part 1. Longevity

The 4 Risks That Never Retire: Part 1. Longevity

Part 1: Longevity — The Risk of Living Longer Than Expected For much of history, the primary concern was not living long enough. Today, many retirees face the opposite challenge: living longer than their financial resources were originally designed to support. This is commonly referred to as longevi

Christian West
Apr 13, 2026
World Backup Day: Your Financial Plan Needs One Too

World Backup Day: Your Financial Plan Needs One Too

Every year on March 31st, World Backup Day serves as a simple but powerful reminder: protect your digital life. Photos, documents, passwords—everything that would be painful to lose. Most of us understand this instinctively. We’ve either experienced data loss ourselves or know someone who has. And o

Christian West
Apr 3, 2026
Quarterly Update: Q1 2026

Quarterly Update: Q1 2026

The first three months of 2026 delivered a sudden and sobering wake-up call to global financial markets. High optimism for artificial intelligence and imminent interest rate cuts quickly collided with reality. Geopolitical tensions spiked energy prices, the AI boom faced physical infrastructure limi

Joshua Rigden
Apr 2, 2026
Estate Planning in 2026: A Practical Framework For Legacy Planning

Estate Planning in 2026: A Practical Framework For Legacy Planning

Estate planning often extends beyond basic documents such as wills. With recent legislative changes—including provisions commonly referenced as part of the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA)”—federal estate tax exemptions are currently elevated (subject to future legislative change). As a result, m

Joshua Rigden
Mar 30, 2026
351 ETF Exchange & Its Benefits

351 ETF Exchange & Its Benefits

The Section 351 ETF Exchange (often called an "ETF Conversion" or "Seeding") is a sophisticated tax strategy that allows investors to move large, appreciated stock positions into a diversified ETF without triggering immediate capital gains taxes. While it has been a staple for institutional investor

Joshua Rigden
Mar 24, 2026
What’s Actually Inside Your S&P 500 Fund?

What’s Actually Inside Your S&P 500 Fund?

The Hidden Concentration Inside the S&P 500 If you’ve invested in an S&P 500 index fund, it can feel like you own a small piece of the entire American economy. Technology companies, banks, consumer brands, industrial firms, and energy companies are all represented in a single index. For many investo

Joshua Rigden
Mar 13, 2026
Market Update: March 2026

Market Update: March 2026

Geopolitical Escalation and Capital Markets From a historical perspective, geopolitical shocks have often created short-term volatility but have not always resulted in lasting structural damage to capital markets. Initial reactions in risk assets can be sharp, but those moves frequently moderate as

Joshua Rigden
Mar 3, 2026
Social Security and Women: What Every Retirement Plan Should Consider

Social Security and Women: What Every Retirement Plan Should Consider

When it comes to retirement security, few programs are as important as Social Security benefits. And for women in particular, Social Security plays an outsized role in retirement income. According to data from the Social Security Administration, women make up the majority of Social Security benefici

RCS Advisors
Feb 18, 2026
A Quick Guide to Equity Compensation Types

A Quick Guide to Equity Compensation Types

What Type of Equity Do I Have and What Does It Actually Mean? Equity compensation is one of the most powerful and most misunderstood components of executive compensation. Stock options, restricted stock, and employee purchase plans can meaningfully enhance long-term wealth, but only if they are unde

RCS Advisors
Feb 11, 2026
2025 Tax Changes You Need to Know Before Filing in 2026

2025 Tax Changes You Need to Know Before Filing in 2026

Tax law doesn’t change often but when it does, the ripple effects can meaningfully impact how much you owe, how much paperwork you need, and which planning strategies actually matter. For your 2025 tax return (filed in early 2026), several notable updates are now in play following the passage of the

Joshua Rigden
Feb 5, 2026
From DIY Investing to Strategic Design: Why Investors Choose a Professional “Fit”

From DIY Investing to Strategic Design: Why Investors Choose a Professional “Fit”

For years, you’ve handled it all. You’ve researched the funds, tracked the indices, balanced the spreadsheets, and managed the tax transitions. There is a certain pride in being a "DIY investor"—it requires discipline, intelligence, and a high level of control. But as wealth grows, so does comple

RCS Advisors
Feb 3, 2026
Strategy Matters: How Stress Testing Can Improve Financial Planning Decisions

Strategy Matters: How Stress Testing Can Improve Financial Planning Decisions

Financial planning is often mistaken for a “set it and forget it” task. In reality, effective planning is an ongoing process that evolves as markets, tax laws, and personal goals change. At Rigden Capital Strategies, our approach emphasizes proactive review and thoughtful evaluation of planning stra

RCS Advisors
Jan 27, 2026
How Parents’ Real Estate Holdings Affect FAFSA and College Financial Aid Eligibility

How Parents’ Real Estate Holdings Affect FAFSA and College Financial Aid Eligibility

For families preparing for college, understanding how assets are evaluated for financial aid purposes is an important part of the planning process. One area that often raises questions is how real estate ownership—particularly rental or investment property—is treated when completing the Free Applica

RCS Advisors
Jan 22, 2026
Quarterly Update: Q4 2025 (Ending 2025 Strong)

Quarterly Update: Q4 2025 (Ending 2025 Strong)

As we close the book on 2025, the stock market gave investors a solid, if not euphoric, finish. The final three months of the year were characterized by steady gains rather than an explosive rally, pushing the total returns for 2025 to respectable double-digit levels. The S&P 500 (a good measure of

Joshua Rigden
Jan 2, 2026
Caregiving Is a Financial Event: Whether You Plan for It or Not

Caregiving Is a Financial Event: Whether You Plan for It or Not

Caregiving is no longer a rare or short-term responsibility. Millions of Americans are balancing full-time careers while caring for children, aging parents, or other dependent family members. For many, this happens simultaneously—placing them squarely in the sandwich generation. Yet caregiving is st

Christian West
Jan 2, 2026
Market Update: Ending 2025 Strong

Market Update: Ending 2025 Strong

As we close the books on 2025, investors find themselves standing before a familiar "Wall of Worry." Headlines are filled with anxieties ranging from government debt levels and political changes to lingering fears about inflation. It is natural to feel cautious in this environment. However, experien

Joshua Rigden
Dec 30, 2025
“Why We Built Rigden Capital Strategies”

“Why We Built Rigden Capital Strategies”

We built Rigden Capital Strategies because we were frustrated with what investment management had become. Too often, we saw clients placed into generic portfolios, sold products they didn’t fully understand, and charged fees that weren’t clearly explained. Advice felt transactional, more about speed

Joshua Rigden
Dec 16, 2025
What You Need to Know About Roth-Required 401(k) Catch-Up Contributions Starting in 2026

What You Need to Know About Roth-Required 401(k) Catch-Up Contributions Starting in 2026

Retirement savers age 50 and older have long relied on catch-up contributions to boost savings as they approach retirement. These additional contributions provide a meaningful opportunity to save more—especially for high earners in their peak earning years. The One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) int

Christian West
Dec 5, 2025
Your Medicare IRMAA Guide For Retirement and More

Your Medicare IRMAA Guide For Retirement and More

Retirement is supposed to be the time you stop worrying about income, but for many higher earners, Medicare throws a curveball: IRMAA.

Joshua Rigden
Dec 3, 2025
Charitable Planning to Wrap Up 2025: Strategies to Maximize Your Impact and Your Tax Benefits

Charitable Planning to Wrap Up 2025: Strategies to Maximize Your Impact and Your Tax Benefits

As 2025 comes to a close, many families, retirees, and business owners are taking a fresh look at their charitable goals. This year is particularly important because the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) introduces meaningful tax changes starting in 2026. These changes affect how charitable deducti

Christian West
Dec 1, 2025
The Stealth Wealth Vehicle: Why We Love The HSA (Under Three Strict Conditions)

The Stealth Wealth Vehicle: Why We Love The HSA (Under Three Strict Conditions)

In the world of financial planning, we often obsess over asset allocation, tax-loss harvesting, and Roth conversions. However, one of the most potent vehicles for wealth accumulation is frequently disguised as a boring insurance decision: The High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP) paired with a Health S

Joshua Rigden
Nov 21, 2025
Market Update: No, This Isn't a Bubble Bursting—It's Just a Quick Reality Check

Market Update: No, This Isn't a Bubble Bursting—It's Just a Quick Reality Check

Lately, many investors have been concerned about tech stocks dropping and talk of a big "bubble" ready to pop. But let's take a moment to breathe—it's not as bad as it seems. What we're seeing is just a normal pause where people rethink their excitement. Stocks have been strongly climbing, and these

Joshua Rigden
Nov 19, 2025
The 4% Rule Revisited: Determining a Sustainable Withdrawal Rate

The 4% Rule Revisited: Determining a Sustainable Withdrawal Rate

For decades, the "4% rule" has served as a widely cited guideline for retirees. This concept, developed by financial planner William Bengen in the early 1990s, suggested that an investor could successfully sustain a 30-year retirement by initially withdrawing 4% of their total invested portfolio and

Christian West
Nov 17, 2025
2026 IRS LIMITS: RETIREMENT ACCOUNTS, HSA, AND FSA LIMITS.

2026 IRS LIMITS: RETIREMENT ACCOUNTS, HSA, AND FSA LIMITS.

tax planning

Joshua Rigden
Nov 17, 2025
A Parent’s Guide to Paying for College: Coordinating Savings, Scholarships, and Student Loans

A Parent’s Guide to Paying for College: Coordinating Savings, Scholarships, and Student Loans

For many families, the cost of college is one of the biggest financial milestones they will plan for. Parents often want to help, whether by saving, offering guidance, or supporting their student’s decisions—but the process can feel overwhelming. The good news: with thoughtful coordination of saving

RCS Advisors
Nov 14, 2025
Year-End Financial Planning Checklist: Setting the Stage for 2026

Year-End Financial Planning Checklist: Setting the Stage for 2026

As the year draws to a close, it’s the perfect time to pause, reflect, and take proactive steps to align your financial life with your goals. A structured year-end review ensures you’re maximizing opportunities for tax efficiency, fine-tuning your investments, and entering the new year with confiden

Christian West
Nov 12, 2025
How to Qualify for Real Estate Professional (RE Pro) Tax Status

How to Qualify for Real Estate Professional (RE Pro) Tax Status

For many real estate investors, one of the most valuable tax planning opportunities is qualifying for Real Estate Professional (RE Pro) status with the IRS. Achieving this designation can change how your rental activity is treated for tax purposes, potentially allowing you to deduct real estate loss

Christian West
Nov 7, 2025
Paying for Graduate School: The Ultimate Guide

Paying for Graduate School: The Ultimate Guide

Graduate school is becoming an increasingly common step for students and professionals looking to advance their careers. Yet, the financial reality is changing—and fast. With the elimination of Grad PLUS loans beginning July 1, 2026, and new federal borrowing limits under the One Big Beautiful Bill

RCS Advisors
Nov 5, 2025
How Credit Cards Influence Your Credit Score — and Smart Ways to Improve It

How Credit Cards Influence Your Credit Score — and Smart Ways to Improve It

How Credit Cards Impact Your Credit Score Credit cards can be valuable financial tools when used wisely. They offer flexibility, rewards, and can help establish or strengthen your credit history. But how you manage your credit cards directly influences your credit score — for better or worse. Unders

Christian West
Nov 3, 2025
Market Update: Fed's Latest Moves and What They Mean for Your Portfolio

Market Update: Fed's Latest Moves and What They Mean for Your Portfolio

As anticipated following its most recent policy meeting, the Federal Reserve announced a 25 basis point reduction in its benchmark interest rate today. This marks the second consecutive monthly cut, bringing the federal funds rate target range to 3.75%–4.00%. In a complementary move, the Fed also si

Joshua Rigden
Oct 30, 2025
Social Security Benefits Are Increasing in 2026 — Here’s What That Means for Your Retirement Plan

Social Security Benefits Are Increasing in 2026 — Here’s What That Means for Your Retirement Plan

Each fall, the Social Security Administration (SSA) announces the annual Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA), which determines how much benefits will increase to help keep up with inflation. For 2026, Social Security benefits are set to increase by approximately 2.8%. While this adjustment is automatic

Christian West
Oct 25, 2025
Rolling Over 529 Funds to a Roth IRA

Rolling Over 529 Funds to a Roth IRA

The SECURE Act 2.0, signed into law in late 2022, introduced several updates to retirement and education savings. One provision that has generated particular interest is the ability to roll over certain unused 529 plan funds into a Roth IRA. This rule, effective in 2024, provides families with more

RCS Advisors
Oct 24, 2025
Why Every Financial Plan Needs an Emergency Reserve

Why Every Financial Plan Needs an Emergency Reserve

How Liquid Cash Protects Your Long-Term Strategy A sound financial plan isn’t just about growth — it’s also about resilience. Market fluctuations, medical expenses, or household repairs can occur without warning. That’s why maintaining an emergency reserve is a critical part of any financial strateg

Christian West
Oct 22, 2025
Small Business Loans - A Starting Guide

Small Business Loans - A Starting Guide

Acquiring an existing business is one of the most common reasons entrepreneurs seek small business financing—especially in Colorado, where the economy supports diverse industries like retail, services, and technology. Whether you’re buying into a proven operation or taking over a growing company, un

Joshua Rigden
Oct 20, 2025
Market Update: October 2025

Market Update: October 2025

Key Takeaway: Investor sentiment is bullish but not euphoric, with recent market discussions centered on valuations and potential risks in AI-related financing. While some cautionary signals are emerging, markets reflect optimism for growth, though a short-term pullback may be healthy after a signif

Joshua Rigden
Oct 15, 2025
Paying Your College Bill Is Different for 2025–26

Paying Your College Bill Is Different for 2025–26

As families begin receiving their 2025–26 college tuition bills, the strategies for covering costs may look very different from prior years. The One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) introduced new loan limits for students and parents, creating both challenges and opportunities for planning ahead. With

RCS Advisors
Oct 10, 2025
Navigating Market Resilience: Unpacking the Rally, Labor Signals, and Fed Easing in a Shifting Landscape

Navigating Market Resilience: Unpacking the Rally, Labor Signals, and Fed Easing in a Shifting Landscape

In the volatile world of financial markets, few periods capture the tension between exuberance and caution quite like the summer of 2025. August delivered yet another robust performance for risk assets, with small- and mid-cap stocks, alongside value-oriented plays, stealing the spotlight. Even bond

Joshua Rigden
Oct 9, 2025
Market Update: Navigating Megatrends: Four Forces Shaping Investor Returns in 2025 and Beyond

Market Update: Navigating Megatrends: Four Forces Shaping Investor Returns in 2025 and Beyond

As we navigate the complexities of 2025, investors face a landscape defined not just by cyclical economic swings but by profound structural shifts. Four megatrends—artificial intelligence (AI), infrastructure buildout, demographic changes, and deglobalization—stand out as transformative forces with

Joshua Rigden
Oct 9, 2025
World Financial Planning Day: A Reminder to Get Financially Fit

World Financial Planning Day: A Reminder to Get Financially Fit

October 8th is World Financial Planning Day — a global reminder of the value of taking time to review your financial goals and strategy. Whether you’re just getting started or refining a well-established plan, it’s a great opportunity to pause and ask: Is my financial plan still aligned with the lif

Christian West
Oct 9, 2025
Exit Strategies for Real Estate Investors

Exit Strategies for Real Estate Investors

Real estate investors often put tremendous energy into finding and financing the right property. Yet many underestimate the importance of the exit strategy. How you leave an investment can be just as impactful as how you enter it. Done thoughtfully, the exit can provide liquidity, unlock higher valu

Christian West
Oct 8, 2025
New IRS Reporting for Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs): What You Need to Know for 2025

New IRS Reporting for Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs): What You Need to Know for 2025

For retirees who give charitably, Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) are one of the most tax-efficient ways to support a cause. Starting in 2025, the IRS is making an important update that simplifies how these charitable IRA distributions are reported—reducing confusion and potential tax erro

Christian West
Oct 7, 2025
Should You Buy or Lease Your Next Car?

Should You Buy or Lease Your Next Car?

When it comes to getting behind the wheel of a new vehicle, the decision often comes down to one important question: Should you buy or lease? The right choice depends on your lifestyle, financial goals, and driving habits. Both options have clear advantages and trade-offs—understanding them can help

Christian West
Oct 6, 2025
Accessing Retirement Funds Before 59½: Understanding SEPP Rule 72(t)

Accessing Retirement Funds Before 59½: Understanding SEPP Rule 72(t)

Most retirement savers know that withdrawing from an IRA or 401(k) before age 59½ generally triggers a 10% early withdrawal penalty, in addition to income taxes. In limited cases, however, the IRS allows early access without penalty. One such option is the Substantially Equal Periodic Payments (SEPP

Christian West
Oct 3, 2025
Q3 2025 Market Commentary: Resilience Amid Uncertainty – A Tech-Fueled Rally Charges Forward

Q3 2025 Market Commentary: Resilience Amid Uncertainty – A Tech-Fueled Rally Charges Forward

As the third quarter of 2025 drew to a close on September 30, the U.S. stock market capped off another period of robust gains, defying seasonal headwinds and broader economic crosscurrents. The S&P 500 advanced 7.8% for the quarter, marking its strongest September performance in over 15 years and ex

Joshua Rigden
Oct 1, 2025
Pursue Your Financial Goals with Fee-Only Financial Advice and Wealth Management

Pursue Your Financial Goals with Fee-Only Financial Advice and Wealth Management

When it comes to securing your financial future, clarity and trust are non-negotiable. That’s why fee-only financial advice—paired with comprehensive wealth management—offers a powerful framework for long-term success.

RCS Advisors
Oct 1, 2025
Rental Property Taxes: Cash Flow vs. Taxable Net Income

Rental Property Taxes: Cash Flow vs. Taxable Net Income

Understanding rental property taxes means knowing the difference between cash flow and taxable income. Learn how depreciation, mortgage interest, and principal payments impact your bottom line, and why IRS rules can make taxable income much lower than actual cash flow.

Christian West
Sep 29, 2025
Estate Tax Exemption in 2025 and Beyond: What the OBBBA Means for Families

Estate Tax Exemption in 2025 and Beyond: What the OBBBA Means for Families

When it comes to wealth transfer and estate planning, few numbers are as closely watched as the federal estate tax exemption. This figure determines how much wealth can pass free of federal estate tax at death (or through lifetime gifts). With the passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) in

Christian West
Sep 26, 2025
Real Estate Investing: Fiduciary Strategies for Long-Term Wealth

Real Estate Investing: Fiduciary Strategies for Long-Term Wealth

Investing in real estate can be a valuable way to pursue long-term wealth building, depending on individual goals and circumstances. But...

RCS Advisors
Sep 24, 2025
Choosing the Correct Tax Filing Status

Choosing the Correct Tax Filing Status

When it comes to preparing your tax return, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is selecting the right filing status. Your filing status determines your standard deduction, eligibility for certain credits and deductions, and ultimately how much tax you owe—or how much of a refund you may

Christian West
Sep 22, 2025
Understanding Social Security’s 2025 COLA Adjustment

Understanding Social Security’s 2025 COLA Adjustment

Each year, Social Security benefits are adjusted to help retirees, survivors, and individuals with disabilities keep pace with rising costs. These adjustments—known as Cost-of-Living Adjustments (COLAs)—are tied to the Consumer Price Index (CPI), which tracks inflation. What Is COLA? Since 1975, Soc

Christian West
Sep 18, 2025
Social Security Tax Changes: Separating Fact from Fiction

Social Security Tax Changes: Separating Fact from Fiction

When Congress passed the 2025 “One Big Beautiful Bill” (OBBB), the headlines came fast and loud. Some news outlets and even a Social Security Administration (SSA) email suggested that the new law would eliminate federal income taxes on Social Security benefits. That claim spread quickly—but it isn’t

Christian West
Sep 15, 2025
What to Expect as a New Client at Rigden Capital Strategies

What to Expect as a New Client at Rigden Capital Strategies

Starting a new financial advisory relationship is an important step, and at Rigden Capital Strategies, we want every client to feel confident, comfortable, and supported from day one. Our onboarding process is designed to be clear, collaborative, and focused on building a strong foundation for your

Christian West
Sep 9, 2025
Labor Market Cooling: What Investors Need to Know

Labor Market Cooling: What Investors Need to Know

As an investment advisory firm, we are always keeping a close eye on economic indicators that can impact your portfolio. The latest labor market data, hot off the press from August 2025, paints a sobering picture that demands our attention. Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell’s recent focus on the l

Joshua Rigden
Sep 8, 2025
Why Physical Real Estate May Not Belong in Your IRA

Why Physical Real Estate May Not Belong in Your IRA

For many investors, real estate is a cornerstone of building wealth. It provides potential appreciation, steady rental income, and diversification outside of traditional stock and bond markets. But when it comes to retirement accounts like IRAs, directly owning physical real estate often creates mor

Christian West
Sep 8, 2025
Diversification of Personal Wealth Beyond the Business: A Strategic Imperative for Entrepreneurs

Diversification of Personal Wealth Beyond the Business: A Strategic Imperative for Entrepreneurs

Preserve Your Legacy and Protect Your Wealth: Strategic Diversification Beyond the Business for Long-Term Financial Confidence.

RCS Advisors
Sep 3, 2025
How Often Should You Review Your Insurance Policies?

How Often Should You Review Your Insurance Policies?

Insurance plays a central role in protecting your financial well-being. While investments and savings help you grow wealth, insurance safeguards it from unexpected events. But how often should you review your policies? Which types of insurance are essential—and which might be unnecessary? How Often

Christian West
Sep 2, 2025
Do Retirees Need to Make Estimated Tax Payments?

Do Retirees Need to Make Estimated Tax Payments?

Understanding Estimated Taxes Estimated tax payments are the IRS’s way of ensuring taxes are collected as income is earned. This approach prevents taxpayers from waiting until they file their annual return. While employees typically have income tax withheld from their paychecks, retirees often recei

Christian West
Aug 29, 2025
What Are Trump Accounts for Kids?

What Are Trump Accounts for Kids?

In early 2025, the “One Big Beautiful Bill” (OBBB) introduced a brand-new program designed to give children a financial head start: Trump Accounts for Kids. While the name comes from President Donald Trump, the legislation was ultimately championed by Senator Ted Cruz (R–Texas) and gained bipartisan

Joshua Rigden
Aug 28, 2025
Creating a Financial Safety Net for Business Owners: A Strategic Approach to Long-Term Stability

Creating a Financial Safety Net for Business Owners: A Strategic Approach to Long-Term Stability

Protect Your Business and Personal Wealth with a Customized Financial Safety Net Designed for Long-Term Resilience and Strategic Growth.

RCS Advisors
Aug 27, 2025
Market Update: Powell’s Jackson Hole Speech Signals Rate Cuts and Economic Vigilance

Market Update: Powell’s Jackson Hole Speech Signals Rate Cuts and Economic Vigilance

We are writing to provide you with a comprehensive update following Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell’s recent address at the Jackson Hole symposium. This annual event is a critical moment for gauging the Fed’s perspective on the economy, and this year’s speech was particularly significant given r

Joshua Rigden
Aug 26, 2025
Parent-Owned 529s vs. Grandparent-Owned 529s: What Families Should Know

Parent-Owned 529s vs. Grandparent-Owned 529s: What Families Should Know

Saving for a child’s education is one of the most impactful financial gifts a family can give. A 529 college savings plan is often the go-to tool, thanks to tax-deferred growth and tax-free withdrawals for qualified education expenses. But one important decision can affect financial aid, taxes, and

RCS Advisors
Aug 25, 2025
Why Diversification Matters More Than You Think

Why Diversification Matters More Than You Think

According to academic research, most individual stocks underperform the market over their lifetimes, and many fail to outperform even conservative investments like Treasury bills.

Christian West
Aug 22, 2025
Building Retirement Wealth Outside the Business: A Strategic Guide for Entrepreneurs

Building Retirement Wealth Outside the Business: A Strategic Guide for Entrepreneurs

Secure Your Financial Future by Building Retirement Wealth Beyond Your Business with a Diversified, Tax-Efficient Strategy Tailored to Entrepreneurs.

RCS Advisors
Aug 20, 2025
Financial Aid vs. Loans: How to Minimize Borrowing for Your Child’s Education

Financial Aid vs. Loans: How to Minimize Borrowing for Your Child’s Education

Sending a child to college is one of the biggest investments many families make—and the choices you make now can impact their financial future for decades. By combining aid, smart school choices, and strategic use of savings, you can minimize how much borrowing is necessary.

RCS Advisors
Aug 15, 2025
Choosing the Right Business Entity for Tax Efficiency: A Strategic Guide for Business Owners

Choosing the Right Business Entity for Tax Efficiency: A Strategic Guide for Business Owners

Optimize Your Business Structure for Tax Efficiency with a Strategic Entity Selection Plan Tailored by Experienced Wealth Advisors.

RCS Advisors
Aug 13, 2025
How (and Why) to Check Your Social Security Statement at SSA.gov

How (and Why) to Check Your Social Security Statement at SSA.gov

It takes just a few minutes at SSA.gov to review your earnings record, confirm your benefit estimates, and catch any errors before they affect your retirement income.

Christian West
Aug 8, 2025
Setting Up Tax-Advantaged Retirement Plans: A Strategic Guide for Long-Term Wealth Preservation

Setting Up Tax-Advantaged Retirement Plans: A Strategic Guide for Long-Term Wealth Preservation

Maximize Retirement Wealth with a Customized, Tax-Advantaged Plan Designed for Long-Term Growth and Regulatory Confidence.

RCS Advisors
Aug 6, 2025
July 2025 Market Commentary

July 2025 Market Commentary

Overview July 2025 saw a dynamic U.S. market landscape shaped by mixed economic signals, corporate earnings, and Federal Reserve commentary. Investors navigated a complex environment with robust consumer spending, moderating inflation, and uncertainty around tariffs and monetary policy. The S&P 500

Joshua Rigden
Aug 5, 2025
Labor Market Update: August 2025

Labor Market Update: August 2025

Overview The July 2025 jobs report from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), released on August 1, has significantly altered the labor market outlook. Following June’s optimistic signals of stabilization, July’s data delivered a stark reversal, highlighting persistent cooling and heightened do

Joshua Rigden
Aug 5, 2025
Unlocking the Power of a Health Savings Account (HSA): Triple Tax Advantages and Long-Term Potential

Unlocking the Power of a Health Savings Account (HSA): Triple Tax Advantages and Long-Term Potential

For many individuals and families, managing healthcare costs can feel like navigating a maze, especially when planning for both current medical needs and future financial security. One tool that stands out for its flexibility and tax advantages is the Health Savings Account, or HSA. But what exactly

Christian West
Aug 1, 2025
Integrating Personal and Business Financial Plans: A Strategic Imperative for Business Owners

Integrating Personal and Business Financial Plans: A Strategic Imperative for Business Owners

Strategically Align Your Personal and Business Finances with a Comprehensive Wealth Management Plan Designed for Business Owners.

RCS Advisors
Jul 30, 2025
Sell or Rent? How to Decide What to Do with Your Primary Home or Condo

Sell or Rent? How to Decide What to Do with Your Primary Home or Condo

When it’s time to move on from your current home, whether due to a job relocation, upsizing for a growing family, or simply a lifestyle change, one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll face is what to do with your existing property: sell it or turn it into a rental? Both options come with benef

Christian West
Jul 25, 2025
Business Succession Planning: Securing Your Legacy and Future Growth

Business Succession Planning: Securing Your Legacy and Future Growth

Business succession planning ensures continuity, protects enterprise value, and minimizes tax exposure during leadership transitions.

RCS Advisors
Jul 23, 2025
Student Perspective: Will My Roth IRA Hurt My Financial Aid?

Student Perspective: Will My Roth IRA Hurt My Financial Aid?

If you’re a student with a custodial Roth IRA from summer jobs or side gigs, you’re already ahead financially. But when applying for college financial aid, you might be wondering: Could that Roth IRA hurt your eligibility? Here’s what you need to know before filling out the FAFSA or CSS Profile. FAF

RCS Advisors
Jul 21, 2025
Parent Perspective: Does My Roth IRA Impact My Child’s Financial Aid?

Parent Perspective: Does My Roth IRA Impact My Child’s Financial Aid?

As a parent, you’ve done the responsible thing: saved for retirement in a Roth IRA, and maybe even kept it in mind as a backup for college expenses. But if your child is applying for financial aid, you might be wondering: Will my Roth IRA hurt their eligibility? Here’s how your Roth IRA is treated u

RCS Advisors
Jul 17, 2025
Dollar Cost Averaging (DCA)

Dollar Cost Averaging (DCA)

Dollar cost averaging is an investment strategy where you contribute a fixed amount of money at regular intervals—regardless of market conditions.

RCS Advisors
Jul 16, 2025
Medicare: Eligibility, Enrollment Periods, and How It All Fits Together

Medicare: Eligibility, Enrollment Periods, and How It All Fits Together

Navigating Medicare can feel overwhelming at first glance—but it doesn’t have to be. Whether you’re nearing age 65 or helping a loved one prepare, understanding the core components of Medicare can help you make confident, informed decisions about your health coverage in retirement. Here’s a breakdow

Christian West
Jul 14, 2025
What Borrowers Need to Know About the SAVE Plan Forbearance Update

What Borrowers Need to Know About the SAVE Plan Forbearance Update

If you or your child are on the Saving on a Valuable Education (SAVE) income-driven repayment (IDR) plan, you may have recently received a notice from Federal Student Aid. With key legal developments impacting this repayment option, it’s essential to understand what’s changing—and what steps you can

RCS Advisors
Jul 10, 2025
Understanding the Rule of 72: How Compounding Can Impact Investment Growth

Understanding the Rule of 72: How Compounding Can Impact Investment Growth

The Rule of 72 is one of the most powerful yet overlooked tools in personal finance.

RCS Advisors
Jul 9, 2025
Key Highlights in Trump’s "Big Beautiful Bill" and Their Impact on Your Finances

Key Highlights in Trump’s "Big Beautiful Bill" and Their Impact on Your Finances

On July 4, 2025, President Donald Trump signed the "One Big Beautiful Bill Act," a comprehensive tax and spending package that introduces significant changes to the U.S. tax code and financial landscape. This legislation makes permanent the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act provisions, introduces new tax b

Joshua Rigden
Jul 8, 2025
Five Key Impacts of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act

Five Key Impacts of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act

Changes for equity investors and potential actions to consider in response On July 3, 2025, Congress passed and on July 4th the President signed into law the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” (OBBBA), a sweeping fiscal package aimed at tax reform, business incentives, and federal budget adjustments. Whi

Joshua Rigden
Jul 8, 2025
Markets Have Strong 2nd Quarter

Markets Have Strong 2nd Quarter

Global Market Commentary: Second Quarter 2025 In the second quarter of 2025, U.S. equity markets posted strong gains, buoyed by moderating inflation and resilient investor sentiment despite global trade tensions. A key driver of market movement was the evolving tariff landscape, with newly imposed l

Joshua Rigden
Jul 2, 2025
Mid-Year Money Check: 7 Smart Financial Moves to Make in July

Mid-Year Money Check: 7 Smart Financial Moves to Make in July

As we pass the halfway point of the year—July 2 marks day 183 of 365—it’s the perfect time to pause, reflect, and re-align your financial strategy. A mid-year financial check-in can help you stay on track, adapt to changes, and make the most of the months ahead. Whether you’re planning for retiremen

Christian West
Jul 2, 2025
What the proposed 2025 Tax Law Means for Your Wealth: A Client’s Guide to Financial Readiness

What the proposed 2025 Tax Law Means for Your Wealth: A Client’s Guide to Financial Readiness

The proposed 2025 Senate tax legislation introduces some of the most sweeping changes to tax policy since 2017—bringing fresh opportunities, potential pitfalls, and new strategies for preserving and growing wealth.

RCS Advisors
Jul 1, 2025
2025 Social Security and Medicare Trustees Report: What Retirees Need to Know

2025 Social Security and Medicare Trustees Report: What Retirees Need to Know

The recently released 2025 Social Security and Medicare Trustees Report offers a fresh look at the financial outlook of two of America’s most vital retirement programs. While the report confirms continued pressure on funding, it also underscores the importance of proactive retirement and healthcare

Christian West
Jun 24, 2025
Why the First Years of Retirement Matter Most: Understanding and Reducing Sequence of Returns Risk

Why the First Years of Retirement Matter Most: Understanding and Reducing Sequence of Returns Risk

Introduction Retirement brings a welcome shift—from saving diligently to drawing down your nest egg. But it also introduces a new risk that many investors overlook: sequence of returns risk. Even if you’ve saved enough and invested wisely, poor market performance in the early years of retirement can

Christian West
Jun 24, 2025
Our thoughts on the Israel/Iran conflict and the key associated risks.

Our thoughts on the Israel/Iran conflict and the key associated risks.

Our Perspective Geopolitical events, like the current tensions between Israel and Iran, often trigger short-term market volatility. Historically, these reactions are brief, and markets typically return to their prior trends. We expect this situation to follow a similar path. What’s Happening Hostili

Joshua Rigden
Jun 20, 2025
1031 vs. 721 Exchanges: Strategies for Real Estate Exit Planning

1031 vs. 721 Exchanges: Strategies for Real Estate Exit Planning

Both 1031 and 721 exchanges are valuable tools—but the right fit depends on your financial goals, time horizon, and appetite for active property management.

Christian West
Jun 13, 2025
U.S. Labor Market Analysis: Cooling Trends and Policy Implications

U.S. Labor Market Analysis: Cooling Trends and Policy Implications

Introduction The U.S. labor market has shown resilience amid economic challenges, but recent data indicates a steady cooling trend. This report provides a detailed, client-friendly overview of current labor market dynamics, broader economic indicators, and their implications for investors and policy

Joshua Rigden
Jun 9, 2025
WEP and GPO Are Officially Repealed: What This Means for Your Social Security Benefits

WEP and GPO Are Officially Repealed: What This Means for Your Social Security Benefits

In a major victory for retirees across the country, the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and the Government Pension Offset (GPO) have officially been repealed. The Social Security Fairness Act (H.R. 82) was signed into law by President Biden on January 5, 2025, eliminating both provisions and re

Christian West
Jun 8, 2025
The 3-Bucket Strategy for Retirement: A Simple Framework for Income

The 3-Bucket Strategy for Retirement: A Simple Framework for Income

When it comes to building a sustainable income plan in retirement, managing risk and access to funds becomes just as important as generating returns. One popular approach that balances these priorities is the 3-Bucket Strategy—a framework that divides your retirement savings into three distinct “buc

Christian West
Jun 5, 2025
Market Report: May

Market Report: May

We want to provide you with a clear and concise update on the recent U.S.-China tariff de-escalation and its implications for the economy and your investments. Here’s what you need to know and our perspective on how to position your portfolio moving forward. Key Developments Tariff Relief: The U.S.

Joshua Rigden
May 28, 2025
How Small Businesses Can Benefit from Offering a 401(k) Plan

How Small Businesses Can Benefit from Offering a 401(k) Plan

For many small business owners, retirement planning tends to focus on their own future—but what about creating retirement opportunities for employees? Offering a small business 401(k) plan not only helps you secure your own financial future but also attracts and retains valuable talent in an increas

Joshua Rigden
May 12, 2025

Subscribe to our insights

Quarterly market commentary and planning ideas — delivered to your inbox. No noise, no sales pitches.

Subscribe