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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 clients ultimately receive. Understanding these differences can help you make a more informed decision about who you trust with your financial future. Camp #1: The Investment Management

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 complexity. Eventually, there comes a point where "doing it yourself" starts to feel less like a hobby and more like a second full-time job.

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 and sales than long-term outcomes. We believed clients deserved better. That’s why we chose the fiduciary path. As a fee-only Registered Investment Advisor, we committed ourselves

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, it plays a very real role in your retirement income plan, especially if you’re currently receiving benefits or planning to claim them within the next few years. Below, we break d

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 flexibility when planning for education and long-term savings. Here’s what you should know. 529 to Roth IRA Rollover Basics Traditionally, 529 plans have been used for qualified ed

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, understanding your funding options is key to making a confident move. 1. Overview of Financing Options The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) guarantees several types of loans

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. Without careful preparation, families could find themselves facing unexpected funding gaps and more limited repayment options in the future. Why This Year Matters The federal student l

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 life I want to live? Financial fitness isn’t about perfection — it’s about progress. Just as with physical health, consistency and good habits make all the difference. Here are a few

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 errors. What Is a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD)? A Qualified Charitable Distribution allows individuals age 70½ or older to donate up to $108,000 per year ($216,000 for marri

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 you make the decision that best fits your long-term plan. Buying vs. Leasing at a Glance Feature Buying a Car (Financing) Leasing a Car Ownership You own the car once the loan is

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) exception, often referred to as Rule 72(t). This rule allows individuals to take penalty-free withdrawals if strict conditions are met. What Is SEPP? SEPP provides a framework fo

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.

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 early 2025, the landscape has shifted in ways that may affect your long-term planning. The Current Estate Tax Exemption For 2025, the federal estate and gift tax exemption is $13.

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

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 receive. Choosing incorrectly can mean overpaying taxes or facing IRS issues down the road. The Five Filing Status Options Single For taxpayers who are not married, legally separa

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 entirely accurate. The truth is more measured. The OBBB does not repeal the long-standing rules that make up to 85% of Social Security benefits taxable. Instead, it introduces a t

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 long-term financial success. Here’s what you can expect as a new client: Step One: Introductory Meeting (15–20 Minutes) Your journey begins with a brief conversation designed to le

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 more headaches than benefits. Before we dive into why, let’s acknowledge what makes real estate powerful in the first place. The Power of Real Estate Ownership Real estate can be a hi

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

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 to Review Insurance Policies Life doesn’t stand still—and neither should your insurance coverage. A good rule of thumb is to review your policies annually and anytime you experienc