In this article, I aim to demystify the costs associated with hiring a financial advisor, providing transparency and sharing tips to help you make informed decisions when selecting a professional for your portfolio management and financial planning needs.

Zak Gardezy, CFP®, shares expert advice on maximizing your financial growth through smart tax strategies. Zak Gardezy covers essential tips to help you reduce your tax burden, optimize your investments, and ensure your wealth continues to grow. Don't miss these valuable insights from Zak Gardezy to enhance your financial planning and secure your financial future.

Estate planning is often seen as something that can be put off until later, but delaying it can lead to significant complications. Take Mary, for example, a woman in her late 70s who managed her own investments and lived alone. When cognitive decline unexpectedly set in, it became clear how critical it was to have a plan in place. Without an estate plan, her assets and wishes were at risk of falling into disarray. Fortunately, through timely intervention and the creation of a comprehensive estate plan, Mary’s assets were protected, and her family was spared the potential chaos and costs that can arise from lack of preparation. This real-life example underscores the importance of taking proactive steps in estate planning to ensure peace of mind and financial security for the future.

Over the years, many analysts have asserted that “a divided government is best for markets,” believing legislative gridlock reduces uncertainty and moderates policies. However, historical data tells a different story. Analyzing S&P 500 returns from 1926 to 2023, we find that unified governments have historically provided stronger market returns, with an average annual return of 14.15% compared to 10.18% under divided governments. As the 2024 elections approach, it’s crucial for investors to consider their specific financial goals and stages of life rather than relying solely on political outcomes. Zak Gardezy finds that unified governments, contrary to popular belief, have often resulted in more robust market performance.

Zak Gardezy, CFP® - a seasoned wealth manager and financial planner, delves into the transformative journey of the four industrial revolutions. The piece begins by outlining the profound shifts from steam and rail in the first revolution, to electrification in the second, the advent of computing in the third, and culminates in today's digital revolution powered by artificial intelligence.

Zak skillfully interweaves historical context with actionable investment thoughts, emphasizing how each revolution brought about pivotal changes in the US and global economies. The focus then shifts to the current era of AI, where Zak discusses its disruptive impact across various industries and society.