Financial Symmetry: Balancing Today with Retirement

Recently, an executive order has set the stage for 401 (k) providers to potentially start offering investments like private equity, private real estate, digital assets (think bitcoin), commodities, and more—options typically reserved for pension funds and institutional investors. But what does this really mean for everyday savers? We break down the differences between traditional 401k offerings and these new alternatives, discuss the risks and potential rewards, and share questions you should ask yourself before making any changes to your investment lineup. Outline of This Episode [00:00] Exploring 401k alternative assets. [05:56] 401k market shift & fee impact. [06:57] Potential high returns vs. risks. [11:06] Private equity and closed-end funds. [13:59] The differences between public REITs and private real estate. [16:34] Private investments and evaluating portfolio fit. *********** 📰 See the full show notes here 🌐 Sign up here to receive a detailed pre-retirement checklist to ensure you are positioned to experience your ideal retirement.

Are you taking advantage of all your Roth opportunities? We break down the differences between the Roth IRA, Roth 401(k), or the Mego Backdoor Roth 401(k). by comparing your choices with another favorite summer treat - ice cream. We break down the basics, benefits, and ideal life stages for each account type—whether you’re just scooping your first vanilla cone with a Roth IRA, adding some flavor with a Roth 401(k), or going all-out Neapolitan with the Mega Backdoor Roth. We also share smart tips on tax brackets, income planning, and how to maximize your options for a sweeter financial future. If you’re looking to optimize your retirement savings and want more flexibility, this episode is the perfect treat. Outline of This Episode (00:00) Roth IRA Overview. (04:00) Mid-career Roth 401(k) strategy. (06:42) 401(k): Traditional vs. Roth Benefits. (11:08) Optimizing retirement savings strategies. (12:57) Tax strategies for retirement flexibility. (18:04) Retirement tax flexibility insights. *********** 📰 See the full show notes here 🌐 Sign up here to receive a detailed pre-retirement checklist to ensure you are positioned to experience your ideal retirement.

The second quarter of 2025 was anything but dull in the financial world. But despite the turbulence, both US and international stocks finished the first half of the year up over 10%. Over the last 12 months, markets have performed robustly, returning 14-19%.  Bonds have also held their own, with 6% returns over the last year. Investors have endured a roller coaster ride, especially after the dramatic market drop following tariff announcements and the subsequent quick recovery. Outline of This Episode [00:00] More about market volatility and recovery in 2025. [03:40] Tariff uncertainty challenges markets. [08:08] Gold offers inconsistent long-term real returns, unlike investments that generate cash flow. [09:49] The federal funds rate is expected to decrease, leading to lower bank interest rates for consumers. [12:56] Stick to your financial plan and ignore distractions to ensure long-term stability. *********** 📰 See the full show notes here 🌐 Sign up here to receive a detailed pre-retirement checklist to ensure you are positioned to experience your ideal retirement.

Tax season may feel far off, but with sweeping legislative changes just passed, proactive financial planning starts now. In this episode, we’re sharing our accessible, in-depth breakdown of the new Big Beautiful Bill, highlighting ten key tax provisions that every taxpayer should understand. Outline of This Episode [00:00] Summarizing the latest major legislation in 10 key tax provisions. [04:59] Be mindful of income limits for a taxpayer deduction. [08:05] Consider collating deductions into a single year to maximize tax benefits due to the temporary higher SALT limit. [11:44] Starting in 2026, non-itemizers can claim a permanent below-the-line deduction for charitable donations. [14:24] Many individual clean energy credits are being repealed. [18:16] Certain income isn't subject to federal tax, but deductions vary by filing status. *********** 📰 See the full show notes here 🌐 Sign up here to receive a detailed pre-retirement checklist to ensure you are positioned to experience your ideal retirement.

When is enough, enough? Many investors have recently found solace in growing their cash reserves, whether in their checking accounts, savings accounts, or certificates of deposit (CDs). With attractive yields and recent market turbulence still fresh in mind, it’s easy to assume that loading up on cash is a safe strategy. But there’s a hidden cost to keeping more money than you need. Not only does excessive cash limit your growth potential, but it can erode your long-term wealth, all because of a mix of emotional biases, historical events, and overlooked risks. Outline of This Episode [03:56] Artificial anchoring and recency bias can lead to overly cautious investing decisions. [09:14] Cash underperforms stocks and bonds long-term. [11:30] Market timing is risky; missing the 10 best days can significantly reduce returns. [15:10] Optimize cash flow through strategic sales while considering tax efficiency. [19:50] Maximize equities in a portfolio for high returns. [20:39] Focus on planning goals for the next 5 to 7 years. *********** 📰 See the full show notes here 🌐 Sign up here to receive a detailed pre-retirement checklist to ensure you are positioned to experience your ideal retirement.

At Financial Symmetry, our internship program has become a core pillar of our growth, innovation, and client experience. Over time, our program grew from simply filling resource gaps to a foundational development engine, helping to shape the services Financial Symmetry offers and the team culture itself. What has emerged from these iterations is the recognition that our best chance of success comes from integrating interns directly into the firm’s core wealth management processes. This hands-on approach creates a feedback loop where interns don’t just complete busywork; they contribute valuable perspectives and even shape workflows that staff rely upon to this day. Outline of This Episode [00:00] Financial Symmetry’s influential internship program, with insights from Heather Gudac. [04:13] Refining processes through internships. [06:42] Internship growth and uniqueness. [12:06] Intern assessment and development process. [14:50] Empowering interns through engagement. [17:49] Internship planning and goal setting. *********** 📰 See the full show notes here 🌐 Sign up here to receive a detailed pre-retirement checklist to ensure you are positioned to experience your ideal retirement.

Claiming Social Security as soon as you become eligible at age 62 is a common choice for Americans. While understandable, this decision can have significant, and often underappreciated, long-term consequences. For many, the urge to claim early may stem from financial necessity, lack of other income sources, or simply a desire to “get what you’ve paid for.” However, claiming early can reduce your benefit by as much as 30% compared to waiting until your full retirement age (typically around 67). If you are in the fortunate position of having other income sources, such as a pension, 401(k), brokerage accounts, or IRAs, delaying Social Security becomes a viable strategy. This moves the decision away from immediate need and toward maximizing lifetime income, building multigenerational wealth, and supporting charitable or legacy goals. Outline of This Episode [00:00] Most Americans claim Social Security at 62 due to a lack of other income, but those with additional resources or financial advice might delay claiming for long-term wealth planning. [04:16] Consider life expectancy in financial planning, especially for married couples. [08:56] Evaluate claiming benefits at different ages to optimize long-term financial outcomes, considering life expectancy and age gaps between spouses. [11:38] Social Security benefits, combined with other income, affect your tax bracket. [16:00] It’s important to integrate Social Security decisions into your broader retirement plan, considering income sources, tax liabilities, legacy goals, and timing. [17:18] Retirement tax decisions are complex, involve varying tax rates, and impact Social Security timing strategies. *********** 📰 See the full show notes here 🌐 Sign up here to receive a detailed pre-retirement checklist to assure you are positioned to experience your ideal retirement.

Chad and Mike break down the major moves in US and international markets from the past quarter, revealing why diversification works unexpectedly. They chat through the impact of recent tariff news, what those headlines might mean for the economy and your portfolio, and share evidence-based strategies for taking action (or not!) when markets get rocky. Outline of This Episode [0:00] Major moves in US and international markets from the past quarter [4:22] The benefits of diversified portfolios  [9:15] Trade deficit and tariffs explained [9:54] Tariffs impact product prices, and consumer costs increase  [13:03] Historic tariff surge of 22% shocks the stock market [16:27] Top Tech Chart Insights [20:39] Interest rates are expected to decline, making equities better for long-term growth *********** 📰 See the full show notes here 🌐 Sign up here to receive a detailed pre-retirement checklist to assure you are positioned to experience your ideal retirement.

Market volatility is never comfortable, but with the right mindset and a thoughtful plan, you can face downturns not as a victim, but as an opportunist. On this episode of the Financial Symmetry Show, we’re sharing our advice on managing your finances amid turbulent markets and giving you a helpful checklist to guide your decision-making when headlines make your stomach flip. Outline of This Episode [0:00] We discuss the importance of planning, reviewing its steps, and controlling expectations during unforeseen events. [4:29] Evaluate income, expenses, job security, income sources, and potential risks in financial planning. [7:14] Consider delaying major purchases or expenses if income is uncertain. Assess whether postponing could increase costs or cause issues. [12:53] Prepare for significant financial events that may impact your portfolio, like downsizing a home or receiving a large sum. [14:17] Evaluate your portfolio by considering your stock choices. [17:32] Avoid panic selling stocks, which often leads to long-term financial regret. [22:50] Take informed action for peace of mind; mindset and planning are key. *********** 📰 See the full show notes here 🌐 Sign up here to receive a detailed pre-retirement checklist to assure you are positioned to experience your ideal retirement.

Tax planning might not top everyone's list of leisure activities, but in the middle of tax season there’s a hidden opportunity. What if, instead of seeing it as a mere logistic hurdle, we embraced it as a moment to refine our financial strategy?  *********** 📰 See the full show notes here 🌐 Sign up here to receive a detailed pre-retirement checklist to assure you are positioned to experience your ideal retirement.

What if your retirement lasts much longer than you anticipated? Increasing life expectancies have reshaped our understanding of retirement and financial planning in recent years, and we’ll likely become more concerned about effectively managing financial resources throughout a potentially very long life in the future.  In this episode, we’re sharing some insights gleaned from a recent industry conference focused on the impacts of longevity on retirement planning. There's a growing need to rethink how long you'll need your savings to last and how you approach your investment strategies to accommodate potentially decades more of life.  We’re discussing the intriguing idea of a 150-year lifespan and the emergence of cutting-edge longevity research and how this thought-provoking information challenges our traditional views on aging and needs us to rethink traditional financial planning strategies.  Whether it's reimagining retirement careers or evaluating the future of medical advancements, we have to align our wealth span with a potentially extended health span. Join us as we unravel the financial implications of living longer and healthier lives. *********** 📰 See the full show notes here 🌐 Sign up here to receive a detailed pre-retirement checklist to assure you are positioned to experience your ideal retirement.

We're spotlighting women's wealth in honor of International Women's Day and Women's History Month. Join us as we dig into some of the stats surrounding women's financial empowerment. From the rising number of women controlling wealth as they outlive their spouses to tackling stereotypes that hinder women's earning potential, this episode addresses the systemic barriers that impact women's financial journeys.  *********** 📰 See the full show notes here 🌐 Sign up here to receive a detailed pre-retirement checklist to assure you are positioned to experience your ideal retirement.

Four categories are recognized under current regulations to qualify as an Eligible Designated Beneficiary (EDB). These include the surviving spouse, minor children of the decedent, a disabled or chronically ill individual as assessed at the time of the decedent's passing, and other individuals who are no more than ten years younger than the deceased account owner. If you fall into one of these categories, you'll be afforded more time and flexibility than Non-Eligible Designated Beneficiaries. This is due to recent regulatory changes, underscored by The Secure Act, altering the landscape of inherited IRAs. Outline of This Episode [00:00] The complexities and benefits of being an eligible designated beneficiary (EDB) for inheriting an IRA. [03:34] Eligible designated beneficiaries have two key advantages: more time and flexibility in inheritance. [08:21] Withdrawing from an IRA before age 59 incurs a 10% penalty and income tax; RMDs depend on age, starting at 73 for most people. [10:10] The stretch IRA avoids a 10% penalty by basing RMDs on life expectancy.  [15:46] Timing distributions strategically can reduce tax liability. Wait until retirement to avoid high tax brackets.  [18:01] Evaluate options carefully when inheriting an IRA, considering tax implications and future changes. *********** 📰 See the full show notes here 🌐 Sign up here to receive a detailed pre-retirement checklist to assure you are positioned to experience your ideal retirement.

Investing can often feel like riding a rollercoaster of exciting highs and daunting lows. This week, we’re digging into the intricacies of the financial planning process, focusing particularly on the importance of understanding market trends and the role diversification plays in safeguarding your wealth. Outline of This Episode (03:08) Investing with diversification mitigates risk; US stocks average 10% annual returns over the long term but vary yearly. (08:39) US and China stock market gains were largely driven by speculative buying, with US stocks being pricier than international and small stocks. (12:07) Tech stocks are currently overvalued, reminiscent of past market bubbles (15:57) Bonds have a stable 5% return, but cash rates are volatile and are expected to drop to 3.9% this year. (17:37) Despite acknowledging the unpredictability of the future, experts from BlackRock, JPMorgan, Schwab, and Vanguard forecast international markets to outperform US markets over the next decade. (20:01) Diversification guards against risk and helps investors achieve their goals *********** 📰 See the full show notes here 🌐 Sign up here to receive a detailed pre-retirement checklist to assure you are positioned to experience your ideal retirement.

Retirement, often portrayed as a glorious era of freedom and relaxation, has its own set of challenges beyond the financial arena. This week, we’re exploring the psychology behind retirement and discussing the four phases retirees go through.  Vacation/Honeymoon Phase: The initial euphoria of not having to set an alarm. Loss Phase: Often associated with disenchantment as the honeymoon phase wears off. Trial and Error Phase: Trying out various activities to find what gives life meaning. Reinvent and Rewire Phase: Adding a new sense of purpose and joy from activities outside oneself. The excitement of retirement can last about a year. The dreamy honeymoon phase is great, but when reality sets in, it can be tough. The transition takes time and usually involves emotional highs and lows as retirees grapple with their newfound freedom while trying to preserve their sense of identity, purpose, and routine.  *********** 📬 Download your Free Retire On Purpose Guide here.  📰 See the full show notes here 🌐 Sign up here to receive a detailed pre-retirement checklist to assure you are positioned to experience your ideal retirement.

As the holiday season approaches, many of us find ourselves thinking about gifts. While gifts can come in many forms, monetary gifts often cause the most confusion. In this episode of Financial Symmetry, hosts Chad Smith and Grayson Blaszak discuss the intricacies of financial gifting.  Financial gifting generally involves transferring assets, such as cash or securities, from one individual to another without expecting anything in return. This process can have several benefits, including seeing your loved ones enjoy the fruits of your generosity during your lifetime. *********** 📬 Download your Free Retire On Purpose Guide here.  📰 See the full show notes here 🌐 Sign up here to receive a detailed pre-retirement checklist to assure you are positioned to experience your ideal retirement.

Have you ever been in the middle of a road trip, and you come upon a roadblock where unexpected traffic adds a half hour or more to your journey?  Similar frustrating circumstances pop up in the years just before and just after retirement. During this new life transition, you are forced to confront retirement roadblocks, and if you don’t know how to maneuver around them, it can leave you feeling stuck. In this episode, we discuss 3 retirement roadblocks you may encounter along your retirement journey. Think of these tips as your GPS to make it easier to navigate around the retirement roadblocks you will inevitably face. *********** 📬 Download your Free Retire On Purpose Guide here.  📰 See the full show notes here 🌐 Sign up here to receive Retirement Weekly to get one email every week on all things retirement

Early retirement has unique financial planning challenges, particularly regarding health insurance and tax strategies. For people who retire before age 65, the challenge of finding affordable and adequate health insurance adds another layer of complexity to their financial plans.  *********** 📬 Download your Free Retire On Purpose Guide here.  📰 See the full show notes here 🌐 Sign up here to receive Retirement Weekly to get one email every week on all things retirement *********** Outline of This Episode [04:32] Considering Roth conversion for potential tax benefits [09:07] Rules around qualifying for ACA in 2025 [12:36] Early retirement may offer a low-tax window for Roth conversions, potentially reducing the lifetime tax burden [15:49] Consider long-term planning, not just immediate tax impacts, for decisions like Roth conversions [18:44] Roth conversions are typically completed at year's end to account for unexpected income changes affecting ACA MAGI estimates.

An inherited IRA is essentially an IRA received by a beneficiary after the original owner passes away. Whether it's a spouse, child, or another loved one, the key characteristic of an inherited IRA is that it transitions ownership upon death.  As Grayson Blaszek explains, the funds are transferred intact, but the way you handle and withdraw these funds comes with specific rules and timelines. Grayson and Matthew dig into the new rules in this episode.  *********** 📬 Download your Free Retire On Purpose Guide here.  📰 See the full show notes here 🌐 Sign up here to receive Retirement Weekly to get one email every week on all things retirement *********** Outline of This Episode [4:50] Differences between eligible and non-eligible designated beneficiaries [6:16] Why it’s important to list IRA beneficiaries to avoid tax inefficiency [8:19] The year that you inherit an IRA impacts that distribution requirement [10:18] Discussing inheritance can lead to meaningful conversations that make financial planning easier [14:17] You need to continue taking the required minimum distribution (RMD) if the decedent began them already [16:00] How to handle a 10-year account withdrawal strategy [22:07] Key takeaways about your withdrawal options with the new rules as a non-eligible designated beneficiary 

Investing can feel like a battle between two polar opposites within us, the rational and the emotional, just like the classic story of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. This week, Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde are our model investors, and we’re talking you through the spooky story of the risks, emotions, and rational strategies involved in long-term investing.  **** 📬 Download your Free Retire On Purpose Guide here.  📰 See the full show notes here 🌐 Sign up here to receive Retirement Weekly to get one email every week on all things retirement **** Outline of This Episode [03:06] Dr. Jekyll and Mr Hyde's wildly different investment strategies  [06:00]Strategies that help mitigate emotional reactions during elections and global crises  [07:38] Balancing short-term market volatility with a long-term investment perspective [10:37] How to stay aligned with long-term goals in the face of market downturns [13:28] Diversification to manage risk in an investment portfolio [14:17] Psychological factors that cause investors to feel more confident during market upswings [15:35] Automating your investment and savings strategy to prevent emotional decision-making