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3 Estate Challenges for Blended Families

2025-03-25T12:05:01-05:00April 6, 2023|Categories: Resource Center|Tags: |

3 Estate Challenges for Blended Families

Estate planning can be a complex process, especially for individuals in blended families, which typically consist of couples with children from previous relationships. Blended families introduce unique challenges when it comes to deciding how assets will be distributed after death. In these families, where both new children and stepchildren are involved, estate strategies must be carefully thought out to ensure fairness and clarity. Below are several case studies that highlight key issues that blended families often face in estate planning.

Case Study #1: Children from Previous Marriages
A common mistake in estate planning is using a simple will that leaves all assets to the surviving spouse. This type of will can inadvertently overlook children from previous marriages, leaving them without an inheritance if the surviving spouse decides to alter the will. In blended families, estate plans must take into account both biological children and stepchildren, …

  • Electric Vehicles

Electric Vehicles

2025-03-25T12:10:48-05:00April 6, 2023|Categories: Resource Center|Tags: , , |

Electric Vehicles

The concept of electric vehicles (EVs) has been around for over a century, with the first electric car described by William Morrison in the 1890s. However, it is only in recent decades that electric vehicles have gained widespread attention and popularity. This transformation has been spurred by a combination of environmental concerns, technological advances, and shifts in consumer preferences. Today, EVs are at the heart of the future of mobility, with governments, businesses, and customers pushing for change.

The rise of environmental awareness in the past few decades has led to a global focus on reducing carbon emissions, and EVs are seen as a key solution. The introduction of the Toyota Prius in 1997 marked a turning point, being the first mass-produced hybrid electric vehicle and signaling the growing acceptance of alternative energy vehicles. Tesla’s debut in 2006 with luxury electric sports cars further accelerated the industry’s growth, …

  • History of Currency

History of Currency

2025-03-25T12:14:40-05:00April 6, 2023|Categories: Resource Center|Tags: |

History of Currency

To Barter or Not to Barter?

Bartering, once thought to be the earliest form of trade, is now considered inefficient. It was historically used as a supplement to more advanced systems of payment, as it required finding a person who wanted what you had to offer, which made the process cumbersome.

With the rise of agriculture, livestock like cattle and sheep, along with grain, became early forms of currency. These items were essential for sustenance and also represented wealth, with the word capitale (meaning livestock) eventually evolving into the word “capital.”

By 1300 BC, cowrie shells, small colorful shells from sea snails, began to be used as currency across different regions. They were small, divisible, and durable—ideal traits for money. This marked a shift from barter to more standardized forms of exchange.

Around 700-600 BC, coins were introduced in Turkey. Initially irregular in shape, coins made from electrum (a mix …

  • Half Million Dollar Baby

Half Million Dollar Baby

2025-03-25T12:18:06-05:00April 6, 2023|Categories: Resource Center|Tags: , , |

Half Million Dollar Baby

What Does It Actually Cost to Raise a Child?

The costs associated with raising a child start right at birth. A hospital bill for childbirth can easily reach up to $20,000, depending on various factors such as the type of birth and insurance coverage. Additionally, prenatal care adds extra expenses, often making the total cost even higher.

Food Costs

Once a child is born, feeding them becomes a significant part of the budget. On average, parents spend nearly $2,500 each year on food for their children. Over 18 years, this adds up to almost $45,000. These costs increase as the child grows and their nutritional needs change.

Hiring Help

For households with two working parents, the cost of childcare can be substantial. Depending on the type of care, expenses can range from $5,436 to $24,243 per year. Whether it’s daycare, a nanny, or other forms of help, these costs are …

The Great Resignation

2022-03-07T22:27:35-06:00March 6, 2022|Categories: Resource Center, Weekly Update|Tags: , , , , |

The Great Resignation

The Great Resignation — a popular phrase referring to the roughly 33 million Americans who have resigned since the spring of 2021 — is far more than just a movement of people quitting their jobs. It’s a shift in the mindset of primarily Millennial and Generation Z workers, who are fed-up and looking for a change.
In our latest article, we take a look at the phenomenon that is The Great Resignation and unpack why people are resigning and how companies are addressing this unprecedented labor market issue. Download the article here.
  • Alternative Investments - Luxury Collectibles, A Growing Asset Class

Alternative Investments – Luxury Collectibles, A Growing Asset Class

2025-03-25T12:27:44-05:00February 13, 2022|Categories: Resource Center|Tags: , , , |

Alternative Investments – Luxury Collectibles, A Growing Asset Class

In our new infographic below, we examine a unique alternative investment category — luxury collectibles.  Along with the infographic, download our latest article on alternative investments here – https://bit.ly/3gKB4KM

Alternative Investments: Luxury Collectibles as a Growing Asset Class

In the wake of the 2008 financial meltdown and the uncertainty of the global pandemic, investors have increasingly turned to alternative investments. Concerned that traditional stock markets no longer offer reliable capital preservation, many have sought new opportunities. Luxury collectibles, such as fine wine, art, jewelry, and watches, have become popular asset classes, offering low correlation to the market and potential for high returns.

Fine Wine

Investing in fine wine has gained traction as an alternative investment, particularly in times of market instability. After the 2008 crisis, the Liv-Ex 100 Index saw a remarkable 40.5% return. Even more recently, fine wine prices have continued …

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