Market commentary is intended for convenience, educational, and informational purposes only and should not be construed as individualized advice or recommendations. The discussions contained on this page are not a substitute for investment advice from a professional adviser. Readers should not use this content as the sole basis for any investment, financial planning, tax, legal or other decisions. Rather, a professional adviser should be consulted, and independent due diligence should be conducted before implementing any of the options referenced. While information presented is believed to be factual and up to date, SBK Financial, Inc. (“SBK”) does not guarantee its accuracy and it should not be regarded as a complete analysis of the subjects discussed. Due to various factors, including but not limited to changing market conditions, this market commentary may no longer be reflective of current opinions or recommendations. All expressions of opinion reflect the judgment of the authors as of the date of publication and are subject to change. SBK is not a certified public accounting firm, however, certain clients can also engage SBK under a separate agreement for tax preparation and/or planning services through SBK representatives who are Certified Public Accountants.

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Insights is a blog published by SBK Financial covering financial planning, investment management, tax strategies—and other information of interest to our clients and partners.

03 Nov 2023

Navigating Deferred Compensation Elections: Key Questions to Ask

Many public companies offer deferred compensation plans that provide additional tax deferral beyond your 401(k) savings. However, it's crucial to consider a broader perspective beyond just the immediate tax advantages. In this short video, Jonathan Bailey, CPA, CFP® walks you through four essential questions to contemplate when making your deferred compensation elections for the year ahead.

16 Feb 2023

SBK Financial Market Update Webinar – January 26, 2023

We were excited to welcome back Brad Long, the Partner and Chief Investment Officer from our investment research firm, Fiducient Advisors, to present a 2022 Market Recap and 2023 Outlook & Economic Themes to our clients. As usual Brad was able to bring us meaningful insights in a clear, concise, and timely format. If you are interested in viewing this recording, below is a link to the session.

21 Jul 2022

SBK Market Update: Corrections, Bear Markets and Recessions

July 2022

There is nothing enjoyable about market corrections and/or recessions. They can create fear, anxiety, and uncertainty, potentially requiring a change in plans - like reduced spending in retirement or an unanticipated job search. Perspective can go a long way to successfully navigating these periods, uncomfortable and difficult as they may be. Outlined below is some enduring guidance we can share having invested through bear markets and as students of history.

25 Jun 2021

Five Key Things from Biden’s Tax Proposals

On April 28, 2021, President Biden introduced the $1.8 trillion American Families Plan. Included within were several major proposed tax changes that Congress will deliberate between now and the end of the year.

Below are five key tax proposals that we are watching between now and year-end:

25 Nov 2020

Tax Reform Under Biden: On Hold for Now?

During his presidential campaign, Joe Biden outlined his tax policy proposals, which included rolling back some key provisions of the recent Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA). Even though tax reform may be on hold for 2020 or 2021, below we take a look at some of the key proposals of the "Biden Tax Plan" compared to current law.

17 Apr 2020

Coronavirus Coverage: Leveraging Tax Savings & Other Planning Opportunities

In the midst of the developing coverage of the coronavirus, individuals should not lose sight of significant planning opportunities -- some of which are tied to recent market volatility. Included within are some strategies that we are evaluating with our clients.

29 Jan 2020

Trusts In Captivity

SBK Planning Series: By Claire Craighill

The use of trusts to direct the disposition of assets has been around for centuries. The law of trusts first developed in the 12th century, at the time of the Crusades and under the jurisdiction of the King of England. The notion of articulating your wishes...

01 Dec 2019

SBK Year-End Tax Planning Newsletter: 2019

Reflections at Year-End, Decade Closes with 2019: By Dean Williams

1. Important Deadlines and Reminders
2. Income Threshold Planning
3. Charitable Giving: Maximize Your Benefit
4. 2020 Potential Proposals

26 Nov 2019

Family Meetings – How Can They Help Your Family?

SBK Planning Series: By Tom Doyle

Family meetings have become a critical element to the success of families wanting to preserve their traditions, values and perpetuate a lasting legacy. Productive, structured meetings are sometimes thought to be financial only in nature...

26 Sep 2019

The Charitable Deduction Has Changed – Has Your Charitable Giving Strategy Changed With It?

SBK Planning Series: By Dean Williams

Keeping track of itemized deductions is a routine habit for taxpayers. But for the first time in over thirty years, itemized deductions were significantly revamped starting...

01 Dec 2018

SBK Year-End Tax Planning Newsletter: 2018

Navigating the New Tax Environment at Year-End: By Dean Williams

1. Year-End Planning for Individuals
2. Charitable Giving Strategies
3. Retirement Planning: New Developments
4. Estate Planning: Revisiting Your Plan