Major Types of Investment Vehicles

Presented by Marc Aarons

I know that investing can feel overwhelming. After all, each type of investment vehicle offers a unique balance of risk, reward, and flexibility, and each investor requires a different mix of each type.

With that said, one of the best ways to feel empowered in your financial life is through education. It’s in that spirit that I thought I would share an overview of the main types of investment vehicles.

Stocks

• What they are: Stocks represent partial ownership in a company. When you buy a stock, you’re buying a share of that company and potentially a portion of its profits.
• Advantages: Potential for strong long-term growth, the ability to earn dividends, and high liquidity since they can be bought and sold on public exchanges.
• Disadvantages: Prone to market volatility, losses can be significant, and individual stock selection requires research and risk tolerance.

Bonds

• What they are: Bonds are debt instruments you purchase, essentially lending money to a corporation or government. In exchange, the issuer agrees to return your original investment (the principal) along with interest that has accrued once the bond matures.
• Advantages: Generally less risky than stocks, provide regular income, and may help stabilize an investment portfolio.
• Disadvantages: Lower potential returns, risk of default from the issuer, and bond prices can be affected by interest rate changes.

Mutual Funds

• What they are: Mutual funds pool money from multiple investors to invest in a diversified mix of stocks, bonds, or other securities, managed by professionals.
• Advantages: Instant diversification, professionally managed, and easy access with relatively low initial investments.
• Disadvantages: Management fees and expense ratios can eat into returns, limited control over individual holdings, and potential tax inefficiencies.

Exchange-Traded Funds 

• What they are: ETFs are similar to mutual funds but trade on stock exchanges like individual stocks, offering access to a wide variety of markets or sectors.
• Advantages: Low fees, tax efficiency, and the flexibility to trade throughout the day.
• Disadvantages: Intraday price volatility, potential brokerage fees, and certain ETFs may lack diversification.

Certificates of Deposit (CDs)

• What they are: CDs are time deposits you open through a bank by agreeing to leave your money untouched for a fixed term. In return, the bank pays you a guaranteed interest rate and returns your full deposit along with that interest when the term ends.
• Advantages: Very low risk, predictable returns, and often Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation insured.
• Disadvantages: Limited liquidity due to early withdrawal penalties, lower returns compared to stocks and other market-based investments, and funds are locked in for a fixed term.

Real Estate and Collectibles

• What they are: These are tangible assets such as rental properties, precious metals, or artwork, bought with the intent to generate income or appreciate in value.
• Advantages: Can offer passive income, potential for value growth, and a hedge against inflation.
• Disadvantages: Illiquidity, high entry and maintenance costs, and potential difficulty in accurately valuing or selling assets.

Target-Date Funds

• What they are: These funds automatically adjust their asset allocation over time based on a planned retirement date, shifting from growth to preservation.
• Advantages: Convenient, hands-off investing with built-in diversification and a shifting strategy to reduce risk over time.
• Disadvantages: May not match individual goals or risk tolerance, can have varying fee structures, and investors still need to monitor for suitability.

I hope this was a helpful overview for you. As always, if you have questions or would like help reviewing your investment strategy, feel free to reach out. We’re always here to support your financial journey.

Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns.

Marc Aarons may be reached at 714-887-8000 or Email Marc

Money Managers inc. Website

Investment advisory and financial planning services are provided by Money Managers, Inc. a registered investment advisor.  Our CRD Number is 151602.  To access our most recent version of our Form ADV, Form ADV Part 2A and privacy policy, visit https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/. This information is for educational purposes only.  Information presented is for educational purposes only and does not intend to make an offer or solicitation for the sale or purchase of any securities, and past performance is not indicative of future results.  Investments involve risk and are not guaranteed.  Be sure to first consult with a qualified financial adviser and/or tax professional before implementing any strategy discussed here.

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6 Reasons for a “Rainy Day” Emergency Fund

Presented by Marc Aarons

I’m reaching out this spring to highlight an issue of utmost importance: being prepared financially for the unexpected. With spring showers picking up around us, there’s no better time to talk about saving up a financial cushion to shield you from life’s unpredictable downpours.

Like an umbrella during spring rains, an emergency fund protects you during sudden financial hardships. Here’s why an emergency fund is critical for every household:

1. Unexpected expenses – Life is full of surprises, and unfortunately, some can be costly. An emergency fund helps cover sudden financial needs, such as medical bills, car repairs, or home maintenance.
2. Financial security – Knowing you have a safety net for unforeseen expenses gives you greater financial stability and well-being.
3. Avoiding debt – When emergencies arise, it’s easy to use credit cards or loans to cover the costs. However, this can lead to a vicious cycle of debt and added interest fees. An emergency fund enables you to manage unexpected expenses without borrowing money and accruing debt.
4. Protecting savings and investments – Without an emergency fund, you may be tempted to tap into your long-term savings or investments to cover unexpected expenses. This can derail your financial plans and hinder the growth of your assets. An emergency fund ensures that your savings and investments remain untouched and continue to grow.
5. Job loss or income disruption – An emergency fund is particularly important during times of unemployment or reduced income. It serves as a financial buffer, helping you cover your living expenses while you search for a new job.
6. Flexibility and adaptability – Life circumstances change, and an emergency fund gives you the flexibility to adapt to those changes. Whether it’s relocating for a new job opportunity, escaping an unhealthy living situation, or making a career change, having an emergency fund grants you the financial freedom to make important life decisions with confidence.

While tailoring your fund to suit your comfort level is crucial, I generally recommend working towards three to six months’ worth of living expenses set aside in an easily accessible checking or high-yield savings account.

Take care, and, as always, let me know if I can help — that’s why I’m here.

Marc Aarons may be reached at 714-887-8000 or marc@ocmoneymanagers.com

www.ocmoneymanagers.com

This communication is from Money Managers, Inc.; a Securities and Exchange Commission registered investment advisor.  Information presented is for educational purposes only and does not intend to make an offer or solicitation for the sale or purchase of any securities, and past performance is not indicative of future results.  Investments involve risk and are not guaranteed.  Be sure to first consult with a qualified financial adviser and/or tax professional before implementing any strategy discussed here.

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What is an Annuity?
What you should know about them.

Provided by Marc Aarons

Individuals hold about $2.5 trillion in annuity contracts; a tidy sum considering an estimated $12.2 trillion is held in all types of IRAs.¹

Annuity contracts are purchased from an insurance company. In exchange, the insurance company makes regular payments to the buyer — either immediately or at some future date. These payments can be made monthly, quarterly, annually, or in a single lump sum. Annuity contract holders can opt to receive payments for the rest of their lives or a set number of years.

The money invested in an annuity grows tax-deferred. The amount contributed to the annuity will not be taxed when the money is withdrawn, but earnings will be taxed as regular income. There is no contribution limit for an annuity.

There are two main types of annuities. Fixed annuities offer a guaranteed payout, usually a set dollar amount or a set percentage of the assets in the annuity. Variable annuities offer the possibility to allocate premiums between various subaccounts. This gives annuity owners the ability to participate in the potentially higher returns these subaccounts offer. It also means that the annuity account may fluctuate in value.

Indexed annuities are specialized variable annuities. During the accumulation period, the rate of return is based on an index. Annuities have contract limitations, fees, and charges, including account and administrative fees, underlying investment management fees, mortality and expense fees, and charges for optional benefits. Most annuities have surrender fees that are usually highest if you take out the money in the initial years of the annuity contract. Withdrawals and income payments are taxed as ordinary income. If a withdrawal is made before age 59½, a 10% federal income tax penalty may apply (unless an exception applies). The guarantees of an annuity contract depend on the issuing company’s claims-paying ability. Annuities are not guaranteed by the FDIC or any other government agency.

Variable annuities are sold by prospectus, which contains detailed information about investment objectives and risks as well as charges and expenses. You are encouraged to read the prospectus carefully before investing or sending money to buy a variable annuity contract. The prospectus is available from the insurance company or your financial professional. Variable annuity subaccounts will fluctuate based on market conditions and may be worth more or less than the original amount invested when the annuity expires.

Case Study: Robert’s Fixed Annuity. Robert is a 52-year-old business owner. He uses $100,000 to purchase a deferred fixed annuity contract with a 4% guaranteed return.

Over the next 15 years, the contract will accumulate, tax-deferred. By the time Robert is ready to retire, the contract should be worth over $180,000.

At that point, the contract will begin making annual payments of $13,250. Only $7,358 of each payment will be taxable; the rest will be considered a return of principal.

These payments will last the rest of Robert’s life. Assuming he lives to age 85, he’ll eventually receive over $265,000 in payments.

Marc Aarons may be reached at 714-887-8000 or marc@ocmoneymanagers.com.

ocmoneymanagers.com

MMI Disclosure: This material was prepared by MarketingPro, Inc., and does not necessarily represent the views of the presenting party, nor their affiliates. This information has been derived from sources believed to be accurate. Please note – investing involves risk, and past performance is no guarantee of future results. The publisher is not engaged in rendering legal, accounting or other professional services. If assistance is needed, the reader is advised to engage the services of a competent professional. This information should not be construed as investment, tax or legal advice and may not be relied on for the purpose of avoiding any Federal tax penalty. This is neither a solicitation nor recommendation to purchase or sell any investment or insurance product or service, and should not be relied upon as such. All indices are unmanaged and are not illustrative of any particular investment.

^Citations

1. ^{Investment Company Institute, 2020}

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Are You Retiring Within the Next 5 Years?

What to focus on as the transition approaches 

Provided by Marc Aarons

You can prepare for the transition years in advance. In doing so, you may be better equipped to manage anything unexpected that may come your way.

How much monthly income will you need? Unfortunately, there is no “magic” number for everyone to strive for. Instead, examine your monthly expenses, considering any trips, adventures, or pursuits you have in mind for the near term. As a test, you can even try living on your projected monthly income for 2-3 months prior to retiring.

Should you downsize or relocate? Your home is not only a significant asset, it also represents a significant part of your lifestyle. After all, our homes are often a reflection of who we are. It follows that the decision of how much home we want—or need—may vary with each situation; it is not strictly a financial decision. However, if you are considering downsizing or relocating, the financial component of the decision should be considered thoughtfully.

How should your portfolio be constructed? For many retirees, the top priority is generating consistent income. With that in mind, your financial professional can adjust your portfolio with respect to your time horizon, risk tolerance, and goals. For example, some retirees prefer to maintain an amount of risk-averse investments that can provide income during retirement. However, even the most risk-averse investments aren’t immune to risk entirely.

How will you live? Whether you dream of endless Saturdays or dedicating your time to volunteering, remember that retirement is a beginning. Ask yourself what you would like to begin doing now. Think about how to structure your days to pursue that goal, and give it a shot! There’s no better way to prepare for what may come, than to practice in the present.

How will you take care of yourself? If you retire before age 65, Medicare may not be an option. If you’re considering early retirement, check if your group health plan extends certain benefits into retirement.

Even if you retire at 65 or later, Medicare may not be your ideal solution. Consider items Medicare doesn’t traditionally cover, such as extended care or other specialized medical services.

Review your retirement strategy as the transition approaches. Give your financial professional a call today. An adjustment or two before retirement may be all you need for a successful next chapter.

Marc Aarons may be reached at 714-887-8000 or marc@ocmoneymanagers.com.

www.ocmoneymanagers.com

MMI Disclosure: This material was prepared by MarketingPro, Inc., and does not necessarily represent the views of the presenting party, nor their affiliates. This information has been derived from sources believed to be accurate. Please note – investing involves risk, and past performance is no guarantee of future results. The publisher is not engaged in rendering legal, accounting or other professional services. If assistance is needed, the reader is advised to engage the services of a competent professional. This information should not be construed as investment, tax or legal advice and may not be relied on for the purpose of avoiding any Federal tax penalty. This is neither a solicitation nor recommendation to purchase or sell any investment or insurance product or service, and should not be relied upon as such. All indices are unmanaged and are not illustrative of any particular investment. Investments seeking to achieve higher rate of return also involve a higher degree of risk.

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How Market Cycles Can Impact Retirements
Sequence of returns can play a role in your overall portfolio.

Provided by Marc Aarons

A thoughtful retirement strategy may help you pursue your many retirement goals. That strategy must consider many factors, and here are just a few: your income needs, the order of your withdrawals from taxable and tax-advantaged retirement accounts, the income tax implications of those withdrawals, and sequence of return risk.

Just what is the sequence of return risk? In brief, it is the risk that market declines in the early years of retirement, combined with steady withdrawals, could reduce your portfolio’s outlook.

A recent CNBC article mentioned how sequence of return risk can affect retirement accounts. It used a 20-year example – someone retiring in 2000 with $1 million in an account tracking the returns of the S&P 500, making withdrawals of $40,000 a year that increased 2% annually in view of inflation.

In 2000, a bear market began. The 37% pullback for the S&P 500 that occurred in 2000-02 would have reduced the $1 million account to about $470,000 by January 1, 2020, the end of the 20-year period. The balance reflects the annual withdrawals of $40,000 and the 2009-20 bull market.¹

Now, if the order of yearly returns were flipped, the portfolio would show much different performance. At the end of the 20-year period, the retiree would have had more than $2.3 million in that account after the exact same schedule of income distributions.¹

It’s critical to point out that investing involves risk, and past performance does not guarantee future results. The return and principal value of stock prices will fluctuate as market conditions change. And shares, when sold, may be worth more or less than their original cost.

The S&P 500 Composite Index is an unmanaged index that is considered representative of the overall U.S. stock market. Individuals cannot invest directly in an index, and index performance is not indicative of the past performance of a particular investment.

In retirement, it is vital to address risk and volatility. You have less time and may have fewer opportunities to rebuild your savings.  Fortunately, there are ways to address the challenge of sequence of return risk and manage your portfolio risk while looking for opportunities.

Marc Aarons may be reached at 714-887-8000 or marc@ocmoneymanagers.com.

www.ocmoneymanagers.com

MMI Disclosure: This material was prepared by MarketingPro, Inc., and does not necessarily represent the views of the presenting party, nor their affiliates. This information has been derived from sources believed to be accurate. Please note – investing involves risk, and past performance is no guarantee of future results. The publisher is not engaged in rendering legal, accounting or other professional services. If assistance is needed, the reader is advised to engage the services of a competent professional. This information should not be construed as investment, tax or legal advice and may not be relied on for the purpose of avoiding any Federal tax penalty. This is neither a solicitation nor recommendation to purchase or sell any investment or insurance product or service, and should not be relied upon as such. All indices are unmanaged and are not illustrative of any particular investment.

^Citations

1. ^{CNBC, January 21, 2022}

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It’s a new year, full of new possibilities for what may lie ahead.

 Provided by Marc Aarons

 By any measure, 2021 was a strong year for investors. But what’s in store for 2022? From my perspective, I expect that many of the same forces that influenced markets last year will play a role again in the year ahead.

COVID-19 remains tragic and unpredictable. The pandemic was one of the primary drivers of financial market activity in 2021. I hope that the worst is behind us, but I would not be surprised to see COVID-related events influence markets in the New Year.

The Federal Reserve will continue to get its share of headlines. From Fed Chair’s Powell’s nomination hearings to potential changes in interest rates, expect investors’ attention to shift to the Fed from time to time in 2022.

Tax law changes are always possible, but many of the anticipated federal tax law changes in 2021 were linked to President Biden’s Build Back Better plan, which ended the year in debate with Congress. So stay tuned here.

Thanks for your confidence in 2021. Here’s to a prosperous new year!

Marc Aarons may be reached at (714) 887-8000 or marc@ocmoneymanagers.com

 ^{MMI Disclosure This material was prepared by MarketingPro, Inc., and does not necessarily represent the views of the presenting party, nor their affiliates. This information has been derived from sources believed to be accurate. Please note – investing involves risk, and past performance is no guarantee of future results. The publisher is not engaged in rendering legal, accounting or other professional services. If assistance is needed, the reader is advised to engage the services of a competent professional. This information should not be construed as investment, tax or legal advice and may not be relied on for the purpose of avoiding any Federal tax penalty. This is neither a solicitation nor recommendation to purchase or sell any investment or insurance product or service, and should not be relied upon as such. All indices are unmanaged and are not illustrative of any particular investment}

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One lesser-known indicator is called the Baltic Dry Index.

 Provided by Marc Aarons

 You see it in prices at the grocery store and the gas station. You feel it in your monthly budget. So why don’t the financial markets seem too concerned about inflation?

Remember, financial markets are considered “discounting mechanisms,” meaning they are looking six- to nine-months into the future. And by June 2022, the financial markets expect that inflation will lower than today.¹

One lesser-known indicator helps support that forecast is called the Baltic Dry Index. It measures the cost of transporting raw materials, such as coal and steel. The index has been trending lower for several weeks, which in the past has suggested that prices may be more manageable in the months ahead.² 

No indicator is fool-proof. That’s why the Baltic Dry Index is just one of the many indicators that our professionals follow when watching inflation. They also keep a close eye on the Fed, which is responsible for controlling inflation.³

With the economy improving, the Federal Reserve has indicated it will be tapering bond purchases this month. That may help with inflation. The Fed also has prepared the markets for higher interest rates in 2022. That, too, may help.⁴

For now, it’s important to understand that Inflation can influence interest rates, which often play a role in how a portfolio is constructed. We’re keenly focused on what’s next for inflation to determine if any portfolio changes are appropriate in the future.

Marc Aarons may be reached at (714) 887-8000 or marc@ocmoneymanagers.com

^{MMI Disclosure This material was prepared by MarketingPro, Inc., and does not necessarily represent the views of the presenting party, nor their affiliates. This information has been derived from sources believed to be accurate. Please note – investing involves risk, and past performance is no guarantee of future results. The publisher is not engaged in rendering legal, accounting or other professional services. If assistance is needed, the reader is advised to engage the services of a competent professional. This information should not be construed as investment, tax or legal advice and may not be relied on for the purpose of avoiding any Federal tax penalty. This is neither a solicitation nor recommendation to purchase or sell any investment or insurance product or service, and should not be relied upon as such. All indices are}

^{This material was prepared by MarketingPro, Inc., and does not necessarily represent the views of the presenting party, nor their affiliates. This information has been derived from sources believed to be accurate. Please note – investing involves risk, and past performance is no guarantee of future results. The publisher is not engaged in rendering legal, accounting or other professional services. If assistance is needed, the reader is advised to engage the services of a competent professional. This information should not be construed as investment, tax or legal advice and may not be relied on for the purpose of avoiding any Federal tax penalty. This is neither a solicitation nor recommendation to purchase or sell any investment or insurance product or service, and should not be relied upon as such. All indices are unmanaged and are not illustrative of any particular investment.}

^{Investing involves risks, and investment decisions should be based on your own goals, time horizon, and risk tolerance. The return and principal value of investments will fluctuate as market conditions change. When sold, investments may be worth more or less than their original cost.}

^{The forecasts or forward-looking statements are based on assumptions, subject to revision without notice, and may not materialize.}

^Citations

1. ^{Investopedia.com, 2021}
2. ^{CNBC.com, November 10, 2021}
3. ^{ClevelandFed.org, 2021}
4. ^{CNBC.com, November 3, 2021}

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Wise investors take the “big picture” view.

Provided by Marc Aarons

 CNBC’s Mad Money host Jim Cramer created the popular FAANG acronym to denote some of the largest, most powerful companies in the world: Facebook, Amazon, Apple, Netflix, and Google. Recently, changes in those companies are reflected in Cramer’s new acronym: MAMAA, which stands for Microsoft (replacing Netflix in this grouping), Alphabet, Meta, Amazon, and Apple.¹

Keep in mind that any companies or people mentioned in this letter are for general information, and should not be considered a solicitation or recommendation. Any investment should reflect your objectives, timeframe, and risk tolerance.

Google renamed its parent company Alphabet in 2015, but few outside the media refer to it as such. The same may be true for Facebook’s change to Meta.

So, what’s in a name? A change of name is often a reflection of a new corporate identity, like a statement of priorities. In the case of Meta, it signals a new priority on creating a “metaverse,” a sort of virtual reality space for business and leisure. This appears to be the new central focus of the corporation, and the name change brings attention to these efforts.

It’s possible, too, that such a branding exercise is also intended to protect its various brands, should they ever be in a position where breaking away one or more divisions of the organization is part of its overall corporate strategy.

It’s possible that your investment strategy involves one or more of the MAMAA companies, or you might have questions or concerns about these changes. I welcome a chance to discuss them with you.

Marc Aarons may be reached at (714) 887-8000 or marc@ocmoneymanagers.com

^{Investing involves risks, and investment decisions should be based on your own goals, time horizon, and risk tolerance. The return and principal value of investments will fluctuate as market conditions change. When sold, investments may be worth more or less than their original cost.}

 ^{MMI Disclosure This material was prepared by MarketingPro, Inc., and does not necessarily represent the views of the presenting party, nor their affiliates. This information has been derived from sources believed to be accurate. Please note – investing involves risk, and past performance is no guarantee of future results. The publisher is not engaged in rendering legal, accounting or other professional services. If assistance is needed, the reader is advised to engage the services of a competent professional. This information should not be construed as investment, tax or legal advice and may not be relied on for the purpose of avoiding any Federal tax penalty. This is neither a solicitation nor recommendation to purchase or sell any investment or insurance product or service, and should not be relied upon as such. All indices are unmanaged and are not illustrative of any particular investment}

^{This material was prepared by MarketingPro, Inc., and does not necessarily represent the views of the presenting party, nor their affiliates. This information has been derived from sources believed to be accurate. Please note – investing involves risk, and past performance is no guarantee of future results. The publisher is not engaged in rendering legal, accounting or other professional services. If assistance is needed, the reader is advised to engage the services of a competent professional. This information should not be construed as investment, tax or legal advice and may not be relied on for the purpose of avoiding any Federal tax penalty. This is neither a solicitation nor recommendation to purchase or sell any investment or insurance product or service, and should not be relied upon as such. All indices are unmanaged and are not illustrative of any particular investment.}

^Citations

1. ^{Fortune, October 29, 2021}

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Some parents and grandparents have that possibility in mind.

 Provided by Marc Aarons

 Individual Retirement Arrangements (IRAs) are for retirement saving, right? Absolutely. Is that their only purpose? Not necessarily.

Imagine using an IRA not only to save, but to facilitate a home purchase. This would obviously be a tall order for an adult, given current home values, yearly IRA contribution limits, and the priority of amassing retirement savings. How about for a child, though? Could an IRA help them out?

This thought has led some families to open custodial Roth IRAs. You can start a Roth IRA on behalf of a child, as long as that child has “earned income” (that is, income from either a W-2 job or some kind of self-employment). The IRA belongs to the child, but until the child becomes an adult, you (or some other adult) act as the IRA’s custodian.^1,2

The annual contribution limit on that Roth IRA is $6,000 (this limit may be adjusted up in future years due to inflation). Say your kid has made $4,000 from freelance web design, or serving up lattes at the local coffeehouse … or working at your business. All $4,000 could go into that IRA. That might not be the case, but whatever the amount, it may benefit from potential compounding over the next several years.³

You might want to consider this possible use for a Roth IRA.

What about taxes that come with taking the money out? After-tax dollars go into Roth IRAs, and if the account is at least five years old, up to $10,000 of the account balance (including earnings) may be withdrawn without being taxed, as long as the withdrawn amount is used for a home purchase and the IRA owner has not bought a home in the past two years. In doing this, you can even avoid the 10% tax penalty that normally comes when you take assets out of a Roth IRA before age 59½.^1,4

Plans may change, though. When a child turns 18 (or 21, in some states), a custodial IRA started on his or her behalf is no longer custodial. He or she is now the legal owner of that IRA. At that time, will the idea of using those IRA funds to buy real estate in the future seem worthwhile? Maybe, maybe not.⁵

That young adult may just elect to keep contributing to the Roth IRA and use it as a retirement savings account. Or maybe the IRA is suddenly drained to enable the purchase of a new truck, or to fund a year abroad, or to pay for college. Choices will emerge, and parents and grandparents must be mindful of them. There is also the fact that when you withdraw assets from a tax-advantaged account, you are reducing not only the account balance, but also the account’s potential degree of compounding for the future. These factors must be considered if you embrace this idea.

Remember that a Roth IRA offers tax deferral on any earnings in the account. Qualified withdrawals of earnings from the account are tax-free. Withdrawals of earnings prior to age 59 1⁄2 or prior to the account being opened for 5 years, whichever is later, may result in a 10% IRS penalty tax. Limitations and restrictions may apply. Also, tax rules are constantly changing, and there is no guarantee that the tax treatment of Roth (or traditional) IRAs will remain the same.

Marc Aarons may be reached at (714) 887-8000 or marc@ocmoneymanagers.com

  ^{MMI Disclosure This material was prepared by MarketingPro, Inc., and does not necessarily represent the views of the presenting party, nor their affiliates. This information has been derived from sources believed to be accurate. Please note – investing involves risk, and past performance is no guarantee of future results. The publisher is not engaged in rendering legal, accounting or other professional services. If assistance is needed, the reader is advised to engage the services of a competent professional. This information should not be construed as investment, tax or legal advice and may not be relied on for the purpose of avoiding any Federal tax penalty. This is neither a solicitation nor recommendation to purchase or sell any investment or insurance product or service, and should not be relied upon as such. All indices are unmanaged and are not illustrative of any particular investment}

^{This material was prepared by MarketingPro, Inc., and does not necessarily represent the views of the presenting party, nor their affiliates. This information has been derived from sources believed to be accurate. Please note – investing involves risk, and past performance is no guarantee of future results. The publisher is not engaged in rendering legal, accounting or other professional services. If assistance is needed, the reader is advised to engage the services of a competent professional. This information should not be construed as investment, tax or legal advice and may not be relied on for the purpose of avoiding any Federal tax penalty. This is neither a solicitation nor recommendation to purchase or sell any investment or insurance product or service, and should not be relied upon as such. All indices are unmanaged and are not illustrative of any particular investment.}

 ^Citations

1. ^{NerdWallet, June 11, 2021}
2. ^{Forbes, July 25, 2021}
3. ^{Internal Revenue Service, August 20, 2021}
4. ^{U.S. News, June 16, 2021}
5. ^{Business Insider, December 21, 2020}

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What does this mean for your overall retirement strategy?

Provided by Marc Aarons

 Your workplace retirement account can play a critical role in your overall retirement strategy. However, some have gone further with the accounts than others, especially recently.

CNBC reported on findings that place 401(k) accounts at all-time highs, with some even joining the much-desired “two comma club” of 401(k) millionaires. Average 401(k) balances jumped 24% from the previous year to $129,300. Also on the rise were overall contributions, with 12% increasing their contributions since last year and 37% of employers placing new employees into workplace plans. The study discovered a record 412,000 401(k) plans with million-dollar balances; overall Individual Retirement Account (IRA) millionaires reached 342,000, another record.¹

Some of this represents a correction from 2020 as well as the economic uncertainty faced during the early days of the global pandemic. People are rethinking their retirement needs and taking advantage of employer matches, if available. It also reflects businesses working to entice employees; even some restaurants are offering 401(k) plans to their workers these days, in a bid to maintain staffing levels year-round.¹

What does this mean for your overall retirement strategy? I’d be happy to talk to you about this and the many other choices open to you at your earliest convenience.

Marc Aarons may be reached at marc@ocmoneymanagers.com

^{MMI Disclosure This material was prepared by MarketingPro, Inc., and does not necessarily represent the views of the presenting party, nor their affiliates. This information has been derived from sources believed to be accurate. Please note – investing involves risk, and past performance is no guarantee of future results. The publisher is not engaged in rendering legal, accounting or other professional services. If assistance is needed, the reader is advised to engage the services of a competent professional. This information should not be construed as investment, tax or legal advice and may not be relied on for the purpose of avoiding any Federal tax penalty. This is neither a solicitation nor recommendation to purchase or sell any investment or insurance product or service, and should not be relied upon as such. All indices are unmanaged and are not illustrative of any particular investment}

^{This material was prepared by MarketingPro, Inc., and does not necessarily represent the views of the presenting party, nor their affiliates. This information has been derived from sources believed to be accurate. Please note – investing involves risk, and past performance is no guarantee of future results. The publisher is not engaged in rendering legal, accounting or other professional services. If assistance is needed, the reader is advised to engage the services of a competent professional. This information should not be construed as investment, tax or legal advice and may not be relied on for the purpose of avoiding any Federal tax penalty. This is neither a solicitation nor recommendation to purchase or sell any investment or insurance product or service, and should not be relied upon as such. All indices are unmanaged and are not illustrative of any particular investment.}

^Citations

1. ^{CNBC.com, August 19, 2021}

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