The second quarter of 2026 delivered strong gains across nearly every major market. Emerging markets led the way, surging 24.05%, followed by the U.S. stock market at 15.44% and Global Real Estate at 10.76%. International Developed markets also posted a solid 10.22%. Fixed income markets contributed positive returns as well,
Divorce creates emotional stress, legal complexity, and financial uncertainty at the same time. Decisions involving the house, retirement accounts, investments, taxes, insurance, and debt can shape your finances for decades. That makes financial planning during a divorce about much more than dividing assets. You need to understand what you own,
Moving to Texas can create meaningful financial opportunities, especially for families and business owners relocating from states with high personal income taxes. Texas does not impose an individual state income tax, which can significantly improve cash flow for high earners, retirees, entrepreneurs, and investors. However, moving to Texas does not
Retirement is one of life’s most exciting milestones, and honestly, one of the most anxiety-inducing. After decades of saving, the big question shifts from ‘how do I grow my money?’ to ‘how do I make it last?’ That shift can feel quite unsettling, especially when markets are unpredictable and no
Choosing a financial advisor is a major decision and shouldn’t be taken lightly. The process involves more than finding someone who has the best credentials, highest investment performance, or lowest fees. It’s about finding someone who understands your life, your goals, and the financial landscape you navigate every day. While
Families in Westlake give generously and consistently, supporting their churches, the local schools, youth sports, and the causes that shape the community. Most write checks throughout the year and never think about the tax side of that generosity. That habit feels simple, but it often costs more than it should.
If you work at a tech company, a startup, or any growth-stage business, equity is probably a meaningful piece of your total comp. And the odds are good that nobody walked you through how the taxes actually work. Most HR departments hand over a grant agreement and move on. That
Life insurance is one of the most common tools for protecting your family’s financial future. But many people are surprised to learn that the death benefit they worked so hard to secure can be reduced by estate taxes (or tangled up in probate) if the policy isn’t structured carefully. An
Most people give to charity from their checking account. They write a check, they claim a deduction if they itemize, and they move on. It works, but it leaves money on the table. A donor-advised fund, often shortened to DAF, changes the math. It lets you give the same amount
Today, we recognize Juneteenth, a day that commemorates the end of slavery in the United States and celebrates freedom, resilience, and progress. Juneteenth serves as an important reminder that meaningful change often takes time, perseverance, and a commitment to moving forward together. It is a day to reflect on our