Whether you’re a dedicated DIYer or prefer to lean on professional guidance, the truth is clear: smart financial planning can save you a lot of money over time. Below, I’ll share some recent examples of tactical planning moves I participated in, including how much money was saved. COVID Panic In March 2020, you could be […]

The bachelor party decided to go to the casino. I happily went along for the ride. The behavioral finance nerd in me was ready to witness fascinating behavior. Gambling can certainly be entertaining, but it’s not financially savvy. As long as you know that, you’ll be ok – albeit a little lighter in the wallet. […]

In August 1979, Warren Buffett wrote an article for Forbes attacking the herd instinct of investors. The late 1970s were tough for the American economy, and the stock market reacted harshly. Buffett wrote, “…the future is never clear; you pay a very high price in the stock market for a cheery consensus. Uncertainty actually, is […]

Caleb writes in this week with a SPICY question. The answer surprised me. It might surprise you too. Jesse – I work for a small company that does not currently offer a 401(k) match. Do the numbers still suggest I should utilize it? Caleb What Are We Comparing? We need a point of comparison. If […]

You need to understand your willingness, need, and ability to take portfolio risks. It’s an idea that straddles the line between personal preference and objective truth. Let’s break down each of the three constituents, then put it all together with an example. Need Your need to take risks relates to the amount of objective investment […]

Imagine you’re a gardener. You spend a weekend building a few raised beds, planting sunflowers and corn, etc. It’s a nice little hobby. Your first summer gardening ends up successful and fulfilling. You come back for Year 2 with vigor! You want to expand. You spend a month preparing your beds and double the size […]

I spent 6 years in college studying mechanical engineering, and then 7 years working at an aerospace contractor where my colleagues and I designed, built, tested, and launched satellite-based telescope systems. One of the features of all engineering design is the concept of “factors of safety.” Simply put, factors of safety are margins built into […]

Friend of the blog DT wrote in and said: In regards to your recent “When to Take Social Security” article, you left something out. You can take Social Security early (say, age 62), then invest that money, and your investment will end up better than if you had waited on Social Security until age 67 […]

Thanks to reader Lynn, who wrote in this week with some specifics about her household’s situation and an overarching question: When should we start taking Social Security? I’ll provide background information below, and then we’ll discuss a few common “if –> then” heuristics to help you with your Social Security planning. Background – The Pros […]