Xerxes Nabong, CFP®, CDFA®
Philip M. Maliniak, CRPC®
Nicole Brown-Griffin, CFP®, CDFA®, EA
Aaron Petty, Client Associate
Hampton Roads: (757) 394-3486
Greater Phoenix: (480) 687-9339
Orange County: (949) 660-8869
Love Your Finances
Smart Money Moves to Strengthen Your Future
February is all about love, including the care you put into your finances! As we continue working together on your financial goals, now is a great time to revisit key areas that build stability and peace of mind. Whether you’re planning with a partner or focusing on your own future, small steps today can make a big impact. Let’s explore five ways to keep your financial foundation strong this month.
1. Love & Money: Financial Planning for Couples
Money conversations are key to a healthy relationship. Whether you keep finances separate or combine them, aligning on goals—like saving for a home or planning for retirement—creates a stronger partnership. Discussing spending habits, debt, and investment strategies early and ongoing can help avoid conflicts and set a clear path forward. Develop a plan that works for both of you.
2. The Power of Compound Interest: Start Early, Stay Consistent
The best time to invest was yesterday—the second-best time is today! Compound interest allows your money to grow exponentially over time, making early contributions to retirement accounts or brokerage accounts crucial. Even small, consistent investments can make a significant impact decades down the road. If you’re not maximizing contributions to your 401(k) or IRA, now is the time to start.
3. Wealth Protection: Insuring What You Love
Protecting your wealth is just as important as growing it. Disability insurance safeguards your income if you’re unable to work, life insurance ensures your loved ones are financially secure, and estate planning preserves your assets for future generations. If it’s been a while since you reviewed your coverage or legal documents, now is a great time to ensure they still align with your needs. The right protections in place offer peace of mind, knowing you and your family are financially secure no matter what life brings.
4. Tax Season is Here: Smart Moves Before You File
Tax season is in full swing, and there’s still time to make strategic moves before the April 15th deadline to optimize your 2024 tax situation. Contributing to an HSA or IRA can help lower taxable income while building long-term savings. Looking ahead to 2025, if charitable giving is part of your plan, donor-advised funds (DAFs) or Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) can provide valuable tax advantages. Proactively reviewing your strategy now helps you maximize savings, stay ahead of tax changes, and avoid any last-minute surprises.
5. Self-Love & Financial Wellness: Reduce Stress with a Plan
Financial stress can take a toll on your well-being, but small changes can make a big difference. Automating savings, paying off high-interest debt, and building an emergency fund can provide financial confidence. We can develop a strategy tailored to your needs, helping you focus on your goals instead of worrying about money. After all, loving your finances means taking care of yourself, too!
We’re committed to helping you strengthen your financial foundation and make informed decisions that bring clarity and confidence to your future. Whether it’s fine-tuning your investment strategy, reviewing your protection plan, or optimizing tax opportunities, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Let’s schedule a time to connect and ensure you’re on track for a successful year.
Your Team at Wealth Avenue,
P.S. Just like love, financial well-being grows stronger with care and attention. If you know someone who could benefit from expert guidance in building a secure and confident financial future, we’d love the opportunity to help. We appreciate your introductions and are committed to providing the same thoughtful, personalized support to your friends, family, and colleagues. With offices in Virginia, Arizona, and California, and the convenience of virtual meetings, we’re here to help—wherever they are!
Oh, and below is an article about the cost of eggs!
Omelettes, pastries, and even mayo might crack your budget this year! With the domestic egg supply scrambled, egg-spect some shell-shocking costs until things (hopefully) hatch back to normal next year.
Got an egg-cellent pun? Shell it out! Our favorite will get a shoutout in next month’s newsletter (with your permission, of course)!
