Our Deep Rooted Thoughts

While it will not be official until mid-October, it appears that Social Security benefits will be rising by 2.8% in 2019.  This will be the largest cost-of-living adjustment since 2012. Assuming the 2.8% adjustment is implemented, those receiving a maximum SSI benefit will get an additional $21 per month bringing their payment total to $771.  Those receiving Social Security retirement income will get an extra $28 for every $1,000 they are currently receiving.  That amounts to a $700 annual increase for a retiree who is receiving $25,000 in 2018. For questions about retirement income benefits or government benefits for individuals with special needs, please contact us. ...

 Wow! The stock market just set a record for the longest bull market period in history. A bull market is defined as a period during which the market is rising without suffering a decline of 20% or more. Despite some volatility during the past decade, we have not experienced a 20% decline since 2009. In fact, the S&P 500 stock index established an all-time high on Monday, August 27th. In light of these record-setting events, we wanted to address how the recent stock market performance affects our investment philosophy. The short answer is that it does not change how we invest. The attached document summarizes the investment principles we maintain regardless of market performance. Stud ...

 We all enjoyed the investment markets in 2017. The values of investments climbed gradually throughout the year with almost no declines. In fact, 2017 was a historically calm year in terms of stock market volatility. 2018 is shaping up to be a very different year. January delivered exceptionally good performance for stock markets around the world. Bonds, conversely, had negative performance to start the year due largely to the expectations of rising interest rates. After peaking on January 26, 2018, the stock markets around the world have now given up all of their gains from earlier this year. The reversal of the market direction has not been enjoyable for investors, but it is more no ...

 While we await the 1099s that report our taxable investment income and taxable IRA distributions for 2017, I wanted to share with you our 2018 Key Numbers document that highlights all the new tax rates and details alongside the rates and numbers for 2017.  Oak Wealth Advisors hopes this will be a valuable resource for you in understanding the new Tax Cuts and Jobs Act legislation and how it may impact your planning.  We look forward to answering any questions you may have and continuing to be a resource for you. Key Tax Numbers for 2018 ...

 In 2017, the investment markets delivered better than expected returns. As we begin 2018, the prospects remain good for another year of solid investment results. Corporate profits are growing, unemployment is near all-time lows, and the recent legislation provides additional corporate stimulus in the form of lower taxes and less regulation. We would be surprised if the global stock markets do not deliver double-digit returns again in 2018. That being said, when consumer confidence rises to high levels as it has recently, the corresponding complacency can lead investors to take excessive risks. When you take excess investment risks, you increase your exposure to bigger losses when the s ...

Ever ridden in a car with worn-out shock absorbers? Every bump is jarring, every corner stomach-churning, and every red light an excuse to assume the brace position. Owning an undiversified portfolio can trigger similar reactions. ...

We wanted to update you on the first 100 days of the year at Oak Wealth Advisors. It has been a momentous period that we feel has us well positioned to deliver the best possible client service in the future. The fortune cookies that we opened late in 2016 could not have been more insightful. ...

– Better than nothing, but just barely… Regardless of whom our next President is, for 2017, Social Security recipients will be getting a .3% increase in their monthly checks.  (That is less than one-third of one percent, not three percent.) Individuals receiving SSI benefits will receive $735/month up from $733 in 2016.  The amount of earnings an individual can make before reaching substantial gainful activity is being increased from $1,130/month to $1,170/month.  The earnings levels are slightly higher for the blind. While benefits will be rising by the smallest of margins, the amount of income subject to Social Security taxation is rising from $118,500 in 2016 to $127,200 in 2017 ...