retirement planning

A Quick Portfolio Quiz

Here is news that won't stop the presses: The Stock Market Meltdown of 2008 has devasted just about everyone's savings portfolio. But in addition to dramatically reducing the amount of money you have, it may have shifted the percentage of money you have in various asset classes. (For example, the percentage of your holdings in bonds and cash are probably greater than they were, given how far stocks have fallen.) More…

Which Side of the Economic Debate are You On?

It isn’t often that I have a direct connection to the news (other than reporting it.) Yesterday was an exception. While sitting on a plane, I had the chance to read about two of my former employers who are caught up in the economic downturn. One is a hopeful story, at least as far as the economy is concern. The other is not. Let’s begin with the bad news. “The Star-Ledger of Newark plans 40% cut” read one headline outlining, in matter of fact fashion that the largest newspaper in N.J.—and the place that had given me first job—had fallen on hard times and four of 10 people were being let go. More…

Sometimes it is Good to be an Ostrich

If you are convinced your retirement money--and your other funds devoted to your long term goals--are allocated correctly, here's a suggestion: Don't look at the value of those accounts until sometime next year. Otherwise, the relentless drops in the market could make you do something you will regret. I don't plan to check the value of my retirement accounts until December 31 of this year. More…