As you accumulate wealth, one of the most common questions is whether to manage your investments or work with a financial advisor. In today’s blog, we’ll explore the pros and cons of each approach and highlight considerations as your wealth grows. Do-it-yourself (DIY) investing has become increasingly popular with the rise of online brokerage platforms, easy access to information, and the ability to trade with minimal fees. Many people find the idea of managing their own money empowering. However, it’s […]

If you will be retiring in the next five to ten years, you should look for ways to improve your financial well-being during your final working years. Imagine retiring without a comprehensive plan that will help you navigate managing the wealth that will support your lifestyle and financial security for the next 30 years or more. This is where financial health and well-being will play a major role in the success of your retirement. Financial health isn’t solely about having […]

“The best time to start planning was yesterday; the next best time is today; tomorrow is not a viable alternative.” This saying explains the value of proactive planning, especially when identifying your financial goals for retirement. Comprehensive financial planning is critical for sustainable retirements that may last 30 years or more. Lifespans are increasing, families are changing, securities markets fluctuate, and costs continue to increase—in particular, healthcare. Today is a good time to review the key provisions of your current […]

How to Avoid the Risks of Aimless Wealth Management For anyone serious about preserving and growing their financial well-being, goal-setting isn’t optional—it’s essential. Yet, many overlook it, especially those who feel financially comfortable. It’s easy to believe that having a high net worth, a substantial income, or current savings offers enough security to forego detailed planning for achieving long-term financial goals  But this assumption leaves major gaps that could erode wealth, limit financial flexibility, or prevent you from fully enjoying […]

Managing your finances, especially as you plan for retirement, sometimes feels like a balancing act. We frequently face overwhelming decisions, from saving strategies to spending habits, and there is no one answer. Plus, your emotions and values can play into your financial choices, complicating matters even more. This is where mindful spending comes into play—it’s all about aligning your financial realities with what truly matters to you. For many people, spending habits are driven more by emotions than logic. The […]

Have you ever experienced some form of financial stress, such as mounting bills, unexpected expenses, a lost job, or uncertain income? You’re not alone. The good news is that there are tactics you can employ with a Buffalo Grove financial professional during National Financial Planning Month, which occurs each October.  Financial stress can often feel all-consuming at times with no end in sight. This type of stress can also carry over into other areas of life, which can be a […]

Think of long-term financial planning for your family like planting a tree. At first, it may seem small and insignificant, but with time, care, and attention, it grows strong and provides shade, beauty, and fruit for future generations. Without this early and sustained effort, your family may not have the foundation to weather life’s storms and enjoy what you have worked so hard to build. Asking the right questions is crucial when planning your financial future. For example, identifying your […]

As a grandparent, you naturally want to support your grandkids’ education. You want to see them succeed and know they’ll go on to live happy, productive lives with their children and grandchildren. You also want to be sure your multi-generational generosity doesn’t impact your financial goals and retirement savings later in life when you need it the most. Here at SGL Financial, our retirement planning and CFP® professionals in Buffalo Grove understand the complexities of this balancing act and are […]

Saving for retirement is one of the most important financial activities you can do for you and your spouse. This importance may even carry over to your children because you do not want to depend on them late in life. The more you and your partner/spouse can save toward retirement, the better the odds that you can live the independent life you’ve dreamed about as you plan for your retirement years.  If you and your partner/spouse are both employed, two […]