Life has a way of throwing curveballs when you least expect it—a car repair, a medical bill, or even a sudden job loss. At SGL Financial in Buffalo Grove, IL, we’ve seen firsthand how an emergency fund can be your financial lifeline when you experience the unexpected.  With over 30 years of experience, our team of fiduciary financial advisors in Buffalo Grove can assist you in constructing a financial plan that includes creating an emergency fund to ensure you are […]

One thing in life is certain…uncertainty! As an investor in the stock and bond markets, constant change can be your greatest challenge or, viewed differently, as a strategic opportunity if you make informed, objective decisions. Market volatility can also feel like a rollercoaster you didn’t sign up for. One day, your portfolio is soaring; the next, it’s plummeting, leaving you wondering how to safeguard your hard-earned wealth over longer periods. Our Buffalo Grove CFP® professionals understand the intricacies of market […]

Cryptocurrency has been one of the most talked-about topics in the financial world over the past decade. With headlines boasting of overnight millionaires and disruptive technology, it’s no wonder people are curious about diving into this digital frontier.  But before you transfer some of your hard-earned assets into Bitcoin, Ethereum, or other digital assets, it’s crucial to understand what cryptocurrency is and isn’t. Cryptocurrency investing can feel exciting but comes with new risks, complexities, and opportunities.  SGL Tip: Never invest […]

One of the most popular New Year’s resolutions is to improve your financial health during the next calendar year. The New Year symbolizes a fresh start, encouraging reflection on past financial behaviors and setting new goals for your financial future. Long-term financial objectives like home ownership, education funding, or retirement planning require ongoing management, making early in the New Year an ideal time to reassess your progress and update your current plan.  If one of your resolutions is to gain […]

In today’s blog, we’ll explore the differences between choosing a robo-advisor or a human financial advisor to assist in managing your wealth. There are many factors to consider, and we’ll explore several of them in more detail. One way of thinking about differences is to consider it a decision between algorithms and personalization. Each option has unique strengths and some limitations that suit different needs and preferences. Understanding how they compare in terms of models, flexibility, cost, and communication can […]

Technology is changing the world around us. From rocket boosters being recaptured from space to self-driving cars and the explosion of AI, this transformation also plays a pivotal role in helping individuals and families manage, grow, and protect their wealth.  “Fintech,” a term that merges “financial” and “technology,” is transforming how financial advisors in Buffalo Grove—and across the country—provide a higher level of service to their clients.  At SGL Financial, these advancements provide our Buffalo Grove CFP® professionals with additional […]

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 […]