Category Archives: Selecting an Investment Advisor

401(k) Plan Litigation, 401(k) Plans, Active Versus Passive Management, Defined Contribution Plans, Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, ERISA, Fiduciary Advisor, Non-Fiduciary Advisor, Pensions, Roth vs. Traditional Contributions, Selecting a 401(k) Plan Investment Advisor, Selecting an Investment Advisor

Shield Your 401(k) Plan: 5 Essential Strategies to Prevent Fiduciary Lawsuits

Posted on by Jennifer Lambert
12
Apr

The landscape for 401(k) plan sponsors has become increasingly challenging. With over 200 ERISA class-action lawsuits filed since 2020, fiduciary litigation targeting 401(k) plans is surging, creating unprecedented legal exposure. High-profile cases, even against well-respected entities like NYU and Fidelity, highlight a stark reality: even the most well-intentioned fiduciaries can face devastating personal liability for participant losses.

But here’s the good news: you’re not powerless. By implementing these five evidence-backed strategies, you can significantly shield your plan from costly litigation while simultaneously strengthening outcomes for your participants.

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401(k) Loans, College Loans, Debt Repayment Versus Savings, High Interest Debt, Low Interest Debt, Selecting a Private Wealth Investment Advisor, Selecting an Investment Advisor, Student Loans

Savings vs. Debt: How to Master Your Money Priorities

Posted on by Matthew Rice
29
Mar

 

Balancing savings, investing, and debt repayment is one of the most common—and arguably most important—financial decisions individuals face. It’s a dance between present security and future prosperity, and the “right” steps aren’t always obvious. While your unique financial situation will dictate your specific path, several guiding principles can illuminate the way and help you make informed choices.

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Alternative Investments, Chicago Area Investment Advisor, Chicago Area Private Wealth, Family Office, Fiduciary Advisor, Hedge Fund Strategies, Hedge Funds, Hinsdale Investment Advisor, Private Equity, Private Wealth, Real Assets Investing, Selecting a Family Office Investment Advisor, Selecting an Investment Advisor, Selling a Business, Wealth Management, Western Chicago Suburbs Investment Advisor

From Business Owner to Investor: Charting Your Course After a Business Sale

Posted on by Jennifer Lambert
16
Mar

 

Selling your business is a monumental achievement, marking the culmination of years of hard work and dedication. But as one chapter closes, another exciting, albeit complex, one begins: transitioning from the steady income of an active business to living off the total return of an investment portfolio. This shift blends excitement, uncertainty, and a new set of financial considerations.

Here’s what every entrepreneur should consider to ensure a smooth and successful journey from business owner to thriving investor.

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Chicago Area Investment Advisor, Chicago Area Private Wealth, Fiduciary Advisor, Hinsdale Investment Advisor, Low Interest Debt, Private Wealth, Selecting a Family Office Investment Advisor, Selecting an Investment Advisor, Wealth Management, Western Chicago Suburbs Investment Advisor

Selecting a Chicago Area Financial Advisor

Posted on by Jennifer Lambert
14
Mar

Navigating today’s complex financial landscape can feel overwhelming for many—whether you’re an entrepreneur, executive, professional, retiree, or simply someone focused on building and protecting your family’s financial future. Regardless of your background or stage in life, having a personal financial strategy or wealth management plan that reflects your unique situation and goals is essential to enhancing, protecting, and perhaps even eventually passing on your wealth to children, grandchildren, or philanthropic priorities with confidence.

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Medicare Advantage, Selecting a Family Office Investment Advisor, Selecting a Private Wealth Investment Advisor, Selecting an Investment Advisor, Social Security, Social Security claiming strategy, Traditional Medicare, Traditional Medicare vs. Medicare Advantage

A Guide to Smart Social Security Claiming Strategies

Posted on by Jennifer Lambert
12
Mar

 

For many of us, Social Security isn’t just a government program; it’s a cornerstone of our retirement dreams. But here’s the kicker: the timing and method you choose to claim those benefits can dramatically shape your financial landscape for decades to come. It’s not a one-size-fits-all decision, and getting it right is crucial for a secure and comfortable retirement.

While your Social Security claiming strategy is distinct from your Medicare enrollment choices (Original Medicare versus Medicare Advantage, for example), the thought process behind both is remarkably similar. In both cases, you’re weighing your personal circumstances, future needs, and financial goals to make a long-term decision. Let’s delve into the primary considerations that should guide your Social Security claiming strategy.

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IRA Contributions, Roth Contributions, Roth IRA Conversion, Roth vs. Traditional Contributions, Selecting a Family Office Investment Advisor, Selecting a Private Wealth Investment Advisor, Selecting an Investment Advisor, Tax-Loss Harvesting, Traditional Contributions, Wealth Management

How to Blend After-Tax, Roth, and Traditional Qualified Accounts to Optimize After-Tax Investment Returns

Posted on by Jennifer Lambert
07
Mar

 

Blending after-tax (taxable), Roth, and traditional qualified accounts in an investment strategy is essential for optimizing total after-tax returns. Each account type offers unique tax advantages, and combining them strategically—through asset location and tax diversification—can significantly enhance your portfolio’s efficiency and flexibility.

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Global Stock Market Diversification, International Diversification, Selecting an Investment Advisor

International Equity Diversification: Weighing the Global Opportunities and Challenges

Posted on by Jennifer Lambert
28
Feb

For U.S.-based investors, the world of international equity diversification — stepping beyond domestic borders to invest in global stocks and other equity assets — often sparks a lively debate. In recent years, the spotlight has firmly been on the U.S. market’s remarkable outperformance, leading many to question the very premise of looking abroad. Yet, seasoned financial minds consistently point to the long-term rationale for a global approach: managing risk, seizing wider opportunities, and acknowledging the fundamental unpredictability of what tomorrow’s market leaders will be.

Let’s dive into the core arguments, weighing the compelling benefits against the legitimate concerns, striving for a balanced perspective on this crucial investment strategy.

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Cash Balance Plans, Defined Benefit Plans, Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, ERISA, Fiduciary Advisor, Non-Fiduciary Advisor, Pensions, Selecting a Pension Plan Investment Advisor, Selecting an Investment Advisor

Cash Balance Plans: The Hybrid Solution Powering Retirement and Tax Savings

Posted on by Jennifer Lambert
20
Feb

 

The world of retirement planning is constantly evolving, and for business owners and high-earning professionals, the quest for strategies that maximize savings, slash taxes, and offer robust flexibility is more critical than ever. If you’ve been searching for a game-changer, allow us to introduce you to the cash balance plan – a powerful, yet often overlooked, retirement vehicle that masterfully blends the best features of traditional pensions and modern 401(k)s.

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Alternative Investments, Chicago Area Investment Advisor, Family Office, Fiduciary Advisor, Hedge Fund Strategies, Hedge Funds, Private Equity, Private Wealth, Selecting a Family Office Investment Advisor, Selecting a Private Wealth Investment Advisor, Selecting an Investment Advisor, Selling a Business, Wealth Management

Selling Your Small Business: A Roadmap to a Successful Exit

Posted on by Jennifer Lambert
17
Feb

 

Selling the business you’ve poured your heart and soul into is a monumental decision. It’s a moment that can redefine your financial future, secure your legacy, and open doors to new adventures. Yet, it’s also a complex journey, fraught with potential pitfalls if not navigated carefully.

Whether you’re dreaming of retirement, eyeing a new entrepreneurial challenge, or adapting to changing life circumstances, preparing your business for sale demands strategic thought, meticulous planning, and flawless execution. This guide is designed to walk you through the essential considerations every small business owner should weigh before putting their cherished venture on the market.

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Alternative Investments, Bitcoin, Cryptocurrencies, Endowments, Family Office, Foundations, Hedge Fund Strategies, Hedge Funds, Liquid Alternatives, Nonprofits, Pensions, Selecting an Investment Advisor

Hedge Funds Through 2025: Evolution, Growth, and Market Dynamics – A Deep Dive

Posted on by Jennifer Lambert
14
Feb

The hedge fund industry has undergone significant transformation, experiencing unprecedented growth, evolving strategies, and adapting to new market realities. Global hedge fund assets have surged to record levels approaching $4.5 trillion by the end of 2024, representing more than a doubling of industry assets from the $2 trillion managed in 2010. This expansion reflects the industry’s resilience through multiple market cycles, technological advancement, and evolving investor preferences for diversified, risk-adjusted returns.

University endowments have historically allocated significant assets to hedge funds. By fiscal year 2024, the average endowment had 16.1 percent of its assets invested in marketable alternatives, a category that includes hedge funds (Source: 2024 NACUBO-Commonfund Study of Endowments). In part due to the well-publicized success of some large university endowments, smaller endowments, foundations, museums, libraries, healthcare organizations, and other nonprofit institutions have sought similar investment approaches. While effective hedge fund investing can help endowment and foundation investors meet investment objectives, it also brings specialized risks and challenges that must be diligently managed.

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