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Discover the latest news in the finance and investing world

IRA vs 401k: Discover the Smartest Way to Invest for Retirement

Wondering whether to invest in an IRA or 401(k) after age 55? This guide breaks it down simply—so you can grow retirement savings, lower taxes, and retire confidently.

Real Tales of a Professor’s Finances: When Insurance-Based Retirement Planning Misses the Mark

Learn how one professor's retirement plan fell short using whole life insurance, IULs, and annuities. Discover better investment options with real numbers and smart advice.

Am I Okay to Retire During Times of Fear and Uncertainty? 

Uncertain about retiring? Learn how history, risk management, and smart strategies can help you retire with confidence.

A Practical Guide to Receiving an Inheritance — What to Do When You Inherit Wealth from Your Family

Inheriting a modest estate? Learn how to handle assets like homes, savings, and retirement accounts, manage taxes, and make smart decisions for your financial future.

A Baby Boomer’s Guide to Passing Down Wealth for Families

Learn how baby boomers can pass down wealth with smaller estates. Tips on avoiding probate, minimizing taxes, and keeping the process clear for heirs.

James K.'s Wake-Up Call: The Hidden Risk of Relying Too Much on Your Pension

A pension isn’t always enough. See how one professor avoided a retirement shortfall with smart financial planning.

Tenure Won’t Guarantee Retirement: Here’s How

Academic careers don’t guarantee retirement security. Discover how to plan, save, and build long-term wealth here.

What Should You Financially Focus on as You Near Retirement?

Retirement planning for Idaho university employees made simple. Discover key steps to boost savings, optimize Social Security, and secure healthcare for a smooth transition into retirement.

What Could Happen in a President’s First Year?

What happens to the stock market when a new president takes office? Looking at history, we see different outcomes—some presidents experience a strong first year, while others face declines.

Tired of Feeling Like You're Running on a Financial Treadmill? 10 Proven Strategies to Make 2025 Your Best Financial Year Yet!

Feeling stuck financially? Discover 10 proven strategies to crush debt, grow your wealth, and make 2025 your best financial year yet. Start achieving your goals today!

Is Your Money Melting? Understanding Inflation's Impact on Your Investments 

Discover how inflation affects your investments and learn strategies to protect your wealth. From stocks to real estate, see which assets thrive and which falter.

Year-End Financial Checklist: Reviewing and Optimizing Your Investments

This year-end checklist helps you assess your portfolio, realign your goals, manage tax efficiency, and ensure you're on track for financial growth in the future.

Tax-Loss Harvesting: A Simple End of Year Strategy to Save on Taxes

Tax-loss harvesting is a smart strategy that helps investors save on taxes by selling losing investments to offset gains. Learn how this simple technique can reduce your tax bill, balance your portfolio, and keep more money in your pocket at the end of the year.

Tax Deduction vs. Tax Credit: Understanding the Key Differences

Maximize your tax savings with expert insights on deductions, credits, and above-the-line options. Make informed financial decisions this tax season!

7 Idaho Tax Credit for Individuals

Discover how Idaho tax credits can reduce your tax burden. Learn about family, education, conservation, and historic preservation credits.

What is Your Retirement Nest Egg Number?

Planning your retirement nest egg is essential for financial security. Let Intermountain Wealth Management assist you in crafting a personalized strategy to meet your goals and navigate key factors like health care, lifestyle, and income sources.

Maximizing Health Benefits with Smart Investments: Integrating Health and Wealth for Financial Success

Maximize your health benefits and financial success by integrating smart investments with strategic health insurance choices, tax-advantaged accounts, and preventive care for long-term security.

Real Tales of a Professor’s Finances: Emily’s Open Enrollment

Discover how professors like Dr. Emily R. can make informed healthcare decisions during open enrollment, balancing family needs and financial savings.

Breaking Down the Most Misunderstood Health Insurance Terms

Unmask health insurance jargon like deductibles, copays, and out-of-pocket maximums. Learn how to select the right plan for your needs with expert tips from Intermountain Wealth Management.

Unlocking the Mysteries of Open Enrollment: What Every Household Needs to Know 

Learn how to make the most of open enrollment by reviewing health insurance options, comparing public and private coverage, and staying on top of important deadlines to ensure optimal benefits for the year ahead.

The Secret to Save $300-$600 On Your Home and Auto 

Learn how brokers can save you 15% to 25% on premiums by comparing rates from multiple insurers and negotiating on your behalf. Understand the differences between insurance agents and brokers, and explore real-world examples of how you can save hundreds of dollars annually.

Real Tales of a Professor's Finances: The Story of Adam C

Explore the financial journey of Adam C., a professor with scattered, underperforming retirement accounts. Learn how professional advice helped him consolidate his savings, optimize contributions, and craft a strategy to meet his retirement goals in this insightful real-life story.

The Most Important Principle to Know About Retirement: How Much Money Can I Expect to Live Off Each Month?

Learn how to effectively plan for retirement by understanding your monthly expenses, assets, and withdrawal rates. Learn strategies for extending your retirement funds and how professional financial advice can enhance your retirement readiness.

How to slash your tax bill in 2024: Learn how to potentially save $8,850 this year in taxes!

In 2024, you can significantly reduce your tax bill by contributing to retirement accounts like 401(k)s, IRAs, or SIMPLE IRAs. These contributions lower your taxable income, offering substantial tax savings. The article explains how tax brackets work, provides examples of potential savings, and offers a guide on adjusting contributions to maximize tax benefits by year-end. Consulting a financial advisor is recommended for personalized strategies to optimize your savings.

Creating an Effective Risk Management Strategy

Intermountain Wealth Management can help you create an effective risk management strategy tailored to your financial goals. Our personalized approach includes risk tolerance assessment, diversification, asset allocation, and ongoing portfolio monitoring. Protect your investments and secure your financial future with our expert guidance. Schedule a consultation today to build a robust risk management plan.

Aligning Your Investment Strategy with Your Financial Goals (4 Minute Read)

Understanding how to effectively link your investment strategy with your financial goals is key to maintaining focus and motivation on your financial journey.

Understanding Asset Allocation and Why It Matters (5-minute Read)

Discover the importance of asset allocation in building a resilient investment portfolio. Learn how to balance risk and reward through diversification and achieve your financial goals with Intermountain Wealth Management.

The Perils of a Real Estate-Centric Retirement: The 7 Inherent Risks

Discover the importance of asset allocation in building a resilient investment portfolio. Learn how to balance risk and reward through diversification and achieve your financial goals with Intermountain Wealth Management.

Diversifying Retirement Portfolios with Rental Properties: A Smart Move for Long-Term Security

Learn about diversifying your retirement portfolio with rental properties can provide steady income, potential appreciation, and tax benefits while mitigating risk. Learn the advantages of real estate investment in building a secure retirement strategy.

Is $1 Million Enough for Retirement? A Financial Advisor’s Perspective

While $1 million was once seen as a benchmark for retirement, it may not be enough in today's economy. Learn why experts recommend saving more to account for inflation, rising healthcare costs, and increased life expectancy.

Retirement Options for Idaho & Utah Professors with a PERSI/URS Account

Navigating your Public Employee Retirement System of Idaho (PERSI) or Utah Retirement Systems (URS) account is crucial as you approach retirement. Explore the different withdrawal options and retirement benefit plans available to ensure a financially secure future.

How Do Taxes Affect My Investments?

Investing your money is a smart way to grow your wealth over time, but it's crucial to understand the role taxes can have on your investment returns. We're sharing how taxes affect your investments, why it matters, and what you can do to minimize their impact.

Understanding Idaho Income Tax Credits: 8 Credits Individuals Can Claim

Idaho's tax credit system offers various opportunities for individuals to reduce their tax liabilities while simultaneously supporting specific initiatives and activities within the state.

Understanding the Basics: ETFs vs. Mutual Funds

Looking to better understand whether an ETF or Mutual Fund is best for you? We share details about both as well as the benefits of each.

7 Questions to Ask a Financial Advisor

Selecting a financial advisor could be considered one of the most impactful decisions you make. Unfortunately, not all advisors are created equal. Asking the right questions to discover values, ethics and philosophy that align with you will avoid potential headaches.

Estate Planning: Avoiding Common Mistakes to Safeguard Your Legacy

Start the estate planning process today to ensure that your wishes are carried out and your loved ones are provided for in the future.

Navigating Market Volatility: Understanding its Impact on Your Investment Portfolio

While volatility can create opportunities for profit, it also poses risks to investors' portfolios. Understanding how market volatility affects your investments is crucial for making informed decisions.

What Are Common Investment Mistakes to Avoid?

Learn about common mistakes that you can make when it comes to investing that can impact your financial goals.

What is the Difference Between Stocks and Bonds?

Stocks and bonds represent a form of investing, but they differ in a few ways.

The Stock Market and Presidential Election

We're taking a look at how the S&P 500 performed during the last 36 years of presidential elections as well as how politics impact the stock market.

Understand the new 11 Bitcoin EFTs

The SEC's recent approval of 11 new spot Bitcoin (BTC-USD) ETFs in the United States has generated significant anticipation in the market.

Can I Start Investing With a Small Amount of Money?

Investing has long been considered a path to financial growth and security, but many people often wonder if they can start investing with a small amount of money. The good news is that the world of investing has evolved, and there are options available for individuals who want to get started with smaller sums.

The Easiest and Major First Step in Your Estate Plan

In the realm of financial planning, one often overlooked yet powerful tool is the beneficiary designation. Understanding what it is and strategically utilizing it can not only simplify the distribution of assets but also play a crucial role in saving on future taxes.

What is Compound Interest and How Does It Work?

This comprehensive guide explains what compound interest is, how it works, and why it’s crucial for building wealth over time. Discover effective strategies to maximize your financial growth.

How Can You Make 2024 Your Best Financial Year

Ten strategies that can pave the way for financial success in 2024 including reducing debt, budgeting, investing, and more.

How Do I Create a Retirement Plan?

Intermountain Wealth Management of Idaho Falls shares how to create a retirement plan, why it's vital, and the steps to get started.

How Do I Choose the Right Investment Strategy For My Goals?

Choosing the right investment strategy is a personal journey that hinges on your individual goals, risk tolerance, time horizon, and financial situation. Patience, coupled with a well-thought-out strategy and professional advice, can pave the way to achieving your financial goals.

What are the Different Investment Options Available to Me?

Getting into investing can be a mix of excitement and uncertainty, especially when faced with the array of options available in the market. Learn more about which investment option is the best fit for you and your financial goals.

How Much Should I Be Saving and Investing Each Month?

Embarking on the savings and investment journey doesn’t require a vast fortune. It starts with a decision, a plan, and a small step forward.

10 Steps to A Healthier Estate Plan

Estate planning is essential for financial well-being but often gets overlooked. This guide offers straightforward strategies to help you create a solid estate plan, ensuring your assets are distributed according to your wishes while minimizing taxes and protecting your loved ones.

What Are Required Minimum Distributions

Learn more about required minimum distributions from Intermountain Wealth Management, registered investment advisors that put your best interests first located in Idaho Falls.

Year-End Tax Strategies

Explore top year-end tax strategies to optimize your returns. Uncover actionable insights to reduce liabilities and maximize deductions before the year closes.

Understanding your 401k

Unlock the essentials of your 401K with this comprehensive guide. Dive into its basics, benefits, and how it impacts your financial future. Perfect for beginners and those looking to optimize retirement savings.

Calculating Your Pension Benefit

Calculating retirement benefits can seem complex, but with a clear understanding of your retirement plan's components and formula, university professors can take charge of their financial future.

Contributing to an Account Outside of Work

Contributing to a retirement account outside of work is a proactive step towards securing a financially stable future. Learn more about planning for your individual retirement with Intermountain Wealth Management.

5 Less Known Reasons to Invest in a Retirement Account

Investing in a retirement account is like planting a garden. It takes time and effort, but the rewards are worth it in the long run. Learn more reasons for investing in a retirement account from Intermountain Wealth Management.

All In on Investing in Real Estate? 5 Things to Consider

Real estate seems to be a “trendy” investment today, just like cryptocurrency. Influencers vlog themselves either building their dream homes or buying investment properties. Let's look at the popular reasons and some potential deep-rooted motives behind investing.

S&P 500 Index – Time to Exhale

The S&P 500 Index has been trading in choppy action over the last month. The index is giving mixed signals.

Protect Yourself from the Equifax Hack

Equifax, one of the large three credit reporting companies was recently hacked. Over 143 million Americans had their personal information compromised.

Bad News for Bonds – Rising Interest Rates

After the stock market crash of 2008, the Federal Reserve, in an effort to stimulate the economy, reduced the cost of borrowing money by lowering interest rates to zero.

Me and the S&P 500 Index

With the growth of index funds, coupled with the SEC requirement to have all mutual funds compare themselves to a benchmark or index, people are focusing on benchmarks and indices instead of focusing on their own needs and objectives.

Is China Playing President Trump?

Whether you like or dislike President Trump, we can all agree that he has stirred strong emotion in the hearts of the American people. What are the concerns the president has and how might China respond?

Will the Third Shoe Drop

Today the S&P 500 Index broke above 3000 for the first time in anticipation the Federal Reserve Chairmen Jay Powell will lower interest rates in July.

Bad News is Good News?

The Federal Reserve only lowers interest rates when it wants to increase inflation, or it is concerned about slowing economic growth in the U.S. and around the world.

The Federal Reserve is Running Low on Ammunition

The Federal Reserve lowered interest rates 0.25% on July 31st. In doing so the Federal Reserve used up some of it’s ammunition for future needs.

Negative Interest Rates?

Negative interest rates refer to a scenario in which cash deposits incur a charge for storage at a bank, rather than receiving interest income.

Impeachment and the Stock Market

With the Democrats in Congress starting a formal impeachment inquiry into President Donald Trump’s phone call with the Ukrainian President, some people are wondering what effect impeachment will have on the stock market.

Is the Stock Market a predictor of Presidential Elections?

Can the stock market predict the outcome of the presidential elections? Not really, but there is some interesting data about the S&P 500 Index and the presidential elections.

Emotional or Disciplined Investment Decisions

Regardless of today’s uncertain environment, we believe the right thing to do is follow our disciplined process for making investment decisions because this too shall pass.

The Economic Ramifications of COVID-19: Insights from Experts

The possible economic consequences of the coronavirus — now called Covid-19 is a concern for everyone around the world. Here are different comments from a variety of organizations.

The Good & Bad of the New Secure Act

President Trump signed new legislation into law at the end of 2019 for the new Setting Every Community Up for Retirement Enhancement (Secure) Act, starting in 2020. Here is what it means if you have an IRA.

The Impact of Record Highs on Investment Behavior: The FOMO Phenomenon

On November 26, it was announced the Dow set its 100th record high under the Trump administration leadership. With investments climbing higher and higher, it is easy to get caught up in the emotion called the fear of missing out.

A Historical Comparison: Economic Indicators from 2019 and 2007

No one knows or can predict what will happen in the future, but it is interesting how history will often repeat itself.
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