Andy's Two Cents

Notes and thoughts from our director.

1. When should I start investing for retirement?

The best time to start investing for retirement is as early as possible. Thanks to compound interest, even small contributions made in your 20s can grow significantly over time. The longer your money is invested, the more time it has to grow. But it’s never too late to start!

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2. How do I start investing if I don’t have much money?

Start small! Many platforms let you invest with $100 using fractional shares or ETFs. Choose a Brokerage company to open an account, contribute to your employer’s 401(k) plan, or open a Roth IRA etc. Focus on consistency — contributing even $50/month can build wealth over time. The magic of compounding interest is amazing.

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3. What’s the difference between a Roth IRA and a traditional IRA?

Traditional IRA: Contributions are tax-deductible now; you pay taxes when you withdraw in retirement. Roth IRA: Contributions are made with after-tax dollars; withdrawals in retirement are tax-free if certain conditions are met. Younger investors often benefit more from a Roth, while those seeking a tax break now might prefer a traditional IRA.

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4. How much do I need to retire?

A common rule of thumb is to aim for about 10–12 times your annual income saved by retirement. Alternatively, plan to withdraw 4% per year of your retirement savings to maintain your lifestyle. But your personal target depends on your expenses, lifestyle goals, and healthcare needs.

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5. Is it better to pay off debt or invest for retirement?

Answer: Ideally, do both — but prioritize based on interest rates: If your debt interest (like credit cards) is high (>7%), pay that off first. If your debt is low-interest (like federal student loans), you might be better off investing, especially if you get employer-matching 401(k) contributions or you take a nice tax deduction by […]

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Wondering if our investment approach is right for you? Give us a call. We’d be happy to sit down over lunch and discuss our services in more detail.
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