In the world of financial advising, credentials matter. They signal a level of expertise, dedication, and trustworthiness that clients can rely on when making critical decisions about their financial futures. One of the most respected designations in the industry is the Chartered Financial Analyst® (CFA®) designation, a gold standard for investment professionals. At Bill Few […]
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Year in Review and Some Investment Thoughts
Market UpdateFor two years in a row, large-capitalization US stocks, particularly stocks and indices tilted towards growth like the NASDAQ and the S&P 500, have had strong returns. The average return for the S&P 500 over many decades is around 10%. In 2023, the S&P 500 was up 26% and in 2024 it was up 25%. Using simple […]

How 401(k) Changes in 2025 Impact Your Retirement Savings
Financial Planning, Retirement PlanningUpdates to 401(k) contribution limits and rules in 2025 offer new opportunities for workers to bolster their retirement savings. Whether you’re a seasoned saver or just starting your retirement journey, understanding these changes can help you make the most of your contributions. Here’s a closer look at what’s changing and how it could affect your […]

The Value of CFP® Certification & Our Commitment to Excellence
Financial PlanningIn the financial planning world, CFP® professionals meet strict educational and ethical standards, and are dedicated to serving their clients’ best interests. At Bill Few Associates, we are incredibly proud of our team members who have earned or are working toward obtaining their CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® certifications, as it highlights their dedication to delivering exceptional […]

How to Protect Yourself from Fraud and Scams
Financial Planning, Identity ProtectionIn today’s digital age, fraud and scams are more common than ever. From phishing emails to fake investment opportunities, fraudsters use clever tactics to exploit victims. At Bill Few Associates, we want to help you protect your wealth. Below are common scams, warning signs and tips to safeguard your finances. Common Scams RELATED: Read about […]

Fall Update
Market UpdateI’ve always liked the fall season. Many people do. Goldilocks temperatures, beautiful fall foliage, crisp cool mornings and sunny, shorter days. However, it just occurred to me that I’m now in my personal fall. I turned 62 this summer. Based on actuarial lifespan estimates, I’m definitely in my fall, maybe even late fall? I’m happy and healthy, but I did not […]

Handling Long-Term Care Insurance Claims for Parents
Financial Planning, Insurance PlanningAs your parents age, the need for long-term care can become an inevitable reality. Navigating the complexities of long-term care insurance (LTCI) claims can be daunting, but with the right approach and knowledge, you can efficiently manage the process. Understanding Long-Term Care InsuranceLong-term care insurance is designed to cover services that aren’t typically included in […]

Retirement Planning in a Changing World
Financial Planning, Retirement PlanningPlanning for retirement is one of life’s most significant financial goals. However, in a rapidly changing world, the strategies that worked in the past may no longer be sufficient. A successful retirement plan must be dynamic, evolving with the times to ensure you achieve a comfortable and secure future. At Bill Few Associates, we recognize […]

Financial Planning Guide for Millennials
Financial PlanningIn a rapidly changing financial landscape, millennials encounter distinct challenges and opportunities. We understand the importance of creating a robust financial plan tailored to the specific needs and aspirations of this generation. Financial planning is not a one-size-fits-all process; it requires a personalized approach to navigate the complexities of today’s economy. Below we cover key […]

Mid-Year Update – Reversion to the Mean
Market UpdateReversion to the mean is a fancy statistical term for the tendency of data points to return to their historical average over longer periods of time. As an example, according to Google, the average June rainfall in Pittsburgh is just over four inches for the month. Could be zero, could be eight inches, but you would expect […]