In the Short-Run, the Market Is a Voting Machine, But in the Long-Run, the Market Is a Weighing Machine” – Warren Buffett
Looking Back, Moving Forward
As we close out 2024, it’s a time for both reflection and preparation. This year brought economic shifts, market fluctuations, and new opportunities for financial growth. It was also a year of lessons—some learned from challenges, others from moments of success.
December isn’t just about finishing strong; it’s also about setting the tone for a successful 2025. In this edition, we’ll focus on financial strategies to carry momentum into the new year, explore key themes to prepare for in 2025, and discuss key resolutions for your financial health.
In This Month’s Edition
Reflecting on 2024: Lessons and Wins
Looking Ahead to 2025: Key Themes to Watch
Setting Financial Resolutions for 2025
The Finish
Reflecting on 2024: Lessons and Wins
2024 brought its fair share of surprises and challenges, but it also provided an opportunity to grow and adapt. Take a moment to consider:
What worked well this year? Did you meet your savings or investment goals? Did you successfully navigate market volatility or take advantage of opportunities?
What could be improved? Were there areas where you felt unprepared or decisions you’d approach differently in hindsight?
Key reflection points to consider:
Investment Performance: How did your portfolio perform, and does it align with your risk tolerance and long-term objectives?
Tax Strategy: Did you optimize your tax situation, or are there opportunities to improve for next year?
Spending Habits: Did your budgeting strategy align with your goals, or are there adjustments to be made?
Understanding these areas will help you refine your approach for the new year.
Looking Ahead to 2025: Key Themes to Watch
As we approach the new year, here are some trends and developments to keep an eye on:
Tax Law Changes:
The potential sunset of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act in 2026 makes 2025 a critical year for tax planning. Start thinking ahead about Roth conversions and estate planning adjustments.
Economic Shifts:
Interest rates, inflation, and market trends will continue to shape investment strategies. Staying diversified and flexible will be key.
Retirement Planning Evolution:
New tools, resources, and strategies are emerging to help retirees balance income needs with market risks.
By staying informed and proactive, you’ll be well-positioned to navigate the changes and opportunities that 2025 may bring.
Setting Financial Resolutions for 2025
Financial resolutions can serve as a roadmap for achieving your goals. Here are some actionable resolutions to consider:
Increase Savings Contributions:
Plan to increase contributions to retirement accounts or build an emergency fund. Even a 1–2% increase in savings can make a big impact over time.
Diversify Your Investments:
Revisit your portfolio to ensure it’s well-diversified and aligned with your goals.
Create or Update Your Estate Plan:
If you don’t already have a will, trust, or powers of attorney, make 2025 the year to establish one. If you do, review it to ensure it still reflects your wishes.
Improve Financial Literacy:
Commit to learning more about personal finance or investing. Read a new book, attend a webinar, or set up time with your advisor to deepen your understanding.
Plan a Mid-Year Check-In:
Schedule a mid-year review of your finances to stay on track and adjust as needed.
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Sounding Board Consultation
As a service to our clients, we offer your friends and family a no-obligation Sounding Board Consultation. This 30-minute session allows them to ask questions and receive feedback about their current financial plan or any other financial topics they're concerned about.
-Lamont Brown, CFP®
The Finish
The holiday season is a wonderful time to celebrate accomplishments and look ahead with optimism. As you reflect on 2024, remember that financial planning is not about perfection but about progress. Every step you’ve taken, no matter how small, moves you closer to your goals.
Looking ahead, let’s make 2025 a year of purpose and proactive planning. Together, we’ll navigate opportunities, overcome challenges, and continue building a future that reflects your values and aspirations.
Thank you for trusting me to be part of your financial journey. Wishing you and your loved ones a joyful holiday season and a prosperous new year!
Warm regards, Lamont Brown, CFP®, AIF®, MBA Owner/Wealth Manager
This newsletter is provided for informational and educational purposes only and is meant to be general in nature. The views expressed do not take into account any individual personal, financial, or tax considerations. As such, the information contained herein is not intended to be personal legal, investment or tax advice or a solicitation or recommendation to engage in any particular planning or investment strategy. Although we strive to provide accurate and timely information, there can be guarantee that such information is accurate as of the date it is received or that it will continue to be accurate in the future. You should note that the materials are provided “as is” without any express or implied warranties. Opinions are based on certain assumptions but there is no assurance that opinion or forward-looking statement will materialize. Tax laws and regulations are complex and are subject to change at any time. No one should act upon any information contained herein without appropriate professional guidance from their financial, legal or tax advisor. Investing involves risk, including the potential loss of principal, and there can be no guarantee that any investing strategy will be successful. Please consult with youradvisor prior to making any investment related decisions to fully understand the risks.
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Investment advice offered through Mariner Independent Advisor Network, LLC, a registered investment adviser. ALNA Financial Group, LLC and Mariner Independent Advisor Network, LLC are separate entities.
