Pleasant Street Wealth Advisors

Intra-year stock market drawdowns are common, with nearly all years experiencing declines of at least 5%. Yet, historically, the S&P 500 has finished the year with gains about 73% of the time. As Morgan Housel reminds us, "Volatility is the price of admission. The prize inside are superior long-term returns. You have to pay the price to get the returns." Let's keep perspective and stay focused on our long-term goals! Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below!

What role does your home play in your overall personal finances? It’s a buyer’s market these days, which means homes are selling for under their asking price and are taking a longer time to sell.

?? Here’s a Quick Heads-Up for Your 2024 and 2025 IRA Contributions! ?? ?? You know how life gets busy, and we all tend to push things to the last minute, right? Well, when it comes to your financial planning, there's no time like the present! ?? **2024 IRA Contributions:** - Deadline: April 15, 2025 ?? **2025 IRA Contributions:** - Deadline: April 15, 2026 Now, let's break down some key points to help you navigate these waters: ?? **Maximize Your Contributions:** - For 2025, if you're under 50, stash away up to $7,000. - Hit the big 5-0? Good news, you’ve earned a little extra room! Your limit is $8,000. - The early bird catches the worm! Start as soon as January 1 each year. ?? **Why Bother Contributing Early?** It’s simple: The more time your money spends in the market, the greater the growth potential. It's like giving your investments a head start in the financial marathon! ?? **Special Note for SEP IRA Owners:** - Typically, deadlines align with those highlighted above. - Filed for a tax extension? You get a bit of breathing room until the extension date, usually October 15. Are you still tempted to procrastinate? Remember, planning now ensures a smoother sail toward a secure financial future. Ready to kick-start this journey? Don’t let the final countdown stress you out—mark those calendars and start acting today! What will you do today to secure tomorrow? Share your thoughts, tag a friend who needs this reminder, or drop a note if you’ve already set your plan in motion! Let’s conquer those financial goals together!

"If you mix your politics with your investment decisions, you're making a big mistake," said entrepreneur Warren Buffett, who knows a thing or two about investing. These are words to live by following a contentious 2024 election cycle.

News that a Chinese artificial intelligence (AI) firm appears to have developed a competitive AI model that performs as well as its Western counterparts at a fraction of the cost put pressure on AI stocks. But is this truly a “black swan” event or just another development in the fast-moving world of AI?

In 2024, individual investors again lagged the S&P 500. We all know why–fear, greed, and overconfidence can cloud judgment and lead to poor decision-making and bad returns. Creating an investing strategy may help.

In 2024, we all experienced inflation in different ways. Some felt it at the grocery store, others while traveling, or when dining out. But I would argue that the inflation story is mostly positive at this point. The overall trend is lower, which has made the Fed comfortable enough to begin lowering short-term interest rates.

?? Just Welcomed a Newbie in 2024? Time to Secure Their Future! ?? Bringing a new life into the world is thrilling! Now, have you considered a 529 college savings plan? Here's why it should be on your radar: - Tax benefits that make saving easier - Flexibility for your child's future educational needs - Harnessing the power of compound growth As both a financial advisor and a dad, I know firsthand how starting early can transform your child's opportunities. Consistent, even small contributions add up over time. Curious about how to fit a 529 into your financial goals? I'm here to help you pave the way. What strategies do you use to secure your kids' future? Let's exchange ideas! ??

What cities in the U.S. have the most millionaires? According to a report from Henley & Partners based on data through 2023, here are your top 5 cities! 1?? New York City: 349,500 millionaires, 60 billionaires! ?? 2?? Bay Area: 305,700 millionaires, 68 billionaires! ?? 3?? Los Angeles: 212,100 millionaires, 43 billionaires! ?? 4?? Chicago: 120,500 millionaires, 24 billionaires! ??? 5?? Houston: 90,900 millionaires, 18 billionaires! ?? But here's the kicker: We're seeing a "millionaire remix." ?? These areas saw explosive growth in the millionaire population from 2013 to 2023: ?? Austin: 110% increase ?? Miami: 78% increase ?? Dallas & Washington D.C.: Both saw a 75% increase Why should you care? 1?? Shifting wealth patterns can impact local economies and real estate markets 2?? Opportunities might be emerging in unexpected places (Hello, Austin!) #WealthTrends #FinancialStrategies

Today we gather with loved ones and reflect on the things we’re most grateful for. From the health of our loved ones to the support of our families, friends, and colleagues, there’s so much to be thankful for. As we look back on the year, we’re grateful to our clients for letting us be part of their financial journeys. Here’s to a future filled with hope and prosperity for all. From our families to yours, we wish you a very Happy Thanksgiving.