Riverside Financial Group, LLC

Your Advisor Evaluates the Markets—You Should Evaluate Your Advisor Did you know that investment fees can quietly erode your portfolio’s returns—especially in more conservative, lower-growth strategies? Even a seemingly small 1.25% advisory fee can have a significant impact on long-term returns due to reduced compounding potential. Some investors may feel hesitant to ask questions about fees, but understanding these costs is key to making informed decisions. Here are five questions every investor should ask their financial advisor: 1?? “What are all the fees associated with my account?” (Including advisory fees, transaction costs, and hidden expenses.) 2?? “Are there alternative pricing structures available?” (Some firms, like ours, offer flexible payment options.) 3?? “How do these fees compare to industry standards?” (Do your due diligence—fees should be evaluated in the context of the services and value provided.) 4?? “Are there ways to reduce or eliminate certain fees?” (For example, some accounts waive fees with a minimum balance.) 5?? “What value am I receiving in return?” (Advisors should be able to justify their cost with clear benefits.) At Riverside Financial Group, LLC, we prioritize transparency and offer competitive fee structures and alternative payment options designed with clients in mind. If you haven’t had this conversation with your advisor yet, now is the time. Your returns depend on it. #Investing #FinancialPlanning #WealthManagement #FeeTransparency #KnowYourAdvisor

Semiconductor Tensions & The Global Investment Shift The semiconductor industry is entering a new phase of geopolitical pressure. The Trump administration is expanding U.S. chip restrictions on China and urging Japan and the Netherlands to enforce tighter controls on companies like Tokyo Electron and ASML. These moves aim to curb China’s AI and military advancements, but the broader investment implications are far-reaching. Market Volatility & Realignment ?? Japanese chip stocks reacted immediately — Tokyo Electron dropped 4.9% after Bloomberg’s report. ?? Nvidia, ASML, and Applied Materials may see increased regulatory scrutiny. ?? China is actively finding alternative supply routes, including third-party acquisitions through Singapore. The Investment Opportunity: A Global Shift in AI & Semiconductors While restrictions create short-term uncertainty, they also redirect capital and supply chains. AI and semiconductor investments are now shifting to: ? Southeast Asia & India – Emerging as key players in semiconductor manufacturing and data centers. ? The Middle East – Rapidly increasing AI infrastructure investments. ? U.S. & European Markets – Likely beneficiaries of restructured supply chains and foreign investment flows. Investors should pay close attention to where capital is moving next. The semiconductor war isn’t just about restrictions—it’s about who will control the next wave of AI-driven growth. How are you adjusting your strategy in response to these shifts? Let’s discuss. #Investing #Semiconductors #AI #Geopolitics #MarketTrends This post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice. Source: “Trump Team Seeks to Toughen Biden’s Chip Controls Over China” by Mackenzie Hawkins, Cagan Koc, and Jenny Leonard, Bloomberg, February 25, 2025.

Pay Yourself First: A Simple, Effective Way to Build Wealth One of the easiest ways to grow your savings is by paying yourself first—sometimes called "reverse budgeting." Instead of saving whatever is left after expenses, you prioritize saving first, then use the remainder for spending. This simple shift can help you work toward your financial goals. Here’s how to get started: ? Calculate Your Take-Home Income – Know what you’re earning after taxes and deductions. ? Decide How Much to Save – A common rule is 10-20% of your income, but this varies based on your goals and expenses. ? Automate Your Savings – Set up automatic transfers so money moves into savings before you even touch it. ? Cover Your Expenses with What’s Left – Allocate your remaining funds for housing, food, entertainment, and other essentials. ? Review & Adjust Regularly – Check in every 6 months to fine-tune your contributions and align with evolving goals. By consistently paying yourself first, you build a habit that may contribute to greater financial security and help you work toward long-term wealth accumulation. If you're interested in learning how this strategy could work for you, we can provide guidance tailored to your financial situation. #FinancialPlanning #SmartSaving #PayYourselfFirst #WealthBuilding #BudgetingTips #MoneyManagement

Navigating Financial Storms with Confidence Uncertain markets can feel like stormy seas, but a strong financial plan acts as your lighthouse, guiding you through turbulent times. Financial planning isn’t about avoiding every rough patch—it’s about having a strategy that keeps you on course. At Riverside Financial Group, LLC, we tailor financial plans to help you stay steady, even when the headlines are full of uncertainty. A great advisor doesn’t just hand you a map; they coach you through the storm, helping you adjust your sails when needed. If your current plan leaves you feeling adrift, let’s talk about how we can help you navigate toward your financial goals with confidence. #FinancialPlanning #MarketVolatility #WealthManagement #NavigatingUncertainty #FinancialConfidence #InvestmentStrategy

The Value of Financial Planning as a Couple Financial planning is about more than numbers - it’s about aligning your money with the life you want to create. For couples, this means collaborating to set shared goals, address challenges, and build a roadmap that reflects both perspectives. Whether you’re combining finances for the first time or preparing for retirement, planning as a team fosters stronger communication, reduces financial stress, and ensures you’re working toward a future you both envision. By prioritizing open dialogue and involving both partners in the process, financial planning becomes a truly collaborative effort. It’s an opportunity to address big-picture goals like retirement, saving for a home, or funding your children’s education while also creating a plan for day-to-day spending. Couples who plan together are better prepared to navigate life’s uncertainties and celebrate their achievements with confidence. The journey is always smoother when you’re on the same page - and a trusted financial advisor can help guide you every step of the way. #FinancialPlanning #CouplesFinance #RetirementPlanning #FamilyWealth #FinancialFreedom #MoneyGoals

In a recent conversation with one of our advisors, we asked him: “What’s the one thing you wish more people knew about financial security?” Here’s what he shared: "If there’s one thing we’ve learned, it’s that financial security isn’t just about how much money you have—it’s about having a plan. Many people assume financial security means hitting a certain number in their bank account or portfolio. While that’s part of it, true security comes from understanding your goals and taking consistent steps to achieve them." Here are three things I wish more people knew: 1?? A budget is freedom, not a restriction. Tracking your income and spending gives you the power to prioritize what truly matters. 2?? An emergency fund is your best friend. It’s not glamorous, but having savings set aside reduces stress and helps you handle life’s surprises. 3?? Investing consistently is key. Whether it’s a Roth IRA, a 401(k), or a brokerage account, making regular contributions over time can help you stay on track toward building wealth, even as markets fluctuate. Financial security looks different for everyone. Whether you’re just getting started or refining an existing plan, what matters most is taking that next step." What does financial security mean to you? We’d love to hear your perspective. #FinancialFreedom #WealthPlanning #MoneyManagement #InvestingTips #FinancialWellness

FOMO and Fundamentals: Insights into the Latest Market Rally Josh Schafer’s recent article featured in Yahoo Finance dives into the unexpected rise in stocks, fueled by investor FOMO and enthusiasm for policies under the new administration. Here are three key takeaways: 1?? Crypto and AI Booms: Bitcoin hit new highs, with crypto-related stocks like Coinbase up 70% in just five days. Meanwhile, stocks in AI (e.g., Palantir) and Tesla also saw significant spikes, reflecting speculative optimism across sectors. 2?? Active Manager Pressure: Wall Street strategists are boosting year-end targets as cash-heavy portfolios lag behind the S&P 500's impressive 26% YTD growth. This "chase" among managers signals mounting pressure to outperform. 3?? Valuations Are High – And Expected to Climb Higher: With the S&P 500 trading at historically high valuations, strategists like Evercore's Julian Emanuel predict that “expensive could get more expensive,” driven by policies and investor confidence. Analysis: Schafer argues that high valuations may persist, backed by a surge of “animal spirits” in the market. Strategists see potential growth despite high prices, with some even predicting a possible melt-up. This exuberance, however, could also set the stage for volatility, making vigilance key for investors. The Importance of Caution: With speculative fervor running high, thoughtful, personalized financial planning can help mitigate risks while taking advantage of strategic opportunities. RFG’s approach centers on guiding clients through market shifts with confidence and clarity. ?? Want to explore a disciplined approach to market participation? Reach out to our team at Riverside Financial Group, LLC to discuss your strategy today. #MarketTrends #InvestmentStrategy #FinancialPlanning #StockMarketInsights #InvestorEducation https://lnkd.in/ePUNDQRk

Year-End Tip: Understand Capital Gain Distributions and Their Tax Impact It’s the time of year to review potential Capital Gain Distributions from mutual fund holdings in taxable accounts. Mutual funds distribute capital gains when profits are realized from selling securities in their portfolios. While the distribution won’t change the value of your holding if shares are reinvested, it is taxable and may impact your overall tax liability. These distributions can arise from long-term holdings or short-term sales and are typically distributed at the end of the fiscal year. Shareholders receive these gains as cash or reinvested shares, depending on their preference. The tax impact of these distributions may vary based on individual circumstances, so it’s wise to consult with a financial or tax advisor to determine the right course of action. Mutual fund companies assist by publishing Estimated Capital Gain Distributions, along with the record, ex-dividend, and payable dates. Keeping abreast of these can be time-consuming, but it is a valuable end-of-year exercise that helps investors understand how these distributions could impact their tax obligations. #InvestmentPlanning #TaxSmartInvesting #EndOfYearFinancialTips #MutualFunds #FinancialAwareness

?? Join Us Tonight for RFG’s Knowledge Series: Health Care Costs in Retirement ?? Curious about managing health care costs in retirement? Join us for tonight's Knowledge Series where we’ll explore the benefits of HSAs and Roth IRAs to help you prepare for these essential expenses. ??? Date: Tonight ?? Time: 7:00 PM (ET) ?? Location: Zoom (DM or email us for the link) Don’t miss this valuable discussion! Whether you’re planning ahead or already retired, learning how these tools can support your retirement can make a big difference. Contact us for the Zoom link and secure your spot! #KnowledgeSeries #RetirementPlanning #HSAs #RothIRA #HealthCareCosts #FinancialWellness #RFGInsights

As Halloween approaches, you might hear more about the "Sell in May and Go Away" approach to investing—an idea based on the Halloween Indicator’s historical claims of stronger winter market performance. What is the Halloween Indicator? This seasonal strategy suggests stock market performance is generally stronger from November through April and weaker from May to October. A seminal study by Bouman and Jacobsen (2002) found evidence supporting this pattern, observing better returns in the winter months across 37 countries. Is it Still Relevant? Recent discussions in finance, including insights from Mark Hulbert (2023), indicate that while seasonal effects, including the Halloween Indicator, have been observed, their significance may be limited. Notably, the indicator tends to show significant results primarily in midterm election years, with limited applicability in non-midterm years. Factors such as increased market efficiency and political uncertainty may play a crucial role in this phenomenon. Considerations for Investors: While the Halloween Indicator offers an intriguing historical trend, relying on it for investment decisions comes with risks. Market timing can lead to missed opportunities or losses, often influenced by emotional reactions to market sentiment. A more robust approach may be dollar-cost averaging (DCA), which involves consistently investing a fixed amount at regular intervals. This strategy helps mitigate the impact of market volatility, promoting disciplined investing and potentially leading to better long-term outcomes. Key Takeaway: Investors should be cautious when considering seasonal strategies like the Halloween Indicator. A balanced approach, focusing on disciplined investing methods like DCA, may be more effective in navigating market fluctuations. #MarketTrends #HalloweenIndicator #InvestmentStrategy #BehavioralFinance #DollarCostAveraging References: Bouman, S., & Jacobsen, B. (2002). The Halloween indicator, "Sell in May and Go Away": Another puzzle. American Economic Review. Hulbert, M. (2023). Why the ‘Halloween Indicator’ could trick stock investors this year. MarketWatch.