The Woodward Financial Advisors Blog

With the spring semester winding down, we wanted to share some reminders and information about 529 plans and how you can get the most out of your college savings plan!

There are many reasons to love spring - the temperatures are warming, the flowers are blooming, and the daylight is getting a bit longer each day. Oh yeah, and college basketball's March Madness is in full display (especially here in Woodward's home office on Tobacco Road where the Triangle area of North Carolina has three teams still competing in the Sweet 16)! Speaking of basketball, we think you'll enjoy this timely piece by the CEO of Dimensional Fund Advisors, David Booth, as he talks about what drives the stock market, using March Madness as the backdrop.

Many people start out managing their own investments. But as their earnings and assets grow, their financial needs and challenges become more complex—and continuing to go it alone could prove costly in terms of investing miscues. Consider three common mistakes that can reduce returns and increase anxiety ...

As the flowers bloom and the days grow longer, spring serves as the perfect reminder that it’s time to refresh and rejuvenate. While you’re decluttering your home and tidying up your garden, don’t forget to give your finances a thorough spring cleaning as well. Just like your living space, your financial health requires attention and maintenance.

Growing up my father would often say “cash is king” as he handed over bills to the cashier while I rolled my eyes upon hearing this saying for the millionth time. But now as a financial advisor, I understand the importance of cash and that making strategic decisions about where to earn a little extra return on your short-term savings and emergency fund is crucial for maintaining and growing wealth.

We all know the saying that nothing is certain in life except death and taxes, and I would certainly rather talk about taxes! It’s that time of year again – the IRS is now accepting returns and the worry about this year’s “damage” may have started to creep in. On the other side of the fence, tax preparers have bought up all the coffee pods and are kissing their loved ones goodbye as they hunker down for the busy season.