Even while tuition bills seem far off in the future, 529 plans can be a powerful tool which can help parents establish the habit of saving early and ease some of the financial and psychological stress that can arise as college enrollment approaches.
Over the past two decades, national commitments at global climate conferences and an array of new regulations have pushed companies to measure and publicly share information about the environmental impact of their operations.
Q4 2023 Market Commentary
The strong rally over the final two months of 2023 has led to the question of whether potential 2024 price gains may have been pulled forward. To some extent, we would say yes. Stock valuations aren’t unreasonable given where interest rates are, but they are pricing in a strong probability of several interest rate cuts in 2024.
History indicates that when cardboard prices jump higher, the economy is revving up. Some analysts have said that it is too soon to tell whether price increases will persist or if they are a one-time adjustment in a retail market still reeling from the unique circumstances of the pandemic.
Community Capital Management (CCM), created a focused opportunity for investors to direct capital to underserved minority communities to accelerate the process of narrowing economic disparities: the Minority Cares Program. We profile three key investments made during 2023 as part of that program.
Charlie Munger was an inspiration to countless investors - including members of our team here at North Berkeley. His emphasis on acquiring a diverse range of mental models, understanding the fundamental nature of business, and maintaining a long-term perspective has become gospel for many in the financial world. Rest in Peace Charlie Munger.
Taking steps to develop independence from the power grid saves energy and money and can also bring you peace of mind. Whether you are ready to make the change to solar energy or just beginning to explore your options, we can help you understand your financial landscape and provide support as you engage with experts to assess your personal situation.
Over the last decade, social and environmental issues have joined governance as top issues on annual shareholder ballots, reflecting both investor and popular concerns. We summarize a few ways in which investors are catalyzing conversations with corporate management
Prices have remained relatively stable over the past few weeks, and investors are closely watching the headlines from the Fed regarding US interest rate policy as well as further developments in the Middle East.
Donor Advised Funds (DAFs) are powerful tools for charitable giving and legacy planning. They help with organizing a giving strategy, allow for potential asset growth, benefit yearly tax planning, and help mitigate gains from appreciated stock.
Q3 2023 Market Commentary
With the economy remaining stronger than expected and the Fed signaling one more rate hike in 2023, investors are being forced to recalibrate their expectations for both stock and bond valuations.
Social Security benefits are an important component of any retirement plan. The decision of when to claim Social Security benefits should be based on your individual circumstances.
While it's natural to feel uneasy when short-term risks such as wildfires or weak corporate earnings cast a shadow over the financial markets or local skylines, history reminds us that these risks will pass with time. Financial shocks are a natural part of being a long-term investor, which is why it is important to build a portfolio that prioritizes resiliency.
For many, the years leading up to retirement are a time of transition from the world of work to one of leisure and personal fulfillment. Carefully preparing can give you peace of mind, freeing your headspace for life’s more meaningful moments.
Transformation of industrial processes is key to slowing the growth and eventually decreasing the pace of carbon emissions. Space research has made contributions to development of measurement technologies that have allowed for innovation and improvement.
We are taking a break from our regularly scheduled reflection to begin our Labor Day weekend by closing laptops, turning off Zoom, and taking a moment to reflect on the hard work of our team.
Like the first in a line of dominos, public investment in large-scale scientific endeavors can start a chain reaction of innovation that benefits economic growth and sustainable development in unforeseeable and beneficial ways.
Inheriting wealth is an emotional, legal and financial journey. Seeking guidance from a team of professionals as you navigate this journey will provide insight and support to your decision making process along the way.
The decision to move or renovate depends on a multitude of factors. Consulting with experts such as real estate professionals, mortgage brokers and financial professionals can provide valuable guidance in choosing your path forward.
The recent US credit downgrade by Fitch Ratings is less about financial fundamentals, and more about political will and the process of level-headed governance.