Blog by Mike Halper, CFP®, MPAS®, SE-AWMA®, CDAA, CBDA

Equity Compensation: Non-Qualified Stock Options

By Mike Halper, CFP®, MPAS®, SE-AWMA®, CDAA, CBDA

Non-Qualified Stock Options (NSOs) grant employees the right to buy company stock at a predetermined price, offering potential financial gains but also carrying risks such as tax liabilities and stock price volatility.
08/29/2024 10:39 AM - Comment(s)

Understanding and Navigating the Recent Market Volatility

By Mike Halper, CFP®, MPAS®, SE-AWMA®, CDAA, CBDA

Recent market volatility, driven by factors such as mixed economic data, geopolitical tensions, and interest rate speculations, highlights the importance of long-term investment strategies and seeking professional financial guidance.
08/07/2024 03:37 PM - Comment(s)

Equity Compensation: Restricted Stock Units

By Mike Halper, CFP®, MPAS®, SE-AWMA®, CDAA, CBDA

Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) are equity compensation tools that provide company shares to employees upon fulfilling vesting conditions. Proper financial planning is essential to effectively manage the risks and optimize the benefits associated with RSUs.
07/18/2024 05:28 PM - Comment(s)

Equity Compensation: Restricted Stock

By Mike Halper, CFP®, MPAS®, SE-AWMA®, CDAA, CBDA

Restricted stock is a form of equity compensation that involves shares granted to employees with certain vesting conditions and tax implications, requiring careful financial, investment, tax, and estate planning to maximize benefits and manage risks.
07/02/2024 10:36 AM - Comment(s)

Addressing Common Objections to Bitcoin

By Mike Halper, CFP®, MPAS®, SE-AWMA®, CDAA, CBDA

There are some common misconceptions and inaccuracies about Bitcoin. With a balanced and factual approach it's possible to get a clearer understanding of Bitcoin's potential as a legitimate investment asset.
06/27/2024 11:12 AM - Comment(s)

A Brief Overview of the Types of Equity Compensation

By Mike Halper, CFP®, MPAS®, SE-AWMA®, CDAA, CBDA

Equity compensation provides employees with ownership opportunities and financial incentives, along with unique risks and tax implications. It's crucial to use careful financial planning to maximize the benefits and manage risks.
06/19/2024 12:55 PM - Comment(s)

Social Security Planning is More Important Than Ever

By Mike Halper, CFP®, MPAS®, SE-AWMA®, CDAA, CBDA

With Social Security facing projected depletion of its trust fund by 2033, individuals approaching retirement age confront challenging decisions about when to claim benefits, while younger workers grapple with doubts about the program's future reliability.
05/09/2024 07:52 PM - Comment(s)

How Including Risk-Adjusted Return Can Improve Your Portfolio

By Mike Halper, CFP®, MPAS®, SE-AWMA®, CDAA, CBDA

Risk-adjusted return stands as a beacon guiding investors toward smarter, more efficient portfolio management. But what does it mean and why should it matter to you?
04/05/2024 12:38 PM - Comment(s)

Your Financial Planner Doesn't Need to be Local

By Mike Halper, CFP®, MPAS®, SE-AWMA®, CDAA, CBDA

You may think you need to choose a financial advisor in your local area, but there are a lot of reasons not to limit your choices. Here are some factors to consider first when weighing your options.
02/15/2024 11:58 AM - Comment(s)

The Benefits of Flat Fee Financial Advice & Planning

By Mike Halper, CFP®, MPAS®, SE-AWMA®, CDAA, CBDA

When selecting a financial advisor, it's important to pay attention to the fees you'll be paying, especially over the long term as your assets grow. It could cost you more than you think.
12/07/2023 10:03 AM - Comment(s)