Today’s Sponsor
Happy Sunday! Here’s what we’re covering in today’s Clark Smart Investing newsletter:
Think you know the perfect time to retire? Why that might be a trap
Giving money to the next generation: A goal-by-goal guide
How the midterm elections could affect your investments
Q&A with Wes Moss: What do you think is a good ratio of liquid net worth compared to total net worth?
💵 Think You Know the Perfect Time to Retire? Why That Might Be a Trap
Most people spend a few years thinking about retirement before they do it. They start running the numbers, log into their 401(k) a little more often and wonder if they can afford to stop working. If the market happens to be climbing during those years, every time they log in, the answer looks a little more like yes.
But a rising balance doesn’t tell the whole story.
The worst time to retire usually disguises itself as the best time — and pulling the plug at the "peak" is a costly trap most people don't see until it’s too late. Before you call it quits, read the full article.
📚 Recommended Reading
Don't default to a standard savings account. Whether you are funding college, buying a first home, or jump-starting retirement, this guide helps you identify the account to choose and the alternatives worth knowing. Read more.
Midterm elections always bring a storm of political noise, but should you make changes to your 401(k) or IRA before the results come in? Before you make a move with your money, here is what history actually says about midterms, markets, and your long-term plan. Read more.
Sponsor
Market downturns don't wait for a convenient time. And when you're relying on investments for income, a decline early in retirement can create challenges that aren't always obvious. Learn why timing, withdrawals, and portfolio construction all matter.
💬 Ask an Advisor
✅ Poll: What’s Your Take?
Every week, we'll ask a new question to get your take on the latest financial trends and topics.
What primarily determines your retirement date?
Last Week’s Poll Results
We asked: “Are you interested in buying shares of major IPOs when companies go public?” Here’s how you answered:
Yes - (13%)
No - (64%)
Only indirectly (index funds, 401(k)s, etc.) - (23%)
💸 Money Tip of the Week
Inventory your home: Take just 15 minutes this weekend to grab your phone and do a simple "walk-and-talk" video tour of your home, narrating your valuables, appliances, and recent upgrades as you go. It costs nothing, requires zero spreadsheets, and gives you indisputable proof to protect your hard-earned belongings when you need it most.
☎ Need Money Help?
The Team Clark Consumer Action Center is a free helpline that can help you navigate your money questions. Call 636-492-5275. Visit clark.com/cac for more information.
Sponsor
This information is provided to you as a resource for informational purposes only and is not to be viewed as investment advice or recommendations. Investing involves risk, including the possible loss of principal. There is no guarantee offered that investment return, yield, or performance will be achieved. This information is being presented without consideration of the investment objectives, risk tolerance, or financial circumstances of any specific investor and might not be suitable for all investors. Any company names shown are for illustrative purposes only and are not a recommendation, offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy any security. The views and opinions expressed are for educational purposes only as of the date of production/writing and may change without notice at any time based on numerous factors, such as market or other conditions. Always consult your own legal, tax, or investment advisor before making any investment/tax/estate/financial planning considerations or decisions.
