Inheritance planning often focuses on numbers—assets, accounts, and distributions. But a true legacy is about more than just wealth; it’s the values, knowledge, and responsibility that empower the next generation to carry it forward. Leaving a financial legacy means ensuring your family not only inherits assets but also the wisdom to manage them wisely. … Read more
Personal Finance
Feeling Unsure About Your U.S. Investments?
Are you an American in Israel worrying about your U.S. investments? You’re not alone. A longtime client recently asked me a question I hear often: “Is my portfolio safe?” With the Fed sending mixed signals on interest rates and markets swinging wildly, even seasoned investors are rethinking their strategies.
Why Bonds May Not Be as “Safe” as You Think
My client and I discussed how changes in the Fed’s interest rates impact both stocks and bonds…. Read more
The Cost of Keeping Financial Secrets
Parents often avoid talking finances with their adult children, especially when significant assets are involved. Yet holding back on these conversations can create confusion and even lead to conflict down the road. Recently, a client in her 70s shared her concern that her children knew little about her finances, leaving her worried about how they’d manage her legacy when she’s no longer there to guide them. … Read more
Asset-Rich, Cash-Poor
Ever feel “asset-rich but cash-poor”?
That was the shock a retired couple shared with me recently. They spent years building a portfolio of real estate, relying on rental income to fund their lifestyle. But when unexpected expenses hit—helping family, covering medical bills—they found themselves in trouble. Their wealth was tied up in properties,… Read more
Market Stress Got You Down? This Strategy Helps
Are market swings making you anxious about your investments? You’re not alone. Many investors feel overwhelmed by market volatility. One of my retired clients who typically enjoys managing her portfolio recently told me the constant fluctuations leave her feeling stressed. If you’re in a similar situation, there are ways to manage your emotions and make smart decisions,… Read more
Is Fear of Losing Money Preventing You from Making Financial Decisions?
Fear of managing your hard-earned money can be paralyzing, but small steps can lead to significant financial gains. As a financial planner, I’ve seen many clients whose fear of making a mistake prevents them from making any financial decision, good or bad. I recently met with a woman who was widowed for more than 20 years and left her money sitting in a bank out of fear and uncertainty…. Read more
How to Make Your Charitable Giving More Impactful
Have you ever felt your charitable donations could be more impactful?
Some people worry their charity isn’t making the difference they intended. Strategic philanthropy can make the world a better place and also benefit your financial health. Here’s how to ensure your charitable giving has the strongest effect:
Align Giving with Family Values
To maximize the impact of your charitable donations,… Read more
What’s Your Investment Persona? Uncover Your True Style
I recently sat down with a client who had just moved to Israel and wanted to review his investment strategy. As we started the conversation, he asked, “Doug, how do I know if I should take big risks or play it safe with my investments?”
This is a question I hear often,… Read more
How One Widow Took Control of Her Finances
Have you ever felt like your investments were no longer working for you? Like you’re stuck in a financial situation that doesn’t align with your goals or comfort level? Recently, I spoke with a widow living in Israel who faced this very issue. Despite having a well-established portfolio in the U.S.,… Read more
Reduce Your Tax Burden by Donating Appreciated Stock
Imagine this: You’re ready to donate money, but your wealth is stuck in stocks. This was the challenge for one of my clients during the war. He wanted to make a significant donation to help the soldiers, but his assets were stuck in investments that if he sold them,… Read more