Education
Where does all the money go?
A Deeper Dive into Government SpendingBy Bob Peters || November 4, 2024An Insurance Company with an ArmyEvery citizen should understand how he/she is taxed and how our government spends those tax dollars. As mentioned in the blog post, Historical Tax Rates,...
Historical tax rates, government expenditures and the size of the federal deficit: Why it is important to understand
Historical tax rates, government expenditures and the size of the federal deficit: Why it is important to understand. Where would you cut spending? Who should pay higher taxes? Learn first.
Embracing a Total Cost of Ownership Mindset will be helpful
Many folks underestimate the total cost of owning an asset after the initial purchase. Whether its a car, a home, or an “experience”, you will be well served to have a total cost of ownership mindset.
Health Savings Accounts can be awesome for your financial security
The Government currently gives you an investment vehicle that is second to none. If you can take advantage of an HSA you should certainly do so.
Watch out for Buy Now Pay Later offers
Buy Now Pay Later programs should be avoided because the downside risk is greater than the short term dopamine hit of the purchased item. Just because you can, does not mean that you should.
Insurance: Why it’s important and things to consider
Paying for insurance can seem like a waste of money as months or years can go by without ever making a claim. But insurance can save you from financial ruin so its important to include in your budget
Integrity, Trustworthiness and serving your Best Interest matters
Being a trustworthy person of the highest integrity will serve you well in life. Should you ever consider utilizing the services of a Financial Advisor expect them to always serve your best interest.
Financial Literacy increases your wealth and the Importance of Simplicity
Research has shown that being financially literate can increase your net worth by 30-40%. Don’t let the Perfect (Complexity) be the enemy of the Good (Simplicity).
A first hand diary of Benjamin Roth who documented life in Youngstown Ohio during the Great Depression: The Great Depression: A Diary
Reading the actual notes from Benjamin Roth's diary gives a first hand view of how such a difficult period in US history impacted daily life. You feel as if you are living the experiences as you flip each page. This book will boost your sense of gratitude and empathy. As with all books, check out your library first.
A Book elaborating on the University of Texas 2014 Commencement Address given by Admiral William H. McRaven: Make Your Bed, little things that can change your life and maybe the world
This exceptional man, a retired four star Admiral who led the Navy Seals, recounts the 10 principles he learned in Navy Seal training that helped him overcome challenges and adversity. The book is a quick read and the video of the actual Commencement Address will give you goose bumps. Over 10 million viewers have seen the video.
A book: Thinking Fast and Slow, Daniel Kahneman
The 2002 recipient of Noble Prize in Economic Sciences was an early academic pioneer to explain how human brains are wired for Fast (System 1) and Slow (System 2) processing and how these systems impact financial decision making. Kahneman gives you practical ways you can be better armed against the human brain mechanics that can result in poor decision making.
A book: The Geometry of Wealth: How to shape a life of meaning, by Brian Portnoy
Brian Portony, PhD and CFA, is a well respected academic and author in the field of behavioral finance. This is not a get rich quick read. Rather, Portnoy takes you on a journey to think about how money overlays into a joyful life. Portnoy covers off on the difference between Experienced and Reflective happiness which grounds all of us, regardless of our individual financial circumstances.
A Podcast: Rules of the Money Game, The Morgan Housel Podcast
I'm a big fan of Morgan Housel and highly recommend reading his book, The Psychology of Money, as well as bookmarking his Podcast. The link above takes you to his 3rd podcast episode where he discusses his top 30 rules of the money game...good stuff. Enjoy.
America in Facts 2025: USA Facts.org
A non-partisian report covering federal finances, federal tax revenues, standard of living, immigration and border security, and population. Use facts, determine your view using facts.
Recent Posts
Poor Richard and Seed Corn for your future
Your financial security can be enhanced from the lessons learned on the farm. Don’t eat the seed corn.
Diversification is good but requires good Behavior
Diversification. How losing in the short term leads to winning in the long term. Diversification is good but requires good Behavior.
Who is the customer? Why Passive wins.
Active asset managers seek the endorsement of Financial Advisors. Investors seek the advice of Financial Advisors. Who is the customer? The long term performance of low cost passive funds wins hands down.
Japanese internment; a lesson, fear and poor decision making
On February 19, 1945 the Presidential Executive order 9066 devasted the lives of over 100,000 Americans of Japanese descent. Fear is an emotion that can lead to poor decision making.