Direct indexing, also known as separate accounts or tailored portfolio management, is an investment strategy providing advanced portfolio customization and tax efficiency.

Direct indexing does not involve purchasing shares in mutual funds or exchange-traded funds (ETFs). Instead, it involves buying individual securities comprising a certain index such as the S&P 500, NASDAQ, or any other market index. Here are a few reasons an investor may use a direct indexing strategy.

Flexibility

The draw of direct indexing lies in its flexibility. An investor can adjust the portfolio holding to include or exclude certain stocks based on personal preferences, ethical concerns, or tax considerations. In contrast, traditional methods like ETFs and mutual funds...

Legacy planning involves leaving more than financial assets for future generations. It's about preserving and continuing one's values, life experiences, and personal philosophies. It is a holistic approach to managing wealth, typically involving multiple generations developing and implementing the plan.

Legacy planning covers traditional estate planning activities such as trusts and asset distribution but includes broader considerations, such as how a person wants to be remembered. Here are some of the critical actions involved in legacy planning.

Understanding assets and liabilities

The first step in legacy planning involves clearly understanding your financial assets and liabilities. This first step entails analyzing your investments, properties,...

Long-term care (LTC) is an essential component of healthcare that aids individuals who are physically or mentally incapable of independent living. While it may seem daunting, LTC offers numerous benefits that can significantly enhance the quality of life and overall well-being of those in need.

Families often find themselves considering long-term care options for their loved ones due to a variety of reasons. One significant cause is the inevitable progression of age, which can bring about several health issues and an overall decline in the ability to perform daily tasks independently. Here are four reasons why families consider LTC for their loved ones.

Personalized Care

One of the most significant benefits of LTC is the provision of personalized...

Over the next few decades, an estimated $30 trillion in assets will pass to heirs. This wealth transfer provides opportunities and challenges for those who will inherit this wealth. Financial independence is paramount to understanding the implications of wealth transfer and adequately preparing for it. Here, we explore five key actions heirs must focus on as they prepare to inherit.

Open communication

Engaging in open and honest conversations about wealth transfer with the generation passing on the wealth is essential. Although discussing inheritance matters can be uncomfortable, it ensures all parties are on the same page and enables the younger generation to appreciate the responsibilities involved. Understanding what to expect can significantly manage...

As we look into 2024, predicting the trajectory of mortgage interest rates has never been more critical for prospective homebuyers. Understanding the factors influencing these rates and how they may play out can help potential homeowners make informed decisions.

Several variables weigh heavily on the direction of mortgage rates, including the state of the economy, monetary policy, inflation, and housing market conditions. Unfortunately, global economics is a highly intricate system, and these factors can change unexpectedly due to unforeseen events.

However, as challenging as forecasting may be, it's crucial to the planning process for future homeowners. So, despite the unpredictability, let's delve into some insights that may continue to impact mortgage rates throughout...

An escapade to an exotic getaway or a relaxing vacation provides an opportunity for rejuvenation. However, these leisure vacations often come with a price tag.

Establishing a vacation fund is crucial to enjoying your holiday without financial strain. Here are some practical tips to help you build your vacation fund effectively.

1. Establish a budget.

Before saving for the vacation, establish a budget to cover your daily living expenses, including groceries, bills, mortgages, and emergency funds. After covering these necessities, identify how much money you can devote to your vacation fund.

2. Set clear vacation fund goals.

Having a distinct vacation goal can inspire motivation....

Charitable giving is an integral part of many individuals' financial strategy, not only as a means of helping others but also for the numerous benefits it offers to the giver. Here, we delve into ten benefits that further underscore the importance of charitable giving.

Tax deductions- One immediate benefit of charitable giving is the potential for considerable tax deductions. Assets or cash donated to non-profit organizations can generally be deducted from income tax, significantly reducing the overall tax obligation for many individuals.

Legacy building- Through substantial charitable donations, individuals have the unique opportunity to leave a lasting legacy. The ripple effect of their contributions can be sustained for generations,...

Going through a divorce can be an emotionally charged and stressful event. Aside from the emotional toll, there's often the challenging task of disentangling finances and assets, a process that frequently leaves many divorcees in a precarious financial situation. However, it is essential to remember that this is not the end of the road—with a comprehensive strategy, you can rebuild your finances post-divorce. Here is a guide for divorcees seeking a fresh start for their finances.

1. Cut down on unnecessary spending.

Divorce usually means moving from a dual-income lifestyle to a single-income household. Therefore, some lifestyle adjustments may be necessary, at least temporarily. Review your recurring expenses and identify areas where you...

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has proposed several significant changes to the tax code as part of its revenue proposals for 2025. If enacted, these changes could have profound implications for estate planning.

As estate law and financial professionals closely monitor these potential revisions, it's crucial for individuals interested in safeguarding their wealth for future generations to stay informed about these impending changes.

The IRS's 2025 revenue proposals target wealthy individuals, potentially impacting estate planning strategies. These proposals include raising the top income tax rate, taxing capital gains at death, eliminating the stepped-up basis for capital gains, limiting the annual gift exclusion, reducing the estate and gift tax exemption amount, and...

Understanding the many economic indicators that can impact your portfolio's performance is essential as an investor. Monitoring these indicators can help you better predict patterns, identify trends, and make informed investment decisions.

Here are some key economic indicators to watch this year.

Gross Domestic Product (GDP) — measures a country's total economic output over a specified period. It essentially represents an economy's size and growth rate, making it a fundamental indicator for investors to monitor. A growing GDP signifies a healthy economy, often leading to stronger corporate profits and higher stock prices.

Unemployment Rate—The unemployment rate is another critical indicator of an economy's health. High unemployment...