The Lindberg & Ripple Knowledge Base

Read the latest news and insights on investing, wealth planning, benefits, insurance solutions, and more.

The One Big Beautiful Bill Has Passed: What High-Net-Worth Families Must Consider Now

The One Big Beautiful Bill Has Passed: What High-Net-Worth Families Must Consider Now

The recently enacted “One Big Beautiful Bill” (OBBB) has permanently reshaped the estate planning landscape for high-net-worth individuals and families. With federal estate, gift, and generation-skipping transfer (GST) tax exemptions now locked in at $15 million per individual ($30 million per married couple), this legislation delivers both clarity and urgency. The implications of the OBBB […]

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Philanthropy with Purpose: Structuring Charitable Giving to Increase Impact and Decrease Taxes

Philanthropy with Purpose: Structuring Charitable Giving to Increase Impact and Decrease Taxes

Charitable giving has always been a powerful expression of personal values, community support, and family legacy. Today, affluent families and business owners are seeking more strategic ways to give—methods that align with long-term financial goals while creating meaningful impact. Fortunately, modern philanthropic tools allow donors to structure their giving with precision, flexibility, and tax efficiency. […]

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The Hidden Risks in High-Complexity Balance Sheets — and How to Manage Them

The Hidden Risks in High-Complexity Balance Sheets — and How to Manage Them

The Hidden Risks in High-Complexity Balance Sheets — and How to Manage Them For many high-net-worth families and executives, wealth does not sit neatly in a single portfolio. It is spread across business interests, real estate, insurance structures, trusts, alternative investments, and long-term commitments. And while complexity often signals success, it also introduces hidden risks […]

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Why Every Executive Should Review Their Planning Team, Not Just Their Portfolio

Why Every Executive Should Review Their Planning Team, Not Just Their Portfolio

Why Every Executive Should Review Their Planning Team, Not Just Their Portfolio Executives are accustomed to reviewing performance. Portfolios, business units, strategic plans, and budgets all receive regular attention. Yet one area that often goes unexamined is the team of advisors who support an executive’s financial life. As careers advance and wealth grows, financial complexity […]

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Creating Clarity Around Family Wealth: Communication Strategies for Multi-Generation Success

Creating Clarity Around Family Wealth: Communication Strategies for Multi-Generation Success

Creating Clarity Around Family Wealth: Communication Strategies for Multi-Generation Success Significant wealth brings opportunities, but it also brings complexity. Families often focus on managing assets, yet overlook the importance of communicating values, intentions, and long-term goals. Without a clear structure for sharing information, misunderstandings can develop, expectations can diverge, and future generations may feel unprepared […]

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Navigating Sudden Wealth: How to Build a Thoughtful, Long-Term Plan

Navigating Sudden Wealth: How to Build a Thoughtful, Long-Term Plan

Navigating Sudden Wealth: How to Build a Thoughtful, Long-Term Plan Sudden wealth does not always feel sudden. For many executives and professionals, it is the result of years—sometimes decades—of hard work, career growth, and strategic decisions. But when income accelerates quickly or a major liquidity event occurs, the financial landscape can shift overnight. What once […]

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Blockchain, Crypto, and the Future of Money: What Investors Really Need to Know

Blockchain, Crypto, and the Future of Money: What Investors Really Need to Know

Blockchain, Crypto, and the Future of Money: What Investors Really Need to Know Cryptocurrency conversations often jump straight into price predictions, market volatility, or the latest headline. But to truly understand whether digital assets deserve space in a portfolio, it’s important to step back—way back—and look at how money itself evolved. From Bartering to Banking: […]

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Smart Year-End Planning: Tax, Estate, and Investment Moves to Make Before December 31st

Smart Year-End Planning: Tax, Estate, and Investment Moves to Make Before December 31st

The final quarter of the year offers an important opportunity to strengthen your financial position before the calendar resets. Proactive year-end planning…

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Private Equity in Healthcare: What Medical and Dental Practice Owners Should Know Before Selling

Private Equity in Healthcare: What Medical and Dental Practice Owners Should Know Before Selling

Private equity consolidation in healthcare is accelerating. For many medical and dental professionals, this wave of acquisitions represents both opportunity and risk.

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Cybersecurity and Wealth: Protecting Your Financial Life in a Digital World

Cybersecurity and Wealth: Protecting Your Financial Life in a Digital World

In an age when nearly every financial transaction, document, and communication occurs online, cybersecurity has become a central component of wealth preservation.

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The One Big Beautiful Bill Act: What You Need to Know and How It May Affect Your Planning

The One Big Beautiful Bill Act: What You Need to Know and How It May Affect Your Planning

On July 4, 2025, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act became law. This wide‑ranging legislation affects taxes, deductions, credits, and other provisions that may have a direct impact on your financial strategy. At Lindberg & Ripple, we have seen how shifts in tax law can create both opportunities and challenges. While headlines often focus on a few […]

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Longevity Planning: Financial Strategies for a 100-Year Life

Longevity Planning: Financial Strategies for a 100-Year Life

Advancements in healthcare, nutrition, and medical technology have made it increasingly common for individuals to live well into their 90s—and beyond. As life expectancy rises, so do the financial implications of a longer retirement. Planning for a 100-year life is no longer a fringe concept. It is becoming the new reality for families who want […]

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The Silent Risk in Wealth: Planning for Incapacity Before It Is Too Late

The Silent Risk in Wealth: Planning for Incapacity Before It Is Too Late

For many high-net-worth individuals and families, wealth planning tends to focus on asset growth, tax efficiency, and legacy creation. While these elements are essential, there is another equally critical area that often goes overlooked: incapacity planning. The reality is that cognitive decline, medical emergencies, or unexpected accidents can affect anyone at any time. Without a […]

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What Employers Need to Know About Connecticut’s State-Run Retirement Program

What Employers Need to Know About Connecticut’s State-Run Retirement Program

Did you know that Connecticut businesses could face fines of up to $1,500 per employee for not complying with the state’s retirement mandate? In fact, if you have five or more employees and do not offer a retirement plan, you are required to register for MyCTSavings or certify your exemption. MyCTSavings is designed to make […]

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AI, Algorithms & Advice: Why Human Judgment Still Matters in Wealth Management

AI, Algorithms & Advice: Why Human Judgment Still Matters in Wealth Management

The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) has transformed nearly every sector of the global economy, and wealth management is no exception. From robo-advisors to AI-driven portfolio optimizers and tax-loss harvesting tools, technology has become a powerful force in financial planning and investing. These tools offer speed, efficiency, and the ability to analyze vast amounts of […]

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Global Conflict and the Markets: Why Long-Term Investing Still Prevails

Global Conflict and the Markets: Why Long-Term Investing Still Prevails

Geopolitical conflict is unsettling. It can trigger fear, dominate headlines, and cause sudden drops in the market. Investors understandably worry about what war, terrorism, or political instability may mean for their portfolios. However, history offers a clear and consistent lesson: while markets may react sharply in the short term, they have shown remarkable resilience over […]

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New Law Locks in $15 Million Estate, Gift & GST Tax Exemptions Permanently

New Law Locks in $15 Million Estate, Gift & GST Tax Exemptions Permanently

We are monitoring a major development in federal tax policy: H.R. 1—nicknamed the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act”—has cleared both chambers of Congress and is headed to the White House for signature. What It Does What It Does Not Change Why This Might Matter To You What You Should Do Now Bottom line: If signed into […]

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The Enduring Strength of the 60/40 Portfolio: Why Balance Matters Now More Than Ever

The Enduring Strength of the 60/40 Portfolio: Why Balance Matters Now More Than Ever

In a market defined by volatility, uncertainty, and ever-changing headlines, it is easy for investors to get caught up chasing the latest trends or focusing solely on domestic markets. However, time-tested strategies often prove to be the most resilient—and few strategies have stood the test of time like the classic 60/40 portfolio. A 60/40 portfolio […]

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Concentrated Portfolios Are Getting Hit — Diversification Is Your Best Defense

Concentrated Portfolios Are Getting Hit — Diversification Is Your Best Defense

In today’s volatile market environment, diversification remains a cornerstone of prudent investing. Recent market data underscores the importance of spreading investments across various sectors to mitigate risk and enhance potential returns.​ The Tech Sector’s Outsized Influence A glance at the S&P 500 heat map reveals that while many sectors are experiencing modest gains or slight […]

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Growth vs. Value: A Market Perspective from DFA

Growth vs. Value: A Market Perspective from DFA

The recent DFA meeting shed light on an important market narrative—one that often gets misinterpreted. While growth stocks have had

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AI Investing: The Gold Rush or the Picks and Shovels?

AI Investing: The Gold Rush or the Picks and Shovels?

At a recent lunch with investors, the conversation turned to AI ETFs and the parallels to past investment booms.

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Stay the Course: Why Reacting to Policy News Can Hurt Your Investments

Stay the Course: Why Reacting to Policy News Can Hurt Your Investments

In today’s fast-moving world, it is easy to get caught up in the latest headlines. A major political announcement can send markets swinging, and…

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Estate Planning in 2025: What to Expect and How to Prepare

Estate Planning in 2025: What to Expect and How to Prepare

With the election results in, many are wondering how estate planning strategies might change in 2025. The good news? You can move forward with…

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Bringing Estate Planning to Life with Technology

Bringing Estate Planning to Life with Technology

Estate planning is about more than just drafting documents—it’s about ensuring your wealth is distributed exactly as you intend. The challenge…

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2024 Markets: A Lesson in Unpredictability

2024 Markets: A Lesson in Unpredictability

Every year, financial analysts, economists, and asset managers make bold predictions about where the market will head in the next…

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Investment Insight: The price you pay for an investment matters more than you think

Investment Insight: The price you pay for an investment matters more than you think

In the world of investing, the price you pay can make or break your portfolio. This timeless…

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Big Changes Could be Ahead in Tax Policy

Big Changes Could be Ahead in Tax Policy

As we approach 2025, tax policy is shaping up to be a key focus in Washington. With significant provisions of…

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Need Access to Funds? Consider a Life Insurance Loan

Need Access to Funds? Consider a Life Insurance Loan

When thinking about ways to access liquidity during financial emergencies or to fund significant life events, borrowing against the cash value of your…

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How to Balance Legacy Planning with Family Needs

How to Balance Legacy Planning with Family Needs

As a high-net-worth individual, your financial plan likely extends beyond your personal wealth management. It is also about…

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The Importance of Diversification in Today’s Volatile Markets

The Importance of Diversification in Today’s Volatile Markets

In an era of increasing market volatility, the concept of diversification remains one of the most important…

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Retirement Accounts and Estate Planning: Securing Your Financial Legacy

Retirement Accounts and Estate Planning: Securing Your Financial Legacy

When it comes to estate planning, trusts are a powerful tool to ensure that your assets are managed and distributed according to…

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Revocable vs. Irrevocable Trusts: Key Differences and Their Role in Estate Planning

Revocable vs. Irrevocable Trusts: Key Differences and Their Role in Estate Planning

When it comes to estate planning, trusts are a powerful tool to ensure that your assets are managed and distributed according to…

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The Unpredictability of Markets: Why Long-Term Investing is the Key to Success

The Unpredictability of Markets: Why Long-Term Investing is the Key to Success

At Lindberg & Ripple, we often emphasize the importance of a long-term investment strategy. The reason is simple: the stock market is inherently…

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Strategic Philanthropy: Maximizing Impact Through Donor-Advised Funds and Private Foundations

Strategic Philanthropy: Maximizing Impact Through Donor-Advised Funds and Private Foundations

At Lindberg & Ripple, we believe that true wealth extends beyond financial success—it’s also about…

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Navigating 2024 Legislative Changes: A Guide for High Net Worth Individuals

Navigating 2024 Legislative Changes: A Guide for High Net Worth Individuals

Each year ushers in legislative and regulatory adjustments that impact key financial planning areas, such as retirement account contribution limits, tax brackets, Roth IRA…

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The Importance of Proactive Cash Planning in Today’s Financial Landscape

The Importance of Proactive Cash Planning in Today’s Financial Landscape

In the ever-evolving financial landscape, cash management has become a critical aspect of wealth preservation and growth. With banks and…

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Why Your Business Needs A Strong Employee Retirement Plan To Grow

Why Your Business Needs A Strong Employee Retirement Plan To Grow

In today’s competitive business environment, attracting and retaining top talent is paramount. Offering a comprehensive employee benefits package, including a robust retirement plan…

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Securing the Future Made Simple: Integrating Life Insurance into Your Financial Plan

Securing the Future Made Simple: Integrating Life Insurance into Your Financial Plan

In the dynamic world of personal finance, life insurance plays a pivotal role, yet many overlook it due to perceived complexities in the application process.

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Safeguarding Your Finances: The Importance of Cybersecurity in Financial Advisory Services

Safeguarding Your Finances: The Importance of Cybersecurity in Financial Advisory Services

In today’s digital age, where financial transactions and sensitive information are increasingly conducted online, the role of cybersecurity in financial advisory services cannot be overstated.

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Harnessing Ingenuity: How Innovation Overcomes Economic Obstacles

Harnessing Ingenuity: How Innovation Overcomes Economic Obstacles

In the ever-evolving landscape of the economy, one thing remains constant: the power of human ingenuity to overcome obstacles and drive progress.

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Navigating the Risks: Private Equity Investments Amidst Covid and Beyond

Navigating the Risks: Private Equity Investments Amidst Covid and Beyond

In the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic, private equity funds seized opportunities amidst market uncertainties, investing in companies with high valuations.

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What the Mass Millionaire’s Tax Means for High-Net-Worth Individuals

What the Mass Millionaire’s Tax Means for High-Net-Worth Individuals

A tax increase for those who make over $1 million. But there are ways to reduce the impact.

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Incorporating Charitable Giving in Wealth Preservation

Incorporating Charitable Giving in Wealth Preservation

Investors with generational wealth to grow and nurture need to ensure they have balanced portfolios that….

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Why Is Multigenerational Wealth Management Important?

Why Is Multigenerational Wealth Management Important?

Investors with generational wealth to grow and nurture need to ensure they have balanced portfolios that….

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What Is Wealth Preservation?

What Is Wealth Preservation?

Investors with generational wealth to grow and nurture need to ensure they have balanced portfolios that….

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How to Leave Behind More Wealth for Future Generations with the Florida Community Property Trust Act

How to Leave Behind More Wealth for Future Generations with the Florida Community Property Trust Act

The Florida Community Property Trust Act can help shield your property from capital gains…

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How the life insurance industry is evolving to help save lives

How the life insurance industry is evolving to help save lives

What if someone told you there was a life insurance product that not only insured your life, but could also save it? Would you consider that product over others?

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How Secure Act 2.0 Will Improve Your Retirement Savings

How Secure Act 2.0 Will Improve Your Retirement Savings

With the Secure 2.0 Act now signed into law, it’s worth taking some time to understand the provisions that could help boost your retirement prospects.

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Carl Peterson meets with Senator Susan Collins

Carl Peterson meets with Senator Susan Collins

One of the benefits of being a long-time leader in life insurance industry is the opportunity to meet with our elected leaders to discuss trends and the current state…

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What Fluctuating Bond Values Mean for Investors

What Fluctuating Bond Values Mean for Investors

Learn why bond values change, the factors causing recent volatility, and why bonds remain an important part of a balanced investment portfolio.

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Carl Peterson presents at the M Financial’s Magnet Summit

Carl Peterson presents at the M Financial’s Magnet Summit

M Financial’s 2022 Magnet Summit marked the third year since the launch of the Magnet program in 2019.

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Why the Market Usually Leads, Making Market Timing an Unrealistic Approach

Why the Market Usually Leads, Making Market Timing an Unrealistic Approach

Because the stock market is a leading economic indicator, taking a strategic view when investing makes more sense than trying to time the dips and peaks Many economists agree that the stock market is a leading economic indicator rather than a lagging or current one, as stocks tend to be forward-looking. The market leads by […]

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Why the “Backdoor” Roth IRA Became a Target of Tax Reform

Why the “Backdoor” Roth IRA Became a Target of Tax Reform

Learn why the “backdoor” Roth IRA, a popular strategy for some high-wealth investors, became a focus of tax reform efforts.

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The Risk of Alternative Investment Options in a Turbulent Market

The Risk of Alternative Investment Options in a Turbulent Market

Learn why some investors look beyond the traditional portfolio mix and toward alternative investment vehicles and why this carries unique risks.

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What the Robinhood Controversies Reveal about DIY Retail Investing

What the Robinhood Controversies Reveal about DIY Retail Investing

Learn about the impact Robinhood and similar retail investment platforms have had on investors, regulators, and the financial markets.

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The Rise in Securities-Based Lending to Wealthy Investors

The Rise in Securities-Based Lending to Wealthy Investors

Borrowing against a portfolio of stocks and bonds can be a relevant financial & tax strategy, but it is not without risk

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The Potential Tax Risks and Rewards of REITs Under the Biden Administration

The Potential Tax Risks and Rewards of REITs Under the Biden Administration

Learn why Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) could be considered an attractive investment and how proposed tax reforms could impact them.

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Making Sense of the Great Inflation Debate of 2021

Making Sense of the Great Inflation Debate of 2021

Learn why some experts fear inflation will reach record highs and what rising rates could mean for investments.

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Why Investing in an S&P 500 Index Fund Remains a Popular Option

Why Investing in an S&P 500 Index Fund Remains a Popular Option

Learn why Warren Buffet, among other market watchers, advise investing in the S&P 500 index fund over “trendier” stocks.

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Bond Investment Myths Amid Interest Rate & Inflation Speculation

Bond Investment Myths Amid Interest Rate & Inflation Speculation

Learn why bonds have fallen out of favor among some investors who fear rising interest rates and inflation, and if their concerns are justified.

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Lowering a Tax Burden Through Stock Donations

Lowering a Tax Burden Through Stock Donations

Donating appreciated stocks can provide numerous benefits. Learn how this charitable gift can reduce your tax burden.

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The 5 Traits of a Top Wealth Management and Investment Advisor

The 5 Traits of a Top Wealth Management and Investment Advisor

Receiving world-class financial advice relies on specific, crucial professional qualities. Learn what they are:

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The Basics of Investment Liquidity

The Basics of Investment Liquidity

Learn about high and low liquidity levels and what each could mean for your current and future portfolio decisions. Think of assets as ice and money like water, and you’re getting the gist of liquidity.

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The Risks Involved in Maintaining Intergenerational Wealth

The Risks Involved in Maintaining Intergenerational Wealth

A history of wealth is no guarantee that it will survive the next generation. Know the risks to create more durable assets. The greatest wealth transfer in history is afoot. The next decade will see around $68 trillion passed from one…

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Are Concentrated Assets More Risk than Reward?

Are Concentrated Assets More Risk than Reward?

Many wealthy individuals hold concentrated asset positions, but this strategy requires great risk awareness. Concentrated assets rightly set off some alarm bells by challenging the golden rule of diversification.

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The Difference Between Restricted and Controlled Stock

The Difference Between Restricted and Controlled Stock

Securities can take various forms, and each has certain benefits, drawbacks, details, and applications. Knowing the difference…

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Active vs. Passive Investing: The Pros and Cons

Active vs. Passive Investing: The Pros and Cons

How close should an investor’s finger be to the pulse of their assets? As always in wealth management, the answer relies heavily on the individual’s circumstances and preferences alongside some tried and tested practices.

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A Look at Income Replacement in Retirement

A Look at Income Replacement in Retirement

The things that should end with a career are stress and traffic—income must maintain a steady flow for a comfortable and secure retirement.

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The Basics of Asset Allocation

The Basics of Asset Allocation

Achieving optimal allocation is a key investor goal, but what constitutes “optimal” is a diverse variable not only between individuals but often for the same individual over time…

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Ways to Minimize Taxation on Highly Appreciated Assets

Ways to Minimize Taxation on Highly Appreciated Assets

Capital gains taxes can take a massive bite out of the returns on highly appreciated assets. Capital gains, of course, are the amount by which…

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The Benefits and Challenges of Estate Equalization

The Benefits and Challenges of Estate Equalization

Estate distributions are about more than money and assets—and wealthy individuals may find it difficult to form a long-term strategy that’s fair to everyone.

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Dynasty Trusts and Multi-Generational Planning Can Help Future-Proof Wealth

Dynasty Trusts and Multi-Generational Planning Can Help Future-Proof Wealth

It’s a sad reality that estrangement and divorce can sour relationships with loved ones and impact family wealth. Taxes can also significantly impact…

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Financial Planning for a Longer Life

Financial Planning for a Longer Life

People are living longer, leaving many with more time than money. Learn why this can be a double-edged sword for the wealthy…

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Retirement Planning by the Numbers

Retirement Planning by the Numbers

Retirement planning offers many options for peace of mind. Spotlighting the 401(k), 403(b), and 457(f) and how a plan manager can help. 401(k)s, 403(b)s, and 457(f)s are vital tools for retirement planners. Some plans are…

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Be Dedicated to Your Clients and Everything Will Fall into Place

Be Dedicated to Your Clients and Everything Will Fall into Place

Michael Silverberg is a Senior Advisor at Lindberg & Ripple. Listen to him speak on the M Financial Podcast “Inside Voices: Be Dedicated to Your Clients and Everything will Fall into Place.”

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The Generation-Skipping Tax Exemption and Maximizing Wealth Preservation

The Generation-Skipping Tax Exemption and Maximizing Wealth Preservation

It’s important to understand the GST tax (Generation-Skipping Transfer tax) in the context of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA). Since it’s passing, the TCJA has led to significant changes…

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Should You Consider Private Placement Life Insurance?

Should You Consider Private Placement Life Insurance?

The secret to investing in alternative investments without a supersized tax bite Private Placement Life Insurance (PPLI) products are fast becoming the strategy…

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Estate Planning Opportunities with the TCJA: Gift Tax Exemptions

Estate Planning Opportunities with the TCJA: Gift Tax Exemptions

People with large estates have an unprecedented – but temporary – opportunity to transfer a substantial amount of wealth to their loved ones without incurring transfer taxes. Lindberg & Ripple reveals why families should take advantage of these higher gift tax limits now for estate planning.

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Various Investment Options Defer Tax and Generate More Potential Income

Various Investment Options Defer Tax and Generate More Potential Income

“Time is money” is a neat summation of tax-deferred investment accounts. Discover how to generate these savings and why the longer investors wait, the better.

Taxes are typically inevitable. However, there are ways to delay the inevitable and accumulate more significant wealth in the process.

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Investors: A World of Diversification Benefits is Waiting

Investors: A World of Diversification Benefits is Waiting

Why a globally-diversified portfolio can help you weather the short-term ups and downs of investing.
Nobel Prize-winning economist Harry Markowitz famously called diversification the only “free lunch” in finance.

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