Let’s be honest: when most of us were kids, “money management” meant deciding whether to spend our allowance on candy or save it for something big—like more candy. But here’s the thing: teaching kids and young adults about money early on is like giving them a superpower. And not the kind where they can fly or become invisible (although that’d …
Paragon Perspectives: Starting The Year With An Organized Budget
It’s a brand-new year, and for many of us, that means fresh starts and new goals. Whether you’re dreaming of taking a big trip, tackling debt, or simply feeling more in control of your finances, there’s one powerful tool that can help you get there: a budget. Before you start worrying about giving up your morning coffee or canceling Netflix, …
Paragon Perspectives: 2025 Market Outlook
Introduction: The Calm After the Storm? As we look ahead to 2025, the market environment appears to be catching its breath. Inflation is cooling, and the Fed has already cut rates by 100 basis points in 2024—a move akin to finally getting dessert after a painfully long dinner party. The economy has shown surprising resilience. But let’s not pop the …
Paragon Perspectives: Reviewing Your Investment Portfolio
Paragon Perspectives: Reviewing Your Investment Portfolio Your investment portfolio is like a financial garden—it needs regular weeding, watering, and the occasional pep talk to bloom. As we dive into 2025, it’s the perfect time to give your investments a once-over, make sure they’re aligned with your goals, and pluck out anything that’s not pulling its weight. Whether you’re a newbie …
Paragon Perspectives: Financial Resolutions for 2025 Your Guide to a Better Financial Future
As we welcome 2025, many of us are setting goals to improve our health, relationships, and careers. But let’s be honest—how many times have we promised to hit the gym only to become regulars at Netflix marathons instead? Unlike your New Year’s fitness goals, your financial resolutions don’t have to involve spandex or sweat.
Paragon Perspectives: Reflecting on Financial Goals For The Year
Paragon Perspectives: Reflecting on Your Financial Goals for the Year: 3 Essential Questions to Ask Yourself As the year winds down, it’s a natural time for reflection. We’re all taking stock of what we’ve accomplished, where we’ve fallen short, and how we can do better in the new year. Your financial goals are no different. Whether you’re planning for retirement, …
Paragon Perspectives: FSA/HSA Usage
Paragon Perspectives: Don’t Let Your Hard-Earned FSA and HSA Dollars Go to Waste: Smart Moves Before Year-End The end of the year is creeping up, and while you’re busy thinking about holiday shopping, family dinners, and your New Year’s resolutions, there’s one more thing that deserves your attention—your FSA and HSA funds. If you’re not careful, you could be leaving …
Paragon Perspectives: December Insights 2024
Paragon Perspectives: December Insights Executive Summary As we close out the year, it’s a good time to reflect on the economic and market trends shaping the current landscape and what might be on the horizon. Think of it as the financial version of flipping through your favorite year-end magazine with less celebrity gossip and more GDP numbers. In this week’s …
Paragon Perspectives: Charitable Giving Strategies
Paragon Perspectives: Giving Back Without Going Broke: A (Somewhat) Serious Guide to Charitable Giving Strategies Ah, charitable giving. It’s like exercise—you know it’s good for you, but sometimes you’d rather sit on the couch and binge-watch your favorite show. Don’t worry, we’re here to help you feel good about giving without sacrificing your Netflix subscription. Let’s talk about how to …
Building Your Safety Net: Why an Emergency Fund Matters More Than Ever
With year-end planning in full swing, let’s talk about something often overshadowed by retirement accounts and tax deadlines: the humble emergency fund. This financial safety net might not be flashy, but it’s your quiet hero in times of crisis. And if you’re recently single or a business owner, that “quiet hero” might be more important than ever. Here’s why an …