A stronger-than-expected market can make us feel confident, but the real wins show up when our tax and savings decisions are just as intentional as our investments. We open with what actually moved the indexes lately—resilient earnings, AI noise, and surprising consumer strength—then translate that backdrop into a practical, year-end playbook you can act on before December 31. The goal: keep more of what you earn, compound with less friction, and enter the new year with a cleaner, calmer financial plan.
We walk through the highest-impact moves first. Max your 401(k) match and revisit whether pretax or Roth contributions fit your bracket now versus later. If household income is down, consider a partial Roth conversion and set an early-December paperwork deadline so it actually gets done. Understand the new RMD age under Secure Act 2.0 and how Roth IRAs avoid lifetime RMDs. Then layer in health and education tactics: fund an HSA for triple-tax benefits, review FSA rules so you don’t forfeit funds, and use 529 plans for tax-free education growth and potential state credits, with an eye on the updated rollover rules that reduce the risk of overfunding.
We also dig into tax-efficient investing that compounds quietly. Place high-turnover funds and taxable bonds in tax-advantaged accounts, lean on index ETFs in taxable, and consider municipal bonds if your bracket warrants it. Before year-end, request mutual fund distribution estimates to avoid surprise tax bills, and double-check if tax-loss harvesting suits your situation. For those eyeing a move, evaluate total tax burden before changing residency; low income taxes can be offset by higher sales or property taxes. Throughout, we share how we stay invested with minimal idle cash, focus on trends with real earnings, and use checklists to beat calendar risk.
If this helped you plan your next move, subscribe, share the show with a friend who needs a nudge before year-end, and send us your top question—we might feature it next week.
Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a registered investment advisor. Member FINRA/SIPC.
The opinions voiced in this podcast are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. To determine which strategies or investments may suit you, consult the appropriate qualified professional before deciding.
