Shows
Retirement 360Preserving Your Retirement From Taxes - March 9, 2025Today Ashley Rose Schneider from the Mercurio team discusses ways to help you preserve your retirement savings in the most tax efficient way possible, so you can keep more of it in your own pocket, not in the U.S. Treasury. Alan then joins her in the final segment to answer listener questions.2025-03-0952 minRetirement 360What to Look For in 2025 - February 23, 2025Alan and Troy take a look ahead at what to expect for the bulk of this year, including what could happen with taxes, inflation and Social Security. Then they revisit how to craft a legacy plan specific to your family's needs and goals on passing things to the next generation.2025-02-2352 minRetirement 360Financial Habits to Break - February 2, 2025With the start of a new year, it's a good idea to look at what habits you might be doing to your finances that you might want to stop. Alan and Troy look at factors such as lifestyle creep and procrastination that could be taking away opportunities to grow your savings, and how to get a better handle on these things.2025-02-0752 minRetirement 360What Does A Republican Controlled Government Mean for Retirement - January 19, 2025Alan and Troy take a look at the new Trump administration and discuss what could happen with taxes, government spending and other financial factors going forward. They also revisit how slow progress in your financial plan can help bring the kind of growth you need for your plan in the long run.2025-01-1952 minRetirement 360The Twin Threats of Taxes and Inflation - January 12, 2025Taxes and inflation are huge threats to anyone's retirement, especially when these factors are not known and can change at any time. Alan and Troy discuss some strategies, including Roth conversions, that can help mitigate the effects of these factors. They also look at a master calendar for important dates for 2025.2025-01-1252 minRetirement 360The American Dream - January 5, 2025Alan and Troy look at a recent study that indicates people would need some $4.4 million over their lifetime to achieve the traditional American Dream of owning a house, putting kids through college, etc. They also look at the growing federal debt picture and the likelihood of rising taxes to try and pay it off.2025-01-0552 minRetirement 360Naughty or Nice - December 22, 2024Ashley Schneider from the Mercurio office begins the program with a segment concerning certain scenarios of future retirees to determine if they are naughty or nice concerning their planning during this holiday season. Then Alan and Troy take over and review four keys for a solid retirement plan as well as reviewing timeless advice.2024-12-2252 minRetirement 360The Retirement Savings Crisis - December 15, 2024Alan takes a look at a recent AARP study which shows that 20% of adults age 50 and older have NO retirement savings, and taxes might go up to help compensate. Alan takes a further look at this study and delves into why saving and planning for retirement is so important. Later Troy joins him to go over things that should be on anyone's list for putting a retirement plan together, as well as answering listener questions.2024-12-1552 minRetirement 360How Much is the American Dream - December 1, 2024Today Alan and Troy revisit the topic of how much it costs to attain the so-called American Dream lifestyle of a house, family, vacations and retirement, as well as a recent study which showed that cost to be around $4.4 million. Later they take a look at timeless advice from people through the years and how their quotes relate to retirement planning.2024-12-0152 minRetirement 360Balance Your Retirement Portfolio Now - November 3, 2024With growth in certain sectors of your investments, the allocation could get out of balance between stocks, bonds and other elements. Alan and Troy take a look at keeping everything balanced to help keep things in range, as well as determining tax responsibilities.2024-11-0352 minRetirement 360401K Rollover Mistakes - October 20, 2024When you roll over a 401K into an IRA it is done in cash, and people can lose out on the potential of growth if those funds are not reallocated into new funds or investments. Alan and Troy discuss a recent survey by Vanguard indicating that people need to pay attention to this when they do a rollover so they can make sure that money is continuing to grow to provide a more comfortable nest egg to retire with.2024-10-2052 minRetirement 360Retirement Regrets - October 6, 2024Alan and Troy take a look at the results of a recent survey where Americans look at the regrets they have over financial decisions they have made, how they can affect your retirement, and how to work around them. They also revisit the topic of annuities and how they could work in one's retirement plan to help provide guaranteed income.2024-10-0652 minRetirement 360Revisiting Large IRAs - September 29, 2024Troy and Alan revisit planning for large IRAs, which some folks may have built up over years of saving in their company plans.2024-09-2952 minRetirement 360What May Change for Social Security - September 15, 2024Alan and Troy open the show by discussing Social Security and the projected cost of living increase for 2025, among other issues. Later they take a look at topics that should be on your retirement planning list, as well as answer listener questions.2024-09-1552 minRetirement 360Reasons to Fire Your Advisor - September 8, 2024Alan and Troy take a look at when it may be time to change your advisor to one focused on retirement planning, especially when it comes to income and distribution rather than just growth.2024-09-0852 minRetirement 360Get the Facts on Social Security - September 1, 2024Alan and Troy revisit one of the most popular government programs for retirement, Social Security. It's more complicated than it appears on the surface, and the guys take you through the most basic aspects of the program and how you can use it to obtain the most benefits for your situation.2024-09-0552 minRetirement 360Planning For Large IRAs - July 28, 2024People are building up larger 401K and IRA amounts recently, as much as a million dollars or more, and the tax implications on amounts such as these can end up being a high number. Alan and Troy discuss how planning for such large retirement accounts can be beneficial, especially when it comes to tax planning and keeping more money in your pocket, not the government's.2024-07-2852 minRetirement 360Election 2024 - July 21, 2024Alan and Troy look at the upcoming presidential election and react to comments by Jeff Bush of the Washington Insider about taxes and potential tax planning opportunities people can and should take advantage of now before things can change. They also revisit the five aspects of a solid retirement plan.2024-07-2152 minRetirement 360Financial Independence - June 30, 2024Independence Day is coming up for the United States, and Alan and Troy look at the best ways you can provide independence for your retirement plan and the lifestyle you wish to enjoy. They also re-visit the subject of retirement for small business owners and what they can do to make sure their own post-working plans can be successful while transitioning their business to a future generation.2024-06-3052 minRetirement 360Three Stages of Retirement - June 23, 2024Today Troy and Ashley Schneider take a look at the three stages of retirement commonly referred to as the go-go, slow-go and no-go stages, each lasting roughly ten years, and each with its own particular financial needs. Troy and Ashley look at how your money may need to be allocated in each stage as part of an ongoing financial plan.2024-06-2352 minRetirement 360Test Drive Your Retirement - June 16, 2024You test drive cars - why not "test drive" your retirement? Alan and Troy discuss the idea of trying out the lifestyle you have thought about before you actually retire, especially in regards to relocating, getting an RV, or other different routines. Later they discuss the idea of making marginal gains in your retirement investments, and how even small increases can add up big over time.2024-06-1652 minRetirement 360All About Annuities - June 9, 2024Alan and Troy cover one of the most polarizing financial instruments available, the annuity. They look at the various kinds, how they work and how they may fit into a retirement plan to provide guaranteed income for either a set period of time, or a lifetime.2024-06-0952 minRetirement 360Looking At Taxes - May 19, 2024Alan and Troy take a look ahead at upcoming potential tax increases, and how retirees can use tax planning to legally lower the amount of taxes you need to pay if that happens. Later they revisit the three stages of retirement, where retirees will do less activity as their retirement goes along and how their nest egg needs to work in each stage.2024-05-1952 minRetirement 360The National Debt - April 28, 2024Alan and Troy start the show by looking at the fast increasing U.S. national debt and how tax rates are virtually certain to go up to help try to pay it off. Later they revisit creating a solid legacy plan as part of the Retirement 360 Game Plan.2024-04-2852 minRetirement 360Respect Your Elders; Honor Their Legacy - April 21, 2024The show starts with an introduction to Troy Bolton and his background as a financial planner, then Alan joins him to discuss estate and legacy planning and the kinds of things someone needs to know when adding this to their retirement plan.2024-04-2152 minRetirement 360Make Your Money Work For You - April 13, 2024Alan and Troy talk about longevity and how it is important to include the possibility of a long lifespan in a retirement plan. They also take a look back at the importance of making your money work for you in all aspects of retirement.2024-04-1452 minRetirement 360Creating A Lasting Legacy - March 30, 2024Today Alan and Troy look at what constitutes a solid legacy plan that will make sure your wishes are carried out after you're gone.2024-03-3152 minRetirement 360Topics On Your Retirement Planning List - March 24, 2024A recent survey showed that many people age 55 and older either failed or just barely passed a Social Security quiz. Alan and Troy discuss some of the questions on the quiz and present the right information to help people get the most from these benefits. Later they revisit retirement strategies for small business owners.2024-03-2452 minRetirement 360Bon Voyage in Retirement - March 17, 2024When you plan a vacation, you need to get everything in order like passports, tickets and much more. The same thing goes for retirement planning, and today Alan and Troy discuss the things you need to have ready when you want to enjoy retirement life.2024-03-1852 minRetirement 360The Retirement 360 Book - March 3, 2024Troy's book about the Retirement 360 Game Plan is now one year old, and today Alan and Troy continue their special offer to give a copy away along with the Retirement Took Kit that will help you get started on the process of putting a full Retirement 360 Game Plan together with the help of Mercurio Wealth Advisors.2024-03-0352 minRetirement 360More Retirement Issues for 2024 - February 25, 2024Medicare is going up again in 2024, and Alan and Troy discuss how to control how you take your income before they affect your taxes, which could relate to Medicare premiums. They also revisit the subject of making marginal retirement gains on a consistent basis to mitigate market volatility.2024-02-2552 minRetirement 360Make Your Money Work For You - February 18, 2024You have a nice nest egg of retirement savings - but how do you turn that into income, which is what you need first and foremost when you actually retire? Today Alan and Troy take a look of strategies and steps you can take to make sure you have income every month so you can live the lifestyle you want in your post-working years.2024-02-1852 minRetirement 360A Look Ahead - January 28, 2024Alan and Troy start the show by looking at what they see coming for 2024, then they look at planning for the worst case scenarios in retirement if things go off the rails from your original plan.2024-01-2852 minRetirement 360New Things For 2024 - January 7, 2024Today Troy takes a look at things which are changing that you need to know about for the coming year, including new IRS rules, Social Security adjustments and more. Then Alan joins him to revisit how retirement in real life may differ from what someone might imagine it to be beforehand.2024-01-0752 minRetirement 360Top Financial News - December 31, 2023Alan and Troy revisit the top financial news stories of 2023, then look back at legacy planning and how important it could be in your financial plan to make sure what you leave behind goes to who you want it to go to in the most tax efficient way possible.2023-12-3152 minRetirement 360Financial Habits to Break - December 24, 2023With a new year about to start, it's a good time to take stock of your financial plan and get out of bad habits which could derail the timing of your potential retirement. Alan and Troy go over some of these, including not having a budget, not paying attention to fees, and several others.2023-12-2452 minRetirement 360Get the Facts on Social Security - September 3, 2023Alan and Troy break down Social Security and its importance to anyone's retirement income plan, and also address letting a financial professional help determine when the best time to take it would be for your situation. And be listening for a special offer from Mercurio Wealth Advisors for folks to call and get started with a Retirement 360 Scorecard.2023-09-0352 minRetirement 360Retiring Today - January 15, 2023The current retirement environment is not the same as it was for your parents or grandparents. Today Alan and Troy talk about the changes and newer strategies today's retirees need to put a solid plan together. Troy also goes over upcoming seminar dates in the Louisville area.2023-01-1552 minRetirement 360Getting To Know Alan and Troy PLUS Pensions - October 30, 2022This show takes another look at the local pension issues that potential retirees need to make timely decisions on. Plus segments on getting to know the backgrounds of both Alan Mercurio and Troy Bolton.2022-10-3052 minRetirement 360Getting To Know Alan - October 9, 2022In the introductory segment, Alan fills us in on his background in financial services and some of the history of Mercurio Wealth Advisors. Later he and Troy revisit some topics everyone needs to have on their retirement planning checklist.2022-10-0952 minRetirement 360Financial Tool Kit - July 3, 2022Troy talks financial headlines as well as gives a final update on the July 14th mid-year outlook event hosted by Mercurio Wealth Advisors. Then Alan discusses the different financial instruments, or tools, that can be used to create your Retirement 360 Game Plan2022-07-0352 minRetirement 360Headlines and Protected Income - June 18, 2022Today Alan address the coming "Peak 65" when more people will turn age 65 than at any point in U.S. history and what it can mean for those who are planning for retirement. Troy and Alan also address other headlines as well as their State of the Economy seminar on July 14 with two outstanding guest speakers.2022-06-2052 minRetirement 360Retiring Today - June 12, 2022In the opening segment Troy looks at some headlines as well as promoting some major events Mercurio Wealth Advisors will host in the coming weeks. Then Alan revisits the subject of retiring in today's changing environment with few pensions and longer lifespans, and how a written income plan can help make your retirement dollars last so they can provide for your retirement lifestyle as long as they need to.2022-06-1252 minRetirement 360Retiring Today - May 21, 2022Troy begins the program by talking about his background in financial services and how he became involved with Mercurio Wealth Advisors. Then Alan discusses how retiring in today's financial environment is so much different from just a few years ago, especially in regards to how the reduction in pensions and the rise of 401Ks and other self funded investment instruments have changed how people need to save for retirement to assure the lifestyle they want to have after their working years are over.2022-05-2352 minRetirement 360Planning For The Future Together - March 26, 2022After Troy Bolton looks at recent financial news, Alan takes a look at estate and legacy planning, and making sure that the kids and estate executors know what the plan is supposed to be so that things will be taken care of as desired.2022-03-2852 minRetirement 360The Client Experience - February 26, 2022What is it like to come into a financial planning office? Today Alan takes you through that experience with Mercurio Wealth Advisors, from the moment you first make contact through the process of putting a Game Plan together all the way through implementing that plan once it is agreed upon.2022-02-2752 min
Retirement 360How to know if your Retirement is on track!How to know if your Retirement is on track! by Alan Mercurio2021-08-1352 min
Retirement 360Retirement 360 Mistakes to avoid in RetirementRetirement 360 Mistakes to avoid in Retirement by Alan Mercurio2021-07-0252 min
Retirement 360Retirement 360 06 - 26 - 21 Segment 1Retirement 360 06 - 26 - 21 Segment 1 by Alan Mercurio2021-07-0226 min
Retirement Coach's CornerEp 1: Get to Know Alan Mercurio and Troy BoltonOn this episode of Retirement Coach’s Corner, get to know our team a little better. Alan Mercurio is the founder and chief financial officer at Mercurio Wealth Advisors, and Troy Bolton is a senior wealth advisor with the company. Read more and get additional financial resources here: https://mercurioadvisors.com/podcast/episode-1-get-to-know-alan-mercurio-and-troy-bolton/ What we discuss on this episode: 1:15 – What does being a financial advisor mean to you? 6:15 – What does the financial planning process look like? 10:07 – Why do you work and live in Louisville? 12:17...2021-04-0117 min
Retirement 360A Lesson From BaseballThe baseball playoff's are underway, so we're giving you a sports analogy tied into your financial planning. When you’re trying to figure how much money you’ll need in retirement, the first question is – how many years do you think you’ll need to pay for? Unfortunately, we can only guess at that number. Alan Mercurio and Morningstar’s David Blanchett say most of us are not very good guessers… they give us some tips on how to handle this question while designing a financial plan.2020-10-0252 min
Retirement 360Best Of Alan Mercurio | Mercurio Wealth AdvisorsThis week we go back in time to some of our favorite segments from the beginning of the year until now. Alan weighs in on some important financial topics and continues his stance on transparency and education when it comes to retirement planning.2020-07-0652 min
Retirement 360Do You Really Spend More During Retirement?This Sunday, tune in to Retirement360 with MWA advisor Alan Mercurio and host, Randy Cook, as they take on the latest tending news. Are you planning to celebrate Bobby Bonilla Day? Better yet, did you know that even though he retired from baseball in 2001, Bobby Bonilla still receives a check for $1,193,248.20 from the New York Mets on the first of every July? Are you receiving the right financial advice for your retirement? Forbes says the financial advice people use in their working years is not necessarily the best choice to help them as they approach retirement. What advice are you...2019-07-1552 min
Retirement 360Have you completed a "Stress Test"This Sunday, tune in to Retirement360 with MWA advisor Alan Mercurio and host, Randy Cook, as they take on the latest tending news. How much of of your salary do you need to save? 10 times or even 16 times? Are the writers at Motley Fool correct? What and who are you supposed to believe? Have you done a "Stress Test" on your retirement plan, and what does that entail? And, how does citizenship play a role in your taxes? New Royal baby, Archie, could face an interesting dilemma.2019-05-2026 min
Retirement 360Do you ACTUALLY have a plan in place?Often, we at MWA discuss the term Retirement Plan. Your Retirement Plan is unique to you, your goals, your needs, and your family's wants. There are ways to achieve these goals, and there are some myths that need to be addressed because they may not be the most viable options. This week on Retirement360, MWA advisor Alan Mercurio and host, Randy Cook, highlight some common fallacies on securing your retirement goal: •Relying on your home as a source of income •Only relying on Social Security •Relying on lottery winnings •Relying on inheritance from a deceased relative2019-05-1352 min
Retirement 360Retirement 360 - Best of Alan MercurioCheck in with Louisville's Retirement Coach, Alan Mercurio, and his friends as they discuss news and how it may affect your planning.2019-05-0652 min
Retirement 360When to Meet an AdvisorThis week on Retirement360, MWA advisor Alan Mercurio and host, Randy Cook, dive in to the importance of finding the right financial advisor and why you would consider meeting one sooner rather than later. At MWA, we focus on education and the necessary steps families need to take to make sure their retirement is sound. Planning for retirement is more than taking your last of work - it is ensuring your life becomes what you want, not what it has to be. Learning about investments, insurance, Social Security timing, tax preparation and having an estate plan all tie together for...2019-04-2952 min
Retirement 360Financial Planning and Netflix?Are financial services moving towards a Netflix-like subscription model? Maybe. Schwab had recently announced it will charge a $30 monthly fee for "unlimited advisory services, and automatic trades." While this might sound appealing to some, these clients will not have the benefit of custom planning, income planning or tax and estate planning. Robo Advisors might be easier - but are they better? This week on Retirement360 MWA advisor, Alan Mercurio, and host, Randy Cook, discuss new trends as companies (and the government) grow and develop with their retired audience. What worked in the past, might now be the best option for...2019-04-1552 min
Retirement 360Taxes - Pensions - And knowing your Risks!Taxes - Pensions - And knowing your Risks! by Alan Mercurio2019-04-0153 min
Retirement 360Retirement 360 Last Minute Tax TipsThis week on Retirement360, MWA advisor Alan Mercurio returns with host, Randy Cook and they take on one last trick before you file your taxes - putting money away in your traditional IRA and it will still count for last year. How is it possible? You'll soon find out! Personal finance guru, Suze Orman, says it's not the first 10-15 years of retirement that should concern you, its the following 10-15 years. Alan and Randy discuss strategies to making your retirement last.2019-03-2552 min
Retirement 360Taxes and being the BeneficiaryThis week on Retirement360, MWA advisor Troy Bolton and host, Randy Cook are talking taxes - but with a focus on what to do when YOU are the beneficiary. Many families will set up tax efficient legacies for your loved ones, but what happens when you inherit a 401(k)? How do you roll over the assets? How can you prolong RMDs? And most importantly, how do you navigate the taxes? We often discuss the importance of a good retirement plan and it is more than just income. Troy and Randy determine the 5 elements to make sure you are set for...2019-03-1826 min
Retirement 360The three things you need to knowThis week on Retirement360 MWA advisor Alan Mercurio and host, Randy Cook take on three of the biggest concerns facing retirees today: Social Security, taxes and advisor fees. An easy way to maximize your SSI benefit is to simply wait it out and withdraw as late as possible. However, waiting until you are 70 is not always the best option for some families. Alan and Randy tackle the thought process of selecting the best approach to start receiving your benefits. As April 15th approaches, many families are filing taxes and meeting with their CPAs. Do you have a "Tax Bomb" lurking...2019-03-1152 min
Retirement 3602019 Best of Alan Mercurio2019 Best of Alan Mercurio by Alan Mercurio2019-03-0453 min
Retirement 360Is Your Plan Obsolete?This week Mercurio Wealth Advisors Founder and President, Alan Mercurio, and host Randy Cook, discuss the importance of knowing your Risk Tolerance. What is Risk Tolerance? It is the ebb and flows you feel secure taking with the swings of the market. Almost everyone feels secure when the market climbs, but what when it dips? How much of your investment are you to miss? Knowing your Risk Tolerance is paramount to your overall planning strategy. This sets a bar that will intersect with all other saving strategies. In addition to knowing the importance of your Risk Tolerance, is your planning...2019-02-2553 min
Retirement 360Retiring harder today?Retiring harder today? by Alan Mercurio2019-01-2252 minRetirement 360Navigating VolatilityIf you could protect your wealth in turbulent times - would you do it? Or, would you ride out the waves of the stock market? Do the ebbs and flows match your risk tolerance? Are you concerned about future income should there be a downturn in the market? This week, MWA advisor, Alan Mercurio, and host Randy Cook, discuss the pressing questions of market volatility and how someone can still come out on top, or at least ride the wave.2019-01-1452 min
Retirement 360Control: How to Manage Your Accounts in a Volatile MarketAs the markets move up and down, our office is fielding phone calls and meetings with everyone wanting to know - what do I do to control my savings? If you are considering adjusting your 401k and moving in to a different style account, what will that take? Will it spare you or add new fees? Will it adjust your taxes? Are there accounts that can offer protection and growth? This week, MWA advisor, Alan Mercurio and host, Randy Cook, discuss options to lessen the unpredictability of the stock market, and to consider exploring different options so you can continue...2018-12-3153 min
Retirement 360Taking the leapSome say retirement is harder today than it was 5 years ago. People fear having to stop working. Families want to grow and protect their savings with little risk. Your income plan is not set and you are not sure where your retirement income will actually come from? Sound familiar? When there is fear, or a problem, there is often a solution. Meeting with an advisor if only once, or meeting with your advisor regularly, can ease the tension in knowing how your savings are doing, how to make your savings work for you, and how your savings match up against...2018-12-2649 min
Retirement 360Roller Coaster MarketsThis week MWA advisor, Alan Mercurio, and host, Randy Cook, discuss securing your planning throughout a rollercoaster market. What is a Yield Curve? What are tools and strategies to protect your wealth? How does inflation affect my savings?2018-12-1749 min
Retirement 360How long will the money lastHow many people do you in their 80's? 90's? Even living to 100? This week, MWA advisor, Alan Mercurio, and host, Randy Cook, discuss what it takes to make your assets last and have longevity. Many retirees know that once you stop workin, you ought to have a plan - does your income plan accommodate for family emergencies? Does your plan take in to account for market corrections? How can you structure your plan to sync all the facets of your retired life to make it last 20, or 30 years AFTER you retire?2018-12-1049 min
Retirement 360Financial FOMOFOMO: The fear of missing out. Whether you are caught up in the endless financial news cycle, or constant watching the stock tickers, it is easy to get swept in the hype of markets, products, and what your neighbor is doing. If you go down 9% this month, but grew by 239% over the last years, is there need to panic? Just because a talking head on TV is calling for fire and brimstone, the main thing to do is NOT panic and simply call a fiduciary. This week, MWA advisor Alan Mercurio, and host, Randy Cook, will dive into how to...2018-11-1951 min
Retirement 360Understanding Market CorrectionsWhat is a "Market Pullback" and what action should you consider? MWA Advisor, Alan Mercurio and host, Randy Cook, delve in to the details of what to look for, how to understand the highs and lows, and choices you should consider within your portfolio. Always speak with your trusted fiduciary before making any new plans. Should you make changes in your portfolio - do you know how the fees are assigned and how much you may pay over a lifetime? If you add up ATMs, checking, savings, IRA, 401k and other investing…the real number is closer to $369,000.00! Does this nu...2018-10-2949 min
Retirement 360Offence or Defense?When it comes to growing your money - should you play offense or defense? MWA advisor, Alan Mercurio and host, Randy Cook, tackle the pros and cons of both. A defense cannot earn more money, you cannot just save your way to wealth. They touch on 3 steps to playing a smart offense for growth: Set a goal. Determine your financial target. Income. Who’s got your money? Find where it is so you can get it. Earn it. Invest. Find something to invest in that will reproduce money. That said, playing a smart defense and setting up certain protections and in...2018-10-1549 min
Retirement 360Are You Asking Yourself the RIGHT questions?Are You Asking Yourself the Right Questions? Self-reflection is necessary for your planning - but are you asking yourself the right questions? What do you look forward to the most during retirement? How long will your retirement last? How much will retirement cost? How much will you need to save to reach your retirement goals? How much of your retirement nest egg can you afford to spend each year? Answering these items - let alone planning for them can be a daunting task. By working with a financial professional, a trusted advisor can lead you in the right direction. This...2018-09-2448 min
Retirement 360The Guessing and The Complete Retirement 360 Game PlanThis week, MWA advisor, Troy Bolton, and host, Randy Cook, discuss the Guessing Game: When is the Best Time to Retire? And, that is not an easy question to answer because it is so personal to the individuals and the needs of their home and family. At MWA, we bring all our guests and clients onboard with the Retirement 360 Game Plan. The plan includes the following evaluations: Complete analysis of your current investment strategy •Where is your money placed? •Are you properly diversified? •Are you at risk of losing if the market takes a turn? •Are you paying excessive fees? Income p...2018-09-1048 min
Retirement 360Leaving a LegacyFor many, leaving a legacy to your spouse, family or charity is built within your long term planning. But more than just assigning a beneficiary, your legacy will need to project market inflation, routine audits and even thinking outside the box of just your assigning your assets. Mercurio Advisor, Alan will chat with host, Tony Vanetti and go over ways to maintain and grow your legacy, account for market changes, and even add items like your airline miles!2018-07-3049 min
Retirement 360Forecasting the Future?There is no crystal ball, there are no tea leaves and there are no fortune tellers to fully explain what the future holds. But families, with the help of their advisors, can prepare for both the blue and grey skies when it comes to protecting and growing their assets. In retirement, you will need to navigate where that future paycheck will come from, and ensure it will last as long as it needs too. Is a lifetime income possible? Yes. Will it need modifications along the way? Yes, especially should there be new tax changes that will affect your assets...2018-07-2349 min
Retirement 360What am I supposed to do?It is a fairly simple question but unfortunately, the answer can be long, complicated and layered. Retirement planning is different for everyone and for every family. No one solution is exactly applicable even if situations are similar. Investing in the stock market might yield greater rewards than a low-index fund, but your openness to risk is also much higher. Men and women invest differently, so who is the driving force in your family's planning, and are all needs being met? Is your advisor advocating for the both of you equally and or are they applying a cure-all to both partners...2018-07-0249 min
Retirement 360Never promise more than you can perform. - Publilius SyrusSounds reasonable, right? If you promise a friend the wedding cake of their dreams but show up with a box of lumpy cupcakes and a faltering smile…someone’s not going to have a good day. Ever been on a trip and the driver assures you that they “know a shortcut” to bypass traffic that ends up getting you three hours off-schedule? Maybe you’ve taken on a big project at work before, confident that you could exceed expectations, but slowly find yourself struggling just to keep your head above the sea of work you’ve stranded yourself in. The problem acro...2018-06-2549 min
Retirement 360Father's Day Special - Still listening to his advice?On this Father’s Day, consider this: “My father had taught me – mostly by example—that if a man wanted to be in charge of his life, he had to be in charge of his problems.” The line comes from Joyland, a novel penned by one of the famous masters of horror, Stephen King. A father of three himself, King’s characters are known for facing down their problems—albeit often in the form of a killer clown or murderous Plymouth Fury. Most of us grew up with a father that was a solid rock to rely on when bills started piling...2018-06-1848 min
Retirement 360Jobs Report Calms VolatilityWith summer finally here after our extended winter season, most of us are hitting the lake or hopping on an airplane to far-off lands (or Florida, which we’ll still say is far-off.) Have you ever thought about how much planning really goes into a vacation? There’s tickets to buy, suitcases to pack, pet sitters to arrange, and a whole host of to-do activities before you can set off. Whether you’re a fit-it-all-in-one-backpack type or playing Tetris to fit all 6 of your suitcases into your car’s trunk, all of us have a game plan for our getaways. This wee...2018-06-1148 min
Retirement 360Stocks Up, Signals Mixed"An investment in knowledge pays the best interest. " -Benjamin Franklin. Education is paramount as you begin and maintain your retirement planning. The more you can learn, they better you and your family can better prepare. This week's radio show will feature MWA advisor's Alan Mercurio, Troy Bolton and also host, Tony Vanetti as they discuss how to avoid the “tax time bomb” with your investments. At what age should you begin your retirement planning? And, preparing for the shift from working full time to full time retirement.2018-06-0447 min
Retirement 360Tackling Trade & Treasuries"Everything old is new again." This week's radio show will feature a "Best of Retirement 360" highlights with MWA advisor's Alan Mercurio, Troy Bolton and also host, Tony Vanetti. They discuss the importance and need for a financial advisor, that just maybe following your parent's advice on financial issues may not be the best idea, how to navigate volatility, and what you can expect with the 2018 tax plan - will filing actually be easier?2018-05-3046 min
Retirement 360Markets Post Week of GrowthThe stock market can be a complex creature to understand. You might have incredible gains for a few years, and then suddenly in a few months you’ve lost all that success through a bad market. There’s an old saying that paints the market as an escalator, steadily climbing in the good years….yet it may suddenly transform into a plummeting elevator, ruining all the upward progress you just had. This week on Retirement 360 with Kentuckiana’s Retirement Coach Alan Mercurio and Wealth Advisor Troy Bolton, we’re going to discuss how having your entire nest egg on that upward ele...2018-05-2149 min
Retirement 360Examining EmploymentHumorist Erma Bombeck once penned in her weekly newspaper column that, “When your mother asks, ‘Do you want a piece of advice?’ it is a mere formality. It doesn’t matter if you answer yes or no. You’re going to get it anyway.” As many of us celebrate our mothers this coming Sunday, think back to a time you received motherly words of wisdom—requested or not. Insight given across the dinner table or yelled from wooden porches as streetlights began to brighten can stick with us for decades, and might even have a place in your retirement planning. This week on R...2018-05-1449 min
Retirement 360Earnings Rise, Stocks StumbleWith Derby right around the corner, many of us will spend this week gearing up for the big show on Saturday—even if all that means is sipping on Mint Juleps and eating Derby pie at in front of your TV. Thousands both on and off the track will be watching to see which swift equine competitor will be the first to cross the finish line. One thing you can be sure of regardless of where you watch is that the participants—both horse and human—have put in hundreds of hours in training, planning, and commitment just to get a plac...2018-05-0747 min
Retirement 360Examining Earnings & YieldsFounder and President, Alan Mercurio speaks with the host, Tony Vanetti. They cover topics like following the same financial footsteps as your parents, filing taxes, creating a secure plan that strikes back at volatility, and what to expect for healthcar costs.2018-04-3047 min
Retirement 3602018 Q1 ReportThink of all the times you've put together a plan. Small things need a plan--a house project you swore you'd get to next summer, a fancy cake to impress your family at Thanksgiving. I'm sure you planned for the bigger tasks in life as well-what career you wanted, when to buy a house, whether to have kids or not. Did things always go according to the plan you originally set out? For most of us, the answer is a resounding, "No." What if you landed your dream job and ended up discovering you fit better elsewhere? Maybe the fancy cake...2018-04-1646 min
Retirement 360Markets IncreaseAs springtime gradually makes its appearance in the Kentuckiana area, many of us have started to think about what house projects we want to get done before winter comes around again. You've probably seen one of the many fix-it-up housing shows that have had a huge boost in popularity in recent years. The idea is generally the same across the board: a couple or a team of people purchase a "fixer upper" house. In the span of an hour the group rapidly transforms a rickety shack, run-down two-story, or cheerless split level into a housing masterpiece. While it's fun to...2018-04-0946 min
Retirement 360A Look BackAmerican actor John Wayne once said that, "Courage is being scared to death, but saddling up anyway." Most of us remember Wayne as one of the biggest stars of Western film in the 20th century, perpetually seated on horseback and riding off to fight the latest bad guy in a countless number of films. While well-known now, Wayne started off as a nobody. He picked up gigs as an extra throughout the 1920s and didn't hit in big until 1939 as Ringo Kid in Stagecoach. That's nearly twenty years of being paid peanuts to pursue his dream in the movies. Wayne...2018-03-2649 min
Retirement 360Goldilocks ReturnsWith spring just around the corner (if you pay no mind to the random snow we've been gifted the past few weeks), you'll find lots of things will be popping up soon. Flowers, Derby hats, allergies, and better weather are all bound to start making their appearances in the coming months---along with our beloved spring cleaning chores. While most of us are content to "get to it later" when it comes to house chores in the winter, we end up facing the music when springtime comes around. It might be tempting to adopt a winter attitude towards your financial health...2018-03-1947 min
Retirement 360Volatile Markets ContinueAnyone who has begun even the preliminary stages of retirement planning knows that you're going to have to face some challenges. Even just thinking about not having the promise of that weekly paycheck to get your bills paid can be worrying. But, as writer T.S. Eliot once wrote, "If you aren't in over your head, how do you know how tall you are?" Retirement is something that has so many facets playing into it that it's impossible to just "wing it" and try for a quick band-aid solution. While it might be overwhelming to face down, your future self...2018-03-1447 min
Retirement 360Interest Rates, Treasuries, and InflationWith tax season in full swing, many of us have our minds on our finances. This is the time of the year we reflect back on how things went for us-good and bad-in the markets. For those nearing retirement, it becomes an even more critical period as you approach the finish line of your working years. What we have in our pensions, 401(k)s, IRAs, and even just your savings account suddenly starts to matter a lot when we begin looking at replacing a paystub with money from our own investments. This can be overwhelming, sometimes even downright scary to...2018-03-0547 min
Retirement 360Interest Rates, Treasuries, and InflationWith tax season in full swing, many of us have our minds on our finances. This is the time of the year we reflect back on how things went for us-good and bad-in the markets. For those nearing retirement, it becomes an even more critical period as you approach the finish line of your working years. What we have in our pensions, 401(k)s, IRAs, and even just your savings account suddenly starts to matter a lot when we begin looking at replacing a paystub with money from our own investments. This can be overwhelming, sometimes even downright scary to...2018-02-2747 min
Retirement 360Special Update: Understanding VolatilityWhen we're younger, we learn a hard lesson: life doesn't offer any solid guarantees. We can't hold up a signed contract when we lose the Little League game, or it rains on our birthdays, jabbing a finger at a spot where life promised us exactly what we wanted. Keep in mind this isn't always a bad thing either. Haven't we all just known something would go badly, but instead turns out okay? Just as we don't have any guarantees for something going right, we aren't guaranteed for things to go wrong either. It's a two-sided coin, and one we can't...2018-02-1947 min
Retirement 360Markets Slide as Bond Yields RiseWith the recent market turbulence that’s been occurring off-and-on during the past week, this might be a good thought to think on: “Consider the postage stamp: its usefulness consists in the ability to stick to one thing ‘til it gets there.” Penned by American humorist Josh Billings, it’s a quote that can apply to many aspects of life. Do you pull your steak off the grill when it’s halfway cooked? Or get partway through a job at work and then never finish up? What about a house project—would you paint half of your house, and then decide that’s...2018-02-1325 min
Retirement 360Stocks Jump AgainWith the big game coming up this weekend, a good majority of the nation's focus will be glued to their screens either watching the game or waiting for the halftime show to roll around. Snacks will be purchased, couches arranged for optimal viewing, and schedules cleared to fully enjoy the day. Amid all the snacking and quirky commercials though, there is something that many rarely think about. For the players, this is a day they have worked towards for years, probably even to back when they were first digging their cleats into a muddy high school field. Both teams are...2018-02-0547 min
Retirement 360Stocks Up as Shutdown LoomsThe experience of worrying is, at one time or another, something we all go through. I don't mean casual uncertainties either- did they remember I said no tomatoes on my sandwich? Did I pack everything for the trip? Is it going to rain during a birthday party? Those concerns are usually just thoughts that pass by us in the day. Real worries are things that stick with you for months, sometimes years. We try and think through them, come up with a band-aid solution to buy us some time, or maybe even just stick them in a corner hoping they'll...2018-01-3047 min
Retirement 360Retirement 360 Best Of 2017On the last weekend of the year - Retirement 360 with Louisville's Retirement Coach Alan Mercurio and host Tony Vanetti, will look back at some of the highlights that earned our greatests responses from listeners like you!2018-01-0247 min
Retirement 360True Meaning Of FiduciaryWhen most people go to the grocery, they don't pick food marked as "suitable". The word "suitable" in and of itself gives off the air of something being just okay-not the worst, but not the best either. We all strive to have the best of whatever we're after in life-we aim for the highest of what we can afford and attain, rather than setting our sights on sub-par quality. For years though, many retirement agencies have just had to abide by something called the "suitability standard". This standard-as I'm sure you can guess-meant that the advisor didn't necessarily have to...2017-06-2743 min