WATCH: Q1 Market and Economic Update with Brian Burton and John Boardman
In this quarter’s update, Ballast, Inc. CIO Brian Burton sits down to answer the questions we’ve been hearing most from clients over the last two months. What’s kept markets strong? What’s happening with Bitcoin and gold? Is AI still a real story or just a really expensive one? And why is everyone suddenly talking […]
Safeguard Assets: Asset Protection Essentials for Doctors
For doctors, years of training, long hours, and personal sacrifice culminate in a rewarding profession, but also in increased visibility and liability. Asset protection isn’t about expecting the worst; it’s about planning wisely so your life’s work remains secure. Start with malpractice insurance The first and often most powerful line of defense. Carry robust […]
Investing at Stock Market All-Time Highs: What to Do When the S&P 500 and Dow Hit Records
As the S&P 500 approaches 7,000 and the Dow Jones nears 50,000 in early 2026, many investors are wondering: Is now the time to sell? Stock market all-time highs often trigger anxiety, but historical data reveals a surprising truth about investing during record-breaking periods. This article explains why market peaks are a normal part of […]
2026 Retirement Contribution Limits
Happy New Year! There have been a few changes to retirement contribution limits for 2026. 401(k) Contribution Limits for 2026 For 2026, the 401(k) contribution limit has increased to $24,500, up from $23,000 in 2025. This increase allows employees to boost their tax-advantaged retirement savings and accelerate long-term wealth building. IRA Contribution Limits for 2026 […]
WATCH: Do I Need a Trust?
In December’s webinar, Frank Yozwiak and Andy Renolds answer the common question: “Should I have a trust? Should my estate plan include this?” They answer everything from the basics (“What is a trust?”) to how you can implement it into your financial plan. Watch the conversation above for more! Want More? Sign […]
Ballast Welcomes Two New Team Members: Catherine Richmond and Madelyn Mozeleski
Ballast, an independent, employee-owned financial planning and investment management firm, is proud to announce the addition of two new team members: Catherine Richmond, joining as a Financial Advocate, and Madelyn Mozeleski, joining as a Financial Planning Intern. Catherine Richmond brings a wealth of analytical experience and a strong client-centered approach to her role. After earning […]
Physician Retirement Planning: 5 Steps to Retire with Confidence
Physician retirement planning should feel exciting, not unsettling. Yet for many physicians, the idea of stepping away from clinical work, a steady paycheck, and a familiar routine can feel overwhelming. After decades focused on patients, family, and building financial security, how do you transition into retirement with clarity and confidence? Physician retirement planning presents unique […]
Should I Consider a Trust?
Trusts can be powerful tools for families across the financial spectrum to protect and manage assets, care for loved ones, and potentially realize generational tax savings. They can also provide privacy by avoiding public probate, and customized asset distribution, such as for health, education, maintenance, and support. For those with minor children, a trust can […]
Liquidity & Exit Planning
For many business owners, the sale of their company is a once-in-a-lifetime event that creates a sudden and significant infusion of wealth. While exciting, this new liquidity also presents both challenges and opportunities. To navigate the transition effectively, owners should address five critical questions. First, what is my after-tax liquidity? The headline number from a […]
Guest Commentary: Jeffrey Gehring on Estate Law and Planning
Jeffrey L. Gehring Dickinson Wright PLLC 300 W. Vine Street, Suite 1700 Lexington, KY 40507 (859) 899-8713 jgehring@dickinson-wright.com Personal & Professional Journey What inspired you to pursue a career in estate law, and what has kept you passionate about it over the years? I really love the intersection of the technical rules related to […]
Case Study: Building a Legacy
The Power of a Multi-Generational Family Financial Plan In today’s complex and fast-paced financial environment, families with substantial assets face a critical question: How can we ensure that our wealth not only endures, but also empowers future generations? The answer lies in the thoughtful design and disciplined execution of a multi-generational financial plan. For high-net-worth […]
Managing a Household Allocation
One of our mantras in planning is to “Know What You Own.” Peter Lynch popularized this term during his management of a Fidelity mutual fund in the 1980’s, and we think it applies to more than just investments. Your home, your health insurance, your business, and yes, your investments each have features, risks, and opportunities […]