The Difference Between the CFP® and CFA Certifications
Find out the key differences and specialties of a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® and a Chartered Financial Analyst
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Education
4 Tips to Seamlessly Transition Platforms Today
Thinking of switching platforms, but not sure if it is the right time? While the COVID-19 pandemic has certainly changed the way business is conducted, many pre-pandemic best practices for successfully transitioning platforms still ring true.
5 Tips to Find the Perfect Office Space
After helping dozens of financial advisors breakout of the wirehouse and hang up their own shingle, Scott Wilson and his team at Kestra Private Wealth Services have learned a few things when it comes to finding the right office space.
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Behind the Scenes at Bespoke Investment Group
The man. The myth. The legend. Yes, folks, we are talking about THE Paul Hickey, Co-Founder of Bespoke Investment Group.
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How to Effectively Set Goals for Your Business
As a new year begins, it’s natural that you’d want to spend time reflecting on the progress you made toward reaching your goals over the previous year.
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How to Market to Your Business: The Right Way
The combined effort of digital technology and branding directives resulted in new growth strategies which increased revenue 15% year over year.
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Markets in a Minute: Economic Growth
The economy grew at a torrid pace in the first half of the year. While the second half will likely see some slowing, earnings should continue to grow, partly offset by a contraction in multiples.
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Markets in a Minute: Cryptocurrency
Cryptocurrencies have generated a lot of interest among investors, yet they're still something of an enigma. They're also a controversial asset class with a wide range of potential outcomes for investors. Read more in the latest Markets in a Minute on cryptocurrencies.
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Markets in a Minute: Quarterly Review & Outlook
In the third quarter of 2022, the S&P 500’s bear market reached ten months old, the Fed continued to tighten monetary policy as inflation accelerated, and recession predictions filled news headlines. With stocks and bonds down more than 25% and 15%, respectively, so far this year, 2022 is shaping up to be one of the more painful years in recent memory. These down markets, though they feel treacherous, present disciplined investors with opportunities for long-term growth.
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Markets in a Minute: Supply Chains
The pandemic has been blamed for disrupting the global supply chain and stoking inflationary pressures. But other issues have contributed to our supply chain woes. Read about the reasons for supply chain disruptions and where we go from here in the latest Markets in a Minute.
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Markets in a Minute: The R-Word — Are We in a Recession?
Are we headed toward a recession? The answer is, we’ll get there… eventually. Read on for the “road signs” that can help us estimate when we might arrive and what we can do before we get there.
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Markets in a Minute: Bonds
Despite low rates, rising inflation fears and tight credit spreads, bonds still play an important role in investors’ portfolios. Certain types of fixed-income instruments are actually designed to protect against inflation. Read about the reasons for continuing to invest in fixed income in the latest Markets in a Minute.
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Markets in a Minute: Vegas, Baby: Investing vs. Gambling
Is investing in the stock market just like gambling in Las Vegas? While the answer to that question is a hard “no,” most investors don’t make the best of their investment odds. Read on to learn how you can improve your chances.
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Markets in a Minute: Inflation, Goldilocks, and the Fed
With lower-than-expected inflation in the month of October, we may all be wondering if there are brighter economic days ahead. Read more about the impact of inflation and Fed rate increases on the economy in this week’s Markets in a Minute.
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Markets in a Minute: Crypto vs. Back to Basics?
The recent failure of crypto-related business such as FTX has highlighted a void in regulatory oversight in the digital currency world. Read more about why a back to basics approach may serve investors best in our latest Markets in a Minute.
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Markets in a Minute: Quantitative Easing
The Fed has entered one of the most-difficult phases of its pandemic response as it begins to dial back stimulus measures even before the full effects of its policies are felt and amid new risks. Read my latest Markets In A Minute for a look under the monetary-policy hood and the implications for the markets and the economy.
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Markets in a Minute: Climate Change
Climate action is front and center for both the Biden administration and many of the world’s largest companies. Read my latest Markets in a Minute for a look at the opportunities and obstacles in the race to a clean-energy future and the implications for investors.
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Markets in a Minute: Investing in an Inflationary Environment
History offers insight as to how market dynamics can shift during periods of high inflation. Read my latest Markets in a Minute for a look at which sectors shined during the Great Inflation and other lessons that may help investors navigate today’s inflationary environment.
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Markets in a Minute: Inflation
With inflation hotter than expected and spreading beyond pandemic-affected industries, the Fed appears poised to take more aggressive steps to rein in price increases. What does that mean for stocks? Read my latest Markets In a Minute for a look at how equities have performed during previous rate-hiking cycles.
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Markets in a Minute: Crisis in Ukraine
The Russian invasion of Ukraine has humanitarian and geopolitical consequences but what are the implications for the global economy and equities? My latest Markets in a Minute explores this question and more.
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Markets in a Minute: War in Ukraine
With the war in Ukraine approaching its one-month mark and inflationary pressures rising, many investors are asking: What’s there to feel good about? The Fed is mulling the same question as it contemplates its next steps. My latest Markets in a Minute offers some answers.
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Markets in a Minute: Fixed Income
Buffeted by twin headwinds — rising interest rates and high inflation — the fixed-income market is off to a rough start this year. In the current climate, many investors may be tempted to forgo fixed income entirely. Read about the reasons for continuing to invest in bonds in the latest Markets in a Minute.
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Markets in a Minute: Liquid Alternatives
Is it time to consider diversifying beyond stocks and bonds when building portfolios for the next decade? Read the latest Markets in a Minute to learn why liquid alternative funds might provide an important buffer for portfolios in the coming years.
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Markets in a Minute: 2022 First Quarter Review & Outlook
A bruising first quarter for stocks and bonds begs the question: Are markets signaling a recession in 2022, or a downshifting from the torrid growth of 2021? We continue to be in the downshifting camp. Read the latest Markets in a Minute for a recap of first-quarter performance and our outlook for the balance of this year.
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Markets in a Minute: Market Volatility
Stock and bond markets have had a wild ride. What’s driving this recent volatility and what’s an investor to do? Read the latest Markets in a Minute for a back-to-basics playbook for volatile markets.
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Markets in a Minute: What’s Next for the Housing Market?
Lofty prices and higher mortgage rates are beginning to shake the foundation of the single-family housing market. Are we headed for a 2008-style correction? Read the latest Markets in a Minute for our take on what’s next.
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Markets in a Minute: Upside of Down Markets
What’s there to like about a down market? Several things, actually. Read the latest Markets in a Minute to learn about opportunities to potentially enhance long-term returns, reduce portfolio risk and lower your tax bill when markets take a turn for the worse.
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Markets in a Minute: Mid-Year Review & Outlook
So far, 2022 has brought surges in inflation fueled by war in Europe, monetary tightening and slower economic growth. As we pass midyear, many of us may be more than a little ready to forget about the first half. Our 2022 theme of downshifting, or slowing of growth, is certainly coming to fruition.
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Markets in a Minute: Will the Inflation Reduction Act Actually Reduce Inflation?
The Inflation Reduction Act, which has been signed by the president and has passed the House, has been heralded as a major legislative victory for the Democratic party. But will it really matter for the economy or the markets? Read the latest Markets in a Minute to learn more.
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Markets in a Minute: Infrastructure Bill Passed
Last week brought disturbing news on the pandemic front, but we were also reminded that our political system can still tackle big issues. The Senate gave overwhelming bipartisan approval to a $1 trillion infrastructure bill that must still pass the House. What does this breakthrough mean for the markets and the U.S. fiscal outlook?
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Markets in a Minute: Recession? Does it matter?
As economic growth cools and inflation heats up, we are hearing more about recessions. in this week's Markets in a Minute, we talk recession and what’s happening with the latest GDP report.
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Markets in a Minute: Pandemic Challenges
The lingering pandemic has exacted a real – and tragic – human toll. But it also gives the Federal Reserve some room to continue its easy monetary policy. Last week brought further confirmation of that.
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Markets in a Minute: Stock vs. Bond Volatility
With a war in Europe, sky-high energy prices, recession fears, intensifying political divisions, and an on-going global pandemic, it’s no wonder that both stocks and bonds have experienced large gyrations so far this year. In this week’s Markets in a Minute, we discuss what volatility among stocks and bonds means for your portfolio.
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Markets in a Minute: High Liquidity is Key
With equity valuations near historic highs, where does the market go from here? While headwinds are likely to keep near-term returns muted, the massive liquidity still working its way through the economy and strong corporate profit margins should provide a tailwind for growth and earnings.
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Markets in a Minute: Commodities & Housing
As the S&P 500’s bear market completes its ninth month, two areas of the economy have experienced rapid changes: commodity price spikes coupled with impending shortages and a housing boom that is quickly petering out. How serious are these risks to the global economy and markets? Let’s discuss in this week’s Markets in a Minute.
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Markets in a Minute: Debt Ceiling
The current showdown in Congress over raising the debt ceiling has high economic stakes. But it’s worth recalling that we’ve been down this road before, and the federal government has always managed to find a path forward, if not without some short-term fallout.
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Podcasting Series: The Case for Getting Started
With so many platforms vying for our attention, podcasts are one of the most powerful tools available for wealth professionals to connect with clients and prospects.
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Using Marketing as a Growth Engine for Business
In his latest blog post, Bluespring Wealth Partners' President Stuart Silverman explains how Ted Jenkin CEO and cofounder of oXYGen Financial accomplishes continuous growth with his marketing strategy.
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Kestra Scores $600M NYC Firm
Borger Financial Services made the move from Hornor, Townsend & Kent for more flexibility and access to alternatives.
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Summer Interns Are Settling In - How to Make Them Winners
Read insights from Kestra Financial Chief Human Resources Officer Ann Manal on creating a successful summer internship program.
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3 Ways Grandparents Can Help Pay for College
Read insights from Kestra Financial-associated advisor Eric Brotman of BFG Financial Advisors on options grandparents have for contributing to grandchildren's educational costs.
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5 Tips to Protect Your Practice from Cybersecurity Threats
Spring is finally here and this time of year always brings a renewed focus on getting healthy for summer beach vacations. But now that a fresh season is among us, it’s time for us to also focus on the cyber health of our practices.
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7 Reasons to Use a Roth IRA for Early Retirement
Read insights from Kestra Financial-associated advisor Matthew DeFelice of U.S. Financial Services on how Roth strategies can make retiring early possible.
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7 Secrets of Highly Successful Investors
Read insights from Kestra Financial-associated advisor Ray Ferrara of ProVise Management Group on how investors may prosper in a volatile market by focusing on fundamentals.
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9 Strategies for Handling RMDs
There’s no time like the present to get up to speed on the RMD rules.
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Advisors Learn Life Lessons From the Most Stirring Keynote Speakers
Read insights from Kestra Financial-associated advisor Brian Heckert of Financial Solutions Midwest on one of the most memorable messages he heard from a keynote speaker.
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Business Development Playbook
Read insights from Kestra Financial-associated advisor Shawn Okumura of Transitions Wealth Advisors on laying the groundwork for your firm's next phase of growth.
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Challenge or Opportunity?
Read Kestra Financial's Head of Retirement Plans, Taylor Hammon's thoughts on the future of plan advice and the participant experience.
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Credit Cards vs. Debit Cards: Which Are Better for Young Adults?
Read insights from Kestra Financial-associated financial professional Kerry Jackson of Fish & Associates on whether using debit cards or credit cards is more beneficial.
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Firm Makes its Mark in Serving the LGBT Community
Jen Hatch, who honed her financial skills on Wall Street, working at JP Morgan and Bear Stearns, took hold of Christopher Street Financial in 1997, after the death of owner and founder Robert Casaletto to HIV.
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The Future of the Financial Planning Industry Depends on New Blood
Kestra Financial President Stephen Langlois explains why the financial industry is a great career path for young professionals.
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'Black Panther’ Star Chadwick Boseman Died Without a Will. Here’s Why You Should Have an Estate Plan
Michael Roberts, president of Arden Trust, explains the importance of having a will, and what happens to your estate if you do no have one.
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How to Achieve Financial Independence Without Retiring Early
ACHIEVING FINANCIAL freedom doesn't have to be a goal reserved for extreme personal finance obsessives.
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How to Create and Maintain a Family Budget
Read insights from Kestra Financial-associated financial professional Eric Rosenberger of Synthesis Wealth Management on choosing priorities when creating a family budget.
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Kestra Financial Shortlisted as a Finalist for the 10th Annual Wealth Management Industry Awards
Kestra named as a finalist in four categories for the 10th Annual Wealthies.
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Kestra Financial Receives Honors from Top Local and Industry Publications
Kestra financial ranked by Austin Business Journal and Financial Advisor Magazine as a top Independent Broker Dealer and RIA.
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MBA or CFA: Which is Best for Financial Advisors?
Read insights from Kestra Financial-associated financial professional Aaron Leaman of Signature Financial Planning on the differences between getting your CFA and MBA.
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Required Minimum Distribution Mistakes to Avoid
Read insights from Kestra Financial-associated advisor Kelly Famiglietta of Charles Stephen on RMDs mistakes to avoid.
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Resume Objective Tips and Examples
Read as Mary Hjorth, Chief Human Resources Officer at Kestra Financial discusses tips for creating a compelling resume.
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3 Retirement Questions You Need to Ask Your Spouse
Most soon-to-be-married couples understand the importance of sharing their financial aspirations, fears, and shortcomings. If they don’t get around to talking money before the wedding, a first house, a new baby and other events early in a marriage tend to force the discussion.
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Six Questions to Ask a Financial Adviser About Fees
Too many clients contract for services that don’t match their needs—and end up paying far more than they have to.
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Start a New Hobby? Financial Advisors Rely on Technology, Calm Advice to Reach Client
Read insights from Kestra Financial-associated advisor Seth Dresbold on activities to alleviate anxiety, rather than focusing on world events.
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Technology is Redefining that Client-Financial Advisor Relationship
Read insights from Kestra Financial-associated advisor Brandon Hayes of oXYGen Financial on how technology is changing the relationship between clients and advisors.
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The Best Way to Bankroll Your Kids
Read insights from Kestra Financial-associated advisor Steve Gallo of U.S. Financial Services on the best ways to bankroll your kids.
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Top Cybersecurity Strategies for Financial Advisors in 2021
Nick Harness, Chief Information Officer at Kestra Financial, explains the importance of educating your employees and clients to prevent cybersecurity attacks.
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What Does a Financial Advisor Do?
Read insights from Kestra Financial-associated financial professional Sonya Ranker of Questmont Strategic Wealth Advisors on the day-to-day role of a financial professional.
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Working from home? It’s a Great Time to Complete These 6 Financial Tasks You’ve Been Putting Off
Read insights from Kestra Financial-associated advisor Garrett Taylor of Coastline Wealth Management on financial tasks to take care of while you're working from home.
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How Advisor Needs Are Evolving (And How We Support Them)
Join Robert Bartenstein and Scott Wilson on Kestra PWS Out Loud for insights and advice on the latest trends, technology, and real estate support for financial advisors.
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Bee the Best Advisor: Using Honey to Win Clients and Strengthen Relationships
Join Mark Schoenbeck and Rainey Rogers on Kestra Out Loud for a sweet take on running an advisory business.
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A Former Wirehouse Advisor Shares Their Experience Transitioning to an RIA
Kestra PWS advisor Matt West describes his transition to independence.
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How to Build Your Brand as a Financial Advisor
KPWS CEO Rob Bartenstein speaks with Kris Fu of Maven Bridge Capital to discuss the evolution of brand building and finding your niche.
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Episode 8: How Marketing is the Ultimate Investment: Tactics and Advice from Financial Professional, Ted Jenkin
In an era when people are spending increasingly more time online (especially during the COVID-19 pandemic), having a solid digital marketing plan is critical for wealth management professionals says affiliated-financial professional Ted Jenkin.
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Kestra PWS Episode 4: Wherever the Mind Goes, the Body Will Follow
In the latest episode of Kestra PWS Out Loud, Rob Bartenstein and Maria Bethel lead a riveting discussion with Jeffrey White, a wellness coach, best-selling author, and former financial advisor.
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Kestra PWS Episode 5: How Independence Can Benefit Your Clients
In this episode of Kestra PWS Out Loud, KPWS COO Scott Wilson and advisors Jeff Boudjouck and Keith Brandt discuss how the wirehouse benefits extend to their clients.
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Back Office Support at Kestra Financial
Associated financial professional Amy shares her back-office support experience with Kestra Financial, and home office training that empowers advisor success.
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