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September was a difficult month for investors, as markets dropped. As we head into October, with a contentious election less than five weeks away, it’s easy to see why investors are even more worried about what might be next. How big a drop might we see in financial markets, especially if the results are disputed? Will it be like 2000? Could it be worse?

With many individuals and families facing catastrophic hardships because of the COVID-19 pandemic, charitable giving to those most adversely affected has become increasingly important. The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, enacted in March, includes tax provisions designed to incentivize individuals and companies to make charitable contributions in 2020. These charitable giving incentives do not require that donations be made to charities assisting in the pandemic.

As the U.S. presidential election draws closer, there are growing questions (from both sides) on whether the outcome will negatively affect the markets. Of course, this is not unusual. As you may remember from the last election cycle, many predicted doom if Trump were to win. In the election before that, we saw similar worries concerning Obama. In both cases, despite the fears, the markets ended up doing quite well. Given this, what risks—if any—does the upcoming election pose for the markets? Let’s take a closer look.

This year many families are faced with unprecedented financial challenges and economic anxiety. Our early experiences with money set the template for how we approach work, spending, debt and our ideas about wealth. The way a family chooses to respond to their unique challenges will impact children the most and endure for a lifetime.

While mid-year is always a good time to reassess our finances, it is especially essential this year amid the pandemic.  At Hawekotte Financial Group, we have been working remotely with our clients to help them stay on track with their financial goals.  While social distancing is important for our physical health, it is important to focus on our financial well-being as well. 

March 2020 has not been kind to the markets.

It’s not too late to set your personal goals to make 2020 a great year financially. When you plan well, you can be well, now and in the future. Some people may set their sights on losing a significant amount of weight or training for a marathon, while others may want to spend more time with family or other loved ones. Whatever your plans, consider adding a few of the financial changes described below to your New Year’s resolution list, too, to help you turn 2020 into an even better year.

On December 20, 2019, the SECURE Act was signed into law. The SECURE Act contains 29 provisions, encompassing many aspects of financial planning and retirement saving. Once treasury regulations are released, nuances in interpreting this new law will become clearer. Until then, individuals are left to interpret the law’s effects based on the language of the law itself.

This article will address what the SECURE Act entails and who it affects, as well as provide suggestions on how to plan for the changes that have been instituted.

Yorba Linda Lifestyle Magazine graciously invited us to share some year-end financial planning tips -- read all about it here:

www.lifestylepubs.com/YorbaLinda/2019/11/27/expert-tips-for-year-end-finances