In the past four years, a retirement enthusiast has been sharing a free, comprehensive retirement newsletter every Sunday. The newsletter covers articles on retirement planning, finance, health, and media, along with valuable research tools and model portfolios. However, not everyone can delay taking Social Security until age 70, as a recent study found that many retirees are unable to wait due to factors such as income and physical demands of their job.
Index funds, typically considered low-cost and passive investments, may face federal scrutiny as the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation is proposing measures to regulate organizations that own more than 10% of a bank’s shares, such as Vanguard and BlackRock. This proposal has raised concerns among investors, likening it to President Reagan’s famous quote about government intervention.
The debate between investing in individual bonds versus bond funds continues among retirees. While individual bonds may appear safer due to the ability to hold until maturity and avoid losses, bond funds offer more flexibility and convenience in portfolio management. An article highlighted the importance of both types of investments based on the unique needs and goals of investors.
Tax-efficient strategies for spending down retirement savings were also discussed, emphasizing the importance of diversifying withdrawal sources to minimize tax liabilities. Research has shown that spending first from taxable accounts may allow traditional accounts to grow and potentially lead to higher taxes when mandatory distributions begin. By strategically managing withdrawals across different account types, retirees can optimize their tax situation in retirement.
In a unique twist, the benefits of walking backward were explored in an article shared in the newsletter. Walking backward can engage different muscle groups and relieve pressure on the knees, providing a new perspective on the benefits of daily physical activity. Additionally, a tool called FidSafe from Fidelity was highlighted as a way to safely store important documents in the cloud and provide access to loved ones in the event of an emergency.
Overall, the retirement newsletter continues to provide valuable insights and resources for retirees looking to enhance their retirement planning strategies. From navigating Social Security decisions to exploring investment options and staying active through physical activity, the newsletter offers a diverse range of topics to help retirees make informed decisions and lead fulfilling lives in retirement. Readers are encouraged to sign up for the newsletter to receive weekly updates on retirement-related content and useful resources.
