Insights for Your Journey
Latest News & Articles

The Ukraine Russia Conflict & the Global Economy
The Russian invasion of Ukraine is concerning in many ways. As with every event like this, the Russia-Ukraine conflict brings uncertainty. However, we’ve seen similar situations and conflicts in the past, so history has some valuable insights that may provide some reassurance.

Inflation and the Federal Reserve
Inflation hit 7% in 2021, the highest one year increase we’ve seen since 1982 and the Federal Reserve is taking action. Why and how does this work? We take a look at this question in this week’s article.

How Do I Reduce Estate Taxes?
Are you worried about estate taxes eating into your wealth, leaving less for your family or charities you care about? Unsure what you can do or where to start? Use these 5 steps to make and maintain your plan to reduce estate taxes.

4 Steps for a Successful Estate Planning Talk with Your Parents
“I’ll have to manage my parents’ finances at some point, but they don’t like to talk about this and I don’t know where things are or what they want!” Does this sound familiar? These four steps can help!

Market Volatility, Inflation, Rate Hikes, and Your Portfolio – Webinar Replay
Replay of our discussion covering January’s market volatility and how inflation and expected interest rate increase could affect your portfolio.

Market Volatility, Inflation, Rate Hikes & Your Portfolio
What’s going on in the market right now…why so much volatility? Is inflation about to stop the economy in its tracks? What about interest rate hikes? What’s next for the economy and my portfolio? Read more in this quarter’s review.

Success Story – Help Your Beneficiary Reduce Taxes on an Inherited IRA
Patty and Steve want to leave a $1 million IRA to support their daughter with steady income but are worried about loss to taxes. Learn how they can use creative estate planning to reduce taxes and increase their impact.

2021 Wins and Milestones + Some of Our Favorite Books
Another year in the books! While our world hasn’t returned to the pre-pandemic normal that many of us long for, we’re all adjusting to the “new normal” as best we can. Thankfully, our Alterra team has been able to get some of our favorite moments back, including in-person meetings and the privilege of hosting many of you in our office for the first time in more than a year!

Should You Worry About the Spike in Inflation?
Does the recent inflation spike mean you’ll have to make lifestyle changes? Are we about to return to the 80’s-era inflation? Prices climbed 6.8% in the last 12 months, the biggest jump in almost 40 years. So, what’s happening? And, more importantly, should you be concerned?

A 100% Tax Deduction + 2 More Giving Opportunities in 2021
Looking for ways to reduce taxes through strategic giving this year? Here are three opportunities not to miss before the end of 2021.

Sudden Wealth – Dream Come True or Nightmare?
Would you like to win the lottery? Receive a large inheritance? Receive a multimillion dollar sports contract? For many, sudden wealth ends up closer to a nightmare than a dream. Avoid these common sudden wealth mistakes!

What’s In (and What’s out) in Biden’s Tax Plan
The Biden administration’s third draft of the Build Back Better Act includes some notable changes from previous proposals. Here’s a summary of what’s in and what’s out in the most recent proposal.What's In?Tax Increases for High Income IndividualsApplies the 3.8% NIIT...

2022 Contribution Limits for 401(k)s, IRAs and More
2021 retirement plan contributions have been released and, while the majority of limits are unchanged, there are a few updates to note. Here’s a summary!

3 Biggest Risks Facing Your Investment Plan
When thinking of investment risk, market risk is just one type of risk to address. What else should you consider? Here are three risks you should account for in your investment plan.

What to Do (and Not Do) for Year-end Planning + Q3 in Review – Webinar Replay
Replay our discussion covering year end tax planning considerations, important updates in tax reform, and what’s next for the market, economy, and your portfolios.
Worried about estate taxes in Washington?
Download our free guide with 5 Strategies to Reduce Your Estate Taxes in Washington State.