Opal Blog

How to Make Better Financial Decisions in 2020

How to Make Better Financial Decisions in 2020

Ushering in a brand-new year has a way of sparking real reflection; personally, professionally and financially. It’s a fresh start—a time to absorb the lessons of 2019 and look ahead to the coming year with a sense of… more

5 Strategies to Minimize Taxes in Retirement

5 Strategies to Minimize Taxes in Retirement

After working for decades, retirement is about transitioning away from the daily grind and taking some much-deserved time for yourself. If you planned ahead and began contributing to your nest egg early on, you’ll have funds waiting for… more

Give to Charity, Get a Tax Break with Donor-Advised Funds

Give to Charity, Get a Tax Break with Donor-Advised Funds

The latest round of tax reform has had a pretty significant impact on charitable giving, specifically when it comes to writing off donations. This is because certain tax deductions are only available if you choose to itemize, rather… more

Banking Smarter: Using Cash Flow to Build Wealth

Banking Smarter: Using Cash Flow to Build Wealth

Building a solid financial foundation requires more than simply having money. Any experienced financial advisor will tell you that how you manage your money has a far greater impact on whether or not you thrive financially. As counterintuitive as… more

Why Estate Planning Is Critical for Modern Families

Why Estate Planning Is Critical for Modern Families

Today’s American families reflect the changing times we live in, and that’s a good thing. The truth is that families come in all shapes and sizes. Some parents belong to the LGBTQ community, others are unmarried or on… more

Financial Planning for the Sandwich Generation

Financial Planning for the Sandwich Generation

Roughly one in seven middle-aged adults belong to the sandwich generation—people who are financially supporting an aging parent along with children of their own. It’s a tug of war that leaves many feeling burned out when it comes… more

How to Invest During Volatile Markets

How to Invest During Volatile Markets

A sound investment plan is one of the greatest tools we have for growing our wealth over the long term. This requires staying disciplined and committed (in good times and bad), but sticking with it during market downturns… more

Why Now Is the Time to Refinance Your Debt

Why Now Is the Time to Refinance Your Debt

Economists and pundits alike have been buzzing since the Federal Reserve cut interest rates by a quarter of a percentage point this summer. After hiking rates four times last year, the reduction marked the first time the Fed… more

How to Talk About Money with Your Partner

How to Talk About Money with Your Partner

What makes a relationship go the distance is an emotional bond that goes beyond the physical. Intimacy, connection, safety and respect—these are the pillars of a healthy partnership. When you take a moment to look a little closer,… more