The purpose of the Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) is to ensure that the purchasing power of Social Security and (SSI) benefits is not eroded by inflation. Social Security payments to increase by 3.2 percent in 2024.

US Treasury interest rates have been rising in recent weeks. We discuss where the interest on treasury bonds comes from and what higher rates can mean for investors. 

Let's explore what a government "shut down" means and discuss how past shutdowns have affected financial markets. Don’t bet the house (of Congress) on this one. Article 

Stock quote: “To be is to do” - Socrates. “To do is to be” - Sartre. “Do Be Do Be Do” - Sinatra. Well Balanced Vol. 23 is a round-up of topics helping you get today right.

Monthly inflation reports are like mile markers on a long road trip. We discuss a recent CPI report and look back a few years for context. (video)

We focus on long-term investing through the lens of the ancient proverb: "The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second best time is now."

Embarking on a new investment journey shares emotional similarities with the first day of school—both are filled with a mix of fear and excitement. We explore immediate investment and dollar-cost averaging strategies in this back-to-school "study guide."