A Word from the CEO

Last year was a good one for equities. The S&P 500 gained more than 26%. Those of you invested in stock mutual funds saw these investments increase. Your instinct might be to let these investments ride. Why mess with success?

Our article on rebalancing your account presents five reasons why updating your asset allocation makes sense. 1) Just because an asset did well in one year does not mean that it will continue to post gains. 2) Rebalancing allows you to "sell high" and lock in the profits that have accrued in your account. 3) Rebalancing allows you to make sure your portfolio reflects your comfort with risk and need for growth. 4) For those retirees taking distributions from the JRB Stable Value Interest Fund, this may be a good time to replenish the Fund. 5) The tools to rebalance are available through your online JRB account portal — or you can contact the JRB for assistance.

While rebalancing is an annual piece of financial housekeeping for all investors, those in their 40's face unique issues. The 40's are a decade when most of us are focused on advancing our careers. Accompanying this career focus are new responsibilities such as paying a home mortgage, saving for a child's education, expanding our own skills and, perhaps, growing responsibility for aging parents. Our article on financial milestones in your 40's will get you thinking about whether the plan you established in your 30's still fits your needs. For those without a financial plan, your 40's are a great time to start.

Finally, the IRS published revised tax brackets for 2024 (for tax returns to be filed in April 2025). While the tax rates have not changed, the income tax brackets have increased. This may result in your paying lower taxes.

If you have questions about rebalancing, your taxes, increasing your retirement contribution or your overall financial goals, please contact us via email or call us at 888-JRB-FREE (572-3733).

L'Shalom,