Podcast

IPOs & Your Financial Plan: Should You Invest?

A company's stock market debut can generate plenty of excitement, but is it the right investment for you? In our latest Finance Moment podcast episode, Chief Investment Officer Jason Gunkel explores the opportunities and risks of IPO investing and shares why it's important to look beyond the buzz before making investment decisions.

Listen to the full episode here. 

Blog

What Serving as an Executor Taught Me

By Matt Roberts, MFM, CFP®, CAP®, Chief Planning Officer

Throughout my career as a financial planner, I've had the privilege of helping many families navigate the estate settlement process after the loss of a loved one. I've worked alongside executors, attorneys, accountants, and beneficiaries to help organize financial affairs, coordinate with professionals, and carry out a family's wishes. Over the years, I came to understand the estate settlement process well from a professional perspective. Recently, however, I gained a different perspective.

Market Update

The markets made an impressive comeback in the second quarter, but what does it mean for your investments? In our latest Market Update, Chief Investment Officer Jason Gunkel explains the key market trends, inflation, interest rates, AI, and why maintaining a diversified portfolio is as important as ever. 

Watch below.

In the News

Teresa Baumann Contributes to U.S. News & World Report Article

Did you know that using your credit card occasionally can help you spot fraudulent activity more quickly? Associate Financial Planner Teresa Baumann shared her expertise with U.S. News and World Report. In the article, she explains why it's beneficial to use your credit card from time to time, review your statements regularly, and pay the balance in full every month to avoid interest. Read the article here.

Events

Aug. 5: Client Bingo Social @ Syverson Strege (1:30-2:30 p.m.) - Come play bingo with us! Catch up with old friends and make new ones. Play for a chance to win fun prizes! Register here.

Aug. 20 (5:30-7:30 p.m.) @ Syverson Strege Office: Syverson Strege Presents "Irish Splendor" Trip Informational Meeting - You are invited to join us for an informational meeting to learn about an 8-day Irish Splendor tour (March 15-22) hosted by Collette, featuring iconic destinations including Blarney Castle, the Dingle Peninsula, Rock of Cashel, a historic castle hotel stay, a distillery tour and more. This relaxed-paced tour is designed for travelers who enjoy taking in the sights at a comfortable pace while experiencing Ireland's rich culture, breathtaking scenery and warm welcome. Whether you're ready to reserve your spot or simply curious to learn more, we invite you to attend this no-obligation meeting. In-person and Zoom options are available for this meeting. 

We'll review the itinerary, accommodations, pricing and travel details, and answer any questions you may have. RSVP for the informational meeting with Deb Longseth at DLongseth@SyversonStrege.com or (515) 225-6000. 

If you want to learn more about the trip and reserve your spot now, visit https://groups.gocollette.com/en-US/link/1463259. The cutoff date for the pricing shown is Sept. 19, 2026.

Oct. 8: Client Appreciation Event @ The Rewind Hotel (4:30-7:30 p.m.) – featuring special guest speaker Olympic Speedskater, World Record Holder and Iowa Native Zach Stoppelmoor. 

Inside Look

Welcome, Kevin McLean!

Please join us in welcoming Kevin McLean to the team as a Senior Portfolio Manager. We are excited to have Kevin on board and look forward to the deep investment experience and support he will bring to our clients and the team. Learn more about Kevin here, and tune into a short interview with him here.

Spotlight: Teresa Baumann, Associate Financial Planner

What do you enjoy most about your work at Syverson Strege?

I enjoy getting to know our clients and hearing about their lives. I learn so much from their lived experiences! I also enjoy working with smart, caring co-workers who are devoted to the work we do every day.

What inspired you to become a financial planner?

I have always enjoyed and been good at working with numbers. Once I became an adult and had my first child, I realized how impactful personal financial planning could be. It allowed me to set up the life and future I wanted for my family. I developed a passion for helping others achieve those same goals for themselves. This passion is what ultimately led me into the financial planning field.

What’s one piece of financial wisdom you often share with clients or live by yourself?

Automate your savings, giving and investing and spend what’s left. Keeping it simple works!

What’s been one of your most rewarding experiences working with clients or your team?

It is rewarding and inspiring to see clients achieving and living out their dreams for themselves and their families.

Out & About

Junior Achievement’s Rising Women Event

We were honored to sponsor the Junior Achievement of Central Iowa Rising Women event and support an incredible day dedicated to inspiring and empowering young women. We're especially proud of Financial Planner Jennifer Scheck who led a breakout session focused on building financial confidence and helping attendees prepare for a successful future.