1st Quarter Updates and Commentary from IEM
With the days getting longer, and the winter weather in the rear view mirror, we feel privileged to be by your side as we navigate through this unique time. In this edition we provide some additional insight into how we've adapted to the changing landscape, and include "5 Things to Know" for the foreseeable future.
Geared Up and Here to Serve You!
Your team at IEM is open and ready to help – even across ten cities in two states, where we’re physically located right now. Other than meeting virtually by phone or video conference, you shouldn’t notice much difference. No matter where you are in your financial journey, now is a great time to have a holistic review of your finances and reassess your goals. We are here to help you make educated decisions and find opportunities during this difficult time, so please call or email if we can be of any assistance to you and your family.
Economic Commentary:
Brad McMillan, Commonwealth’s Chief Investment Officer, shares a framework for thinking about the coronavirus crisis, focusing on the virus itself, its economic effects, and the market implications. Watch his latest video here to learn more.
 
IEM Managed Account Rebalancing:
Given recent market actions across the global capital markets, we are rebalancing all qualified (retirement) IEM managed accounts to take advantage of the volatility and to have client portfolios meet their stated investment objectives going forward. Rebalancing to the portfolio’s target stock-bond allocation is also one of the ways to help both manage risk and position for upside. Since the rebalancing is taking place only in retirement accounts, there will be no tax consequences.

Securities and advisory services offered through Commonwealth Financial Network®, Member FINRA/SIPC, a Registered Investment Advisor.  Fixed insurance products and services offered through CES Insurance Agency or Integrated Equity Management
5 Things to Know
1. Tax Deadline Extended - The IRS has postponed the tax filing and payment due dates until July 15th, and Minnesota will also follow these guidelines. Note that this also applies to federal estimated tax payments, however, this does NOT apply to Minnesota estimated tax payments, so the April 15th deadline will still apply for MN 2020 Q1 estimates.

2. Roth IRA, Traditional IRA, and SEP IRA Contribution Deadline The IRS has also extended the deadline for 2019 IRA contributions until July 15 th. SEP IRA contributions can generally be made with the return up until the October 15 th extension deadline. If you need to make a contribution for 2019, contact us for the best way to do so either by direct deposit or mailing a check directly to Commonwealth for processing.

3. Paper Checks – If you typically send checks for investment into your account, or if you are receiving funds by check, please let us know if you would like to set up an EFT bank line or automated direct deposit to have available to ensure no disruption in your income disbursements.

4. Mailings: USPS Mail, FedEx, and UPS – We continue to accept all mail and deliveries at our office. If you need to send us something, please give us a heads up so we can pay special attention during these times. Thank you!

5. Keeping Your Information Safe - Unfortunately, cybercriminals try to take advantage of a crisis, and people become more susceptible to attacks. It’s important to stay vigilant and look out for suspicious emails that may contain malicious attachments or links to fraudulent websites. For more information, please visit the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency