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  • We have $1.6 million but most is locked in our 401(k) plans — how can we retire early without paying so much in taxes?
    Business
    MarketWatch

    We have $1.6 million but most is locked in our 401(k) plans — how can we retire early without paying so much in taxes?

    You bring up an interesting dilemma some retirement savers may not think of, which is having your retirement assets locked away in investment portfolios intended to be used at an older age. Employer-sponsored retirement accounts, such as 401(k) plans, are a great tool for investing for retirement because they are tax-deferred, which means more money is growing until it’s time to withdraw. The first task is to double check on your company’s policy for the age 55 rule (for readers unfamiliar with this rule, it allows people age 55 or older who were separated from their jobs — either because they were fired or voluntarily left — to tap into the 401(k) from their current employer before the required age 59 ½).

  • 5 smart ways to shift your investments as the Fed gets ready for a big move
    Business
    MarketWatch

    5 smart ways to shift your investments as the Fed gets ready for a big move

    Fed policymakers surprised a lot of investors on Wednesday by signaling that tapering and interest-rate hikes are finally on the way. Investors sat up and noticed because “taking away the punch bowl” has doomed many a growth cycle. The Fed policy shift confirms we are moving toward the middle of the economic cycle from the early stage where rip-roaring growth is the norm – which benefits more speculative stocks.

  • What’s the point of owning bonds?
    Business
    MarketWatch

    What’s the point of owning bonds?

    RETIREMENT WEEKLY Q.: With rates so low, why would anyone own bonds? Won’t bonds get crushed when rates rise? — Paul in KC A.: Paul, if you are looking for interest payments, bonds are underwhelming for sure.

  • Reddit Stocks: How to Become a Millionaire With Meme Investing
    Business
    InvestorPlace

    Reddit Stocks: How to Become a Millionaire With Meme Investing

    If you’re thinking, “things are harder these days,” you’re probably right. (If you disagree, congratulations on winning last week’s Powerball lottery). Median household incomes have stagnated since the mid-1980s. That’s made everything from paying down student loans (an average balance of $38,255) to paying for essentials (74% of income) harder than ever for young families. And if you’re older, you’re probably worried too; healthcare costs are 30 times higher today than in 1970. What happened?In