These Simple Portfolio Checks Could Save You From Costly Mistakes by Morningstar
A midyear portfolio review helps investors identify issues while there is still time to make meaningful adjustments before year-end. Reviewing asset allocation, individual holdings, cash reserves, diversification, and tax opportunities can help keep a portfolio aligned with long-term goals after six months of market movements. It’s also an opportunity to determine whether changes in your financial situation or objectives warrant updates to your investment strategy.
Why AI Might Actually Help Solve the Next Labor Crisis by The Wall Street Journal
A slowing labor force caused by lower birth rates, slower immigration, and an aging population could leave the U.S. facing a shortage of workers rather than a shortage of jobs over the next decade. In that environment, AI could help offset labor scarcity by boosting productivity, allowing businesses to maintain growth despite having fewer workers available. If that scenario unfolds, workers could benefit from stronger bargaining power and wage growth while AI increasingly complements rather than replaces the workforce.
How to Find the Bargains in the Software Stock Wreckage by Barron’s
AI is pressuring the traditional software model by reducing the value of per-user subscriptions, shifting spending toward infrastructure, and making some narrow software products easier to replace. The likely winners are companies tied to data, cybersecurity, observability, and deeply embedded enterprise workflows, while point solutions and creative software firms face greater disruption. For investors, the sector is becoming much more selective: success will depend on identifying companies that can adapt their pricing, preserve competitive advantages, and turn AI into durable revenue rather than simply adding AI features.
Is This the End of Booze? by Derek Thompson
You can be terrified over the risks being shared about alcohol consumption, but this article does an excellent job providing context to the elevated risks and sharing social benefits the author doesn’t want to see ignored.
5 Tax Traps in Retirement Income Planning Video from Savant Wealth Management
Retirement income planning requires coordinating withdrawals, Social Security, Medicare, and different account types to manage taxes over an entire retirement rather than minimizing them in a single year. Common trouble spots include IRMAA surcharges, poorly timed Social Security claims, required minimum distributions, and relying too heavily on tax-deferred accounts. Roth conversions, qualified charitable distributions, and thoughtful asset location can help smooth taxable income and improve after-tax cash flow. The goal is to use each income source strategically so taxes, healthcare costs, and legacy planning work together rather than against one another
