Possibly because many large corporations have enhanced their security policies, 40% of all targeted Internet attacks are directed toward more vulnerable companies with fewer than 500 employees. Unfortunately, only 52% of small businesses have a basic cybersecurity plan.1 Small businesses often use the Internet to market their products and services, accept electronic payments, and […]

  IRAs and defined-contribution plans have become an important component of personal wealth — averaging roughly 60% of the assets of U.S. households with $100,000 or more to invest, according to recent research.1 Designating account beneficiaries (in light of your overall estate conservation strategy) and keeping those designations up to date can be a complex […]

  The number of Americans aged 90 or older almost tripled from 1980 through 2010 and is projected to quadruple by 2050.1 Of course, reaching 90 is still an unusual accomplishment, but the average 65-year-old can expect to live another 19 years.2 A portfolio that provides steady income for both the short and the long term […]

Market volatility seemed to be the norm in 2011. In just two trading days (October 31 and November 1), for example, the Dow Jones Industrial Average lost almost 4.7% of its value. At the end of the month, the Dow gained 4.2% in a single day (November 30).1 As an investor, you may find that […]

  Parents generally don’t have to be convinced of the value of a college education for their children. Studies show that college graduates not only earn more but are healthier, more satisfied with their jobs, and more likely to remain employed during tough economic times.1 But paying for college becomes more challenging every year. Over […]

The Great Recession affected the full spectrum of the U.S. economy, but the impact on the manufacturing sector was especially strong. Production dropped by more than 20%, and nearly 2.3 million manufacturing jobs were lost.1–2 The good news is that manufacturing production is climbing toward pre-recession levels, increasing at an annual rate of 10.4% in […]