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Mark Gardner

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    • We invest the same percentages in index funds across small, large, value, and growth. We rebalance based on a threshold.

      Post: Dump the 60/40 and target date funds for 100% stock plus annuity portfolio?

      Link to comment from February 16, 2025

    • We opted for a TIPS ladder for our reliable income to supplement delayed social security payments. We built this in 2023 as I started my retirement planning. My spouse wants to work a few more years after I retire. This afforded us a 90-10 equities/bonds risk portfolio where the equities are 70-30 US/foreign and equal weighted across large/small and growth/value. We hope this portfolio to cover our discretionary spending desires. We plan to take a reverse mortgage when eligible for reserves to pay for any LTC and other unanticipated spending shocks.

      Post: Dump the 60/40 and target date funds for 100% stock plus annuity portfolio?

      Link to comment from February 15, 2025

    • The 50s seem like a decade of wild spending, fueled by the desire to make the most of life. I think it’s the realization that we’re all mortal that makes us want to splurge on a business-class flight to that dream vacation spot. Hopefully, all those years of saving will come in handy!

      Post: Why Don’t Folks Save? By Jonathan Clements

      Link to comment from February 15, 2025

    • Despite its vast size and population, California faces a land scarcity. There are only so many places where construction can take place. In my opinion, this constraint will drive the rebuilding efforts in Los Angeles, similar to what happened in major cities like London, San Francisco, and Tokyo, which were devastated by devastating fires and bombings, respectively. However, it’s important to note that rebuilding efforts will take time.

      Post: Would You Rebuild?

      Link to comment from January 13, 2025

    • At 57, I am 15% Tax Free(Roth & HSA), 8% Taxable, and the rest in tax deferred 401K and NQDC. With the talk of a direct or indirect (tarriffs) tax on consumption, I wonder if we are entering an era of being taxed the same irrespective of the type of account.

      Post: What’s your asset breakdown by tax treatment?

      Link to comment from September 12, 2024

    • According to NBER, the richest 5% of Americans own 2/3rds of wealth in the United States. We as a society have choices to make: 1) We can deny healthcare and a dignified retirement to our senior citizens, we can spend less on protecting our assets and interests with a strong military, and reduce investments in healthcare and education for our newest fellow citizens. 2) We can marginally increase taxes on the top 5% of Americans and afford to keep pace with other Western democracies and ensure a comfortable life for our seniors and invest in our children. We can achieve a balance through messy compromise and passionate dialogue. It all comes down to who we send as our representatives to local cities, state houses, and Congress. There, our track record hasn't been anything our grandkids will be proud of. Apologies if this came off as political speech.

      Post: Paying the Piper

      Link to comment from July 7, 2024

    • Thank you for helping out Sally. Focusing on expense management can transform our financial lives for the better. Regardless of how much you earn, having the right tools and a framework for spending wisely is essential for securing a comfortable retirement.

      Post: Digging Out

      Link to comment from June 27, 2024

    • Modern cars are not unique in their data collection practices. The primary issue is the car's computer, which is connected to the Internet and monitors location data. For example, Teslas transmit various types of data to company servers for analysis. Even driving a "disconnected" car won't ensure privacy if you carry a mobile device when driving. Companies like Facebook and Google collect extensive location data through these devices. These companies often claim there is no alternative way to provide their services. To genuinely address privacy concerns and protect citizens from aggressive data collection for profit, we should: 1. Pay for the services we use instead of relying on "free" options. 2. Demand that Congress repeal Section 230 of the Communications Act of 1934 and increase the data collection costs of these platforms.

      Post: We Drive, They Spy

      Link to comment from June 25, 2024

    • If your goal is to leave a legacy for your children, is it more beneficial to provide them with an inheritance after a long life, when they are likely well into middle age, or to gift them $18,000/yr/parent now, in hopes that they learn to handle investments prudently at a young age? I prefer the latter approach, but I am curious to hear what others think.

      Post: Go Big Early

      Link to comment from June 20, 2024

    • Jonathan, I was deeply moved by your recent news. In times like these, words often fall short, but I hope to offer a small comfort through an ancient Vedic prayer that speaks to the well-being of all beings: May all beings experience happiness; may all beings experience freedom from disease. May all beings experience auspiciousness; may no one suffer in any way This prayer embodies a universal wish for happiness, health, and peace, transcending all boundaries of faith and belief. It reflects my heartfelt wish for your comfort, strength, and peace during this journey. You have shown incredible courage and grace, and your work and strength inspires everyone around you.  Thank you.

      Post: The C Word

      Link to comment from June 15, 2024

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