In 2026, the financial world has moved beyond the "Great Normalization" into a more nuanced era defined by structural shifts. The primary goal is no longer just participation in the market, but the active management of risks that have become more complex and interconnected. As we look at the year ahead, three forces; persistent inflation, evolving regulatory standards, and a falling interest rate environment are reshaping how we approach portfolio longevity and protection. 1.

Understanding how interest rate changes affect annuity decisions is crucial to retirement income planning, as fluctuating interest rates influence annuity payouts. Therefore, keeping a close eye on rate trends can offer valuable insight for retirement income planning. The relationship between interest rates and annuities Insurance companies invest annuity premiums in bonds and other strategies, and the interest accrued determines the return on annuities. Therefore, higher int

Annuities are a contract with an insurance company that provides a steady stream of income, potentially for life, to the insured. They can be an important part of retirement income planning for many individuals. Insurance companies offer additional options when purchasing an annuity, known as annuity riders. While these riders can provide added benefits, they may come at an extra cost, and not all riders may be suitable for everyone. Let's delve deeper into the types of annui

Safeguarding wealth is a critical component of financial planning. In 2026, it's vital to understand strategies that may help preserve and grow one’s financial assets effectively. Diversification - One of the most critical strategies for wealth protection remains diversification. As the adage goes, "don't put all your eggs in one basket." Owning a diverse range of asset classes helps mitigate the impact of underperforming investments on one’s overall portfolio. Review insuran

We've deconstructed the "Big" in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, analyzing its provisions and impacts on individuals and organizations. In this final installment, we shift our focus from what is to what's next, offering The Porter Group’s perspective on the legislation's political and economic future. The Three Axes of Future Policy The OBBBA, while massive, is not the final word. Its structure creates three predictable areas of future political and economic tension: Fiscal S

In Part 2, we looked at how the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) affects individuals. For organizations, from Fortune 500 corporations to local nonprofits, the Act is a game changer that requires a complete reassessment of capital strategy, employee benefits, and community engagement. The Corporate and For-Profit Landscape: Certainty and Incentives The OBBBA is widely considered pro-business, offering key tax breaks and stability for long-term planning: Permanent Business E

Welcome to the first part of our four-part series, "Decoding the OBBBA." Over the next two weeks, we'll break down the most significant piece of economic and social policy to pass in years: the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), also known as the Big Beautiful Bill (P.L. 119-21). Signed into law on July 4, 2025, the OBBBA is not just another bill; it's a monumental legislative act that will reshape the American landscape, impacting everything from your paycheck to your acces

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There's often a misconception that life insurance only serves to provide for loved ones in the event of death. While a life insurance policy certainly does that, it also has the potential to integrate as part of an overall strategy. Life insurance can help manage risk and protect against the potential financial fallout from unexpected events. Here are five ways that life insurance may fit into a financial strategy.