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By:
Jordan Sowhangar, Certified Financial Planner, VP and Wealth Advisor at Girard, a Univest Wealth Management Division February 13, 2018
It’s no secret that many well-intended New Year’s resolutions fail after a few weeks of diligence. People often resolve to improve their finances at the start of the New Year and set lofty goals. However, it can be hard to stay inspired to stick with your changes when significant progress isn’t made. While not seeing an instant benefit as you tackle long-term goals is common, research shows that having an immediate reward can actually help to reach those goals.
If you’ve already broken your financial New Year’s resolution, you can get back on track. There’s still plenty of time…
By:
Dave Geibel, Managing Director, Girard, a Univest Wealth Division February 1, 2017
This Valentine’s Day, couples might be wise to forego the extravagant presents and take the opportunity to get on the same financial page. According to a recent survey by the American Psychological Association, 31 percent of adults with a partner said money is a major source of conflict in the relationship. Most people know that money is a common area for couples to disagree, but few couples take the necessary steps to prevent money conflicts or right the financial ship once it’s blown off course.
Communication is key in any relationship, and it’s particularly important when it comes to money…
By:
Chris McCarthy, SVP and Area Manager, Univest Bank and Trust Co. December 9, 2016
December is upon us and the days are getting shorter, temperatures are getting colder and the busy holiday shopping season is in full swing. This time of year, many people shift their focus to looking for the best deals on gifts, however, it is also the time to begin reviewing your financial health so you can plan for a financially healthy 2017. Here are a few tips to consider:
Determine Savings Goals – Make sure that you are setting attainable savings goals and that you have a budget and plan in place to achieve those goals. Maybe you are saving…
By:
Philip C. Jackson, Commercial Banking, Lehigh Valley Market President November 10, 2016
We have been saying for several years now that you should expect interest rates to rise. This has been slow in coming, but it is expected that interest rates will increase over the next 12 months. In anticipation of increasing rates, there are things you can do now as a business owner:
Refinance – If you have any long-term debt that carries a high interest rate, you should consider refinancing this debt. Be sure to review your documentation for exit or penalty fees. Also, keep in mind, even if you have fees, you can earn them back if you…
By:
Greg Taber, Senior Vice President and Area Manager, Consumer Banking, Univest Bank and Trust Co. November 4, 2016
In today’s market, we are all looking for the best deal. However, the steady stream of coupons, discounts and sales can lead us to make quick, irrational decisions because we think we’re getting a bargain. Just because something is reduced in price, doesn’t mean it needs to be purchased. Remember to ask yourself, do you really need that item? Would you consider purchasing it if it wasn’t on sale?
Many of us enjoy “retail therapy,” but purchasing miscellaneous things can add up quickly and leave us in shock when the bill comes next month. With the holidays approaching, we need…
By:
Chris Briscoe, Vice President and Wealth Advisor, CFP®, Girard, a Univest Wealth Division August 3, 2016
The Information Age has altered the landscape of our financial world bringing with it the boundless expansion of mobile device capabilities which are readily available at our fingertips. As smartphone technology becomes an even bigger part of our day-to-day lives, it is important to know how to take advantage of the financial abilities these tools grants us.
Whether it’s tracking your spending to operate within a realistic budget or scouring for sales promotions and coupons, classic saving tactics are made easier when properly utilizing your smartphone. With sound savings habits in place, you may have additional funds available to invest…
The generation of the Internet age is one of the largest and most diverse in the U.S. Although Millennials have been defined by a relationship to technology, the generation has been steadily redefining adulthood. Millennials have adapted and endured in a post-recession economy, their social and global values have inspired change in the labor market, and now one-third of Millennials are living in a parent’s home.
For the first time in the Modern Era, this is the most common living arrangement for 18 to 34-year-olds. This new normal has not come without its challenges. Many are saddled with…
