Pine Bend Wealth Management

09/03/2026

U.S. credit card debt is approaching a record high.

Americans’ credit card balances reached $1.26 trillion in the second quarter, rising by $21 billion, according to new data from the Federal Reserve Bank of New York.

That puts credit card debt just below the all-time high of $1.28 trillion set late last year.

Strong consumer spending is one factor behind higher balances. Rising prices for essentials like groceries and gas may also be contributing.

Delinquencies remain a concern. The share of credit card balances more than 90 days delinquent rose from 7.6% to 12.8% from mid-2022 through early 2026.

Total U.S. household debt now stands at $18.8 trillion. Auto loan debt also reached a new high of $1.71 trillion.

For households, rising debt is a reminder that everyday expenses, interest rates, minimum payments and emergency costs can all affect financial flexibility.

Source:

Americans' credit card debt reached $1.26 trillion, increasing by $21 billion in the second quarter of this year, according to new data.

08/31/2026

This shows how politics can creep into thinking. Take inflation. Republicans, as a group, expect prices to rise 2.4 percent over the next 12 months. Democrats expect 4.7 percent. That's a big gap for two groups looking at the exact same economy.

08/27/2026

For decades, you trained one financial muscle: save, invest, don't touch it. Then retirement arrives and asks you to do the opposite.

Nobody teaches that part. There is no course on how to spend the money you spent a lifetime building, so the discipline, the caution and the watchful eye on every balance don't switch off just because your career did.

There is an invisible switch that most savers struggle to flip once in retirement that gives them permission to spend. Learn more in our recent blog about how to train yourself to make the switch when the time comes.


Learn more in our recent blog

08/17/2026

Six years in business and what a journey it has been! ✨

We’re incredibly grateful for the clients, family, friends and community who have supported us along the way. What started as a vision six years ago has grown into something we’re truly proud of. Every milestone, challenge and success has shaped who we are today.

Here’s to 6 years of meaningful relationships, and continued growth!

Thank you for being part of our story!

08/14/2026

Risk Tolerance Assessment: COMPLETE! ✅

Another important step toward a more personalized financial plan! Understanding your comfort level with investment risk helps us make sure your strategy is aligned with your goals, timeline and peace of mind.

Our advisors are willing to do what it takes to access the risk, so you’re confident with your plan!

A special thank you to Abby Tomblin with TAPN K9 Defense for this ultimate experience and opportunity for Stephen to check off his bucket list

08/06/2026

Backpacks are packed, alarms are set a little earlier, and the school year begins.📚✏️🍎

A new school year brings fresh opportunities, new goals, and exciting adventures.

We’re wishing all students, teachers, school staff, and families a wonderful back to school season!

A big shout out to our little buddy, HC! Go rock this year!💪

08/03/2026

Meet our newest team member… Gilly! 🐾

We’re excited to introduce the newest addition to our office, our Chief Happiness Officer! 😃

From greeting clients with a wagging tail to boosting morale with plenty of puppy cuddles, she is already making the office a happier place.

Be sure to say hello to her the next time you stop by. We can’t wait for you to meet our four-legged friend and experience a little extra joy during your visit.

Welcome to the team, Gilly girl! 🐕‍🦺

07/30/2026

Will AI Mirror Cell Phone Use❓
Cell phone use has risen steadily, and the "where" may explain why⬇️

07/21/2026

Trump Accounts have been in headlines for months. Few of those headlines explain them the same way. Depending on the article, they sound like a college fund, a retirement account, or something brand new altogether.
For parents and grandparents trying to figure out whether any of it matters for their family, the noise has gotten in the way of the signal.
Check out our latest blog to understand more about these accounts.

Trump Accounts have been in headlines for months. Few of those headlines explain them the same way.Depending on the article, they sound like a college fund, a retirement account, or something brand new altogether.For parents and grandparents trying to figure out whether any of it matters for their f...

07/15/2026

The market isn’t just about fundamentals anymore... policy is driving outcomes.

Explore LPL Research’s 2026 Midyear Outlook: Policy, Buildouts, & Bottlenecks and
what it means for portfolios.

go.lpl.com/investormidyearoutlook