Tom Fox, Wealth Advisor

11/07/2025

Scammers are getting more sophisticated every day. 💻
Take a moment to read this insightful article from Hartford Funds — especially Section 2, which highlights key red flags to help you stay vigilant and protect yourself.
Staying informed is the first step in staying secure. 🔒

There have always been scams, but the digital age has certainly created more opportunities for fraudsters.

10/10/2025

👟 Walking Together for a Purpose 💙

We had a group from Strellner Financial Group take part in the Especially for You® Race this weekend along with over 16,000 others in downtown Cedar Rapids. Our hope was to walk/run in honor, in memory, and in support of breast cancer awareness and local care services. We heard stories of survivors and we ran/walked along some fierce warriors. 💪🫶

We were also fortunate enough to be able to help with packet pickup prior to the race. The amount of work and effort that goes into making this event possible is incredible. 🤝👏

10/06/2025

📣Celebrating our own Blake Helms!🎂

From rocking that Jordan jersey as a kid 🏀 to helping clients crush their financial goals today — that MJ energy has always been there.

Keep bringing the drive, Blake! 🚀

09/10/2025

Relocating in retirement? There's more to think about than sunny weather and home prices.

Where you live can affect access to health care, social connection, and day-to-day lifestyle—key factors that often get overlooked.

Before making a move, consider:
🌎 Does the location match the pace of life you’re looking for?
🏥 Are nearby medical services available and reliable?
💬 Will you feel connected to your community?

Relocation can be exciting, but it’s worth considering how a new zip code may shape your future quality of life.


Source:

Looking to retire and relocate? Deciding where to land isn't as easy as it sounds. Retirement experts say many retirees face challenges like rising costs and community support.

09/08/2025

August ended strongly for U.S. markets, with the S&P 500 closing above 6,500 for the first time. A mix of slowing job growth and cooling inflation put the Fed’s next move in the spotlight as investors look ahead to the September meeting. And with football season kicking off, fans and advertisers are spending big to be part of the action.

The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index advanced 1.91 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite rose 1.58 percent. The Dow Jones Industrial Average led, picking up 3.20 percent.1

08/28/2025

In the case anyone local uses Hills Bank, they posted about possible fraudalent activity this week.

Hills Bank is aware of fraudulent calls and texts impersonating our staff. Even if the Caller ID says “Hills Bank,”- we will never ask for you for card details, online banking credentials, or secure access codes. If you’re concerned your account may be compromised, please call us at 1-800-445-5725 or chat with us on hillsbank.com.

08/28/2025

🎉 Wishing you a relaxing Labor Day weekend! Please see below with our adjusted hours for the upcoming holiday weekend. 🗓️

08/21/2025

🎉 Happy Birthday to the fabulous Jen! 🎉

Before she was placing trades and opening accounts like a pro, she was clearly mastering style and confidence (exhibit A ⬇️😎).

Jen is a vital part of our team — smart, sharp, and always on point. We’re lucky to have her!

Drop a 🎂 in the comments to help us celebrate her today!

08/13/2025

Pencils ✏️ Notebooks 📓 Backpacks 🎒 But what about your child's financial education?

A 2013 Cambridge University study found money habits formed by age seven! Add money smarts to your checklist this back-to-school season with these age-appropriate financial lessons. Turn everyday activities into learning experiences that will set them up for success. Which of these steps have you already taken with your kids?

08/07/2025

July delivered big wins for U.S. markets as trade agreements and stellar Q2 earnings pushed the Nasdaq above 21,000 for the first time. While the Fed held rates steady, consumer spending powered the economy to 3% growth. Back-to-school season is here - families are expected to spend nearly \$39 billion getting kids ready for the new academic year.

Stocks rode the wave of trade developments and Q2 corporate results to advance last month, pushing market averages to multiple record highs.

08/04/2025

The BBB Act increases estate and gift tax exemptions to $15 million for single filers and $30 million for those filing jointly. Plus, charitable contributions up to $1,000 for single filers and $2,000 for those filing jointly can now be deducted without itemizing.

Let's chat if you want more information before you meet with your tax professional.

Source: IRS.Gov, July 14, 2025

08/02/2025

Business owners, take note! The BBB Act permanently establishes the 20% qualified business income deduction for sole proprietorships, partnerships, and S-Corps. It also restores 100% expensing for capital investments and raises the 1099-K reporting threshold to $20,000/200 transactions.

Let's chat if you want more information before you meet with your tax professional.

Source: IRS.Gov, July 14, 2025