Melanie J Financial

05/28/2026

money.com

05/26/2026

An HSA is more than a way to pay for current healthcare costs. It can play a critical role in long term retirement planning when paired with a 401(k). The average 65-year-old today may need more than $172,000 for healthcare expenses in retirement, yet many employees have not accounted for this in their savings strategy.
By using both an HSA and a 401(k), employees can strengthen their financial future. Those who take advantage of this combination tend to save more, feel more confident about retirement, and are less likely to tap into their savings early. Together, these benefits create a more complete approach to preparing for both everyday needs and future healthcare costs.

fidelityworkplace.com

05/25/2026

Today, we pause to remember and honor the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country.

In observance of Memorial Day, our office will be closed Monday, May 25. We are forever grateful for those who served and gave their lives for our freedom.

05/22/2026

This weekend we pause to remember and honor the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country.

In observance of Memorial Day, our office will close at noon Friday, May 22nd & close Monday, May 25. We are forever grateful for those who served and gave their lives for our freedom.

Wishing everyone a safe and meaningful Memorial Day weekend from all of us at Melanie J Financial.

05/22/2026

Join us in congratulating Amalia Knutson, daughter of our very own Jennifer Knutson, on her high school graduation!

We also want to celebrate all of the amazing graduates in the Class of 2026 and all of our clients and families experiencing this exciting season of life. Your hard work, dedication, and perseverance have paid off, and we cannot wait to see what your future holds!

“The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.” — Eleanor Roosevelt

Congratulations, graduates!

05/21/2026

Following the index's pullback in Q1, there has been some incremental progress in the Middle East (i.e. ceasefire negotiations vs. widespread bombing) and economic data has been resilient through the disruptions.

Read more in the Weekly Market Guide.

GCM_Weekly_Market_Guide.pdf

05/20/2026

Stocks are coming off a weak session, the third consecutive lower finish for the S&P 500. Mega-cap and other growth stocks lagged, though an intraday rebound across semiconductor names helped the major averages improve.

Read more in the Morning Brew.

GCM_Morning_Brew.pdf

05/20/2026

At Melanie J Financial, we believe financial guidance isn’t just for millionaires, it’s for anyone who wants to build a better future.

You don’t have to “make it” before asking for help. In fact, starting early can make all the difference. Whether you’re just beginning your career, growing your family, planning for retirement, or simply trying to feel more confident with your finances, having a plan matters.

And if you feel like you’ve waited too long? You haven’t. It’s never too early and never too late to take control of your financial future.

Small steps today can lead to big changes tomorrow.

05/19/2026

Record Memorial Day travel projections signal resilient consumer demand despite higher prices. CIO Larry Adam shares insight in today's Up & Adam.

amazonaws.com

05/14/2026

None of us like to think about the “what ifs” in life, but having a plan in place is one of the greatest gifts you can leave your family.

From beneficiaries and life insurance to wills, trusts, and making sure your loved ones know where everything is, preparation matters. It’s not about fear, it’s about protecting the people you love most.

At Melanie J Financial, we believe financial planning is about more than money, it’s about peace of mind, stewardship, and making sure your family is cared for no matter what life brings.

05/12/2026

Stocks are coming off a higher session that saw the S&P 500 and Nasdaq Composite reach record highs, as continued strength across semiconductor and AI-related names outweighed escalating tensions between the U.S. and Iran.

Read more in the Morning Brew.

GCM_Morning_Brew.pdf