Adams Financial

09/29/2026

There’s a saying about diversification that goes, “If there isn’t something you hate in your portfolio, then you’re not diversified.” This is a tongue-in-cheek saying that means a truly diversified mix of assets will always include something underperforming or out of favor at any given time. Right now, bonds are the asset class that meets that description.

There are some intelligent investors who recently have been making the case against owning bonds. So should you still own bonds? Here's what we think: bit.ly/4ADFESP.

09/22/2026

Scammers are getting more sophisticated, and the financial toll is growing. Americans reported a record $15.9 billion in scam losses last year, up 25% from the year before. And the real number may be much higher, since many victims never report what happened.

The problem is also widespread: 98% of Americans surveyed said they believe scammers have targeted them, and 3 in 10 said they’ve personally lost money or information. Recovering stolen funds can be difficult, especially when someone is tricked into authorizing a payment. Victims may also be targeted again by criminals claiming they can recover the original loss for a fee.

If someone contacts you unexpectedly about money, an investment, or recovering funds you’ve already lost, slow down before sending anything. Verify who you’re dealing with through a trusted source, and be especially cautious if there’s pressure to act quickly.

Dig deeper into this Associated Press / FRONTLINE story at bit.ly/4ysLN2R.

09/14/2026

If it feels like your money isn’t stretching as far as it used to, you’re not alone. Rising costs have a way of quietly showing up in everyday life, and over time they can start to slow your financial momentum. The goal isn’t to overhaul everything all at once, but to make your plan more adaptable so it continues to work, even when expenses shift.

A good place to start is with how your budget is structured. Instead of relying on fixed numbers that can feel restrictive, consider giving yourself room to adjust:

▪️Use ranges instead of exact limits for categories like groceries, gas, and utilities
▪️Revisit essential expenses regularly so your plan reflects current costs
▪️Build in small buffers for categories that naturally fluctuate

These small changes can make your finances feel less rigid and more realistic. At the same time, it’s worth taking a closer look at where money may be slipping through the cracks. Recurring charges tend to increase quietly, especially subscriptions and auto-renewals.

▪️A quick review of these expenses can often uncover easy opportunities to free up cash flow
▪️Even small adjustments here can create more flexibility without requiring big lifestyle changes

Beyond the numbers, your systems and habits matter just as much. The people who stay on track during periods of rising costs aren’t doing anything extreme, they’re simply consistent. A few simple
habits can go a long way:

▪️Automate savings and key payments so your priorities stay on track
▪️Check in quarterly to catch changes early and adjust as needed
▪️Stay organized so nothing gets missed or overlooked

And then there’s lifestyle creep which is often overlooked. Lifestyle creep isn’t a big financial decision, it’s many small ones, such as the convenience purchase, the upgrade, or the extra subscription. That’s why it helps to stay intentional:

▪️When your income increases, decide ahead of time where that money goes
▪️Keep a “fun” category—but give it a clear boundary
▪️Periodically review recurring expenses to keep them aligned with your priorities

This isn’t about cutting back on everything you enjoy, but instead making sure your spending reflects what matters to you. When your plan is flexible, your systems are strong, and your decisions are intentional, you build momentum, which is more valuable and maintainable than perfection. If you’re thinking about how this fits into your own financial picture, let’s set time to walk through it together.

09/11/2026

09/01/2026

Beyond the headlines and by the numbers—a digest of this week's top financial news for August 31, 2026: bit.ly/4xqU46G

08/25/2026

Early estimates for the 2027 Social Security cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) have moved lower as inflation moderates. New projections suggest the 2027 COLA may fall between 3.4% and 3.6%. The official adjustment has not been announced yet. The final number will depend on inflation data for July, August, and September.

Social Security COLAs are calculated using the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers, known as CPI-W. July data showed CPI-W rose 3.4% over the past 12 months. The broader consumer price index also rose 3.4% year over year.

One estimate from AARP suggests a 3.5% COLA would raise the average retired worker’s benefit by about $73 per month.

The Social Security cost-of-living adjustment is an annual change that helps Social Security and Supplemental Security Income benefits keep pace with inflation. The Social Security Administration typically announces the official COLA for the upcoming year in October.

For retirees and near-retirees, the COLA is an important reminder that inflation can affect income, purchasing power, household expenses, and long-term financial decisions.

08/18/2026

The Social Security Act was signed into law by President Franklin D. Roosevelt on August 14, 1935, establishing a federal benefit system for older Americans. Here are some facts about Social Security as it turns 91 (see brochure at bit.ly/3SBHbYi for more details):

▪️ Eligibility is determined by work history. You must have a minimum of 40 "credits" (about 10 years of work) to qualify for Social Security.
▪️ Your benefit is based off the average earnings over 35 years.
▪️ Your date of birth directly affects your benefit.
▪️ When you reach full retirement age, taking social security does not reduce your benefit if you continue to work.
▪️ You may be eligible for a spousal benefit if you're at least age 62.
▪️ With the correct timing, your spousal benefit can be up to half of your spouse's benefit.
▪️ Survivor benefits could exist if a spouse passes away.
▪️ Social Security benefits max tax rate is 85%.
▪️ Not all income increases your tax liability, such as Roth distributions, life insurance proceeds, or qualified charitable distributions.
▪️ A divorcee may be eligible for their ex-spouse benefit. To qualify, you must be unmarried, at least 62 years old, have been married to the ex-spouse for at least 10 years, and your ex must be eligible for retirement or disability benefits.

Hopefully you found one of these facts helpful or learned something new. As always, please let us know if you would like to discuss your accounts, financial plan or the markets. Thank you for the opportunity to serve you and your family.

This information may not be relied on for the purpose of determining your social security benefits or eligibility, or avoiding any federal tax penalties. You are encouraged to seek advice from your own tax or legal professional.

08/11/2026

Beyond the headlines and by the numbers—a digest of this week's top financial news for August 10, 2026: bit.ly/3SopcEF

08/06/2026

Shifting the way you look at your bucket list, from a list of things to do before you die to a list of things to do right now, might lead to a more rewarding—and ultimately fulfilled—lifestyle.

The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. Some of this material was developed and produced by FMG Suite to provide information on a topic that may be of interest. FMG Suite is not affiliated with the named representative, broker-dealer, state- or SEC- registered investment advisory firm. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security.