CTL Financial, LLC

08/04/2026

The Federal Reserve held interest rates steady at its July meeting, but the decision was not unanimous.

The Federal Open Market Committee voted 9-3 to keep the federal funds rate in a range of 3.5% to 3.75%.

Three regional Fed presidents voted against the decision, preferring to raise rates by 0.25 percentage points instead.

The split reflects ongoing concern about inflation, which has remained above the Fed’s 2% target for more than five years.

Recent price pressures have been tied to several factors, including tariffs and higher energy costs connected to conflict in the Middle East.

The Fed’s statement noted that economic activity continues to expand at a solid pace, while job growth has kept pace with workforce growth, and unemployment has changed little.

For households and businesses, the decision is a reminder that interest rates remain closely tied to inflation, borrowing costs, employment, energy prices, and the broader economic outlook.


Source:

Despite increasing support for a rate increase, the Federal Open Market Committee voted 9-3 to leave the federal funds rate in a range between 3.5% and 3.75%.

05/11/2026

That yellow section? That's money you never saved, your money made it for you.

This is compound interest in action. Start with $1,000/year at a hypothetical 5 percent return, and by year 30, you've built nearly $70,000. But the real story is the yellow: Interest earning interest.

Year 1: almost no interest at all.
Year 30: the interest on your interest alone might cover a year of car payments (or more).

You don't need to invest more. You need to stay focused on your strategy. What's one financial habit you wish you'd started earlier? Drop it below. 👇

03/04/2026

You might be paying more in taxes than you need to—and not even realize it.

From investment timing to account selection, small decisions can have a big impact on your total tax bill. Here are five areas to keep in mind this tax season.

01/16/2026

There is always something to worry about when investing. In fact, there’s even a saying about it. “Wall Street climbs a wall of worry.” Some people believe, “I’ll wait until it all gets resolved.” But remember, those were the same people who in the Spring suggested, “I’m going to the sidelines until the tariff issue gets resolved.” Since May, stock prices have advanced for six consecutive months, despite unresolved tariff issues.

10/08/2025

A government shutdown can sound alarming, but here’s what it really means:

Federal offices may close or reduce hours, and “non-essential” services pause. Some federal workers may face furloughs or delayed pay, while places such as national parks and museums may shut their doors.

At the same time, many essential services continue, including Social Security and mail delivery.

Here’s a quick breakdown:
Federal offices close or reduce hours
“Non-essential” services paused
Some federal workers are furloughed or paid late
National parks and museums closed
Services like Social Security and mail continue

It’s a moment that can cause disruption, but it doesn’t mean everything stops. We'll be keeping an eye on these developments as they unfold.

08/27/2025

There’s something for everyone in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act of 2025.

In fact, the Tax Foundation calculated that in dollars and cents, each taxpayer will pay $4,000 less in federal taxes starting in 2026.

That news brightens my day, and it looks like it may continue to buoy investors' spirits in the second half of the year.

07/28/2025

The One Big Beautiful Bill Act: Key Tax Changes Starting 2025

👍EVERYONE 👍
Standard deduction increases to $15,750 for single filers, and $31,500 for those filing jointly.
State and local tax (SALT) deduction increases to $40,000 (temporary)

👥 SENIORS (65+) 👥
$6,000 bonus deduction (2025-2028)

👨‍💼 WORKERS 👨‍💼
No tax on tips (up to $25,000)
No tax on overtime (up to $12,500 single filer/$25,000 married filing jointly)

🏢 BUSINESS OWNERS 🏢
20 percent qualified business income deduction is now permanent
100 percent capital expensing restored

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 FAMILIES 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦
Child tax credit increases to $2,200
Dependent care limits increase to $7,500

🏡 ESTATE MANAGEMENT 🏡
Exemption increases to $15 million/$30 million (starts 2026)

IMPORTANT: Some of these changes are temporary (2025-2028). Consult a tax professional for your specific situation.

04/04/2025

Today’s news moves so quickly, but as you can see, stock prices have intra-year drawdowns every year. So, while 2025 might feel extraordinary, history shows it’s pretty much par for the course.

02/27/2025

I am pleased to announce I’ve been named as a Baltimore area Five Star Wealth Manager.
Over 2,300 Baltimore Area wealth managers were considered for the award with just over 10% being named Five Star Wealth Managers. I want to thank a great team for all their support!
We will strive to continue providing outstanding service and comprehensive financial advice to our valued clients!

https://www.fivestarprofessional.com/wmdisclosures/BALWM25

02/06/2025

Do you know your IRA Contribution Deadlines?

⚫ You have until April 15, 2025, to make a 2024 IRA contribution.

⚫ Once you reach age 73, you must begin taking RMDs from a traditional IRA in most circumstances. Withdrawals from traditional IRAs are taxed as ordinary income and, if taken before age 59½, may be subject to a 10% federal income tax penalty.

⚫ To qualify for the tax-free and penalty-free withdrawal of earnings, Roth IRA distributions must meet a 5-year holding requirement and occur after age 59½. Tax-free and penalty-free withdrawals can also be taken under certain other circumstances, such as the owner's death. The original Roth IRA owner is not required to take minimum annual withdrawals.

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