Justin Branch, CFP

10/15/2026

We all learned exponential functions in school.

Hopefully. 😂

Take a second to really think about this simple graph, because it's easy to miss its relevance.

The more time, "x," you have, the greater the potential value of "y."

That's the mathematics behind compound growth.

Once I really understood that, I couldn't unsee it.

If we can give our dollars more time to work, imagine what that could mean for our future.

Start early young investors. Give it time to grow.

10/14/2026

Certain people contribute the maximum amount to their 401(k) each year.

Think about that for a second...

In 2026, that's $24,500.

For some, that's simply not an achievable number.

For others, it's the norm.

The real question isn't how much you should be deferring.

The real question is:

What makes sense for you?

Your cash flow.

Your goals.

Your debt.

Your family.

Your future.

Forget the financial jargon.

I don't want what's best for a textbook.

I want what's best for the people.

What's best for you?

10/13/2026

You wake up Monday morning and realize...

I just got fired.

Pain. Frustration. Disappointment.

Then reality sets in.

Health Insurance. Life Insurance. Retirement Accounts. Stock Plans.

For some, being let go is judgment day for planning. For others, it's simply part of the process.

Don't wait for a career transition to understand your benefits. Today is the day to build a future that's planned.

10/09/2026

A workplace retirement plan review doesn't automatically mean a rollover.

Sometimes it's simply understanding what you already have.

A review may include:

• Contribution rates
• Employer's match
• Investment allocation
• Plan fees
• Beneficiaries
• Retirement income goals

Every individual and every workplace plan is different, so recommendations depend on the person and the options available within the plan.

If someone reviewed your workplace plan tomorrow, which area would you want them to focus on first?

10/08/2026

This may sound weird to say on LinkedIn, but I absolutely love my job.

Today I took a trip to our NYC office to participate in a retirement forum with other professionals in the industry.

I look forward to sharing new ideas and concepts with you all.

Remember to continue smiling, and always remember God loves you.

10/06/2026

Interest rates have dominated financial headlines for years.

Many prospective homebuyers are waiting for rates to fall before making a move.

But what if rates aren't the biggest obstacle?

Is it:

• Interest rates?

• Home prices?

• Lack of savings?

• Uncertainty about future income?

• Fear of making the wrong decision?

For many people, waiting has become the default strategy.

But is waiting actually a plan?

I came across an interesting article from The Wall Street Journal discussing today's mortgage-rate environment by Miranda Marquit. Check out her content as well:

What do you think is preventing more people from becoming homeowners today?

Explore current mortgage rates and what they mean for home buyers.

10/05/2026

The S&P 500 is a benchmark, not a full retirement strategy.

If I have every dollar in an index, what happens if the market heads in a negative direction?

What about International exposure?

Does fixed income even matter?

Maybe my time horizon needs to change?

Am I comfortable taking withdrawals during a declining market?

While index investing can be a cost effective, passive, and a simple accumulation strategy... What happens when it's time to stop contributing and start withdrawing?

10/02/2026

Person A - $1.5m in their 401(k), $100k in cash, $50k in car loans, and has a mortgage of around $250k looking to retire in 2 years. 60 years old. They've never done planning, and always go with their gut to make financial decisions.

Person B - $500k in their 401(k), $50k in cash and no debt. 65 years old. They've spoke with a CFP® professional and have concluded they are able to retire comfortably given their spending goals and life style.

Which person is better prepared for retirement?

10/01/2026

Special Olympics has been one of the most rewarding experiences in my entire life.

I'll never forget traveling to Disney in 2022 and witnessing athletes from across the country compete at the Special Olympics USA Games.

Coaching has taught me the importance of repetition, individualized support, teamwork, and adapting a plan to each individual.

From basketball to track and field, it has been an honor to support this incredible community.

I'm extremely grateful to be apart of Special Olympics, and for the opportunity to contribute with the athletes, families, coaches, and volunteers who make it all possible.

09/30/2026

The hardest financial question isn't about investments.

It's:

"Am I making the right decisions?"

People ask this about:

Their 401(k).

Retirement.

Insurance.

College planning.

Social Security.

Taxes.

Most financial decisions aren't difficult because the options are confusing.

They're difficult because you have to live with the consequences.

That's why planning matters.

Not because it predicts the future.

Because it helps you make better decisions today.