
Hosted by Fi Plan Partners · EN

Inflation, Wages, and the Global Impact of China Economic data released over the past two weeks has provided investors with important insight into the health of the U.S. economy and the potential direction of markets moving forward. One of the most significant reports came from the latest jobs data, which showed the U.S. economy added approximately 115,000 jobs. Even more encouraging, average earnings increased 3.6% year-over-year, coming in stronger than many economists expected and offering another sign of resilience in the labor market. While wage growth is a positive development for workers, the next key question is how much of those gains consumers actually get to keep after inflation. This week’s upcoming Consumer Price Index (CPI) and Producer Price Index (PPI) reports will be closely watched as investors look for clearer signs on inflation trends. These reports remain two of the most important measures of pricing pressures throughout the economy. Energy prices continue to play a major role in the inflation story. Elevated gasoline costs are forcing consumers to dedicate more of their budgets toward fuel expenses, leaving less available for spending in other parts of the economy. Investors will be watching carefully for any signs of “demand destruction,” where higher costs begin slowing consumer activity in other sectors. Adding to the importance of the week, President Trump is expected to travel to China for a high-profile meeting with President Xi Jinping. Discussions are expected to center around tariffs, trade cooperation, and geopolitical concerns involving Iran. Markets will be closely monitoring whether the two countries can make progress toward increasing trade activity between the U.S. and China, which could help ease inflationary pressures globally. China’s own inflation data has shown rising pricing pressures, fueled in part by the conflict involving Iran and the impact on oil markets. As one of the largest buyers of Iranian oil, China’s role in global energy demand remains significant. Any cooperation or policy shifts resulting from these meetings could influence inflation trends, energy markets, and employment conditions both domestically and abroad. With strong economic data already emerging, investors are now focused on how these global developments may shape the market outlook in the months ahead. Broadening Market Strength Supports Investor Confidence Despite ongoing uncertainty surrounding the Middle East, elevated oil prices, and continued questions about Federal Reserve policy, the stock market has remained remarkably resilient. One of the key reasons for this strength has been the continued momentum in corporate earnings. Coming into the year, many analysts anticipated that market leadership would begin to expand beyond the large-cap technology companies that have dominated returns in recent years. That trend is now beginning to materialize, creating what many investors view as a healthier and more sustainable market environment. From January 1 through April 24, small-cap and mid-cap stocks outperformed the S&P 500, signaling stronger participation across a broader range of companies and sectors. This broadening market participation is an encouraging development because it reduces the market’s dependence on a small group of mega-cap stocks to drive overall performance. A wider range of companies contributing to market gains can help strengthen the market’s ability to navigate uncertainty, whether from geopolitical risks, inflation concerns, or shifting Federal Reserve expectations. Analysts also continue to forecast strong corporate earnings growth across multiple market segments, with some projecting record earnings levels by the end of the year. The combination of resilient earnings, improving participation across the market, and continued economic strength provides a constructive backdrop for investors moving forward. While uncertainty remains a constant factor in financial markets, the expanding strength beneath the surface of the market has become an increasingly positive sign for the remainder of the year. Greg Powell, CIMA® President and CEO Wealth Consultant Email Greg Powell here Bobby Norman, CFP®, AIF®, CEPA® Managing Director Wealth Consultant Email Bobby Norman here Trey Booth, CFA®, AIF® Chief Investment Officer Wealth Consultant Email Trey Booth here Ty Miller, AIF® Vice President Wealth Consultant Email Ty Miller here Fi Plan Partners is an independent investment firm in Birmingham, AL, with a team of professionals serving clients across the nation through financial planning, wealth management and business consulting. The team at Fi Plan Partners creates strategies in the best interest of their clients using fee based investing. The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and may not be invested into directly. Economic forecasts set forth in this presentation may not develop as predicted. No strategy can ensure success or protect against a loss. Stock investing involves risk including potential loss of principal. Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC and a registered investment advisor.The post What’s China Got to Do with It? first appeared on Fi Plan Partners.

On this week’s episode of Educational Insights, Ashley Page explores why e-commerce delivery trends are shifting from speed to cost savings as rising shipping expenses reshape consumer priorities. He breaks down how retailers are adapting to changing shopper preferences, with more consumers now choosing free standard delivery over expedited shipping. He also explores why these evolving retail trends matter for the broader economy and financial markets, given retail’s major role in consumer spending and U.S. GDP growth. Watch to learn more. Ashley Page, JD, MBA Senior Vice President Wealth Consultant Email Ashley Page here Fi Plan Partners is an independent investment firm in Birmingham, AL, with a team of professionals serving clients across the nation through financial planning, wealth management and business consulting. The team at Fi Plan Partners creates strategies in the best interest of their clients using fee based investing. The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and may not be invested into directly. Economic forecasts set forth in this presentation may not develop as predicted. No strategy can ensure success or protect against a loss. Stock investing involves risk including potential loss of principal. Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC and a registered investment advisor.The post Changes in E-Commerce: What Gives? first appeared on Fi Plan Partners.

Federal Reserve Transition and Rising Dissent The most recent Federal Open Market Committee meeting marked a significant transition point, as it was the final meeting led by Chairman Jerome Powell. While leadership changes at the Fed are not unusual, one unexpected development stands out: Powell will remain on the Board of Governors after stepping down as chairman, an uncommon move that introduces a new dynamic within the institution. This decision raises important questions about influence and governance. Former chairs rarely stay on due to the potential complications of overlapping authority, making Powell’s continued presence noteworthy as the Fed prepares for incoming leadership under Kevin Walsh. Equally significant is the rise in dissent among committee members. Four out of twelve participants opposed the latest decision, bringing the annual dissent rate to approximately 19%, a relatively high figure by historical standards. While markets often interpret dissent as instability, it may instead signal a healthier, more transparent decision-making process. Diverging viewpoints can lead to more rigorous debate and ultimately stronger policy outcomes. In a complex and uncertain economic environment, unanimity may be less realistic, and less desirable, than thoughtful disagreement. Increased openness within the Fed could provide clearer insight into policy direction and improve market understanding over time. Technology Drives a Strong Earnings Season Corporate earnings have taken center stage, delivering a much-needed boost to market confidence. Following a period of geopolitical tension and rising oil prices, recent earnings reports, particularly from the technology sector, have exceeded expectations and helped propel the S&P 500 higher. The scale of growth within technology has been particularly striking. First-quarter earnings for the sector are projected to grow by more than 50%, far outpacing the rest of the index. Even more notable is the upward revision of future expectations, with 2026 earnings estimates increasing by nearly 15 percentage points as companies accelerate capital investments, especially in artificial intelligence. While debate continues around the long-term payoff of AI spending, early indicators suggest these investments are already contributing to stronger earnings. Enhanced productivity and improved margins are reinforcing the sector’s leadership position. If execution remains strong and economic conditions stay supportive, technology companies appear well-positioned to sustain above-average growth. This momentum could continue to play a central role in driving broader market performance and potentially reducing volatility, particularly in historically turbulent election cycles. Economic Stability: GDP and Labor Market Strength The broader economic picture remains steady, with first-quarter real GDP coming in at approximately 2%, aligning with long-term growth targets. After accounting for inflation, this figure reflects a stable and resilient expansion, supported primarily by strong consumer spending. Consumers continue to be the backbone of the economy, representing roughly 70% of total activity. Their consistent spending has offset weaker areas such as housing, which has remained a drag on growth. Meanwhile, components like government spending, trade, and inventories have shown volatility, largely influenced by policy uncertainty and external factors. One of the most compelling data points comes from the labor market. Initial jobless claims recently dropped to 189,000, the lowest level since 1969 on a raw, non-adjusted basis. This milestone underscores the continued strength of employment conditions, one half of the Federal Reserve’s dual mandate alongside inflation control. While inflation remains an ongoing challenge, the strength in employment provides a solid foundation for the economy. Markets have responded positively to these signals, though attention remains focused on how external pressures, such as geopolitical tensions and energy prices, may influence future quarters. Greg Powell, CIMA® President and CEO Wealth Consultant Email Greg Powell here Bobby Norman, CFP®, AIF®, CEPA® Managing Director Wealth Consultant Email Bobby Norman here Trey Booth, CFA®, AIF® Chief Investment Officer Wealth Consultant Email Trey Booth here Ty Miller, AIF® Vice President Wealth Consultant Email Ty Miller here Fi Plan Partners is an independent investment firm in Birmingham, AL, with a team of professionals serving clients across the nation through financial planning, wealth management and business consulting. The team at Fi Plan Partners creates strategies in the best interest of their clients using fee based investing. The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and may not be invested into directly. Economic forecasts set forth in this presentation may not develop as predicted. No strategy can ensure success or protect against a loss. Stock investing involves risk including potential loss of principal. Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC and a registered investment advisor.The post Earnings Blowout first appeared on Fi Plan Partners.

On this week’s episode of Educational Insights, Ty Miller breaks down the key drivers of economic growth, explaining how GDP is shaped by population trends and productivity. He explores why slowing population growth has weighed on the economy and how advancements in artificial intelligence could help fuel the next phase of expansion. While concerns around job disruption persist, historical trends show that innovation has consistently created new opportunities, reinforcing the economy’s ability to adapt and grow over time. Watch to learn more. Ty Miller Vice President Wealth Consultant Email Ty Miller here Fi Plan Partners is an independent investment firm in Birmingham, AL, with a team of professionals serving clients across the nation through financial planning, wealth management and business consulting. The team at Fi Plan Partners creates strategies in the best interest of their clients using fee based investing. The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and may not be invested into directly. Economic forecasts set forth in this presentation may not develop as predicted. No strategy can ensure success or protect against a loss. Stock investing involves risk including potential loss of principal. Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC and a registered investment advisor.The post GDP and the Need for Enhanced Productivity first appeared on Fi Plan Partners.

Federal Reserve Leadership in Transition A significant shift is underway at the Federal Reserve, placing unusual attention on both policy decisions and leadership changes. The Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) convenes this week to determine the direction of interest rates, whether to raise, lower, or maintain current levels. While expectations suggest rates will remain unchanged, the real focus lies in the messaging that follows the decision, particularly during the chairman’s press conference, where future policy direction is often clarified. This meeting carries added weight as it is likely the final one led by current Chairman Jerome Powell. A key development is the anticipated confirmation of Kevin Warsh as his successor, following movement in the Senate to advance his nomination. The timing creates a rare overlap in influence, with both Powell and Warsh shaping expectations around monetary policy. This dual presence introduces a degree of uncertainty, as markets interpret signals from both current and incoming leadership. Another point of interest is whether Powell will remain on the Federal Reserve Board after stepping down as chairman. Historically, most departing chairs have chosen to leave entirely, though remaining as a voting member is an option. Such a scenario could create an unconventional dynamic within the Fed’s leadership structure. At the same time, expectations for interest rate cuts have moderated. Many market participants now anticipate a steady rate environment in the near term. As leadership transitions, attention will remain fixed not only on official statements but also on market reactions, particularly movements in the 10-year Treasury yield, which often reflects the market’s true interpretation of policy direction. Market Breadth Signals a Stronger Rally While Federal Reserve policy remains a critical driver of market performance, corporate earnings and profit margins continue to play a foundational role. Alongside these factors, technical indicators offer valuable insight into the sustainability of market trends. One such indicator is the advance-decline line, which measures market breadth by tracking the number of advancing stocks versus declining ones. Unlike price-based indices that can be heavily influenced by large-cap stocks, this metric provides a clearer picture of overall market participation. Recent data shows encouraging signs. The advance-decline line has reached new highs, supported by broad participation across the market. Since the market’s low in late March, a majority of stocks have rebounded from oversold conditions, reinforcing the strength of the current rally. Historically, this type of widespread participation has been a reliable signal of more durable upward trends. The improvement in market breadth suggests that the rally is not narrowly concentrated but instead supported by a healthier underlying structure. While no single indicator is definitive, this development strengthens the case for continued market resilience. Oil Prices and Geopolitical Patterns Geopolitical events, particularly in the Middle East, often bring heightened attention to oil prices and their broader economic impact. Initial reactions to such events typically involve sharp price increases, reinforcing concerns about inflation and rising costs for consumers. However, historical trends reveal a more nuanced pattern. Data tracking oil price behavior before and after geopolitical events shows that prices often begin adjusting well in advance, suggesting that markets may anticipate disruptions before they fully materialize. More notably, the longer-term trend tends to contradict the initial spike. On average, oil prices are approximately 5% lower 65 days after a geopolitical event. Extending the timeline further, prices are typically down around 3% after 250 days, with median figures indicating even steeper declines. These patterns suggest that while short-term volatility is common, sustained increases are less typical. This tendency highlights the importance of maintaining a broader perspective when evaluating energy markets. While immediate price movements capture attention, longer-term trends often reflect stabilization or decline as markets adjust and uncertainties resolve. As geopolitical developments continue to unfold, oil prices remain a key variable to monitor, not only for their direct impact on consumers but also for their influence on inflation and overall economic conditions. Greg Powell, CIMA® President and CEO Wealth Consultant Email Greg Powell here Bobby Norman, CFP®, AIF®, CEPA® Managing Director Wealth Consultant Email Bobby Norman here Trey Booth, CFA®, AIF® Chief Investment Officer Wealth Consultant Email Trey Booth here Ty Miller, AIF® Vice President Wealth Consultant Email Ty Miller here Fi Plan Partners is an independent investment firm in Birmingham, AL, with a team of professionals serving clients across the nation through financial planning, wealth management and business consulting. The team at Fi Plan Partners creates strategies in the best interest of their clients using fee based investing. The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and may not be invested into directly. Economic forecasts set forth in this presentation may not develop as predicted. No strategy can ensure success or protect against a loss. Stock investing involves risk including potential loss of principal. Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC and a registered investment advisor.The post Shaking Up the Fed first appeared on Fi Plan Partners.

On this week’s episode of Educational Insights, Trey Booth shares the timeless story of a Chinese farmer to reframe how we interpret today’s headlines and market events. He connects this perspective to modern topics like tariffs, artificial intelligence, and economic uncertainty, illustrating how initial reactions often fail to capture the full picture. In a world driven by rapid news cycles, patience and perspective remain essential disciplines for making sound investment decisions. Watch to learn more. Trey Booth, CFA®, AIF® Chief Investment Officer Wealth Consultant Email Trey Booth here Fi Plan Partners is an independent investment firm in Birmingham, AL, with a team of professionals serving clients across the nation through financial planning, wealth management and business consulting. The team at Fi Plan Partners creates strategies in the best interest of their clients using fee based investing. The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and may not be invested into directly. Economic forecasts set forth in this presentation may not develop as predicted. No strategy can ensure success or protect against a loss. Stock investing involves risk including potential loss of principal. Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC and a registered investment advisor.The post Good News, Bad News… We’ll See first appeared on Fi Plan Partners.

Consumer Liquidity, Market Support, and Federal Reserve Watch As the calendar moves past Tax Day, fresh data provides a clearer view of consumer finances. This year has delivered a notable surge in tax refunds, rising 34% year-over-year heading into mid-April. In total, individual refunds have reached approximately $270 billion, well above last year’s $225 billion and prior years’ levels. This influx of cash offers a meaningful liquidity boost for consumers, helping offset persistent pressures such as elevated energy costs and broader inflationary trends. This added financial cushion comes at a critical time. While oil prices have recently eased from their peaks, they remain relatively high, continuing to strain household budgets. Increased refund activity may therefore serve as a stabilizing force, supporting spending and softening the impact of these external cost pressures. On the market side, recent developments have introduced both volatility and opportunity. A tentative geopolitical ceasefire initially sparked optimism, contributing to a market rally before signs of instability reintroduced uncertainty. Despite this, equities have shown resilience. The S&P 500 has established a higher technical support range, now sitting around 6,800 to 6,900, compared to the previous level, near 6,200. This shift suggests the market may have more room to absorb fluctuations while maintaining its upward trajectory. Attention is also turning toward monetary policy leadership. The United States Senate Banking Committee is set to hold a hearing on the nomination of Kevin Warsh as the next chair of the Federal Reserve. The process carries potential implications for market stability, particularly given ongoing tensions surrounding current Fed Chair Jerome Powell. A key date to watch is May 16, the target for finalizing the appointment. Delays or disputes could introduce further uncertainty into financial markets. Corporate Profits as the Market’s Anchor Despite the noise surrounding geopolitical tensions, fluctuating interest rate expectations, and valuation concerns, the fundamental driver of market performance remains unchanged: corporate profitability. Over the long term, there has been a strong correlation between profit margins and the trajectory of the S&P 500. Since 2010, corporate profit margins have trended upward significantly, reflecting improved efficiency, pricing power, and economic expansion. This trend continues to serve as a key pillar supporting equity valuations. Current projections suggest that first-quarter profit margins will reach approximately 14.18%, a substantial increase from 9.64% in late 2010 and approaching the record high of 14.45% achieved in the fourth quarter of last year. These elevated margins indicate that companies are maintaining strong earnings power, even amid broader economic uncertainty. As earnings season gains momentum, the focus on profit margins becomes increasingly important. If companies can sustain or even stabilize margins at current levels, the market is likely to retain enough strength to withstand external pressures, from geopolitical instability to shifting monetary policy expectations. While short-term volatility may persist, particularly in response to developments surrounding international conflicts and policy decisions, the underlying health of corporate earnings provides a stabilizing force. In the broader context, it is this earnings strength that will determine whether the market rally can endure. Greg Powell, CIMA® President and CEO Wealth Consultant Email Greg Powell here Bobby Norman, CFP®, AIF®, CEPA® Managing Director Wealth Consultant Email Bobby Norman here Trey Booth, CFA®, AIF® Chief Investment Officer Wealth Consultant Email Trey Booth here Ty Miller, AIF® Vice President Wealth Consultant Email Ty Miller here Fi Plan Partners is an independent investment firm in Birmingham, AL, with a team of professionals serving clients across the nation through financial planning, wealth management and business consulting. The team at Fi Plan Partners creates strategies in the best interest of their clients using fee based investing. The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and may not be invested into directly. Economic forecasts set forth in this presentation may not develop as predicted. No strategy can ensure success or protect against a loss. Stock investing involves risk including potential loss of principal. Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC and a registered investment advisor.The post Will the Market Rally Hold? first appeared on Fi Plan Partners.

On this week’s episode of Educational Insights, Ashley Page explores a rapidly growing trend of Americans relocating abroad in record numbers and what it could mean for the U.S. economy and financial markets. He breaks down the key drivers behind this shift, including rising domestic costs, the expansion of remote work, and evolving lifestyle priorities, while highlighting the potential long-term impact on economic growth and talent retention. As global mobility becomes more accessible, this perspective offers valuable insight into how shifting population trends may influence future investment and planning decisions. Watch to learn more. Ashley Page, JD, MBA Senior Vice President Wealth Consultant Email Ashley Page here Fi Plan Partners is an independent investment firm in Birmingham, AL, with a team of professionals serving clients across the nation through financial planning, wealth management and business consulting. The team at Fi Plan Partners creates strategies in the best interest of their clients using fee based investing. The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and may not be invested into directly. Economic forecasts set forth in this presentation may not develop as predicted. No strategy can ensure success or protect against a loss. Stock investing involves risk including potential loss of principal. Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC and a registered investment advisor.The post Leaving the U.S. & Why It Matters first appeared on Fi Plan Partners.

Technology Sector and Market Valuations Recent market volatility has led to increased analysis across key sectors, particularly technology. For several years, there have been concerns that the technology sector was overvalued, raising the risk that a correction could negatively impact the broader market. However, recent market movements have helped reset valuations. Forward price-to-earnings (P/E) ratios for technology stocks have declined significantly, from around 40 to approximately 20, bringing them more in line with the broader market. This shift is important because forward P/E is a key indicator used to assess whether stocks are overvalued or undervalued based on expected future growth rather than past performance. Despite this decline in valuations, earnings growth in the technology sector is still projected to remain strong, with expectations in the mid-teens or higher. This combination of lower valuations and continued earnings growth may attract new investment into the sector. As technology represents a significant portion of the overall market, renewed investor interest could help offset broader market weakness and support overall market stability. Inflation, Energy Prices, and Consumer Impact The latest Consumer Price Index (CPI) report showed a notable increase in inflation during March, with a 0.9% rise month over month. A significant portion of this increase, more than three-quarters, was driven by an 11% surge in energy prices. While rising energy costs are impactful, it is important to understand how they affect overall consumer spending. When a larger share of income is allocated to fuel, consumers are often forced to reduce spending in other areas. This concept, known as “demand destruction,” occurs when higher prices in one category lead to decreased demand in others. This trend was evident in the most recent data. Outside of energy, a substantial number of goods within the CPI actually saw price declines, with roughly 40% of tracked items decreasing in price. Additionally, recent credit card spending data shows an overall increase in consumer spending, but a disproportionate share, about 40%, has been directed toward gasoline purchases. While consumers may temporarily absorb these higher costs, particularly with the support of tax refunds, the longer-term effect is reduced flexibility in spending. If elevated energy prices persist, this shift could lead to continued strength in the energy sector while creating weakness in other areas of the economy. Geopolitical Tensions and Oil Supply Risks Ongoing geopolitical developments, particularly involving Iran and the United States, continue to play a critical role in energy markets. While initial expectations suggested a short-term conflict lasting four to six weeks, and some de-escalation has occurred, no permanent agreement has been reached. As a result, attention remains focused on the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global shipping route through which approximately 20% of the world’s oil supply passes. Control and restrictions in this region have created ongoing uncertainty in oil distribution. Iran has demonstrated its ability to influence the flow of oil through the strait, at times limiting access while allowing selective shipments. Meanwhile, U.S. efforts to impose additional restrictions further complicate the situation. This dynamic creates the potential for reduced oil supply over an extended period. If these constraints persist, oil prices may remain elevated for longer than initially anticipated. This could further contribute to the demand destruction discussed earlier, as consumers and businesses continue to adjust to higher energy costs. The situation remains fluid, and its impact on both energy markets and the broader economy will depend on future geopolitical developments. Greg Powell, CIMA® President and CEO Wealth Consultant Email Greg Powell here Bobby Norman, CFP®, AIF®, CEPA® Managing Director Wealth Consultant Email Bobby Norman here Trey Booth, CFA®, AIF® Chief Investment Officer Wealth Consultant Email Trey Booth here Ty Miller, AIF® Vice President Wealth Consultant Email Ty Miller here Fi Plan Partners is an independent investment firm in Birmingham, AL, with a team of professionals serving clients across the nation through financial planning, wealth management and business consulting. The team at Fi Plan Partners creates strategies in the best interest of their clients using fee based investing. The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and may not be invested into directly. Economic forecasts set forth in this presentation may not develop as predicted. No strategy can ensure success or protect against a loss. Stock investing involves risk including potential loss of principal. Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC and a registered investment advisor.The post Energy Prices and Your Wallet first appeared on Fi Plan Partners.

On this week’s episode of Educational Insights, Robert Moody breaks down one of the most important retirement decisions individuals face, which is when to begin claiming Social Security benefits. He walks through the key claiming ages, trade-offs between early and delayed benefits, and strategic considerations like spousal and survivor options that can significantly impact long-term outcomes. As retirement planning becomes more personalized, this perspective provides valuable insight into how individuals can make more informed, confident decisions about their financial future. Watch to learn more. Robert Moody, CFP®, CEPA® Senior Vice President Wealth Consultant Email Robert Moody here Fi Plan Partners is an independent investment firm in Birmingham, AL, with a team of professionals serving clients across the nation through financial planning, wealth management and business consulting. The team at Fi Plan Partners creates strategies in the best interest of their clients using fee based investing. The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and may not be invested into directly. Economic forecasts set forth in this presentation may not develop as predicted. No strategy can ensure success or protect against a loss. Stock investing involves risk including potential loss of principal. Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC and a registered investment advisor.The post When to Start Social Security Benefits first appeared on Fi Plan Partners.