Client Impact
To offer a glimpse into how our guidance can provide value, here are three case studies that explore how we have helped clients with different dilemmas:
Case Study 1 – An Unexpected Layoff
In 2023, we were introduced to a client’s mother who had faced an unexpected layoff from her job several years shy of her anticipated retirement. Overwhelmed by fear and uncertainty about her financial future, she possessed a modest nest egg but lacked the knowledge to evaluate her finances effectively. Collaboratively, we embarked on devising a plan tailored to her needs. Through comprehensive education and clear, accessible guidance, we empowered her to comprehend her financial situation and chart a path forward.
Thrillingly, after reviewing this client’s financial portfolio, we determined that she didn’t have to go back to work. She chose to retire earlier than expected and ultimately found herself flourishing in this newfound chapter of life. With the freedom of retirement, she joyfully welcomed her first grandchild into the world, unencumbered by the constraints of a demanding job.
Case Study 2 – The Sale of a Business
One of our clients successfully sold his business for a substantial sum, amounting to millions of dollars. However, this windfall also meant facing an exorbitant tax liability. Instead of subjecting him to taxes on the full gain, we collaborated closely with him, leveraging our insights in tax- smart investment planning and alternative investments to devise a strategy.
Incorporating an opportunity zone investment not only helped enable a portion of the gains to be mitigated from taxation but also was an opportunity to establish a tax-efficient income stream for him. This strategic move not only saved our client a substantial sum, but it also enabled us to diversify his portfolio into non-correlated investments, helping to bolster his financial resilience.
Case Study 3 – Life Insurance Rider
We recently assisted a married couple who held substantial cash values in their life insurance policies and harbored worries about the escalating expenses associated with nursing home and assisted living care. Introducing them to the chronic care rider program proved to be a valuable addition. This rider enables them to utilize a portion of their death benefit to cover potential future assisted living expenses.
We integrated this rider into their existing policy. While riders generally entail additional costs, this couple maintained their original death benefit while simultaneously reducing future premium payments. They now possess the reassurance of knowing this option is available, if needed. However, in the event it goes unused, the remainder of the death benefit will be passed on to their beneficiaries. They are delighted with this enhanced protection for their financial future.
This information is for educational and illustrative purposes only, is not a recommendation or investment advice, and is not indicative of future results. Individual results and circumstances will vary.
Alternative investments involve a high degree of risk, often engage in leveraging and other speculative investment practices that may increase the risk of investment loss, can be highly illiquid, are not required to provide periodic pricing or valuation information to investors, may involve complex tax structures and delays in distributing tax information, are not subject to the same regulatory requirements as more traditional investments, and often charge high fees, which may erode performance. An investment is appropriate only for investors who have the capacity to absorb a loss of some or all of their investment.
Asset allocation and diversification do not ensure a profit or protect against loss. Stifel does not provide legal or tax advice. You should consult with your legal or tax advisor regarding your particular situation.
Case Study 1 – An Unexpected Layoff
In 2023, we were introduced to a client’s mother who had faced an unexpected layoff from her job several years shy of her anticipated retirement. Overwhelmed by fear and uncertainty about her financial future, she possessed a modest nest egg but lacked the knowledge to evaluate her finances effectively. Collaboratively, we embarked on devising a plan tailored to her needs. Through comprehensive education and clear, accessible guidance, we empowered her to comprehend her financial situation and chart a path forward.
Thrillingly, after reviewing this client’s financial portfolio, we determined that she didn’t have to go back to work. She chose to retire earlier than expected and ultimately found herself flourishing in this newfound chapter of life. With the freedom of retirement, she joyfully welcomed her first grandchild into the world, unencumbered by the constraints of a demanding job.
Case Study 2 – The Sale of a Business
One of our clients successfully sold his business for a substantial sum, amounting to millions of dollars. However, this windfall also meant facing an exorbitant tax liability. Instead of subjecting him to taxes on the full gain, we collaborated closely with him, leveraging our insights in tax- smart investment planning and alternative investments to devise a strategy.
Incorporating an opportunity zone investment not only helped enable a portion of the gains to be mitigated from taxation but also was an opportunity to establish a tax-efficient income stream for him. This strategic move not only saved our client a substantial sum, but it also enabled us to diversify his portfolio into non-correlated investments, helping to bolster his financial resilience.
Case Study 3 – Life Insurance Rider
We recently assisted a married couple who held substantial cash values in their life insurance policies and harbored worries about the escalating expenses associated with nursing home and assisted living care. Introducing them to the chronic care rider program proved to be a valuable addition. This rider enables them to utilize a portion of their death benefit to cover potential future assisted living expenses.
We integrated this rider into their existing policy. While riders generally entail additional costs, this couple maintained their original death benefit while simultaneously reducing future premium payments. They now possess the reassurance of knowing this option is available, if needed. However, in the event it goes unused, the remainder of the death benefit will be passed on to their beneficiaries. They are delighted with this enhanced protection for their financial future.
This information is for educational and illustrative purposes only, is not a recommendation or investment advice, and is not indicative of future results. Individual results and circumstances will vary.
Alternative investments involve a high degree of risk, often engage in leveraging and other speculative investment practices that may increase the risk of investment loss, can be highly illiquid, are not required to provide periodic pricing or valuation information to investors, may involve complex tax structures and delays in distributing tax information, are not subject to the same regulatory requirements as more traditional investments, and often charge high fees, which may erode performance. An investment is appropriate only for investors who have the capacity to absorb a loss of some or all of their investment.
Asset allocation and diversification do not ensure a profit or protect against loss. Stifel does not provide legal or tax advice. You should consult with your legal or tax advisor regarding your particular situation.