Suddenly find yourself winning the lottery or with an unexpected inheritance? Or maybe you sold your company for a surprising amount. Managing sudden wealth includes both mental and financial considerations. So while it may seem like a dream come true for some, it can be detrimental to those who don’t know how to manage the sudden event.. Here are 12 steps to help you survive and thrive:

Originally published in 2020. Updated in October 2025 to reflect recent annuity sales trends and product developments.

As life expectancy increases and stock market volatility seems to grow, annuities are gaining in popularity as people seek safety for their money.  According to InvestmentNews, total U.S. annuity sales rose from about $219 billion in 2020 to $434 billion in 2024, and reached $223 billion in the first half of 2025.

We’re seeing structural drivers behind the surge: more capital is flowing into the annuity business via private equity; distributors are building new platforms; and consumers increasingly worry about guaranteed income sources beyond the market or Social Security.

It is essential to share some truths about annuities and explain the risks of these seemingly safe products, which are sold as “can’t miss” solutions. 

This article was originally published in February 2015 and has been updated in February 2026 to reflect current information.

Interest rates are one of those economic topics that show up constantly in headlines, but rarely get explained in plain language. When rates are low, it can feel like “good news” across the board. Cheaper borrowing. Easier financing. More activity.

But low interest rates have a tradeoff. They help some people and businesses while actually creating challenges for others.

Here’s what low interest rates really mean, and where the benefits and risks tend to show up.

This article was originally published in December 2014 and has been updated in February 2026 to reflect current information.

If you have children or grandchildren and have the soaring costs of college education on your mind, you might want to consider a 529 plan as part of an overall long-term savings strategy.

Why do I need to think about my collection in terms of wealth management?

Numerous studies, including one operated by BMO Private Bank, have suggested that 10% to 25% of a family’s net worth can be comprised of art, jewelry or collectibles. This can be the result of a passionate hobby that is enjoyed throughout the course of one’s life or the result of an inheritance. Given the demand for rare artifacts of legitimate value, the price of these items can be astoundingly high.