Looking to make the most of your finances before the new year? Senior Financial Planner Alex Menassa, MT, CPA, JD from Szarka Financial shares essential end-of-year financial tips to help you prepare for 2025.

In this video, you’ll discover:

✅ How to consolidate your cash accounts for better management

✅ Why maximizing your 401(k) match is critical (and how to do it)

✅ Simple investment strategies to keep your money working for you

✅ Tax-advantaged savings options to consider before December 31st

Whether you’re planning for short-term goals or long-term wealth building, these actionable insights will help you take control of your financial future.

📞 For more personalized advice, contact Szarka Financial at 440-779-1430 or send us a message

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Interview originally aired December 3, 2024.

The elections are over, but the financial impact is just beginning. Alex Menassa, MT, CPA, JD, senior financial advisor at Szarka Financial, breaks down how the market is responding to the new administration and what it means for your investments. 📈

Highlights include:

✅ Why the stock market thrives on certainty—and how it’s reacting post-election

✅ Key trends like tax cuts, deregulation, and energy production driving market optimism

✅ Potential challenges ahead: inflation, national debt, and tariff concerns

Don’t let uncertainty derail your financial goals. Alex shares actionable advice on controlling what you can, sticking to your plan, and reviewing your portfolio to navigate these shifting dynamics.

📞 For more information or to schedule a consultation: Call 440-779-1430 or send us a message.

Starting a New Job? Don’t Forget About Your 401(k)!

Starting a new job is an exciting milestone, filled with new opportunities and challenges. Amidst the hustle and bustle of settling into your new role, it’s easy to overlook an essential aspect of your financial future—your old 401(k). In our latest video, we sit down with Senior Financial Planner Alex Menassa from Szarka Financial to discuss why managing your 401(k) during a job transition is crucial and how to do it effectively.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

According to Alex, one of the most common mistakes people make when switching jobs is forgetting about their old 401(k) plan. With so much focus on new health benefits, tax withholdings, and other onboarding tasks, it’s easy for your old retirement plan to get lost in the shuffle. However, ignoring your 401(k) can lead to missed opportunities for growth and even financial penalties.

Why Cashing Out Is a Bad Idea

One tempting option is to cash out your old 401(k), viewing it as “found money.” But Alex warns against this. Cashing out not only subjects you to taxes and penalties if you’re under 59 and a half, but it also means losing the most valuable asset in wealth building—time. The longer your money stays invested, the more it can grow. 

Better Options for Your 401(k)

So, what should you do with your old 401(k)? Alex outlines three primary options:

1. Leave it with your old employer: Your 401(k) can remain invested, but it won’t be updated, and you might lose track of it over time.
2. Roll it over to your new employer’s 401(k): This can simplify your retirement savings by consolidating them into one account, but it might limit your investment options.
3. Transfer it to an IRA: This option gives you the most control over your investments and often provides more options than a 401(k).

Consult a Financial Planner

Rolling over your 401(k) into an IRA can be the best choice for many, but it’s essential to work with a financial planner to navigate the rules and make the most of your investments. Alex emphasizes that a financial planner can help you consolidate your assets, avoid probate, and ensure that your beneficiary designations are up-to-date.

For more personalized financial advice, contact Szarka Financial at 440-779-1430.

If you have any questions or need personalized financial advice, don’t hesitate to contact Szarka Financial.

The financial markets can often surprise us with their ups and downs. This year has been particularly intriguing, with the S&P 500 performing better than many expected. To help us understand these trends, we spoke with Alex Menassa, MT, CPA, JD, Senior Financial Planner at Szarka Financial.

Market Performance in 2024

Despite predictions of a downturn due to rising interest rates, the market has shown resilience. The S&P 500 has seen positive growth, defying expectations of a recession. This performance has been a pleasant surprise for many investors.

The Role of Major Tech Stocks

A significant factor in the market’s performance has been the dominance of major tech companies. Giants like Amazon, Apple, and Tesla have played a crucial role in driving the market. However, this concentration means it’s essential for investors to reassess their portfolios to ensure they remain balanced.

Diversification Strategies

Alex emphasizes the importance of diversification. While tech stocks have performed well, it’s wise to consider other sectors. Diversifying into dividend-paying stocks and value stocks can provide stability and reduce risk.

Investment Opportunities

Higher interest rates have opened up new investment opportunities, particularly in short-term bonds. These conservative investments offer attractive returns and are a safe place to park extra cash.

Final Thoughts

Staying informed and proactive is key to navigating the financial markets. Whether you’re adjusting your tech stock holdings or exploring new investment opportunities, a balanced approach can help you optimize your portfolio.

For more personalized financial advice, contact Szarka Financial at 440-779-1430.

If you have any questions or need personalized financial advice, don’t hesitate to contact Szarka Financial.

Tune in as Alex Manassa, MT, CPA, JD, esteemed Senior Financial Planner at Szarka Financial, joins Catherine Boyd and Joe Cronauer on “Good Company” to discuss the intricacies of financial planning in second marriages.

This episode offers a deep dive into the key financial strategies essential for couples entering a second marriage. Alex explains how to effectively manage assets, debts, and future planning with practical tips on estate planning and managing shared expenses.

Discover how to navigate the challenges of merging finances with a new partner and ensure your financial stability for the future. Originally aired May 7, 2024.