Posts by Petersen Hastings Team
What Is a Fiduciary Financial Advisor? Everything You Need to Know
Most people assume every financial advisor is required to put their clients first. Surprisingly, that’s not always the case. Some financial advisors are legally required to act in your best interests. Others are only required to recommend investments or strategies that are considered suitable for your financial situation. While that distinction may seem subtle, it…
Read MoreFee-Only Advisors: What You Need to Know
Choosing a financial advisor goes beyond investment returns. Finding someone you trust who delivers the support you need and understanding of where you’re truly invested in life is paramount when selecting an advisor. For those who’ve done their research, one question that often comes up is whether working with a fee-only financial advisor is right for them. At Petersen Hastings, we believe clarity matters. Clients deserve to understand how…
Read MoreHow to Find the Best Financial Advisor for You
Choosing a financial advisor can shape your retirement income, tax decisions, investment discipline, and peace of mind for years to come. The right advisor brings experience, a clear planning process, and guidance that fits the life you’re building—not just the portfolio being managed. Many people begin the search by focusing on performance or credentials. Those matter, but so do…
Read MoreMarket Commentary Q1 2026
After a strong finish to 2025, the first quarter of 2026 brought a different kind of “March Madness” to the markets. While NCAA college basketball brackets were being busted on the court, investors were navigating a wave of volatility driven by geopolitical tensions, shifting interest rate expectations, and a changing economic backdrop. The quarter began…
Read MoreTrump Accounts for Kids: What Parents Need to Know
Saving for a child’s future is about to get a new option. Starting July 5, 2026, Trump Accounts will join other ways to save for children like 529 plans, UGMA/UTMA accounts, and custodial Roth IRAs. But they come with unique rules and benefits. If you’re wondering what Trump Accounts are, who qualifies, and how they…
Read MoreMarket Commentary Q4 2025
As the calendar turns on another year, the fourth quarter of 2025 offered a fitting conclusion to a market cycle shaped by patience and progress. While headlines shifted throughout the year, long-term investors were rewarded for staying the course. As we review the fourth quarter and reflect on the year behind us, the markets once…
Read MoreMarket Commentary Q3 2025
As summer came to a close, investors were reminded once again that patience pays off. What began as a cautious quarter, ended with markets breaking new records and renewed confidence in the economy’s strength. The S&P 500 closed above 6,600 for the first time, gaining over 5% during the quarter and pushing year-to-date returns into…
Read MoreMarket Commentary Q2 2025
The second quarter of 2025 brought a mix of challenges and opportunities for investors. Global markets navigated significant volatility, driven by U.S. trade policy shifts, geopolitical tensions, and evolving economic signals. Despite a sharp selloff in April due to new tariff announcements, markets rebounded strongly, with most major indices posting positive returns by quarter-end. This…
Read MoreNew Job? Don’t Forget About Your 401(k)
Starting a new job is a big milestone – one that comes with excitement, and at times, a bit of stress. With so much on your plate, it’s easy to overlook the financial details that come with a career change. However, taking time to review your retirement savings is an important step to ensure your…
Read MoreMarket Commentary: Q1 2025
The first quarter of 2025 started strong for U.S. stocks but ended with a decline, underperforming global markets. Investors faced uncertainty around economic conditions, competition in the AI sector, and potential tariff impacts under the new presidential administration. While the S&P 500 hit record highs early in the quarter, it was down for the year…
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