It's being reported that the US trade deficit has shrunk by 56%—but what does it mean for you?
April saw the US trade deficit fall from $138.3 billion to $61.6 billion—a record 56% drop in just one month. Imports plunged 16%, partly because companies rushed to bring in goods earlier this year ahead of new tariffs, and exports ticked up slightly.
On the surface, a shrinking deficit can boost GDP this quarter. But it’s not all good news: tariffs and shifting trade policy are disrupting global supply chains and may push prices higher for everyday goods.
Here’s what I’m telling clients:
- Big headlines rarely tell the whole story.
- Trade numbers can swing sharply from policy changes, but your long-term plan shouldn’t.
- Stay focused on what you can control—spending, saving, and how your portfolio is positioned for both growth and resilience.
In times of big economic shifts, steady hands build lasting wealth.
Last year, we worked with a new client and what truly stood out was her passion for boxer dogs and her dedication to volunteering with a local boxer rescue.
That detail stuck with us. Before we wrapped up, she mentioned an annual fundraiser she was organizing and asked if we could help her apply for an action team. We made a note to follow up—and a few months later, we hopped on Zoom to walk her through the process. Simple, supportive, and exactly what she needed.
Fast forward to last week: we received a photo and a heartfelt message from her, sharing how her team came together for the fundraiser and thanking us for our support. It was a small gesture on our part, but it meant a lot to her—and it reminded us why we do what we do.
Working with us is about more than numbers. Sometimes, the most meaningful part of our work is showing up for what matters most to our clients—whether that’s navigating a major life transition or championing a cause close to their heart.
We’re grateful to be part of stories like these and honored by the trust our clients place in us, even in the small moments.
You can learn more and help support Carolina Boxer Rescue by visiting their website: https://carolinaboxerrescue.org/ . . .
My Team: thrivent.com/ascend
Disclosures: thrivent.com/social
📍#boxerpalooza | #carolinaboxerrescue | #myrtlebeach 📍#thrivent | #thriventactionteams | #generosity
Welcome! You are invited to join a webinar: Will Your Taxes Affect Your Retirement?. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email about joining the webinar.
🔍 Will Your Taxes Follow You Into Retirement? 💼 You’re ready to leave behind the daily grind, commutes, and maybe even your current home when you retire. But one thing you can’t leave behind? Your tax bill. Join us for a live webinar where we’ll break down: ✅ How different investments are taxed in retirement ✅ Strategies to potentially lower your tax bracket ✅ Key decisions to help keep more of your hard-earned money Choose a session that fits your schedule: 🗓️ March 26, 2025 | 12:00 PM (PT) 🗓️ March 27, 2025 | 5:30 PM (PT) 💡 Why attend? - No sales pitch—just actionable insights. - Learn how to align your retirement plan with tax-smart strategies. - Q&A time to address your specific concerns. 🔗 Reserve your spot today! https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/9017406111199/WN_6aUuOz5HReKioYAIrecdgw#/registration Let’s build a retirement plan that works as hard as you did. Important Disclosures: No products will be sold. Thrivent financial advisors/professionals have general knowledge of Social Security tenets. For details on your situation, contact the Social Security Administration. Thrivent does not provide legal, accounting, or tax advice. Consult your attorney/tax professional. Full disclosures: thrivent.com/social. #RetirementPlanning #TaxStrategies #FinancialFreedom #SmartInvesting (Investment advisory services offered through Thrivent. 27878-15M R11-20)
Attention Charleston: Your Retirement Strategy Can’t Wait⏳
🎥Golden Strategies Watch Party
March 5 | 2:30-4:30 PM PST | Fairfield Inn & Suites, North Charleston
Join us for an in-person, complimentary watch party of Thrivent’s Golden Strategies Workshop, featuring Eric W. Bilger, FIC (Thrivent Advisor) breaking down:
→ Income management in volatile markets
→ Estate planning blind spots
→ Tax strategies to keep your money growing
What to expect:
✔️ No sales pitch – just actionable tools
✔️ Live Q&A with advisors (bring your questions!)
✔️ Light bites + refreshments
This in-person workshop is designed for anyone who will be retiring soon, has recently retired, or is well into their retirement (it's never too late to optimize!)
To secure your spot 📩 jeffrey.malott@thrivent.com
Or message me directly
Not local? Register for the webinar here: bit.ly/golden190
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No products sold. Not legal/tax advice. See thrivent.com/social. 27764-12FB R2-24
Feeling nervous about the markets?
Here are three actionable steps to stay ahead👇
1️⃣ Turn Losses Into Tax Savings:
Use tax-loss harvesting to sell underperforming assets and offset gains.
Avoid the “wash sale” rule by waiting 30 days before repurchasing similar assets.
2️⃣ Rebalance Your Portfolio:
Rising interest rates mean stocks and bonds may be out of sync with your goals.
Reallocate to maintain your target risk level and take advantage of market dips.
3️⃣ Build a Liquidity Cushion:
Keep 6–12 months of expenses in cash or cash equivalents.
This prevents you from selling investments at a loss during downturns.
Volatility creates opportunity—if you have a plan.
Need help navigating the ups and downs? Let’s talk!
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My Team: thrivent.com/ascend
Disclosures: thrivent.com/social
❌ 'I’ll just wait until retirement to figure out my taxes.'
This approach can cost you big time.
Here’s why proactive tax planning is crucial:
→ Retirement accounts like 401(k)s and IRAs are tax-deferred, not tax-free. Every dollar withdrawn is taxable income.
→ Tax rates today may be lower than they will be in the future. Waiting could mean paying more later.
→ Strategies like Roth Conversions or charitable giving require time to implement effectively.
The earlier you start planning, the more options you have to manage your tax bill in retirement.
Are you thinking ahead about how taxes will impact your retirement income?
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My team: thrivent.com/ascend
Disclosures: Thrivent.com/social
"Should I take a lump sum pension payout or monthly payments?"
A client asked this in a recent meeting.
Here’s how we helped:
→ Flexibility vs. Stability: A lump sum offered investment control, while monthly payments provided guaranteed income—subject to the pension provider’s financial health.
→ Longevity Risk: With a family history of long lifespans, monthly payments ensured income no matter how long they lived, though we also considered inflation's impact on purchasing power.
→ Tax Implications: We planned a tax-efficient strategy for rolling over the lump sum into an IRA to avoid immediate taxation.
When deciding, consider:
- Your need for steady income vs. investment control.
- Longevity and health factors.
- Tax strategies to maximize your benefits.
Every situation is unique—let’s talk about what’s right for you.
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My Team: thrivent.com/ascend
Disclosures: thrivent.com/social
Is your retirement plan inflation-proof?
With prices still climbing faster than we'd like, your retirement savings might not stretch as far as you thought.
Here's a quick reality check:
➡️ The "4% rule" might not cut it anymore
Traditional wisdom says you can withdraw 4% annually
But with inflation around 3%, that math gets shaky
➡️ Healthcare costs are outpacing inflation
Medical expenses are rising at 2x the general inflation rate
Have you factored this into your retirement budget?
➡️ Social Security isn't keeping pace
2024's COLA was 3.2%, but many retirees say it's not enough
Are you relying too heavily on these benefits?
Reminder: Revisit your retirement plan annually. What worked last year might not work today.
Worried your nest egg might crack under inflation pressure? Let's review your strategy and explore ways to fortify your financial future.
My Team: thrivent.com/ascend
Disclosures: thrivent.com/social
You HAVE to combine finances when you get married!"
Really? Says who? 🤔
After working with hundreds of couples, here's what I know:
The "perfect" way to manage money in marriage doesn't exist.
What I see working:
→ Fully Combined: One pot, shared decisions
(Often great for couples building wealth together from the start)
→ Fully Separate: My money, your money
(Can work beautifully, especially for those merging lives later)
→ Hybrid Approach: Shared bills, separate spending
(The "best of both worlds" for many couples)
Here's the truth: The method matters less than the mindset.
What counts is open communication and shared financial goals.
Getting married or need help finding your financial rhythm as a couple? Let's talk about what could work best for YOU.
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My Team: thrivent.com/ascend
Disclosures: thrivent.com/social
🗣️ 'I don’t need life insurance—I already have savings.'
This is a common mindset I hear, and while savings are important, they serve a different purpose.
Here’s the reality:
→ Savings can run out. Life insurance provides a guaranteed death benefit to protect your loved ones.
→ Savings grow slowly. Life insurance can offer tax-advantaged growth and liquidity options.
→ Savings are for living. Life insurance is for legacy.
It’s not about choosing one over the other—it’s about creating a balanced strategy that protects your family and builds generational wealth.
Have you considered how life insurance fits into your financial plan?
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My Team: thrivent.com/ascend
Disclosures: Thrivent.com/social
"How can I protect my estate before the 2026 tax exemption drop?"
The clock is ticking on a major tax change. Here's what you need to know
Estate tax exemption could drop by ~50% in 2026
From $13.61M to ~$7M per person
That's a potential 40% tax hit on the difference
Smart moves to consider now:
➡️Lifetime gifting to lock in today's higher exemption
➡️Maximizing annual tax-free gifts ($18k per recipient in 2024)
➡️Exploring trusts to protect assets and reduce tax exposure
Don't wait. Planning takes time and current market conditions may offer unique opportunities
Remember: This isn't just for the ultra-wealthy. If you own a business, real estate, or have significant savings, you could be affected.
Want to stress-test your estate plan? Let's talk.
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My Team: thrivent.com/ascend
Disclosures: thrivent.com/social
This is general information, not personalized advice. Consult tax and legal professionals for your specific situation.
💭 Ever wonder why you keep making the same money mistakes?
The answer might be hiding in your "money script" – the unconscious beliefs about finances we inherit from childhood.
Common money scripts:
"Money is the root of all evil"
Result: Avoiding wealth-building opportunities
"I don't deserve financial success"
Result: Self-sabotage when close to goals
"There will never be enough"
Result: Constant anxiety, even with ample savings
Uncovering your script 🔍:
💭What's your earliest money memory?
💭How did your family talk about wealth?
💭What financial "rules" do you never break?
Recognizing your script is the first step to rewriting it.
Ready to author a new money story? Message or comment: 'Let's uncover my money script!'
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My Team: thrivent.com/ascend
Disclosures: thrivent.com/social
A client told me recently: "I'll do Roth conversions when everything is perfect."
When I asked him what "perfect" looks like to him he said:
→ When the market is up
→ When taxes are lower
→ When he has extra cash
→ When he's totally sure about future tax rates
In other words... never.
Here's what most people miss about Roth conversions: They're not about perfect timing. They're about progress over perfection.
Think of it like exercise. The best program isn't the "perfect" one - it's the one you'll actually do.
Want to stop waiting for perfect and start making progress? Let's build a realistic Roth strategy for you.
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My Team: thrivent.com/ascend
Disclosures: thrivent.com/social
'I feel safer keeping everything in cash right now...' 💰
Let's math-check that safety in 2025: $100K cash vs 2.9% inflation (Dec 2024 CPI):
→ Year 1: Loses $2,900 in purchasing power
→ 5 Years: Loses $14,300
→ 10 Years: Loses $27,600
The twist:
High-yield savings (4.75% APY): Beats inflation
Money markets (4.25%): Barely keeps up
Cash at home: Guaranteed 2.9% annual loss
The real risks:
Inertia: 11% of savers earn zero interest
Missed gains: $100K at 4.75% APY = +$4,750/year
Smart investors consider:
➡️Balancing safety and growth
➡️Leveraging diverse cash management tools
➡️Aligning strategy with personal financial goals
Don't let fear cost you. A tailored plan can help navigate uncertainty. 🧠
My Team: thrivent.com/ascend
Disclosures: thrivent.com/social
Turn $70K Into Tax-Free Growth? Here’s How.
Imagine you’re building a house.
A traditional Roth IRA is like a small toolbox—useful, but limited.
A Mega Backdoor Roth IRA? That’s a fully stocked workshop, letting you build something much bigger.
In 2025, you can contribute: - Up to $70,000 (or $77,500 if you're 50+) - Up to $81,250 if you’re 60–63
That’s 10X more than the standard Roth IRA limit of $7,000.
Think of your 401(k) like a bucket:
Step 1: Fill it with pre-tax contributions (max: $23,000).
Step 2: Your employer pours in their match (if applicable).
Step 3: The remaining space? That’s where the Mega Backdoor Roth comes in.
You fill the rest with after-tax dollars and convert to a Roth IRA for tax-free growth.
Why this is a game-changer: It supercharges tax-free retirement savings, allowing high earners to bypass standard Roth IRA limits and maximize every dollar their plan allows.
Not sure if your 401(k) plan allows it? Reach out.
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My Team: thrivent.com/ascend
Disclosures: thrivent.com/social
There may be benefits to leaving your account in your employer plan, if allowed. You will continue to benefit from tax deferral, there may be investment options unique to your plan, fees and expenses may be lower, plan assets have unlimited protection from creditors under Federal law, there is a possibility for loans, and distributions are penalty free if you terminate service at age 55+. Consult your tax professional prior to requesting a rollover from your employer plan.
"Should I refinance my mortgage now that rates are dropping?"
Rates have recently dropped to the mid-6% range, but future trends remain uncertain.
Here's how to decide if refinancing makes sense for you:
1. Calculate your break-even point:
- Closing costs ÷ monthly savings = months to break even
If you'll stay in your home beyond this point, refinancing could pay off
2. Consider your loan type
- ARMs might reset lower, but fixed rates offer stability.
What fits your risk tolerance and time horizon?
3. Check your equity position
- 20%+ equity? You might avoid PMI and snag better rates
- Home values vary by region - know your local market
4. Think about financial flexibility
Lower payments free up cash flow, but extending your term means more total interest paid.
Keep in mind: While 3-4 Fed rate cuts are expected this year, experts predict gradual declines rather than steep drops. Most forecasts see 30-year rates settling around 6.0%–6.35% by year-end.
Pro tip: Always compare offers from multiple lenders. Rate spreads between lenders can save you thousands over the life of your loan.
My Team: thrivent.com/ascend
Disclosures: thrivent.com/social
💬 “How do I enjoy retirement without fearing I’ll run out of money?”
This #1 client concern reveals a universal truth: Retirement isn’t just about saving—it’s about designing a life that excites you and protects your nest egg.
3 pillars of purposeful retirement planning:
1. Longevity math - Stress-test your plan for 95+ years (1 in 3 65-year-olds will live past 90) - Pair annuities with growth investments for “guaranteed” income + upside
2. Second-act budgeting
Map expenses to priorities:
| Travel 🌍 | $X/year |
| Part-time passion project 🎨 | $X/month |
| Grandkids’ experiences 👧👦 | $X quarterly |
3. Social Security strategy - Delaying to 70 boosts benefits 8%/year (Example: $2,000 → $2,560/month) - Coordinate spousal claims to optimize lifetime payouts
🔑 Key question: What 3 experiences would make retirement feel “worth it” for you?
My Team: thrivent.com/ascend
Disclosures: thrivent.com/social
Guarantees based on the financial strength and claims paying ability of Thrivent."
Turn $70K Into Tax-Free Growth? Here’s How.
Imagine you’re building a house.
A traditional Roth IRA is like a small toolbox—useful, but limited.
A Mega Backdoor Roth IRA? That’s a fully stocked workshop, letting you build something much bigger.
In 2025, you can contribute: - Up to $70,000 (or $77,500 if you're 50+) - Up to $81,250 if you’re 60–63
That’s 10X more than the standard Roth IRA limit of $7,000.
Think of your 401(k) like a bucket:
Step 1: Fill it with pre-tax contributions (max: $23,000).
Step 2: Your employer pours in their match (if applicable).
Step 3: The remaining space? That’s where the Mega Backdoor Roth comes in.
You fill the rest with after-tax dollars and convert to a Roth IRA for tax-free growth.
Why this is a game-changer: It supercharges tax-free retirement savings, allowing high earners to bypass standard Roth IRA limits and maximize every dollar their plan allows.
Not sure if your 401(k) plan allows it? Reach out.
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My Team: thrivent.com/ascend
Disclosures: thrivent.com/social
There may be benefits to leaving your account in your employer plan, if allowed. You will continue to benefit from tax deferral, there may be investment options unique to your plan, fees and expenses may be lower, plan assets have unlimited protection from creditors under Federal law, there is a possibility for loans, and distributions are penalty free if you terminate service at age 55+. Consult your tax professional prior to requesting a rollover from your employer plan.
'Tariffs are back!' 🚨
Just saw headlines about the new 25% Mexico/Canada tariffs.
Time for a reality check:
→ Markets dipped 1.5% Friday, recovered half by Monday
→ 60% of sharp drops bounce back within 2 weeks
→ Long-term investors who stayed calm in 2008 fully recovered by 2013
Perspective matters, especially now.
What smart investors focus on:
- Your investment timeline
- Diversification strategy
- Personal financial goals
Remember: Headlines create noise. Your strategy builds wealth.
Worried about tariffs impacting your portfolio? Let's talk. I'm here to help you navigate market volatility with a clear, long-term plan.
What's your go-to move when markets get choppy? Share below! 👇
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My Team: thrivent.com/ascend
Disclosures: thrivent.com/social
Sources: Hartford Funds. "Top 10 Stock Market Drops & Recoveries." 2023.
Covenant Wealth Advisors. "Understanding Stock Market Corrections and Crashes." 25 Dec. 2024.
Nasdaq. "A Short History of the Great Recession." 22 Feb. 2023.
Federal Reserve History. "The Great Recession." 1 Sept. 2021.
'But the other advisor said...' 🚩
Recently met with a young couple. Previous advice? Put thousands monthly into permanent life insurance because 'Roth IRAs are locked up until 59.5'
Let that sink in.
This is why our profession needs more education-first advisors. The basics matter:
→ Roth IRA contributions ARE accessible before 59.5
→ Spousal IRAs exist for a reason
→ Term life insurance often better serves young families
The hard truth: Every client who gets misguided advice makes our entire profession look bad.
But here's the opportunity: When we lead with education and transparency, we don't just help one family. We elevate the entire industry.
What's the most common misconception you're helping clients unlearn? Share below and let's raise the bar together 📈
My Team: thrivent.com/ascend
Disclosures: thrivent.com/social