Bengtson Wealth Management Ameriprise Financial Services

03/28/2024

Woo Hoo Lisa Ebert-Bengtson, so well deserved!!

Today's WOW Woman of Arvada is Lisa Bengtson, owner of
BlendWorks Digital Marketing!

View the running list of 2024 WOW Women of Arvada at www.arvadachamber.org/WOWwomen

02/07/2024

2 boys zonked out on our way home from skiing - a sign of a successful day on the slopes! They actually both had a nap before we even hit the parking lot on the way up so you can imagine how deep they slept on the way home
The boys are embarking on a new winter adventure this year as they learn to ski! This tradition holds a special place shared between my parents, my brothers, and me. As the snow keeps on falling in the mountains, I have a feeling we’ll be finding ourselves out here much more often!
Parents of kids who are learning to ski: Drop your favorite slopes and ski day traditions in the comments!

02/05/2024

Setting health and wellness goals as a married couple is a journey that takes discipline. Some days call for the strength of personal determination, while others are about being there for each other. Our health goals, much like our financial endeavors, reflect the essence of progress over perfection.
Embracing the journey means acknowledging that each step forward, no matter how small, contributes to overall well-being. Whether it's making mindful choices in our meals or managing our finances wisely, the shared commitment to progress not only enhances our health but also strengthens the foundation for a fulfilling life together!

02/02/2024

Navigating the realm of CPA's, especially for a high-level business owner seeking a CFO or through a Mom and Pop referral, raises crucial considerations. Personally, I've found value in having my own CPA – understanding investments is one thing, but having someone adept at tax intricacies is vital.
If you're on the lookout for an outstanding CPA to not only streamline your finances but also align with your needs, it's about finding that perfect fit. Just as you found me, the process involves a personality match, trust, and shared interests. These decisions are personal, and seeking referrals adds that extra layer of assurance.
If you have any questions or thoughts on the matter, feel free to reach out!

01/31/2024

As January ends and February rolls around, gearing up for tax season might seem like a daunting task for some. If you're someone who finds the thought of tackling taxes overwhelming, here are some tips to make the process more manageable:
• Organize Your Documents: Gather all necessary documents, such as W-2s, 1099s, and receipts. Having everything in one place will simplify the process.
• Take Advantage of Technology: Explore tax preparation software or apps that can simplify the process. Many tools guide you through each step, making it more user-friendly.
• Review Deductions and Credits: Familiarize yourself with potential deductions and credits. This knowledge can help maximize your tax savings.
• Consider Professional Help: If the idea of handling your taxes independently is daunting, consider seeking assistance from a tax professional. They can guide you through the process and ensure accuracy.
Remember, getting prepared for tax season doesn't have to be an overwhelming task. With a systematic approach and these tips, you can make the process more manageable and set yourself up for a smoother tax season!

01/29/2024

As our boys grow and pursue their interests, Lisa and I have encouraged them to explore various sports and other activities. Just like the diversity of sports and other options – hockey, drums, basketball, indoor soccer, and even indoor ski lessons – financial choices can be approached in a similar way. Instead of limiting ourselves to one path, why not explore various opportunities?
Just as kids can discover their passion on the field, we too can navigate our financial landscape, exploring different avenues for growth and success. It's all about embracing the variety and making choices that align with our interests and goals!

01/26/2024

Navigating the financial landscape for success in 2024 can feel overwhelming, but I'm here to guide you. If you're looking to set yourself up for personal and professional well-being this year, consider focusing on these key pillars!
1. Connect with a Financial Advisor to navigate your money matters. (I know a guy)
2. Engage an Estate Planner to secure your legacy and plan for the future.
3. Collaborate with a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) to ensure your financial strategy aligns with your goals and stays tax-efficient.
4. Evaluate your insurance needs—home, car, and health—to protect what matters most.
5. Lastly, prioritize your health by considering wellness routines and check-ups.

If you're seeking referrals for any of these services, feel free to send me a message. Over the years I’ve collected a valuable toolkit of the best names in the biz!
Let's make 2024 a year of financial empowerment and well-being.

01/24/2024

Embrace the spirit of 'advancement' in 2024! If one of your resolutions is to enhance your financial well-being, it all starts with that crucial first step – scheduling an appointment.

Don't wait; mark it on your calendar today. Taking action is the key to achieving your financial goals. It's a straightforward process that sets you on the path to success, without unnecessary risks.

Engaging with a financial advisor might seem daunting, but it's merely a step towards gathering essential information for your financial journey. Don't let intimidation hold you back – contact me to schedule an appointment, take that initial step with confidence, and propel yourself forward!

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01/22/2024

In 2024, a simple financial tip: set achievable goals. Lisa and I used a spreadsheet to outline our financial objectives for 2024 – planned payments, home projects, savings targets, and even the hope for a Hawaiian anniversary trip!
Starting doesn't require much; it's about clear goals and consistent efforts. If you need some help getting started, contact me today!

01/19/2024

As we step into January, where predictions about the market's future are abound, it's worth noting an interesting trend. This year, optimism is on the rise for the first quarter of the upcoming year!
However with the looming election year in 2024, the market has traditionally shown signs of volatility as we get closer to November. This is a pattern we see every four years as uncertainties often lead to fluctuations. But here's a nugget of wisdom you can write down: “Stay steady and take a long-term approach.”
The fact is that attempting to predict every twist and turn may lead to missed opportunities. I want to emphasize the importance of not getting swayed by short-term market movements. If you find yourself contemplating knee-jerk reactions, it might be time to reassess your investment strategy.
So what is the approach I always take with my clients? Structure portfolios that don't require constant adjustments. Aim for a steady course that withstands market fluctuations. Because, as we all know, it's not about timing the market; it's about time in the market!

01/17/2024

So, as a financial advisor, I spend a lot of my time watching the news and getting caught up on the latest changes in the world. After all, the global economy is a big and complicated place, and everything that happens affects how we live in a small or big way! So, now that we are finished with 2023, here are my most notable events from the past year!
1. Global Economic Recovery: A lot of countries continued to focus on economic recovery from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, the United States included! Each country had a varying degree of success, but all in all, we are continuing to rebound.
2. Inflation Concerns: Inflation continued as a notable concern, as you probably know, leading to central banks closely monitoring and adjusting monetary policies. Now is a good time to get into some high-interest savings accounts!
3. Technology Sector Growth: The technology sector continued to play a crucial role in the economy, with advancements in areas such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and digital transformation. Overall, exciting progress is being made that will have a good impact on our economy.
If you are an economy-nerd like me, let me know in the comments below your highlights from 2023!

01/13/2024

Word of the Year: ADVANCEMENT
I’m embracing a new tradition this year alongside Lisa. Instead of resolutions, challenges, or vision boards, we're diving into the power of a single word!
My word for 2024 is “advancement”. It's all about constant growth, small steps forward, improvement, and consistency. From personal goals to professional endeavors, every step counts towards a year of positive change and progress for my wife and our kids.

What's your word of the year? Share it below in the comments, I’d love to know!