Michael Hendrickson Financial Advisor at Tompkins Financial Advisors

02/24/2026

Everybody has a plan (do they really, though?). Until they get hit. When your life changes, you need to make financial changes, or better yet, be proactive!

Divorce. Job loss. Inheritance. Are you ready?

02/23/2026

The latest January jobs report offered a mixed snapshot of the labor market, highlighting areas of resilience alongside signs of cooling.

Among the key developments:
▪️Job growth continued, though at a slower pace than in previous months.
▪️The unemployment rate shifted, reflecting changes in workforce participation.
▪️Wage gains showed moderation compared to recent peaks.
▪️Revisions to prior months adjusted the broader hiring picture.
▪️Certain sectors showed stronger momentum than others.

Employment data can influence consumer sentiment, policy discussions, and expectations around interest rates. Staying aware of these shifts may help provide useful context in conversations about the broader economy.


Source:

The January nonfarm payrolls report beat Wall Street expectations in both job creation and the unemployment rate.

02/20/2026

New Medicaid work requirements are expected to affect millions of Americans in the coming years, particularly adults between ages 50 and 64.

Beginning in 2027, individuals in 42 states and Washington, D.C., may need to complete at least 80 hours per month of qualifying activities — such as employment, volunteering, or schooling — in order to maintain coverage.

The Congressional Budget Office estimates that at least 5 million people could lose Medicaid coverage over the next decade as a result of the changes. Researchers note that many in this age group serve as caregivers or face health challenges that may limit traditional employment, which could make compliance more complex.

For households approaching Medicare eligibility, shifts in coverage requirements may have broader implications for healthcare access and financial stability.


Source:

Republicans have said new Medicaid work rules are aimed at unemployed young people who should have jobs. Policy researchers say the rules are more likely to disrupt coverage for middle-aged adults.

02/19/2026

Do you have your eyes focused on the next big move for your business? Transitioning out of the day-to-day? Expanding into a new market? Acquiring a competitor? Starting to think about an exit? With any of these big moves, you need 3 things to make it happen, and I believe the last one is the most important (this short read goes into more detail). First is the obvious one: proper planning. Then comes a sound strategy.

A pit crew helps stay ahead of the competition and win the race. Read more here!

02/19/2026

Gold prices moved higher as market participants weighed the possibility of additional Federal Reserve rate cuts later this year.

While traders have generally priced in two reductions, some investors believe the central bank could ease policy more than currently anticipated. Expectations around monetary policy often influence movements in interest-rate-sensitive assets, including precious metals.

Gold—commonly viewed as a hedge during periods of inflation or currency uncertainty—has posted significant gains over the past two years. Shifts in rate expectations, central bank independence debates, and global trade developments have all contributed to recent volatility in the metal.

As always, market pricing reflects evolving data, policy direction, and investor sentiment.


Source:

Greenlight Capital's David Einhorn anticipates the Federal Reserve will issue more interest rate cuts than what's being anticipated.

02/13/2026

When the One Big Beautiful Bill (OBBB) Act was passed on July 4, the legislation left several unanswered questions that the IRS is now addressing. The IRS undergoes this process every year, but this time around, the OBBB has added to the uncertainty. Here’s what the 2026 Federal income tax brackets will look like.

02/13/2026

Many are unaware of the significant impact that seemingly minor choices, such as deciding when to claim benefits or determining how long to continue working, can have on their future independence. This is why retirees reflect on their past and think, ”I wish I had approached that differently.”

See the moves to make now.

02/12/2026

Do you have your eyes focused on the next big move for your business? Transitioning out of the day-to-day? Expanding into a new market? Acquiring a competitor? Starting to think about an exit? With any of these big moves, you need 3 things to make it happen, and I believe the last one is the most important (this short read goes into more detail). First is the obvious one: proper planning. Then comes a sound strategy. Click below to download your copy even if you don’t have the time to start reading right now. That way you can read it during some evening downtime or on your next flight. When you’re done reading, “reply” to this and tell me the #1 challenge standing between you and your next big move. I look forward to hearing about where you and your business are headed.

Use these 3 high-octane drivers to help fuel the next big move. Read instantly here.

02/11/2026

Warren Buffett stepped down as CEO on January 1, 2026, but we can only hope he shares more words of wisdom.

02/06/2026

When is it time to speak to or hire a financial advisor? Why would you need an advisor ? This short video can help you understand.

Do you really need to hire a financial advisor?

02/06/2026

A few intentional plays now can help protect your freedom, reduce stress, and create more space for the life you want. You don't have to tackle everything at once. Start with one decision. Build momentum from there. Your next move matters. Make it count

Get proactive with the Anti-Regret Playbook.

02/05/2026

Do you have your eyes focused on the next big move for your business? Transitioning out of the day-to-day? Expanding into a new market? Acquiring a competitor? Starting to think about an exit? With any of these big moves, you need 3 things to make it happen, and I believe the last one is the most important (this short read goes into more detail). First is the obvious one: proper planning. Then comes a sound strategy. Once those foundations are in place, you need “fuel” to power the move. “Fuel,” just like gas for your car, comes in different octane levels. So what is the “fuel” for your business? Your financials. The interwoven and complex matrix of cash flow, debt, credit, “war chest” funds, and more. How you dial in this unique blend will determine the octane level of your business “fuel.” To help you get started, I’m passing along this reading recommendation as a free gift. The 3 financial drivers inside will prepare you to: Get race-ready, establish your target, and aggregate your assets Take on a new market, acquire a competitor, transition out of the day-to-day, or prepare to exit Balance cash flow, income, and tax liabilities Click below to download your copy even if you don’t have the time to start reading right now. That way you can read it during some evening downtime or on your next flight. When you’re done reading, “reply” to this email and tell me the #1 challenge standing between you and your next big move. I look forward to hearing about where you and your business are headed.

3 drivers for the next big business move. Get instant access to this FREE checklist...