Validus Financial Associates PLLC

07/23/2026

"My favorite part of retirement is the schedule…which is no schedule!

The best trip I've taken in retirement in a 27 day road trip from Arizona to Florida and back. Many stops along the way to visit family, friends and see new sites.

One hobby I've picked up in retirement is Birding. I never realized how many we have and how interesting they can be."

- Brian R.

07/22/2026

🏡 Your retirement plan is about more than your portfolio, it’s also about where you live.

As extreme heat events become more common, retirees may need to think beyond finances when planning for the future. Factors like healthcare access, reliable infrastructure, transportation, and community support can play a major role in quality of life as we age.

The question is no longer just where you want to retire—it's whether your community can continue to support you over the next 20 or 30 years.

📖 Read the full article to learn why "place preparedness" is becoming an important part of retirement planning.

Student loans are following more Americans into what were supposed to be their retirement years.

07/20/2026

Staying engaged throughout the year creates space to make more informed decisions, rather than reacting under tight timelines. A proactive approach can help bring alignment across your financial strategy and uncover opportunities that might otherwise be missed.

If you’d like support navigating your year-end strategy, our team is here to help 👇

https://www.vfateam.com/

07/16/2026

"My first job was a classic car restoration at Koach Kraft. I was a helper and did most of the dirty work including sandblasting. I think I got paid about $2.50/hr.

My first car was a 1967 Camaro hardtop. I bought a junk body for $200 when I was 15 and got a hand-me-down engine from my brother-in-law who helped me rebuild it and put it in. I had it running by the time I got my license at 16."

- Brian R.

07/15/2026

Markets move every week. Are you keeping up?

Mid-year is a smart time to check in on your financial plan and make sure you’re still on track.

Catch up with our Weekly Market Commentary and take a moment to refocus for the months ahead → https://www.vfateam.com/weekly-market-commentary-kf26a

07/13/2026

Preparing for year-end starts well before December.👈

Taking time now to organize key areas like cash flow, savings, retirement contributions, investments, taxes, and insurance can help bring clarity to the decisions ahead. A structured approach allows you to move into year-end planning with greater intention and fewer last-minute surprises.

Read our blog Year-End Estate Planning Checklist: What to Review Before Q4 Begins to see what you can be preparing now ⬇️
https://www.vfateam.com/blog/year-end-estate-planning-checklist-what-to-review-before-q4-begins

07/08/2026

🔎 Over 50 and making catch-up contributions to your 401(k)? There’s an important rule change to know in 2026.

High earners who earned more than $150,000 in W-2 wages from their current employer may now be required to make catch-up contributions to a Roth 401(k) instead of a traditional pre-tax account. If those contributions are being directed incorrectly, it could lead to unexpected tax complications down the road.

The good news? A Roth account offers the potential for tax-free growth and withdrawals in retirement, which can help diversify your future tax strategy.

📖 Read the full article for details👇

If you are a high-earning employee over age 50 and planning to fund catch-up contributions in your 401(k), take a few minutes to make sure the money is going to the right place.

07/06/2026

Taking a step back to review your full financial picture is essential, especially as wealth becomes more complex.

Beyond investments, it is important to evaluate how your strategy supports tax efficiency, income planning, and long-term legacy goals. Ensuring each piece is aligned can help simplify decision-making and keep your plan moving forward with clarity and purpose.

Ready to take a closer look? Connect with our team to get started 👇
www.vfateam.com/contact

07/04/2026

Happy Independence Day!

As we mark the 250th anniversary of the Fourth of July, we’re reminded of the values that continue to shape opportunity, resilience, and progress. It is those same principles that guide a thoughtful, long-term approach to building what matters most.

Wishing you and your family a happy and safe Fourth of July ✨

07/03/2026

Markets will be closed on Thursday, July 3 in observance of Independence Day.

It is a moment to pause, reflect, and stay focused on the long-term strategies that support financial clarity and confidence through every season.

We will resume normal market activity following the holiday.