Alfred J. Valencia

01/01/2026

12/16/2025

The stock market has a long and storied history, from the Dutch East India Company to Wall St.

From the Dutch East India Company to Wall St., the stock market has a long and storied history.

09/16/2025

Having an estate strategy means that decisions about your family, assets, and your health care remain in your hands. Learn about 4 elements that may help you. Watch here:

This video covers 4 elements of an estate strategy.

08/07/2025

You might be building wealth without even realizing it. From consistent investing to living within your means, certain habits quietly add up to financial success over time.

Discover the key signs that show you’re on the right path 🎯

From reduced financial stress to smart investing, here’s how to spot the subtle signs that your wealth is growing.

08/05/2025

Protect your small business from grant scammers 🛡️ This guide highlights common red flags—like upfront fees or pressure tactics—and provides practical tips to verify legitimacy before applying.

Legitimate small business grants do exist, but unfortunately, so do fake grants aimed at stealing your information and money.

08/03/2025

LLC vs. Sole Proprietorship: Which suits your small business best? 🤔

This helpful guide covers the key differences between LLCs and sole proprietorships—liability, taxes, setup costs—and helps you decide which structure aligns with your growth goals.

Here's how to decide between these two common business structures.

08/01/2025

Record numbers are filing for Social Security early—but is it wise?

A 17% surge so far this year reflects growing concern over staffing cuts and potential benefit reductions. While claiming at 62 offers quick access, it also means a lifetime reduction in monthly benefits. Experts still advise weighing long-term income against current fears.

Spike in early Social Security claims this year points to growing concerns about the health of the Social Security system, experts say.

07/30/2025

Who’s curious what their home is worth? 🏠

This quick guide explains different valuation methods—from AVMs to appraisals—and why online estimates are a great starting point but not the final word. Learn how to get the most accurate picture of your property’s value.

The "black magic" of how a home’s value is determined will help you know if you’re selling, or making an offer, at the right price.

07/28/2025

What’s the best money advice your dad ever gave you? 💡

This quick read from Bankrate highlights timeless lessons (and a few outdated ones) from three dads on managing money, debt, and credit.

Our stories reveal how money wisdom — especially around borrowing — can offer both guidance and guilt, protection and pressure.

07/26/2025

Paying for college has never been more complex — or more important to plan for.

From rising tuition to evolving financial aid strategies, families today face big decisions when it comes to funding higher education. Whether you're a parent, grandparent, or financial professional, understanding the current landscape is key to creating a smart, sustainable plan.

🔗: https://edition.cnn.com/2025/05/18/business/paying-for-college

07/24/2025

What exactly is the bond market — and why should investors care?

While stocks often steal the spotlight, bonds play a vital role in building a diversified, long-term portfolio. Whether you're a seasoned investor or just getting started, understanding how the bond market works can help you make more informed decisions.

This helpful breakdown from Investopedia covers the basics 👇

Learn the basic lingo of bonds so you can unveil familiar market dynamics and open the door to becoming a competent bond investor.

07/22/2025

Can you take a life insurance policy out on anyone? Not quite — but here’s who qualifies.

Understanding insurable interest is key when it comes to life insurance strategy. Whether you're planning for your family, a business, or legacy goals, knowing who you can legally insure (and why) matters ⬇️

Bankrate explains when you can take a life insurance policy out on someone else.