Justine D. Hughes, CFP, Chfc, CPFA

07/20/2026

What's driving the recent market volatility? In this week's , CIO Gene Goldman discusses the factors behind recent market weakness and explains why pullbacks can remain opportunities for long-term investors.

“Cetera Financial Group” refers to the network of independent retail firms encompassing, among others, Cetera Advisors LLC, Cetera Advisor Networks LLC, Cetera Investment Services LLC (marketed as Cetera Financial Institutions or Cetera Investors), and Cetera Financial Specialists LLC. All firms...

07/17/2026

Market volatility has returned, led by weakness in technology stocks. While the headlines may feel unsettling, the broader market has remained more resilient, reinforcing the value of diversification and a long-term perspective.
Read the Cetera Investment Management Team's latest market commentary:

Market volatility has returned, led by weakness in technology stocks. While the headlines may feel unsettling, the broader market has remained more resilient,…

07/17/2026

Creating a will is crucial, but remember: life changes. When it does, so should your estate strategy. Regularly updating your will keeps it aligned with your current circumstances and wishes. Here are 7 reasons to revisit your will:

1️⃣ Family Changes: Marriage, divorce, births, or losses can impact your strategy.
2️⃣ Relocation: Different places, different laws.
3️⃣ Financial Shifts: Reflect on your current assets.
4️⃣ Executor/Trustee: Ensure they’re still the right choice.
5️⃣ Law Changes: Stay compliant and minimize taxes.
6️⃣ Beneficiary Updates: Reflect evolving relationships.
7️⃣ Time: Review every 3-5 years.

07/16/2026

Read the latest issue of Financial Watch here:

Your emergency fund is one of the most important financial tools you have. It is what stands between an unexpected car repair and a credit card balance that…

07/16/2026

There are so many reasons to create a will this month, but here are three big ones to consider:

Direct Your Property: Creating a will tells the courts how you want your property distributed. Without a will, state laws will determine how your estate is divided, which may not align with your intentions.

Provide instructions to the probate court: A will can help manage the probate process, providing instructions to the court.

Designate Guardianship for Minor Children: If you have minor children, a will allows you to appoint a guardian to care for them. This crucial step directs that your children are raised by someone you trust, rather than leaving the decision to the courts.

07/15/2026

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has released the Medicare Part A and Part B premiums and deductibles for the upcoming year.

Here's a look at the new figures:
▪️Part B premium: $202.90 per month (previously $185)
▪️Part B deductible: $283 (previously $257) before Original Medicare begins covering services.
▪️Part A inpatient deductible: $1,736 (previously $1,676)

These updates take effect in January and reflect the latest adjustments from CMS. Individuals enrolled in Medicare may notice changes in their monthly costs or coverage details for the upcoming year.

07/14/2026

Read the latest issue of Retire Wise here:

Inflation works quietly in the background, and over time, even a modest rise in the cost of everyday goods and services can chip away at the lifestyle you…

07/14/2026

Life insurance is often framed as something you only think about "just in case."

But for many people, it can be part of a broader financial foundation—supporting both current flexibility and future considerations.

From how coverage works to what employer benefits actually provide, understanding the basics can make it easier to decide what fits your situation.

Several factors affect the cost and availability of life insurance. And any guarantees associated with a policy depend on the issuing insurance company's ability to continue making claim payments.

07/13/2026

Earnings season begins this week, with major banks kicking off a six-week stretch of quarterly reports. Join CIO Gene Goldman as he explains why earnings matter, what investors should watch for in the latest results, and how markets may respond as companies report against elevated expectations in .

“Cetera Financial Group” refers to the network of independent retail firms encompassing, among others, Cetera Advisors LLC, Cetera Advisor Networks LLC, Cetera Investment Services LLC (marketed as Cetera Financial Institutions or Cetera Investors), and Cetera Financial Specialists LLC. All firms...

07/13/2026

Despite a powerful Q2, individuals are hesitant.