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Resources for Every Need
Discover valuable insights and practical tips to help you navigate your financial journey.
Private Markets: Private Equity: From Leverage to Leadership
Private equity is shifting from financial engineering to operational value creation. Jake Stapleton, MBA, explains how today’s firms are building long-term returns through growth and efficiency.
Global Economy: Positioning for a Late Cycle Economy
Slowing job growth, persistent deficits, and rate cuts are reshaping the policy landscape. Emil Suqi, CFA®, shares how these forces are influencing fixed income strategy and late-cycle portfolio positioning.
Equity: Emergent Themes and Attractive Valuations
As AI builds momentum and valuations climb, opportunities are emerging in innovation and natural resources. Ryan Lange, CFA®, CAIA, explores how diversification can help balance risk and return.
September 2025 in Review
Labor market revisions, a Fed rate cut, and strong GDP growth shaped markets in September. Chris Zabel, Portfolio Manager, recaps the latest economic trends and what could drive markets into year-end.
Securing Your Business in 2025
Hear from our experts on combating payment fraud and safeguarding your business against today’s top risks.
Top 10 Tips for Beneficiaries Managing a Financial Settlement
Doug Warren, Senior Trust Officer, shares practical steps to help beneficiaries protect assets, avoid common pitfalls, and build a long-term plan for lasting financial stability after receiving a settlement.
August 2025 in Review
Slower job growth and evolving Fed expectations shaped markets in August. Dan Zeigler CFP®, CMFC®, Senior Portfolio Manager, shares updates on employment, inflation, rate projections, and how equities and fixed income are responding.
July 2025 in Review
Markets remained resilient in July as new trade deals with Japan and the EU brought tariffs back into focus. Chris Zabel, Portfolio Manager, recaps the latest on earnings, Fed policy, and what could shape the outlook for the second half of the year.
Global Economy: Deficits, Debt, and the “Big Beautiful Bill”
Persistent deficits and rising debt levels are reshaping the fiscal landscape. Emil Suqi, CFA®, and Jake Stapleton, MBA, explore how these forces may impact markets and why global diversification is gaining traction.
Fixed Income: Holding Steady, Looking Globally
Amid rate cut speculation and rising developed-market debt, Tonia Maly, CFP®, CRPC®, and Denise Melton examine why emerging market bonds may offer income, stability, and new opportunity for fixed income investors.
Equity: Narrow Gains, Broader Hopes
Markets climbed to new highs in Q2, but most gains were concentrated in tech. Dan Zeigler, CFP®, CMFC®, and Christopher Zabel highlight key trends and how policy shifts could broaden market leadership in the months ahead.
June 2025 in Review
Markets held steady in June as investor attention shifted from trade policy to geopolitical tensions. Dan Zeigler, Senior Portfolio Manager, shares insights on oil price moves, equity performance, Fed updates, and what could shape the second half of the year.
New to Real Estate? Here’s How Investment Property Loans Work
New to real estate investing? Learn how investment property loans work and what you may need to know about financing a rental property.
Need Cash for a Big Purchase? Compare Refinancing vs. Home Equity Loans
Looking to fund a big purchase by borrowing from your home’s value? You’ve got options. Explore home refinancing vs equity loan options including HELOCs.
First-Time Home Buyer Guide for Single Parents
Buying a home as a single parent? Learn how single moms and dads can navigate first-time home loans and make confident, informed financial decisions.
Cash-Out Refi 101: Turn Your Home Equity Into Cash
Feeling house rich, cash poor? A cash-out refinance might be the answer. Learn how to turn your home equity into cash today.
May 2025 in Review
Markets gained ground in May as progress in trade negotiations helped reverse earlier declines. Chris Zabel, Portfolio Manager, shares highlights on market recovery, bond yield shifts, earnings updates, and what’s ahead as tariff talks continue.
Do I Need a Business Bank Account for an LLC?
Wondering if your LLC needs a separate bank account? Learn why it matters and how it helps you stay protected and organized.
Looking For Answers? Here's How a Business Bank Account Works
Learn how a business bank account works and how it helps your business stay organized, professional, and ready for growth. Start banking smarter today.
What Do You Need to Start a Business Bank Account?
Starting a business account? Here’s what you need to open a business checking account - documents, steps, and tips to make it easy.
What Do You Need to Open a Bank Account?
Whether you're starting your first account or adding a new one, knowing what you need to open a bank account can save you time and hassle. Here's what you need to get started.
Do Checking Accounts Earn Interest?
Did you know checking accounts can help grow your money? Let’s break down how and when you can earn interest from your checking account.
Does Closing a Checking Account Affect Credit Score?
Closing a bank account in good standing won’t hurt your credit score, but there’s more to the story.
Which Mortgage Fits Your Homeownership Goals?
Take our Home Buying Quiz to understand different home financing options that may fit your needs when buying a home.
Building a Home? Start Exploring Financing Options
Discover personalized financing options for building your ideal home with our quick quiz. Get matched and start planning today.
Take the Quiz & Find a Mortgage That Fits Your Refi Plans
Answer a few quick questions to find the mortgage refinancing option that may best suits your needs.
April 2025 in Review
Markets remained volatile in April as sweeping tariffs reignited trade tensions and weighed on investor sentiment. Dan Zeigler, Senior Portfolio Manager, recaps how markets reacted, what drove earnings strength, and what the team is watching in the months ahead.
A Step-by-Step Guide to the Home Buying Process
Navigate the home buying process with confidence. From pre-approval to closing, Midland's tips and resources can help guide you.
March 2025 in Review
March brought more market volatility, driven by concerns around tariffs, inflation, and the broader economy. Chris Zabel, Portfolio Manager, breaks down the month’s market moves, interest rate updates, and why international markets are gaining attention.
How Do Home Improvement Loans Work?
A home improvement loan allows homeowners to borrow money for their renovation plans when they don't have the savings to pay out of pocket. Home improvement needs sometimes sneak up on homeowners. Renovations can be very expensive, rack up tens of thousands of dollars, and many homeowners just don't have the funds saved for home repairs.
Should You Get a Home Improvement Loan?
Over the last couple of years, more homeowners have taken on the kitchen remodel or master bathroom upgrade they've been putting off leading to an increase in home improvements. Whether you're working on your fixer-upper or looking to make your home more appealing to buyers on the market, home renovations can help you make your vision a reality.
February 2025 in Review
Markets faced volatility in February, with stocks reacting to economic uncertainty and policy concerns. Dan Zeigler, Senior Portfolio Manager, recaps key trends, including market performance, interest rates, and what’s ahead.
January 2025 in Review
Markets started the year on a strong note. Christopher Zabel, Portfolio Manager, recaps January’s performance, where the S&P 500 gained momentum despite market volatility.
December 2024 in Review
Dan Zeigler, Senior Portfolio Manager, shares a December recap and reflects on 2024’s market performance. The S&P 500 posted strong annual gains, supported by AI growth, resilient economic trends, and Federal Reserve rate cuts.
November 2024 in Review
Welcome to the monthly market update from Midland Wealth Management. I am Dan Zeigler, Senior Portfolio Manager. Today, I wanted to take a few minutes to give you an update on the markets for the month of November.
Key Changes in the Secure Act 2.0 for IRAs and 401(k)s (Effective 2025)
The Secure Act 2.0 introduces new updates to improve your retirement savings strategy. These changes affect both Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs) and 401(k) plans. Here are five key updates to know for 2025...
October 2024 in Review
Welcome to the monthly market update from Midland Wealth Management. I am Dan Zeigler, Senior Portfolio Manager. Today, I wanted to take a few minutes to give you an update on the markets for the month of October.
Long-Term Care & Your Financial Plan
As more people live longer, planning for long-term care has become an essential part of financial wellness. Whether you wish to remain at home or reduce the caregiving burden on your family, having a plan in place may make a significant difference.
September 2024 in Review
Welcome to the monthly market update from Midland Wealth Management. I am Dan Zeigler, Senior Portfolio Manager. Today, I wanted to take a few minutes to give you an update on the markets for the month of September.
August 2024 in Review
Welcome to the monthly market update from Midland Wealth Management. I am Dan Zeigler, Senior Portfolio Manager. Today, I wanted to spend a few minutes to give you an update on the markets for the month of August.
Estate Planning 101
An estate plan can help protect your family and finances during your life and after you die. It is important to review your estate plan after any life-changing event. These events include marriage, divorce, other domestic arrangement changes, a financial windfall, the birth or adoption of a child.
Socially Responsible Investing 101
Midland Wealth Management’s Socially Responsible Portfolio is structured with high quality funds investing in the fixed income, equity and alternative markets. In addition to the normal quantitative analysis, these funds evaluate supplemental factors when reviewing profitable and growing companies. These factors can be categorized into three main groups: Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG).
July 2024 in Review
Welcome to the monthly market update from Midland Wealth Management. I am Chris Zabel, Portfolio Manager. Today, I wanted to take a few minutes to give you an update on the markets for the month of July.
June 2024 in Review
Welcome to the monthly market update from Midland Wealth Management. I am Dan Zeigler, Senior Portfolio Manager. Today, I wanted to spend a few minutes to give you an update on the markets for the month of June.
May 2024 in Review
Welcome to the monthly market update from Midland Wealth Management. I’m Chris Zabel, Portfolio Manager. Today, I wanted to take a few minutes to give you an update on the markets for the month of May.
April 2024 in Review
Welcome to the monthly market update from Midland Wealth Management. I am Dan Zeigler, Senior Portfolio Manager. Today I just wanted to spend a few minutes to give you an update on the markets for the month of February.
March 2024 in Review
Welcome to the monthly market update from Midland Wealth Management. I am Chris Zabel, Portfolio Manager. Today I wanted to take a few minutes to give you an update on the markets for the month of March.
February 2024 in Review
Welcome to the monthly market update from Midland Wealth Management. I am Dan Zeigler, Senior Portfolio Manager. Today I just wanted to spend a few minutes to give you an update on the markets for the month of February.
January 2024 in Review
Welcome to the monthly market update from Midland Wealth Management. I am Dan Zeigler, Senior Portfolio Manager. Today I just wanted to spend a few minutes to give you an update on the markets for the month of January.
Business Ownership Insights: Corporate Transparency Act
The Corporate Transparency Act (CTA), effective January 1, 2024, impacts millions of small businesses across the U.S.
December 2023 in Review
Welcome to the monthly market update from Midland Wealth Management. I am Chris Zabel, Assistant Portfolio Manager. Today I wanted to take a few minutes to give you an update on the markets for the month of December.
Plan Sponsor Update 2024 Retirement and Employee Benefit Plan Limits
The Internal Revenue Service released 2024 cost-of-living adjustments for dollar limitations on benefits and contributions. These include employer-sponsored retirement and welfare plans and may affect how plan sponsors administer their plans in the coming year.
November 2023 in Review
Welcome to the monthly market update from Midland Wealth Management. I am Dan Zeigler, Senior Portfolio Manager. Today I just wanted to spend a few minutes to give you an update on the markets for the month of November.
Cybersecurity Awareness Month: It's That Time of Year
Did you know that October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month? It’s true – since 2004, the President of the United States and Congress have declared October as a month dedicated for the public and private sectors and tribal communities to work together to raise awareness about the importance of cybersecurity.
October 2023 in Review
Welcome to the monthly market update from Midland Wealth Management. I am Dan Zeigler, Senior Portfolio Manager. Today I just wanted to spend a few minutes to give you an update on the markets for the month of October.
Estate Planning Tools: Transfer on Death Instrument
The Illinois Real Estate Transfer on Death Instrument Act (755 ILCS 27/1 et seq.) has been in existence for a little over a decade now, and consideration should be given to using a transfer on death instrument (“TODI” in this article) as part of your estate plan. But what is a TODI? And does everyone need one? The goal of this article is to provide a general overview of the TODI and help you determine if your estate plan should include one.
September 2023 in Review
Welcome to the monthly market update from Midland Wealth Management. I am Dan Zeigler, Senior Portfolio Manager. Today I wanted to spend a few minutes to give you an update on the markets for the month of September.
August 2023 in Review
Welcome to the monthly market update from Midland Wealth Management. I am Dan Zeigler, Senior Portfolio Manager. Today I wanted to take a few minutes to give you an update on the markets for the month of August.
What is a Qualified Charitable Distribution?
Most Americans give to charity on a regular basis. What many Americans may not realize is that their charitable donations are not receiving the same tax benefits that they once did.
Charitable Giving Strategies
Charitable giving is a great way to help save on income taxes, maximize your impact on a charitable legacy you hold dear to your heart, and potentially help minimize death taxes.
Will a Nursing Home Take All My Assets?
A concern we frequently hear goes something like this: “If I ever go into a nursing home, they’re going to take all my assets!” While this concern may not be accurate, the underlying fear is real: all your life savings being used up to pay for your end-of-life care, leaving little left for your loved ones.
Charitable Giving
A giving legacy can help fulfill your philanthropic goals.
Retirement Plan Legislation Secure Act Highlights
The new law requires employers to set a default contribution rate of at least 3% but not more than 10% for the employee, plus an automatic contribution escalation of 1% per year up to a maximum contribution rate of at least 10% but not more than 15%.
Crypto Insights: Exploring What Happened with FTX
By now everyone has heard of the collapse of crypto exchange FTX and its founder, Sam Bankman-Fried (known in the crypto community as SBF). FTX was viewed as one of the darlings of the crypto space. It was thought to be among the most secure. SBF was even lobbying for crypto regulation. FTX was believed to be stable in an extremely volatile space. Having it collapse in the way it did is what’s really shocking. Its collapse has played a huge role in what is happening in crypto right now.
Navigating the Trustee Selection Process
Trusts have been part of the estate planning conversation for over a thousand years and have become the primary estate planning vehicle in use today. The Trustee is charged with certain duties relative to their role. While being nominated may be an honor, serving as a Trustee carries risk and responsibilities.
2023 Outlook Webinar - Midland Wealth Management
Midland Wealth Management hosted a year-end wrap-up and 2023 outlook webinar on 1/25/2023.
Presenters included: Jayne Hladio, MBA, President of Midland Wealth Management and Betsy Pierson, CFA, Chief Investment Officer.
5 Most Common Beneficiary Designation Mistakes
One aspect of estate planning that can often be overlooked is making sure your beneficiary designations are up to date. Many people think that once you have signed your Last Will and Testament, your estate plan is complete. Not so fast! This may surprise you, but oftentimes a person’s Will governs very few assets at the time of their death. Consider retirement accounts and life insurance: it is not the Will, but rather the beneficiary designation that these assets have that will govern who receives it at the time of death.
Avoiding and Identifying Scams
AARP has reported that 3 out of 4 U.S. adults have experienced or have been targeted by at least one form of fraud. Scams and fraud have soared across the U.S., but reported losses are just the tip of the iceberg. Losses are often not reported because of the shame and blame attached to the victims of fraud. More than 1 in 4 people who reported losing money to Fraud in 2021 said it started on Social Media.
Is Your Company Retirement Plan Due for a Checkup?
Many employers offer 401(k) and/or profit sharing plans. Employers, as Plan Sponsors, have a fiduciary responsibility to review periodically the plan’s terms, features, fees, investments with their vendor(s) and their vendors to assess whether any plan changes are required to satisfy the compliance and fiduciary standards required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA). The day-to-day business and employee needs, generally, take precedent which makes it difficult for employers to find time to review their plans.
Do I Need a Trust?
One of the most common questions we hear from clients is, “Do I need a Trust?”
While I like giving neat-and-tidy answers, this is not one of those questions where that can be done. Every person’s estate is a little bit different, and this requires individual analysis before determining if a trust is right for you. My goal in this article is to help you in this analysis, so that we can answer this question for you.v
Protective Benefits Leaving Assets Trust Fund
When preparing your estate plan, one of the major decisions you will need to make is not only WHO your beneficiaries will be, but also HOW you will your assets to them. Most people assume because they do not have millions of dollars and all their beneficiaries are adults, a trust fund is not the right choice for them. They instead opt to leave the inheritance to their beneficiaries all in one lump sum (what is called an “outright” bequest). If this is you, please take a moment and read this brief article, and see if I can convince you to reconsider your plan in light of all the benefits a trust fund could afford to your beneficiaries.
Inheritance Questions and Considerations
Inheritance is a process that involves passing on material property from one generation to another, usually within the family and traditionally from older parents to their children. As trust officers and wealth advisors, we are often asked, “When is the best time to make a transfer to another generation?”
What to Review and Revise Amidst Divorce
Have you heard the old joke, “What is the number one cause of divorce? Marriage!” Bad humor aside, divorce rates are increasing around the world. The pandemic has presented couples an unprecedented challenge. It may be appropriate to review what actions should be taken by either party if there is a divorce.
Age Electronic Will
Over the past two years, conducting business that requires document signings has been a challenge. If witnesses are required, it’s been even more problematic. No business has been more affected by the effects of social distancing than the estate planning world. However, some states, including Illinois, have taken steps to alleviate these issues when it comes to signing a will. The age of the electronic will has now arrived.
Pet Trusts
Although surveys differ, up to 68% of households in the United States are thought to contain one or more animals considered to be a pet. 1 And an astute observer might notice that many pet owners consider their pets to be more than animals. They are beloved members of the family. And like other loved ones, many Americans want to ensure that their furry, feathery, or scaly friends are cared for should they die while their pet is still living.
Estate Planning Digital Assets
How would you feel about losing over $220,000,000? Stefan Thomas said, “time heals all wounds,” and he is at peace with losing over 220 million dollars’ worth of Bitcoin. Mr. Thomas’s potential loss is the result of forgetting his password to the USB hard drive containing the digital wallet holding 7,002 Bitcoins! He has already failed 11 attempts to access the account and if he reaches 13 failed attempts, the Bitcoins are lost forever.
Facing the Possibility of Incapacity
Even with modern medicine and interventions, it is a real possibility that you or your spouse could become incapable of handling your own medical or financial affairs. A serious illness or sudden accident can happen at any age. Advancing age can bring senility, Alzheimer's disease or other ailments that affect your capacity to make sound decisions about your health. These can also impact the way you manage your finances, including your ability to pay bills, write checks, make deposits or sell assets.
Our team of dedicated professionals are here to support you.
