tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-70282776561815028892024-03-05T23:42:17.512-05:00Tom's BlogRandom Observations On (Local and not so Local) Financial Literacy TopicsAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15586888987864426986noreply@blogger.comBlogger53125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7028277656181502889.post-6822496453163021462017-03-20T15:22:00.002-04:002017-03-20T15:22:47.754-04:00Tom Sirois’ 4 Golden Rules On Money Management<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Tom Sirois has been described by many as one of the most competent financial advisers in the Country. That can be understood as he has more than 20 years of bank management experience. He has worked with local branches like Banknorth Massachusetts and Fleet where he served as a mortgage manager. Over the years, he has interacted with both local and international investors an experience that has seen him earn strong connections in the local financial community.<br />
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Tom’s banking experience taught him firsthand how present-day consumers and sizeable business owners often buy products not because of their respective needs but because of concerted efforts by manufacturers to make profits. He soon noted that individuals and local families could benefit from detailed objective advice in regard to money matters.<br />
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Raised in a family of 15 with a mother who was keen on debt handling, planning and budgeting, Tom realized at a very early age the value of money management. He has a degree in Economics from Skidmore College, NY. He furthered his studies at College of St.Rose in Albany where he majored in financial planning before joining Boston University School of Finance. He lives in Stockbridge with Michele, his wife and their three children.<br />
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<a href="http://www.tomsirois.com/2017/01/tom-sirois-on-how-to-manage-personal.html" target="_blank">According to Tom, efficient money management should be fun and easy</a>. He notes that you do not have to go for perfect money management tips to be rich or to attain financial independence. He believes that one should be able to generate a personal system where money can be automatically saved. He believes that this can be achieved through the following tips.<br />
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<b>Minimizing expenses</b><br />
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As far as minimizing expenses is concerned, Tom believes in one golden rule; that your expenses should at all times be less than your earnings. While this sounds like a cliché rule to many, Tom points out that it is by far one of the most effective money saving tips. He adds that one must also be willing to think about money in a positive way so as to come up with a smart and automatic savings system.<br />
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<b>Saving money painlessly</b><br />
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Tom agrees with respected financial advisers that you should be able to save money without any pain. In other words, there should not be any form of impact on your social life or on the lifestyle of your immediate loved ones in the name of saving. Home supplies should not be affected. To make your savings easier, you should invest in items that can guarantee high returns.<br />
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<b>Savings without restrictions</b><br />
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<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/tomsirois" target="_blank">Tom Sirois</a> explains that you do not have to forego your vacations in your pursuit for financial independence. Your children do not have to play without their favorite toys either. Your best bet is to therefore come up with a system that will enable you to save and spend a little on entertainment and other social issues.<br />
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<b>Spend wisely</b><br />
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This sounds like a cliché yet again. But like you will learn with time, spending wisely is like learning a new artistic skill. It is hard at first but easy as time goes. All you need to do is be disciplined. Tom therefore advises that you should be keen on the amount of money you spend every month on things that do not matter. This, he says will eventually see you run bankrupt. He asserts that spending wisely is all about coming with a budget for everything. He then adds that there are two main ways to have more money. One is by cutting down expenses and the other is by saving.<br />
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To achieve the above mentioned ways of making more money, you must have impressive organizational skills and be disciplined. These are skills that can be acquired over a short period of time. You only need to be consistent and stick to your rules to the last word. You also need to be realistic with your goals and be keen on expenses like insurance and mortgage. He supports seeking assistance from other financial experts where one feels stuck.<br />
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<a href="https://www.facebook.com/public/Tom-Sirois" target="_blank">Tom</a> is active on social media especially on Facebook where he occasionally shares money management weeks. He also has a good rating on <a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/tom-sirois-berkshire-hills-financial-great-barrington" target="_blank">Yelp</a> especially from people who have in one way or another benefited from his advice.</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11466693234665617588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7028277656181502889.post-55617458023470243082017-01-30T13:30:00.001-05:002017-01-30T13:30:13.855-05:00Tom Sirois On How To Manage Personal Finance<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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For more than 20 years, <a href="http://www.tomsirois.com/" target="_blank">Tom Sirois</a> has endeavored to share
his insights on personal finance to help people manage their finances. He is
active on Facebook where he regularly engages his followers on money management
skills. His Yelp profile can also be resourceful for those who wish to follow
his insights closely. His experience in the mortgage and finance sector as well
as his in depth knowledge and skills in money matters makes him one of the most
respected financial advisors in the country. According to Tom, one should
observe the following personal finance rules so as to achieve financial
independence. </div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Come up with a plan</b></div>
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A comprehensive financial plan will go a long way to help
you stay grounded. It is in fact, one of the best ways to improve the quality
of your lifestyle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Be smart and start
exploring ways that can help you protect your assets and financial resources. <a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="_GoBack"></a><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That way, you can
reduce future uncertainties significantly. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/tomsirois" target="_blank">TOM SIROIS notes</a> that you can avoid
debts only through control of your financial affairs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>With a comprehensive financial plan, you can
avoid bankruptcy and depending on others for financial security. </div>
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Tom further advises that a comprehensive plan can also
improve the quality of your personal relationships. You can then have an easy
way communicating with anyone who may be affected directly and indirectly with
your financial decisions. As you develop a plan and see it come into fruition,
you will attain a sense of financial freedom. Your decision making skills will
also improve because you will have to make hundreds of money decisions
daily.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>With a good plan, your personal
financial matters should be able to address three crucial needs.</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>Spend – your plan should make it easy for you to
spend on things that matter the most. In other words, your plan should help you
to know when and how to prioritize your needs. </div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>Save – what is left after you have taken care of
all pressing needs? Address this question then start saving. You should however
note that the best way to save is to have an automated system that can make
prompt deductions from your income and save some amount before you can start
spending.</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>Share – consider what you share as the surplus
from what is left after you have saved and spend what you need to.</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Fulfill your goals</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This can be easy if you have a plan that is realistic. With
such a plan, you should be able to set financial goals that can you can fulfill
without struggling. Tom advises that the goals you come up with should be
developed according to your current situation. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In other words, be realistic and observe your
income and expenditure trends before you can set financial goals. The goals
should not deprive you your comforts or force you to live a hard life. You
should have access to quality food, decent housing and enjoy your social life
with friends and loved ones. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Once you have your goals in place, make a habit of reviewing
the goals on a consistent basis. This will help you note where you have tripped
and where you need to make prompt adjustments. In the end, you will find it
easy to fulfill both long term and short term financial goals. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Come up with
alternatives</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
These are Plan B’s. <a href="http://berkshirehillsfinancial.com/" target="_blank">TOM SIROIS</a> advises that following your
financial plan without alternatives is not a smart move.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He notes that you should be able to analyze
and assess your plan so as to know what to expect each time you make a
decision. You may have to make rushed decisions which can easily have an impact
on your lifestyle and plan. With a good alternative, you will get back on your
feet without hurting your finances or without feeling like you have taken a
thousand steps back. He further points out that your plan B should be easy to
implement within a short time. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Day to day
expenditure</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This has a lot to do with your spending habits. Tom explains
that your purchase power has a direct link with the rise and fall of inflation.
Therefore, your decision to spend on any time should be based on the cost of
that item and the kind of impact such expenditure will have on your plan. In a
nutshell, make purchases and spend on items that last. The items should also
have positive long term effects on your finances.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11466693234665617588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7028277656181502889.post-26150885374108428722017-01-11T09:52:00.001-05:002017-01-11T09:52:46.783-05:00Tom Sirois on personal finance!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
TOM SIROIS offers simple tips for efficient money management. You will not want to be perfect to be rich. You will not want to be a smart person to become rich. If you set your goals and forget about them, your goals are not achieved. There should be consistent efforts to realize your dreams. You should generate a system so that the money will be saved automatically. In this process, you will invest in right places so that the money will grow automatically and the risk will be minimized.<br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;">
<b>Minimize your expenses</b></h2>
There will be sufficient funds to spend on various aspects so that there will not be any issues. You should enjoy true financial freedom. To invest wisely, you will not want to go through the voluminous information. The golden rule is that your expenses should always be less than your earnings. You will not fall into debts when you minimize your expenses.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/tomsirois">TOM SIROIS</a> says that if you go into debts, the debts will siphon off your savings. On the other hand, you will not have funds to handle emergencies. When debts increase, you will go through a situation where the interest paid on debts will be very high and it will impact the quality of life as well. To start savings, you will not want to go through the compound interest charts. High level of financial education is not required.<br />
<br />
You should have the willingness to think about money. By applying your mind to save in different forms, you will have great prospects to save money on a monthly and annual basis. If you go through the conventional money advice, there will be a great deal of frustration. You will be confused to apply the right strategy. When you create an automated system, you will spend less and the savings will increase.<br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;">
<a href="http://www.tomsirois.com/2016/11/tom-sirois-on-saving-money.html">Saving money painlessly</a></h2>
You should be able to save money without any pain. There should not be any impact on the family members in your endeavor towards better savings. The supply of household items will not be halted. You will not put a full stop to reasonable comfort that you will enjoy at high. There will not be any<br />
relationship issues when you follow the simple and effective steps suggested by TOM SIROIS.<br />
Beginners will be able to invest on items where great returns are guaranteed. It is possible to eliminate debt in the best possible way so that there will not be any issues. You will come out of debts in a painless manner. You will understand ways to take your money to the next level through prudent saving options. The skills that you derive through the systematic education will help you manage your finances in a better way, and there will be absolute satisfaction.<br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;">
Saving without restrictions</h2>
When you follow the tips offered by <a href="http://www.tomsirois.com/">TOM SIROIS</a>, you will be able to save without any limitations. You will not want to forgo vacations. You will not want to withhold buying your favorite items. When you place systems in place, there will not address any issues. You will not want to beat the market to invest your money.<br />
<br />
You will enjoy many benefits when you can save money for the future. It is possible to help your parents to save money for their retirement. You will build a system so that the money will work while you are sleeping. You will implement best strategies to save money and pay your bills without any issues. The investment options are hassle-free, and it will be done automatically.<br />
<br />
You will enjoy life’s guilty pleasures, and the saving will take place in a painless manner. If you have a credit card debt, it can be cleared very easily by following the best strategy.<br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;">
Tapping the hidden income</h2>
The money that you are throwing away on every month will let you get into unfair advantage. When extra cash flows into all your accounts, you will be able to manage many things in an effortless manner. By spending less, there will be more money to invest. You will not go through strict budgets so that there will not be any compromise on your vacation.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/tom-sirois-berkshire-hills-financial-great-barrington">TOM SIROIS</a> will let you understand the fact that there are two ways to have more money. On the other hand, you can cut down your expenses. If you can manage best negotiation skills, there is scope for significant savings.<br />
<br />
You will not want to cut those things that you love, and you will avoid those things that you hate. By following best negotiation practices, you will pay lower prices. There will be lower prices on bank & credit card fees, car insurance and cell phone. If you can cut down few 5 minute phone calls, there will be great savings. TOM SIROIS will teach you easy ways to save money on car insurance and cell phone bills. Saving thousands of dollars on an annual basis is possible.<br />
<br />
It is quite common that most of the customers will choose the insurance premium and they will not go through the details. If there is coverage which will not serve your interests, you will pay a fraction of the insurance in an unprofitable way. If you can eliminate the unwanted component from the insurance premium, you can save hundreds of dollars every year.<br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;">
Right coverage</h2>
Before purchasing an insurance plan, you should go through your requirements. You can also go through the reviews presented by experts so that your needs will be fulfilled in the best possible way. You should go through the current plan. You should spend time and effort to go through the details. If you are aware of the current coverage, you can take steps to save money. If you visit the official website, you will understand various riders through which the coverage can be increased. On the other certain riders which are not relevant to your circumstances should be unsubscribed. Thus, there is great potential to save money on insurance premium. Similar logic can be applied to your personal insurance as well.</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11466693234665617588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7028277656181502889.post-38505306635417237872016-12-21T16:17:00.000-05:002016-12-21T16:17:13.426-05:00Money saving tips by TOM SIROIS!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<a href="http://berkshirehillsfinancial.com/">TOM SIROIS</a> shares useful tips to save money in various ways. He is committed to empowering financial needs in the best possible way. There are various ways to cut down your expenses. If you are successful in elimination of expenses, you have learnt the secret of savings. Businesses will follow various methods to retain customers. They would like to keep existing customers by all possible ways. It is understood that the acquirement of a new customer is a costlier process. Instead of acquiring a new customer, there should be more focus on retaining the existing customers.<br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;">
Wise spending on cell phone</h2>
<a href="http://www.pcworld.com/article/255495/12_tips_to_cut_your_cell_phone_bill.html">To cut down cell phone costs</a>, you should choose the best cell phone network and best plan. If you go through the comparison of various networks and plans, it is possible to choose the most appropriate plan to fulfill your needs. You can call the current company and should enquire about the better plans offered by the service provider. If you can save money with a new plan, you should opt for the same even though you are going to pay the penalty for withdrawing from the existing contract. This will be a wise decision as you will save hundreds of dollars on an annual basis.<br />
<br />
You should pay with few phone calls and the plan that best works out for your interests should be noticed. You can reach the customer support team of the existing network to figure out the best plan that can fulfill your needs. If you remind the customer support team the cost involved in retaining a customer vs. the cost involved in acquiring a new customer, it is possible to get a favorable reply. The same trick can be played with all kinds of subscriptions that you make on a monthly basis so that there will be substantial savings on a monthly basis as well as annual basis.<br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;">
Negotiate with the bank</h2>
<a href="http://berkshirehillsfinancial.com/about/">TOM SIROIS</a> suggests you get a better deal with the credit card agency. There are useful tips which can be played so that you will be able to pay lower interest rates on the credit card. If you can manage lower interest rate, it is possible to manage huge debt in the best possible way. There will be saving worth of thousands of dollars even though you can manage few percentage points on credit card bills. You can negotiate bank fee in a very simple way. You should not make companies it is easy to say ‘no’. Some other techniques can be tried instead of getting ‘no’ from the customer support team. When the customer support team asks about what else he or she can help, you should repeat your complaint so that they will be able to focus on the answer. If your call reaches the supervisor, you might get a better resolution.<br />
<br />
If you are with the company or bank for many years, you should take it to your advantage. Being a loyal customer, you will get better bargaining power. If there were an unwanted fee, it would be waived so that the bank or agency will do the client retention.<br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;">
Your overdraft policy</h2>
You should not go into overdraft on a consistent basis. <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/tomsirois">TOM SIROIS</a> says that mistakes will happen. However, you should take new steps so that those mistakes will not happen in future. You should also learn from mistakes so that unwanted expenses can be avoided and you will settle for a better resolution.<br />
<br />
You will get more tips on negotiations so that you can have great saving potential. You can join an email course so that all your doubts will be clarified.<br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;">
Money management</h2>
The money management should be automated so that there will be fixed amount of savings on a monthly basis. If your money automatically goes to where it should go, there will be great savings. The money will be saved automatically. You will not lose a single opportunity to invest in the right place at a right time.<br />
<br />
You will also have sufficient income to spend on what you love so that there will be great satisfaction. There will be true financial freedom as you will be able to make the most of your money. It is possible to end your money worries when you setup the right kind of platform to save money on a consistent basis. <a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/tom-sirois-berkshire-hills-financial-great-barrington">TOM SIROIS</a> will advice you proven ways which are simple and very effective.<br />
You will not be frustrated or <a href="http://www.tomsirois.com/2016/11/tom-sirois-on-saving-money.html">confused with money management</a>. You will spend less than half an hour per month to plan and implement the best strategy for which there will be great savings and expenses are completely minimized. You will generate hidden income so that you will be able to spend money on vacation and entertainment without any interruption.<br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;">
Enhanced earning potential</h2>
To live life to the full possible extent, you should enhance your earning potential. If you can build a bulletproof financial system, it can withstand any economic turmoil without any issues. There will be a great success in your life, and it is possible to spend a vibrant life. The money will work for you, and there will be the highest level of satisfaction.<br />
<br />
You should earn money in fastest and biggest way so that financial power will be very much enhanced. If you can make an additional $1000 on a monthly basis, there will be a great shift in your saving potential. There are multiple ways to make money. It can be done online as well as offline. To success in your earning potential, <a href="http://www.tomsirois.com/2016/12/how-to-manage-personal-finance.html">you can go through the tips offered by TOM SIROIS</a>.<br />
<br />
You should be paid as per your capability. It is possible to make extra money by applying skills that you have already. There are successful online businesses which will pay you even though you are not working. You will set up a system and the system will help you make money without any issues. Your behavior about saving will have a long-term impact on your savings. The spending and investing will also take place in this direction. These actions should be automated so that the savings will increase and there will be great financial empowerment.</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11466693234665617588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7028277656181502889.post-18110825731705743802016-12-07T17:04:00.000-05:002016-12-07T17:04:03.122-05:00How to manage personal finance?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/tomsirois">TOM SIROIS</a> teaches best ways to manage your financial decisions so that you will save money for future without any issues. You should also realize the time value of money. You should be able to analyze the process of making personal financial decisions. As you develop personal financial goals, they can be realized in a very efficient way. You will strive to achieve the goals, and the saving will be done in the best possible way. Personal and economic factors that influence personal financial planning should be assessed.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Comprehensive financial plan</span></h2>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">You should go for a comprehensive financial plan so that there will be great improvement in the quality of life. The uncertainty about future needs can be reduced in the best possible way. You should explore ways to protect financial resources throughout your life. <a href="http://berkshirehillsfinancial.com/">TOM SIROIS</a> suggests control of financial affairs so that excessive debt can be avoided. The ways that will lead towards bankruptcy can be prevented, and dependence on others for financial security can be avoided.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Personal relationships will be very much enhanced, and financial decisions should be communicated in a very efficient way. As you develop a system, you will have a sense of financial freedom and all kinds of worries can be avoided. You can achieve your personal economic goals without any issues. As you will make hundreds of decisions on a daily basis, you should be aware of consequences of those decisions. Most of the decisions are very simple. However, you will want to take complex decisions as well which will have long-term repercussions on your life and future.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">There will be an impact on your personal as well financial situation. The three personal financial matters that you should address are mentioned below:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">* Spend</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">* Save</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">* Share</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">You will want to spend on a daily basis and for major expenditures. The spending on account of recreational activities should also be calculated in this process. <a href="http://berkshirehillsfinancial.com/about">TOM SIROIS</a> suggests you save for long-term financial security. There should be concern about sharing as you will be able to help others so that they will be able to organize their lives in the best possible way.</span><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Fulfillment of financial goals</span></h2>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">You should develop financial goals so that there will be great fulfillment. These goals should be developed based on the current financial situation. The goals will not deprive you all your comforts. You will have access to nutritional food as well as vacations to get relief from the stress. After developing goals, you should identify an alternate course of action. Alternatives should be evaluated, and various factors should be considered in this context.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">You should consider the life situation, personal values and economic factors as well. The risk potential should be assessed and the time value of the money should be calculated. The opportunity cost should be assessed. The best financial action plan should be created and implemented so that you will be able to make the most of your investment. The financial plan should be reviewed and revised to fulfill your short-term as well as long-term goals.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Making a decision is easy. However, the determination and the commitment to abide by the decision will let you get the most out of your life. You should go through a logical financial planning process.</span><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Development of alternatives</span></h2>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">TOM SIROIS says that it is crucial to develop alternatives. When you make decisions, there should be alternatives as well. In some cases, you will want to continue the same course of action. If you can expand the current situation, it is possible to save larger amount on a monthly basis.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">By implementing a new action plan, you can reduce debts. The credit card debts can be paid by using monthly savings. You should be able to figure</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">out possible courses of action which can address your financial needs. The financial discipline is very much important so that you will be able to manage funds for your day-to-day living and the long-term goals will also be achieved without any issues.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">To make effective choices, you should have creativity. To make an efficient and satisfying decision, you should explore all possible alternatives. Instead of using car or own vehicle to attend work or school, you can explore the possibility to use the public transportation system. Carpooling is another option through which there will be substantial savings. You will address environmental concerns as well in this process.</span><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Planning your personal finances</span></h2>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/public/Thomas-Sirois">TOM SIROIS</a> suggests effective ways for planning your personal finance. The changes in buying power will rise or fall due to inflation. The decision to buy an item should be taken based on the cost of the item and inflation. If the value of the money is going down, you can postpone the buying option.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The change in interest rate will also affect the cost of the item. If the interest rate increases after borrowing an item, you will lose money. On the other hand, if the interest rate decreases after borrowing, you will make gains. Some loans are based on variable interest rates.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The risk potential to the income should be assessed. If there are changes in consumer spending, there will be a risk to your job. Expanded use of new technology will also lead to loss of a job. Hence, you should be able to upgrade your skill and enhance your knowledge base so that you will not be jobless.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">There will be certain personal risk involved with your purchase decisions. If you purchase a certain item, there will be risk when the brand relocates. You might face issues in repairing the product. The time, effort and money spent in this direction should be assessed.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">You should take steps to overcome liquidity a risk as well. There are certain investments which have great potential to attract higher interest rates.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">However, if there is liquidity crunch, you will not be able to realize the money, and there will be great risk in this process.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Get access to authentic information sources so that best decision can be taken to make the most of your life.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Related Links:</span><br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/tom-sirois-berkshire-hills-financial-great-barrington">https://www.yelp.com/biz/tom-sirois-berkshire-hills-financial-great-barrington</a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.pinterest.com/tomsirois/">https://www.pinterest.com/tomsirois/</a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://plus.google.com/+TomSirois">https://plus.google.com/+TomSirois</a></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11466693234665617588noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7028277656181502889.post-47339314797519436152016-11-21T17:23:00.001-05:002016-11-21T17:24:15.099-05:00Tom Sirois on saving money!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
TOM SIROIS is an expert on financial matters. He advises investors to save money in the best possible way.<br />
Instead of depending on the government, Tom Sirois advises people to invest sensibly. You should do your research before choosing investment options. If you fail to understand the strategy, you should not invest. There should be clarity on the investment. The golden opportunities will come and those opportunities should be utilized in the best possible way so that you can make the most of your investment.<br />
If you listen to the advice given by the government, you will not get the full story. You should get access to the information provided by experts. They will analyze various facts and better conclusions will be reached. You should remember certain financial truths revealed by <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/tomsirois">TOM SIROIS</a>.<br />
<br />
<b>Build your knowledge base</b><br />
You should take steps to build knowledge base. By following a set of newspapers and magazines on a consistent basis, you will be able to grasp the reality. The obstacles can be overcome by planning in a very efficient manner. Instead of investing all your money in high growth funds, you should diversify the portfolio. Even though a fund performs well for many years, there is no guarantee that it will deliver the same results in the coming years. Hence, you should invest in various funds to minimize the risk and maximize the earning potential.<br />
As you care for the money, no one will take care for you. You will know your short-term and long-term financial needs. Hence, there should be proper planning to save money. If you do not have plans, you will fail.<br />
<b>Spend less than you earn</b><br />
You should always spend less than the money earned by you. If you spend more than the earnings, you will land in debts. If you are purchasing goods, you should shop around and choose the best place so that you will not only get quality goods but will also make great savings.<br />
The budgeting is the key to managing financial affairs. You should have a budget for various categories. There should be a budget for charity as well. The money that you share with others will give you back. This is natural law.<br />
There is a difference between wants and needs. All wants are not needs. If you need something badly, you should go for it as per the availability of funds. To cut down spending, you are advised to use cash. If you go for plastic money, you are prone to spend without any cap. Hence, you should spend wisely. The spending should be calculated with time. If you have non-productive time which can spend, you can afford to wait.<br />
<br />
<b>Personal finance</b><br />
To meet your needs in future, you should have strict financial discipline. The spending should be done very wisely. If you are investing in shares, you should be aware of the book value of the stock. There will be fluctuations based on the market sentiments. If you purchase stocks of reputed companies at a lower price, you can reap benefits. There will be benefits in the long run.<br />
You should be aware of the factors that contribute to your credit score. To manage better credit score, the loan installments should be paid as per the due date. As you go through the credit score, you should bring discrepancy to the notice of the credit reporting agency. You should go for loans if there is an absolute necessity. The repayment should be done as per the due date. If you fail to repay the installment, you will not only pay the penalty but also get a negative impact on the credit score.<br />
<br />
<b>How to save money?</b><br />
<a href="https://plus.google.com/+TomSirois">TOM SIROIS</a> explains various ways to save money. If the income is not consumed immediately by buying goods and services, it will be saved. There is a difference between saving and savings. With saving, there will be an increase in one’s assets. The saving will take place over a period.<br />
Saving is considered as a flow variable. ‘Savings’ is a part of one’s assets. It is deposited in the savings account. Savings will exist one at a time. You should understand the fact that it is stock variable.<br />
The disposable money is the money that is available after spending and paying income tax. The state of economy will be gauged through the available disposable personal income. It is one of the key economic indicators. The personal income minus income tax payments is disposable money.<br />
You should have confidence in saving money. You should be aware of the public sentiment as well. The consumer confidence is measured by the US Consumer Confidence Index (CCI). The optimism expressed by consumers on the state of the economy will be noticed through the CCI. Consumers express through saving and spending measures.<br />
The Consumer Sentiment Index (CSI) is a consumer confidence index which is published by University of Michigan. The value of the index is 100 which is normalized in the year 1964.<br />
<br />
<b>Objectives of the Index</b><br />
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<a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/tomsirois">TOM SIROIS</a> stresses the need to understand the terminology used in economic circles so that you will be able to understand the latest concepts very easily. As you follow the news very closely, you will have the capability to understand and forecast changes in the national economy.<br />
You will be able to understand the right means to save money. You will follow the best methods to invest so that there will be gains in the long-term. There should be a long-term strategy on savings. The investment made in fixed deposits, mutual funds, gold, shares and debentures should be done as per the market conditions.<br />
The keen observation of market sentiment will help you in this direction. By being able to understand economic principles, it is possible to invest in a systematic way, and all your needs will be fulfilled. TOM SIROIS offers simple but effective solutions to overcome the financial crisis. The<br />
management of money and resources should be done in the best possible way so that you will not land in bankruptcy.<br />
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<b>Additional Links:</b><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11466693234665617588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7028277656181502889.post-52105682957461718742016-11-14T21:30:00.000-05:002016-11-14T21:30:34.874-05:00If you fail to plan, you are planning to fail: BKYes, a great quote from Ben Franklin that relates to pretty much every aspect of life.<br />
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Here is a great article supporting this advice: <a href="http://www.forbes.com/sites/janetnovack/2014/04/07/8-retirement-questions-a-50-something-couple-needs-to-answer/?google_editors_picks=true" target="_blank">8 Retirement Questions a 50-Something Couple Needs To Answer</a>.<br />
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If you are "coupled" and in your 50s, at least have this conversation w/ your significant other today.<br />
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Thoughts?<br />
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Tom Sirois<br />
Great Barrington, MAAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15586888987864426986noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7028277656181502889.post-73472458347696809692016-11-05T12:36:00.001-04:002016-11-05T12:36:04.004-04:00Why choose the lesser of two evils?<div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #333333; font-family: source_sans_proregular, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin-bottom: 10px;">
Many claim this election is the “most important of our lifetime,” but I am not convinced. I strongly believe 2020 will be much more consequential because voters will lose their confidence in our government. If you are an observer of “social mood,” it is not surprising that this year we are faced with the choice before us: The Politician v. The Outsider.</div>
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Hillary Clinton is everything one loves and hates in a politician. She holds herself as a “champion for women, children, and the underserved” while using every means necessary to profit from her (and her husband’s) stature in our society. This election has revealed Clinton’s ability to profit personally from her family’s charity work by selling government favors to foreign contributors. Yes, this may be “legal,” but it does not pass the smell test to me and many Americans are repulsed by her lack of morality.</div>
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Donald Trump is simply the vessel to which many Americans are pouring their hatred and disgust for politicians. Evidently, this hatred and disgust are pretty strong since they are willing to overlook the many (and there are many) morally reprehensible displays of disgusting behavior from this man. I do not see the electorate’s rejection of government, and its current out of touch politicians going away anytime soon, but my hope is Mr. Trump will.</div>
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No matter who is elected in this cycle, I feel there will be little change in how things operate in Washington. At this point, the way our government has been run for decades will still be the order of the day: more deficits, more inflation, and more (senseless) wars to name a few. Our country needs to understand simple economics: we cannot afford our government any longer. This lack of economic realism can be exhibited by the way our government collects taxes where a small fraction of citizens pay for the majority of government spending (with borrowing making up the difference); this creates the illusion that government services are “free.” Today, less than 15 percent of the population pay for more than 70 percent of all income taxes. If the cost of our government was equally supported by everybody, each would pay $55,000 per year. Do you think you, your family and friends would support our government if we had to pony that up each year? But much of this election has been this discussion of voters wanting more government services: free college, free healthcare, cheap mortgages, etc. This is wrong; we cannot and should not live at the expense of our neighbors. Our government deliberately hides the true cost of our government to our citizens resulting in the mentality: We can simply vote and make someone else pay.</div>
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The next president may have different approaches, as each has campaigned on, but I believe both potential candidates will utilize the government to “fix” our problems. This will cast the die for the next four years and sow the seeds for our country to ultimately lose confidence in our government. This will be more painful than we can imagine, but it will be necessary for us as a nation to realize government was never intended, nor does it belong, central to our lives. Though it will not be fair, whoever is president (and his or her party) will be blamed for this crisis. The consequence will be a rejection of this political party AND the Government in general. These candidates are the result of our society looking to solve our problems through the lens of politics.</div>
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At this time, I am NOT voting for either mainstream candidates because by doing so, I am endorsing the way our government is run, and we cannot afford it any longer. If I DO vote, it will be for Independent candidate Gary Johnson. He is a Libertarian, and I strongly believe MORE individual freedom will result in MORE prosperity for our country.</div>
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The main consequence of this election is that it will lay the groundwork for the next round in 2020 — assuming America still has elections by then.</div>
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Tom Sirois</div>
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Stockbridge</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15586888987864426986noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7028277656181502889.post-13216600325052544052016-08-10T08:54:00.000-04:002016-08-10T09:03:54.298-04:00<h1 id="article-headline" style="background: 0px 0px rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #35383d; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 45px; font-stretch: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: -0.03em; line-height: 52px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<a href="http://www.marketwatch.com/story/newly-released-emails-detail-ties-between-clinton-foundation-state-department-2016-08-09?link=MW_latest_news">Newly released emails detail ties between Clinton Foundation, State Department</a></h1>
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I am not a big Donald Trump supporter for many reasons, but I have several reasons I will NEVER support Hillary Clinton for President of the United States; here is the latest:</div>
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Mrs. Clinton, as Secretary of State, used her family's "Foundation" to receive donations in exchange for favors by the US Government. The list is vast, but there are many examples in this latest revelation of emails. It seems Mrs. Clinton's right-hand person, Huma Abedin, who now works for the campaign was able to achieve a "special designation" that allowed her to work at the State Department AND at the Clinton Foundation. </div>
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Just three months into her tenure at the State Department, the Foundation went to work.</div>
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This is very sad for our country. I think one of our Founding Fathers said it best:</div>
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<i>"In these sentiments, Sir, I agree to this Constitution, with all its faults, — if they are such; because I think a general Government necessary for us, and there is no form of government but what may be a blessing to the people, if well administered; and I believe, farther, that this is likely to be well administered for a course of years, and can only end in despotism, as other forms have done before it, when the people shall become so corrupted as to need despotic government, being incapable of any other."</i></div>
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-Ben Franklin at the Constitutional Convention (June 1787)</div>
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Tom Sirois</div>
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Great Barrington, MA</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15586888987864426986noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7028277656181502889.post-36423048429783600882016-03-16T08:38:00.000-04:002016-03-16T09:28:35.393-04:00Madness in March<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Madness in March</b></div>
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Yes, it is that time of year when College Basketball fans (and gamblers) get to take out their bracket and choose who they think will win round by round and ultimately the national championship. I am not sure which I am more annoyed with the fact that the basketball that is played is not as interesting to me or the fact that fans and non-fans take so much time to prepare their bracket challenges and bet on the final victor.</div>
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Though I love basketball, college hoops have gotten much less of my attention. Maybe it is because the <a href="http://pickandpop.net/2016/03/why-the-ncaa-has-gone-3-crazy/">NCAA has gone 3-crazy</a>, but I suspect it has lost it's the charm for me because College Basketball (and many other college sports) have become a very big business.</div>
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Check out this very interesting infographic below or this link: <a href="http://tomsirois.tumblr.com/post/141142337789">March Madness</a>. Make no mistake this is a billion (with a B) industry that profits on the back of "student-athletes". For example, interested in buying a Denzel Valentine jersey, maybe the Bahamian native Oklahoma's Buddy Hield's? Well when you drop 50 bucks down, please don't kid yourself that these players see any of this money. That is the problem in my eyes. All the media companies, paraphernalia providers and colleges greatly profit on the back of the players (which is the reason we watch!).</div>
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Of course, the tournament is littered with <a href="http://blog.credit.com/2016/03/9-march-madness-horror-stories-138922/">March Madness Horror Stories</a> that result in a fan's personal finance knowledge to be challenged. I would add to that many workers are less productive during this time; taking time off and/or watching games while at work. And I suspect it has much to do with the fact that they are gambling on their choices in the bracket.</div>
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My advice? Watch and enjoy the game, even fill out a bracket or two (but don't wager on it), but this is really the time you should be <a href="http://berkshirehillsfinancial.com/filing-taxes-not-march-madness/" target="_blank">gathering your financial information to get ready to file your taxes by April 15th!</a></div>
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BTW, I pick Michigan State. They have great talent on their team, but I think Coach Izzo is one of the best and will bring them to another title.</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15586888987864426986noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7028277656181502889.post-11833556909633567012016-02-21T09:48:00.002-05:002016-02-21T09:48:26.164-05:00Tom Sirois on Financial Stability<h2 style="text-align: center;">
Tom Sirois</h2>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
Financial Stability</h3>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "helvetica"; font-size: 16px; line-height: 26px;">"As the westernmost county in Massachusetts, the Berkshires comprise about 12% of the state’s landmass but only 2% of the population. As such, it is the 2</span><span style="background-color: white; border: 0px; font-family: "helvetica"; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: inherit; line-height: 26px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">nd </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "helvetica"; font-size: 16px; line-height: 26px;">most rural county in the state. The 32 towns have a total population of 130,000, which is predominantly white, has a small but growing Hispanic population (3.7% reported, but anecdotally estimated to be much higher), and 3% African-American. The population also tends to be older than statewide: 19% of Berkshire residents are over 65 compared to an average of 14% statewide (US Census). Of those who are 65 and older, 57% are considered poor or low income compared to 42% statewide (MA CHIP)" - <a href="http://www.communityhealthprograms.org/about-chp/facts-and-figures/">Community Health Programs</a></span></blockquote>
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Most of the jobs in and around the Berkshires of Massachusetts are seasonal temporary work. This means when the season ends, so do the paychecks and sources of income for many blue collar working families.<br />
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Most of the seasonal jobs available to the citizens of this area are low income as is, which further contributes to the depression of the state average wage. 29% of this depression stems from this problem.<br />
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24 percent, this is how much lower wages are in this area versus the rest of the state of Massachusetts, contributing to a higher poverty rate than the majority of the state.<br />
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The cost of living is 126 percent higher than the surrounding areas, and this further contributes to the economical state in which the residents live.<br />
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This is why financial stability has never been more important.<br />
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You can turn these negatives into positives and stability for your household and way of life with the simple guidance and tools that Berkshire Hills Financial can give you.<br />
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Take advantage of our services to ensure you come out of your seasonal job with a comfortable cushion of savings, investments, and security.<br />
<br />
Contact:<br />
Tom Sirois<br />
Berkshire Hills Financial<br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16.12px;">314 Main St #21, Great Barrington, MA 01230</span><br />
<a class="fl r-iWeu_ISymMAA" data-number="+18448617292" data-rtid="iWeu_ISymMAA" data-ved="0ahUKEwji54jGjInLAhXGlh4KHQ3mDG8QkAgIejAS" href="https://www.blogger.com/null" jsaction="r.oVdbr2mIpA8" jsl="$t t-CuUqPxWI7dk;$x 0;" style="background-color: white; color: #1a0dab; cursor: pointer; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16.12px;" title="Call via Hangouts">(844) 861-7292</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7028277656181502889.post-31636831488569384282016-01-02T08:41:00.003-05:002016-01-02T08:41:26.651-05:00The Three Skills You Need to Be Successful in Life<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAmvTyKAYUKXum29D1gN1GJ8Crk3UUFA2IVQr7-9Cp2JjaTDMywuMloj5GfeuRaKHz3TW_6SOJs4_dpvIbjWqFhHgrjgQS0OT-SyMy0uNiJ9QTRQrPWQ2G9IFb-RmGfE-KOWPFUHyePfXD/s1600/YourLifeYourSuccess_iTunes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAmvTyKAYUKXum29D1gN1GJ8Crk3UUFA2IVQr7-9Cp2JjaTDMywuMloj5GfeuRaKHz3TW_6SOJs4_dpvIbjWqFhHgrjgQS0OT-SyMy0uNiJ9QTRQrPWQ2G9IFb-RmGfE-KOWPFUHyePfXD/s200/YourLifeYourSuccess_iTunes.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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Someone I have admired from afar is<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mark_M._Ford" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.298039); background-image: linear-gradient(rgba(68, 68, 68, 0) 50%, rgba(68, 68, 68, 0.247059) 50%); background-position: 0px 1.15em; background-repeat: repeat-x; background-size: 1em 2px; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #444444; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: none 0px; padding: 0px 0px 0.15em; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"> Mark Ford</a>. He is a very impressive author, publisher and entrepreneur (among other things). From his recent published <a href="http://www.dailywealth.com/3168/these-are-the-three-skills-you-need-to-be-successful-in-life" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.298039); background-image: linear-gradient(rgba(68, 68, 68, 0) 50%, rgba(68, 68, 68, 0.247059) 50%); background-position: 0px 1.15em; background-repeat: repeat-x; background-size: 1em 2px; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #444444; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: none 0px; padding: 0px 0px 0.15em; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">writing</a>, he has shared the skills “you” need to be successful, but I think they should be skills that are taught to our children at an early age:</div>
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Thinking Well.</div>
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Speaking Well.</div>
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Writing Well.</div>
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I will take the time over the next few weeks to expand on each of these. What are your thoughts?</div>
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Tom Sirois</div>
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Great Barrington, MA</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15586888987864426986noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7028277656181502889.post-45246978415596929402015-12-29T08:19:00.000-05:002015-12-29T08:19:11.121-05:00Like Hillary Clinton, bet you kids with Student Loans don't know this:We all know that many politicians are bought and paid for by the "bankers", but no one is MORE beholden to the "bankers" than Mrs. Clinton.<br />
<br />
For Hillary Clinton to state she is on the side of middle class Americans, or middle class students is simply a lie.<br />
<br />
There has been many studies that prove the rise in College Tuition is in direct relation to to availability of College Loans. See here: <a href="https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=2&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0ahUKEwik-9fXkYHKAhUFSiYKHdzjAOwQFggjMAE&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.nber.org%2Fchapters%2Fc13711.pdf&usg=AFQjCNFHlcAQX_dJxskcx66HBU_6dXnXfQ&sig2=BuJP5QLEFfdwLbdJEcWFaQ&bvm=bv.110151844,d.eWE" target="_blank">Accounting for the Rise in College Tuition</a>. So, yes, I believe if we stop offering student loans, the cost of educating our citizens will go down.<br />
<br />
Mrs Clinton, as Senator from New York, is responsible in<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bankruptcy_Abuse_Prevention_and_Consumer_Protection_Act" target="_blank"> introducing legislation that was ultimately passed</a>, which will insure no student loans can be discharged from bankruptcy proceedings. Essentially, students who borrow money to go to college will become enslaved to the lenders.<br />
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Washington is way to corrupt and the press is complacent in covering up the truth. I see many articles that will demonize Trump or Carson (two whom have never served in Washington), but Hillary is a hero. I firmly believe that the destruction of our American middle class, culture and way of life is in direct relation to the increase in power of corrupt politicians in Washington.<br />
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I look forward to the day all Americans realize that.<br />
<br />
Tom Sirois<br />
Great Barrington, MAAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15586888987864426986noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7028277656181502889.post-21138326838946434232015-10-22T07:00:00.001-04:002015-10-22T07:00:28.578-04:00(Former) Support Becomes ResistanceWe have had a nice rally from the September lows, but now we see that former support (2039) is resistance.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nPiRPlMQHC8/VijBg6MQvVI/AAAAAAAAIv4/Q06ej5QOH90/s1600/2015-10-22%2B06_54_29-TC2000%2B%25C2%25AE%2BVersion%2B16.0.5765.24948.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="215" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nPiRPlMQHC8/VijBg6MQvVI/AAAAAAAAIv4/Q06ej5QOH90/s400/2015-10-22%2B06_54_29-TC2000%2B%25C2%25AE%2BVersion%2B16.0.5765.24948.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">SP500 running into resistance</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br />
Many trapped long stock holders may decide to exit at this time and provide downward pressure.<br />
<br />
Good time to sell some of your long holdings.<br />
<br />
Thomas Sirois<br />
Great Barrington, MAAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15586888987864426986noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7028277656181502889.post-78109528951746187202015-10-14T06:46:00.000-04:002015-10-14T06:46:14.167-04:00Excellent "speech" about <a href="http://www.ted.com/talks/julian_treasure_how_to_speak_so_that_people_want_to_listen?language=en" target="_blank">How to speak so that people want to listen</a>.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
This speaker not only tells you what NOT to do, but also what TO do.<br />
<br />
Tom Sirois<br />
Great Barrington, MA<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15586888987864426986noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7028277656181502889.post-46271644530896681012015-05-12T08:31:00.001-04:002015-05-12T08:31:37.438-04:00And why do we put up with this?<p>A <a href="https://firstlook.org/theintercept/2015/05/07/congress-argues-cant-investigated-insider-trading/">recent article</a> on firstlook.org shows how Congress has argued that it is OKAY for them to profit from insider information; not just have access to insider information, but to TRADE and PROFIT from that information.</p><br /><p>Corruption is coming to a head and it is soon (within 1 year) that I beleive the tipping point will be reached.</p><br /><p>What do you think?</p><br /><p>Tom Sirois</p><br /><p>Great Barrington, MA</p>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15586888987864426986noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7028277656181502889.post-82988699441762108812015-03-25T06:45:00.000-04:002015-03-25T06:45:05.440-04:00Student Loans<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhggs8wEjiioYvmy7HIUr8NO75X-ZWRRKcKnAO4-D0buOuqTkGiTqAD5frA9MUY0sG5HtVfZi_M1cIDnfNktqY1UkKoYGeKq93vm81RRMLSnL1Ijg2kx00SaqJL-HsZcAPuuIQ0jXq2ssM-/s1600/student-loan-default.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhggs8wEjiioYvmy7HIUr8NO75X-ZWRRKcKnAO4-D0buOuqTkGiTqAD5frA9MUY0sG5HtVfZi_M1cIDnfNktqY1UkKoYGeKq93vm81RRMLSnL1Ijg2kx00SaqJL-HsZcAPuuIQ0jXq2ssM-/s1600/student-loan-default.jpg" height="224" width="320" /></a></div>
There is ALOT I have to say about student loans, and I thought I would start with a very nice resource for students that have loans is this page at <a href="http://www.reddit.com/r/personalfinance/wiki/studentloans">reddit.com</a>.<br />
<br />
This is mostly a resource page for recent graduates, but it may also help anyone who is considering borrowing money to go to school.<br />
<br />
The things you need to consider are many, but essentially: Is it worth mortgaging your future to get a diploma? Will that diploma result in life satisfaction for you?<br />
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Take a look at the resources and tell me what you think. I will be stopping here more frequently w/ my thoughts and advice on Student Loans.<br />
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Would love to hear your thoughts.<br />
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Tom Sirois<br />
Great Barrington, MA 0<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15586888987864426986noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7028277656181502889.post-29107523714007777492015-03-23T16:42:00.001-04:002015-03-23T16:42:18.995-04:00Why Spend, Save and Share?<p>Yes, I believe it is important children learn to share, but do we really NEED to have that be monetary and incorporate it into financial literacy? I think not.</p><br /><p>The latest book: <a href="http://ronlieber.com/books/the-opposite-of-spoiled/">The Opposite of Spoiled</a> discussed, at length the need to have your children understand being charitible is very important.</p><br /><p>I think it is best for children to understand that many social "ills" are remedied through their tax dollars (forced sharing), so they MUST be diligent when looking into organizations they choose to support financially.</p><br /><p>What do you think?</p><br /><p>Tom Sirois</p><br /><p>Great Barrington, MA</p>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15586888987864426986noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7028277656181502889.post-71879649779042698842014-04-26T07:41:00.000-04:002014-04-26T07:41:26.629-04:00Who ends up with more? (A chart every college graduate should see)<br />
<li style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;">Susan, who invests $5,000 per year only from ages 25 to 35 (10 years)</li>
<li style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;">Bill, who also invests $5,000 per year, but from ages 35 to 65 (30 years)</li>
<li style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;">And Chris, who also invests $5,000 per year, but from ages 25 to 65 (40 years)</li>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;"><br /><br />See:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM89AkuWDBsqmOPjDMfrL4aqEJnco377bkTfB14YZtcmjWNt4mXU7wlbXusrcexKkHcVqUMNPcPHjsMw_3Rzw3fQ0ZNJOK3e_uR-l9yqwjjECVBuM-Qdi3Mdw6ro4ICHj_IupNo1b5NKQB/s1600/screen-shot-2014-03-20-at-6.11.30-pm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM89AkuWDBsqmOPjDMfrL4aqEJnco377bkTfB14YZtcmjWNt4mXU7wlbXusrcexKkHcVqUMNPcPHjsMw_3Rzw3fQ0ZNJOK3e_uR-l9yqwjjECVBuM-Qdi3Mdw6ro4ICHj_IupNo1b5NKQB/s1600/screen-shot-2014-03-20-at-6.11.30-pm.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;">Compound Interest is a miracle.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;">The rest of the article can be read here: <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/compound-interest-retirement-funds-2014-3">http://www.businessinsider.com/compound-interest-retirement-funds-2014-3</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif;">Tom Sirois</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif;">Great Barrington, MA</span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15586888987864426986noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7028277656181502889.post-38266825194276223552014-04-18T07:31:00.000-04:002014-04-18T07:41:06.366-04:00What To Do When You Win the Lottery<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-I8lwGOTMevw/U1EM5ouuy9I/AAAAAAAAHlk/zfeTJ2wx6dA/s1600/100947051-175744308.600x400.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-I8lwGOTMevw/U1EM5ouuy9I/AAAAAAAAHlk/zfeTJ2wx6dA/s1600/100947051-175744308.600x400.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
I am always fascinated by folks who win the lottery, and later declare bankruptcy. <a href="http://www.marketwatch.com/story/why-lottery-winners-go-bankrupt-1301002181742" target="_blank">There are many reasons for it</a>, but I suspect that MOST lottery players are not too savvy with financial matters, so the lack of financial management skills is the kiss of death if they are "lucky" enough to win.<br />
<br />
I just came across a very nice slideshow presentation from CNBC (not always the best place to get financial advice) that has some great advice if your do win the lottery:<br />
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<a href="http://www.cnbc.com/id/100949434" target="_blank">What to do when you win the lottery (via CNBC).</a></div>
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My particlar favorite is "<a href="http://get%20the%20lump%20sum/" target="_blank">Get the lump sum</a>".</div>
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Tom Sirois</div>
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Great Barrington, MA</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15586888987864426986noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7028277656181502889.post-79459652425016708272013-11-23T07:59:00.001-05:002013-11-23T07:59:12.274-05:00Do you think Social Security is a Ponzi Scheme?Many people describe programs that they do not agree with as "<a href="http://www.sec.gov/answers/ponzi.htm" target="_blank">Ponzi Schemes</a>", but the truth is, many of the programs in our US Government are build similarly (if not exactly) like these schemes we are warned to avoid:<br />
<br />
Click the link to see a brief video:<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/O1K07H0CXUY?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
<a href="http://www.stansberryradio.com/staticHTML/socialsecurity.asp" target="_blank">Social Security IS a Ponzi Scheme</a><br />
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What do you think? I happen to agree.<br />
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Tom Sirois<br />
Great Barrington, MA<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15586888987864426986noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7028277656181502889.post-74104328987736183172013-09-18T07:45:00.000-04:002013-09-18T07:45:01.759-04:00Money and Life Advice from 18 Wealthy and Prominent LeadersHere is a <a href="http://www.entrepreneur.com/article/228239" target="_blank">great graphic from Entrepreneur Magazine</a>, well worth the time paging through. If 10% of this sunk in early in our lives, I believe we would be much happier and wealthier.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Bo_jluPbzG8/UjmSDtOyApI/AAAAAAAAHYo/sUp6O-XvqMM/s1600/0.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Bo_jluPbzG8/UjmSDtOyApI/AAAAAAAAHYo/sUp6O-XvqMM/s320/0.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
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<a href="http://www.entrepreneur.com/article/228239">Click here to go to "Inspiration Station"</a><br />
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Tom Sirois<br />
Great Barrington, MAAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15586888987864426986noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7028277656181502889.post-71091925178836452502012-11-29T09:02:00.000-05:002012-11-29T09:02:25.620-05:00Biggest Money Mistakes Grandparents MakeThis is an excellent article from Grandparents.com<br />
<br />
It tells of the <a href="http://grandparents.com/money-and-work/family-finance/6-common-money-mistakes-grandparents-make#" target="_blank">Biggest Money Mistakes Grandparents Make</a>.<br />
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I would also add two items:<br />
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<ol>
<li>Spending time w/ your Grandchildren helps them understand the value of time and company (rather than "stuff").</li>
<li>Explaining to your Grandchildren "the good old days". There is much in your personal history that would be of great value (financially and otherwise).</li>
</ol>
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Any thoughts?</div>
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Tom Sirois</div>
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Great Barrington, MA</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15586888987864426986noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7028277656181502889.post-60147589871552163562012-10-23T10:12:00.000-04:002012-10-23T10:12:25.144-04:00Halloween: Time for Financial Tricks or Treats?Halloween, like many holidays, can be a great time to teach kid's financial concepts.<br />
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Use your children's natural excitement for dressing up to discuss <a href="http://www.omaha.com/article/20121012/MONEY/710129967/1697" target="_blank">budgeting, cost analysis, counting, etc.</a><br />
<br />
Read the whole article here: <a href="http://www.omaha.com/article/20121012/MONEY/710129967/1697" target="_blank">Teach kids the financial tricks and treats of Halloween</a> .<br />
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Do you use holidays to discuss financial concepts with your kids?<br />
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Tom Sirois<br />
Great Barrington, MAAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15586888987864426986noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7028277656181502889.post-75579278062842597422012-10-18T08:00:00.000-04:002012-10-23T10:12:37.036-04:00Do you know what a "write off" is?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/upifaeK0B5U?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
Do you know people who think they know what they are talking about when it comes to money? It can be a very dangerous approach to take their advice.<br />
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Tom Sirois<br />
Great Barrington, MAAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15586888987864426986noreply@blogger.com0