Search found 325 matches

by Itster
Fri Oct 07, 2022 12:41 pm
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: Is it the drop that scares you or the fear of further drops?
Replies: 114
Views: 8924

Re: Is it the drop that scares you or the fear of further drops?

I'm not overly concerned yet, but for completely the wrong reasons. I thought the pandemic drop was the "this time it's different" scenario. I sold on the way down. I was surprised that the market recovered so quickly -- even with Fed assistance. And actually, I bought back in at a slightly lower level than where I sold out, albeit at a (again slightly) smaller allocation to hedge my risks. Market shot up and I regretted doing anything. So, I was actually hoping for another large drop to get back to where I was, and this helps at least some -- but we're still way over pandemic levels. Nevertheless, it has presented a better opportunity to increase my allocation. If it drops significantly more I'll just add a little more to that. S...
by Itster
Tue Aug 16, 2022 11:20 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Certified Mail for Proof of Claim? [Recalled product reimbursement]
Replies: 52
Views: 1618

Re: BBB Complaint--Effective or Waste of Time?

I've also had mixed results. It's worth a shot if you can't resolve an issue, though.
by Itster
Mon Aug 15, 2022 3:19 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: I buy extended warranties, here's why.
Replies: 105
Views: 11741

Re: I buy extended warranties, here's why.

Depends on the situation for me. When I purchased my son's laptop for school recently, I bought the 3-year rapid on-site service warranty for it. If he just needed an inexpensive laptop for school I probably wouldn't have bothered, but he's enrolled in their Comp Sci / IT program and his learning track could easily be hindered by waiting for computer repairs, a new laptop and/or possible app reinstalls if he spills or breaks something. And it was worth it for the more expensive laptop he needed. I was also able to get a 5% discount on the machine through work which rendered the warranty coverage price worthwhile. Seemed like a no-brainer in that case. Edit: I realize this is more of a full service plan than just an extended warranty.
by Itster
Sat Aug 13, 2022 5:36 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: What frugal thing did you do today?
Replies: 4524
Views: 617415

Re: What frugal thing did you do today?

How’s your back/neck/wrists? Be careful. The reason companies are willing to spring for all that ergonomic stuff is because it’s cheaper than paying all the worker’s comp claims for neck pain and carpal tunnel. Back in the 90’s, it was an everyday thing that people would have to go on disability because their computer was hurting them. Ergonomic workstations fixed all that. I've been working full-time at home since pandemic and wife is hybrid. I work in various places - the kitchen table, the couch, my bed (I do have a folding stand), standing at my kitchen counter - and my wife just uses a folding table and cheap chair she got from work in our spare bedroom. I also severely broke my back in a cycling accident May of '20, which is still an...
by Itster
Sat Aug 13, 2022 4:06 pm
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: Winning the game and investing in Fixed Income
Replies: 272
Views: 37253

Re: Winning the game and investing in Fixed Income

When people says they have 20x or 30x of expenses, is that their base (minimal) expenses or total spending? My understanding is it’s your residual spending need in retirement, i.e., the amount not covered by pension, social security or other known and definite income source. I agree that this is the number that SHOULD be used, though it's not clear to me that "most people" on this forum always use the proper base. I spend $38k a year (lockdown), $45k normally, $75k was my lifetime max. All figures exclude taxes. Cola’d Pension and ss should cover most of that if my expenses are $75k in retirement. But I spent $58k one holiday weekend in the hospital. Insurance covered 99 percent of it but it’s expenses of that kind that tend to i...
by Itster
Sat Aug 13, 2022 11:51 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: What frugal thing did you do today?
Replies: 4524
Views: 617415

Re: What frugal thing did you do today?

When my team started working remotely during the pandemic, most bought and set up nice desk arrangements with multiple monitors at home. I'm still happily using my $20 plastic fold-away TV-dinner table from Wally's. How’s your back/neck/wrists? Be careful. The reason companies are willing to spring for all that ergonomic stuff is because it’s cheaper than paying all the worker’s comp claims for neck pain and carpal tunnel. Back in the 90’s, it was an everyday thing that people would have to go on disability because their computer was hurting them. Ergonomic workstations fixed all that. No big issues yet. I do regularly get up and move around, and I prop up my seating with several pillows at my back to maintain better posture. The height of...
by Itster
Fri Aug 12, 2022 5:29 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Vanguard website succumbs to "Fisher-Price" UI design
Replies: 843
Views: 112407

Re: Vanguard Website

Agree with Broken Man 1999. Websites are moving closer to a one-size-fits-all touch-centric design -- it's much easier to maintain than fully separate desktop vs mobile sites. Give them some time to iron out the kinks and adjust to user feedback. *Hopefully* they will listen to it and improve the user experience over time.
by Itster
Fri Aug 12, 2022 5:20 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: What frugal thing did you do today?
Replies: 4524
Views: 617415

Re: What frugal thing did you do today?

When my team started working remotely during the pandemic, most bought and set up nice desk arrangements with multiple monitors at home. I'm still happily using my $20 plastic fold-away TV-dinner table from Wally's.
by Itster
Fri Aug 12, 2022 10:50 am
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: Vanguard Website Changes-no Select Mutual Funds
Replies: 90
Views: 10461

Re: Vanguard Website Changes-no Select Mutual Funds

There's a general move to make everything touch-screen compatible, and the nature of the beast requires larger elements and more space between them -- which then results in additional navigational steps to view all of the information.

Hopefully they genuinely seek to improve user experience since it involves their website. Since it's a new design, once they have a stable base in place they can make improvements from there. I'd give them some time before declaring the redesign a failure -- but it could take a while. Constructive feedback is a necessary function of that process, though.
by Itster
Tue Jul 26, 2022 4:04 pm
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: TIPS Confession
Replies: 334
Views: 33191

Re: TIPS Confession

Northern Flicker wrote: Tue Jul 26, 2022 3:39 pm
squirrel1963 wrote: Tue Jul 26, 2022 1:40 pm To each their own of course, but I prefer LMP :-)
TIPS ladders and TIPS funds can both be used to implement a liability matching portfolio. The TIPS ladder will match projected expenses mote closely than duration-matched mutual funds, but that does not mean that the ladder will be a closer match to actual expenses.
Since you can't know actual expenses until you get there, how might a fund be more beneficial? How could it cover the gap between projected vs actual expenses?
by Itster
Thu Jul 21, 2022 8:16 pm
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: Treasury Direct Customer Service Horror Stories Have Prevented Me from Buying I-Bonds
Replies: 76
Views: 5677

Re: Treasury Direct Customer Service Horror Stories Have Prevented Me from Buying I-Bonds

Walkure wrote: Thu Jul 21, 2022 4:13 pm
Itster wrote: Thu Jul 21, 2022 3:19 pm I linked a Wells Fargo account and they seem to be the most difficult in completing the form should that happen.
As far as I know, you don't have to get the signature guarantee from the same bank as the linked account. I linked it to a high yield online checking, then did the signature at my local brick and mortar bank.
Thanks, that is good to know. We were unable to have some other form or notary signed at Wells Fargo in the past, so I know they aren't easy to work with in that regard. I do still wish I had opened an account with our local CU and used them for the link first, though.
by Itster
Thu Jul 21, 2022 3:19 pm
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: Treasury Direct Customer Service Horror Stories Have Prevented Me from Buying I-Bonds
Replies: 76
Views: 5677

Re: Treasury Direct Customer Service Horror Stories Have Prevented Me from Buying I-Bonds

I decided against the hassle before this year due to the complaints against the website (I realize that's a little different than customer service complaints). I confess, recency Inflation made me reconsider. :) Those who took the leap back then had much better foresight than I about their eventual worth. I haven't experienced any issues yet. The login and the site itself aren't really that bad. The login keyboard is a bit ... quaint. I am concerned about the account being locked, though. I linked a Wells Fargo account and they seem to be the most difficult in completing the form should that happen. I navigate slowly and deliberately with the hope I'll avoid the great Lock Out, but with the expectation it could happen. If it does, I'll deal...
by Itster
Wed Jul 20, 2022 8:34 am
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Working with a financial advisor
Replies: 37
Views: 4590

Re: Working with a financial advisor

If you already have your strategy in place and are able to manage it, there's less need to continue paying the 1% AUM. You may need a one-time fee service to assist with adjustments to the plan if things turn out differently than expected, etc. That's what I plan to do. It's not always easy to find answers to specific questions you may have without that kind of relationship.
by Itster
Tue Jul 19, 2022 8:32 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Barclays Savings Account pays 0.7%
Replies: 32
Views: 3389

Re: Barclays Savings Account pays 0.7%

Barclays HYSA up to 1.4% now. It's the closest it's been to VMFXX for some time, though still lower. Wow, indeed it is. I still have an online savings account there with a few bucks in it (just to maintain the relationship in case they offer something really compelling). I set up the account to hop into some CD's a decade or so ago. Currently, I am getting 1.80% at Marcus due to a referral bonus and the AARP bump, but absent the referral bonus (which for me expires in early August) this would be a 10bp improvement. And it is 15bps higher than the latest increase by Ally (where I also have an account, but not much in it). Having said all of this, I have recently begun buying short-term treasuries in the secondary market (at Fidelity) with f...
by Itster
Tue Jul 19, 2022 8:06 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Barclays Savings Account pays 0.7%
Replies: 32
Views: 3389

Re: Barclays Savings Account pays 0.7%

Barclays HYSA up to 1.4% now. It's the closest it's been to VMFXX for some time, though still lower.
by Itster
Sat Jul 16, 2022 5:30 pm
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Planning withdrawal order of retirement accounts
Replies: 17
Views: 2321

Re: Planning withdrawal order of retirement accounts

David Jay wrote: Sat Jul 16, 2022 4:29 pm Does your 401K allow for partial distributions after age 59.5? If so, you can roll a portion of your 401K out to a traditional IRA (tIRA) with all options available.

If you did this a year or two in advance you could put your 5 years of living expenses in the tIRA and set it up in short term instruments for those early years of retirement.

I would really not like to see you putting TIPS in your Roth accounts - all growth in those accounts will be tax free so I would try to optimize those accounts with equities.
Edit: It looks like I can do this according to the plan information.
by Itster
Sat Jul 16, 2022 4:15 pm
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Planning withdrawal order of retirement accounts
Replies: 17
Views: 2321

Re: Planning withdrawal order of retirement accounts

For only 4-5 years, I would just hold 5 years expenses in a ST bond fund. A TIPS ladder seems like way too much bother for such a short period. Not to mention it is getting you all turned around about which assets to hold in which accounts. I retired @62 and my plan is to take SS at age 69. I have my spending needs for the remaining 3+ years in a short term bond fund, auto-transferred into my checking account each month. Except that the 401k doesn't have many options. They aren't terrible -- on the fixed side are index total bond, 1-10 yr TIPS fund, and a not-so-great SV -- but no short term selections outside the SV. That's it. So even if I wanted to utilize a ST bond fund the SV is my only option there. That's why I'm turned around as on...
by Itster
Sat Jul 16, 2022 3:17 pm
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Planning withdrawal order of retirement accounts
Replies: 17
Views: 2321

Re: Planning withdrawal order of retirement accounts

heyyou wrote: Sat Jul 16, 2022 11:21 am Having retired early and delayed SS in order to do Roth conversions to whittle down the traditional IRA (tIRA), these days it is comforting to not worry about big RMDs nudging me into a higher tax bracket. I like storing my equity funds in the Roth IRA (RIRA) with my slow growth bond funds in my tIRA. Following those Boglehead suggestions, improved my retirement life. Thank you to Celia for the encouragement and advice on those Roth conversions.
The problem for me is that I can only purchase TIPS ladder rungs in the IRAs at this point, so I have most of my equities in the 401k. But I'm just not sure this is the best strategy. It does seem backwards from an allocation perspective.
by Itster
Fri Jul 15, 2022 1:17 pm
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Planning withdrawal order of retirement accounts
Replies: 17
Views: 2321

Re: Planning withdrawal order of retirement accounts

Retirement finances are wonderfully complex, and will offer you many opportunities for mental exercises. (The delights of selecting a Medicare system/provider are a mere foretaste of future challenges.) The optimal order of withdrawal will depend on many factors, such as ... To get some data for your planning, create Social Security accounts in order to 1) check that your accounts are not being hacked; 2) what your primary insurance amounts (PIA) are now and over the next few years; and 3) make sure you both have 40 quarters recorded in order to qualify for Medicare & SS. Oh ... do you have kids who would qualify for Child in Care? You don't mention 529's... https://secure.login.gov/ Next, play with Open Social Security to maximize ret...
by Itster
Fri Jul 15, 2022 11:34 am
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Planning withdrawal order of retirement accounts
Replies: 17
Views: 2321

Re: Planning withdrawal order of retirement accounts

My understanding is that it's better from a tax standpoint to withdraw first from taxable accounts, then from the 401k/SEP, then from the Roths. This is the standard advice, but it's not necessarily the best for everyone, especially those who retire well before drawing Social Security. A couple with no other income can withdraw from or do Roth conversions on about $110K EVERY YEAR and pay an average of less than 10% federal income tax, accounting for the standard deduction. So if you retire at say 65 and start SS at 70*, you can withdraw/convert over half a million at very low tax rates. In addition, keep in mind the step-up at death for taxable accounts. That means that for many it's better to draw down tax-deferred accounts first, but be...
by Itster
Fri Jul 15, 2022 11:06 am
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Planning withdrawal order of retirement accounts
Replies: 17
Views: 2321

Re: Planning withdrawal order of retirement accounts

My understanding is that it's better from a tax standpoint to withdraw first from taxable accounts, then from the 401k/SEP, then from the Roths. This is the standard advice, but it's not necessarily the best for everyone, especially those who retire well before drawing Social Security. A couple with no other income can withdraw from or do Roth conversions on about $110K EVERY YEAR and pay an average of less than 10% federal income tax, accounting for the standard deduction. So if you retire at say 65 and start SS at 70*, you can withdraw/convert over half a million at very low tax rates. In addition, keep in mind the step-up at death for taxable accounts. That means that for many it's better to draw down tax-deferred accounts first, but be...
by Itster
Fri Jul 15, 2022 10:22 am
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Planning withdrawal order of retirement accounts
Replies: 17
Views: 2321

Re: Planning withdrawal order of retirement accounts

Much like you contributed to a mix of accounts each year, it is probably going to be best to withdraw some mix each year. The actual mix will depend on your balances and your kong term goals. Figuring out the mix to contribute was probably easier because you just hit the limits for the tax deferred and then defaulted to taxable. Now you have to figure it out for yourself. Those with great savings who try to put off withdrawing from traditional accounts may find themselves facing a large tax bill when RMDs start if they haven't done some planning to draw down those balances either via withdrawals or Roth conversions. Does that render a TIPS ladder less useful, if I'm not going to use them directly? It's also my understanding that it's bette...
by Itster
Fri Jul 15, 2022 10:17 am
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Planning withdrawal order of retirement accounts
Replies: 17
Views: 2321

Re: Planning withdrawal order of retirement accounts

retired@50 wrote: Fri Jul 15, 2022 9:59 am Have you considered rolling the 401k over to a traditional IRA or a "Rollover IRA". Or, are you not retired yet?

That way, you could invest the tax-deferred dollars any way you'd like.

Regards,
That's correct -- I'm still working and 5-10 years away from that age range, so I'm pretty late organizing my actual retirement strategy.
by Itster
Fri Jul 15, 2022 9:54 am
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Planning withdrawal order of retirement accounts
Replies: 17
Views: 2321

Planning withdrawal order of retirement accounts

DW and I have the typical variety of retirement accounts -- 2 Roths, Her SEP, my 401K, small pension. I'd like to create a TIPS ladder for ages 62-66/67 in our IRAs as a safety net between my minimum age to claim SS and FRA. (DW is now stay-at-home, so her retirement age doesn't factor.) But actually utilizing the TIPS ladder in the IRAs would mean withdrawing from the Roths ahead of the 401k, unless I simply let the TIPS mature and withdraw from the 401k instead (with a mix of equities and bonds/stable value). My understanding is that it's better from a tax standpoint to withdraw first from taxable accounts, then from the 401k/SEP, then from the Roths. Is it even worth creating the TIPS ladder in this case? Or is it reasonable to let them ...
by Itster
Fri Jul 15, 2022 9:35 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Google Pixel 6. Opinions?
Replies: 59
Views: 6236

Re: Google Pixel 6. Opinions?

I like mine just fine. The fingerprint reader was aggravating for a while, but I seem to finally have the hang of it -- or I'm just getting used to it after 8 months. The battery life is far superior to any previous phone I've had. Overall experience is similar to the 3XL but I have more space, so I don't need to clean up photos so much.
by Itster
Mon Jul 11, 2022 9:49 pm
Forum: Forum Issues and Administration
Topic: Hidden thread bumping
Replies: 25
Views: 3265

Re: Hidden thread bumping

I did this once recently -- deleted a recent post and posted something else. I realized after submission that I repeated what someone else already wrote a few posts prior and was a little embarrassed. So I deleted it and reworded the new post to agree with the previous poster. I did that rather than edit my original one to prevent it from being quoted before I could finish the edit. But, I haven't made a habit of it.

Edit: Not sure if this is the same thing that's going on here.
by Itster
Mon Jul 11, 2022 3:03 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Is home alarm system worth it?
Replies: 51
Views: 4588

Re: Is home alarm system worth it?

sls239 wrote: Mon Jul 11, 2022 2:21 pm Most burglaries are done by people who have inside information.

Criminals do risk assessment too and shoplifting is a much safer choice in the absence of specific information.

So I’ve never seen the value to an intruder alarm myself, but some people have say in-laws who blab and…

But the water fire ones- that may be worth it on its own.
Yeah, for my neighbors, when they were new in the neighborhood they happened to mention in conversation they were going away for a few days. Came back and ... brand new TV was gone. Could easily be that someone just overheard their plans.

It's also important to note that an alarm system is no guarantee of protection. It only works as well as it works, when it works. :)
by Itster
Mon Jul 11, 2022 2:03 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Is home alarm system worth it?
Replies: 51
Views: 4588

Re: Is home alarm system worth it?

Years ago I actually worked in the central station for an alarm company. I only recall one actual break-in during my time there. It was 4th of July, the residents were away on vacation, and a young neighborhood friend of one of the residents knew they were gone. I saw the break-in activity as the different zones were tripped: Basement window/glass, basement motion, motion on basement stairs, door to basement, family room motion. I called the police a second time to notify them it really appeared to be a break-in, they rushed to the site and caught the person. You could look at this several ways. Since it was the only break-in I recall while working there, you might think that's such a low number that having an alarm system isn't worth it. O...
by Itster
Mon Jul 11, 2022 1:27 pm
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Vanguard Personal Advisor opinions
Replies: 56
Views: 10696

Re: Vanguard Personal Advisor opinions

Keep it simple... Use a diversified 3 or 4 fund portfolio, and you'll have no need to pay for outside advice. Many years ago, when I first started using Vanguard, I had my own Flagship representative and had the option of free portfolio asset allocation consultations on a periodic basis. I did it twice, just to see what they would recommend. I received a recommendation for Total Stock Market, Total International Stock, and Total Bond Market both times. I'm a DIY investor, as I don't believe anyone cares as much about my money as I do. So I do my own research, and long ago settled on Jack Bogle's approach. I do use Total Stock Market, but I'm in a high income tax state with taxable accounts, so I also use state muni bonds, along with two ot...
by Itster
Mon Jul 11, 2022 1:18 pm
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Vanguard Personal Advisor opinions
Replies: 56
Views: 10696

Re: Vanguard Personal Advisor opinions

BL wrote: Mon Jul 11, 2022 12:57 pm I would only consider PAS if I wanted assistance, not any local "advisors" (salespeople) that I have ever heard of or their companies.

I understand PAS is now offering additional funds, beyond their classic 4 low-ER funds) that are more costly (higher ERs) and probably don't add any benefits. That disappoints me.
You can get referrals to sidestep having to go with a local unknown, if you absolutely need consultation.
by Itster
Mon Jul 11, 2022 1:12 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Is home alarm system worth it?
Replies: 51
Views: 4588

Re: Is home alarm system worth it?

We had a Simplisafe alarm at our previous home and it worked really well. I was happy to have it and glad to purchase another for our new home. We've had all kinds of problems with the new one, so I regret getting it. I won't get into all the issues. I realize it's probably a hit-or-miss situation, but if you do spend the money just to have it not work half the time, it's not worth it. Granted, Simplisafe is a cheaper option. I will say that the front camera seems to work well, though, so it's not all bad.
by Itster
Mon Jul 11, 2022 11:34 am
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Vanguard Personal Advisor opinions
Replies: 56
Views: 10696

Re: Vanguard Personal Advisor opinions

Chicagoprof wrote: Mon Jul 11, 2022 10:59 am The do offer more than just the portfolio: Advice on budgeting for retirement; retirement timeline; withdrawal rates and strategies; tax loss harvesting; some estate planning advice. Mileage will differ on how useful you find the advice. I've found it helpful.
Thank you. I will at least consider it, along with a referral I hope to have soon for an advisor in my area.
by Itster
Mon Jul 11, 2022 10:51 am
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Vanguard Personal Advisor opinions
Replies: 56
Views: 10696

Re: Vanguard Personal Advisor opinions

So I'm a little confused after reading through this thread. I've also been considering AS from Vanguard (I don't meet the $500k personal service at this point because my 401k is elsewhere). But I could really use assistance structuring a full retirement plan and not just be guided to a 4-fund portfolio. Maybe that's too much to expect for just .3, which I could understand. Is there any point to trying VAS for this or is there a better solution?
by Itster
Sat Jul 09, 2022 6:42 pm
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: Trading Treasuries (nominal and TIPS)
Replies: 4107
Views: 455652

Re: Trading Treasuries (nominal and TIPS)

So if I wanted to create a TIPS ladder for ages 62-70, would the estimated SSA payment at 70 (plus maybe an extra grand/mo since it increases each year) be a good gauge for how much to fund per rung? Yes that is exactly what I did first, I just added enough to give me the equivalent SSA benefits from 61 to 70. I also added extra to cover for the higher medical expenses before medicare. And what's the best approach if most of my funds sit in a 401k? Start funding rungs for ages 62-66 in my IRA and put the remainder in the 401k into a TIPS fund until it can be converted (then convert that into rungs 67-70 at that time)? It's a 2-10 year duration fund. Or start with the later rungs in the IRA (or does it really matter)? If necessary, I could ...
by Itster
Sat Jul 09, 2022 11:22 am
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: Trading Treasuries (nominal and TIPS)
Replies: 4107
Views: 455652

Re: Trading Treasuries (nominal and TIPS)

So if I wanted to create a TIPS ladder for ages 62-70, would the estimated SSA payment at 70 (plus maybe an extra grand/mo since it increases each year) be a good gauge for how much to fund per rung? And what's the best approach if most of my funds sit in a 401k? Start funding rungs for ages 62-66 in my IRA and put the remainder in the 401k into a TIPS fund until it can be converted (then convert that into rungs 67-70 at that time)? It's a 2-10 year duration fund. Or start with the later rungs in the IRA (or does it really matter)? If necessary, I could free up some space in the IRA by selling equities and purchasing those in the 401k, although that seems backwards. iBonds could eventually comprise a rung or two as well. That would not use ...
by Itster
Fri Jul 08, 2022 8:53 pm
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: Trading Treasuries (nominal and TIPS)
Replies: 4107
Views: 455652

Re: Trading Treasuries (nominal and TIPS)

Those who are/have built a bridge to SS, how long before did you begin setting that up? I like this idea in theory, but I'm a long way from when I'd need one (likely 2041-2052). My thought now is to start buying 10 year tips at 10 years out, but I'm just curious others thoughts on how they did this. Always enjoy what can be learned in this thread. I started getting TIPS funds (symbols: SCHP & VAIPX) in IRAs about 10-12 years ago as a substantial portion of my bond portion of AA, with the half-baked idea of eventually converting it to an LMP ladder covering not just the bridge to SSA, but also to supplement SSA benefits income. SSA benefits and this TIPS ladder will provide us with an income sufficient to pay for all necessary expenses ...
by Itster
Fri Jul 08, 2022 7:05 pm
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: Trading Treasuries (nominal and TIPS)
Replies: 4107
Views: 455652

Re: Trading Treasuries (nominal and TIPS)

Those who are/have built a bridge to SS, how long before did you begin setting that up? I like this idea in theory, but I'm a long way from when I'd need one (likely 2041-2052). My thought now is to start buying 10 year tips at 10 years out, but I'm just curious others thoughts on how they did this. Always enjoy what can be learned in this thread. I started getting TIPS funds (symbols: SCHP & VAIPX) in IRAs about 10-12 years ago as a substantial portion of my bond portion of AA, with the half-baked idea of eventually converting it to an LMP ladder covering not just the bridge to SSA, but also to supplement SSA benefits income. SSA benefits and this TIPS ladder will provide us with an income sufficient to pay for all necessary expenses ...
by Itster
Fri Jul 08, 2022 5:03 pm
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Retire at 43? Good idea?
Replies: 128
Views: 16199

Re: Retire at 43? Good idea?

No problem admitting I'm jealous. :D You have options with that kind of money. By asking the question I assume you want to retire. You certainly can afford to, but whether it's a good idea or not is really your call. If you're burned out or dislike your work/business, maybe it is a good idea. If you enjoy your work, then it might not be. You don't need more money, but you could always put more to good use elsewhere if you like what you're doing. If you're just overworked you could take a break, lighten the load, do something else, whatever. The options are yours. And don't forget the old adage, "Easy come, easy go."
by Itster
Fri Jul 01, 2022 5:55 pm
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: 60/40: They're coming for you
Replies: 60
Views: 11281

Re: 60/40: They're coming for you

Then why not "Worst First Half In 52 Years Only 20% Down!" That's really my response to the headline. It's not as bad as it sounds -- yet anyway. As I mentioned elsewhere, the real issue with regard to 60/40 is actually the bond side, not (yet) the equity side. And the thing is, it's probably too late to make a move. Yeah, sorry. The headline I saw was about the S&P 500 half-year decline being the worst in 52 years, but that is different than the bond side of things from the article. I should also clarify that I am concerned about the overall economy and where things could lead for people, so I don't mean to dismiss that. But it still seems hyped to highlight the 52 years at this point, if it's simply a matter of timing for t...
by Itster
Fri Jul 01, 2022 5:27 pm
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: 60/40: They're coming for you
Replies: 60
Views: 11281

Re: 60/40: They're coming for you

Marseille07 wrote: Fri Jul 01, 2022 4:37 pm
HomerJ wrote: Fri Jul 01, 2022 3:55 pm You're being tricked. It's still only a 20% decline. We've had multiple 20% drops in the past 52 years...

Sept-Dec 2018 was a 20% decline... That was over 4 months instead of 6 months and during different months of the year.

But it's not like it's been 52 years since we've seen a 20% decline over a few months.

The headline can be technically correct and still dumb and misleading.
The precondition is first half of the year. No one's suggesting -20% was the worst in 52 years.
Then why not "Worst First Half In 52 Years Only 20% Down!" That's really my response to the headline. It's not as bad as it sounds -- yet anyway.
by Itster
Fri Jul 01, 2022 3:23 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Do I have too much money tied up in my dream car?
Replies: 148
Views: 16724

Re: Do I have too much money tied up in my dream car?

Do I have too much money tied up in my dream car? Yes. With a net worth of around $300K owning a $40K collector car is excessive. It is that simple. I agree. OP, why not sell the S2000 while the market is crazy, and perhaps look for a car to replace the old Camry that would be more comfortable and fun to drive? You'll still have cash left over, spend less on insurance, and fewer hassles with parking, maintenance, registration, etc. Oops, I recommended the same thing before reading through the other posts. The old Camry is such a vanilla (dull) car (at least IMO) that you might feel less desire for the separate dream car if you had a daily driver you really liked and was fun to drive. Not that it would be inexpensive to get another car, but...
by Itster
Fri Jul 01, 2022 3:14 pm
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: 60/40: They're coming for you
Replies: 60
Views: 11281

Re: 60/40: They're coming for you

HomerJ wrote: Fri Jul 01, 2022 2:49 pm
LilyFleur wrote: Fri Jul 01, 2022 1:45 pm How do you define "stocks"?

I like the precision in the Wall Street Journal's reporting. THE WSJ reports that Thursday's decline closed out the S&P 500's worst first half of the year since 1970.
This is just bad journalism.

20% declines in the stock market are common. This the worst January-June since 1970, but there have been plenty of 20% declines. They just happened in different months.
Yep, it's purely a stat line and nothing more, turned into a major headline.
by Itster
Fri Jul 01, 2022 2:10 pm
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: 60/40: They're coming for you
Replies: 60
Views: 11281

Re: 60/40: They're coming for you

Media needs a story, so they overhype the situation.
by Itster
Fri Jul 01, 2022 1:06 pm
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Help with TIPS/Ibond Ladder
Replies: 2
Views: 425

Re: Help with TIPS/Ibond Ladder

Would you mind adding a link to the spreadsheet?

Thanks!
by Itster
Thu Jun 30, 2022 10:54 pm
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: Is there a limit to the percentage of my portfolio that should be in inflation protected instruments?
Replies: 109
Views: 10362

Re: Is there a limit to the percentage of my portfolio that should be in inflation protected instruments?

That might be more believable (in general, not for you specifically) if it weren't for the fact of all the people all of a sudden deciding TIPs are the solution now that inflation has shown up, at least for a while. I suspect many will change their minds again if/when inflation goes back down. That is not why there is resurgent interest in TIPS. It is because, until recently, TIPS yields were all neqative, and that guaranteed that the purchaser would LOSE money in real terms. Currently TIPS yields have turned positive for terms as short as roughly 2.5 years, so they have once again become a secure investment REGARDLESS of inflation rate. And even though they are negative for shorter terms, they still provide a much higher yield over 1-2 ye...
by Itster
Thu Jun 30, 2022 9:49 pm
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: Is there a limit to the percentage of my portfolio that should be in inflation protected instruments?
Replies: 109
Views: 10362

Re: Is there a limit to the percentage of my portfolio that should be in inflation protected instruments?

Neither of those scenarios were true in my case. Prediction had nothing to do with it. I buy TIPS to provide security and take prediction out of the equation. I don't care if inflation is high or low....TIPS will allow me to preserve my nest egg. Either way, I will know how exactly how much money I will make in real terms. Nominal gains are meaningless. Stock market investing, on the other hand, does involve prediction. Exactly. Not everyone who buys TIPS is making a bet that they will return more than nominal bonds. Perhaps institutional traders take that approach, but many of us are buying TIPS to guarantee future real purchasing power, and we don't care whether nominal bonds end up returning more than TIPS over our time horizon. That mi...
by Itster
Thu Jun 30, 2022 2:22 pm
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Vanguard Brokerage Transition - Issues Encountered
Replies: 47
Views: 7360

Re: Vanguard Brokerage Transition - Issues Encountered

My wife and I recently transitioned our retirement accounts at Vanguard. We've had an existing combined regular brokerage account for years as well. Previously, we only used mutual funds in tax-deferred but now wanted the option to purchase CDs, Treasuries, etc. in those accounts. No issues that we've noticed so far, thankfully. But ... we were one of "those" who ignored the request for all this time. :)

Maybe ours went smoothly since we simply had 2-3 funds in each, without much configuration needed.
by Itster
Sat Jun 25, 2022 1:17 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Barclays Savings Account pays 0.7%
Replies: 32
Views: 3389

Re: Barclays Savings Account pays 0.7%

Barclays HYSA edged up to 1.10% yesterday. Not the best or worst in the category, but not as appealing now that rates are higher elsewhere.
by Itster
Wed Jun 22, 2022 7:24 pm
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Thursday's (6/23) 5 yr Tips auction, who is participating?
Replies: 97
Views: 7761

Re: Thursday's (6/23) 5 yr Tips auction, who is participating?

I decided to place an order for 10 as well in my Roth, so I won't need to deal with the tax situation.
by Itster
Wed Jun 22, 2022 4:47 pm
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: Trading Treasuries (nominal and TIPS)
Replies: 4107
Views: 455652

Re: Trading Treasuries (nominal and TIPS)

Kevin M wrote: Wed Jun 22, 2022 12:18 am
GetSmarter wrote: Tue Jun 21, 2022 9:28 pm Thanks, I want to fully understand so please tell me, what's a box spread? And do you recommend keeping a certain amount of cash on sidelines to take advantage of new rates over time, or wait as one of your ladder rungs rolls over?
Box spread thread: viewtopic.php?t=371120

I have been heavy in cash recently, as large CDs matured and rates were too low to reinvest much in comparable fixed income. Have moved a large portion of cash into the indicated securities over the last few weeks.

Kevin
Eagerly awaiting the new Box Spread ETF or mutual fund, admiral shares. :)