Search found 886 matches

by sleepysurf
Sat Mar 23, 2024 7:45 am
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: It is really that simple to do it the Bogleheads way?
Replies: 87
Views: 8196

Re: It is really that simple to do it the Bogleheads way?

It is that simple. But certainly not easy to stay the course during major bear markets. Also, understand that the returns are in no way guaranteed. You should not expect 8-9% during any given year, or on average. We had a "lost decade" at the beginning of this millennium, during which the S&P500 had a negative nominal return, let alone real. One can tolerate that while accumulating, but it's another thing when you're retired and drawing from the portfolio, and seeing your real purchasing power diminish. Exactly, hence the need for a diversified portfolio. During the "lost decade" (Jan 2000 - 2010) when the S&P 500 was flat, Small (and Mid) Caps, Real Estate, and International were all positive. It's easier to &q...
by sleepysurf
Mon Mar 18, 2024 12:18 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Portable Audio - your configuration?
Replies: 9
Views: 680

Re: Portable Audio - your configuration?

Aftershokz Aeropex (Mini) for road biking and walking. The bone conduction design (and listening at lower volume) ensures I hear ambient noises, especially when biking. They also work great for Zoom meetings. I don't have much hair, so the "Mini" (vs. Regular) size option was perfect for me.
by sleepysurf
Sun Mar 17, 2024 12:46 pm
Forum: US Chapters
Topic: "Retired" Life Stage Virtual Chapter "Master Thread"
Replies: 131
Views: 54139

Re: "Retired" Life Stage Virtual Chapter "Master Thread"

For those interested, the Bogleheads Life Stage Chapters is hosting the "Part II" Discussion about Jordan Grumet, MD's book Taking Stock: A Hospice Doctor's Advice on Financial Independence, Building Wealth, and Living a Regret-Free Life on Wed. March 20, 2024, at 8:00 pm ET. Please note that this meeting will be an open BH discussion and Q & A on this topic, not an interview with the author. 8:00 pm Eastern | 7:00 pm Central | 6:00 pm Mountain | 5:00 pm Pacific This meeting will be a roundtable discussion on this thought-provoking topic that was presented by Jordan Grumet at the 2023 Bogleheads Conference on "How to Live a Regret-Free Life." This excellent Boglehead Conference Presentation video with Jordan on this ...
by sleepysurf
Tue Mar 12, 2024 5:32 pm
Forum: US Chapters
Topic: Tampa Bay Local Bogleheads Chapter
Replies: 163
Views: 84313

Re: Tampa Bay Local Bogleheads Chapter

Just a quickie reminder about this Zoom meeting tomorrow night, with guest Betsy Pecor, CFA sharing perspectives on her "Journey from ACTIVE Portfolio Manager to Retired PASSIVE Investor." This should be relevant for Bogleheads of all ages and Life Stages. Full details in post above.
by sleepysurf
Tue Mar 12, 2024 5:30 pm
Forum: US Chapters
Topic: "Mid-Career" Life Stage Virtual Chapter "Master Thread"
Replies: 30
Views: 21424

Re: "Mid-Career" Life Stage Virtual Chapter "Master Thread"

Just a quickie reminder about this Zoom meeting tomorrow night, with guest Betsy Pecor, CFA sharing perspectives on her "Journey from ACTIVE Portfolio Manager to Retired PASSIVE Investor." This should be relevant for Bogleheads of all ages and Life Stages. Full details in post above.
by sleepysurf
Tue Mar 12, 2024 5:27 pm
Forum: US Chapters
Topic: "Starting Out" Life Stage Chapter Master Thread
Replies: 55
Views: 33235

Re: "Starting Out" Life Stage Chapter Master Thread

There are LOTS of great meetings coming up! Bumping this as a reminder about the one Wed night, with guest Betsy Pecor, CFA sharing perspectives on her "Journey from ACTIVE Portfolio Manager to Retired PASSIVE Investor"... The "Retired" Life Stage and Tampa Bay Chapters are jointly hosting a very special Zoom meeting on Wed, Mar 13 , from 8 - 10 PM (Eastern) that should be relevant for those just "Starting Out", as well as Bogleheads in ALL Life Stages. 5 PM Pacific | 6 PM Mountain | 7 PM Central | 8 PM Eastern Format: Special guest Betsy Pecor, CFA , recently retired following a successful career as an ACTIVE Small/Mid Cap Portfolio Manager. She'll share investing perspectives as a former "Wall Street Ins...
by sleepysurf
Tue Mar 12, 2024 5:25 pm
Forum: US Chapters
Topic: "Pre-Retirement/Early Retirement" Life Stage Virtual Chapter "Master Thread"
Replies: 150
Views: 66292

Re: "Pre-Retirement/Early Retirement" Life Stage Virtual Chapter "Master Thread"

There are LOTS of great meetings coming up! Here's a reminder about this unique one tomorrow night, with guest Betsy Pecor, CFA sharing perspectives on her "Journey from ACTIVE Portfolio Manager to Retired PASSIVE Investor"... The "Retired" Life Stage (and Tampa Bay) Chapters are jointly hosting a very special Zoom meeting on Wed, Mar 13 , from 8 - 10 PM (Eastern) that should be relevant for the "Pre/Early Retirement" folks, as well as Bogleheads in ALL Life Stages. 5 PM Pacific | 6 PM Mountain | 7 PM Central | 8 PM Eastern Format: Special guest Betsy Pecor, CFA , recently retired following a successful career as an ACTIVE Small/Mid Cap Portfolio Manager. She'll share investing perspectives as a former "Wa...
by sleepysurf
Tue Mar 12, 2024 12:32 pm
Forum: US Chapters
Topic: "Retired" Life Stage Virtual Chapter "Master Thread"
Replies: 131
Views: 54139

Re: "Retired" Life Stage Virtual Chapter "Master Thread"

Bumping this as a reminder for our meeting Wed night. Full details and Zoom link in post above. It should be relevant for Bogleheads at all Life Stages!
by sleepysurf
Tue Mar 12, 2024 12:27 pm
Forum: US Chapters
Topic: Bogleheads Life Stage Chapters
Replies: 101
Views: 34954

Re: Bogleheads Life Stage Chapters

Lots of great Zoom meetings coming up! Here's a final reminder for this one Wed night. The "Retired" Life Stage and Tampa Bay Chapters are jointly hosting a very special Zoom meeting on Wed, Mar 13 , from 8 - 10 PM (Eastern) that should be relevant for Bogleheads in ALL Life Stages. 5 PM Pacific | 6 PM Mountain | 7 PM Central | 8 PM Eastern Format: Special guest Betsy Pecor, CFA , recently retired following a successful career as an ACTIVE Small/Mid Cap Portfolio Manager. She'll share investing perspectives as a former "Wall Street Insider" with takeaways for Bogleheads at ALL Life Stages, followed by open Q&A. The meeting will be recorded, and participants (anonymously, if desired) will be able to submit questions f...
by sleepysurf
Tue Mar 05, 2024 3:28 pm
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: Is Vanguard's Yodlee Aggregator Secure?
Replies: 20
Views: 3941

Re: Is Vanguard's Yodlee Aggregator Secure?

toddthebod wrote: Tue Mar 05, 2024 3:25 pm Schwab uses them too. I had the same experience linking my Fidelity account. The only place I put my Fidelity credentials was into a popup with a fidelity.com URL.
Yes. I should have clarified that Envestnet/Yodlee REDIRECTED me to the Fidelity.com login page, and that's where I entered my credentials.
by sleepysurf
Tue Mar 05, 2024 3:20 pm
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: Is Vanguard's Yodlee Aggregator Secure?
Replies: 20
Views: 3941

Re: Is Vanguard's Yodlee Aggregator Secure?

My mother recently passed, and I inherited a portion of her Fidelity brokerage account. I wanted to transfer it to Vanguard, where the rest of our portfolio is held. Despite some trepidations (given the spate of complaints about Vanguard's website), it took me all of three minutes to initiate the transfer online! Interestingly, after clicking the link to open a NEW (Individual) Vanguard Brokerage account, an Envestnet/Yodlee window then opened, directing me to enter my Fidelity login credentials. Within seconds, my inherited Fidelity account was listed, and after confirming everything was correct, I hit submit. Easy peasy! IMHO, if Vanguard (and many other financial institutions) are comfortable enough to use Envestnet/Yodlee as a secure in...
by sleepysurf
Tue Mar 05, 2024 11:18 am
Forum: US Chapters
Topic: Bogleheads Life Stage Chapters
Replies: 101
Views: 34954

Re: Bogleheads Life Stage Chapters

The "Retired" Life Stage and Tampa Bay Chapters are jointly hosting a very special Zoom meeting on Wed, Mar 13 , from 8 - 10 PM (Eastern) that should be relevant for Bogleheads in ALL Life Stages. 5 PM Pacific | 6 PM Mountain | 7 PM Central | 8 PM Eastern Format: Special guest Betsy Pecor, CFA , recently retired following a successful career as an ACTIVE Small/Mid Cap Portfolio Manager. She'll share investing perspectives as a former "Wall Street Insider" with takeaways for Bogleheads at ALL Life Stages, followed by open Q&A. The meeting will be recorded, and participants (anonymously, if desired) will be able to submit questions following her presentation. Topic: Some areas she'll cover include: An "Insiders&qu...
by sleepysurf
Tue Mar 05, 2024 11:16 am
Forum: US Chapters
Topic: "Starting Out" Life Stage Chapter Master Thread
Replies: 55
Views: 33235

Re: "Starting Out" Life Stage Chapter Master Thread

The "Retired" Life Stage and Tampa Bay Chapters are jointly hosting a very special Zoom meeting on Wed, Mar 13 , from 8 - 10 PM (Eastern) that should be relevant for those just "Starting Out", as well as Bogleheads in ALL Life Stages. 5 PM Pacific | 6 PM Mountain | 7 PM Central | 8 PM Eastern Format: Special guest Betsy Pecor, CFA , recently retired following a successful career as an ACTIVE Small/Mid Cap Portfolio Manager. She'll share investing perspectives as a former "Wall Street Insider" with takeaways for Bogleheads at ALL Life Stages, followed by open Q&A. The meeting will be recorded, and participants (anonymously, if desired) will be able to submit questions following her presentation. Topic: Some ...
by sleepysurf
Tue Mar 05, 2024 11:14 am
Forum: US Chapters
Topic: "Mid-Career" Life Stage Virtual Chapter "Master Thread"
Replies: 30
Views: 21424

Re: "Mid-Career" Life Stage Virtual Chapter "Master Thread"

The "Retired" Life Stage (and Tampa Bay) Chapters are jointly hosting a very special Zoom meeting on Wed, Mar 13 , from 8 - 10 PM (Eastern) that should be relevant for the "Mid-Career" folks, as well as Bogleheads at ALL Life Stages. 5 PM Pacific | 6 PM Mountain | 7 PM Central | 8 PM Eastern Format: Special guest Betsy Pecor, CFA , recently retired following a successful career as an ACTIVE Small/Mid Cap Portfolio Manager. She'll share investing perspectives as a former "Wall Street Insider" with takeaways for Bogleheads at ALL Life Stages, followed by open Q&A. The meeting will be recorded, and participants (anonymously, if desired) will be able to submit questions following her presentation. Topic: Some a...
by sleepysurf
Tue Mar 05, 2024 11:12 am
Forum: US Chapters
Topic: "Pre-Retirement/Early Retirement" Life Stage Virtual Chapter "Master Thread"
Replies: 150
Views: 66292

Re: "Pre-Retirement/Early Retirement" Life Stage Virtual Chapter "Master Thread"

The "Retired" Life Stage (and Tampa Bay) Chapters are jointly hosting a very special Zoom meeting on Wed, Mar 13 , from 8 - 10 PM (Eastern) that should be relevant for the "Pre/Early Retirement" folks, as well as Bogleheads in ALL Life Stages. 5 PM Pacific | 6 PM Mountain | 7 PM Central | 8 PM Eastern Format: Special guest Betsy Pecor, CFA , recently retired following a successful career as an ACTIVE Small/Mid Cap Portfolio Manager. She'll share investing perspectives as a former "Wall Street Insider" with takeaways for Bogleheads at ALL Life Stages, followed by open Q&A. The meeting will be recorded, and participants (anonymously, if desired) will be able to submit questions following her presentation. Top...
by sleepysurf
Mon Mar 04, 2024 8:06 pm
Forum: US Chapters
Topic: Tampa Bay Local Bogleheads Chapter
Replies: 163
Views: 84313

Re: Tampa Bay Local Bogleheads Chapter

Our Tampa Bay Chaper, in conjunction with the "Retired" Life Stage, are jointly hosting a very special Zoom meeting on Wed, Mar 13 , from 8 - 10 PM (Eastern) that should be of interest for ALL Bogleheads. 5 PM Pacific | 6 PM Mountain | 7 PM Central | 8 PM Eastern Format: Special guest Betsy Pecor, CFA , recently retired following a successful career as an ACTIVE Small/Mid Cap Portfolio Manager. She'll share investing perspectives as a former "Wall Street Insider" with takeaways for Bogleheads at ALL Life Stages, followed by open Q&A. The meeting will be recorded, and participants (anonymously, if desired) will be able to submit questions following her presentation. Topic: Some areas she'll cover include: An "Ins...
by sleepysurf
Mon Mar 04, 2024 7:29 pm
Forum: US Chapters
Topic: "Retired" Life Stage Virtual Chapter "Master Thread"
Replies: 131
Views: 54139

Re: "Retired" Life Stage Virtual Chapter "Master Thread"

Our "Retired" Life Stage (and Tampa Bay) Chapters are hosting a very special Zoom meeting on Wed, Mar 13 , from 8 - 10 PM (Eastern) 5 PM Pacific | 6 PM Mountain | 7 PM Central | 8 PM Eastern Format: Special guest Betsy Pecor, CFA , recently retired following a successful career as an ACTIVE Small/Mid Cap Portfolio Manager. She'll share investing perspectives as a former "Wall Street Insider" with takeaways for Bogleheads at ALL Life Stages, followed by open Q&A. The meeting will be recorded, and participants (anonymously, if desired) will be able to submit questions following her presentation. Topic: Some areas she'll cover include: An "Insiders" perspective of the world of Small Caps Transitioning, as a ne...
by sleepysurf
Sun Feb 25, 2024 8:12 am
Forum: US Chapters
Topic: Sad news: ObliviousInvestor's mother has passed away
Replies: 8
Views: 4345

Re: "Open Social Security" calculator: feature requests, bug reports, etc.

Condolences to you and your family on the loss of your mother. My mother passed ~7 wks ago, and your book After the Death of Your Spouse (despite not being the exact topic), has been a great resource for details to address.
by sleepysurf
Wed Feb 21, 2024 2:45 pm
Forum: US Chapters
Topic: "Retired" Life Stage Virtual Chapter "Master Thread"
Replies: 131
Views: 54139

Re: "Retired" Life Stage Virtual Chapter "Master Thread"

Bumping this as a final reminder for tonight's Zoom discussion. Full details in post above.
by sleepysurf
Tue Feb 20, 2024 9:33 pm
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: Share your 'reverse glidepath' stories!
Replies: 26
Views: 4714

Re: Share your 'reverse glidepath' stories!

...I wonder if many older retirees have a rising glidepath once they are in the clear financially and saving for charities or their heirs. This seems a little different from the bond tent idea. That's more or less what I'm doing. Prior to retiring over 6 yrs ago, I built a 7 year CD ladder (to minimize SOR risk, and to tap for living expenses prior to taking SS at age 70). The balance of our portfolio at that time was 50:50. Since then, we've spent down much of the CD ladder, and also did significant Roth conversions (moving Total Bond in IRA to Total Stock in Roth). Although I'm not explicitly following Kitces/Pfau, the net effect has been a rising equity glide path. Since we're spending well below the 4% rule (of thumb), and almost past ...
by sleepysurf
Sat Feb 17, 2024 6:41 am
Forum: US Chapters
Topic: "Retired" Life Stage Virtual Chapter "Master Thread"
Replies: 131
Views: 54139

Re: "Retired" Life Stage Virtual Chapter "Master Thread"

The "Pre/Early Retirement" and "Retired" Life Stage Chapters are hosting a Zoom meeting (Part 2 of a 2 part series) on Wed. Feb. 21, 2024, at 8:00 pm ET. We'll be discussing more topics from the 2023 BH Conference Open Roundtable Discussion: Advice for Pre-Retirees and Retirees . Watching the video prior to our Zoom discussion is recommended, but not required. *** Part 1 of our Zoom discussion, covering the first half of the Conference Video, was Wed Feb. 7, 2024. To promote candid conversation, neither Part 1 nor Part 2 Zoom meetings are being recorded *** Topics from the second half of the Conference Video will be covered Feb 21, including... -- Pre-Retirees: Traditional or Roth retirement contributions -- Tax-efficien...
by sleepysurf
Fri Feb 09, 2024 8:37 pm
Forum: US Chapters
Topic: Tampa Bay Local Bogleheads Chapter
Replies: 163
Views: 84313

Re: Tampa Bay Local Bogleheads Chapter

Bumping as a final reminder about our next meeting on Sat, Feb 10, starting 10:30 AM. Full details in post above.
by sleepysurf
Wed Feb 07, 2024 8:05 am
Forum: US Chapters
Topic: "Retired" Life Stage Virtual Chapter "Master Thread"
Replies: 131
Views: 54139

Re: "Retired" Life Stage Virtual Chapter "Master Thread"

Bumping this as a reminder for tonight's meeting, following up on various Retirement topics from the BH Annual Conference panel discussion. Full details and Zoom link in post above.
by sleepysurf
Wed Jan 31, 2024 12:53 pm
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: Primecap funds
Replies: 14
Views: 2515

Re: Primecap funds

Coincidentally, Morningstar's latest The Long View podcast has Primecap managers Joel Fried and Al Mordecai discussing the firms history, culture, and investing philosophy... https://www.morningstar.com/podcasts/the-long-view/03d0879d-2fe7-46fb-92c5-7b173b1efa3a Their responses sounded a bit "canned" to me, but interesting nonetheless. I find it ironic that the original intent of the founders was for it to be a small firm, with only ~20 separately managed accounts, but that all changed after Jack Bogle and Jack Brennan tapped them to manage some active funds for Vanguard. Although active managers, their commitment to long term holdings aligns reasonably well with the Boglehead approach, for those wishing to be more aggressive. How...
by sleepysurf
Tue Jan 23, 2024 1:24 pm
Forum: US Chapters
Topic: "Retired" Life Stage Virtual Chapter "Master Thread"
Replies: 131
Views: 54139

Re: "Retired" Life Stage Virtual Chapter "Master Thread"

The "Pre/Early Retirement" and "Retired" Life Stage chapters will host an open discussion on Wednesday, February 7, on Zoom, starting 8 PM (Eastern) and another meeting on Wednesday February 21, same time. 5 pm Pacific 6 pm Mountain 7 pm Central 8 pm Eastern The Bogleheads Conference videos contain excellent presentations and round table discussions. To leverage this wealth of material, we are going to discuss the video Bogleheads® Conference 2023 - Advice for Pre-Retirees and Retirees: A Roundtable Discussion. Viewing the video before the meeting is optional. Due to the span of all the topics, only the first half of the topics will be covered on this Zoom call, and the second half discussed on 2/21/24. We will start wit...
by sleepysurf
Tue Jan 23, 2024 12:50 pm
Forum: US Chapters
Topic: 🎁 🎉Happy 100th Birthday to Taylor Larimore 🎊🎂
Replies: 429
Views: 43355

Re: 🎁 🎉Happy 100th Birthday to Taylor Larimore 🎊🎂

Taylor, although Jack Bogle crowned you "King of the Bogleheads" I view you more as the "Moses of Bogleheads" who brought Jack's advice down from the mountain, delivered it to the masses, and changed our lives forever. For that I'll always be grateful.

Wishing you the best on your 100th birthday. Well done, sir!
by sleepysurf
Tue Jan 23, 2024 7:19 am
Forum: US Chapters
Topic: Tampa Bay Local Bogleheads Chapter
Replies: 163
Views: 84313

Re: Tampa Bay Local Bogleheads Chapter

Our next quarterly meeting will be Sat, Feb 10, from 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM, at the Seminole Heights Branch Library. It's easily accessible from I-275 and I-4, with a large free parking lot, and nearby restaurants for those who'd like to meet for lunch afterwards.

In addition to our usual open Q&A, some members will discuss and demo their favorite personal finance tools.

As always, we invite Bogleheads of all ages, and life stages, from the Tampa Bay region to join us. You can sign up for our chapter email list/website (and also RSVP) here... https://groups.io/g/tampabaybogleheads.
by sleepysurf
Thu Jan 18, 2024 5:13 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Sliding patio door replacement
Replies: 20
Views: 2985

Re: Sliding patio door replacement

PSA. When replacing sliding glass doors, confirm the bottom track threshold/rails will not extend higher than the old track. A friend of mine just had three sets of hurricane strength sliders installed (Florida). Unfortunately, the bottom threshold/rails now extend over 1-1/2" above the floor surface, so a major trip risk, and they can't be cut without compromising their function. The installer told him the threshold height is required to meet newer codes, and they'll just have to adapt to stepping over it!
by sleepysurf
Thu Jan 18, 2024 11:14 am
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: How to prove that I am not losing money with bond funds?
Replies: 118
Views: 15094

Re: How to prove that I am not losing money with bond funds?

I previously posted this Money for the Rest of Us podcast link in another bond thread... https://www.podbean.com/media/share/dir ... ce=w_share

The host, David Stein, explains why a bond fund's Starting Yield to Maturity is a reliable predictor of it's expected return when held for it's average duration. I believe he mentions this JP Morgan paper which illustrates that... https://am.jpmorgan.com/us/en/asset-man ... out-yield/
by sleepysurf
Mon Jan 15, 2024 8:01 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Any audiophiles on this forum?
Replies: 326
Views: 42100

Re: Any audiophiles on this forum?

Hi BH Audiophiles! I'm looking for some loudspeaker recs for a system that I'll be setting up soon... You can also check out used speakers on Audiogon , for local sales, where you might be able to audition them. Also, depending where you live, there are upcoming high-end audio shows in Tampa ( Florida Audio Expo ) and Chicago ( Axpona ) where you could audition a LOT of speakers, and pick the brains of audio experts. Also, your overall room setup (and acoustics) will determine what speaker design would work best (e.g. front port or sealed if on a bookshelf vs. more options if located away from walls). The McIntosh gear you inherited is all solid state (vs. their more typical vacuum tube designs), so should be able to drive most speakers. H...
by sleepysurf
Tue Jan 09, 2024 11:18 am
Forum: US Chapters
Topic: "Retired" Life Stage Virtual Chapter "Master Thread"
Replies: 131
Views: 54139

Re: "Retired" Life Stage Virtual Chapter "Master Thread"

Bumping this as a reminder for Wed night virtual meeting with Jill Steinberg, on "Finding Purpose in Retirement." See post above for details.
by sleepysurf
Sun Dec 24, 2023 7:02 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Hour long Uber difficult?
Replies: 31
Views: 3620

Re: Hour long Uber difficult?

In some locations, for an additional fee, Carvana will come to YOU to complete the transaction, and take the car. That might be worth looking into; perhaps even comparable cost vs. Uber or Lyft.
by sleepysurf
Thu Dec 21, 2023 8:00 am
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: How often do you check up on your investments?
Replies: 81
Views: 9083

Re: How often do you check up on your investments?

I posted my take on this subject in a different Forum discussion a couple years ago, but it still applies... I do something unorthodox to appease my desire to always "tweak" my portfolio. A few years ago I downloaded a "real time" stock tracking app for my Android smartphone ( Stocks Widget ), and loaded it with all the tickers (equivalent ETF's if Mutual Funds) in my portfolio. I actually check it a few times each trading day. That, along with reading this Forum, has become my Investing Desensitization Therapy ! Over the years, watching the endless gyrations of my well diversified portfolio has reinforced the BH mantra that I can't/shouldn't "time the market" or react impulsively. That actually helps me stick ...
by sleepysurf
Thu Dec 07, 2023 6:59 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Which Mesh Router To Buy
Replies: 61
Views: 7117

Re: Which Mesh Router To Buy

I recently installed a 3 node TP-Link Deco X55 mesh system in our home. It's been working great. Prior to doing so, I read all about Mesh systems here... https://dongknows.com/mesh-wi-fi-system-explained/ The technology is rapidly evolving, with new tri and quad-band routers now available. If you also have structured wiring (Ethernet) to some areas, as I do, you can use it to "backhaul" the routers for better speed/connectivity. In that case, it's important that all the nodes have multiple ethernet ports, and not all models offer that. FYI, I attached my primary Mesh router to our Spectrum Modem, so no longer needed the router Spectrum provided. I found out Spectrum was charging us $5/mo "rental" fee for their router, wh...
by sleepysurf
Wed Dec 06, 2023 7:06 am
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: Best portfolio snapshot
Replies: 7
Views: 1356

Re: Best portfolio snapshot

You can use Empower or Fidelity, after you set up an account ( unless you already have one). But you have to link your accounts, which some people aren't comfortable with for security reasons... Actually, the Empower site (formerly Personal Capital) allows users to manually enter holdings, if concerned about actively linking their investment accounts. Here's one of their support pages explaining how... https://support-personalwealth.empower.com/hc/en-us/articles/201169980-Add-Manual-Investments-Holdings Whether choosing linked or manually added, I've found Empower to be incredibly useful for tracking our overall portfolio allocation across multiple accounts, along with spending, and retirement projections. BTW, the couple times one of thei...
by sleepysurf
Mon Dec 04, 2023 6:09 pm
Forum: US Chapters
Topic: "Retired" Life Stage Virtual Chapter "Master Thread"
Replies: 131
Views: 54139

Re: "Retired" Life Stage Virtual Chapter "Master Thread"

FYI, this upcoming meeting on Medicare, Wed Dec 13, may be relevant for some. The Chicago Bogleheads and the Pre-Retirement Life Stage Chapters are hosting a very informative online meeting on Medicare and the new Medicare rules with licensed Medicare agent, Lonnie Thibodeaux. This is the second time the Bogleheads have invited Lonnie to speak (the first meeting was on Oct. 29, 2022). He really knows Medicare and is very capable of explaining it and answering your Medicare and Medicare Advantage questions. Time: Wed. Dec. 13, 2023 - 8:00 pm ET Topics covered will include the different parts of Medicare, Medigap insurance, Medicare Advantage, what is and is not covered by Medicare & Medicare plans, Medicare eligibility, enrollment period...
by sleepysurf
Tue Nov 14, 2023 7:43 pm
Forum: US Chapters
Topic: "Retired" Life Stage Virtual Chapter "Master Thread"
Replies: 131
Views: 54139

Re: "Retired" Life Stage Virtual Chapter "Master Thread"

For those interested, here's a reminder about tomorrow's meeting... Healthcare Options Pre-Medicare- Wed Nov 15, 2023-8:00 pm ET

Full details and Zoom link in post above.
by sleepysurf
Tue Nov 07, 2023 7:37 pm
Forum: US Chapters
Topic: "Retired" Life Stage Virtual Chapter "Master Thread"
Replies: 131
Views: 54139

Re: "Retired" Life Stage Virtual Chapter "Master Thread"

Final reminder for tomorrow's virtual meeting, 8 PM ET, featuring "Grandma Sylvia" Auton's journey from surviving the loss of her husband to learning how to successfully manage her own finances. Full details and Zoom link in post above.
by sleepysurf
Sat Nov 04, 2023 7:11 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Best auto insurance- Tampa Bay area?
Replies: 12
Views: 1255

Re: Best auto insurance- Tampa Bay area?

I suggest getting a quote from AAA as well. I've been with State Farm for many years (bundled auto, home, umbrella), and recently got a quote from AAA, which was substantially lower. Next step for me will be confirming they'll really write homeowners policy (we have a new roof and don't live in a coastal area). Depending on where you reside, homeowners may not be available.
by sleepysurf
Wed Nov 01, 2023 8:25 pm
Forum: US Chapters
Topic: "Retired" Life Stage Virtual Chapter "Master Thread"
Replies: 131
Views: 54139

Re: "Retired" Life Stage Virtual Chapter "Master Thread"

Folks, although not officially hosted by our Retired Life Stage, there's an upcoming virtual meeting that may be relevant, especially for those with "lesser financially involved" spouses/partners. The Starting Out, and Pre-Retirement, Life Stage Chapters will be hosting an on-line meeting with "Grandma Sylvia" and how she educated herself "from a terrified non-investor to a joyful, confident one." Date & Time: Wed Nov. 8, 2023 starting 8:00 pm ET Topic: Sylvia Auton's journey from surviving the loss of her husband to learning how to successfully manage her own finances All Bogleheads are welcome for this interesting discussion of starting out late in life as a novice investor of your family's money followin...
by sleepysurf
Mon Oct 30, 2023 4:50 pm
Forum: US Chapters
Topic: Tampa Bay Local Bogleheads Chapter
Replies: 163
Views: 84313

Re: Tampa Bay Local Bogleheads Chapter

FYI, our next quarterly meeting will be in-person, at the C. Blythe Andrews Jr. Library (Community Rm A) this coming Sat, Nov 4th, from 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM. There is ample parking, and it's not too far from I-275 or I-4.

We'll review some takeaways following the Bogleheads Annual Conference (Oct 13-15 in Rockville, MD), along with our usual open discussion covering whatever topics are on your minds. For those interested, we can meet for lunch afterwards at a local restaurant (TBD).

As always, we invite Bogleheads of all ages, and life stages, from the Tampa Bay region to join us. You can sign up for our chapter email list/website here... https://groups.io/g/tampabaybogleheads.
by sleepysurf
Wed Oct 25, 2023 4:01 pm
Forum: US Chapters
Topic: "Retired" Life Stage Virtual Chapter "Master Thread"
Replies: 131
Views: 54139

Re: "Retired" Life Stage Virtual Chapter "Master Thread"

Final reminder for this "Eldercare Planning" Zoom meeting tonight! See posts above for additional details and Zoom link.
by sleepysurf
Wed Oct 25, 2023 3:37 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Does your significant other know about Bogleheads?
Replies: 97
Views: 10053

Re: Does your significant other know about Bogleheads?

I think it would be great for a spouse of a Boglehead forum poster to come here after the poster passes away. I can't think of a better place to start. I know I would love for my wife to do so. I wonder if there is a way for this forum to facilitate such a thing - perhaps a "start here" section for such a situation. My wife knows of this forum but has never been here herself (at this point no interest). Actually, Sylvia Auton (aka "Grandma Sylvia) is a widow who discovered, and embraced, the Bogleheads philosophy, after her husband passed away, and wrote a book about it. See this thread... https://www.bogleheads.org/forum/viewtopic.php?t=406252 She is going to be the guest on an upcoming BH Life Stage Chapter Zoom meeting on...
by sleepysurf
Mon Oct 16, 2023 7:45 am
Forum: US Chapters
Topic: "Retired" Life Stage Virtual Chapter "Master Thread"
Replies: 131
Views: 54139

Re: "Retired" Life Stage Virtual Chapter "Master Thread"

Thank you, Miriam, for posting here. You beat me to it! I'm sure many of us in the Retired Life Stage will be particularly interested in this meeting topic!
by sleepysurf
Sun Oct 08, 2023 2:45 pm
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: At what point does BND become attractive?
Replies: 141
Views: 24192

Re: At what point does BND become attractive?

David Stein's recent Money For the Rest of Us "bonus" podcast about bonds (particularly the first two segments) does a great job explaining various Bond Yield calculations and the utility of "Yield to Maturity" as the best predictor of future fund return... https://www.podbean.com/ew/dir-v43fq-1a863fad

Far too much information to summarize here, but definitely worth the listen!

Edited for clarification.
by sleepysurf
Wed Oct 04, 2023 4:24 pm
Forum: US Chapters
Topic: Sad News - LadyGeek's Mom has passed
Replies: 158
Views: 38184

Re: Sad News - LadyGeek's Mom has passed

So sorry for your loss. Thank you for sharing and educating us during this difficult time (as you also did when your late husband passed).
by sleepysurf
Fri Sep 22, 2023 2:05 pm
Forum: US Chapters
Topic: "BogleDocs" Chapter for Physicians & Healthcare Professionals - Please Respond if Interested!
Replies: 66
Views: 13161

Re: "BogleDocs" Chapter for Physicians & Healthcare Professionals - Please Respond if Interested!

Since there appears to be sufficient interest, and this chapter has been approved, what are your "next steps" for organization, and (presumably) virtual meetings?
by sleepysurf
Wed Sep 20, 2023 10:24 am
Forum: US Chapters
Topic: "BogleDocs" Chapter for Physicians & Healthcare Professionals - Please Respond if Interested!
Replies: 66
Views: 13161

Re: "BogleDocs" Chapter for Physicians & Healthcare Professionals - Please Respond if Interested!

FYI, the OP already floated this idea at the White Coat Investor (WCI) site, and the feedback was it would be redundant. I think the same generally applies here as well. The Boglehead philosophy is applicable to all investors, regardless of profession or socioeconomic status. IMHO (as a retired physician), there's no need for another medical/healthcare oriented chapter since the WCI site already serves that niche.

I'd rather see motivated Bogleheads (regardless of profession) who are interested in educating/supporting others, start a Local Bogleheads Chapter (if none exists near them) and/or get involved with one of the four Life Stage Virtual Chapters, rather than further "fragmenting" this community.

Just my $0.02 worth!
by sleepysurf
Tue Sep 12, 2023 5:19 pm
Forum: US Chapters
Topic: "Retired" Life Stage Virtual Chapter "Master Thread"
Replies: 131
Views: 54139

Re: "Retired" Life Stage Virtual Chapter "Master Thread"

Final reminder re tomorrow's Life Stage virtual meeting on Estate Planning. Full info, including Zoom link, in post above. Should be a very informative presentation!
by sleepysurf
Wed Sep 06, 2023 4:57 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: What are you listening to now
Replies: 5833
Views: 591171

Re: What are you listening to now

Streaming Radio Paradise- Mellow Mix