Which estate planning documents matter most – and why? Brian Balke, Senior Portfolio Manager and Wealth Advisor and Kelly DeRidder, Senior Wealth Advisor, break it down in our latest perspectives video.

Michigan’s retirement income tax rules have evolved significantly over the years, creating complexity and confusion for many retirees. The creation of retirement income deduction, based on year of birth, has created uncertainty surrounding Michigan income tax. However, beginning in the 2026 tax year, that system reaches its endpoint: full phase-in of the retirement income exemption,…

Brian Balke, Senior Portfolio Manager & Wealth Advisor and Steve Doorn, Chief Investment Officer, discuss the state of the market in light of all the volatility we have seen and what the outlook for equities looks like from here.

One year ago, President Donald Trump fundamentally reshaped global trade by imposing tariffs on nearly every country in the world. The initial tariffs along with the subsequent, frequent revisions to tariff rates and exemptions created a lot of confusion for companies, importers, and investors. As the year progressed tariff uncertainty began to fade even though…

Brian Balke, Senior Portfolio Manager & Wealth Advisor and Steve Doorn, Chief Investment Officer, share Legacy Trust’s approach to cash and fixed income, including how liquidity is positioned and how fixed income portfolios are structured in today’s market environment. Tune in next month as they turn their focus to Legacy Trust’s current outlook and positioning…

Brian Balke, Senior Portfolio Manager & Wealth Advisor and Steve Doorn, Chief Investment Officer share the market and economic outlook as we head into 2026 – touching on tariffs, consumer health, valuations, inflation and what the labor market may signal for the year ahead. Stay tuned for next month’s follow-up video, where they will dive…

Charitable giving during one’s lifetime is a meaningful way to make a positive impact. Combine this with potential tax benefits, and it’s even more compelling. However, record keeping is burdensome, and tax benefits can be difficult to achieve. Considering these hurdles, donor-advised funds (DAF) offer a unique solution by simplifying administration and providing strategic flexibility.…

High starting valuations are generally associated with lower long-term forward returns. Although valuation metrics are weak short-term return predictors, history tells us that market returns using a 5-10 year horizon are likely to be impacted by elevated beginning valuations. Given the on-going rally and resulting valuations, investors should consider what this means for returns going…

On April 2, 2025, President Donald Trump unveiled a sweeping trade policy that shocked global markets, calling it “Liberation Day”. The administration implemented a minimum 10% tariff on all U.S. imports, with additional “reciprocal” tariffs ranging from 10% to 49% depending on the country. China tariffs were increased dramatically, peaking at 145% after a series…

While sharing a similar rise-and-fall pattern, there are several key differences between a regular market cycle and the wild ride offered by financial bubbles. On a given day, there is one and only one certainty in the stock market: It will move. Whether that is up, down or sideways is anyone’s guess. However, when compiling…