Social Security claiming strategies are a good place to start when developing holistic financial planning, writes Martha Shedden of the National Association of Registered Social Security Analysts. A holistic approach can allow advisors and clients to manage tax implications that accompany the combination of required minimum distributions and Social Security income.

The Commerce Department's initial estimate of third-quarter economic growth, due for release today, is expected to show a decline in growth for the first time in over a year, largely because of the Delta coronavirus variant. "Delta is the biggest reason why we have this noticeable deceleration," Moody's Analytics economist Ryan Sweet says, but there is evidence growth began to revive in September as the effect of the variant faded.

Some millennials say they have accumulated nest eggs in the past 18 months as a result of paused student loan repayment and other factors, according to a New York Life report. A majority of millennials and members of Generation Z indicated their savings had made them more open to receiving financial advice.

Yields on 10- and 30-year Treasurys have suffered the steepest declines since July amid concerns about how well the economy would manage tapering of asset purchases and interest-rate increases. However, shorter-dated instruments have continued to trade well, with a sale of 5-year Treasurys netting $61 billion.

Medicare's fall enrollment season is underway and will continue until Dec. 7, meaning beneficiaries have a chance to review coverage and make changes. Enrollees should consider factors related to Medicare Part D, Advantage plans and other issues.

The 4% rule for managing retirement withdrawals might be straightforward, but it also overlooks realistic spending trends and could prevent clients from optimizing the use of their assets, writes Johnny Poulsen of Income Lab. "Income distribution is the most complex aspect of the retirement puzzle," notes Poulsen, who adds that it's also one of the best ways for advisors to add value.

To ensure everyone's health and safety, and to provide all with the opportunity to reconnect with advisors and firm executives from across the country, FSI Forum 2021 is now entirely virtual and complimentary for all attendees! Join us wherever you are Nov. 2-4 for engaging sessions on the issues affecting the independent financial-services industry right now and live interaction and networking with speakers and your peers. Register now!