High Inflation, Lower Stocks: A 'New Normal' for Retirement? Monday, July 11, 2022

July has always been a pivotal month of the year, the halfway point when we look back at the events of the last six months and look ahead to the potential for the second half. In a way, it’s a snapshot of our theme for 45 Forward—looking forward to the second half of life that (hopefully) will be even better than the first. But as we close the books on the first half of 2022, there are lots of worries about our uncertain future, especially the economy. Inflation is the highest level since 1981; we’re in shock over gas and food prices and supply chain disruptions; the S & P 500 experienced its worst first-half decline in five decades. Not to mention the troubling impact of the war in Ukraine and continuing questions about the state of COVID, both at home and abroad. Where on earth are we headed? In today’s episode, we talk with Michael Hartzman, a Wall Street veteran who specializes in retirement planning, education, elder and estate planning, life insurance and long-term care. Michael is the co-host of a national weekly business podcast, The Lebenthal Report, a business show that keeps investors informed about the current market conditions, opportunities and risks, breaking down today’s complex stories into easily understood concepts. Michael will offer insights into how we can continue to face the ongoing anxieties during the next phases of our life—providing the income to meet the expenses of a fulfilling retirement while also putting money aside for the things that keep us up at night: the inevitable “Uh ohs” and the “I didn’t see that coming.” Ultimately, his goal is to help us create and sustain a low-stress plan for our financial success and security.