It’s been a while since I have posted, I wish every one well. I have been investing in ETF’s and have several individual stocks. Because of the war and the volatility of the stock market, how is everyone being affected by their investment. Have anyone sold some of their individual stocks and how is this done and once you have sold where does the money go? I just want to keep my ETFs and maybe two of my individual stocks.

How's everyone feeling about the stock market? Is the news worrying you and making you change your plan or are you full steam ahead?

Hey! I recall you mentioned a group chat or something similar where everyone can communicate. Is that some still coming down the pike or are there other things in store? 💙

I recently signed up for a course at my local community college called: Stocks Bonds, Investing: Oh my! I'm gaining a lot of insights from the Smart Start Investing community and this class -- I like to handle my own finances. I'll acquire enough knowledge to understand what actions to take. I just viewed Nicole and Nadia's video on YouTube: (If We Started Investing In 2026, This Is What We Would Do!). Fantastic as usual. They always remind me that I don't have to hand over investing to someone else when I can manage it myself.

Happy New Year! As a federal employee, I did not understand the tax situations, including how pension, Social Security, and TSP withdrawals would impact my overall tax obligation. I have been quite occupied with understanding the tax implications that could affect my retirement investment portfolio if I do not implement withdrawal strategies correctly during retirement. I have successfully built a nice retirement nest egg through my pre-tax traditional TSP account while working in the Federal Government. At present, I am exploring ways to manage my tax responsibilities without incurring losses. I have sought advice from several financial advisors and planners to help me understand the withdrawal strategies required due to Retirement Minimum Distribution (RMDs), social security, and Medicare. I have decided to hire a company that provides a fee-only service (one-time fee) to create a plan detailing the withdrawal strategies concerning the timing and amounts. Once, I get the information, I will move the money to a Roth IRA so that my money can grow tax-free. I am still watching the Wealth Twins' videos and reading what's being posted on the Smart Start Investing platform which is helping me to keep my sanity.