December 13, 2025 • 27 mins
This week on Forever Young, Kelly Kelly and her son William share a heartfelt conversation about preparing for the holidays. They reflect on Kelly Financial’s Christmas Drop-By and Toy Drive, the joy of spending time with clients and their families, and the inspiring generosity that filled the room. They also talk about getting ready for Christmas at home and the meaningful traditions that make this season so special.
Mike Doucette and Greg Workman take us into the world of retirement technology explaining how artificial intelligence is already embedded in many portfolios and why smart diversification still matters most for long-term confidence.
Mary Madeline Kelly and Greg Murray highlight the importance of naming a Trusted Contact on your accounts one small step that can provide added protection and peace of mind heading into the new year.
Kelly & William Return: Balancing holiday traditions with smart planning so you can enjoy Christmas without overspending in retirement.
And as always, we end the hour with a bit of Wit & Wisdom from Bill Kelly.
Make Safe Money Strategies part of your Saturday night tradition. Have questions or want to schedule a complimentary consultation? Call 888-800-1881 or email kelly@kellyfinancial.org.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Episode Transcript
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Speaker 1 (00:00):
Discover safe money strategies with Kelly. Kelly and her team
called Kelly Financial at eighty eight eight hundred one eighty
one or visit Kelly Financial dot org. Hello.
Speaker 2 (00:16):
This is Greg Murray, Senior vice president and Chief Compliance
Officer at Kelly Financial Services. Joining me this evening is
Mary Madeline Kelly Wannabrow Wealth Advisors. How are you doing tonight?
Speaker 3 (00:26):
I'm great, Greg. It feels like December is just flying
by and everyone is in that end of year mode
holiday events, getting organized and checking things off the list.
It's busy, but it's a fun kind of busy.
Speaker 2 (00:39):
And the end of your mindset is a perfect time
to tie up some of those important financial loose ends,
the things that don't take long but can make a
big difference. And that brings us to tonight's topic. Why
adding a trusted contact to your account is so important?
Speaker 3 (00:52):
Yes, and this is one of those things a lot
of people don't even realize that they need. A trusted
contact is simply someone you authorize your financial firm to
reach out to if there's ever a concern about your account,
especially if they can't reach you or something just doesn't
seem right exactly.
Speaker 2 (01:07):
And one of the biggest misunderstandings I'd like to clarify
is that a trusted contact does not have access to
your money. They can't make trades, they can't withdraw funds,
and they can't change your account. They're just the point
of contact, a safeguard.
Speaker 3 (01:19):
It's like adding an emergency contact, but for your finances.
If there's ever unusual activity, a missed R and D,
trouble reaching you, concerns about fraud, or signs of cognitive decline,
your advisor has someone you trust that they can speak to.
Speaker 2 (01:34):
And unfortunately, these situations do come up. We've seen cases
where someone becomes ill, loses a phone, has an unexpected
medical event, or even falls victim to a scam. When
we have a trusted contact on file, we can intervene
quickly and appropriately.
Speaker 3 (01:47):
Absolutely, and especially as people get older, this becomes really important.
The financial industry has a rise in elder financial abuse,
everything from scam calls to fake charities to online fraud.
Having trusted contact can help spot something that doesn't seem
right before it becomes a major problem.
Speaker 2 (02:05):
It's also helpful in more routine situations. Let's say we
notice a client hasn't taken their RMD and we can't
reach them. With a trusted contact, we can reach out
to someone you trust to just make sure they're okay
and avoid penalties.
Speaker 3 (02:17):
Or if there's a sudden change in your withdrawal plan,
or if someone tries to make an unusual transfer, it
gives us a second set of eyes to verify that
everything is legitimate and in your best interest.
Speaker 2 (02:28):
Another thing people might not realize is that regulators now
encourage firms as clients for a trusted contact. It's considered
a best practice for protecting investors, especially retirees.
Speaker 3 (02:38):
Yes, and it's totally voluntary, but highly recommended. You can
choose a child, a sibling, a close friend, or even
a professional like an attorney. The key is that it's
someone who knows you well and would act in your
best interest.
Speaker 2 (02:51):
In the best part, you can change your trusted contact
at any time if life circumstances change, maybe you want
to add someone new or remove someone. It's as simple
as updating.
Speaker 3 (02:59):
A four and it only takes a minute, but that
minute could save you or your family from a huge
financial headache down the road. It's one of the easiest
protections you can put in place.
Speaker 2 (03:08):
So for our listeners here the main reasons adding a
trusted contact is important. They help protect you from fraud
and financial exploitation. They can be contacted if you're unreachable.
They help advisors verify in usual activity, They provide extra
support in emergencies or health related situations. And they have
no access to your money, only to communicate perfect summary.
Speaker 3 (03:29):
This is all about providing an extra layer of security
and giving yourself and your family more peace of mind.
Speaker 2 (03:34):
Absolutely, at Kelly Financial, when the client adds a trust
in contact, it gives us the ability to step in
at the right time, not to interfere, but to protect
because at.
Speaker 3 (03:43):
The end of the day, financial planning isn't just about
growing your money, It's about safeguarding it and making sure
your wishes are respected.
Speaker 2 (03:50):
Well said. So, if you haven't added a trusted contact
to your accounts yet, now is a great time to
do it, especially as we wrap up the end of
the year. It's quick, it's simple, and it might be
one of the most importance aps you take this season.
Speaker 3 (04:01):
And of course, if you need help updating your accounts
or have questions about whom to choose, give us a call.
We're always here to help.
Speaker 2 (04:07):
Absolutely that's going to wrap things up. Thank you for
your time, Mary Madeline, you.
Speaker 3 (04:11):
Too, Greg, have a great weekend.
Speaker 1 (04:14):
Save Money Strategies with Kelly Kelly and her team called
Kelly Financial at eighty eight eight hundred and one or
go to Kelly Financial dot org. That's Kelly at Kelly
Financial dot org.
Speaker 4 (04:34):
Welcome back to Save Money Strategies. I'm Kelly Kelly with
my son William, and we are talking tonight about creating
a holiday that is both joyful and financially responsible, something
every retiree deserves.
Speaker 1 (04:50):
And one of the best ways to make the season
more enjoyable is to lead with purpose. When retirees decide
why they want to celebrate the way they do, it
becomes easier to say yes to the things that bring
joy and know to the things that just cost money.
Speaker 4 (05:04):
Purpose protects your piece. If you know what matters most,
quality time with family, faith, traditions, simplicity, then holidays spending
becomes intentional. You spend where it counts, and you skip
the extras that used to sneak into the car.
Speaker 1 (05:22):
There's a really interesting survey that shows people who set
a spending intention at the start of the season spend
up to thirty percent less and they report and join
the holidays more. Purpose is a powerful budget tool.
Speaker 4 (05:33):
And when you think about gift giving through the same lens,
it opens up possibilities that are far more meaningful. A
heartfelt letter, a favorite Christmas poem you love to read
each year, a framed photo from a special moment. Things
that say I love you, I'm proud of you, I'm
(05:54):
thankful for you.
Speaker 1 (05:55):
We have to say meaning is the most valuable gift
you can give, and retirees are uniquely positioned to give
meaning because they carry wisdom and memories that only they
can share.
Speaker 4 (06:06):
And when you do choose to purchase gifts, set boundaries
that protect your budget. That might be a family wide
limit or deciding that only the kids receive gifts this year.
Those kinds of decisions foster gratitude instead of financial stress.
Speaker 1 (06:24):
And I always remind people gifts don't have the last forever,
but the message in a handwritten card often does.
Speaker 4 (06:30):
That's beautifully said. Now let's talk about traditions, because that's
another place where tirees can feel pressure. Hosting, decorating, cooking.
Those are gifts of time, energy, and money. It's okay
to simplify without losing any of the magic.
Speaker 1 (06:49):
Absolutely, you can build joy with creativity, not cash. Maybe
you invite the grandchildren over to decorate cookies using supplies
you already have. Maybe you host a family game night
instead of a big night out. Maybe it's as simple
as putting on Christmas music and watching old home videos.
Speaker 4 (07:05):
We always encourage listeners. If you want to create a
new tradition this easy and affordable, start small and keep
it fine. If everyone enjoys it, it becomes something you
look forward to every year without straining the budget.
Speaker 1 (07:21):
And food is a big budget category, so plan ahead.
Grocery prices have been stubborn lately, and retirees feel that
more than anyone, because essentials make up a bigger portion
of spending in retirement.
Speaker 4 (07:33):
Yes, shop earlier when prices are better, use store coupons
and apps. Those savings add up quickly. When you're cooking
for a family, and don't hesitate to ask others to
pitch in. People love to help. It makes the meal
more communal.
Speaker 1 (07:51):
Travel is another one. If family is spread out, take
turns visiting each other every year instead of always making
the long trip, or choose a less expensive travel window.
If you can't there are so many ways to celebrate
without over committing financially.
Speaker 4 (08:04):
And what we've seen is that unrealistic expectations can lead
to stress and even disappointment. But when families talk openly,
everything gets easier. It might sound like we want a
meaningful and simple Christmas this year. Let's focus on time together.
Speaker 1 (08:23):
Simple, clear, and loving. That kind of honesty keeps the holidays.
Speaker 4 (08:27):
Joyful, and that brings us to the bigger financial picture.
Retirement is a long journey. You want to enjoy these
holidays year after year, so protecting your purchasing power matters.
Inflation isn't just a headline. It affects the core of
your lifestyle. Food, gas, utilities, prescriptions, travel, Those are the
(08:53):
real categories that impact retirees most.
Speaker 1 (08:57):
Without a plan, inflation feels like this invisible shipping away
at the lifestyle you worked so hard to build. But
with a plan, retirees feel confident and calm even when
prices are moving around them.
Speaker 4 (09:08):
And that's what a fiduciary advisor does. Helps make sure
your retirement income is positioned to keep up with rising
cost so you can spend time with the people you love.
Knowing the numbers.
Speaker 1 (09:22):
Make sense, we want this to be a season of joy,
not anxiety about your budget.
Speaker 4 (09:27):
That's exactly why we put together our free resource called
Inflation and your Retirement is designed specifically for retirees, so
you can clearly understand what inflation is actually doing to
your retirement income, why everyday essentials hit seniors harder, how
(09:48):
to create an income strategy that keeps your lifestyle steady,
smart steps to protect your purchasing power, and how to
plan ahead so you can avoid financial strain in the future.
Speaker 1 (10:02):
It's practical, it's straightforward, and it gives you the right
questions to ask, whether you're reviewing your plan for the
first time or checking in to make sure things still
align with your goals.
Speaker 4 (10:12):
If you're listening right now and thinking, I want the
holidays to fill light again, and I want a plan
that supports that feeling going forward, this guide is a
great place to start. To request your free copy, just
call us at eight eight eight eight hundred eighteen eighty
one or send an email to Kelly at Kellyfinancial dot org.
(10:37):
We'd love to help you approach this season and all
the seasons ahead with confidence, clarity, and peace of mind.
Speaker 1 (10:46):
Mom, I think that's the perfect holiday gift not just
for yourself, but for your whole family.
Speaker 4 (10:52):
I agree, well said, and that wraps it up for
us tonight, William. We'll be back next week with more
strategy jeez to help you live a financially secure and
fulfilling retirement. Until then, from all of us at Kelly
Financial Services, we wish you a wonderful weekend and a
(11:13):
very merry Christmas. You're listening to Safe Money Strategies right
here on WBZ.
Speaker 1 (11:22):
Safe Money Strategies with Kelly Kelly and her team called
Kelly Financial at eighty eight eight one, or go to
Kelly Financial dot org. That's Kelly at Kelly Financial dot org.
Speaker 5 (11:38):
Welcome back to Safe Money Strategies. I'm Mike Ducett. Before
the break, Greg Workman and I discussed the huge role
AI now plays across almost every company and every sector,
and why most retirees are already exposed to AI, whether
they realize it or not. Now, let's dig into how
AI is influencing the markets and what that means for
(11:59):
billilding a stable, resilient retirement portfolio.
Speaker 6 (12:03):
One of the biggest issues we're seeing is that AI
has created a separation between companies that are perceived as
AI leaders and companies that are simply AI adopters.
Speaker 5 (12:15):
Leaders like Navidia, the Metas of the world, the Microsoft's
are getting huge valuation premiums because the market sees them
as the ones building the AI infrastructure.
Speaker 6 (12:26):
Meanwhile, thousands of companies are quietly using AI, getting real
efficiency gains and boosting profits, but without the headline hype.
Speaker 5 (12:36):
And that's where we think long term investors can benefit.
AI doesn't just reward the companies making the chips. It
rewards the companies using AI to reduce labor costs, improve forecasting,
reduce waste, optimize pricing, enhance customer experiences, and increased productivity
(12:57):
without hiring.
Speaker 6 (12:58):
But in the short term, those benefits don't get priced
in evenly. That's why we see pockets of overvaluation and
pockets of undervaluation. The danger is when investors assume AI
leadership is concentrated in just one or two stocks, when
in reality, AI's success is distributed across the entire global economy.
Speaker 5 (13:22):
This is why diversification isn't old fashioned. It's more important
than ever because the question is not which single stock
will be the next AI winner. The question is how
do we position your portfolio, so you have the potential
benefit no matter which companies end up leading five years
from now.
Speaker 6 (13:41):
History teaches us a valuable lesson. The companies that we
think will dominate the next decade, oftentimes are not the
ones that actually do.
Speaker 5 (13:52):
Think back to the early two thousands, Nokia dominated mobile phones,
AOL dominated the internet, Intel dominated chips, Sony dominated entertainment,
GE dominated industrials.
Speaker 6 (14:06):
Today, none of those names that you mentioned, Mike, are
market leaders. That's why being overly concentrated in the quote
unquote sure thing stocks is a dangerous game to play,
especially for retirees without a paycheck.
Speaker 5 (14:22):
Let's bring in another client story, because I think many
listeners will relate.
Speaker 6 (14:26):
We met with a client we'll call him Richard. He
had built a large position in tech stocks over the
course of time. He didn't do it intentionally, It happened slowly.
Speaker 5 (14:38):
He had a couple of ETFs that were tech heavy.
He reinvested dividends for years, a few individual names had
grown tremendously, and suddenly he found himself with forty two
percent of his entire portfolio in AI oriented tech companies.
Speaker 6 (14:52):
When everything was going up. Well, that felt great, but
then he retired and suddenly that roller coaster ride or
volatility was and so fun anymore.
Speaker 5 (15:01):
We stress tested his portfolio. If the tech sector had
a normal correction, not a crash, just a normal twenty
to twenty five percent pullback, it would have created a
ten percent decline in his total retirement savings.
Speaker 6 (15:14):
And that's dangerous when you're drawing income from your nest egg.
A ten percent drop in early on in retirement can
take years of longevity off your portfolio.
Speaker 5 (15:26):
What we explained to Richard is that he didn't need
to sell everything. He didn't need to abandon AI or
abandon tech. What he needed was balance.
Speaker 6 (15:35):
We rebalanced him into broad US exposure, international stocks that
we see benefiting from the artificial intelligence trend, high quality
bonds intended to soften the ride, dividend focused equities to
provide a steady stream of income behind the scenes, and
a small intentional tech allocation instead of a larger accidental one.
Speaker 5 (16:00):
After rebalancing, we ran the stress test again. His outcomes
improved and he still kept enough tech exposure to participate
in AI driven growth without the tail risk that could
threaten his retirement income.
Speaker 6 (16:13):
AI affects investments absolutely, but it doesn't change the core
principles of retirement income planning.
Speaker 5 (16:21):
That's right. Whether AI is booming or slowing down, retirees
still need a stable income plan. They need a predictable
withdrawal strategy, strategies designed to minimize volatility and protection against inflation.
They're also looking for tax efficiency in a plan that
keeps working even in down markets.
Speaker 6 (16:40):
You don't want to rely on a high growth tech
sector to fund your lifestyle. You want your lifestyle to
be funded by a blend of dependable, repeatable income sources.
Speaker 5 (16:51):
AI exposure can be part of your growth sleeve, but
it should never be the engine driving one hundred percent
of your retirement income.
Speaker 6 (16:59):
Let's give our listener is something actionable. Here are three
steps retirees can take right now to participate in AI
without taking on more risk than they bargain for. Step one,
know your current AI exposure.
Speaker 5 (17:17):
Most retirees don't realize how heavily their index funds and
diversified portfolios already lean toward AI driven companies.
Speaker 6 (17:25):
Step one is simply understanding what you own. We run
this analysis for clients every week and it's a real
eye opener. Step two, avoid concentration.
Speaker 5 (17:37):
Risk, no matter how exciting AI is you don't want
more than a reasonable percentage of your portfolio tied to
a single company or even a single sub sector.
Speaker 6 (17:47):
If TECH makes up forty percent or more of your portfolio,
especially in retirement, well that's a red flag. Step three,
build AI into a balanced porto.
Speaker 5 (18:01):
Diversification means you get exposure to the builders of AI,
the deployers of AI, the users of AI, and the
traditional companies benefiting from AI efficiencies.
Speaker 6 (18:12):
This is designed to give you broad participation, smoother performance,
and aimed at relative outperformance when the markets move against you.
Speaker 5 (18:23):
AI is exciting and it's raal. It's not a fad,
but hype can pull people out of their financial plan.
Speaker 6 (18:29):
The winners in retirement are the people who stayed disciplined, diversified,
and balanced. They don't chase headlines and they don't try
to predict which tech company will dominate the future.
Speaker 5 (18:41):
They follow a plan, and that plan includes the right
amount of exposure to innovation.
Speaker 6 (18:46):
If Tonight's conversation made you wonder how much AI exposure
you actually have in your portfolio, or whether you're taking
on more risk than you may have intended, give us
a call.
Speaker 5 (18:58):
We'll walk you through a full portfolio analysis, including how
much of your current holdings are being driven by AI,
how much concentration risk you may have, and what steps
you can take to bring everything into balance.
Speaker 6 (19:10):
And we'll also send you a free copy of our
Safe Money Strategies retirement workbook. It covers income planning, tax efficiency,
RMD strategies, social security timing and much more. With that,
I'm Greg Workman.
Speaker 5 (19:27):
And I'm Mike du said you've been listening to Safe
Money Strategies. We'll see you next week.
Speaker 4 (19:34):
I'm Kelly Kelly from Kelly Financial. Whether you're in your forties, fifties,
or sixties, financial advice is important when it comes to
preserving your nest egg. We have a free investor guide
called Designing your Fiscal House to Weather the Elements, which
highlights the steps needed to build a balance portfolio. For
the guide, call eight eight eight eight hundred and eighteen
(19:56):
eighty one or email Kelly at Kelly Financial dot org.
We're Kelly Financial. Come retire with us.
Speaker 1 (20:04):
Call us today at eight eight hundred and eighty one
or visit us online at Kellyfinancial dot org to schedule
your complimentary retirement income analysis.
Speaker 4 (20:17):
Each week on Safe Money strategies. We share the voice
and vision that Bill Kelly Financial. In this segment, Bill
Kelly reminds us that your financial journey needs a GPS, goals,
possibilities and security and a team to help guide the way.
Here's Bill Kelly.
Speaker 7 (20:39):
This is Bill Kelly back with you. We're hoping that
you're able to lock in on this exclusive broadcast, which
is basically opportunity matching over the air, and you are
prospecting for possibilities, probably as you use your ears to
perhaps allay your fears and avoiding radio frequency fatigue and
focusing on facts. I think that works the best. But
(21:00):
there's one key question. Are you going to go and
a loan or are you going to go with a team?
And I think that's important. We use the GPS theory goals,
possibilities and security whenever possible. Security is never guaranteed, right.
We also might say guidance, potential, and strategic strategy. So
GPS means a lot right now. But the one thing
we know about GPS, it's directional, right, ladies and gentlemen.
(21:23):
So when it's directional, it means you have a path,
and if you have a GPS, generally it works. It
just has eliminated most of the fighting in automobiles unless
you're fighting about the GPS. Now you're not fighting about
directions with your better half, right, And it can be
that way with finances too. The goals, the path, the passage,
the pilgrimage, the strategy, and if you're going to be
(21:45):
sitting pretty that's the S word at the end of
all of this. Think about it. So there's a curiosity
phase to anything that we do. Isn't there something new
and you're getting used to a familiar voice, I think.
So you're looking for key areas of expertise, You're looking
for actions to improve or inspire. Retirement isn't just an event,
a one day event where you go in to pick
(22:06):
up the gold watch and then you leave and then
you say, wait a minute, I only got a gold watch.
And when that happens, some people have an emptiness. We
don't want you to have that. So if you're wondering
how to fill out those forms that are daunting, if
you're wondering if you're going to get a better deal
with a better strategy, then you probably might want to
call eight eight eight eight hundred one eight eight one
(22:28):
and find out there are actions to improve or inspire,
and those are for you to call it for our
informational free booklets eight eight eight eight hundred one eighty one.
If you want to introspect, you can take a survey
or test or a quiz. You can find out where
you stand. And as this happens, you begin to match
your needs with the solutions I hear every week, and
(22:51):
you're hearing today. So and my neighbors like it too.
So eight eight eight eight hundred and one, eight eight one,
And this is Bill Kelly. You could connect, connecting and converging.
When that happens, we get a great feeling. We have
a lot of connections, and most people say, I'm wondering
if I can do better. I'm interested in meeting the
team and I want to discover a difference. I think
(23:13):
that's what Kelly Financial is all about. So eight eight
eight eight hundred one, eight eighty one, get you a
meeting with us. You might enjoy that, but really fact
finding is key, isn't it. And we call that listening
and learning from you, and I think that's most important.
Everybody's nervous right now. We have a new president. We're
on different footing than we were a year ago, seven
(23:36):
years ago. But the first phase is fact finding, but
it's really listening and learning from you. You want to dell,
you want to dig, you want to investigate, and you
want to inspect. What's really happening, Ladies and John, what's
important to you? You're the investor. What keeps you awake
at night and then what allows you to sleep like
a baby. By the way, sleeping like a baby doesn't
(23:57):
mean waking up every two hours and crying. That's not
the kind of sleeping like a baby that you want.
As you know, the market's at an all time high,
and we know what happens after an all time high,
right every time, so be careful. Right, So you have
to lay out your priorities and maybe experience a team process.
That's Kelly Financial eight eight eight eight hundred one eight
(24:18):
eight one. I can say we've been consistent and we're
consistently here for you. So the exploring priorities, potential and
possibilities is your first contract at our offices, and that
includes objectives and obstacles. Now, when Stan came in several
years ago, we spoke with him and he had worries
about the market. He had moorries about interest rates, and
(24:39):
he had worries about security. So but the first thing
I told him was sit back and relax. Put those
papers away right now. Let's just find out what your
objectives are, and we'll show you if there are obstacles,
and we'll show you what your objectives really could mean
if we meet all of them. So learning about priorities,
we want to determine your possibilities. Don't want to determine
(25:00):
what the heck we can sell you. Think about that,
it's your potential, it's not ours. And are you going
to go alone or are you going to go with
a team of some of the most handsome and great
looking people on the face of the planet. And there's
a reason I'm one radio on there. Not ladies and
gentlemushes have to overlook that. Now, the second time you
visit with us, we call that the launch meeting, where
(25:21):
you're propelled, where we can expand upon your objectives and
some obstacles that might be there, and then unfold a
plan for you. Suggestions and solutions come to the surface,
and then we add some reason and purpose. So that's
the process. The process is not to try to get
you in the dark room. Get you to sign a
paper and then leave, put your money in jail, and
(25:42):
then allow you to visit it once a year. No,
that's not what we're trying to do. So eight eight
eight eight hundred and one eight eight one. Find out
what the possibilities and the potential and what can happen
for you if you plan properly. Eight eight eight eight
hundred and one eighty one. Visit with us and let
us help you plan for your future.
Speaker 4 (26:03):
I'm Kelly Kelly from Kelly Financial. Is your financial advisor
a fiduciary? In other words, are they legally required to
act in your best interest? My complimentary book, Retire Your Fear,
Plan Your Future explains what a fiduciary is and will
help you understand if an advisor is really putting you first.
For the book, call eight eight eight eight hundred eighteen
(26:25):
eighty one or email Kelly at Kellyfinancial dot org where
Kelly Financial. Come retire with us.
Speaker 1 (26:32):
Discover safe money strategies with Kelly Kelly and her team.
Called Kelly Financial at eighty eight eight hundred one eighty
one or visit Kelly Financial dot org.
Speaker 6 (26:52):
All opinions expressed by the host guests For employees of.
Speaker 1 (26:54):
Kelly Financial Services are solely their own and do not
reflect the opinions of Kelly Financial Services. Information has been
obtained from SIS is deemed to be reliable, but their
accuracy and completeness cannot be guaranteed. The information provided as
general in nature and is not intended to be specific investment, tax,
or legal advice. It is always advisable to consult a
professional before making a financial decision.
Discover safe money strategies with Kelly. Kelly and her team
called Kelly Financial at eighty eight eight hundred one eighty
one or visit Kelly Financial dot org. Hello.
Speaker 2 (00:16):
This is Greg Murray, Senior vice president and Chief Compliance
Officer at Kelly Financial Services. Joining me this evening is
Mary Madeline Kelly Wannabrow Wealth Advisors. How are you doing tonight?
Speaker 3 (00:26):
I'm great, Greg. It feels like December is just flying
by and everyone is in that end of year mode
holiday events, getting organized and checking things off the list.
It's busy, but it's a fun kind of busy.
Speaker 2 (00:39):
And the end of your mindset is a perfect time
to tie up some of those important financial loose ends,
the things that don't take long but can make a
big difference. And that brings us to tonight's topic. Why
adding a trusted contact to your account is so important?
Speaker 3 (00:52):
Yes, and this is one of those things a lot
of people don't even realize that they need. A trusted
contact is simply someone you authorize your financial firm to
reach out to if there's ever a concern about your account,
especially if they can't reach you or something just doesn't
seem right exactly.
Speaker 2 (01:07):
And one of the biggest misunderstandings I'd like to clarify
is that a trusted contact does not have access to
your money. They can't make trades, they can't withdraw funds,
and they can't change your account. They're just the point
of contact, a safeguard.
Speaker 3 (01:19):
It's like adding an emergency contact, but for your finances.
If there's ever unusual activity, a missed R and D,
trouble reaching you, concerns about fraud, or signs of cognitive decline,
your advisor has someone you trust that they can speak to.
Speaker 2 (01:34):
And unfortunately, these situations do come up. We've seen cases
where someone becomes ill, loses a phone, has an unexpected
medical event, or even falls victim to a scam. When
we have a trusted contact on file, we can intervene
quickly and appropriately.
Speaker 3 (01:47):
Absolutely, and especially as people get older, this becomes really important.
The financial industry has a rise in elder financial abuse,
everything from scam calls to fake charities to online fraud.
Having trusted contact can help spot something that doesn't seem
right before it becomes a major problem.
Speaker 2 (02:05):
It's also helpful in more routine situations. Let's say we
notice a client hasn't taken their RMD and we can't
reach them. With a trusted contact, we can reach out
to someone you trust to just make sure they're okay
and avoid penalties.
Speaker 3 (02:17):
Or if there's a sudden change in your withdrawal plan,
or if someone tries to make an unusual transfer, it
gives us a second set of eyes to verify that
everything is legitimate and in your best interest.
Speaker 2 (02:28):
Another thing people might not realize is that regulators now
encourage firms as clients for a trusted contact. It's considered
a best practice for protecting investors, especially retirees.
Speaker 3 (02:38):
Yes, and it's totally voluntary, but highly recommended. You can
choose a child, a sibling, a close friend, or even
a professional like an attorney. The key is that it's
someone who knows you well and would act in your
best interest.
Speaker 2 (02:51):
In the best part, you can change your trusted contact
at any time if life circumstances change, maybe you want
to add someone new or remove someone. It's as simple
as updating.
Speaker 3 (02:59):
A four and it only takes a minute, but that
minute could save you or your family from a huge
financial headache down the road. It's one of the easiest
protections you can put in place.
Speaker 2 (03:08):
So for our listeners here the main reasons adding a
trusted contact is important. They help protect you from fraud
and financial exploitation. They can be contacted if you're unreachable.
They help advisors verify in usual activity, They provide extra
support in emergencies or health related situations. And they have
no access to your money, only to communicate perfect summary.
Speaker 3 (03:29):
This is all about providing an extra layer of security
and giving yourself and your family more peace of mind.
Speaker 2 (03:34):
Absolutely, at Kelly Financial, when the client adds a trust
in contact, it gives us the ability to step in
at the right time, not to interfere, but to protect
because at.
Speaker 3 (03:43):
The end of the day, financial planning isn't just about
growing your money, It's about safeguarding it and making sure
your wishes are respected.
Speaker 2 (03:50):
Well said. So, if you haven't added a trusted contact
to your accounts yet, now is a great time to
do it, especially as we wrap up the end of
the year. It's quick, it's simple, and it might be
one of the most importance aps you take this season.
Speaker 3 (04:01):
And of course, if you need help updating your accounts
or have questions about whom to choose, give us a call.
We're always here to help.
Speaker 2 (04:07):
Absolutely that's going to wrap things up. Thank you for
your time, Mary Madeline, you.
Speaker 3 (04:11):
Too, Greg, have a great weekend.
Speaker 1 (04:14):
Save Money Strategies with Kelly Kelly and her team called
Kelly Financial at eighty eight eight hundred and one or
go to Kelly Financial dot org. That's Kelly at Kelly
Financial dot org.
Speaker 4 (04:34):
Welcome back to Save Money Strategies. I'm Kelly Kelly with
my son William, and we are talking tonight about creating
a holiday that is both joyful and financially responsible, something
every retiree deserves.
Speaker 1 (04:50):
And one of the best ways to make the season
more enjoyable is to lead with purpose. When retirees decide
why they want to celebrate the way they do, it
becomes easier to say yes to the things that bring
joy and know to the things that just cost money.
Speaker 4 (05:04):
Purpose protects your piece. If you know what matters most,
quality time with family, faith, traditions, simplicity, then holidays spending
becomes intentional. You spend where it counts, and you skip
the extras that used to sneak into the car.
Speaker 1 (05:22):
There's a really interesting survey that shows people who set
a spending intention at the start of the season spend
up to thirty percent less and they report and join
the holidays more. Purpose is a powerful budget tool.
Speaker 4 (05:33):
And when you think about gift giving through the same lens,
it opens up possibilities that are far more meaningful. A
heartfelt letter, a favorite Christmas poem you love to read
each year, a framed photo from a special moment. Things
that say I love you, I'm proud of you, I'm
(05:54):
thankful for you.
Speaker 1 (05:55):
We have to say meaning is the most valuable gift
you can give, and retirees are uniquely positioned to give
meaning because they carry wisdom and memories that only they
can share.
Speaker 4 (06:06):
And when you do choose to purchase gifts, set boundaries
that protect your budget. That might be a family wide
limit or deciding that only the kids receive gifts this year.
Those kinds of decisions foster gratitude instead of financial stress.
Speaker 1 (06:24):
And I always remind people gifts don't have the last forever,
but the message in a handwritten card often does.
Speaker 4 (06:30):
That's beautifully said. Now let's talk about traditions, because that's
another place where tirees can feel pressure. Hosting, decorating, cooking.
Those are gifts of time, energy, and money. It's okay
to simplify without losing any of the magic.
Speaker 1 (06:49):
Absolutely, you can build joy with creativity, not cash. Maybe
you invite the grandchildren over to decorate cookies using supplies
you already have. Maybe you host a family game night
instead of a big night out. Maybe it's as simple
as putting on Christmas music and watching old home videos.
Speaker 4 (07:05):
We always encourage listeners. If you want to create a
new tradition this easy and affordable, start small and keep
it fine. If everyone enjoys it, it becomes something you
look forward to every year without straining the budget.
Speaker 1 (07:21):
And food is a big budget category, so plan ahead.
Grocery prices have been stubborn lately, and retirees feel that
more than anyone, because essentials make up a bigger portion
of spending in retirement.
Speaker 4 (07:33):
Yes, shop earlier when prices are better, use store coupons
and apps. Those savings add up quickly. When you're cooking
for a family, and don't hesitate to ask others to
pitch in. People love to help. It makes the meal
more communal.
Speaker 1 (07:51):
Travel is another one. If family is spread out, take
turns visiting each other every year instead of always making
the long trip, or choose a less expensive travel window.
If you can't there are so many ways to celebrate
without over committing financially.
Speaker 4 (08:04):
And what we've seen is that unrealistic expectations can lead
to stress and even disappointment. But when families talk openly,
everything gets easier. It might sound like we want a
meaningful and simple Christmas this year. Let's focus on time together.
Speaker 1 (08:23):
Simple, clear, and loving. That kind of honesty keeps the holidays.
Speaker 4 (08:27):
Joyful, and that brings us to the bigger financial picture.
Retirement is a long journey. You want to enjoy these
holidays year after year, so protecting your purchasing power matters.
Inflation isn't just a headline. It affects the core of
your lifestyle. Food, gas, utilities, prescriptions, travel, Those are the
(08:53):
real categories that impact retirees most.
Speaker 1 (08:57):
Without a plan, inflation feels like this invisible shipping away
at the lifestyle you worked so hard to build. But
with a plan, retirees feel confident and calm even when
prices are moving around them.
Speaker 4 (09:08):
And that's what a fiduciary advisor does. Helps make sure
your retirement income is positioned to keep up with rising
cost so you can spend time with the people you love.
Knowing the numbers.
Speaker 1 (09:22):
Make sense, we want this to be a season of joy,
not anxiety about your budget.
Speaker 4 (09:27):
That's exactly why we put together our free resource called
Inflation and your Retirement is designed specifically for retirees, so
you can clearly understand what inflation is actually doing to
your retirement income, why everyday essentials hit seniors harder, how
(09:48):
to create an income strategy that keeps your lifestyle steady,
smart steps to protect your purchasing power, and how to
plan ahead so you can avoid financial strain in the future.
Speaker 1 (10:02):
It's practical, it's straightforward, and it gives you the right
questions to ask, whether you're reviewing your plan for the
first time or checking in to make sure things still
align with your goals.
Speaker 4 (10:12):
If you're listening right now and thinking, I want the
holidays to fill light again, and I want a plan
that supports that feeling going forward, this guide is a
great place to start. To request your free copy, just
call us at eight eight eight eight hundred eighteen eighty
one or send an email to Kelly at Kellyfinancial dot org.
(10:37):
We'd love to help you approach this season and all
the seasons ahead with confidence, clarity, and peace of mind.
Speaker 1 (10:46):
Mom, I think that's the perfect holiday gift not just
for yourself, but for your whole family.
Speaker 4 (10:52):
I agree, well said, and that wraps it up for
us tonight, William. We'll be back next week with more
strategy jeez to help you live a financially secure and
fulfilling retirement. Until then, from all of us at Kelly
Financial Services, we wish you a wonderful weekend and a
(11:13):
very merry Christmas. You're listening to Safe Money Strategies right
here on WBZ.
Speaker 1 (11:22):
Safe Money Strategies with Kelly Kelly and her team called
Kelly Financial at eighty eight eight one, or go to
Kelly Financial dot org. That's Kelly at Kelly Financial dot org.
Speaker 5 (11:38):
Welcome back to Safe Money Strategies. I'm Mike Ducett. Before
the break, Greg Workman and I discussed the huge role
AI now plays across almost every company and every sector,
and why most retirees are already exposed to AI, whether
they realize it or not. Now, let's dig into how
AI is influencing the markets and what that means for
(11:59):
billilding a stable, resilient retirement portfolio.
Speaker 6 (12:03):
One of the biggest issues we're seeing is that AI
has created a separation between companies that are perceived as
AI leaders and companies that are simply AI adopters.
Speaker 5 (12:15):
Leaders like Navidia, the Metas of the world, the Microsoft's
are getting huge valuation premiums because the market sees them
as the ones building the AI infrastructure.
Speaker 6 (12:26):
Meanwhile, thousands of companies are quietly using AI, getting real
efficiency gains and boosting profits, but without the headline hype.
Speaker 5 (12:36):
And that's where we think long term investors can benefit.
AI doesn't just reward the companies making the chips. It
rewards the companies using AI to reduce labor costs, improve forecasting,
reduce waste, optimize pricing, enhance customer experiences, and increased productivity
(12:57):
without hiring.
Speaker 6 (12:58):
But in the short term, those benefits don't get priced
in evenly. That's why we see pockets of overvaluation and
pockets of undervaluation. The danger is when investors assume AI
leadership is concentrated in just one or two stocks, when
in reality, AI's success is distributed across the entire global economy.
Speaker 5 (13:22):
This is why diversification isn't old fashioned. It's more important
than ever because the question is not which single stock
will be the next AI winner. The question is how
do we position your portfolio, so you have the potential
benefit no matter which companies end up leading five years
from now.
Speaker 6 (13:41):
History teaches us a valuable lesson. The companies that we
think will dominate the next decade, oftentimes are not the
ones that actually do.
Speaker 5 (13:52):
Think back to the early two thousands, Nokia dominated mobile phones,
AOL dominated the internet, Intel dominated chips, Sony dominated entertainment,
GE dominated industrials.
Speaker 6 (14:06):
Today, none of those names that you mentioned, Mike, are
market leaders. That's why being overly concentrated in the quote
unquote sure thing stocks is a dangerous game to play,
especially for retirees without a paycheck.
Speaker 5 (14:22):
Let's bring in another client story, because I think many
listeners will relate.
Speaker 6 (14:26):
We met with a client we'll call him Richard. He
had built a large position in tech stocks over the
course of time. He didn't do it intentionally, It happened slowly.
Speaker 5 (14:38):
He had a couple of ETFs that were tech heavy.
He reinvested dividends for years, a few individual names had
grown tremendously, and suddenly he found himself with forty two
percent of his entire portfolio in AI oriented tech companies.
Speaker 6 (14:52):
When everything was going up. Well, that felt great, but
then he retired and suddenly that roller coaster ride or
volatility was and so fun anymore.
Speaker 5 (15:01):
We stress tested his portfolio. If the tech sector had
a normal correction, not a crash, just a normal twenty
to twenty five percent pullback, it would have created a
ten percent decline in his total retirement savings.
Speaker 6 (15:14):
And that's dangerous when you're drawing income from your nest egg.
A ten percent drop in early on in retirement can
take years of longevity off your portfolio.
Speaker 5 (15:26):
What we explained to Richard is that he didn't need
to sell everything. He didn't need to abandon AI or
abandon tech. What he needed was balance.
Speaker 6 (15:35):
We rebalanced him into broad US exposure, international stocks that
we see benefiting from the artificial intelligence trend, high quality
bonds intended to soften the ride, dividend focused equities to
provide a steady stream of income behind the scenes, and
a small intentional tech allocation instead of a larger accidental one.
Speaker 5 (16:00):
After rebalancing, we ran the stress test again. His outcomes
improved and he still kept enough tech exposure to participate
in AI driven growth without the tail risk that could
threaten his retirement income.
Speaker 6 (16:13):
AI affects investments absolutely, but it doesn't change the core
principles of retirement income planning.
Speaker 5 (16:21):
That's right. Whether AI is booming or slowing down, retirees
still need a stable income plan. They need a predictable
withdrawal strategy, strategies designed to minimize volatility and protection against inflation.
They're also looking for tax efficiency in a plan that
keeps working even in down markets.
Speaker 6 (16:40):
You don't want to rely on a high growth tech
sector to fund your lifestyle. You want your lifestyle to
be funded by a blend of dependable, repeatable income sources.
Speaker 5 (16:51):
AI exposure can be part of your growth sleeve, but
it should never be the engine driving one hundred percent
of your retirement income.
Speaker 6 (16:59):
Let's give our listener is something actionable. Here are three
steps retirees can take right now to participate in AI
without taking on more risk than they bargain for. Step one,
know your current AI exposure.
Speaker 5 (17:17):
Most retirees don't realize how heavily their index funds and
diversified portfolios already lean toward AI driven companies.
Speaker 6 (17:25):
Step one is simply understanding what you own. We run
this analysis for clients every week and it's a real
eye opener. Step two, avoid concentration.
Speaker 5 (17:37):
Risk, no matter how exciting AI is you don't want
more than a reasonable percentage of your portfolio tied to
a single company or even a single sub sector.
Speaker 6 (17:47):
If TECH makes up forty percent or more of your portfolio,
especially in retirement, well that's a red flag. Step three,
build AI into a balanced porto.
Speaker 5 (18:01):
Diversification means you get exposure to the builders of AI,
the deployers of AI, the users of AI, and the
traditional companies benefiting from AI efficiencies.
Speaker 6 (18:12):
This is designed to give you broad participation, smoother performance,
and aimed at relative outperformance when the markets move against you.
Speaker 5 (18:23):
AI is exciting and it's raal. It's not a fad,
but hype can pull people out of their financial plan.
Speaker 6 (18:29):
The winners in retirement are the people who stayed disciplined, diversified,
and balanced. They don't chase headlines and they don't try
to predict which tech company will dominate the future.
Speaker 5 (18:41):
They follow a plan, and that plan includes the right
amount of exposure to innovation.
Speaker 6 (18:46):
If Tonight's conversation made you wonder how much AI exposure
you actually have in your portfolio, or whether you're taking
on more risk than you may have intended, give us
a call.
Speaker 5 (18:58):
We'll walk you through a full portfolio analysis, including how
much of your current holdings are being driven by AI,
how much concentration risk you may have, and what steps
you can take to bring everything into balance.
Speaker 6 (19:10):
And we'll also send you a free copy of our
Safe Money Strategies retirement workbook. It covers income planning, tax efficiency,
RMD strategies, social security timing and much more. With that,
I'm Greg Workman.
Speaker 5 (19:27):
And I'm Mike du said you've been listening to Safe
Money Strategies. We'll see you next week.
Speaker 4 (19:34):
I'm Kelly Kelly from Kelly Financial. Whether you're in your forties, fifties,
or sixties, financial advice is important when it comes to
preserving your nest egg. We have a free investor guide
called Designing your Fiscal House to Weather the Elements, which
highlights the steps needed to build a balance portfolio. For
the guide, call eight eight eight eight hundred and eighteen
(19:56):
eighty one or email Kelly at Kelly Financial dot org.
We're Kelly Financial. Come retire with us.
Speaker 1 (20:04):
Call us today at eight eight hundred and eighty one
or visit us online at Kellyfinancial dot org to schedule
your complimentary retirement income analysis.
Speaker 4 (20:17):
Each week on Safe Money strategies. We share the voice
and vision that Bill Kelly Financial. In this segment, Bill
Kelly reminds us that your financial journey needs a GPS, goals,
possibilities and security and a team to help guide the way.
Here's Bill Kelly.
Speaker 7 (20:39):
This is Bill Kelly back with you. We're hoping that
you're able to lock in on this exclusive broadcast, which
is basically opportunity matching over the air, and you are
prospecting for possibilities, probably as you use your ears to
perhaps allay your fears and avoiding radio frequency fatigue and
focusing on facts. I think that works the best. But
(21:00):
there's one key question. Are you going to go and
a loan or are you going to go with a team?
And I think that's important. We use the GPS theory goals,
possibilities and security whenever possible. Security is never guaranteed, right.
We also might say guidance, potential, and strategic strategy. So
GPS means a lot right now. But the one thing
we know about GPS, it's directional, right, ladies and gentlemen.
(21:23):
So when it's directional, it means you have a path,
and if you have a GPS, generally it works. It
just has eliminated most of the fighting in automobiles unless
you're fighting about the GPS. Now you're not fighting about
directions with your better half, right, And it can be
that way with finances too. The goals, the path, the passage,
the pilgrimage, the strategy, and if you're going to be
(21:45):
sitting pretty that's the S word at the end of
all of this. Think about it. So there's a curiosity
phase to anything that we do. Isn't there something new
and you're getting used to a familiar voice, I think.
So you're looking for key areas of expertise, You're looking
for actions to improve or inspire. Retirement isn't just an event,
a one day event where you go in to pick
(22:06):
up the gold watch and then you leave and then
you say, wait a minute, I only got a gold watch.
And when that happens, some people have an emptiness. We
don't want you to have that. So if you're wondering
how to fill out those forms that are daunting, if
you're wondering if you're going to get a better deal
with a better strategy, then you probably might want to
call eight eight eight eight hundred one eight eight one
(22:28):
and find out there are actions to improve or inspire,
and those are for you to call it for our
informational free booklets eight eight eight eight hundred one eighty one.
If you want to introspect, you can take a survey
or test or a quiz. You can find out where
you stand. And as this happens, you begin to match
your needs with the solutions I hear every week, and
(22:51):
you're hearing today. So and my neighbors like it too.
So eight eight eight eight hundred and one, eight eight one,
And this is Bill Kelly. You could connect, connecting and converging.
When that happens, we get a great feeling. We have
a lot of connections, and most people say, I'm wondering
if I can do better. I'm interested in meeting the
team and I want to discover a difference. I think
(23:13):
that's what Kelly Financial is all about. So eight eight
eight eight hundred one, eight eighty one, get you a
meeting with us. You might enjoy that, but really fact
finding is key, isn't it. And we call that listening
and learning from you, and I think that's most important.
Everybody's nervous right now. We have a new president. We're
on different footing than we were a year ago, seven
(23:36):
years ago. But the first phase is fact finding, but
it's really listening and learning from you. You want to dell,
you want to dig, you want to investigate, and you
want to inspect. What's really happening, Ladies and John, what's
important to you? You're the investor. What keeps you awake
at night and then what allows you to sleep like
a baby. By the way, sleeping like a baby doesn't
(23:57):
mean waking up every two hours and crying. That's not
the kind of sleeping like a baby that you want.
As you know, the market's at an all time high,
and we know what happens after an all time high,
right every time, so be careful. Right, So you have
to lay out your priorities and maybe experience a team process.
That's Kelly Financial eight eight eight eight hundred one eight
(24:18):
eight one. I can say we've been consistent and we're
consistently here for you. So the exploring priorities, potential and
possibilities is your first contract at our offices, and that
includes objectives and obstacles. Now, when Stan came in several
years ago, we spoke with him and he had worries
about the market. He had moorries about interest rates, and
(24:39):
he had worries about security. So but the first thing
I told him was sit back and relax. Put those
papers away right now. Let's just find out what your
objectives are, and we'll show you if there are obstacles,
and we'll show you what your objectives really could mean
if we meet all of them. So learning about priorities,
we want to determine your possibilities. Don't want to determine
(25:00):
what the heck we can sell you. Think about that,
it's your potential, it's not ours. And are you going
to go alone or are you going to go with
a team of some of the most handsome and great
looking people on the face of the planet. And there's
a reason I'm one radio on there. Not ladies and
gentlemushes have to overlook that. Now, the second time you
visit with us, we call that the launch meeting, where
(25:21):
you're propelled, where we can expand upon your objectives and
some obstacles that might be there, and then unfold a
plan for you. Suggestions and solutions come to the surface,
and then we add some reason and purpose. So that's
the process. The process is not to try to get
you in the dark room. Get you to sign a
paper and then leave, put your money in jail, and
(25:42):
then allow you to visit it once a year. No,
that's not what we're trying to do. So eight eight
eight eight hundred and one eight eight one. Find out
what the possibilities and the potential and what can happen
for you if you plan properly. Eight eight eight eight
hundred and one eighty one. Visit with us and let
us help you plan for your future.
Speaker 4 (26:03):
I'm Kelly Kelly from Kelly Financial. Is your financial advisor
a fiduciary? In other words, are they legally required to
act in your best interest? My complimentary book, Retire Your Fear,
Plan Your Future explains what a fiduciary is and will
help you understand if an advisor is really putting you first.
For the book, call eight eight eight eight hundred eighteen
(26:25):
eighty one or email Kelly at Kellyfinancial dot org where
Kelly Financial. Come retire with us.
Speaker 1 (26:32):
Discover safe money strategies with Kelly Kelly and her team.
Called Kelly Financial at eighty eight eight hundred one eighty
one or visit Kelly Financial dot org.
Speaker 6 (26:52):
All opinions expressed by the host guests For employees of.
Speaker 1 (26:54):
Kelly Financial Services are solely their own and do not
reflect the opinions of Kelly Financial Services. Information has been
obtained from SIS is deemed to be reliable, but their
accuracy and completeness cannot be guaranteed. The information provided as
general in nature and is not intended to be specific investment, tax,
or legal advice. It is always advisable to consult a
professional before making a financial decision.
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