Blog
Fill the Wagon '23 for the Children's Hospital of Georgia
It's time again to "Fill the Wagon" for the Children's Hospital of Georgia! Drop off donations to our office during business hours, now through Nov. 20. Thank you in advance for your support! Here is the link as well for the...
Read MoreSenior Citizen Day and Identity Theft with Tony
Tony recaps about National Senior Citizen Day and Identity Theft. He talks about the importance of preparing for your retirement dreams and appreciating the wisdom that comes with age. Also, He gives tips to help prevent identity theft...
Read MoreDon't Get Hooked: A Guide to Recognizing and Avoiding Phishing
As financial professionals, we understand how vital it is to safeguard your personal and financial information. Unfortunately, in our increasingly digital world, cybersecurity risks, such as phishing attacks, have become a prevalent...
Read MorePhilanthropic Values with GraniteArch Wealth Mgmt.
“It’s not what you’ve got, it’s what you give, that measures the worth of the life you live.” At GraniteArch Wealth Management, giving back is one of our core values. If you enjoy giving back whether to...
Read MoreMoney Tips for Parents Sending Children Off to College
You’ve done a great job teaching your children vital life lessons and instilling values that will last a lifetime. As summer ends and a new school year begins, one thing that shouldn’t be overlooked, especially for...
Read MoreShow All
Attention Parents and Grandparents of College-Bound Students: FAFSA Gets an Overhaul
Changes are coming to the complicated form that students must submit to qualify for college financial aid, known as the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).The Department of Education is calling it the “most...
Read MoreNational Corvette Museum with GraniteArch Wealth Mgmt.
Recently, we explored the National Corvette Museum in Bowling Green, KY. They say you should follow your dreams… I say you should drive it. If you share our passion for classic cars, please don't hesitate to contact us for...
Read MoreThe 6 Biggest Mistakes DIY Investors Make and How to Avoid Them
IntroductionOver the last several months, I have met with quite a few self-proclaimed do-it-yourself (DIY) investors who, after struggling with the markets in 2022, approached me asking for a second opinion. Interestingly, almost every...
Read MoreHow the SECURE 2.0 Act Changed 529 Plans
Changes to 529 Plans in the SECURE 2.0 ActThe SECURE Act was initially passed by Congress at the end of 2019 and was intended to improve retirement savings opportunities. It was a big deal at the time and the most significant piece of...
Read MoreExploring the Outdoors with GraniteArch Wealth Mgmt.
Experiencing great views is more valuable than merely capturing them. Recently, we had the opportunity to explore Banner Elk, North Carolina, and were awestruck by the stunning waterfalls. If you share our passion for the outdoors,...
Read MoreGraniteArch Wealth Mgmt Social Media Recap
Tony Gallo recaps this week's social media posts // July 7, 2023
Read MoreHealth Savings Accounts: Pros, Cons, and Retirement Considerations
What if your child needs braces? The cost may be as much as $6,000 for metal braces—more modern versions can run as much as $13,000. Your health insurance may cover only a portion of the cost. If you're well past the braces stage...
Read MoreGraniteArch Wealth Mgmt Social Media Recap
Tony Gallo recaps this week's social media posts // June 30, 2023
Read MoreTop 7 Most Common Estate Strategy Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)
Getting your affairs in order and outlining what you want done with your estate after you’re gone is one of the greatest gifts you can leave your loved ones. However, not preparing for the transfer of your assets can lead to...
Read MoreNavigating the Costs of Senior Care: Tips for Preparing for Long-Term Care
Senior care costs can be overwhelming, particularly when long-term care is required due to illness or medical conditions. With the number of seniors in the U.S. expected to rise exponentially by 2030, it's crucial to be prepared for...
Read MoreCruisin' with the Model A's
I attended the Shade Tree A's Model A regional show at the Augusta Museum this month. I saw many nice cars and met some fantastic people. Looking forward to attending more car shows in the future!
Read MoreLiving Trusts: Understanding the Basics and Key Considerations
Estate management can be a complex and daunting task for many people, but it’s a critical step in helping your assets get managed and distributed according to your wishes.One popular tool that can be used in estate strategies is...
Read MoreTrying to Time a Recession?
Economies move in cycles – always have, always willThe Federal Reserve has been steadily increasing interest rates in an attempt to slow the rate of inflation. Its efforts are yielding some results, although inflation remains...
Read MoreWhat Factors Have the Greatest Impact on Your Credit Score?
Fun fact: You probably have dozens of credit scores out there, and each one might be a different number.You’re probably familiar with a credit score, why it’s essential, and what it’s used for, but do you know how...
Read MoreImportant Financial Considerations to Make When Remarrying Later in Life
Discussing personal finances is important for any couple preparing for marriage. However, this topic can be more complicated for those who remarry later in life.If you’re remarrying later in life, one of your goals should be to...
Read MoreTop Considerations to Help Adult Children Be Better Prepared As You Age
As we get older, it’s important that our adult children are prepared to manage any aging-related situations that may arise. This includes everything from having to make medical and financial decisions to determining assisted...
Read MoreIn the Community: Women in Business Luncheon!
Eve Gallo, GraniteArch Wealth Mgt. and Sabrina Griffin, Vice President of Columbia County Chamber of Commerce, enjoyed the Women in Business luncheon! I was inspired by all the great women representing our wonderful county!
Read MoreTips for Raising Financially Literate Children
Every parent wants the best for their children and strives to prepare them to lead a happy, healthy, and successful life. But, despite understanding the importance of financial responsibility, only 28 percent of parents speak to their...
Read MoreTransitioning to Medicare from Private Health Insurance Plans
Transitioning from Private Health Insurance Plans to MedicareAs you approach retirement age, you may be anticipating transitioning from your private insurance to Medicare, which is a federal health insurance program that provides...
Read MoreIn the Community: Fill the Wagon
Now through November 14th, we will be collecting new, unwrapped toys, blankets and knitted hat donations for the patients at the Children's Hospital of Georgia. Supporting the hospital and programs like Camp Rainbow are very important...
Read MoreIn the Community: Ponies in the Plaza
The Mustang Club of America (MCA) recently held their Grand National Mustang Show for 2022 in Evans, GA on Sept 2-4. This event was held at the new Performing Arts Center, and GraniteArch Wealth Management was proud to be a sponsor of...
Read MoreIn the Community: State of the Community Address
Last week, my wife, Trudie, and I attended the 2022 State of the Community Address, hosted by the Columbia County Chamber of Commerce and the beautiful, new Columbia County Performing Arts Center in Evans, GA.
Read MoreConquering Retirement Challenges for Women
Conquering Retirement Challenges for WomenWhen it comes to retirement, women may face unique obstacles that can make saving for retirement more challenging. Given that women typically live longer than men, retirement money for women...
Read More3 Tips for the Second Half of 2022
With half the year behind us, now is a great time to consider what the remainder of 2022 may hold. However, with inflation and economic uncertainty causing many of us to delay or cancel vacations, large purchases, and more, it can be...
Read MoreIn the Community: Outdoor Dream Foundation Check Presentation
I was honored to represent the Kiwanis Club of Augusta last week as we presented the Outdoor Dream Foundation with a donation. Thank you to both these organization for making such an impact in the lives of children with terminal or...
Read MoreClient Appreciation Picnic
Thank you to everyone who came out on Saturday for our Client Appreciation Picnic! It was wonderful time of fellowship, delicious food from Wife Saver, and we are so grateful for the relationships we have made!
Read MoreIn the Community: Freedom Shrine Installation at Evans Elementary School
As a member of the Americanism Committee for the Columbia County Exchange Club, I greatly enjoyed leading the coordination efforts of installing these Freedom Shrine plaques in Evans Elementary School. The Columbia County...
Read MoreIn the Community: AUSA Greater Augusta-Fort Gordon Chapter
We are well into our first year as a Community Partner of AUSA Greater Augusta-Fort Gordon Chapter. Thank you to the organization for presenting me with a plaque at last week's monthly Breakfast and Briefing.
Read MoreIn the Community: Columbia County Chamber of Commerce Annual Banquet
As a member of the Columbia County Chamber of Commerce, I always enjoy attending events such as the Annual Banquet, which give me an opportunity to catch up with other Chamber members, fellow Leadership Columbia County alumni, and...
Read MoreVisiting with AdvisorNet Financial
Recently I had the pleasure of spending time with two of the team members, Scott Yeomans and Mike Townsend from AdvisorNet Financial, while they were in town. AdvisorNet is a network of financial advisors who have been providing...
Read More2022 Market Outlook Summary: Finding the Right Ingredients for the Next Course
Read More
In the Community: "Fill the Wagon" Update
On Wednesday, November 24, 2021, my wife, Trudie, daughter Eve, and son, Lawrence and I delivered toy, knitted hat and blanket donations to the Children's Hospital of Georgia for the staff to distribute and provide comfort and smiles...
Read MoreIn the Community: Trick or Treat So Others Can Eat
During Halloween weekend, I volunteered with the Columbia County Exchange Club at Trick or Treat So Others Can Eat. This event at Evans Towne Center Park provided a fun and safe trick-or-treat experience, with admission being one...
Read MoreIn the Community: First Responders of the Year Awards Reception
National First Responders Day is celebrated in October, and every year the Exchange Club of Columbia County hosts a First Responders of the Year Awards Presentation Ceremony at West Lake Country Club. As a member of the Exchange...
Read MoreIn the Community: Fill the Wagon
Now through November 19th, we will be collecting new, unwrapped toys, blankets and knitted hat donations for the patients at the Children's Hospital of Georgia. Supporting the hospital and programs like Camp Rainbow are very important...
Read MoreIn the Community: State of the Community Address
On September 9th the Columbia County Chamber of Commerce hosted the State of the Community Address. My wife, Trudie, and I attended and enjoyed mingling with fellow Chamber members and hearing from the panel of speakers which included...
Read MoreIn the Community: Food Truck Friday
Food Truck Fridays is a fun event hosted by Columbia County each month from May to September at the Columbia County Amphitheater. As a member of the Columbia County Exchange Club, Tony has been able to participate as a volunteer at the...
Read MoreIn the Community: Mix.Mingle.Mesh
Many thanks to the Augusta Metro Chamber of Commerce and Augusta Office Solutions for hosting this month's Mix.Mingle.Mesh! It was a wonderful opportunity to network with professionals in the community and to learn about other ways we...
Read MoreIn the Community: AUSA Breakfast & Briefing
They say it's the best breakfast in town, so we were excited to become one of the newest Community Partners for the Association of the United States Army (AUSA) Fort Gordon Chapter and attend the August "Breakfast & Briefing" at the...
Read MoreIn the Community: August Executive Luncheon Series
On August 18, team members from GraniteArch attended the Columbia County Chamber of Commerce's Executive Luncheon Series at the Savannah Rapids Pavilion. Bobby Christine, District Attorney for the newly formed Columbia County Judicial...
Read MoreDiversification, Patience, and Consistency
Regardless of how the markets may perform, consider making the following part of your investment philosophy: Diversification. The saying “don’t put all your eggs in one basket” has some application to investing. Over...
Read More