**Connect with Us:**
- Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@fordfinancialgroup
- Subscribe to the Casual Friday - Financial Insights podcast: Apple and Spotify
- Share your stories or questions: info@FordFG.com
- Find us on the Web: FordFG.com

The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results.

There is no assurance that the views or strategies discussed are suitable for all investors. To determine which investment(s) may be appropriate for you, consult your financial professional prior to investing. Investing involves risks including possible loss of principal. No investment strategy or risk management technique can guarantee return or eliminate risk. Indexes are unmanaged statistical composites and cannot be invested into directly. Index performance is not indicative of the performance of any investment and do not reflect fees, expenses, or sales charges. The economic forecasts set forth in this material may not develop as predicted.

The advisors of Ford Financial Group are Registered Representatives with and securities are offered through LPL Financial member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advice offered through Perennial Investment Advisors, a registered investment advisor. Ford Financial Group and Perennial Investment Advisors are separate entities from LPL Financial. Ford Financial Group, Perennial Investment Advisors, and LPL Financial do not provide tax advice or services.

Send in your questions!

This week Brian and Ryan sit down with Marc Fowler, 401(k) expert and representative of Human Interest, to discuss why 2025 is a pivotal year for small businesses to start offering a 401(k) plan. If you’re a business owner who hasn’t yet taken the plunge, this episode is packed with actionable insights on why now is the time.

Key Takeaways

1. Tax Incentives Are Better Than Ever
   • Marc explains how recent legislation, such as the SECURE Act 2.0, offers significant tax credits for small businesses starting a retirement plan. These credits can cover a substantial portion of plan setup costs.
2. Boost Employee Retention
   • A robust benefits package, including a 401(k), can help attract and retain top talent in an increasingly competitive job market. Marc shares data on how retirement benefits impact employee satisfaction.
3. Retirement Savings for Business Owners
   • A 401(k) doesn’t just benefit employees—it’s also a powerful tool for business owners to save for their own retirement in a tax-advantaged way.
4. Plan Costs Are Lower Than You Think
   • Thanks to advancements in technology and increased competition, the cost of offering a 401(k) plan has decreased dramatically over the last three years. Marc highlights how affordable it has become for small businesses.

Featured Articles and Resources

• Wall Street Journal: Older Workers Can Now Supersize Their 401(k) Savings
  This article dives into the new “super catch-up” contributions for workers aged 60 and older, starting in 2025. Learn how this feature can help both employees and business owners boost their retirement savings.
• PlanSponsor: Plan Sponsors May Be Paying Too Much in DC Plan Fees
  Discover how 401(k) fees have dropped significantly, making it easier for small businesses to afford these plans without sacrificing quality.

Connect With Us

- Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@fordfinancialgroup
- Subscribe to the Casual Friday - Financial Insights podcast: Apple and Spotify
- Share your stories or questions: info@FordFG.com
- Find us on the Web: FordFG.com

The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results.

There is no assurance that the views or strategies discussed are suitable for all investors. To determine which investment(s) may be appropriate for you, consult your financial professional prior to investing. Investing involves risks including possible loss of principal. No investment strategy or risk management technique can guarantee return or eliminate risk. Indexes are unmanaged statistical composites and cannot be invested into directly. Index performance is not indicative of the performance of any investment and do not reflect fees, expenses, or sales charges. The economic forecasts set forth in this material may not develop as predicted.

The advisors of Ford Financial Group are Registered Representatives with and securities are offered through LPL Financial member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advice offered through Perennial Investment Advisors, a registered investment advisor. Ford Financial Group and Perennial Investment Advisors are separate entities from LPL Financial. Ford Financial Group, Perennial Investment Advisors, and LPL Financial do not provide tax advice or services.

Send in your questions!

In this episode, Ryan and Brian explore the U.S. national debt as it approaches a staggering $36 trillion—a figure that has nearly quadrupled since before the 2008 global financial crisis. With the federal debt growing every year since 2001, it’s a topic that continues to spark heated debates over budget deficits, the debt ceiling, government shutdowns, and stimulus spending.

Now that the election is behind us, the focus shifts to the incoming administration’s policy proposals and cabinet nominations. But what does the growing national debt mean for the economy, markets, and your investment strategy?

We break down:

• The history and rapid growth of the national debt.
• The economic and market implications of government spending.
• How investors can stay focused on long-term drivers amid fiscal uncertainty.

Tune in to gain clarity on this complex topic and learn how to navigate the challenges and opportunities ahead.

**Connect with Us:**
- Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@fordfinancialgroup
- Subscribe to the Casual Friday - Financial Insights podcast: Apple and Spotify
- Share your stories or questions: info@FordFG.com
- Find us on the Web: FordFG.com

The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results.

There is no assurance that the views or strategies discussed are suitable for all investors. To determine which investment(s) may be appropriate for you, consult your financial professional prior to investing. Investing involves risks including possible loss of principal. No investment strategy or risk management technique can guarantee return or eliminate risk. Indexes are unmanaged statistical composites and cannot be invested into directly. Index performance is not indicative of the performance of any investment and do not reflect fees, expenses, or sales charges. The economic forecasts set forth in this material may not develop as predicted.

The advisors of Ford Financial Group are Registered Representatives with and securities are offered through LPL Financial member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advice offered through Perennial Investment Advisors, a registered investment advisor. Ford Financial Group and Perennial Investment Advisors are separate entities from LPL Financial. Ford Financial Group, Perennial Investment Advisors, and LPL Financial do not provide tax advice or services.

Send in your questions!