Canon Capital Wealth Management Continues Financial Literacy Seminars with “Financial Self-Defense” May 19, 2016

Financial fraud is on the rise. According to the Federal Trade Commission’s annual report, Identity theft incidents alone increased 47% in 2015.

Learn how to steer clear of financial fraud at the second in our series of Financial Literacy Seminars: Financial Self-Defense. During our time together we’ll help you improve your ability to spot the warning signs of financial fraud by sharing:

– How to identify common situations where consumers might be victimized
– Case studies of consumer financial abuse
– Ways you can protect yourself from financial fraud or abuse

The Financial Self-Defense Seminar will be held at our Hatfield office Thursday, May 19, 2016. For your convenience, we are offering this seminar at 3:00-4:00pm or 5:30-6:30pm.

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We expect this seminar will be both educational and eye-opening, so please feel free to bring a friend, relative or colleague. Please RSVP by Friday, May 13, 2016 to Jen Norman. You may RSVP via email or call 215-723-4881, ext. 207 to let us know whether you would like to attend the 3:00pm or 5:30pm session.

Our Financial Literacy Seminars are for adults of all ages with any level of financial knowledge. They’re ideal for individuals desiring to improve their ability to manage their financial resources effectively to meet their goals and gain a lifetime of financial security.

Canon Capital Management Group provides a single source of financial and business services to help you make the right decisions. For more information, visit www.canoncapital.com or call 215-723-4881.

Staying on the Cutting Edge: Canon Capital Wealth Management in the Classroom

 

 

Notice anyone familiar in this commercial from DeSales University? That’s right, our own Dr. Peter Roland is among the instructors included in this 30-second spot currently airing in the Delaware and Lehigh Valleys. In addition to Dr. Roland’s role as Managing Director here at Canon Capital, he has been teaching finance and accounting at DeSales University’s graduate MBA program for 25 years.

In order to serve our clients well, we believe it’s essential to stay on the forefront of the issues and developments in wealth management. Teaching is one of the most natural ways to accomplish this. We take seriously the trust you place in us and work to share our knowledge, whether in client consultation, teaching a college course or through our recently-launched Financial Literacy Initiative (The Kick-off Session can be accessed here.).

Canon Capital Management Group provides a single source of financial and business services to help you make the right decisions. Let us help you today. Visit www.canoncapital.com or call 215-723-4881.

Financial Self-Defense – Avoiding IRS Scams

During the recent Financial Self-Defense seminar presented by our Wealth Management division, we focused on the three main areas of financial fraud: preying on senior citizens, tax-related fraud, and general financial fraud.

With tax-related fraud, the most prevalent attempt comes from people or entities who call on the phone to try and fool you into thinking they are the IRS and that you owe them money. The IRS does not operate that way. In fact, here are six things the IRS will never do.

 

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Six Things the IRS Will Never Do

#1. Call to demand immediate payments over the phone, nor will the agency call about taxes owed without first having mailed you several bills.

#2. Call or email you to verify your identity by asking for personal and financial information.

#3. Demand that you pay taxes without giving you the opportunity to question or appeal the amount they say you owe.

#4. Require you to use a specific payment method for your taxes, such as a prepaid debit card.

#5. Ask for credit or debit card numbers over the phone or email.

#6. Threaten to immediately bring in local police or other law-enforcement groups to have you arrested for non-payment.

If you think you might have experienced this type of fraud and have questions, let us help you determine next steps. Learn more at www.canoncapital.com or call 215-723-4881.

“Financial Self-Defense” for Senior Citizens

With incidents of financial fraud on the rise, the second session in our Wealth Management division’s Financial Literacy series focused on “Financial Self-Defense.” The hour-long seminar focused on three main areas of financial fraud: preying on senior citizens, tax-related fraud, and general financial fraud. Today’s recap covering red flags for senior citizens is the first in a series of blog posts recapping the seminar.

Top Ten Red Flags of Senior Citizen Financial Fraud

#1. “He said he was certified to help people like me.”

If the financial advisor is telling you it’s normal procedure also to be the custodian of your account, be aware that this is not a financial management best practice. Two different entities should serve these roles.

#2. “Don’t worry about the details; they’ll just confuse you.”

Wrong. You have the right to get a second opinion from a trusted professional. If you don’t understand what is being said, don’t buy it.

#3. “You’re Invited! Wine, Dine and Learn!”

You have probably been invited to at least one of these events. You’re promised a nice meal and a presentation of the advisor’s services. Be aware, this type of practitioner usually counts on high up-front commissions. Don’t feel obligated to please by making a decision you could regret later.

#4. “You don’t want what you leave to your family or charity to be eaten away by taxes or fees, do you?”

Don’t give in to this tactic, designed to pressure or scare you into making a decision that is not in your best interest. Just because a so-called expert recommends it doesn’t mean it’s right for you.

#5. “Do you need more income from safe fixed-income investments? We’ll show you how!”

Beware these promises of high returns on small investments. If it sounds too good to be true, it’s probably not legitimate or safe.

 

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#6. “He’s one of us. I’m sure you can trust him.”

Always reserve the right to do your research. Even if an advisor is recommended from within your social circle, take the time to learn more, get a second opinion from an objective third party. Don’t confuse familiarity with trust.

#7. “I’ll take care of all the paperwork.”

Sounds perfect, right? Wrong. You want to see and understand all paperwork dealing with your money. The final sign-off should always be yours.

#8. “All of my clients in this fund are making a lot of money.”

Don’t feel pressure to follow the masses. In most cases, this tactic is designed to benefit the advisor more than you. Make sure the money others are making isn’t yours.

#9. “I’ve got a much better idea for your money.”

This perspective is a likely precursor to what’s known as “churning,” or excessively trading your account so the advisor receives more commission. Get as much information as possible about their proposal and get it checked.

#10. “Stop paying the bank for your house. Let the bank pay you!”

A reverse mortgage might sound like a great deal but be careful. Don’t sign over the deed to your property and know that you don’t have to take the payment in a lump sum. As a homeowner, you have rights. Make sure you know what they are before entering into this kind of agreement.

In any dealings with a financial advisor, there is no need for you to feel rushed or pressured into making a decision. Transparency and third party accountability are key. If you have questions, we would be happy to help. Learn more at www.canoncapital.com or call 215-723-4881.

Top Ten Red Flags of Financial Fraud

The recap of our recent “Financial Self-Defense” seminar concludes with a general overview of the red flags to be wary of when dealing with a financial advisor. You always have the right to pursue a second opinion and to take the time to think things over.

Top Ten Red Flags of Financial Fraud

#1. “We’ve known him forever. I’m sure you can trust him.”
This is the “friends and family” prospects model. Your friend’s nephew is just starting out at a financial firm. Do you mind if he meets with you? It’s not impolite to decline such a meeting or, if you agree, do your homework. Make sure this person is someone you truly would trust with your finances.

#2. “Just sign here. I’ll take care of the rest.”
Never leave blanks on your signed financial paperwork. It might be tempting but be present for the completion of your paperwork.

#3. “This is just for my special clients.”
Beware any offer labeled as “private” or “exclusive.” It rarely is. Ask whether your investments are regulated or supervised by independent third parties.

#4. “I’ll send you all of the investment reports.”
Make sure you receive reports from your advisor and the independent third party custodian of your accounts. Those reports should match.

#5. “Make the check payable to me.”
Your check should be made payable to the custodial entity. Never give a financial professional a blank check, no matter how trusted your relationship.

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#6. “I know it’s a difficult time, but you need to decide now.”
Take your time. If you’ve inherited some money, it’s recommended to take up to one year to decide how to manage these funds. Feel free to bring a trusted friend along to your appointment. Trust, but verify.

#7. “This one’s a no-brainer. You can’t lose.”
There’s prudence in financial management, but nothing is certain. Take your time. Get a second opinion. It’s your money.

#8. “This offer is only good today.”
Pressure selling is a common practice in the brokerage world. If anyone tries to force you into a decision using this tactic, steer clear.

#9. “I can replace that with something better.”
Understand how a financial professional earns their pay. Before agreeing to any transaction, carefully consider the charges you’ll incur and the timing involved.

#10. “It’s very complicated. No need to bother you with all the details.”
Don’t buy what you can’t understand. Make sure the advisor explains everything about your investments.

In addition to avoiding all of these red flags, it’s a good idea to designate a trusted friend or relative to handle your investments should something happen to you.

If you have questions about your investments or would like a second opinion, we’re happy to help. Contact us online or call 215-723-4881.

 

Miss the first two Financial Self-Defense: Financial Fraud Recaps? Read them now:

Financial Self-Defense: Avoiding IRS Scams

Financial Self-Defense for Senior Citizens

 

Canon Capital Wealth Management Welcomes Bradley Barnhorst, CFA

We are pleased to announce that Bradley Barnhorst, CFA, has joined Canon Capital’s Wealth Management group as Investment Committee Counsel. Brad’s expertise and experience – particularly in the area of investment and portfolio risk and volatility reduction — will enhance our ability to offer favorable investment solutions to our clients.

Before joining Canon Capital, Brad worked on Wall Street as an Associate Director with Bear, Stearns & Co., where he specialized in structured equity products and derivatives geared to mitigating investment risk. He is a recognized expert in investment portfolio risk and volatility reduction, with numerous published works in both scholarly and professional journals.

Brad also serves as the Chair of the Finance Major program for both the undergraduate and graduate divisions at DeSales University, a position he will retain along with his professor duties. Brad’s passion for research has led to the publishing of his finance-related work in both scholarly and professional journals.

Brad holds the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation and is a member of the CFA Institute, the Northeastern Association of Business, Economics, and Technology (NABET) where he serves on the Executive Board as Recording Secretary and the New York Society of Security Analysts.

Brad earned a Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science from Harvard University and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a concentration in Corporate Finance and Investment Management from Penn State University. Brad lives in Bath, PA with his wife and two daughters.

Canon Capital Wealth Management serves individuals, retirement plans, trustees, and institutions. If you or someone you know would like to find out more about the benefits of a relationship with our Wealth Management group, we encourage you to contact us.

Canon Capital Wealth Management Presents: Best Year-End Tax Strategies and Tips – A Financial Literacy Seminar

You are cordially invited to attend our fourth Financial Literacy seminar of the year on Thursday, November 10, 2016, from 3:00 to 4:00 pm eastern time at our Hatfield location. We’ve saved the best for last – this final Financial Literacy seminar of the year will cover Best Year-End Tax Strategies and Tips. This seminar will once again take place at our Hatfield location from 3:00-4:00 pm.

This seminar is geared toward individuals who wish to learn about and make use of tax savings strategies for the current year.

During this seminar, you’ll learn:

• Strategies to minimize taxes for the 2016 calendar year
• Tax law changes affecting 2016 returns
• Possible changes based on political party taxation policies

We expect this event will be both educational and informative so please feel free to bring a relative or friend who might benefit from the topic. Refreshments will be available.

Please RSVP by Monday, November 7, to Jen Norman via email, or by phone at 215-723-4881, ext. 207, to let us know that you would like to attend.

We look forward to seeing you at the event!

Canon Capital Wealth Management Presents: Financial Self-Defense Moves for Your Work Retirement Plan and IRA Assets

We are pleased to announce the third seminar in our series on Financial Literacy, Financial Self-Defense Moves for Your Work Retirement Plan and IRA Assets. Taking place Wednesday, September 21st in our Hatfield location, we are offering two sessions so you may attend at your convenience. The first session will run from 3:00-4:00 pm and the second 7:00-8:00 pm.

You will learn:

• Strategies to maximize your account assets in time for your retirement
• Retirement plan expenses and how excessive fees can eat into your account returns
• Tax implications – whether to use pre-tax or Roth contributions
• Different account features – what they are and tips on how to use them

The information provided in this seminar is based on the recently-published book – Your 401k, The Danger Within – which was co-written by Dr. Peter Roland, Managing Director and one of the founders of Canon Capital, and Roger Levy, CEO of Cambridge Fiduciary Services, LLC. Roger Levy’s name might sound familiar to you because he filed an amicus brief in support of the plaintiff, 401(k) plan participants, in the recent landmark Supreme Court case, Tibble v. Edison International.

This seminar is provided free of charge and is for any individuals desiring to maximize the amounts accumulated in their retirement accounts and also to learn what to look for when reviewing account investments, expenses, and service features.

Our time together will be both educational and informative. Please feel free to bring a relative or friend who might benefit from the topic. Every attendee will receive a free copy of Your 401k, The Danger Within, and Dr. Roland will be happy to sign your copy.

RSVP by Friday, 9/16/2016, to Jen Norman. You may RSVP via email or call 215-723-4881, ext. 207. Please let us know whether you would like to attend the 3:00 pm or 7:00 pm session.

Canon Capital Management Group provides a single source of financial and business services to help you make the right decisions. 

Do You Work in Philadelphia? Paid Sick Leave is Here

If your daily commute involves enduring the Schuylkill Expressway or hopping on Septa Regional Rail to Philadelphia, a city ordinance that took effect in May 2015 applies to you. Although you may live in the suburbs, if you are a full- or part-time employee who works at least 40 hours per year for a Philadelphia business the new “Promoting Healthy Families and Workplaces” ordinance brings you new benefits. What does this mean? Through this legislation, you now accrue one hour of paid sick leave for every 40 hours worked. The maximum for each year is 40 hours.

Most Employers with Less Than 10 Employees May be Exempt from Providing Paid Sick Leave

While this ordinance applies to all employers conducting business within the city of Philadelphia, those with less than 10 employees are required to provide only unpaid sick leave. They are required to do so, however, at the same rate as those businesses providing paid sick leave. The Philadelphia Department of Commerce reports that “certain chain establishments are required to provide paid sick leave regardless of the number of employees at the chain’s Philadelphia location.”

Expansive Coverage But Not All Types of Employees are Eligible

There are a few employment situations where this paid sick leave ordinance will not apply. According to this flyer from the Philadelphia Department of Commerce providing a summary of the legislation, it does not apply to:

  • Independent Contractors
  • Seasonal Workers
  • Adjunct Professors
  • Employees hired for a term of less than 6 months
  • Interns
  • Pool employees
  • Employees covered by collective bargaining agreements
  • State and Federal employees

To read the full legislation, click here. We are also happy to guide you through this new ordinance and answer any questions you might have as it relates to your payroll services. Contact us at 215-723-4881 or click here to contact us online.