Key Takeaways
- Revisiting your finances at the investment outlook forecasts U.S. stocks outperforming global peers while U.S. government bonds likely weaken after a rally in the first half of the year. Ask your Financial Advisor how you might want to position your portfolio for such conditions in light of your short- and long-term financial goals.
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Make Sure You’re on Track with Your GoalsAre you still tracking toward your key financial goals, such as saving and investing for a comfortable retirement? If recent changes in the market or other factors have temporarily thrown you off course, work with your Financial Advisor to figure out how you can get back on the right path.
Or, if you’re still on track, talk with your Financial Advisor about new goals you want to work toward. For example, in 2025, were you able to boost your contributions to your retirement savings or a loved one’s education fund? In 2026, can you contribute even more? Your Morgan Stanley Financial Advisor can help you look holistically at the year ahead and assess your progress towards your goals.
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Revisit Your Household BudgetIn addition to reviewing long-term goals, it’s also helpful to check on your nearer-term cash needs. Start by revisiting your household budget:
- First, compare your average monthly income with both fixed and variable expenses to identify where your money is going.
- Then, assuming you have extra funds in your budget after your necessary expenses, list your top priorities to help you figure out how you’ll use that money—whether it’s saving more, paying down debt, or building your emergency fund to help handle unexpected costs.
