Insights from Griffin Black

Market wisdom and financial perspective for those who seek clarity. Read our latest analysis on wealth building, investment strategy, and planning for what matters most.
Three adults sit at a table with documents, a laptop, and a calculator, discussing paperwork; one person holds a clipboard and listens attentively.
5 min read

Estate Planning: Important Considerations Amid Political Uncertainty

After a lifetime of working hard, saving diligently, and investing wisely, one of the key considerations is how to pass these assets to future generations. This is where estate planning comes in.
A notebook with "529 plan vs. Roth IRA?" written on a black page, next to a pen and calculator, suggesting a comparison of savings options.
4 min read

From College to Retirement: How 529 Plans Are Evolving

Saving for a child’s education is one of the most loving things you can do, and today’s 529 plans offer more flexibility than ever before. If you’ve been contributing to a 529, you may be wondering what options you have now that life (and legislation) has changed. At Griffin Black, we’re here to help you navigate those decisions with clarity and care. Here are a few timely opportunities worth knowing about.
A wooden surface painted with the Indian flag, overlaid with images of a U.S. visa and the words "United States of America.
5 min read

Navigating the Crossroads: Financial Planning Tailored for the Indian American Journey

The American Dream is a powerful narrative, often depicted as a steady path towards stability and prosperity. For many in the vibrant Indian American community, however, the journey feels less like a straight highway and more like navigating a series of crossroads, often accompanied by a significant degree of uncertainty. This inherent uncertainty, stemming from factors like visa status, potential future relocation, and unique cultural values, demands a financial planning approach that’s fundamentally different from the standard American model.
A close-up of a US 100 dollar bill featuring Benjamin Franklin and an Indian 100 rupee note featuring Mahatma Gandhi placed side by side.
4 min read

Why a US Perspective Is Crucial for Your Indian American Financial Life

As a member of the vibrant Indian American community, you likely navigate life with a unique blend of cultures, aspirations, and connections spanning two distinct continents. You might own property in Mumbai or Delhi while building a career in California, support family back home while saving for retirement in the US, or dream of spending significant time in both countries. This rich, cross-cultural life brings immense rewards. It also introduces significant complexity into your financial life.
An elderly woman stands with a cane next to a healthcare worker in scrubs, who is smiling and holding her arm in a supportive manner.
6 min read

Planning for Rising Health Care Costs and the Role of HSAs

The cost of health care continues to climb with no signs of slowing down, making it one of the most significant expenses in retirement. As Americans live longer, preparing for these expenses becomes an essential component of any comprehensive financial plan.
Aerial view of a large cargo ship carrying colorful containers at sea, with the shadow of an airplane visible on the water.
6 min read

Special Update: What U.S.-China Trade Progress Means for Investors

The recent trade announcement between the U.S. and China reverses many of the tariffs that rattled financial markets beginning in April. This agreement, which lasts 90 days, lowers U.S. tariff rates on China from 145% to 30%, and China’s rates on U.S. goods to 10%. Along with tariff pauses on other trading partners, and a newly announced trade deal with the U.K., markets are hopeful that a drawn-out trade war is now off the table. What does this changing market narrative mean for long-term investors?
People sit and read at long wooden tables in a large, ornate library room with tall windows, chandeliers, and shelves filled with books.
6 min read

College Planning: Key Financial Considerations

Benjamin Franklin once said that “an investment in knowledge pays the best interest.” As many high school seniors prepare to make their final college decisions, families face one of the most significant financial commitments of their lives.
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6 min read

The Importance of Offense and Defense in Challenging Markets

Concerns that a trade war will lead to a recession have recently spread around the globe. The possibility of retaliatory tariffs is on investors’ minds, with China responding with counter-tariffs, increasing the odds of a worst-case trade war scenario. Markets in Asia and Europe have declined alongside U.S. stocks, and there has been a “flight to safety” as bond prices rise and interest rates fall.
7 min read

Special Update: Reciprocal Tariffs and the Market Reaction

On April 2, President Trump announced new tariffs on nearly all major trading partners. These tariffs are “reciprocal” in that they correspond to tariffs each country imposes on U.S. goods and are on top of previously announced duties.
A couple sits on a couch, looking at documents on a coffee table, with a calculator in use. They seem focused and engaged in discussion.
6 min read

Finding Perspective Amid Recession Fears

The stock market has stumbled year-to-date, with the S&P 500 and Nasdaq both declining. While tariffs have garnered the most attention, investors are also concerned about mixed economic signals, including weak consumer confidence, hotter inflation, government worker layoffs, and more. Some are now wondering if there will be a recession, and President Trump did not rule out the possibility in recent interviews. How can investors maintain perspective in this challenging market and economic environment?
A warehouse with two workers wearing safety gear amid tall shelves filled with boxes; one operates a forklift, and the other handles a pallet on the floor.
4 min read

Special Update: Trade Wars and Navigating Market Risk

Trade headlines continue to weigh on markets as new tariffs go into effect. President Trump recently confirmed tariffs on Canada, Mexico and China, dashing hopes of more extensions or last-minute deals. Additional tariffs are expected in the coming months, including reciprocal ones against countries that impose duties on U.S. goods
Infographic of "2025" with icons symbolizing action, planning, and goals; includes a target and arrow, gears, handshake, and symbols of growth and strategy.
5 min read

3 Financial (New Year’s) Resolutions for 2025

The start of the year is the perfect time to prioritize both personal and financial well-being. While physical health often takes center stage in New Year’s resolutions, financial fitness deserves equal attention

Griffin Black, LLC is an SEC registered investment adviser; registration does not imply skill or training. Content is for informational purposes only and is not investment, legal, tax, or accounting advice. No client relationship is created by viewing this site. Information is believed reliable but not guaranteed. Investing involves risk, including loss of principal; past performance does not guarantee future results. Any testimonials or ratings may not reflect all experiences and are not indicative of future outcomes. Additional information, including fees and services, is available in our Form ADV Part 2A.

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