As the holiday season approaches, we’re reminded how grateful we are for the wonderful families we serve across Northern Michigan and beyond. Thank you for the trust you place in us to help guide your financial journey with confidence and care.
Many families are also beginning to think about ways to make their giving more meaningful this time of year. While toys and gadgets fade with time, a thoughtful financial gift can grow in value — and teach lessons that last a lifetime.
In this month’s feature, we explore four financial gift ideas for children and grandchildren that can help them build confidence, responsibility, and a lifelong connection to financial well-being.
At Black Walnut Wealth Management, we believe legacy means more than wealth — it’s about values, stewardship, and the confidence to make wise financial choices.
Explore the full article below to see how you can give a gift that keeps giving long after the wrapping paper is gone.
~ The Team at Black Walnut Wealth Management
Investing in Their Future: 4 Smart Financial Gifts for Kids and Grandkids
Whether it’s helping a teenager open their first Roth IRA or giving younger kids a share of a company they love, financial gifts can be both practical and inspiring. They’re a way to say, “I believe in your future,” while planting seeds of financial literacy that can last for generations.
In our latest article, you’ll find options for every stage — from starting a 529 college savings plan to setting up a custodial investment account that teaches the power of compounding. Each idea blends generosity with education, shaping not only what they receive today but how they think about money in the years ahead.
Read more to explore these timeless financial gift ideas and see how small steps today can help build a lasting legacy for the next generation(s).
WHAT WE'RE WATCHING
Keeping Perspective Amid Market Changes
As 2025 winds down, we’re keeping a close eye on how the economy and markets respond to shifting interest rate expectations, inflation trends, and consumer spending as we head into the holidays. The Federal Reserve’s next moves and corporate earnings may influence short-term market sentiment.
While the headlines often focus on what’s changing day to day, our attention remains on how these broader trends may affect long-term plans — from investment allocations to savings and cash management opportunities.
PLANNING TIP OF THE MONTH
Easing Into the Holidays with Financial Peace of Mind
This is a good time to pause, reflect, and appreciate the planning you have completed this year. Because much of the work is already in place, you can enter the holidays with less stress and more time for what matters most.
Whether you’re spending the holidays in Northern Michigan or traveling elsewhere, know that your financial plan continues to work quietly in the background. Our role is to keep the details on track so you can focus on the moments that matter most.
TAX-SMART STRATEGY
Medicare Open Enrollment and Income Planning
As Medicare open enrollment continues through December 7, it’s an important time for retirees to review their coverage and understand how income decisions can affect premiums in the year ahead. Higher income levels can trigger IRMAA surcharges — additional costs added to Medicare Part B and Part D premiums.
Even if you’ve already reviewed your plan for 2026, this is also a good reminder to keep an eye on your adjusted gross income as the year closes. Roth conversions, realized capital gains, and even large withdrawals can all influence future premiums.
At Black Walnut Wealth Management, we monitor these details throughout the year so our clients can avoid unpleasant surprises — and enjoy their retirement years with greater peace of mind.
BLACK WALNUT TEAM UPDATES
Thanksgiving Office Hours
Please note that our office will be closed Thursday, November 27 and Friday, November 28 in observance of Thanksgiving.
UPCOMING COMMUNITY EVENTS
- November 22
- November 27
- Thanksgiving
- November 29
- Small Business Saturday
- December 2
- Giving Tuesday
- December 7
- Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day
- December 11-14
- "The Nutcracker" – Interlochen Center for the Arts
- December 15
- Hanukkah begins
REVIEWS & RECOMMENDATIONS
Help Others Find a Financial Partner They Can Trust
We’re grateful for the feedback we receive from clients. Here’s one that made our day:
"The communication – listening & responding is great. I appreciate the attentiveness to tax implications in my portfolio." ~ Kate W.
This testimonial was provided by a current client of our firm. We did not provide any compensation in exchange for this testimonial. Because the individual is a current client, their experience and opinions may be influenced by their ongoing relationship with our firm. Clients’ experiences may not be representative of all clients, and results are not guaranteed.
