Market Thoughts Video from Commonwealth Financial Network®

 
The team at Midwest Financial Group would like to offer you the opportunity to hear thoughts from Brad McMillan, managing principal and chief investment officer at Commonwealth Financial Network®, our Registered Investment Adviser–broker/dealer. These videos are updated monthly with great information about your financial world!
 
 

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Welcome to our Videos page, where you'll find a curated selection of our video series designed to keep you informed and confident in your financial journey. From investment insights and Medicare guidance to understanding the market and planning for retirement, these videos feature expert advice from our team at Midwest Financial Group. Each series is tailored to provide you with practical knowledge and actionable tips.

 

 

Financial Tip Friday - Beneficiary Planning: What You Need To Know
Did you know many people forget to add or update beneficiaries on their accounts? In this video, Eric explains why beneficiary planning is crucial and how overlooking it can create headaches for your loved ones. Watch now to make sure your wishes are clear and your accounts are set up the right way! 
 
Financial Tip Friday - Getting The Upper Hand on Debt 
Feeling overwhelmed by debt? In this video, Eric shares clear, practical tips to help you get organized, prioritize what to pay off first, and build a plan toward financial freedom. Watch now to learn how small, consistent steps can put you back in control!
Financial Tip Friday - Control from the Grave? | How a Financial Plan Works
Can you really have control from the grave? It might sound dramatic, but when it comes to your finances, the answer is yes—if you plan ahead. In this video, we break down how financial plans work, and how you can use tools like trusts, wills, and beneficiary designations to make sure your money goes where you want, when you want—even after you're gone.
Financial Tip Friday - What to Do with Your Old 401(k) 
Thinking about what to do with that old 401(k) from your previous job? You’ve got options—and making the right move could have a big impact on your future retirement. In this video, we break down what you should and shouldn’t do with that old account. Take a look!

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Midwest Money Minute - Father’s Day Financial WisdomFather's Day Financial Wisdom
In this heartwarming Father's Day edition of Midwest Money Minute, Matt is joined by his father, Mark, for a special conversation at Botanical Gardens. Emmy Fink hosts the segment where Mark shares the early money lessons he passed on to Matt—from saving for a bike to planning for financial independence. Together, they reflect on the importance of financial planning, long-term goals, and creating a life of purpose and freedom. Tune in for timeless advice, family insight, and a reminder that smart money habits often start at home.

 

Midwest Money Minute - Welcome To Our NEW Home! 
Take a tour of the brand-new office of Midwest Financial Group in Fitchburg with Matt and Emmy Fink. From bare 2x4s to a fully realized space built with clients in mind, this transformation reflects the firm's commitment to putting people first. Hear how the new environment enhances client service, boosts team energy, and celebrates the financial journeys of every family they work with. Come see what makes this space — and this team — truly special.

 

Midwest Money Minute – The Game Of Life
Financial literacy starts young! Teaching kids about money early helps build lifelong smart habits. The team at Midwest Financial Group, Inc. has tips on making finances a family conversation—covering topics like needs vs. wants and saving strategies. 

 

Midwest Money Minute - Exciting Changes at Midwest Financial Group!
Big changes are happening at Midwest Financial Group! In this month’s Midwest Money Minute, Matt and Brandon reveal our exciting move to a new, unified office space. This milestone reflects years of planning, growth, and financial strategy—just like the principles we use to help clients achieve their financial goals. Learn how this move will enhance collaboration, service, and the client experience. Visit mfgteam.com to learn more!

 

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Midwest Financial Group - Here for Every Step of Your Financial Journey
From starting your financial plan to navigating retirement and unexpected life changes, Midwest Financial Group is by your side every step of the way. Whether your goals are big or small, we're committed to growing with you and supporting your financial future.

 

Midwest Financial Group - Bring the Football Team Together!
In this video, Brandon explains our financial planning process using a football analogy. He outlines investments as the "offense," insurance as the "defense," and tax advisors as the "special teams," all coordinated by Midwest Financial as the "coach." Clients are invited to contact the team for a complimentary financial plan.

 

 

Midwest Financial Group - Putting Clients First!
Our Certified Financial Fiduciaries prioritize your interests and provide advice that benefits you, not our bottom line. Whether you're familiar with the market or just starting, we're here to help. Visit MFGteam.com and take your first step towards financial freedom today.

 

Midwest Financial Group - From Confusion to Clarity: Understanding the Market with Us
Financial planning can be stress-free with the right team. At Midwest Financial Group, our Certified Financial Fiduciaries put your interests first. Whether you understand the market or don't know where to start, we're here to provide advice designed to benefit you, not our bottom line. Visit us at MFGteam.com and take your first step towards financial freedom today.

 

 

Investor360 - Customizing The Dashboard
Discover how to get a holistic view of your finances with the Investor360 dashboard. Learn to organize your financial information using widgets and customize your dashboard by selecting and arranging widgets as per your preference. Easily add, rearrange, or remove widgets to keep your priorities in check. Use the hide and show all content links for privacy. For more details, refer to the in-app help section.

 

Investor360 - Using Multi-Factor Authentication
Enhance your account security with Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) in Investor360. Starting September 9th, 2021, MFA will be required for all users. Learn how to set up MFA by choosing text, voice, or the Ping ID app. Follow step-by-step instructions to add this extra layer of protection to your login process. For any issues or questions, contact your advisor.

 

Investor360 - Setting up Insurance Policies
Learn how to view, add, and edit your insurance policies using the Investor360 platform. Discover how to access detailed information, billing, and policy riders. Easily manage your coverage by adding new policies and updating existing ones. Note that only manually entered policies can be edited or deleted. For more details, refer to the in-app help section.

 

Investor360 - Client Online Access
Learn how to view, add, and edit your insurance policies using the Investor360 platform. Discover how to access detailed information, billing, and policy riders. Easily manage your coverage by adding new policies and updating existing ones. Note that only manually entered policies can be edited or deleted. For more details, refer to the in-app help section.

 

 

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Money Cents - Why You Should Talk About Money with Family - Not Just With Your Partner
In this episode of Money Cents, the focus is on the importance of having open and honest financial conversations—not just with partners, but also with parents and children. The episode highlights how discussing money across generations can help clarify wishes, build financial literacy, and instill lifelong habits. Sponsored by Midwest Financial Group, the message encourages proactive planning and seeking guidance from financial professionals to ensure everyone’s best interests are supported. 

 

Money Cents - The Risks of Early Retirement & How To Transition Smoothly
This episode of Money Cents explores the common regret of retiring too early and the financial and emotional challenges that can come with it. While the idea of early retirement is appealing, stepping away during peak earning years may limit long-term savings and lead to unexpected lifestyle adjustments. Instead, the episode suggests a tiered retirement approach—gradually transitioning to part-time or consulting roles before fully retiring. With guidance from Midwest Financial Group, listeners are encouraged to plan a retirement that truly fits their goals and readiness.

 

Money Cents - How to Plan Retirement Savings When You Don't Know Your Lifespan
This episode of Money Cents tackles the challenge of planning for retirement without knowing exactly how long you'll need your savings to last. With life expectancies increasing, it's more important than ever to make sure your retirement funds can support a longer life. While the uncertainty can feel overwhelming, the episode emphasizes that with a mix of heredity, statistical insights, and expert advice, you can create a solid estimate and plan accordingly.

 

Money Cents - Tax-Smart Retirement Savings: Maximize Your 401(k) & IRA Contributions
In this episode of Money Cents, the focus is on how smart tax strategies—often used by high-net-worth individuals—can benefit anyone planning for the future. Listeners learn the value of maximizing contributions to tax-advantaged accounts like IRAs and 401(k)s, including the 2025 limits and catch-up contributions for those over 50. The episode also highlights the advantages of employer-sponsored plans, such as profit-sharing, to further reduce taxable income and boost retirement savings. 

 

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Smart Money - 2021 Quarter 1 Investment Insights 
Reflecting on the past three months, uncertainty defined the investment markets, from the vaccine rollout to the political transition in Washington. Now, with successful vaccine distribution and positive pandemic trends, there's cautious optimism. Despite political gridlock, equity markets showed overall positive movements in the first quarter, while the bond market remains challenging. As we move into spring and summer, avoid emotionally driven investment decisions and stay focused on long-term goals and values. Remember, a well-defined financial plan remains the cornerstone of smart investing.

 

Smart Money - 2022 Investment Insights 
Charles Dickens begins "A Tale of Two Cities" with the famous line, "It was the best of times, it was the worst of times," which seems fitting today. Reflecting on 2020, we experienced a roller coaster of events—from a positive start in January to the deep uncertainty that followed. Despite these challenges, you have a powerful tool: your comprehensive financial plan. This plan, developed in times of clarity, guides you through uncertainty. As we approach the election and navigate ongoing COVID-19 impacts, sticking to your plan and consulting with your advisor remains crucial. Stay safe, stay healthy, and stay in touch.

 

Smart Money - 2020 Quarter 4 Investment Insights 
Reflecting on the past three months, uncertainty defined the investment markets, from the vaccine rollout to the political transition in Washington. Now, with successful vaccine distribution and positive pandemic trends, there's cautious optimism. Despite political gridlock, equity markets showed overall positive movements in the first quarter, while the bond market remains challenging. As we move into spring and summer, avoid emotionally driven investment decisions and stay focused on long-term goals and values. Remember, a well-defined financial plan remains the cornerstone of smart investing.

 

Smart Money - 2020 Quarter 3 Investment Insights - Where Do We Go From Here?
Charles Dickens begins "A Tale of Two Cities" with the famous line, "It was the best of times, it was the worst of times," which seems fitting today. Reflecting on 2020, we experienced a roller coaster of events—from a positive start in January to the deep uncertainty that followed. Despite these challenges, you have a powerful tool: your comprehensive financial plan. This plan, developed in times of clarity, guides you through uncertainty. As we approach the election and navigate ongoing COVID-19 impacts, sticking to your plan and consulting with your advisor remains crucial. Stay safe, stay healthy, and stay in touch.

 

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MFG Observer: Change is Coming! - March 2022 
In this episode, Matt reflects on the challenges of 2020 and welcomes 2021 with a message of hope and confidence. They acknowledge the struggles of the past year, including the pandemic, political turmoil, and personal hardships, while emphasizing the resilience and adaptability shown by everyone. The speaker highlights the importance of sticking to a financial plan during uncertain times and reassures viewers of the progress being made, such as the development and deployment of COVID-19 vaccines. They encourage staying the course and offer support for those seeking financial guidance. The message concludes with gratitude and optimism for the year ahead.

 

MFG Observer: July 2021 
In this episode, Matt reflects on the recent stock market turmoil, emphasizing the importance of staying the course with investment plans. They reassure viewers of the firm's commitment to guiding them through uncertain times and highlight signs of hope as summer approaches. The speaker expresses gratitude for the support from clients and announces new initiatives, including monthly Zoom calls with expert speakers. The goal is to provide timely and relevant information to help clients navigate their financial journey. Viewers are encouraged to stay positive and focus on what matters most.

 

MFG Observer: 2020 Year in Review 
In this episode, Matt reflects on the challenges of 2020 and welcomes 2021 with a message of hope and confidence. They acknowledge the struggles of the past year, including the pandemic, political turmoil, and personal hardships, while emphasizing the resilience and adaptability shown by everyone. The speaker highlights the importance of sticking to a financial plan during uncertain times and reassures viewers of the progress being made, such as the development and deployment of COVID-19 vaccines. They encourage staying the course and offer support for those seeking financial guidance. The message concludes with gratitude and optimism for the year ahead.

 

MFG Observer: 2020 - Where Do We Go From Here? 
In this episode, Matt reflects on the recent stock market turmoil, emphasizing the importance of staying the course with investment plans. They reassure viewers of the firm's commitment to guiding them through uncertain times and highlight signs of hope as summer approaches. The speaker expresses gratitude for the support from clients and announces new initiatives, including monthly Zoom calls with expert speakers. The goal is to provide timely and relevant information to help clients navigate their financial journey. Viewers are encouraged to stay positive and focus on what matters most.

 

 

Medicare Explained 2021: Original Medicare (Part A & B) + Medicare Supplement VS Medicare Advantage
You are nearing age 65 or are already age 65. What is Medicare? What is covered by Original Medicare? What are your options for your Medicare coverage needs? What is a Medicare Supplement? What is Medicare Part C also known as Medicare Advantage? Are there specific dates to be aware of as far as enrollment or times when you can elect to change? Watch now to learn from Midwest Financial Group's Insurance Specialist Steve Stewart.

 

 

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