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!
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 - Are My Investments Subject to Capital Gains?
No one wants to be surprised by a tax bill. That’s why this week’s Financial Tip Friday is all about understanding how capital gains tax works. If you’ve ever wondered whether selling your investments could trigger taxes, you’re not alone. In this short video, we’ll walk you through the basics so you can feel confident about how—and when—capital gains may apply to you.
Financial Tip Friday - What Happens if You Save Just 1% More?
What difference could saving just 1% more really make? Turns out—quite a bit. This short video shows how a small change in your savings rate can lead to a big impact over time. If you’re serious about building a stronger financial future, this is worth 2 minutes of your day!
Financial Tip Friday - How Long Does it Take to Double Your Money?
Ever wonder how long it takes to double your money? This quick video breaks down the “Rule of 72”—a simple formula that can give you a ballpark estimate in seconds. Whether you're saving for retirement or just curious about how compounding works, this rule might change how you think about investing. Watch now and see how time and interest rate work together to grow your money.
Financial Tip Friday - Caring for Your Aging Parents - 8 Considerations
Caring for aging parents can feel overwhelming—but it doesn’t have to be. In this video, we walk you through 8 practical things to consider as you step into this important role. From financial conversations to healthcare decisions, we’ll help you think through the stuff no one really prepares you for. If you’re feeling the weight of responsibility and unsure where to start, we hope this video will help bring a little more clarity to your situation.
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Midwest Money Minute - Golf & Finances: Lessons from the Course with MFG Golf & Finances - Lesses From the Course with MFG
What do golf and financial planning have in common? A lot more than you think! Emmy Think sits down with Matt Cuplin at The Oaks Golf Course to explore how practice, patience, and persistence on the fairway also apply to managing your money. From the importance of small, consistent actions to the value of diversifying your “financial clubs,” this conversation is packed with insights to help you stay the course toward your long-term goals. Whether you’re aiming for a hole-in-one or a secure retirement, the right strategy makes all the difference. Meet the pros at Midwest Financial Group and discover how they can help you build a winning financial game plan.
Midwest Money Minute - Father’s Day Financial Wisdom Father'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 - 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 – Helping You Take the First Step Toward Financial Freedom
Financial planning doesn’t have to be overwhelming—especially with the right team by your side. At Midwest Financial Group, our certified financial fiduciaries are committed to putting your best interests first, whether you're a seasoned investor or just starting out. Let us help you build a path to financial freedom.
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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