Chart of the Day: US vs. the Rest of the G7

Today’s Chart of the Day comes from Visual Capitalist showing the annual production per person of America’s richest states vs. the rest of the G7 Countries, a group of the seven most industrialized counties in the world.

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Five Important Duties of a Trust Officer

A Trust Officer plays a critical role in managing trusts and ensuring that the wishes of the trust creator (the grantor) are carried out according to legal and financial guidelines. While many people designate a family member to handle these duties, sometimes that isn’t the best option.

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Chart of the Day: Stock Moats

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Chart of the Day: Eight Months

Today’s Chart of the Day from Nuveen shows that in all the recessions going back to 1953, on average, stocks hit their bottom six months into a recession and broke even again in eight months. It’s been so long, we often forget the pain we feel in a severely depressed market, but they are relatively short lived.

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5 Financial Planning and Budgeting Tips for the New Year

As we enter the new year, it’s time to focus on financial planning and budgeting—cornerstones of financial success. A new year provides the perfect opportunity to evaluate past habits, identify areas for improvement, and set clear, actionable goals. Whether you’re looking to save more, pay off debt, or invest in your future, having a plan is key.

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Chart of the Day: Stocks in the Rear View Mirror

Today’s Chart of the Day from a Morningstar article about “Buffer” ETFs (aka exchange-traded funds), shows the distribution of returns for rolling 12-month periods for the stock market.  

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Is an SBA 504 Loan Right for Your Small Business?

Are you looking for a loan for your business but aren’t sure if a conventional loan or an SBA loan would be more appropriate for your needs? Navigating the various types of loans and narrowing it down to the right one is challenging. The commercial lenders at Crews Bank & Trust are experts and are always ready to work with you to help determine the best loan for your business.

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Chart of the Day: US Almost 50% of the World

Today’s Chart of the Day from Torsten Slok with Apollo shows that the United States now makes up almost 50% of the world’s total stock market value.

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Why Do I Need a Budget?

At its core, a budget is a plan that tracks your income and expenses. It's a tool to ensure you can cover your monthly expenses and save for future goals. If you have a regular income and want to manage your finances better, creating a budget is a smart choice.

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Chart of the Day: Good News for Last 200 Years

Today's Chart of the Day, from Our World in Data, shows how the world has improved per 100 people since 1820.

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Chart of the Day: Mind the 15% Gap

Today’s Chart of the Day is from a Morningstar article named, “Why Investors Missed Out on 15% of Total Funds Returns.” They call it the “gap,” which is comprised of losses experienced by typical investors from excess trading, buying high-flying funds and conversely, selling low-flying ones.

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How to Strengthen Your Commercial Real Estate Loan Application

Commercial real estate (CRE) loans are critical for business owners and investors looking to acquire, develop, or renovate properties. Whether you're expanding your portfolio or investing in your first property, understanding what lenders consider before underwriting a loan can make a significant difference in your loan application’s success. Preparation can be the key to a smoother process, better terms, and increased approval chances. Let’s break down the primary factors that CRE lenders evaluate and how you can position yourself for success.

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Chart of the Day: 1988 Home Prices to Now

Today’s Chart of the Day is data from Case-Shiller Adjusted Home Price, charted by Mish.

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Chart of the Day: Value of $100

Today’s Chart of the Day from GoBankingRates shows the cost-of-living differences between the states. Oddly in Florida, $100 is worth $100.

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Must-Ask Questions Before Selecting Your Commercial Real Estate Loan Partner

The choice of commercial real estate (CRE) lender can significantly influence the outcome of your investment. Partnering with the right CRE loan provider ensures that you have the support, financial structure, and flexibility needed to navigate the complexities of the commercial property market. Choosing a CRE lender isn’t just about securing funds; it’s about establishing a relationship that will support your real estate endeavors now and in the future. This guide outlines key questions you should ask when selecting your CRE loan partner to help you make an informed decision.

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