5.6 Assignment Case Study and Reflection

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School

Indiana Wesleyan University, Marion *

*We aren’t endorsed by this school

Course

301

Subject

Finance

Date

Jan 9, 2024

Type

docx

Pages

3

Uploaded by LieutenantCloverMink31

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Maximizing Financial Surplus: Prioritizing Savings and Investments Introduction In this article, we will discuss the best strategies for handling a financial surplus in your budget. Drawing inspiration from Madison's current financial situation, we will explore the importance of prioritizing savings in different areas and offer specific advice on savings goals, retirement planning, and investment habits. Summary of Madison's Financial Situation Madison's current financial situation showcases a positive net cash flow, indicating that she has extra funds available after meeting her monthly expenses. Her savings account balance is not mentioned, but she has the opportunity to allocate her surplus wisely. Madison has various expenses, including rent, utilities, groceries, and loan payments, while also enjoying occasional dining out and entertainment. Prioritizing Savings: Emergency Fund and Short-term Goals The first step for Madison should be establishing an emergency fund to cover unforeseen expenses. A recommended goal is to save three to six months' worth of living expenses (Blue & Smith 2018). Given her surplus, Madison can allocate a portion each month towards this fund until she reaches the desired amount. This safety net ensures financial stability in the face of unexpected events. Additionally, Madison may have specific short-term goals, such as a home improvement project or saving for a car. By defining these goals and assigning a timeframe, she can determine the
monthly contribution needed to achieve them. Prioritizing these savings ensures progress towards desired milestones. Retirement Planning: Balancing Current Needs and Future Security While Madison should focus on short-term goals and emergency savings, she should also consider retirement planning. It is important to strike a balance between current needs and future financial security. To start, Madison should contribute a portion of her surplus towards retirement savings. While the exact amount depends on her income, it is generally recommended to save at least 10-15% of pre-tax income for retirement. She can utilize retirement accounts such as a 401(k), Individual Retirement Account (IRA), or a Roth IRA (Blue & Smith, 2018). These accounts offer tax advantages and long-term growth potential. Paying off Student Loans: Pros and Cons Madison should assess her student loan situation and weigh the pros and cons of paying it off more aggressively. Pros of aggressive repayment include reducing overall interest paid and achieving debt freedom sooner. However, it's important to consider the impact on her monthly budget and overall savings goals. If Madison has a manageable interest rate on her student loans and her surplus allows her to comfortably meet other financial obligations while saving for emergencies and retirement, she may consider making regular monthly payments. By balancing loan repayment with other savings goals, Madison can maintain financial stability while still reducing her debt over time. Calculating Retirement Savings
To estimate the potential retirement savings, we used the Schwab Retirement Calculator. By inputting her current savings, monthly contributions, expected rate of return, and retirement age of 65, a rough estimate of her retirement fund was to contribute $9,100 annually to her fund with a projected spending amount of $45,000 per year in retirement. This can help her set realistic goals and determine if she needs to adjust her savings rate to meet her retirement objectives. Personal Savings and Investment Habits My personal savings and investment habits are extremely goal oriented. My number one goal is to continue to live debt-free, and most of my earned money is put towards tuition and bills such as rent. I also have long-term investments in my IRA, with my employer matching up to 3% of what I invest, which I know will be a positive outcome for my future. I would recommend to regularly review and adjust your savings and investment habits to align with your long-term objectives. Diversifying investments and reassessing risk tolerance periodically are great ways to do so. Conclusion Maximizing a financial surplus involves strategic allocation of funds across various savings goals, retirement planning, and debt management. Madison can prioritize building an emergency fund, pursuing short-term goals, contributing to retirement savings, and carefully evaluating the pros and cons of paying off her student loans more aggressively. By balancing these priorities, Madison can achieve financial stability and set a strong foundation for her future. Blue, R., & Smith, B. (2018). “MASTERING PERSONAL FINANCES, A BIBLICAL APPROACH” (1st ed.). BVT Publishing.
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