Durukhshan Esmati - First Command Financial Advisor

💡 Financial Tip: Consider Roth Conversions During Lower-Tax Years

One planning opportunity that is often overlooked is taking advantage of years when your taxable income is temporarily lower than usual. Examples may include the years between retirement and the start of Social Security benefits, a career transition, a sabbatical, or other periods of reduced income. During these years, converting a portion of traditional retirement assets to a Roth IRA may allow you to pay taxes at a lower rate compared to other years, depending on your individual tax situation. While taxes are due on the amount converted, future qualified growth and withdrawals from a Roth IRA can be tax-free under current law.

✅ Potential to create future tax-free retirement income (subject to IRS rules)
✅ May increase flexibility in retirement tax planning
✅ Could reduce future required distributions, depending on legislation and account structure
⚠️ May increase current-year taxable income and should be evaluated carefully.

Every situation is unique, and Roth conversions are not appropriate for everyone. The timing, amount converted, and potential tax impact should be carefully evaluated as part of a broader financial strategy. A thoughtful tax plan can be just as important as an investment plan.

If you’d like to discuss whether this concept may apply to your situation, please feel free to contact me:
Durukhshan Esmati
📧 [email protected]
📞 571-488-6288

Disclaimer: First Command and its affiliates do not provide legal or tax advice. This material is for informational purposes only and should not be relied on for legal or tax advice. You should consult your own legal or tax advisors before engaging in any transaction.

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Event Details:
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Why have interest rates been so stubbornly high, and what is that telling us about the health of the economy? Our Investment Management Team breaks it down: https://bit.ly/3Scu7Ie

Markets continue to navigate a complex landscape shaped by evolving economic data, policy uncertainty, and shifting investor expectations. In this edition of Market Musings, we explore the key themes influencing markets today, from inflation and interest rates to economic growth, valuations, and the opportunities that may emerge amid volatility.

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💡Financial Tip: Don’t Let Emotions Drive Your Investment Decisions

One common mistake investors make is allowing emotions to influence decisions in the stock market. Some may feel pressure to sell during market declines or buy into trends when a stock becomes popular or “hot.” While these reactions are understandable, they may negatively impact long-term financial outcomes. Equity investing can be more effective when based on the fundamentals of the underlying companies, rather than short-term market sentiment or fear-driven decisions.

✅ Markets naturally experience short-term volatility
✅ Long-term discipline is important rather than short-term timing
✅ Rebalancing portfolios can help investors stay aligned with their goals and risk profile

Let’s put it simply:
The stock market is generally a long-term strategy. Entering the market with short-term expectations or relying on equities to cover monthly expenses may expose investors to increased risk and emotional pressure.

Investors may underestimate both the emotional side of investing, and the importance of understanding their true risk capacity -- their actual financial ability to withstand market downturns without compromising financial stability.

📌 Action step:
Review your investment strategy. Consider whether your portfolio reflects both your long-term goals and your realistic ability to manage market volatility.

A disciplined and diversified approach can help support long-term investment objectives.

For guidance on disciplined investing, speak with,
Durukhshan Esmati,
Financial Advisor at First Command Financial Services
Email: [email protected]

Disclaimer: Diversification, asset allocation and portfolio rebalancing do not guarantee a profit or protect against a loss in a declining market. They are methods used to help manage risk. Investment returns and principal value will fluctuate and your investment, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than its original cost. Sales charges and taxes may apply.

💡 Financial Tip: Don’t Leave “Free Money” on the Table

One of the most common opportunities I see missed, especially among working professionals, is underfunding retirement accounts that offer an employer match.
If your employer offers a match (for example, 100% of the first 4% you contribute), and you’re not contributing enough to capture that full match, you’re essentially leaving part of your compensation behind.

✅ It’s part of your total compensation package
✅ Over time, it can significantly boost your retirement savings

Let’s put it simply:
If you don't contribute enough to get the full match, you're turning down “free money.”
I often work with individuals who are saving, but not maximizing this benefit. Even a small increase in your contribution rate today can have a meaningful impact over the long term thanks to compounding.

📌 Action step:
Check your retirement plan today. Make sure you’re contributing at least enough to receive your full employer match.

Your future self will thank you.