The week in Vested

what would cause my monthly interest credit to be 12¢ less instead of going up?

US · Tue May 05

A user noticed their monthly interest credit was 12¢ lower than expected after depositing $750 in April. They seek advice on whether this is an error needing bank attention.

Personal Investments • TIAA advice

US · Tue May 05

Argentarius seeks advice on transferring their wife’s TIAA accounts, including a TDA account, DC plan, and Roth IRA, to a Fidelity Rollover IRA, with concerns about the 'TIAA Traditional' pension, which may need to be liquidated over 10 years starting at age 55.

Why this matters: Understanding the best way to manage retirement funds can significantly impact long-term financial security and tax implications.

Roth conversion to minimize RMD: when is it pointless?

US · Tue May 05

A 60-year-old retiree with a $2 million traditional 401k is considering Roth conversions to minimize Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) but finds it may not save significant tax money due to current low income levels. The decision hinges on future income and RMD amounts.

Why this matters: Understanding optimal Roth conversion strategies can help retirees manage taxes and ensure sustainable retirement income.

Personal Consumer Issues • Re: Wife's Birthday - Chef's Table (in Detroit, MI)?

US · Tue May 05

A retired engineer suggests using AI, specifically Gemini, to find a suitable restaurant for his wife’s birthday in Detroit, MI, by inputting preferences such as location, cuisine, and price range.

Why this matters: This highlights how AI can assist in everyday decision-making, potentially making life easier for older adults.

I am just about to get in college majors in cs , it's not top tier college so is there any chance I can become quant engineer in top HFTs

US · Tue May 05

A student majoring in computer science at a non-top-tier college asks if they can still become a quantitative engineer in high-frequency trading firms despite being average in math and not attending a prestigious institution.

Why this matters: This question highlights the challenges faced by students from less selective colleges pursuing careers in competitive fields like quantitative finance.

Need help knowing what to prioritise

US · Tue May 05

A person living with parents and facing financial struggles seeks advice on prioritizing debt repayment and saving for a future home purchase. They earn £32,000 annually, struggle with £10,000 debt, and have limited disposable income after covering essential expenses.

Personal Investments • S&P 500 + international or total us + international for retirement?

US · Tue May 05

A young investor considering their Roth IRA options is debating between investing in the S&P 500 plus total international markets versus total US plus total international markets, prioritizing growth with a long-term horizon.

I helped my immigrant relatives invest

US · Tue May 05

The author assisted immigrant relatives in setting up 401k and IRA accounts, investing in target-date and low-cost index funds. One relative now has $150k in their IRA, while others have $50k and $30k respectively.

Does saving money and financial success relate to our personality

US · Tue May 05

A Reddit user shares personal experiences contrasting their ability to save money with a colleague who struggled financially despite earning significantly more. The anecdote illustrates how personality and habits might influence financial success beyond income levels.

Why this matters: Understanding the role of personal finance habits can help individuals improve their financial well-being regardless of their income.

Personal Investments • Re: Fixed Income with lower distribtuions

US · Tue May 05

Fresh Air suggests BOXX as a fixed income investment with cash-like returns, taxed as capital gains. The recommendation notes it is imperfect and may face future tax challenges.

Why this matters: Understanding alternative investment options can help individuals optimize their portfolios and manage taxes more effectively.