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!
 
 

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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 - Financial Planning Considerations for Single Women
Single women face unique challenges when it comes to financial planning. However, with unique challenges also come unique opportunities. Knowledge is power, so today, Eric looks at 12 tips single women can use in their financial planning. Take a look!

 

Financial Tip Friday - 5 Money Tips - Managing Your Credit Score
A strong credit score isn't just about making borrowing possible—it’s your ticket to better interest rates and greater financial opportunities. In this video, Eric dives into the key factors that shape your credit score and shares actionable tips to boost it. If you’re planning to borrow money within the next five years, this is a must-watch!
Financial Tip Friday - Know the Warning Signs of Edler Fraud 
Elder fraud is a disturbing trend that has been growing over recent years. In this video, Eric discusses some of the warning signs and things to pay attention to in order to protect yourself or your loved ones from falling victim to elder fraud. Take a look!

 

Financial Tip Friday - A Crash Course in 529 Plans & Their Impact on Financial Aid 
529 Plans can be a great way to save for college, either for yourself or your children, in a tax-efficient way. However, it is important to understand the implications of saving in this way and how it might impact financial aid. Take a look at the video to learn more.

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Midwest Money Minute - The Game of Life
Financial literacy starts young! Teaching kids about money early helps build lifelong smart habits. The team at Midwest Financial Group, Inc. has tips on making finances a family conversation—covering topics like needs vs. wants and saving strategies.

 

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!

 

Midwest Money Minute – Financial Lessons from a Christmas Tree Farm
The holiday spirit is alive at East Wind Christmas Tree Farm! In this month’s Midwest Money Minute, Matt connects the lessons of running a tree farm to smart financial planning—focusing on long-term investing, diversification, and strategic growth. Just like a Christmas tree takes years to mature, building wealth requires patience and careful planning. Join us as we explore how these principles can help secure your financial future. 

 

Midwest Money Minute - Finding Your Way Through the Financial Corn Maze 
Getting lost in a corn maze is fun—but getting lost in your finances? Not so much! In this month’s Midwest Money Minute, Matt breaks down how navigating a corn maze is just like financial planning. Without a map, it’s easy to hit dead ends, but with the right guidance, you can stay on track to reach your goals. Watch as we explore how a solid financial plan helps you avoid obstacles and find the best path forward. 

 

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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 - Estate Planning
Estate planning ensures your assets are distributed according to your wishes, preventing legal complications for your family. Learn why creating a will and establishing a trust are crucial steps. Discover how regular reviews and updates with Midwest Financial Group can keep your estate plan current and effective, providing peace of mind for you and your loved ones.

 

Money Cents - Investing in Mutual Funds
Learn why mutual funds are a smart choice for diversifying your investment portfolio. Understand how pooling money to invest in a variety of stocks, bonds, and securities can minimize risk and simplify portfolio management. Find out if mutual funds are right for you with insights from Midwest Financial Group, your local financial planning and wealth management specialists.

 

Money Cents - Setting Healthy Boundaries
Tune in to learn effective ways to set healthy financial boundaries to reduce stress and improve financial well-being. Learn the importance of creating a budget, setting personal financial goals, and maintaining open communication with those around you. Discover how Midwest Financial Group can assist you in achieving financial confidence and stability with professional guidance.

 

Money Cents - What to do with extra cash?
Wondering what to do with extra money? Learn how to make the most of your surplus cash by starting or adding to your emergency fund, paying off high-interest credit card debt, and exploring investment options. Discover the benefits of consulting with a financial expert to make informed decisions. Midwest Financial Group is here to help you manage and grow your finances wisely.

 

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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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