Berkshire Money Management

10/14/2026

You’ve spent years saving for retirement. How do you know when it’s okay to spend a little more?

Allen Harris tackles that question in his latest Capital Ideas article, exploring how retirees can make the most of their investments without putting their long-term plans at risk.

The economy looks very different depending on whether you own substantial investments.

10/09/2026

🌾🎃 Meet May B. Retired! 🎃🌾

May has officially entered her retirement era, and honestly… she’s looking pretty good at it. 😎

She’s got her comfy chair, her trusty pup, her skis ready for adventure, and absolutely nowhere she needs to be.

We had way too much fun putting together our scarecrow for the Berkshire Botanical Garden’s Harvest Fest, coming up this Saturday and Sunday. If you’re visiting, keep an eye out for May B. Retired enjoying the good life among the gardens! 🍂

Because retirement isn’t about doing nothing. It’s about having the time to do whatever you want. 💚

10/08/2026

📅 The Estate Settlement Timeline: What to Expect

As a newly appointed executor or personal representative, managing timelines and expectations is crucial. Here’s a road map to help you communicate effectively with family members:

1. Understanding Duration: Estate settlement can take 9-18 months; the process is often longer with complexities.
2. Probate Appointment: First, wait to be officially appointed by the court.
3. Notification of Heirs: Inform beneficiaries of their potential in the estate, as required.
4. Handle Final Expenses: Budget appropriately for outstanding bills and expenses promptly.
5. Maintain Asset Integrity: Keep property in safe, preserved condition until any decisions are made.
6. Manage Records Efficiently: Authentic, organized record-keeping is essential as questions arise.

Communication and clarity will alleviate stress for you and your loved ones. Effective updates can maintain harmony during this challenging time.

Read more: https://hubs.ly/Q04zFFwD0

The death of a parent or loved one can be an incredibly difficult time. You’re grieving the loss, making funeral arrangements, and, if the will nominates you as the executor of the estate (or, as Massachusetts now calls it, “personal representative”), you may find yourself looking at a long li...

10/07/2026

📈 Interest rates are high. So… should you ditch your stocks and load up on bonds?

Not so fast. Higher yields can make bonds more tempting, but making a big investment move based on one factor can come with its own risks.

So, what should investors consider when rates are high? We’re taking a closer look. 👇

Bonds can diversify stock risk, but they are not an all-weather insurance policy.

10/05/2026

A little Monday news we’re happy to share: Stephen Di Benedetto has been promoted to Team Lead Office Coordinator at Berkshire Money Management! 🎉

Stephen joined BMM in February as a Client Experience Coordinator, and he’s quickly become an important part of the team. In his new role, he’ll help coordinate our Front Office operations across all three BMM locations while continuing to focus on creating a great experience for our clients.

We’re excited to see Stephen step into this next chapter — and even more excited to have him helping lead the way. 👏

Read the full announcement in The Berkshire Edge’s Business Briefs: Read the full article (https://hubs.ly/Q04zbVbr0)

10/02/2026

🚨 Dalton friends, we’re looking for someone new to join the BMM crew!

Berkshire Money Management is hiring a Front Office Coordinator for our Dalton office. If you’re the kind of person who can keep a million little details moving, make people feel welcome, and somehow know when the coffee is running low… we should talk. ☕😉

This full-time role is a great fit for someone who’s organized, personable, detail-oriented, and genuinely enjoys helping people. You’ll play an important part in creating a great client experience and keeping the office humming along.

📍 Dalton, MA
💼 Full-time
🐾 Office dogs included. One opinionated cat comes with the territory.

Think you might be a good fit — or know someone who would be? Send them our way!

👉 View the full job description & apply: https://hubs.ly/Q04z21tp0

10/01/2026

🔑 What to Do in the First Days After a Death

Being named a personal representative or executor is a significant responsibility. Here's a concise action plan to guide you through the initial days:

1. Take a Breath: There's no need to rush. Priority decisions can wait until you’re officially appointed.
2. Understand Your Role: Know if you’re executor or trustee, as duties differ.
3. Obtain Certified Death Certificates: Secure at least 10 originals to manage legal and financial matters smoothly.
4. Secure Estate Property: Protect physical property without making decisions until formally appointed.
5. Locate Key Documents: Spend time finding relevant documents and records to facilitate the process.
6. Don’t Hesitate to Seek Help: Contact an attorney to help interpret documents and navigate your next steps.

Navigating this logistical maze can feel daunting—remember, you’re not alone!

Read more:

The death of a parent or loved one can be an incredibly difficult time. You’re grieving the loss, making funeral arrangements, and, if the will nominates you as the executor of the estate (or, as Massachusetts now calls it, “personal representative”), you may find yourself looking at a long li...

09/30/2026

The Fed raised interest rates. So what does that mean for your bonds?

In his latest Capital Ideas, Allen Harris looks at what history can tell us about bonds after rate hikes, how different types of bonds respond, and what investors may want to consider in today’s higher-yield environment.

Just because the Fed raised rates doesn't mean you should rush to sell all your bonds.

09/23/2026

💸 Want to give your kids a financial head start? There may be a smarter way to do it.

Gifting money and investments can come with some important tax considerations. Allen breaks down a few strategies families may want to consider—including gifting and Roth conversions.

Because “Here, take some money!” is nice.
“Here, take some money—and let’s do this tax-efficiently” is even better. 😉

It is easier to be generous when you know you can afford it, instead of hoping your kids will help you out later.

09/16/2026

Could 2027 have a little déjà vu?

In this week's Capital Ideas, Allen takes a look back at the late-1990s internet boom and asks whether today’s AI-fueled market is following a similar path. From data centers and massive infrastructure spending to productivity gains and the ever-present question of whether enthusiasm can outrun fundamentals, there are plenty of parallels—and some important differences.

So… is 2027 shaping up to rhyme with 1999? 📈🤖

Read on!

Every big infrastructure wave eventually shifts from hype to careful evaluation. The first question is: “Does this technology matter?” The second is: “Who can make money from it?”