
The Diversification Test: Is Your Portfolio Really Ready for the Next Big Pullback?
One of the basic principles of investing boils down to what the investor can and cannot control. They can do everything “right” and still lose money in the market. There...

Self-Directed IRA Investing – What NOT To do
A self-directed IRA can open a world of investment possibilities, to go with the tax-related benefits of investing through an IRA. You can invest in private companies, gold, commercial property,...

Fair Market Value: Appraising Alternative Assets in a Self-Directed IRA
Note: FMV reporting to STRATA has been extended to July 31, 2020. Fair market value: What is it? IRA custodians, like STRATA Trust Company, are required by federal law to...

IRS Form 5498: What It Is and What The IRS Extension Means For Your IRA
IRA custodians must track all IRA contributions made throughout the year and generate IRS Form 5498, IRA Contribution Information, for each IRA to report contribution activity and the fair market...

What is Due Diligence When It Comes to Private Placement Investing?
Guest contributor: Bruce Roberts, Chief Executive Officer of Carofin* Before making an alternative investment, Investors should analyze and verify information provided to them by the Issuer. Typically, an Investor will be presented...

Coronavirus-Related Retirement Account Distributions: Do You Qualify?
Revised June 23, 2020, to reflect new guidance released by the IRS. The newly enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act is designed to assist Americans affected by...