The Objective Advisor

In financial terms, burn rate describes how quickly money goes out compared with how fast it comes in. Everyone has one — it’s simply the rhythm of how we use our income to support our lives. When you understand your own burn rate, you gain insight into what keeps your household running smoothly and where there’s room to build flexibility.

Most of the time, that rate feels invisible. Paychecks arrive, bills get paid, and life moves forward on autopilot. But when that rhythm breaks — whether from a layoff, a career change, family challenges or even a short-term disruption like a government shutdown — your personal burn rate suddenly comes into focus.

A pause in income doesn’t have to create panic. It can be an opportunity to reset. Reviewing spending patterns, prioritizing needs over wants, and building a small reserve can help strengthen your financial foundation. And I’m here to help you through. Awareness and education, not alarm, is what fuels confidence.

You’ll find articles below to help you think about managing your money this week. And if you’d like to explore new ways to add strength and flexibility to your strategy, let’s talk.

Thank you,
Paul Celentano

Stocks have done so well this year that it’s fair to say market participants haven’t feared much. But just because risks haven’t affected markets lately doesn’t mean they won’t in the future. In that “spirit,” as Halloween approaches, we discuss what scares us about the economy and financial markets.

#1: Stalwart Upper-Income Consumers Are Starting to Feel Some Pressure

For U.S. consumers, it’s the best of times and the worst of times. It’s no surprise that upper-income households supported consumer spending in recent periods. And it’s also no surprise that firms like credit card lender Capital One (COF) want to focus on the wealthier consumer, knowing those consumers weather downturns better.

When people talk about a “resilient consumer,” what they are really talking about is upper-income households. To borrow from Charles Dickens, the current macro landscape is the best of times and simultaneously the worst of times.

So, it behooves investors to carefully track the health of wealthier consumers, and they just got a troubling update from the New York Federal Reserve (Fed). What scares us this Halloween season is the potential stress on the wealthier cohort as more upper-income households reported they will most likely be unable to make their minimum debt payment — now at the highest percentage since mid-2014 when the economy was feeling the aftereffects of the Global Financial Crisis.

After last week's whirlwind of national events, and as we strive as Americans to navigate the days ahead, this week let’s turn our focus to what is within our control—with some helpful financial literacy tips in the articles below, curated from recent headlines.

Here's an empowering reality: though large-scale political and economic events of the day may feel unpredictable and unmanageable, it’s the personal decisions YOU make every day that truly shape your life and future—far more directly than any election outcome. And just as a voter exercises their power at the ballot box, you can exercise profound control over your financial destiny through your intentional choices each day.

So, this week, arm yourself with this knowledge and then show up to vote for yourself, for the future you create. These articles can help get you started. Together we can continue to find areas where you could make more of an immediate and/or lasting impact for your family and the world. Enjoy and share!

Thank you,
Paul Celentano

As we approach Thanksgiving, the thought of discussing money matters with our loved ones can stir up all kinds of emotions. Those conversations can feel as tricky as trying to carve the perfect turkey—so delicate!

But here's a little food for thought: being real and open about financial topics with your family and friends could actually strengthen your bonds in ways you might not expect. Sure, it might be tempting to dodge the money chat and stick to lighter topics like the weather or holiday recipes. However, embracing these conversations can lead to a deeper understanding and connection with those you care about. It's a chance to share values, learn from each other's experiences, and support one another across the generational divide.

If you need more specific guidance on how to kickstart these conversations or navigate other tricky topics this holiday season, don't hesitate to reach out. Together, we can make this Thanksgiving one filled with unforgettable memories and stronger connections that last many lifetimes.

Enjoy the articles below, curated for you from the financial world this week. And please have a safe and happy Thanksgiving!

Thank you,
Paul Celentano

The beginning of a new year always brings a fresh sense of optimism and opportunity. Markets are abuzz with predictions, tech innovations are unfolding, and potential changes in economic policy are on the horizon. While it's easy to get caught up in the excitement and noise, it's important to remain anchored to the financial and investment strategies we've carefully crafted together.

This year, be particularly mindful of the dangers of FOMO—the fear of missing out—which can lead to impulsive decisions, resulting in departures from the thoughtful long-term strategies we've established. Remember, financial success is a marathon, not a sprint. History clearly shows that reacting to every market fluctuation is an unlikely recipe for ultimate success.

Our aim is to build a resilient financial roadmap that withstands the test of time, which means maintaining a disciplined, long-term perspective, even when short-term trends tempt you to think otherwise. Rest assured, I'm here to guide you, with sound advice grounded in careful analysis and a deep understanding of your unique circumstances.

As well, I hope you’ll take the time to read the below articles, which are packed full of insightful perspectives and ideas. Please share them with family and friends who you think could also benefit from their valuable contents.

My best wishes for a wonderful year ahead!

Since the decisions you make today shape the financial well-being of tomorrow, I invite you to explore a concept that extends beyond numbers and spreadsheets: the courage to be disliked.

One key aspect of this concept is the separation of tasks. Clearly delineating what is within your control alleviates the pressure of external expectations, freeing you to prioritize decisions that align with your unique goals, rather than succumbing to societal norms or peer pressure.

Your relationships also play a crucial role in how you manage finances. Embracing the courage to be disliked encourages building those based on mutual respect and trust, rather than seeking approval. This shift allows you to engage in open discussions about financial strategies without the paralyzing fear of judgment.

Moreover, a key tenet of this philosophy is focusing on teleology—our aspirations and goals—rather than etiology—our past. While understanding where you’ve come from is important, success depends on where you’re headed. Concentrating on the future will empower you to make purposeful decisions that propel you forward, rather than being anchored by past financial mistakes or limitations.

Let's work together to cultivate the courage to make bold financial decisions—with the confidence that comes from being true to yourself and your own idiosyncratic life journey.

As Presidents Day approaches, this week we’re reminded not only of the influence of great leaders who came before us, but also of the potential to inspire a legacy within our own families.

This is the perfect moment to sow seeds of financial wisdom and foresight in our children. By guiding them toward strong financial habits and modeling a life well-lived, we can empower future generations to transform life's challenges into opportunities for growth.

Understanding what’s happening in the world can help you make more informed daily financial decisions. However, being well-informed is half the battle. I’m here as well as a resource for you if you have questions or concerns. And please, read and share these articles with anyone you believe could benefit.

As we honor the leaders of the past, let's also take this opportunity to lead our own families toward a future filled with prosperity, wisdom, and lasting success.

Thank you,
Paul Celentano

A significant new bill was just signed into law, locking in the 2017 tax cuts and introducing new deductions across its 900+ pages. While a few new tax breaks could fatten your refund next spring, there are also some belt-tightening measures for federal healthcare, food-aid, and student loan programs that could impact millions—so don’t tune out.

What does this mean for you? In the short term, your paycheck probably won’t shrink, and you might notice a little extra thanks to extended tax rates. But with cuts to some benefits programs, it’s more important than ever to contribute to a safety net, so keep growing your emergency fund and investing for your future. With steady money habits, you’re less vulnerable to policy swings—Congress might cast the votes, but you steer your own financial direction.

I’ve included helpful explainers and news updates below. If you have any questions, let’s talk. The world keeps changing, but remember, you’re not navigating it alone and your financial future remains firmly in your hands.

Thank you,
Paul Celentano

As headlines shift away from the recent flooding in Texas and elsewhere, the real work for many families is just beginning. Recovery after a tragedy often happens in phases: there’s the immediate response, and then there’s the longer, quieter rebuild. While initial support often quickly fades, the true progress comes from patience and steady effort over time.

Rebuilding—whether it’s after a natural disaster, a financial setback, or a major life event—always starts with a first step, however small. It’s learning to honor the memories of the past while embracing new beginnings and celebrating the progress you make along the way. The process can feel slow, but remember, this is where meaningful change and growth take root.

If you’re facing a period of rebuilding—be it tackling debt, navigating family finances, or seeking a fresh start in your community—know I’m here to help guide you. Taking that first step is hard, but together, we can lay the groundwork for a stronger future.

Enjoy these articles and reach out if I can be of assistance.

Thank you,
Paul Celentano

A difficult truth in life is that if we are never wrong, we probably aren’t trying hard enough. There is comfort in sticking with what we know and in reinforcing our assumptions rather than questioning them. Psychologists call this confirmation bias: the inclination to seek out evidence that tells us we’re right and to avoid what might suggest otherwise.

However, markets are unpredictable by nature. Economic conditions shift, new opportunities arise, and risks evolve. A willingness to ask, “What if I’m wrong?” is a safeguard, not an embarrassment. It’s a mindset that protects your assets, positioning you for long-term growth.

And while saving and strategizing are essential, immiserating yourself and loved ones in favor of an always uncertain future is not the path to abundance. In fact, the act of giving—whether to family, causes you care about, or your community—not only enriches others but brings a profound sense of prosperity and fulfillment.

I encourage you to lean into curiosity, to be open to revisiting assumptions, even uncomfortable ones, and to keep in mind that wealth is not measured only by numbers. It’s measured by the security it provides, the opportunities it allows, and the generosity it enables.

Thank you, as always, for your trust in me. I consider it a privilege to help you chart a path that honors both your future security and your present happiness.