Benefits of Strong Financial Plan

Reasons for a Strong Financial Plan

Protection Against Market Volatility

Since 1926, the S&P 500 has delivered a positive return 74% of the time on a one-year basis. A strong plan keeps you on track during the 26% of the time when markets are negative.

Income Continuation During Illness or Injury

There is about a 25% chance of experiencing a disability significant enough to miss work during your career. Most disabilities are caused by illness—such as cancer, heart disease, or back problems. Protection ensures your income continues even when you cannot work.

Coverage in the Event of Serious Illness

• Cancer: 40% of men and 38% of women in the U.S. will be diagnosed in their lifetime.

• Stroke: 1 in 4 adults over age 25 worldwide will suffer a stroke.

• Chronic Illness: 6 in 10 U.S. adults have at least one chronic condition such as diabetes, COPD, arthritis, or kidney disease. Chronic illness is the leading driver of healthcare costs and one of the main reasons people eventually require long-term care.

Protection Against Inflation

Core inflation in the U.S. has averaged around 3.1%. If your assets are not growing faster than inflation, their real value erodes over time. Investment performance is essential to maintaining purchasing power.

Diversified Retirement Income Beyond 401(k) and Social Security

Relying solely on employer plans and Social Security is risky. Sherwin-Williams recently froze its employer match program. Meanwhile, the Social Security trust fund is projected to be depleted within the next decade, potentially reducing or eliminating benefits. A strong plan ensures multiple income sources in retirement.

Funding Set Aside for Final Expenses & Inheritance

The average cost of a funeral in the U.S. ranges from $7,000 to $12,000. Additionally, fewer than one-third of households receive any inheritance—largely due to rising healthcare expenses, longer retirements, and market volatility that erodes savings over time.