Resource Articles

Personal – Saving, Planning & Budgeting

Applying for Social Security Retirement Benefits

Utilize the Social Security website to apply online for retirement, calculate the age you can maximize benefits, and learn what documentation you will need.

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Weekly Market Update: October 15, 2024

The S&P 500 Index continued to grind higher, ending last week up 23% on a total return basis year-to-date. Third quarter earnings season began last week and investors will closely follow company reports for indications on 2025 corporate earnings and clues on the economy.

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Sunflower Bank – Market Commentary

Weekly Market Update: October 7, 2024

Last week was highlighted by Friday’s blockbuster Nonfarm Payrolls report which surpassed forecasts, revealing that the US added 254,000 jobs in September.

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Sunflower Bank – Market Commentary

Weekly Market Update: September 30, 2024

A benign PCE inflation reading reassured Fed officials following their recent 50-basis point cut. The 0.1% month-over-month increase in Core PCE Inflation was another positive data point in the battle to stamp out high inflation.

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Sunflower Bank – Market Commentary

Weekly Market Update: September 23, 2024

After a dramatic leadup to the September FOMC, Fed officials cut the federal funds rate by 50 basis points instead of 25. The first rate cut since 2020.

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Personal – Saving, Planning & Budgeting

Budgets for Real Life

Not only will budgeting help you find control over your spending, but it will also help you find financial purpose and peace.

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Sunflower Bank – Market Commentary

Weekly Market Update: September 16, 2024

The Fed will make its highly anticipated rate decision this week. A cut during the September meeting has been all but guaranteed for the past few weeks and the remaining debate surrounded the size. A 25-basis point cut seemed a near certainty following higher than expected CPI data last week, but a curiously timed Wall Street Journal article reopened the discussion. Now a 50-basis point cut appears most likely.

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Sunflower Bank – Market Commentary

Weekly Market Update: September 9, 2024

The S&P 500 fell -4% last week, its worst week since March 2023. Job market data also disappointed, but shouldn't force a 50-point rate cut at September FOMC.

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Personal – Saving, Planning & Budgeting

Is an Annuity Right for You?

Annuities can be beneficial, but they're not for everyone. Carefully evaluate your financial situation and goals to determine if they're right for you.

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