The job market in West Michigan is undergoing a significant transition. Across Grand Rapids, Muskegon, Holland, Zeeland, and Kalamazoo, companies are announcing layoffs in manufacturing, finance, and media. While each case is unique, the broader picture reveals a region adapting to automation, inflation, and changing global demand. Layoffs Impacting Key Industries in West Michigan Manufacturing and Furniture Production Manufacturing — long the backbone of West Michigan’s economy—has been hit hard. Companies such as Howard Miller, MillerKnoll, and Marshall Excelsior have announced facility closures or staff reductions, together affecting hundreds of employees across Ottawa and Allegan Counties. Source: Here Detroit MI Professional Services and Office Jobs Beyond manufacturing, white-collar roles in finance, accounting, and administration are being downsized as companies adopt AI-driven tools to streamline operations. Analysts from Grand Valley State University estimate that recent regional layoffs could remove $20–30 million in annual local spending, reducing demand for retail, housing, and

Navigating Medicare enrollment in West Michigan is one of the most important steps in preparing for a successful retirement. With multiple enrollment periods, different plan types, and dozens of coverage options, it can feel overwhelming to know where to begin. At Jacobs Financial Services, we love helping our clients succeed in retirement—not just with investments and financial strategies, but also by connecting them with trusted professionals who can guide them through healthcare decisions like Medicare. One of the advisors we proudly recommend is Lauri Veneman, Independent Advisor with Pathway Advising, who specializes in Medicare Supplements and Medicare Advantage Plans. Her personal, no-fee approach gives clients confidence that they’ve found the right plan for their needs. Understanding Medicare Basics Medicare is the federal health insurance program primarily for people age 65 and older, though certain individuals with disabilities may qualify earlier. It is divided into four main parts: Part A (Hospital

Protect your Income with the Me-First Rule of Retirement Spending Retirement should be a time to relax and enjoy the rewards of your hard work. But one common concern for many retirees is: What if I run out of money? Market fluctuations, rising costs, and longer life expectancies can make even a well-planned retirement feel uncertain. To address these concerns, focusing on guaranteed retirement income can provide security and peace of mind. The Me-First rule of retirement spending, also called the flooring method, is a practical way to reduce that worry. This strategy focuses on guaranteed retirement income for essential expenses, ensuring your guaranteed retirement income covers all necessary costs before spending on discretionary items. By putting your essentials first, you can enjoy retirement with confidence and peace of mind. (Kiplinger, 2025) What Is the Me-First Method in Retirement? The Me-First method ensures that your must-have expenses — housing, healthcare,

You deserve to explore the internet confidently, without getting mugged by malware or conned by cybercrooks. In 2022, folks aged 60+ lost a whopping $3.1 billion to internet fraud. Let’s keep those digits safe, shall we? 1. Don’t Click Fishy Links — it’s Bait Scammers send emails, texts, or social posts that look legit, but one click can download malware or steal your info. Always verify before you trust. Smart play: If a message seems “weirdly urgent,” hit pause, not “reply.” As Avast’s Emma McGowan wisely says: “Scammers always push victims into acting immediately… don’t be duped.” 2. Attachments from Unknown Senders? Nope. Even attachments that look like they’re from friends can be fakes. ZIPs or EXEs are especially risky. When in doubt, reach out directly to your contact before opening anything. 3. Hang Up on Robocalls Spoofed numbers (even your own area code) can be from scam artists abroad.

If retirement already felt like balancing on a tightrope, 2025 has added a few unexpected gusts of wind. Market volatility, new tariffs, and shifting global conditions are reshaping the financial landscape, and for retirees and pre-retirees, this means the stakes have never been higher. When Markets React, They React Fast Recent tariff announcements and geopolitical shifts have sent shockwaves through the markets, triggering sharp drops followed by jittery rebounds. These swings are a reminder that global events can directly impact retirement portfolios in a matter of hours. A sound plan considers not just the long-term growth of assets but also their ability to withstand short-term turbulence. The Ripple Effect of Tariffs on Everyday Life Tariffs often translate to higher costs for imported goods, which can drive up prices on everyday items, from groceries to electronics. For retirees living on a fixed income, this gradual rise in living costs can reduce

Between market volatility, rising interest rates, and whispers of a looming recession, 2025 is forcing many pre-retirees to ask a powerful question: How does this impact my retirement planning in 2025? As we approach the year 2025, retirement planning in 2025 becomes increasingly crucial, requiring an updated approach to financial security. “Is my current retirement plan still the right fit?” The good news? You have more tools and options than ever before to protect what you’ve saved – especially if you’re seeking safety, growth potential, and guaranteed income. One tool that’s gaining renewed attention is the Fixed Indexed Annuity (FIA). Let’s unpack why FIAs are showing up in more retirement plans – and whether they deserve a place in yours. 🔍 What’s Going On With Retirement Right Now? 📈 Retirement Planning in 2025: Key Considerations In the context of retirement planning in 2025, understanding these factors can significantly influence your