New administration, new economic policies: What it means for business

Economic Reports Drive October Markets

A recent rise in treasury yields has led some to attribute it to possible election outcomes. However, the facts behind the figures are more than just political speculation.

While you may know COBRA, are you aware of all the rules for your organization? Overlooking state continuation laws can be costly. Here's what you need to know.

Each month, Associated Bank's experts dive into finance and business topics, from local real estate to global economic trends and politics' effect on the economy. We bring together leading voices in the fields of commercial real estate, capital markets, commercial banking and private banking to share their insights and expertise to help you stay informed.

Learn how to manage market volatility by sticking to a disciplined, long-term investment strategy and avoiding emotional reactions. Stay on course for financial success.

The U.S. dollar is currently dominating a basket of currencies having its longest winning streak since April 2022 and a 2.8% gain from the top of the month.

It is no secret that kids pay attention to the grownups. They learn a great deal simply from watching their parents’ behaviors. And this is even true when it comes to financial habits. So as your family grows, your expenses change, and your budget shifts, why not include your young ones on the conversation?

The beginning of a new plan year is an opportunity to set your team and your employees up for success all year long. We can show you how!

Watch our webinar with Tom Toerpe for insights on the Fed’s rate cut and strategies to navigate shifting financing costs for borrowers and investors.

Third Quarter 2024

By tracking your expenses, you create a clear record of where your funds are going and can make the necessary adjustments to your spending habits to meet your financial goals.

Most banks offer notary services to customers, making them the easiest and simplest option for finding a notary public near you.

Parents who want to help their teenagers open checking and savings accounts should look at the different joint and custodial account options available at their local bank.

Early Pay service let checking customers access their direct deposits (such as a paycheck) up to two days earlier than normal.

Merchant services is an umbrella term for the different payment-related software and equipment your business needs to accept credit, debit and online forms of payment.

Choosing the best bank for your nonprofit will depend on several factors, from the minimum initial deposit to the presence of brick-and-mortar locations.

Merchant services is an umbrella term for the different payment-related software and equipment your business needs to accept credit, debit and online forms of payment.

Check fraud has been on the rise in recent years, leading many businesses to take steps to detect and prevent cases of fraud.

Starting a successful business means planning for the legal and financial hurdles that may impact your profitability or operations down the line.

Accepting electronic payments improves your ability to predict and manage cash flow, allowing for more efficient business processes and more streamlined operations.

First-time homebuyers have access to special benefits that can help ease them into the homebuying process.

Finding the right business checking account for your organization can help streamline your finances and grow your business.

Opening a business checking account will make it easier for you to understand your finances, process credit card payments and gain access to loans.

Accounts receivable management is the process of monitoring and collecting any money owed to a business for goods or services paid for on credit. Learn more about accounts receivable.

Your credit score is an essential part of building financial security and accessing favorable rates and terms from lenders.

Monitoring your credit score is an important part of ensuring your long-term financial health and gaining access to favorable loan rates.

Customer loyalty programs are a powerful way to increase brand awareness and customer retention for your small business.

Creating a plan to monitor and check your credit score regularly will help you stay on track to achieving your financial goals.

The fixed-rate option for HELOCs can help homeowners put stability and predictability in their borrowing. Managing fixed-rate balances alongside your variable-rate line can help you control your overall financial strategy.

Discover how educating employees about Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) can enhance financial wellness, increase enrollment and drive cost savings for both employees and employers.

Improving your cash flow can often be a challenge for business owners, especially when it comes to increasing sales and driving stronger profitability.

Maintaining your home equity line of credit (HELOC) includes understanding the right strategies for paying it back. You only need to make monthly interest-only payments during the initial draw period, but paying on the principal as well can help you get the most of your available credit line. Here’s how you can work toward “zero balance.”

A home equity line of credit (HELOC) offers financial flexibility to pay for household projects as well as education, paying off other debts and more. But once you’ve applied and been approved, what comes next? 

Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is a security measure that requires you to navigate a two-step process to prove your identity before logging into an account. This additional layer of security helps ensure that even if your password is compromised, unauthorized access is still prevented.

Use this interest rate mortgage calculator to get an estimate on your monthly mortgage payment over the life of the loan. Fixed-rate loans are commonly offered in 10-, 20-, 25- and 30-year terms. Enter details here.

Use this closing cost calculator to estimate your overall closing expenses for buying a home. Enter details here.

This tool shows what your monthly mortgage payment can be and is influenced by many factors, including the price of the home, your down payment, the length of the loan, property taxes, homeowners insurance and the interest rate on the loan. Enter your details below to estimate your monthly mortgage payment.

Planning for retirement is important, and it’s never too early do so. Even if you’re many years from retirement, you should be saving now.

A well-managed accounts payable process can improve your business’s reputation and make it easier to acquire the goods and services you need to succeed.

Learn how to make a mobile check deposit

Small Business Saturday is an annual tradition that emphasizes the importance of small businesses in the American economy.

Health savings accounts (HSAs) are a convenient way to cover the costs of healthcare. Certificates of deposit (CDs) are known for their security and stability. Combine the two, and you can accrue interest, let them grow for years, and effectively build long-term savings for healthcare and more.

This tool calculates the maturity value of your certificate of deposit (CD). CDs are time deposits that are guaranteed for up to $250,000 per depositor per institution by the U.S. Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC). Because CDs are federally insured, they are considered relatively conservative investments. As a result, they pay a lower interest rate than non-insured investments such as stocks and bonds.

This tool calculates the future value of your savings based on the savings information that you provide. The calculator assumes you save with a taxable account. If you want to simulate saving with a tax-advantaged account, enter a zero in the fields for federal and state income tax rates.

Use this home equity line of credit calculator to estimate your monthly payments based on the desired loan amount, available interest rate options and other factors. Enter details here.

This tool shows the benefits of compounding over a range of saving periods. You enter an interest rate that you expect to earn on your deposits. The calculator assumes you are using a tax-advantaged account and that interest is compounded monthly.

Learn how changing short and long term interest rates can affect your company's balance sheet and income statement, and how to manage your interest rate exposure with bank products like fixed and floating rate loans, interest rate swaps, and other hedging tools.

Discover how the US economy thrives amid Federal Reserve challenges.

Estate planning goes beyond wealth preservation. Discover how to pass on core values, ensuring a lasting legacy for future generations.

How new technologies are reshaping industries and the workforce and what it means for the future of business.

Strengthen your defenses against online fraud and cybercrimes with 10 simple tips.

Choosing the best credit card for your small business often means looking at factors outside of the card’s APR and fees.

Explore personalized wealth planning for every life stage, from growth to retirement. Elevate your financial future with our expert-guided strategies and tools.

Markets have had a strong start to the year and are already setting new records. On February 9th, 2024, the S&P 500 marked a new record high crossing 5,000 for the first time. The widely followed S&P 500 is the benchmark index that tracks 500 of the largest U.S. publicly traded companies.  

Learn the historical impact of U.S. presidential elections on the stock market and how investors and retirees can maintain a stable financial strategy during political transitions.

The SECURE Act 2.0 introduces several key changes to retirement and savings accounts for Americans

The primary benefit of a safe harbor 401(k) plan is that it provides for the automatic passage of annual nondiscrimination tests that can otherwise limit the contributions made by certain company owners and other highly compensated employees. Learn more about the advantages of these plans for your business.

Maxing out your contributions to your HSA each month can be a smart strategy for investing in your long-term financial future.

The term “retirement readiness” refers to the degree to which an individual has financially and legally prepared themselves for retirement. Learn more about how you can determine if you’re ready for retirement.

Did you know there are things you can do to get more out of your account(s)? Let us show you how!

Running your business efficiently is likely at the top of your priority list. Here are some tips to streamline your day-to-day business operations, save money, and find new levels of success.

In this article, we’ll cover the basics of how you can measure the health of your business’s retirement plan, including topics ranging from your fiduciary duties to investment selection and monitoring.

Your HSA can be more than a way to pay for healthcare expenses. Learn how you can use your account to help you meet your financial goals!

While both plans have distinct advantages, growing firms will often convert their SIMPLE IRA offerings to 401(k) plans due to the higher contribution limits and increased flexibility.

Nonprofits face unique challenges when it comes to asset management. Check out this article to learn more about how a nonprofit can benefit from partnering with an institutional asset management firm.

In this article, we explore this nuanced distinction to provide context on why you might want to choose a bank or a brokerage as the custodian for your financial portfolio.

Finding the right investment manager can be a long and complex process, but the reward is a partnership that can last decades.

Learn more about what ESG investing is and the role it plays in your overall portfolio by reading this article from our resource center. Link in our bio.

The active vs. passive investing debate centers on whether the greater returns and risk of active management can offset the consistent gains of passive investing.

Milwaukee's makeover - blending arts with enterprise

Fraud continues to be on the rise, and with new schemes emerging frequently, it's difficult to know if your company, customer, colleague and vendor data are protected. Your business stores sensitive, personal data, which is valuable information for criminals, but may have detrimental impacts on those whose information has been compromised. Being well informed is one way to keep your business and those you do business with safe from fraudsters.

Learn the essentials of estate planning to safeguard your assets and impart your values for a thoughtful, enduring family legacy.

If you missed it, check out this video for an in depth conversation on the current state of the US interest rate market. We reviewed how the economy has responded to higher rates so far, evaluated market expectations for both long- and short-term rates and provided business leaders with a road map for navigating risks and opportunities as the current interest rate cycle enters a new phase.

Learn how to use Activation Zone on your phone.

Learn how to use Activation Zone on your computer.

Nonprofits partner with banks to access treasury management services, lending options and specialized accounts that fit their size and automation needs. But the relationship can be more than that. Together, they can reach community goals and the people and causes these nonprofits serve.

Your hard-earned financial assets deserve personalized wealth management. Finding a trusted local team of specialists is crucial. Here’s why you should select a private banker who delivers the right combination of dedication, unbiased advice, comprehensive strategies and financial and wealth planning solutions, designed around you.

Learn how to report your debit card lost or stolen.

Learn how to report your debit card lost or stolen.

Create a special needs trust and appoint a trustee for your financial plan.

If the supply chain crunch of the past few years has any silver lining, it’s the lesson that restricting your vendor options to one or two sources can backfire. If you’re considering broadening your circle of suppliers, you might want to look within your own community—and find partners you’ve never considered before. 

Explore the implications of the impending sunset of the elevated federal estate tax threshold and strategies to navigate this significant financial change.

Unlock the benefits of Charitable Gift Annuities and Legacy IRA QCDs under the new SECURE Act 2.0 guidelines with our accessible guide.

The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 will be sunset in 2026. Here’s everything you should know about it.

The shifting of roles can be challenging, and emotions often prevent important information from being exchanged and critical decisions from being made.

We all make mistakes. The key is to learn from them and try not to repeat them. Financial mistakes can be particularly costly and can have long-term implications. Throughout my career, I’ve witnessed plenty of missteps and “I wish I hadn’t done that” moments. I thought it might be helpful to share some of the most common.

Learn how to consolidate your Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) to maximize earnings, avoid unnecessary fees, and simplify your financial management.

Learn how to use Actionable Insights

Learn how to use Actionable Insights

Learn more about how to prevent fraud within your business and the ways companies continue to be at risk.

When the assets of an estate can be expected to appreciate, one tool for preserving the value of those assets is termed the Defective Grantor Trust. It is not only a technique for dealing separately with income tax and estate tax, but also an example of the beneficiaries of an estate receiving the full value available.

Making up for lost time and sales resulting from the supply chain crisis, most manufacturers increased orders in hopes of catching up. However, now that suppliers are able to ship and deliver, a new issue has arisen: dealing with increased inventory levels.

In December Congress passed the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023 which contains a large section covering retirement referred to as SECURE 2.0.

While it’s difficult to predict what type of care any one person might need or how long he or she will need it, statistics reveal women need for care are averaging longer at 3.7 years to men’s 2.2 years. (20% will need care for more than five years. 

You should consider five key qualities when choosing the best HSA administrator for your business.

Investing in a recession comes with concerns, but patience and adherence may be the best approach. Associated Bank Private Wealth help clients handle whatever the markets throw at us.

The Charitable Lead Annuity Trust, or CLAT, is an irrevocable trust that offers benefactors a way to contribute payments to a charitable trust, a donor-advised fund, or a foundation of the grantor’s choosing for a specific term of years or for the lifetime of the grantor, with the balance distributed to the grantor’s descendants or other beneficiaries at the end of the specified term.

Play this short demo to learn how to lock and unlock your debit card in digital banking

Play this short demo to learn how to lock and unlock your debit card in digital banking

Generally speaking, you should save roughly 20% of your gross income for retirement and other savings goals per month.

Time in market beats timing the market. Waiting will likely lead to continued procrastination. Associated Bank Private Wealth can help you pursue your financial goals.

We know that taxes are one of life’s two inevitables. So, the question is not if you will pay taxes on your retirement accounts, but when and how much. That’s where Roth IRAs enter the discussion, especially in the current tax and market environment.

Estate planning documents are essential because no one can predict the future. But one thing is sure: If we leave unanswered questions about how to settle our affairs, life for those we love could be even more difficult. Below are brief descriptions about each of these estate planning documents and what each does.

Women who share money management duties with their partner tend to take on a lion’s share of the responsibility for the household finances. Yet only 18% of women feel very confident in their ability to fully retire with a comfortable lifestyle.

The right small business banking partner can accelerate your business’s growth through access to accounts and services tailored to help you manage your funds.

Choosing a bank is an important decision, so you’ll want to look at several factors that can impact your choice.

By following a few basic tips, you can stay safe when online banking and stay on track toward your financial goals. In this article from our Resource Center, we cover five powerful tips you can implement today to ensure your funds stay secure

Financial experts generally use one of several shorthand rules to estimate how much money you’ll need in retirement.

If you want to start a new emergency fund, consider a few basics for how much to save and where to put your money.

Partnering with a dedicated HSA provider is an excellent way to increase employee enrollment and engagement in your organization’s HSA plan.

The primary benefit of an HDHP is the potential to help you save money on insurance premiums each year and pairing with an HSA.

Health savings accounts (HSAs) are one of the best ways to save money for healthcare and other expenses in retirement.

An HSA is a tax-advantaged savings and investing account you can use to pay for healthcare expenses with tax-free money.

If you find fraudulent charges on your account, you should immediately contact your bank to report the issue.

Check out these six quick tips you can use to improve your financial health and work toward your future goals.

Diversification is vital to your investment strategy. Understanding diversification and the advantages of diversifying your investment portfolio are crucial to any investor.

The main differences between health savings accounts (HSAs) and flexible spending accounts (FSAs) are account ownership and portability.

A high-deductible health plan (HDHP) is a form of health insurance that trades higher deductibles for lower premiums.

Saving for retirement can often feel like a daunting task filled with complex investing terms and more acronyms than you can count.

However, making sure you have enough money to retire doesn’t have to be overly complex.

Learn five essential tips you need to know to figure out the best way to track your spending and stay in line with your budget.

A vast opportunity presents itself today, more than ever, for businesses to become more resilient and agile by aligning their supply chains. Years ago, proximity to resources, access to markets and conventional transportation were enough to fuel growth and prosperity. In the past century, dynamics have shifted and what once would position your company for success, may not be enough now.

A home equity line of credit (HELOC) is a very powerful borrowing tool, offering both financial freedom and flexibility for homeowners who have built equity in their home. Put simply, a HELOC is a flexible, variable-rate line of credit, secured by home equity, that has an almost unlimited number of uses.

A 401(k) is a tax-advantaged investment account commonly offered by employers as a retirement savings benefit to employees.

Ensuring you have enough money for retirement might not be as important in your 20s and 30s as it is in your 40s and 50s. However, any progress you make in your early years can have an enormous impact on the size of your nest egg come retirement. Check out this article from our Resource Center to learn more about compounding interest and why investing early and often is the best strategy for meeting your retirement goals.

The holidays can get expensive, so it’s always wise to start the season with a budget and a plan in mind for managing your spending.

Charity Olson, SVP Personal Trust Manager discusses how to prepare for year end in terms of financial planning.

Learn how to write a check by following six basic steps, from filling in the correct date to signing the check at the end of the process.

Nobody wants to overdraft their account. However, in the event of an emergency or other unexpected event, you might find yourself in the red. Banks offer a variety of services to help protect you in the event you overdraw your account.

You can quickly and easily find your bank routing number by checking the nine-digit code in the bottom-left corner of your personal checks.

Learn how to choose the right checking account by following a few basic tips such as looking for low fees and online banking options.

Direct deposit is a helpful financial tool for safely and conveniently transferring money from one account to another. The most common use of direct deposit is for paychecks, as close to 94% of all working Americans use direct deposit to receive their pay every payday.

An estate plan could include a trust, will, powers of attorney and beneficiary forms. Ensure you have everything else you need to ensure your loved ones are in the best position to manage your estate.

Purchasing your first home can be both exciting and complex, and you may need help figuring out where to start. 

On average, women are retiring two years earlier and living three to five years longer than their male counterparts. While many elements surrounding longevity are ultimately out of your control, you can take steps to be financially prepared for both the expected and the unexpected. And as a woman, there are some unique considerations you should be aware of when planning for the years to come.

Associated Choice Checking offers a set of exclusive benefits called Platinum Choice that you can unlock once you reach a certain threshold in your balance.

For Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs), critical expertise or support may be missing when doing international business with a provider. It’s important for SMEs to find a foreign exchange (FX) provider that fills the void.

Learn what qualifies as a Charitable Distribution and the Tax Advantages involved if you have not met your IRA requirement minimum distribution.

A checking account is a bank account designed for everyday use that makes it easy to deposit, withdraw and transfer money.

Learn how rising interest rates can affect your homebuying power, your mortgage and how much home you can ultimately afford.

While there’s no one “perfect” way to pay off credit card debt, common strategies like the snowball method, the avalanche method, debt consolidation and performing a balance transfer can help you eliminate credit card debt.

Charitable giving continues to grow as an active component of people’s lives and finances, especially for women. Having a strategy in place is important to make the most of your charitable giving and financial planning.

While there are several strategies for paying off your debt, it all comes down to one key word: balance.

Learn how to reset your password

Play this short demo to learn how to unlock your account in digital banking

Learn how to reset your password

Play this short demo to learn how to unlock your account in digital banking

Learn how to set up account alerts and quiet time

A goal-based financial investment strategy sets you on a path for better wealth management. Using goals helps you match your time horizon to your asset allocation, which means you take on the optimum amount of risk. By setting specific goals, you are more likely to achieve them.

Learn how to pay a bill

Learn how to view transaction history

Learn how to pay a bill

Learn how to set up account alerts and quiet time

Learn how to delete a payee

Learn how to enroll in digital banking

Learn how to enroll in digital banking

Learn how to delete a payee

Learn how to set up recurring payments

Learn how to make a mobile check deposit

Learn how to view and edit your Preferences in Associated Bank Digital, including how to mark accounts as favorites and even turn off accounts you don’t want to appear.

Learn how to view and edit your Preferences in Associated Bank Digital, including how to mark accounts as favorites and even turn off accounts you don’t want to appear.

Learn how to set up recurring payments

Learn how to view transaction history

Learn how to navigate through Quick Access

Learn how to navigate through Quick Access

Learn how to retrieve your username 

Learn how to edit a payee

Learn how to transfer funds between accounts to make a loan payment

Learn how to retrieve your username

Learn how to update your personal information

Learn how to transfer funds between accounts to make a loan payment

Play this short demo to learn how to add an external account or loan in digital banking

Learn how to update your personal information

Learn how to edit a payee

Learn How to add an external account or loan in Associated Bank Digital.

Play this short demo to learn how to add a payee in digital banking

Play this short demo to learn how to add a payee in digital banking

Play this short demo to learn how quick and easy it is to sign in to your digital banking

“We noticed a shortage of vegan food options when we dined out,” Brandon explained. “That’s what inspired us to start Twisted Plants

Play this short demo to learn how quick and easy it is to sign in to your digital banking

At Associated Bank, we recognize the changing face of Milwaukee’s leadership. Younger and more diverse voices have a seat at the table, and we welcome the importance of mentoring this young talent and connecting with different generations to foster collaboration. At Associated Bank, we recognize the changing face of Milwaukee’s leadership. Younger and more diverse voices have a seat at the table, and we welcome the importance of mentoring this young talent and connecting with different generations to foster collaboration.

Many of today’s “senior citizens” are living independent lives longer than past generations. They’re active in their communities, help with the grandchildren and keep physically fit. They browse the internet and participate in social media. But they can still be subject to scams, frauds and other financial crimes.

In today’s uncertain economic times, personal risk management has become a vital component of a cohesive wealth management strategy for affluent individuals.

Growing up, Wilona Young watched her grandmother operate a successful barbeque restaurant in Chicago. “Seeing her success as a small business owner gave me the inspiration and courage I needed to start my own business.”

Erika Gudgeon has always been passionate about sports, fitness, and helping people feel better about themselves. She wanted to not only share her passions and experience but teach people how to use their workouts as an effective stress reliever.

When circumstances change, even the most solid financial plan needs to be adjusted. Learn about how to strategize for marriage, divorce, estate planning and more.

“Crypto” is many different things to many different people. To some it is the future of money. To others, it is a technology that will decentralize established global systems. And, to many, it is also a way to get rich quickly...

Metric Forrest Studio connected with the Wisconsin Women’s Business Initiative Corporation (WWBIC), which loaned them money to support their business. In 2021, they received additional support with a $5,000 grant from Associated Bank and Brewers Community Foundation.

A home equity line of credit (HELOC) is a very powerful and flexible financial tool, allowing you to borrow funds using the equity you’ve built in your home.

It’s your life. Shouldn’t your dreams, goals, and hopes for the future be at the center of your financial planning goals?

Passionate entrepreneurs who love what they do often hate to talk about succession planning. But it is inevitable that you and your partners will not own your business forever. This is why it’s so important to put a plan in place now for leadership, decision rights and the strategic vision for the business

In this webinar, Lori Novak and Angie Kappel discuss the best ways to use foreign exchange to boost your business. 

Life is full of surprises. Taking some steps to protect yourself financially can eliminate many of the headaches and hardships associated with emergencies.

A business without efficiency is a business that’s guaranteed to fail. Optimize your business efficiency and automate your financial processes with Treasury Management services. These services allow you to keep a high level of visibility into your daily balances, manage your funds with a high degree of precision, and even capitalize on your excess cash at competitive rates of return.

There are significant differences between a HELOC (home equity line of credit) and a home equity loan. Learn how to choose the right option for your needs.

According to Associated Bank’s Michelle Long, having a clear picture of your family’s finances can be an intimidating task, but it’s critical for handling both planned and unplanned money management. As a lead financial planner, she’s seen the challenges some of her female clients face and emphasizes the importance of being well-prepared and well-informed. 

The key areas that usually tip the scales one way or the other are compliance testing, employee participation, retention, and the amount you expect to contribute towards your employee retirement accounts.

Finances are often one of the biggest challenges in starting a small business. That’s why Associated Bank and the Brewers Community Foundation provided a grant to help veteran Patrick Doll get Fleet Clean USA, a mobile truck washing service off the ground. Learn more about Fleet Clean USA.

If you’re a homeowner, you’re probably familiar with equity. Equity is the difference between your home’s value, and the total amount of your home loan remaining.  Most of the time, the equity you’ve built in your home goes unused. But what if you could leverage that equity for home improvements, renovations, and other expenses?

For many people, renting a home vs. buying comes down to a few simple factors, including lifestyle preferences, monthly costs, and lifetime costs. In this article, we’ll look at the pros and cons of renting and buying, and which is right option for you.

If you’re in business, you know that opportunities for growth can come quickly. Your ability to secure the right kind of financing can often be the key to making the move or not. Many lenders base their decisions on “the 5 Cs of credit.” Knowing what these involve—and being ready to answer these questions quickly—can put you in the best position to make the most of a promising opportunity.

Promotions can be a powerful way to capture customers’ attention, create excitement and encourage more sales.  Here are promotion ideas from Clover®.

Electronic data breaches have become an increasingly common occurrence these days, causing fears among consumers and leading many to look for the appropriate precautionary measures. We reveal the ways financial institutions and individuals alike can help protect themselves.

Julie Niznansky Vice President, Private Banker shares comprehensive financial advice. Julie walks through the steps it takes to build a sound financial foundation, sharing expert tips and advice for individuals at all income levels. Walk away from this one hour webinar feeling more secure and confident about your financial future.

To make the homebuying process easier despite these challenging conditions, we’ve put together a few tips to help you each step of the way.

Protecting your business from fraud, starts with protecting yourself from fraud.

While the five key risks to retirement – longevity, inflation, healthcare, market and withdrawal risk – are common to most retirees, their impact will vary depending upon your particular needs and circumstances.

Financial wellness isn’t taught in most schools. With these simple tips, anyone can achieve financial wellness.

Featuring David DeChamps from FID discussing the importance of being aware of fraud and how to protect yourself from schemes. 

With commodity costs skyrocketing and fluctuating daily, our clients need more availability to ensure that they can source materials and deliver to their customers. See what Adam Lutostanski says about how Associated Bank takes uncertainty out of the equation

Associated Bank knows you need to remain flexible in this environment. And capital expenditure facilities can allow you to do that in this ever-changing labor market,” says Adam Lutostanski, Head of Illinois, Missouri and Ohio Commercial Banking.

Your credit score is the one of the most important and easiest ways to quickly determine your financial health.

Did you know small businesses are big drivers of the economy? According to the Small Business Administration, there are nearly 30 million of them in the United States, employing 56.8 million workers. Even more impressive, companies with fewer than 500 employees account for 99.7% of all business in the U.S., driving their local economies and enriching local communities.

As you get closer to your retirement years, you’re likely to have many considerations around your financial standing that you did not have previously. From your investments to your retirement accounts, or even how to manage your social security once you start receiving it, there is a great deal that comes with this new phase of your life.

Though you have safety measures in place, and perhaps even a functioning emergency fund, financial setbacks can sideline your small business. Whether because of a business misstep  or an unforeseen occurrence that has interfered with your workflow, setbacks can add financial stress to your business in all sorts of ways.

Need to make a big purchase? Distinguish between "needs" and "wants". This guide will help you learn to save money using a sinking fund: set an amount, timeline and automate savings in a separate account. Tools like Associated Bank Digital's Money Monitor assist in optimizing savings. Achieve dreams without financial stress.

There are many things worth saving your money for, and most of them likely coincide with your goals. While it is common for people to think of goals as items or situations that would better their lives, they do not have to come in form of purchases.

As you continue to enter new phases of your life, you are likely to come across new expenses. This has always been a financial reality, but as you age and your responsibilities increase, this financial reality may become more frequent.

You’ll find the house buying process to be thrilling and rewarding. But, it can also be daunting and confusing at times. This article will walk you through how to prepare to buy a house, from getting your finances ready to signing on closing day.

There are really only two ways to improve your financial standing: make more money or spend less money. The former is a bit trickier and more out of your control, which makes it a bit more difficult to rely on. Spending less money, on the other hand, makes it easier to save. And this option puts you in better charge of your finances, while at the same time, prepares you for the future.

Having a baby is a joyous occasion, but it’s no secret that children can be costly. However, revisiting your financial plan and establishing a new budget for something like this is a celebration in and of itself.

Bitcoin and cryptocurrencies are among the most revolutionary trends in the financial world right now, but to the general public, they’re still somewhat of a mystery. While its decade-long development has seen fits and starts, “crypto” has taken a toehold on the market—even in areas where everyday consumers might begin to see its use and effects.

Personal financial planning might seem like a broad concept that encompasses just about every aspect of your financial life. If you don’t have a financial plan in place, this might seem like a daunting effort or perhaps a rigid way to go through your expenses. However, this is not the case. In fact, it’s quite the opposite.

The importance of emergency funds includes the ability to meet basic needs in the event of an unforeseen life event, such as a job loss. It’s also necessary to consider other aspects such as continuation of lifestyle, protecting wealth, avoiding debt and more.

Your financial situation, just like your life, is unique. You have your own interests and your own plans for the future, and your investments should not only help you reach the future you envision, but they should align with these interests as well.

Credit is an easy way to make major and everyday purchases affordable. Sometimes, however, it can be too easy. Spending more than you earn in any given period is a dangerous practice at best.

Debt and instant credit are part of our everyday lives. But what’s the balance between using it wisely and having your debt spiral out of control? Here are the two main kinds of debt and credit that you’re most likely to use, and what they involve.

Online digital banking tools like Associated Bank Digital have features and advantages for better account management from your computer or mobile device.

From the Smart Business Dealmakers Conference, Associated Bank’s John Kvamme and host Dustin Klein discuss the discovery, preparation and exit phases of a sale transaction. They also delve into how sellers can maximize their understanding of these phases to achieve a successful transaction.

The importance of having—and sticking to—a budget is no secret, and there are plenty of resources available to help you get started. However, once that budget is created, what comes next?

According to some studies, a typical business loses about 5% of annual income due to one infuriating cause: fraud.

When it comes to planning your big day, it’s important that you also factor in the rest of your life. A wedding is a wonderful celebration that you, your spouse and all of your guests will remember for years to come. But you don’t want those years to start out in debt.

The old phrase “If it ain’t broke…” can easily apply to finances. However, when it comes to banking and managing your money, it might be time to retire this saying

When putting together a budget and establishing your financial plan for the future, there are many factors to consider. After all, a budget doesn’t only account for your monthly expenses, but your goals as well, even if they aren’t yet within financial reach.

There is never a bad time to set a budget, but if you have not already, those early days of financial independence are a great time to get started. As a young adult starting college or gaining workforce experience, you’ll find that having a budget in place will play a more impactful role than it has in the past.

Women’s savings plans—what to keep in mind when you’re a woman looking to save.

Having a solid balance in your savings account or an impressive credit score are not achievements that happen instantly. In fact, quite the opposite. Being financially sound is a goal that takes smart and ongoing spending and saving habits.

Debt can be a difficult thing to carry around, and if left ignored, it can be a hindrance to your financial planning efforts. And while there are many different strategies for lowering and managing debt, it really all comes down to one word: Balance.

After years of a tight labor market, small and mid-sized businesses are now facing a radically different recruitment landscape. The available talent pool is deeper than ever before, and the number of skilled candidates has never been higher. 

Credit can be a powerful financial asset to have on your side, making you more attractive to lenders and enabling you to secure better rates on loans you might need. But having good credit (and more specifically, a good credit score) is something that is achieved, not something that is simply provided or assigned to you.

Are you hoping to purchase a home in Bay View, Wauwatosa, Whitefish Bay, Oak Creek or any of Milwaukee’s other vibrant communities?

During times of uncertainty, many small businesses find bill payments, invoicing, disbursements and managing cash flow difficult. These concerns can be overwhelming but knowing which products and services are available to you can make managing your day-to-day cash flow easier, even with increasing transfers and deposits.

We know that understanding how to protect your money is a top priority for you. We’re here to offer some easy suggestions to help you feel a sense of security.

Some simple tips for budgeting and savings? We’ve got them. It’s easier than you think to get started with a simple budget and start saving toward tomorrow.

It can be easy to go over-budget during the holiday season. Use these simple tips to set a budget and stick to it.

Attendees of the recent treasury and cash management conference, the Windy City Summit, covered discussions on treasury management trends like rates, cards and real-time master payments, but one topic continued to be a significant threat that touches on nearly every conversation, especially those that focus on technology: fraud.

Did you know your investments could be in a much lower capital gains tax bracket even though your taxable income is much higher? Don’t feel bad if you didn’t because I talk to many high-net-worth families and individuals who don’t realize there is an opportunity to leverage a 0% tax rate on long-term capital gains.

In a recent interview on WGN, SVP and Senior HR Consultant Bret McKitrick shared his perspectives on the topic of employee testing and explored the best practices and legal ramifications around their use.

For years, employers have administered personality assessments, or integrity tests as they’re sometimes called, when screening applicants and new hires. Their aim is to point out traits, characteristics or even temperaments that can predict the employee’s fit in a company culture, or their potential for success.

ACH payments have made headlines in the corporate banking space, as they’ve recently gotten speedier for corporations in the United States. Chuck Garcia, Former Director of Commercial Deposits and Treasury Management at Associated Bank, provides a bit of context around the use of ACH payments over the years.

Many of the clients I’ve been fortunate to serve over the years tell me that recruiting senior executives is one of their biggest challenges. These organizations often fit a certain type of profile. They are successful companies with established track records. They are financially solid, even somewhat conservative. But their headquarters is not located in a well-known city with a reputation for excitement.

Because some work can be performed from nearly anyplace with a Wi-Fi connection, there’s less of a need for the traditional office space. Some workers may even report to and interact with supervisors hundreds of miles away. Other companies, particularly startups, are now doing business out of the next generation of offices: the shared space.

With their diplomas and degrees in hand, another group of graduates is off to tackle the world of “adulting.” Whether they’re making the transition to a college campus or that first real job, they should have a firm grasp on the basics of financial literacy—but do they?

Whenever mortgage rates start drifting downward, homeowners’ thoughts often turn to refinancing. Now is no exception. But is it a good idea for your situation?

Clients are relying on bank expertise perhaps more than ever. One way banks can help clients is with understanding exchange rates and making smart decisions around which currency – U.S. dollars or another currency – is most appropriate to use in a given business transaction.

Financial advisors operate in a variety of capacities—some are more focused on saving and investing, some are more equipped to handle high-net-worth needs like estate planning and business succession and some are online robo-advisors—but the key elements remain the same.

Commercial real estate continues to make headlines in Chicago, feeding simultaneously into daily water cooler conversations and analyst reports alike, as large-scale renovations begin at Willis Tower, new dorm-style apartments target young professionals and a number of new office spaces, like the swanky 150 N. Riverside Plaza building, open their doors.

According to Doug Myers, Chicago Private Client Market Leader with Associated Bank, putting together a plan for managing wealth means ascertaining client desires for the future.

Everyone looks for trends, for what's big, for what's at the forefront of conversation when the calendar turns the page to a new year. Doug Myers, Chicago Private Client Market Leader with Associated Bank, pinpoints wealth management as a top financial industry topic this year.

"When you take a look at the foreign exchange markets – and they are on a 24-hour basis the way they move around – there is risk that companies, or CFOs of companies, face 24 hours a day," said Don Lloyd, Senior Vice President and Manager of Capital Markets – Foreign Exchange, Rate Swaps and Commodity Derivatives at Associated Bank.