Summary

For consumers who want to meet specific financial goals and attain overall financial well-being, the past couple of decades have been turbulent. Many consumers no longer have stability in their workplace benefits and, for instance, must plan for their own retirement. Changes in interest rates and the bond and stock markets have seemed constant, so consumers are unable to park their money in one place and be sure that it will grow to meet their needs. In addition, the incredible proliferation of financial products makes the decision-making process surrounding financial concerns increasingly overwhelming.