Author: Nicole Standen

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How Women Build Wealth Without Guilt

Nicole Standen

At Gainplan, we help women build wealth without guilt.Nicole Standen, CFP® and Chartered Retirement Plan Specialist, shares how many women feel torn between financial independence and the pressure to always put others first. But the truth is—investing in your future isn’t selfish, it’s empowering.

Categories: Education, Family, Gainplan Facts

Skills and Investments That Pay Off Long-Term

Nicole Standen
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In a world where industries are evolving faster than ever, women are increasingly seeking skills and investments that pay off long-term—not just in their careers, but in their overall financial well-being. With shifts in the economy, advancements in technology, and changing job expectations, career stability is no longer…

Categories: News
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College Planning and Letting Go

Nicole Standen

Nicole Standen, a certified financial planner at Gainplan, discusses the emotional and financial journey of sending a daughter off to college. From FAFSA to budgeting, it’s a major transition for both parent and child—marked by love, intention, and the challenge of letting go. She reminds families that college planning is…

Categories: Education, Family, Gainplan Facts
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Why 401k’s Often Fare Better than IRA’s

Nicole Standen

Discover why 401k’s often outshine IRAs in the world of retirement savings! Despite market challenges, 401k balances offer hope for investors. Here are 3 key reasons why: Automatic contributions and employer matches ensure steady retirement savings, potentially mitigating market losses. Limited investment options in 401k plans discourage impulsive decisions during…

Categories: Education
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Why Women Have Different Financial Planning Worries

Nicole Standen

Why Women Face Unique Financial Challenges Women encounter distinct financial planning concerns due to a combination of longer life expectancies, caregiving responsibilities, and a lack of financial services tailored specifically to their needs. Because women often outlive men by several years, they are more likely to shoulder the…

Categories: Education

What is Investment Management? (A Beginner’s Guide) 

Nicole Standen
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Understanding investment management may seem difficult and complicated, but it’s important for anyone who wants to grow their wealth and protect their financial future.  If you know the basics of managing investments, you can make choices that will help you reach your financial goals.  In…

Categories: Education

What Inflation Rate Should You Use For Retirement Planning?

Nicole Standen
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One critical factor often overlooked when planning for retirement is the inflation rate. Understanding what inflation rate to use for retirement planning can be the difference between a comfortable retirement and financial stress in your later years. This article explores why choosing the right inflation rate is crucial and how…

Categories: Education

Passive Investing, Actively

Nicole Standen
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Maximizing Your Success with Index Funds Passive Investing through index funds, which track the entire market or portions of it, has proven to be one of the most effective strategies for long-term wealth building. These funds provide broad market exposure, lower fees, and the potential for steady growth…

Categories: The Market
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Withdrawal Strategies in Retirement

Nicole Standen

What Are Withdrawal Strategies in Retirement? Withdrawal strategies are systematic approaches to managing and accessing your retirement savings to support your lifestyle throughout retirement. These methods help ensure that your funds last by guiding how much to withdraw and when. Common Approaches Popular strategies include fixed-percentage…

Categories: Education