Renewal Pressure Returns

Nicole Standen
Gainplan-Linked-in-–-2026-06-03T102339.253

Benefit renewals are back—and so is the sticker shock. In 2026, rising medical claims, prescription drug costs, specialty medications, and growing demand for treatments like GLP-1s are putting serious pressure on employer health plans. What looked temporary a year ago is now the new normal. For employers, renewal season is…

Categories: Education, Industry Ideas

Summer Travel Plans and Uncertain Skies

Wayne Bell-Warren
Gainplan-Linked-in-–-2026-05-19T162954.753

Summer travel should feel exciting—not like decoding fine print at 30,000 feet. But in 2026, travelers are navigating more turbulence than ever. Flight delays, airspace closures, staffing shortages, rising costs, and shifting global events can disrupt even the most carefully planned getaway. It’s no surprise travel insurance is showing up…

Categories: Education, Industry Ideas

Subtle Shifts, Real Opportunity

Patrick Nalepa
Gainplan-Linked-in-–-2026-04-29T125446.831

At first glance, 2026 capital gains rules feel unchanged—but that familiarity can be misleading. Long-term gains still benefit from preferential tax rates of 0%, 15%, or 20%, while short-term gains are taxed at higher ordinary income rates. The 3.8% Net Investment Income Tax (NIIT) continues to apply for higher earners.

Categories: Education, Gainplan Facts, Industry Ideas

What You Need to Know About Inherited IRA Rules

Nicole Standen
Gainplan-Linked-in-–-2026-04-22T125130.255

Understanding the SECURE Act and what it means for your beneficiaries The SECURE Act of 2019 significantly changed how inherited IRAs must be distributed, particularly for non-spouse beneficiaries. While the IRS did not finalize regulations until 2024, these updates now provide long-awaited clarity around required minimum distributions (RMDs) and the…

Categories: Education, Industry Ideas

The Career Advantage of Artificial Intelligence

Patrick Nalepa
Gainplan-Linked-in-(36)

Why AI proficiency is becoming essential in today’s workplace In today’s rapidly evolving business environment, artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer a future concept—it’s a present-day competitive advantage. Organizations are leveraging AI to enhance customer experience, streamline operations, and make more informed financial decisions. In fact, studies show that 70%…

Categories: Careers, Education, Industry Ideas

The Financial Impact of Career Breaks on Women

Nicole Standen
Gainplan-Linked-in-(7)

Reframing Time Away as a Strategic Life Decision For many women, career breaks aren’t a matter of “if,” but “when.” Whether stepping away to raise children, care for aging parents, or simply recalibrate priorities, these pauses are often deeply intentional. Yet, while the personal value is undeniable, the financial ripple…

Categories: Education, Industry Ideas