As we enter the second quarter of the year, April is a great time to review your retirement savings strategy and ensure you’re making the most of your contributions. Whether you are actively working toward retirement or already planning your income strategy for the future, making informed decisions now can significantly impact your financial success.
With fluctuating market conditions and evolving financial goals, revisiting your retirement accounts—including 401(k)s, IRAs, and other tax-advantaged savings plans—can help you stay on track toward long-term financial security. Small adjustments today could contribute to substantial benefits down the road.
Why Adjusting Retirement Contributions Matters
Many individuals set their retirement contributions at the beginning of the year and forget to revisit them. However, changes in income, tax laws, and employer benefits can influence the effectiveness of your savings strategy. By reviewing your contributions in April, you can assess whether you’re taking full advantage of employer matching programs, tax-efficient savings options, and market opportunities.
If you have received a salary increase or bonus, consider allocating a portion toward your retirement savings. In 2025, you can contribute up to $23,500 to a 401(k), with a $7,500 catch-up for those 50 and older, totaling $30,500. If you’re between 60 and 63 years old, you may be eligible for an enhanced catch-up of $11,250, bringing the total to $34,750.
Employer-sponsored plans, like 401(k)s, often offer matching contributions. Therefore, increasing your contributions can lead to additional funds from your employer—essentially free money that boosts your long-term savings.
Making the Most of Tax-Advantaged Retirement Accounts
Retirement accounts such as 401(k)s, Traditional IRAs, and Roth IRAs offer tax benefits that can help grow your investments more efficiently. Depending on your income level and financial situation, you may benefit from contributing to a Roth IRA, which provides tax-free withdrawals during retirement, or a Traditional IRA, which may offer opportunities for tax deductions today.
In 2025, the IRA contribution limit is $7,000, with a $1,000 catch-up available for individuals 50 and older, bringing their limit to $8,000. Reviewing your contribution levels early ensures you are maximizing these tax-advantaged opportunities.
Adapting to Market Conditions and Financial Goals
Economic conditions and market fluctuations should be considered when evaluating your retirement savings strategy. If interest rates or inflation levels have changed, adjusting your asset allocation and contributions may help maintain the purchasing power of your retirement savings.
Long-term investing is about consistency and adaptability. If your risk tolerance or retirement timeline has shifted, now may be the time to review your investment mix. A well-diversified portfolio can help you withstand market volatility and support your long-term financial stability.
How We Can Help
As a valued client of Ballentine Capital Advisors, we are here to ensure your retirement strategy stays aligned with your financial objectives. Regularly reviewing your contributions, adjusting for market conditions, and maximizing available tax benefits are key steps in building financial security for the future.
If you haven’t evaluated your retirement contributions this year, now is a great time to check in and make any necessary adjustments. Whether you’re looking to increase savings, optimize your investment mix, or ensure you’re taking full advantage of employer benefits, we’re here to help.
If you have any questions or want to discuss potential adjustments, don’t hesitate to reach out. We appreciate the trust you place in us and look forward to continuing to support you on your financial journey.
Golf Tip of the Week
Short Iron Consistency: Why Your Backswing Might Be Holding You Back
If you’ve ever spent time on the practice range trying to perfect your short iron shots—only to end up frustrated by inconsistent contact or lack of spin—you’re not alone. Many amateur golfers try to fix these issues by tweaking their swing speed or hand position, but the real solution often lies earlier in the swing: the backswing.
According to golf instructor Michael Jacobs, one of the keys to solid short iron contact is creating a more vertical backswing path. This verticality helps the club descend into the ball at the right angle, promoting clean contact and better trajectory.
One common mistake among recreational golfers is using the same swing pattern for all clubs, from wedges to drivers. But short irons require a different approach. Tour pros like Justin Thomas and Collin Morikawa demonstrate this well. In their backswings, their lead arm (left arm for right-handed players) lines up closer to their collarbone rather than below the shoulder. This arm position keeps the club more in front of the body, helping maintain control and precision.
For practice, try using a simple drill: Start with a headcover tucked under your trail arm and purposely let it fall early in the backswing. This encourages proper arm positioning and helps prevent the club from getting stuck behind you.
Focusing on this early part of the swing may not make your swing feel faster, but it can lead to more consistent ball striking, better launch angles, and improved shot control with your short irons.
Golf Tip adapted from Golf Digest. Read the full article here: Hitting pure short irons, explained
Recipe of the Week
London Broil with Gribiche and Asparagus
Ingredients
For the steak:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 4 garlic cloves, crushed
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 2 lbs top round steak (½ to 1 inch thick)
For the gribiche sauce:
- 3 large eggs
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp white wine vinegar
- 1 garlic clove, finely grated
- Salt and pepper
- 1 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tbsp dried chives
- 1 tbsp chopped capers
- 6 finely chopped cornichons
For the asparagus:
- 2 lbs thin asparagus, ends trimmed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper
Instructions
- Marinate the Steak:
In a large resealable plastic bag, combine olive oil, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, lemon juice, a teaspoon of salt, and a teaspoon of pepper. Place the steak into the bag and seal it tightly. Move the steak around inside the bag to evenly coat with the marinade. Let it sit at room temperature for 1 hour, flipping halfway through. (You may also refrigerate overnight and let it return to room temperature before cooking.) - Prepare the Gribiche:
Bring a pot of water to a boil and gently place the eggs inside. Cook for 10 minutes, then transfer to cold water to cool. Peel and chop the eggs. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, mustard, vinegar, garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir in parsley, chives, capers, and cornichons. Fold in the chopped eggs. Let sit at room temperature or refrigerate until ready to serve (bring to room temp before using if chilled). - Cook the Steak:
Place a foil-lined baking sheet under the broiler to preheat. Remove the steak from the marinade, wiping off any garlic pieces, and place it on the hot baking sheet. Broil for 6–10 minutes, depending on thickness, until the internal temperature reads 120–125°F for medium-rare. Let the steak rest for 10 minutes before slicing. - Roast the Asparagus:
While the steak rests, add asparagus to the same baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and broil for about 3 minutes, until bright green and tender-crisp. - To Serve:
Place asparagus on plates, spoon some gribiche over the top, and add thinly sliced steak. Enjoy a well-rounded, flavorful meal that’s perfect for spring or any time of year.
Recipe Tip adapted from Food Network. Read the full article here: Sheet Pan London Broil with Asparagus Gribiche
Travel Tip of the Week
Top Destinations to Explore for a Memorable Summer 2025
Looking to make the most of your summer travel plans? With school breaks, extended daylight hours, and warmer temperatures in many regions, summer is one of the most popular seasons to explore new places. Whether you’re envisioning a peaceful river cruise through Europe, a scenic mountain escape, or a beach vacation with plenty of sunshine, the options are endless. From the Alps to South American slopes and the beaches of the Mediterranean, 2025 offers a wide variety of travel experiences that cater to every kind of adventurer. Inspired by expert recommendations and current travel trends, here’s a look at some of the top places to consider for an unforgettable summer getaway.
Experience the Serenity of St. Barts in the Offseason
If you’re dreaming of a tropical retreat with pristine beaches and fewer crowds, consider visiting St. Barts during the summer months. Although winter is traditionally the peak travel season, the island becomes more relaxed in the offseason, offering a calmer experience. You’ll find that popular restaurants are easier to access, and the roads—often narrow and winding—are less congested. For a stay that balances luxury with access to outdoor adventure, consider Le Barthélemy Hotel & Spa in Grand Cul-de-Sac. This location is ideal for exploring the coastline by Jet Ski or snorkeling in the clear, calm waters—keep an eye out for sea turtles while you’re there.
Explore the Charm of Corsica and Sardinia
Looking for a unique European summer destination? Corsica is gaining attention for its stunning combination of coastal views and mountainous landscapes. Recent increases in flights and ferry routes make this French island more accessible than ever. Just a short boat ride away, Sardinia offers equally impressive scenery with quiet beaches, turquoise waters, and small villages rich in cultural traditions. Spend your days discovering local artisans, from cheesemakers to traditional basket weavers. One day you could be enjoying French cuisine in a seaside bistro, and the next learning how to make handmade Italian pizza—a perfect Mediterranean pairing.
Recharge in Hawaii with a Wellness-Focused Escape
For those prioritizing health and relaxation, Hawaii offers a rejuvenating escape. On the peaceful island of Lanai, Sensei Lanai, a Four Seasons Resort, provides a wellness-centered retreat for adults. This tranquil property features a variety of wellness experiences including personalized consultations, spa therapies, and guided fitness sessions like yoga and meditation. Surrounded by lush greenery and dramatic landscapes, it’s the perfect destination to reset your mind and body.
Travel Tip adapted from Travel + Leisure. Read the full article here: 23 Best Summer Vacations Everyone Should Consider in 2025
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Ballentine Capital Advisors is a registered investment adviser. The advisory services of Ballentine Capital Advisors are not made available in any jurisdiction in which Ballentine Capital Advisors is not registered or is otherwise exempt from registration.
Please review Ballentine Capital Advisors Disclosure Brochure for a complete explanation of fees. Investing involves risks. Investments are not guaranteed and may lose value.
This material is prepared by Ballentine Capital Advisors for informational purposes only. It is not intended to serve as a substitute for personalized investment advice or as a recommendation or solicitation or any particular security, strategy, or investment product.
No representation is being made that any account will or is likely to achieve future profits or losses similar to those shown. You should not assume that investment decisions we make in the future will be profitable or equal the investment performance of the past. Past performance does not indicate future results.
