Peapack Private Bank & Trust

The September 2025 Planning Quarterly explores four key topics shaping financial planning today: Trump Accounts as a new savings vehicle, estate planning strategies under the OBBBA, the Connelly ruling’s impact on closely held businesses, and Social Security claiming strategies for affluent retirees. Each article provides practical guidance to help you protect your wealth and plan with confidence.

Start your child’s future with a financial foundation designed to grow for decades. Trump Accounts combine a federal deposit, family contributions, and employer support—all compounding tax-deferred until adulthood. The September Planning Quarterly explains how they compare to 529 plans and Roth IRAs, and when they might be the right fit for your family.

Maximizing Social Security isn’t always about waiting until age 70. For affluent retirees, claiming earlier may enhance liquidity, reduce taxable withdrawals, and strengthen legacy planning—especially when coordinated with a spouse’s benefits. The September Planning Quarterly explains when early claiming may be a smarter choice and how it fits into a long-term wealth strategy.

A recent Supreme Court ruling, Connelly v. United States, changes how life insurance proceeds are treated in valuing closely held businesses for estate tax purposes. The September Planning Quarterly explains what this means for succession planning and why revisiting agreements with advisors is now critical.

Transfer more wealth, minimize taxes, and protect your legacy. With the OBBBA raising the estate tax exemption to $15 million, new planning opportunities have emerged—though state inheritance taxes still pose challenges. Our September Planning Quarterly outlines strategies to help keep your estate plan strong.

AI investment continues to fuel economic growth and corporate earnings, but questions around valuations, returns, and long-term risks remain. Our Third Quarter 2026 Investment Outlook examines AI's growing influence on the economy alongside the market trends and uncertainties investors should be watching.