FDS Newsletter: Second Quarter, 2026

by Financial Design Studio, Inc. / July 2, 2026

Each quarter, we share our most recent or most timely content to keep you informed . . . at your leisure. You shouldn’t have to stay up late searching for answers or tracking the latest financial changes—that’s our job. This quarterly newsletter is one more way we help our clients stay confident in their financial plan, without adding extra work to their plate.

Scroll to the bottom (or click here!) to download the full PDF that we mail to our clients.

A Note from Michelle:

“School is out for the summer! Many of you might not even notice what’s happening according to the school calendar because you or your kids graduated years ago. For you, a change of routine happens when there’s a holiday or trip you’ve made special plans for.

I smile sometimes when I end an email with “enjoy your weekend” to someone who’s retired. I imagine them laughing a little when they read that, thinking, “you don’t understand, every day can feel like the weekend in retirement!” I’ve asked some of you about this and that’s what you’ve told me!

But life is still full of transitions and change beyond retirement. We think of major changes in life like kids graduating, moving away, retiring, and gaining or losing a loved one…

We’ve recently made a change for our daughter’s education, realizing what she needs for high school. While change is very hard and even sad after many years of a routine, I strongly believe that growth happens in us, when we’re faced with a change. It doesn’t always mean the transition is an easy one.

But with a challenge comes the great potential for growth as a person. Old habits may change to better habits. New friends might bring out good qualities in us or encourage us to pursue desired hobbies or interests we never did. I encourage you to step forward with any transitions you’re facing with boldness and excitement for the potential of what might be ahead.

And, as always, I’d love to hear about anything you think of!”

— Michelle Smalenberger, CFP® and CEO