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Articles by Steve Pollock
3rd Quarter 2026 – Economic and Market Update
AN ECONOMIC AND MARKET UPDATE Q3 2026 / April 1 – June 30, 2026 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY If the first quarter of 2026 was about shock, the second was about relief. The Iran conflict that upended markets in late February – closing the Strait of Hormuz, driving crude oil to a 46-month high of $112.84 on April 7th gave way, on June 17th, to an interim agreement that reopened the Strait and let oil, gold, and a fair amount of investor anxiety come back down to earth.
Hybrid Long-Term Care: Coverage That Isn’t Wasted + Tax-Smart Way to Fund It
Disclosure This material is for general information only and is not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. There is no assurance the views or strategies discussed are suitable for all investors or will yield positive outcomes. Investing involves risks including possible loss of principal. Any company names noted herein are for educational purposes only.
American Teens Aren’t Working Summer Jobs Like They Used To
Disclosure This material is for general information only and is not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. There is no assurance the views or strategies discussed are suitable for all investors or will yield positive outcomes. Investing involves risks including possible loss of principal. Any company names noted herein are for educational purposes only.
America at 250: A Birthday Worth Sitting With for a Moment
Disclosure This material is for general information only and is not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. There is no assurance the views or strategies discussed are suitable for all investors or will yield positive outcomes. Investing involves risks including possible loss of principal. Any company names noted herein are for educational purposes only.
President’s Note for July 2026
Dear Friends, On July 16, Japan Society will host one of our signature events of the year — the 16th Annual Innovation Awards Symposium at Stanford University. You need to be there! (Before reading any further, sign up here.) This is one of my favorite days on the calendar, and this year’s program is shaping up to be one of our best yet.
Five Breakthrough Japanese Startups Selected for the 2026 Japan–U.S. Innovation Awards Innovation Showcase
Japan-U.S. Innovation Awards Symposium 2026 SAN FRANCISCO, CA, UNITED STATES, June 17, 2026 / EINPresswire.com/ -- Japan Society of Northern California today announced five Japanese startups selected for the 2026 Innovation Showcase, chosen from a highly competitive field of 50 nominated companies representing some of Japan’s most promising emerging technologies. The 2026 Innovation Showcase honorees are: • HACARUS (Artificial Intelligence) • I Peace, Inc.
It’s Now More Common To Have A Baby In Your Thirties Than In Your Twenties
Tax and Wealth Management Striving to Meet Your Financial Goals Investment advice offered through Merit Financial Group, LLC an SEC Registered Investment Advisor. Tax related services offered through Reason Tax Group, LLC. Steven W. Pollock CA Insurance Lic# OE98073, Sean P. Storck CA Insurance Lic# OF25995.
2nd Quarter 2026 – Economic and Market Update
Economic & Market Update 41 minutes ago AN ECONOMIC AND MARKET UPDATE Q2 2026 / January 1 – March 31, 2026 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The S&P 500 declined 4.3% in Q1 2026, its worst quarter since Q3 2022, as the Iran conflict drove oil prices above $100 per barrel and reignited inflation concerns that had been fading for much of 2025.
President’s Note for May 2026
Dear Friends, It’s Golden Week in Japan. Golden Week is a very popular string of holidays from April 29 to May 6, starting with Showa Day (the birthday of the Showa Emperor) and ending with Children’s Day, that gives people an opportunity to celebrate a range of significant events. Here in San Francisco, May 1 also marks a milestone for Japan Society. Larry Greenwood will be stepping down as Board Chair after a decade of outstanding leadership.
Robot Umps, Cap Taps, and the New Game Within the Game
By Team Reason | Reason Financial & Tax If you’ve watched a baseball game this season you’ve noticed something new. A batter freezes on a called third strike, pauses for a beat, then reaches up and taps his helmet. The stadium screen flashes an animated pitch trajectory. The crowd holds its breath. And then: ball three. Welcome to the Automated Ball-Strike Challenge System, or as everyone in our office is calling it, the robot ump. The idea is simple.
When Does Refinancing Actually Make Sense? A 2026 Reality Check
If you locked in a mortgage at 7% or higher in 2023 or 2024, you’ve probably been watching rates with one eye open for a while now. Thirty-year fixed rates have settled into the low 6% range. Freddie Mac’s weekly average hit 6.23% as of April 23, 2026, down from 6.30% the prior week. That’s not a 3% pandemic-era rate, but it is meaningfully lower than what many recent buyers are paying. Rates have dropped.
President’s Note for April 2026
Dear Friends, April is one of my favorite times of year in Japan – the sakura are so spectacular that I don’t even mind the crowds of people out enjoying them. The weather is turning warmer, there is a sense of renewal and the blossoms make everything feel beautiful.
Getting the Most Out of a Professional Development Day: A PMI Kentuckiana Success Story
- March 20, 2026 Career Development The 2025 Professional Development Day (PDD) at the Project Management Institute Kentuckiana chapter was an outstanding success, achieving record attendance, broad industry representation, and positive feedback. The event attracted a diverse audience from multiple industries, and attendees represented the makeup of KIPMI membership.
Trump Accounts Under IRC §530A: A Guide to What They Are, How to Elect Them, and What Happens Next
Back Reason Financial 47 minutes ago Executive Summary Trump Accounts (IRC §530A) are a new federal, tax-advantaged investment account for children, structured as a special kind of traditional IRA that is owned by the child but managed by an authorized adult while the child is a minor. They are not a social media platform or consumer subscription service.
How Valentines Day is like Tax Day
Reason Financial 48 minutes ago ROSES ARE RED, TAXES ARE DUE: HOW VALENTINE’s DAY IS BASICALLY APRIL 15th IN DISGUISE At first glance, Valentine’s Day and the tax deadline seem like opposites. One promises romance, chocolates, and candlelit dinners. The other delivers receipts, spreadsheets, and mild panic. But look a little closer, and you’ll realize they have more in common than we’d like to admit. Both arrive with a firm date circled on the calendar. Both involve pressure.
1st Quarter 2026 - Economic and Market Update
Economic & Market Update 8 minutes ago AN ECONOMICANDMARKETUPDATE February 2026 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 2025 ended a third straight of positive domestic equity returns. Introducing our Chief Investment Officer Brian Andrew. Trump Accounts are around the corner. Check out https://trumpaccounts.gov/ for how to make an election to open an account. This was a year where the various moving parts all came together better than expected.
2026 Market Outlook
Back Reason Financial 38 minutes ago The following 2026 Market Outlook is authored by Brian Andrew, Chief Investment Officer at Merit Financial Group, LLC, an SEC registered investment adviser. Mr. Andrew, formerly Executive Vice President at Johnson Financial Group, oversees Merit’s investment department and leads asset allocation decision-making for client portfolios. As we expand our content offerings this year, we’re excited to share more insights from our investment team.
President's Note For January 2026 — Japan Society Of Northern California
Dear Friends, Happy New Year! I hope 2026 is off to a wonderful start for you. In Japan, the New Year (oshogatsu) is a time filled many meaningful traditions—hatsumode (the first shrine visit of the year), osechi ryori (spectacular traditional New Year’s foods—which, to be honest, look better than they taste), otoshidama (money in special envelopes given to children in the family), nengajo (New Year’s cards delivered on January 1), and many more. What is your favorite Japanese New Year tradition?
President's Note For December 2025 — Japan Society Of Northern California
Dear Friends, As we reflect on the past year, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to all of you for your generous support and enthusiastic participation in Japan Society of Northern California’s programs. Thanks to you, this has been another busy, inspiring, and deeply rewarding year for our community. This year was especially meaningful as 2025 marked a huge milestone for JSNC—our 120th anniversary since our founding in 1905.
CalSavers Requirements - Fully Effective 12/31/2025
Reason Financial 53 minutes ago CalSavers Requirements California now requires all employers with at least one employee to offer a retirement savings plan. This mandate is fully phased in by December 31, 2025. Below is a summary of next steps: Who Must Comply by 12/31/25?
Reason Tax + Michael R. Boulger, CPA
Reason Financial 3 years ago There are some new faces at Reason Financial! In August we merged with Michael R. Boulger, CPA, an accounting, tax, and planning firm we have worked with closely for the last 12 years. The opportunity to add experienced and knowledgeable tax professionals to the Reason Financial & Tax brain trust was something we could not pass on.
2023 Predictions
Tax and Wealth Management Striving to Meet Your Financial Goals Investment advice offered through Merit Financial Group, LLC an SEC Registered Investment Advisor. Tax related services offered through Reason Tax Group, LLC. Steven W. Pollock CA Insurance Lic# OE98073, Sean P. Storck CA Insurance Lic# OF25995.
Income in retirement: How much will you have to spend?
Back Reason Financial 2 years ago When you think about income in retirement, there are a number of sources you might be able to use. When and how you use these different income streams can have a big impact on your retirement budget; they’re a key part of a holistic retirement plan. Let’s go over some of the most common sources of income in retirement. Social Security Social Security is designed to supplement your income in retirement.
Reminder to File Your 1099s
As we wrap up the year and prepare to hit the ground running, here is a reminder of how, when and if you need to file Forms 1099-NEC and 1099-MISC. The following general guidelines are meant to assist you in either preparing the required information returns yourself or to help you gather the appropriate information so that we may prepare the forms on your behalf. This information serves as an overview and does not detail all of the related filing requirements.
California Special Extension Notice
Tax Planning and Preparation 2 years ago This email applies only to California residents and businesses, except for those residing in the following counties: Imperial, Kern, Lassen, Modoc, Plumas, Shasta and Sierra. Dear Clients: As many of you are probably now aware, most of California has been deemed a disaster zone because of the recent storms, except for those counties listed above.
Important Year End Retirement Plan Deadlines
Deadline to Contribute to 401(k) and Other Defined Contribution Plans December 31, 2024 Employee contributions to 401(k) plans (and other plans that involve salary reductions or elective deferrals) must be made by the end of the year. For 2024, the limit is $23,000 or 100% of your compensation, whichever is less. If your plan allows, participants aged 50 or over may contribute an additional $7,500, totaling up to $30,500. Note that your particular plan may have specific limits.
Personal Use of Corporate Automobile
Back Reason Financial 2 years ago Personal Use of Corporate Automobile Download your 2024 Personal Use of Auto Information Sheet. Based on current tax laws, an employee’s personal use of a corporate provided vehicle (PUA) is considered to be a taxable fringe benefit. The following summarizes these rules: A corporation is required to treat the personal use of an employer provided vehicle as taxable compensation to the employee, subject to payroll taxes and withholding.
Reason Financial and Tax
Back Reason Financial 2 years ago Great Question – Let Ask AI When we asked AI if they are coming for us this is how they responded: If you’re asking whether AI will replace jobs or disrupt industries, it’s important to note that AI has the potential to both create and replace jobs, depending on the industry and specific roles. Some jobs may be automated, while others might be enhanced or transformed by AI technologies.
AN ECONOMIC AND MARKET UPDATE - JULY 2023
Reason Financial 2 years ago EXECUTIVE SUMMARY American Economy: a surprisingly robust start to 2023. Pandemic cash is running out and student loan forbearance is coming to an end. Short-term savings and emergency fund alternatives abound; now is a good time to look at how you are holding your money and whether better yielding alternatives are appropriate. The U.S. economy is proving very resilient. The outlook at the start of the year was for a recession at some point in the second half of 2023.
SECURE Act 2.0 - Top 10 Provisions
Back Reason Financial 3 years ago The SECURE ACT 2.0, or the Setting Every Community Up for Retirement Enhancement Act 2.0, was recently signed into law and brings with it several important changes that may affect your retirement planning. If you are a small business owner or an individual saving for retirement, it is important to understand these changes and how they may impact your financial planning. Click here for a printable pdf of the summary below. Read more from Reason Financial
How important is a 20% down payment?
Back Reason Financial 2 years ago When it comes to putting a down payment on a home, the 20% rule may be less important than your personal budget. Ultimately, your ongoing monthly mortgage payments are going to have a much bigger impact on your finances than your initial down payment, so as you think about how much to save and put down, it’s important to keep the different moving pieces in mind. Where did 20% come from?
California Business Owners - Statement of Information Filing
Back Reason Financial 2 years ago California law requires all corporations, limited liability companies (LLC) and common interest development associations to update the records of the California Secretary of State based on the year of registration by filing a Statement of Information (SOI). All entities are required to complete the SOI within the first 90 days of filing the Articles of Incorporation.
April 2023 – Economic and Market Update - Reason Financial and Tax
Economic & Market Update April 2023 – Economic and Market Update 2 years ago EXECUTIVE SUMMARY This year is better than last year so far, especially for fixed income. We are maintaining our focus on shorter duration due to a sustained inverted yield curve. Inflation continues to ease. The costs of housing will likely take longer to correct than hoped for, with most loans being at very low interest rates obtained during the COVID pandemic.
Navigating the Tax Galaxy: Our Recent Journey at Super Seminar 2023
Reason Financial 2 years ago We recently had the pleasure of attending Super Seminar 2023. With over 40 years of history under the guidance of the California Society of Enrolled Agents (CSEA), Super Seminar sets the standard as a beacon for professional development. Attendance at this event affords participants a wealth of knowledge, tools, and resources that foster growth in tax practice and ensures they remain current with the latest tax laws and amendments.
Marriage Checklist
Reason Financial 2 years ago Whether you’re already engaged or just starting to discuss it, marriage can be a financial decision as well as a romantic one. Thinking through some of the bigger questions early on can help set you up for success long beyond the wedding. After all, the goal is alignment and cohesion in all areas of married life, including your finances. This checklist can help you and your partner get on the same page with both big and little decisions.
Health Insurance Premiums Paid for S-Corporation Shareholders
Reason Financial 2 years ago Health Insurance Premiums Paid for S-Corporation Shareholders Download: Health Insurance Premiums Paid for S-Corporation Shareholders. To comply with the Internal Revenue Service regulations regarding health insurance provided to an employee who owns a 2% or greater interest in an S-Corporation (a “2% shareholder-employee”), the health insurance premiums for the 2% shareholder-employee must be reported on the shareholder’s Form W-2.
Take Me Out to the Ballgame: Our Reason for the Love of Baseball
Reason Financial 12 months ago As an office teeming with baseball enthusiasts, the appeal of heading out to the ballpark is a universal sentiment here. Whether you’re a fan of the Padres, Dodgers, Cubs, Giants, Yankees, Twins, or Red Sox, like those of us at Team Reason, there’s no denying the joy of experiencing a game live. But what makes baseball so compelling, particularly for those of us in the financial and tax profession? Glad you asked.
Waymo and teamLab to Receive 2025 SunBridge John Thomas Emerging Leader Awards
Waymo and teamLab to Receive 2025 SunBridge John Thomas Emerging Leader Awards 2025 Japan-U.S. Innovation Awards Honorees to be Recognized at Japan–U.S. Innovation Awards Symposium at Stanford University SAN FRANCISCO, CA, UNITED STATES, July 7, 2025 /EINPresswire.com/ -- The Japan–U.S. Innovation Awards Program announced today that Waymo (USA) and teamLab (Japan) have been selected as the 2025 recipients of the SunBridge John Thomas Emerging Leader Award.
Five Japanese Startups to Be Featured in 2025 Innovation Showcase
Five Japanese Startups to Be Featured in 2025 Innovation Showcase 2025 Japan - U.S. Innovation Awards Honorees to Present at Japan–U.S. Innovation Awards Symposium at Stanford University SAN FRANCISCO, CA, UNITED STATES, June 30, 2025 /EINPresswire.com/ -- U.S. Innovation Awards Program announced today the five Japanese startup companies selected for the 2025 Innovation Showcase.
President's Greeting for January 2025
Dear Friends, Happy New Year!! Last year was a great year for Japan Society (see some of our program highlights below) – thank you for all of your support! I’m confident that 2025 is going to be even better since it is a huge milestone year for us. This year marks the 120th anniversary of the founding of Japan Society of Northern California. Read more about Japan Society’s early history here. We have a lot of exciting events planned in celebration of our anniversary.
President's Note for August 2024
Hello Friends! I hope you all are having a great summer. I personally enjoyed watching the Paris Olympics over the last two weeks … although it reminded me again what a shame it was that Covid interfered with the Tokyo Olympics. The 2020/21 Olympics SHOULD have been such a wonderful opportunity for Tokyo to bask in worldwide attention about its unique and fascinating places, traditions and people.
President's Note for May 2024
Hi Friends, I can hardly believe that we’re already in Golden Week – it seems like 2024 has been flying by! April was a particularly busy month at Japan Society, starting with our Annual General Members Meeting.
President's Note for February 2024
Dear Friends, It’s a VERY rainy President’s Day Weekend here in the Bay Area, but I understand that Tokyo has had a couple of recent snowfalls. That reminded me of a spectacular snowstorm a few years ago when I was living in Tokyo. It started slowly, with big flakes drifting gently down. Unlike most other Tokyo snows, the snow started coming faster and faster, making visibility difficult. Within a few hours, the airports were closed and traffic had slowed to a crawl.
President's Note for January 2024
Dear Friends, Happy New Year! I hope everybody had a wonderful お正月 (oshogatsu/New Year) and that 2024 is off to a great start. I’m reminded of the wonderful hatsumode tradition in Japan – the first visit to the shrine in the New Year when you give thanks for the previous year and ask for blessings for the coming year (and get your fortune). I’m very thankful for having had a busy and successful 2023 (maybe our busiest year ever?) thanks to your support.
President’s Note for December 2023
Dear Friends, I hope that you are enjoying a wonderful holiday season! Thank you so much for your interest and support for Japan Society’s activities over the last 12 months. This has been a great (and very busy!) year for the Japan Society. As my first full year as president, it has also been a very gratifying year, with a record number of programs, some very successful signature events (Innovation Awards, Healthcare Conference, and Gala), and strong support from our members.
U.S.-Japan Healthcare Connection Japan Week 2023
I’ve now been back from Japan for about 5 days, and, in spite of a lingering case of jetlag or conference hangover (or both), I’m feeling both relieved and excited about the success of this year’s Healthcare Conference put on by JSNC. The theme of this year’s conference was “The Future of AI and Robotics in Healthcare.” Like other areas of the economy, healthcare has been pursuing the promise of AI (and wrestling with the challenges) for several years.
President’s Note for September 2023
Hello Friends! It’s the end of September, and I’m just back from Japan where we had a very successful Japan Healthcare Week. The theme of this year’s US-Japan conference was “The Future of AI and Robotics in Healthcare” and we had two major events, one in Nagoya and another in Tokyo, as well as a full slate of dinner, breakfast and networking events.
Medicaid Managed Care, Dental And The Future Of Health Equity
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is launching a new pilot in 8 states focused on achieving health equity and lowering overall health care costs. While a state’s Medicaid program model has a direct and significant effect on its ability to provide high-quality care and maintain costs, traditional health care economic models are not set up to meet all our increasing needs and expectations.
President’s Note for July 2023
One of my first encounters with Japan Society was as an attendee at the Innovation Awards program more than 10 years ago. At the time, I was advising Japanese companies about how to do business in the US marketplace.
Marin Voice: Oscars on-stage assault changes audience-performer relationship forever
The Academy Awards will now stand forever as the place where one member struck another onstage. This is not typically an issue – stage fights go back beyond William Shakespeare’s time. However, the act of an audience member, like Will Smith, interrupting a live event by ascending to the stage from his seat to assault a performer, like Chris Rock, is a major violation of public norms.
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