Continuing Education: My Top Financial Websites

One of the commitments I made when becoming a Certified Financial Planner™ was carrying out the four Es. Those Es stand for Education, Examination, Experience, and Ethics. When it comes to education that particular one is near and dear to my heart. I am passionate about learning and feel it is a lifelong commitment in all areas of life. Recently, someone asked me, ”Justin, how do you keep growing as a financial planner? What are the top financial websites you read and visit often?” So today I’m going to give you some insight on how I stay abreast in the financial world with my weekly reading list, which I consider one of the ways of continuing my education.

1. Readwrite.com

One of the first things I do each week is read a website called readwrite.com. It’s not a financial blog; rather it’s a marketing blog. Why on earth would that be one of my top choices? Well, as a business owner, marketing is key to growth. I am constantly marketing and looking for new ways to promote our firm (because we are the best in my opinion).

Many of my clients are business owners. They know that promoting their products and services is key to building a lasting business. So continuing my education begins with building my brand. In doing so, I learn ways to continue helping my customers achieve the same reality with their own.

2. Entrepreneur.com

Another great site I garner information from is entrepreneur.com. Their motto is, “Start, Run and Grow your business.” I often find it is chocked-full of insight and advice to keep companies moving in the right direction. I don’t always agree with everything I read on the site; however, I feel there’s a wealth of information to pick and choose from. I enjoy the profiles of entrepreneurs who have managed to successfully market themselves and their companies. Naturally, these success stories inspire me as I work toward accomplishing greatness of my own. So if you are a business owner then reading this magazine or website is a must.

3. Money.com

Money.com tops the list without a doubt. What kind of financial advisor would I be if I didn’t read this one! Dealing with managing money for people means always accumulating as much knowledge as possible on personal finances. This site is absolutely fantastic for financial tips. It offers a great combination of news on everything money-related. Whether it’s everyday tips, travel, or retirement you can find it on money.com.

Additionally, I thoroughly enjoy reading it because I have the opportunity to gain insight into what my peers are saying and doing, as well as the concepts they are using in their own businesses. I also subscribe to this magazine, which is actually one of my favorites to find in my mailbox. It’s a quick, easy read that I can get through on a Sunday afternoon in just a couple of hours.

4. Kiplinger.com

Another favorite of mine is kiplinger.com. It’s not necessarily geared toward the younger generation as much; however, since I work with so many baby boomers, I find the information is extremely beneficial. They are working on reaching out to Gen X, Y, Z’ers, too but it probably isn’t a top site for many in those generations. They’re a great resource for economic news. Also, a fun trademark to their website and magazine is that they actually make regular features out of questions from their readers.

5. The Economist

When it comes to dealing with macro and microeconomics, I choose The Economist hands down. Their take on politics is always intriguing, and the editorial additions are my favorites.

6. Investopedia.com

Investopedia is financial “gold” and not just because I’m a contributor. They have one of the best search engines for all things financial. It’s a great tool for investors and advisors alike.  I can get various ideas on what others in the industry are thinking and saying works for them.

7. Forbes.com

Last but not least is forbes.com. You were wondering where this one was, right? The magazine is especially famous for its lists, they are a premier publisher in the financial realm. Topics found on their site range from finances to politics. You can also find a few articles there by yours truly. It’s a great honor to be chosen to contribute alongside such an elite group of professionals. I enjoy the expertise imparted to me when reading articles written by peers.

So there you have it, my must-read list of financial websites and magazines. Contact me on Facebook, Twitter, or other social media if you think there’s one missing that I should check out!