Wells Fargo Advisors Financial Network

Gary H. Costarella
Financial Advisor
Branch Manager
Chicago, IL (Lincoln Park)

Whether it's the demands of family and career or the noise from the financial press about the gyrations of the markets and the latest investment fad, today, more than ever, it's almost impossible for investors to stay focused on the Big Picture.

It's our goal to provide structure and perspective to the process of growing and preserving our clients' wealth.  It's our mission to focus on the Big Picture:  to help affluent individuals and their families achieve financial security and independence through the prudent, long-term growth of their savings and investments. 

We believe that we are well positioned to fulfill this mission:  we are an independent, service-oriented, financial advisory practice that draws upon the  resources and support of one of the nation's premier financial services firms. 

It's our opinion that financial success doesn't "just happen."  Nor should the process of investing be an end in itself.  Instead, success results from a dynamic, goal-oriented approach based on thorough planning, the application of sound principles and good old-fashioned common sense.
Calculators

Home Affordability

Estimate of the maximum amount of financing you can expect to get when you begin house hunting.

Mortgage Refinancing

Determine whether you should consider refinancing your mortgage.

Mortgage Acceleration

This calculator can help you determine how soon you can pay off your mortgage.

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Newsletters

Never Retire? Don't Count on It

In a recent survey, just 40% of wealthy individuals indicated they are totally confident they will have enough money for retirement. The other 60% said they will shun traditional retirement and work as long as possible. However, it could be dangerous to believe that a retirement income shortfall can be overcome by working past the traditional retirement age.

Favorable Dividend and Capital Gains Tax Rates Extended—for Now

The 2010 Tax Relief Act extended the 15% maximum tax rates on qualified dividends and long-term capital gains through December 31, 2012. But without further legislation, dividends will be taxed at ordinary income tax rates and capital gains tax rates will return to 20% (23.8% for investors in the two highest tax brackets) in 2013.

Exchange-Traded Funds: In a Class by Themselves

In 2010, the combined assets of the nation's ETFs topped more than $800 billion. ETFs are unique investments that share some similarities with mutual funds but trade like stocks. ETFs have some appealing characteristics, including trading flexibility, potentially lower expense ratios, tax efficiency, and diversification.

The Difference Between the Debt and the Deficit

The terms "debt" and "deficit" are often used interchangeably to describe the federal government's financial situation, yet they have significantly different meanings. This explanation of the budget deficit and the national debt may help readers understand the conversation.

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