Investments articles
When Fireworks Aren’t Fun
Taking proactive steps with your estate plan can diffuse tensions among beneficiaries.
Maximizing Profits and Tax Efficiency
Exploring the Power of a Deferred Sales Trust for Financial Flexibility
AI: The Next Revolution?
Examining the Impact and Implications of Artificial Intelligence on Markets and Beyond
Getting Banks Back on Track
Understanding Recent Bank Failures and How They Compare to 2008
Key Provisions of the SECURE Act 2.0
The new law expands savings opportunities and provides a new option for unused 529 plan balances.
Real Estate Trends Amid Pandemic Recovery
Supply is high in Oklahoma, but buyers face market fears, inflation, and high mortgage rates.
The Time for Gifting
Making gifts to family and charity doesn’t have to be a year-end chore.
Off to a Good Start
Three Ways to Gift Money to Children and Grandchildren
Is Cash Still Trash?
With the Fed’s rate hikes and checking and savings yields low, it might pay to move your money from your bank.
An End to the Drama
As the curtain falls on a turbulent 2022, marked by inflation, fear, and confusion, what can we expect from 2023?
Roth IRA Conversions
This year marks the Roth IRA’s 25th anniversary. It’s a popular tool for many retirement savers. Before you convert your accounts into a Roth IRA, make sure it’s the right choice for you.
Finding a Cure for Inflation
With lingering high inflation, interest rates on the rise, and many Americans feeling the strain on their budgets, what will it take to get the economy back to normal?
U.S. stock market forecast ahead of the 2022 midterm elections
U.S. midterm election years have generally been the weakest for the stock market in a presidential term. Will history forecast how the upcoming elections affect the U.S. stock markets?
SECURE Act 2.0
Congress is considering another bipartisan retirement bill called the Securing a Strong Retirement Act (SECURE Act 2.0). If it passes, here are two proposed changes that will primarily affect retirees and those approaching retirement.
The Fed’s War on Inflation
Is an economic “soft landing” possible with historically high inflation?
Finding Peace With Your Possessions
You love your things – but how do your heirs feel about them?
Is There a Pilot on Board?
Choosing your successor trustee is a lot like choosing a co-pilot – be careful who you choose to handle your assets after your death.
Knowledge Is Power
Professional guidance can pay dividends when it comes to examining your oil and gas assets.
What Is ‘Normal’ Now?
We look at inflation, the market, and the economy in 2021 to see if 2022 will be an equally unusual year.
New Features for TCO Clients
TCO is pleased to share some exciting new features for our clients, which should help make filing your tax returns easier than ever.
Understanding Your 1099 Form
Have you ever wondered what the difference is between covered and noncovered sales on your TCO 1099-B form? We break down the differences.
Taking Stock of Big Tech
Big Tech has enjoyed big gains during the pandemic, but how long can its dominance last?
Fleeting or Forever?
It’s the word dominating headlines and on most people’s minds. Is inflation here to stay, or will it ease as the pandemic restrictions end?
Bitcoin Basics
Bitcoin has been described as ‘digital gold.’ But what exactly is it?
One For the History Books
With more free time in 2020, Nick dived into the U.S. history. Check out his favorite non-fiction books.
Through Thick And Thin
2020 was without a doubt an interesting year. Despite all the challenges, the economy rebounded sharply. What does the future have in store for 2021?
One Hundred Years Later – Dispatches From Route 66
Are you suffering from Presidential Election Fatigue? Let’s take a look at the 1920 U.S. Election for some healthy historical perspective.
2021 Retirement Plan Contribution Limits
Learn how much you can contribute in 2021 toward your retirement.
More Confidence, Less Cash – Dispatches From Route 66
What will it take to get us back on the horse and reignite the U.S. economy?
A Leader’s Legacy – Saying Farewell to Tom Wilkins
Recently, Thomas W. Wilkins retired as CEO of Trust Company of Oklahoma after 30 years serving our clients. He will remain as Chairman of our Board of Directors and the values he has instilled in all of us are his strongest legacy.
It Takes a Team – The Recipe for Successful Estate Planning
Couples get better investment results when both spouses discuss their views with their financial professionals.
Disconnected and Detached – Stock Market v. Economic Reality
A comprehensive overview of the stock market in 2020.
To Infinity and Beyond – Dispatches From Route 66
It’s an Apple-and-Tesla new world. Let’s talk about paradigm shift.
The Trend Is Your Friend
Investment management in the time of COVID-19, government interference, and low interest rates. Keep an eye on the trends.
Trust Company of Oklahoma Promotes Jim Arens to Chief Executive Officer, Michael Hopper to Chief Operating Officer
Tulsa World, July 26, 2020
James F. Arens II, CFA is Trust Company of Oklahoma’s new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Michael Hopper, CFP®, CTFA its Chief Operating Officer (COO). Thomas W. Wilkins is retiring as CEO after thirty years with the Tulsa-headquartered firm. Tom will continue to serve on the company’s Board of Directors.
James F. Arens, II
Jim joined Trust Company of Oklahoma (TCO) in 1997. For 12 years, he served as the company’s Chief Investment Officer and became President in 2019. Jim is also a member of TCO’s Board of Directors. He earned a Bachelor’s in Finance and Accounting from Southern Methodist University and an MBA from the University of Texas at Austin. Jim holds the Chartered Financial Analyst designation, is past president of the CFA Society of Oklahoma and is active in the CFA Institute.
Jim serves on Tulsa’s Gilcrease Museum National Board, the Asbury United Methodist Church Administrative Council and as Chairman of the University of Tulsa Student Investment Fund Board. He also serves on the investment committees for Holland Hall and the University of Texas MBA Student Investment Fund. Additionally, he is a member of the Young Presidents Organization (YPO) in Tulsa.
“Jim has demonstrated dedication to our clients and to the company for over two decades. His experience as Chief Investment Officer at TCO, along with his management skills, are two of the many reasons why our company is in great hands,” stated Thomas W. Wilkins. “I can’t wait to see TCO continue to grow under Jim’s leadership,” he added.
Michael Hopper
Michael has been with TCO since 2013. He is an Executive Vice President, a member of the Board of Directors, and Manager of the Agency Division. Michael serves individuals, families and businesses with trust management, retirement planning and financial advice. Prior to joining TCO, he accumulated nearly 10 years of insurance and investment experience.
Michael has a Bachelor’s of Business Administration in Economics from the University of Oklahoma. He is the current President of the Tulsa Estate Planning Forum. Michael is a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) professional and holds the Certified Trust and Financial Advisor designation.
About Trust Company of Oklahoma
Trust Company of Oklahoma is the oldest and largest independent trust company in the state, with locations in Tulsa and Oklahoma City. Founded in 1981, the firm provides asset management and unbiased financial advice for individuals, families, and other organizations in Oklahoma and throughout the country. TCO currently manages approximately $4.5 billion in client assets.
The Price of Greatness – Dispatches From Route 66
Philip Mock reviews TV series about Michael Jordan.
The Winding Road to Recovery
2020: Reasons to stay optimistic about the economy while working towards the end of the pandemic.
Government Funds Breakthrough Vaccine Research
Learn more about the federal agencies funding development of the COVID-19 vaccine.
Collective Healing Process – Dispatches From Route 66
The current pandemic created tough challenges for our community. And much like the OKC Bombing 25 years ago, we are collectively supporting each other. Read more.
Subzero Oil Prices and the Storage Problem
U.S. crude sold at -$37.63 a barrel on Monday, a historic drop below zero. How did we get to this point in the oil and gas industry?
Don’t Touch Your Portfolio (Or Your Face!) – Dispatches From Route 66
Investment Dos and Don’ts During Recession.
CARES Act Signed by President Trump Impacts Retirement Plans
Historic financial stimulus bill includes provisions that impact retirement plans and how businesses can support employees affected by the COVID-19 outbreak.
Outlast The Storm
You can’t control the stock markets nor stop COVID-19. Managing investments in the midst of the pandemic.
The End of the Stretch IRA
The SECURE Act eliminated a popular feature, the “Stretch IRA.” Learn how this will impact your estate planning and charitable contributions.
Tax Day Delayed To July 15
As COVID-19 grips the nation, the IRS delayed the deadline to file and pay federal income taxes. Read more.
Our Response To COVID-19
Our offices are open and our services continue uninterrupted. Read more.
Don’t Let Fear Paralyze You
In times of uncertainty with stock market and health concerns, it is easy to let fear paralyze us. Read Lesa Creveling’s article.
Buying or Renting? – Dispatches From Route 66
We are often asked about the trade-offs between buying and renting a home. In this article, Nick Gallus offers some general advice and observations to help you navigate this decision.
How the SECURE Act Affects Your Retirement Plan
Learn how the SECURE Act provisions for 401(k) plans may affect your retirement plan and the retirement of your employees.
All Bets on the Underdog – Dispatches From Route 66
If you are considering taking a vacation in 2020, book it sooner rather than later. Learn more.
Phone Scam Alert
Do not fall for the Suspended Social Security Number scam.
Off the Beaten Path: Hidden Gems in the US – Dispatches From Route 66
If you are considering taking a vacation in 2020, book it sooner rather than later. Learn more.
A Beneficial New Year’s Resolution
Some resolutions are hard to accomplish. This one is easy – but very important, especially with the passage of the SECURE Act.
SECURE Act Significantly Impacts Your Retirement Planning
If you have an IRA heading into 2020, here’s what you need to know about the new tax law and how it may impact your retirement and estate planning.
Doing the Limbo
Our Chief Investment Officer looks back at 2019. Stock returns were very strong, but the bond market forced investors to play the limbo game.
Final Edition – Bob’s Market Observations
For your sake, I have decided to wrap up with a single reminder I regularly direct at myself.
Be a Responsible Property Owner: Properly Store Your Documents
While record-keeping can be a tedious task, it’s essential to being a responsible property owner.
It’s Cyber Monday for Cyber Criminals, Too
While we are online looking for the best deals, cyber criminals are looking for opportunities to steal our sensitive information. Learn how to protect yourself.
Passing Down the Family History – Bob’s Market Observations
It’s not just transferring material wealth to our children and grandchildren that we should focus on, but our own personal histories. Read more.
A Christmas Gift to Your Future Self
Make your end-of-year bonus increase your retirement readiness. Take a look at how much you can contribute in 2020 towards your retirement plan.
Understand Proposed IRA Changes Before Making Estate Planning Decisions
Changes may be on the horizon for legislation regarding Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs). Understanding and reviewing the proposed bills is prudent before making estate planning decisions.
Financial Parenting: Teaching Your Kids Financial Responsibility – Bob’s Market Observations
The financial beliefs we pass down to our children can have a significant effect on their financial outcomes. Read more.
Chill Before Serving to Avoid Family Litigation
Litigation can be destructive to families, both financially and emotionally. Learn how families can avoid the courts to settle their differences.
What A Waste – Bob’s Market Observations
Food waste is a serious environmental problem in the United States and other parts of the world. Fortunately, there are efforts along the chain from the farm to the consumer to help reduce waste.
Bob McCormick Hits the Open Road
Our colleague is taking an early retirement at the end of the year. Although we don’t normally announce retirements in this publication, it is important to note a few of Bob’s lasting impacts on us, his colleagues.
Where There’s a Will…
What do Aretha Franklin, President Abraham Lincoln and Prince have in common? Find out.
Upside Down
Making Sense of the Recent Yield Curve
What Does Your Family Look Like?
Family structures have become more complex over the last few decades. Most households are now the result of blended families with working moms, adopted kids, second marriages, and the list goes on. Your estate plan needs to be customized for your specific situation.
IRA: Why, When & How Often?
Here we share some important guidance on when to withdraw funds from your IRA. While withdrawal may seem like an easy task, you may find yourself paying more in taxes than necessary.
The Risk Of Negative Interest Rates In The U.S. – Bob’s Market Observations
Understand the risk of negative interest rates in the U.S.
Philip Mock Earn CFA® Designation
TCO proudly announces that senior vice president Philip D. Mock earned the Chartered Financial Analyst designation.
The Fiduciary Rule: What It Means For You
We have served our clients with a fiduciary duty since our founding in 1981.
Two Rules To Live By – Bob’s Market Observations
Life’s better when you follow those two simple principles.
Alzheimer’s And Dementia Patients Are Easy Prey For Scammers
Avoid being a victim of financial exploitation.
Don’t Be A Silo
Individual trustees do not need to face all the challenges alone.
ViewPoint – Why Clients Do Business With Us
I have many reason to be proud of who we are and the services we offer
The New Tax Law & the Economics of Divorce
Understand the new tax law before untying the knot
Trying Not To Be a Dodo
Changing Political Climate Threatens Fiscal Conservative Species
Is Fiscal Discipline Extinct? – Bob’s Market Observations
Does anyone care about government spending and debt? And who will pay the bill?
How Health Problems Become Wealth Problems
Effective retirement planning involves being healthy. Learn how to protect your wealth and your health after you retire.
Collecting Spousal Social Security Benefits
Social Security benefits are an important component to retirement planning. Here’s what you need to know about receiving Social Security on your spouse.
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