OUR LATEST – INVESTMENTS

Marital Trusts: Protecting Your Legacy and Deferring Taxes

We discuss what a Marital Trust is, the features and functions of this specialized trust, and how it might benefit your family.

Tuning Out the Noise, Focusing on the Signal

To maximize the impact and tax efficiency of year-end charitable donations, consider these key tax strategies.
Whittney Stauffer Joins Friends of Finance

Fall 2025 Investment Perspectives

We discuss maximizing 2025 charitable donation tax deductions, changes to Oklahoma's trust laws, and family charitable mission statements.
Several $100 bills are rolled together and wrapped with a red ribbon, topped with a bow

Smarter Gifting for 2025: Key Tax Strategies for the End of the Year

To maximize the impact and tax efficiency of year-end charitable donations, consider these key tax strategies.

Quarterly Market Review — Q3 2025

Both U.S. and non-U.S. stocks posted strong returns during the quarter, with the S&P 500 having its best return for Q3 since 2020.
Whittney Stauffer Joins Friends of Finance

Summer 2025 Investment Perspectives

We discuss how to handle the recent and how to protect your financial plan in the event of a natural disaster.

Greater Control, Greater Retirement: The Three Account Buckets

To achieve flexibility in retirement, it’s not just about saving enough—it’s also about where you save.

Your 2025 Tax Roadmap: Navigating the One Big Beautiful Bill Act

Understanding the One Big Beautiful Bill Act is essential for optimizing your financial strategies, as many provisions start in 2025.

The Q2 2025 Review

The combination of rising debt and evolving trade policies created a complex economic landscape for the second quarter of 2025.
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Navigating Volatile Markets

Savvy investors can find calm in the rough waters by sticking to a proven portfolio diversification strategy with regular rebalancing.
Whittney Stauffer Joins Friends of Finance

April 2025 Investment Perspectives

We discuss how to handle the recent and how to protect your financial plan in the event of a natural disaster.
A magnifying glass is sitting on a background of cash, including a five-dollar bill and some change. The magnifying glass is showing four die spelling out "2025."

2024’s Surprises Shaping 2025

2023 was a turbulent year for investing, but many people's minds is what 2024 looks like. We take a look at what the future may hold.
Whittney Stauffer Joins Friends of Finance

January 2025 Investment Perspectives

We discuss the market in 2023 and look ahead to 2024, digital safety, and updated FDIC calculations for trust-owned bank accounts.
An older couple sitting in front of a wall of painted pottery shares a laugh. The man has paint on his nose.

Roth Conversions: Traversing the Path to a Tax-Free Retirement

We take a look at the new rules for FDIC insurance limits for bank deposits owned by trusts. The good news: It will be simpler to calculate.
A digital screen shows a green line and a blue line showing the ups and down of financial markets

Economic Anomalies

2023 was a turbulent year for investing, but many people's minds is what 2024 looks like. We take a look at what the future may hold.
An illustration shows an older couple with canes climbing steps made of dollar bills.

Roth Retirement Savings Strategies

We take a look at the new rules for FDIC insurance limits for bank deposits owned by trusts. The good news: It will be simpler to calculate.
Whittney Stauffer Joins Friends of Finance

October 2024 Investment Perspectives

We discuss the market in 2023 and look ahead to 2024, digital safety, and updated FDIC calculations for trust-owned bank accounts.
An edited image shows various types of transportation, including a road with semis, a train, a cargo ship, cargo containers, and an airplane flying overhead

Preventing Supply Chain Strain

2023 was a turbulent year for investing, but many people's minds is what 2024 looks like. We take a look at what the future may hold.
Whittney Stauffer Joins Friends of Finance

July 2024 Investment Perspectives

We discuss the market in 2023 and look ahead to 2024, digital safety, and updated FDIC calculations for trust-owned bank accounts.
Two oil derricks are silhouetted against an orange and yellow sunset

Leave a Rich Vein, Not a Legal Drain: Estate Planning for Oil & Gas Assets

We take a look at the new rules for FDIC insurance limits for bank deposits owned by trusts. The good news: It will be simpler to calculate.
Whittney Stauffer Joins Friends of Finance

April 2024 Investment Perspectives

We discuss the market in 2023 and look ahead to 2024, digital safety, and updated FDIC calculations for trust-owned bank accounts.
Cleaning supplies sit on a countertop

Solve a Puzzle and Make Your Spring Cleaning More Effective

Empower yourself against digital risks with practical tips to safeguard yourself and loved ones in today’s interconnected financial landscape.

Corporate Transparency Act: New Law Requires Many Companies to Register Owner Information

We take a look at the new rules for FDIC insurance limits for bank deposits owned by trusts. The good news: It will be simpler to calculate.
Image of a person using a laptop computer and a tablet with a stylus, with imagery including the letters AI coming out of the laptop and tablet

Revisiting Artificial Intelligence

2023 was a turbulent year for investing, but many people's minds is what 2024 looks like. We take a look at what the future may hold.
Whittney Stauffer Joins Friends of Finance

January 2024 Investment Perspectives

We discuss the market in 2023 and look ahead to 2024, digital safety, and updated FDIC calculations for trust-owned bank accounts.
A stack of 100 dollar bills are covered by chains and a padlock

FDIC Insurance: Navigating New Rules for Trust-Owned Bank Deposits in 2024

We take a look at the new rules for FDIC insurance limits for bank deposits owned by trusts. The good news: It will be simpler to calculate.
A person holding a credit card is making a telephone call

Safety in the Digital Age: Tips to Protect Against Scams and Identity Theft

Empower yourself against digital risks with practical tips to safeguard yourself and loved ones in today’s interconnected financial landscape.
2024 on top of glass showing stock market figures

A Welcome Return to Normalcy

2023 was a turbulent year for investing, but many people's minds is what 2024 looks like. We take a look at what the future may hold.
Whittney Stauffer Joins Friends of Finance

October 2023 Investment Perspectives

We discuss AI and its effects on the markets, TCO updates, deferred sales trusts, and how to avoid fireworks caused by your estate plan.

Using Qualified Charitable Distributions to Support Charities

Exploring the Power of a Deferred Sales Trust for Financial Flexibility

Business Health and Employee Financial Wellness

Financial wellness programs are a win-win for employers and employees. We break down why it's a smart move for businesses.

Rethinking Portfolio Diversification

S&P 500 Concentration and Tech Growth Have Changed the Landscape of Investing
Whittney Stauffer Joins Friends of Finance

July 2023 Investment Perspectives

We discuss AI and its effects on the markets, TCO updates, deferred sales trusts, and how to avoid fireworks caused by your estate plan.

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
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AI: The Next Revolution?

Examining the Impact and Implications of Artificial Intelligence on Markets and Beyond
Whittney Stauffer Joins Friends of Finance

April 2023 Investment Perspectives

We discuss the bank failures of early 2023 and how they compare to 2008, as well as key aspects of Secure Act 2.0 and real estate trends.
Silicon Valley Bank headquarters and branch.

Getting Banks Back on Track

Understanding Recent Bank Failures and How They Compare to 2008
U.S. capitol building as seen on the back of United States money

Key Provisions of the SECURE Act 2.0

The new law expands savings opportunities and provides a new option for unused 529 plan balances.
Overhead view of a neighborhood of houses facing a residential street with cars parked on it

Real Estate Trends Amid Pandemic Recovery

Supply is high in Oklahoma, but buyers face market fears, inflation, and high mortgage rates.
Whittney Stauffer Joins Friends of Finance

January 2023 Investment Perspectives

We discuss the economic outlook for 2023, whether cash is still trash, gifting to children & grandchildren, and why charitable giving doesn't have to be so stressful.

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?
Whittney Stauffer Joins Friends of Finance

October 2022 Investment Perspectives

We discuss how to rescue the economy, when to convert your traditional IRA to a Roth, and why DIY estate planning can be a bad idea.
The words Roth IRA in metallic silver lying on a wooden table with hundred dollar bills lying to the top and right side

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.
Dollar signs and arrows pointing up on top of an image of coins and a spreadsheet of numbers

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?
Whittney Stauffer Joins Friends of Finance

July 2022 Investment Perspectives

We discuss the impact of the midterm elections on the U.S. stock markets, how SECURE Act 2.0 may change retirement savings, and medicare premium increases.
Twenty dollars bills - close up and reflection of US paper money

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? 
Middle aged couple reading paper bills calculating pension using laptop at home.

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.
Whittney Stauffer Joins Friends of Finance

April 2022 Investment Perspectives

We discuss the Fed's response to inflation, updates to our Oklahoma City office, choosing a successor trustee and dealing with your "things."

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.
Whittney Stauffer Joins Friends of Finance

January 2022 Investment Perspectives

We discuss inflation, the market and the economy of 2021 and 2022, the 1099-B form, the difference oil & gas professionals can make, and more.

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.

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.
Illustration by TCO

Taking Stock of Big Tech

Big Tech has enjoyed big gains during the pandemic, but how long can its dominance last?
Whittney Stauffer Joins Friends of Finance

October 2021 Investment Perspectives

Our experts discuss how long Big Tech can keep up its big gains, Oklahoma's new decanting statute and protecting yourself from cybercriminals.
Whittney Stauffer Joins Friends of Finance

July 2021 Investment Perspectives

Our experts discuss whether inflation is here to stay and provide details on how Biden's tax plan could affect you and your assets.

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?
Whittney Stauffer Joins Friends of Finance

April 2021 Investment Perspectives

Our experts explain how Bitcoin works, what you can do to capitalize on the real estate market, and how Spousal Lifetime Access Trusts can help remove assets from your taxable estate.

Bitcoin Basics

Bitcoin has been described as 'digital gold.' But what exactly is it?
Whittney Stauffer Joins Friends of Finance

January 2021 Investment Perspectives

Our experts reflect on the economic trends likely to impact investors in 2021, preventive financial care and estate planning lessons from Walden.

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.

Disconnected and Detached – Stock Market v. Economic Reality

A comprehensive overview of the stock market in 2020.
Whittney Stauffer Joins Friends of Finance

October 2020 Investment Perspectives

A comprehensive overview of the stock market, the recipe for successful estate planning, saying farewell to Tom Wilkins, welcoming new professionals and more.
Investment Management: The Trend Is Your Friend

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.

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.

Phone Scam Alert

Do not fall for the Suspended Social Security Number scam.

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.
Bob McCormick

Final Edition – Bob’s Market Observations

For your sake, I have decided to wrap up with a single reminder I regularly direct at myself.
Whittney Stauffer Joins Friends of Finance

Tulsa World: TCO Promotes Emily Crain, Lindsay Bivin, Rebecca Mitchell and Sean Connolly

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TCO is proud to recognize our professionals who earned promotions in the last quarter of 2019.
Whittney Stauffer Joins Friends of Finance

Tulsa World: Ben Reynolds, Michael Hopper & Michael Hairston

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TCO welcomes Ben Reynolds as senior vice president in the Retirement Plan Solutions Division and promotes Michael Hopper and Michael R. Hairston to executive vice presidents.
Whittney Stauffer Joins Friends of Finance

Journal Record: Jessica Hendrix, Ben Reynolds and Emily Crain

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TCO welcomes Jessica Hendrix and Ben Reynolds as vice president and senior vice president, respectively. In addition, Emily Crain, who has been with the company since 2017, is promoted to senior vice president.

BRI GHOSN: 2019 TAXOLOGIST OF THE YEAR

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TCO is proud to announce that Vice President Bri Ghosn, CPA, CFP®, CDFA® was nominated for the 2019 Taxologist of the Year.
stocked refrigerator

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.
Bob McCormick

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.
Abraham Lincoln

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
Whittney Stauffer Joins Friends of Finance

KFOR: Joe Ray Represents Sunbeam Board in Surprising Educator with MVP Award

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Senior Vice President & Manager of the Oklahoma City Region Joe Ray was honored to represent the Sunbeam Family Services board of directors in presenting educator, Paula Gates with the Express Employment Professionals MVP Award for Excellence.
Federal Reserve

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.
Whittney Stauffer Joins Friends of Finance

Tulsa World: Jim Savage and Tracey Sealy Join Trust Company of Oklahoma

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We are pleased to announce that Jim Savage and Tracey Sealy joined our team as a senior vice president in the Investment Management division and marketing officer in the Corporate division, respectively.
TCO Fiduciary Rule

The Fiduciary Rule: What It Means For You

We have served our clients with a fiduciary duty since our founding in 1981.
financial abuse in elders

Alzheimer’s And Dementia Patients Are Easy Prey For Scammers

Avoid being a victim of financial exploitation.

Trying Not To Be a Dodo

Changing Political Climate Threatens Fiscal Conservative Species
glasses on desk

Is Fiscal Discipline Extinct? – Bob’s Market Observations

Does anyone care about government spending and debt? And who will pay the bill?
Jim Arens

James F. Arens II Named President of Trust Company of Oklahoma

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Announcement was made Tuesday, May 14. Thomas W. Wilkins remains chairman of the Board of Directors and CEO.

My Aunt’s Close Call – Bob’s Market Observations

Luckily, one day, Bob discovered that a beneficiary document his aunt signed could put her estate plan at risk of entering the troubled probate waters.

Ron Burke, CFP®, CTFA Joins Trust Company of Oklahoma

The oldest and largest independent trust company in the state is pleased to announce that Ron Burke joined the firm as a senior vice president in the Oklahoma City region.
man using laptop

Jobs of the Future – Bob’s Market Observations

"Many jobs in the future aren't even in existence today." Are we unprepared for what's coming? Read more.
financial planning expert- bob mccormick

New Year’s Day Reflection- Bob’s Market Observations

We ended 2018 with high volatility, but McCormick is optimistic our investments will be better off soon. It’s not shaping up to be a straight line though.
historical books

Why Establish a Trust?

In this article, Jean Kates shares her perspective, as a rancher's daughter, on why establishing a trust is so important.
financial abuse in elders

Preventing Exploitation of Elders

Jennifer May discusses a topic we all hope to never experience but need to be made aware of. Elder exploitation is no joke. Learn how to arm yourself and your loved ones.
Bob McCormick's Market Observations

Q & A – The Safety of your Money at TCO

(Originally published January 2009)
financial planning services

Yes, We Can!

David Stanley clears up a common misconception some individuals have when they hear the name “Trust Company of Oklahoma.”
Bob McCormick's Market Observations

Nation’s debt level must be addressed now

Published in the Tulsa World on August 18, 2011.
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