The Coup Agency

Financial/ Retirement/ Estate Planning Strategies/ Annuities

Welcome to our Web site, where you’ll find a wealth of information in the form of newsletter articles, calculators, and research reports.



We hope your visit will help you understand the opportunities and potential rewards that are available when you take a proactive approach to your personal financial situation. We have created this Web site to help you gain a better understanding of the financial concepts behind insurance, investing*, retirement, estate planning, and wealth preservation. Most important, we hope you see the value of working with skilled professionals to pursue your financial goals.


 

We’re here to help educate you about the basic concepts of financial management; to help you learn more about who we are; and to give you fast, easy access to market performance data. We hope you take advantage of this resource and visit us often. Be sure to add our site to your list of "favorites" in your Internet browser. We frequently update our information, and we wouldn’t want you to miss any developments in the area of personal finance.


 

*Eric McDowell  is a Registered Representative and Investment Advisor Representative of Equity Services, Inc.  Securities and investment advisory services are offered solely through registered representatives and investment adviser representatives of Equity Services, Inc., Member FINRA/SIPC,  Broker/Dealer and Registered Investment Adviser, 500 Franklin Ave, Unit 5, Berlin, MD 21811, 410-629-0357.  The Coup Agency and all other entities and individuals referenced are independent of Equity Services, Inc. unless otherwise noted.


 

 
Calculators

Car Affordability

How much can you afford to pay for a car?

Impact of Inflation

Estimate the future cost of an item based on today’s prices and the rate of inflation you expect.

Life Expectancy

Knowing your likely life expectancy is an important factor in making long-term financial plans.

Lifetime Earnings

This calculator is designed to help you attach a dollar figure to your life’s work.

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Newsletters

HOT TOPIC: Why Global Investors Are Worried About European Debt

European officials are working on a bailout deal to help debt-laden Greece avoid default, but some are worried a broader eurozone financial crisis may be waiting in the wings. How likely is a Greek sovereign debt default, and how could it affect European and U.S. financial markets?

Investing in the Future

Due to the fiscal struggles of state governments, in-state tuition and fees at public four-year colleges and universities rose dramatically for the 2011-12 school year. The cost of private institutions also continues to increase. This article presents information on the cost of a college education and how a 529 plan may be a helpful savings vehicle.

Be Ready for a Change in Interest Rates

Fluctuating interest rates can be challenging for bond investors who want to reinvest their principal. When rates are low, they may have to accept lower yields; when rates rise when principal is tied up, they may not be able to benefit. One strategy to help manage reinvestment risk is to build a bond ladder.

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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