Year-end checklist highlights charitable giving strategies portfolio rebalancing after market gains and 529 college savings plans, Mesirow’s Jennifer Gartenberg shares actionable tips to maximize tax benefits and financial security before 2026 tax law changes, CHICAGO – December 18 2025, – In a recent “Mesirow Monday” segment on WGN’s Your Money Matters with Jon Hansen Mesirow Wealth Advisor, Jennifer Gartenberg, shared a year-end checklist of financial strategies for individuals and families With the holiday season in full swing and markets posting strong gains Gartenberg emphasized three key areas for year-end financial planning maximizing charitable giving reviewing asset allocation and leveraging 529 college savings plans, 1 Charitable Giving Maximize Impact and Tax Benefits, Three Ways to Give, Donate cash appreciated stock or make a qualified charitable distribution (QCD from your IRA, Appreciated Stock, Donating stock that has increased in value allows you to avoid capital gains tax and claim a deduction for the full market value, Qualified Charitable Distribution, People 70 ½ or older can donate directly from their IRA to charity lowering taxable income, U, pcoming Tax Law Change, Starting January 1 2026 the first 05% of income donated to charity will not be tax-deductible For example on $200000 income the first $1000 of donations will not receive a tax benefit, 2 Asset Allocation Rebalance After Market Gains, Review Your Portfolio, Strong market performance may have shifted your intended allocation (eg from 80/20 stocks/bonds to 90/10 Check your current 401(ks IRAs joint accounts and trust accounts given market gains and potentially changed life circumstances, Rebalancing, Consider booking gains and rebalancing to maintain your desired risk level especially in non-retirement accounts, Tax Timing, Gains realized before year-end are taxed in April waiting until January can defer taxes but market conditions may change, 3 529 College Savings Plans A Smart Holiday Gift, State Tax Benefit, Illinois residents can receive a state tax benefit for contributions to 529 plans, Gift Options, Friends and family can contribute to a child’s 529 plan making it a meaningful holiday gift, Plan Names, Illinois offers Bright Directions and Bright Start 529 plans which make gifting easy Gartenberg encourages individuals to consult with a Wealth Advisor to ensure their strategies align with personal goals and changing regulations By acting now families can maximize benefits and start the new year on solid financial footing Visit WGN Radio 720 to hear the remaining 10 tips for your year-end…, About Mesirow, Mesirow is an independent employee-owned financial services firm founded in 1937 Headquartered in Chicago with offices around the world we serve clients through a personal custom approach to reaching financial goals and acting as a force for social good With capabilities spanning Private Capital & Currency Capital Markets & Investment Banking and Advisory Services we invest in what…

Smart budgeting debt control and estate planning can help investors keep their finances from turning frightening, Early saving can potentially build lasting financial security, Regular plan reviews can support a sound strategy in any market, CHICAGO, – October 21 2025, – In a recent “Mesirow Monday” segment on WGN’s Your Money Matters with Jon Hansen, Noah Bloch, Wealth Advisor at Mesirow Wealth Management, shared the “five spookiest things” people can do with their finances—and practical ways to avoid them “Whether markets are up or down our goal is to help clients sleep well at night” Bloch said “Avoiding these ‘spooky’ habits this fall season can make a big difference over time”, 1 Not Tracking Spending, Failing to follow a budget can leave investors guessing where their money goes “Tracking expenses—especially big-ticket and recurring items—helps ensure you’re saving intentionally not accidentally overspending” Bloch explained, 2 Carrying High-Interest Debt, Credit card debt and personal loans with double-digit interest rates can undermine financial progress “Anything above 10% is too high” Bloch cautioned “Paying those balances down often has a greater return than investing”, 3 Delaying Retirement Saving, Waiting even a decade to start saving can dramatically reduce long-term growth “Time and compounding are your greatest allies” Bloch said “Even modest consistent contributions can grow substantially over 30 years”, 4 Neglecting Insurance Coverage, From life insurance to disability and umbrella policies coverage gaps can expose families to unnecessary risk “People often avoid thinking about insurance because it’s uncomfortable” Bloch noted “But ensuring proper protection is a critical part of every plan”, 5 Skipping an Estate Plan, Estate planning isn’t just for the wealthy Without a clear plan assets can become tied up and families divided “We’ve seen how lack of preparation can create conflict” Bloch said “A thoughtful estate plan ensures your wishes are honored and your loved ones are protected”, Personalized Planning for Every Season, Bloch emphasized that comprehensive financial planning should be customized to each client’s goals and life stage “The market doesn’t define your financial health—your plan does” he said Mesirow Wealth Management is the firm’s founding capability connecting clients to what matters today and across generations The firm’s Wealth Advisors are differentiated by their personal comprehensive wealth…, About Mesirow, Mesirow is an independent employee-owned financial services firm founded in 1937 Headquartered in Chicago with offices around the world we serve clients through a personal custom approach to reaching financial goals and acting as a force for social good With capabilities spanning Private Capital & Currency Capital Markets & Investment Banking and Advisory Services we invest in what…

Award recognizes “advisors that are leading the way”, Ranking based on quantitative and qualitative measures that identify the highest standards of best practices, Recognition comes as Mesirow Wealth Management continues to grow organically as well as through strategic acquisition, CHICAGO April 23 2025, – Mesirow an independent employee-owned financial services firm today announced that three of its Wealth Advisors, Jordan Scher AIF ®, Steven N Mesirow CFP ®, and, Brian Lorber CFP ®, have been recognized by Forbes as 2025 Best-in-State Wealth Advisors 1 Based on advisor surveys and interviews the advisors highlighted in the 2025 ranking cumulatively manage approximately $167 trillion in assets and stand out for their experience in navigating uncertain times According to Forbescom Forbes Top Advisor rankings evaluate quantitative and qualitative data weighing factors “such as…, Brian Price, CEO of Mesirow Wealth Management, “This recognition highlights each of these Advisor’s expertise dedication and commitment to providing outstanding client service We look forward to their continued contributions to the firm”, Jordan Scher AIF ®, joined Mesirow in 1997 and has over 25 years of experience in the financial services industry Jordan specializes in comprehensive financial planning and asset management for and serves as a member of the Mesirow Wealth Management Investment Management Committee, Steven N Mesirow CFP ®, joined Mesirow in 1993 and brings more than 30 years of financial services experience to the firm At Mesirow he offers investment advice and financial planning strategies designed to help accumulate manage and preserve wealth for individuals business owners and charitable organizations He is also actively involved in the Jewish United Fund Health and Human Services subcommittee, Brian Lorber CFP ®, joined Mesirow in 2010 and has 14 years of experience in the investment industry He serves as a member of the Mesirow Wealth Management Investment Committee and has also been recognized on Forbes’ 2024 Best-in-State Top Next-Gen Wealth Advisors list As a Barron’s Top 100 RIA firm 2 Mesirow Wealth Management offers a differentiated approach that places equal emphasis on 1 customized comprehensive…, About Mesirow, Mesirow is an independent employee-owned financial services firm founded in 1937 Headquartered in Chicago with offices around the world we serve clients through a personal custom approach to reaching financial goals and acting as a force for social good With capabilities spanning Private Capital & Currency Capital Markets & Investment Banking and Advisory Services we invest in what…

Ashley Crotwell CFP ® has joined Mesirow Wealth Management as Vice President Wealth Advisor and is located in the firm’s growing Stuart FL office, Focus is on creating customized comprehensive wealth plans for high net worth individuals families and business owners, Ashley brings more than 25 years of experience in the financial services industry, CHICAGO March 6 2025, – Mesirow an independent employee-owned financial services firm today announced that, Ashley Crotwell CFP ®, has joined Mesirow as Vice President Wealth Advisor Leveraging more than 25 years of experience Ashley will serve wealth clients by providing customized comprehensive wealth plans and expert investment selection “Expanding our presence in Stuart aligns with our focus on serving a growing base of wealth management clients and advancing the firm’s footprint across Florida and the regional Southeast…, Brian Price, CEO of Mesirow Wealth Management, “We look forward to ongoing organic growth and continued momentum through potential future acquisitions in the wealth management space” In September 2024 Mesirow acquired Price Wealth Management an established RIA firm based in Stuart Florida Ashley will join, Craig Price CFP ® CTFA, and, Nancy Zehr CTFA, Senior Client Relationship Specialist as they serve clients in Southeast Florida The expansion of wealth management services in Stuart reflects the firm’s plans to grow its headcount in the region with particular focus on Wealth Management and Capital Markets “We are excited to have Ashley join our team and broaden our ability to serve Florida clients” said, Craig Price, “We appreciate her professional expertise and her strong communication skills” Before joining Mesirow in 2025 Ashley served as a Senior Wealth Advisor at Sequoia Financial Advisors where she guided clients through investment planning tax planning cash flow planning debt management and budgeting Recently named to Barron’s 2024 Top 100 RIA Firms list for the fourth consecutive year 1 Mesirow…, About Mesirow , Mesirow is an independent employee-owned financial services firm founded in 1937 Headquartered in Chicago with offices around the world we serve clients through a personal custom approach to reaching financial goals and acting as a force for social good With capabilities spanning Global Investment Management Capital Markets & Investment Banking and Advisory Services we invest in what matters…

Firm welcomes Alex Gordon CFP ® as a Wealth Advisor, Alex will focus on creating comprehensive customized wealth planning for high net worth individuals and families, Hire reinforces Mesirow’s commitment to multi-generational client service and aligns with its ongoing strategic growth, CHICAGO April 9 2025, – Mesirow an independent employee-owned financial services firm today announced the addition of, Alex Gordon CFP ®, as a Wealth Advisor Alex brings deep experience in financial planning and analysis for high net worth individuals and multi-generational families He joins a seasoned team that includes, Lee Gordon, Senior Managing Director, and, Stephanie Feldman CFP ® CTFA, Managing Director, Mesirow Wealth Management the firm’s founding capability offers a differentiated approach that balances comprehensive customized wealth planning with expert investment selection in all markets The firm provides clients access to traditional stock and bond investment opportunities and alternative investments enabling their portfolios to evolve along with their lives Many client relationships span…, Brian Price, CEO of Mesirow Wealth Management, “Alex’s experience and client-first approach make him a valuable addition as we continue expanding through strategic hiring organic growth and future acquisitions in the wealth management space” “I am excited to join Mesirow Wealth Management and contribute to the firm’s unique approach to wealth management” said, Alex Gordon, “I look forward to building strong long-term relationships and helping clients navigate their financial journeys with confidence” Prior to joining Mesirow Alex served as a Manager of Financial Planners and a Financial Planner at LPL Financial where he assisted advisors with client data-gathering financial analysis and the development of comprehensive financial plans Mesirow Wealth Management…, About Mesirow , Mesirow is an independent employee-owned financial services firm founded in 1937 Headquartered in Chicago with offices around the world we serve clients through a personal custom approach to reaching financial goals and acting as a force for social good With capabilities spanning Global Investment Management Capital Markets & Investment Banking and Advisory Services we invest in what matters…

Mesirow appoints Nitay Laor as Director Strategic Growth and Acquisitions Mesirow Wealth Management, Nitay will focus on strategic partnerships acquisitions and advisor recruitment, Newly developed role is designed to accelerate the firm’s ongoing growth initiatives, CHICAGO November 20 2025, – Mesirow an independent employee-owned financial services firm today announced that, Nitay Laor, has joined Mesirow Wealth Management as, Director Strategic Growth and Acquisitions, a newly created role designed to accelerate the firm’s continuing growth initiatives In this role Nitay will lead efforts to execute both organic and inorganic growth strategies including strategic partnerships acquisitions and advisor recruitment “Nitay’s strategic insight proven M&A expertise and understanding of the Mesirow culture make him uniquely positioned to drive our next phase of…, Brian Price, CEO of Mesirow Wealth Management, “His leadership will play a key role in strengthening our partnerships expanding our reach and furthering Mesirow’s commitment to empowering clients and advisors alike” Nitay brings deep expertise and a proven track record from his tenure at Mesirow Investment Banking where he served as Vice President and led transaction execution across diverse industries such as industrials business services…, Nitay Laor, “We have an incredible opportunity to expand our platform through strategic partnerships and advisor recruitment while continuing to deliver the independent personalized wealth management services that defines Mesirow” This new role reflects a commitment to expanding access to exceptional advisors and comprehensive wealth planning - strengthening expertise tailoring services and broadening reach…, About Mesirow, Mesirow is an independent employee-owned financial services firm founded in 1937 Headquartered in Chicago with offices around the world we serve clients through a personal custom approach to reaching financial goals and acting as a force for social good With capabilities spanning Private Capital & Currency Capital Markets & Investment Banking and Advisory Services we invest in what…

Firm hires Andrew Mutlu  as Wealth Advisor Focus will be on providing comprehensive wealth planning and constructing investment strategies tailored to fit the needs of high net worth individuals and families, CHICAGO February 8 2023, – Mesirow an independent employee-owned financial services firm today announced that Andrew Mutlu has joined Mesirow as a Wealth Advisor joining the Maniscalco Wealth Management team Andrew will focus on providing comprehensive wealth planning and constructing investment strategies that are tailored to fit the needs of high net worth individuals and families Mesirow recently ranked 47th in Barron…, Brian Price Head of Advisory Services, “Mesirow has a rich longstanding history of helping wealth clients achieve their financial goals I am excited to be joining Mesirow Wealth Management and look forward to contributing to the team’s ongoing growth” said, Andrew Mutlu Wealth Advisor, Andrew has seven years of experience in the financial services industry Prior to joining Mesirow he held roles as a Financial Advisor and an Investment Executive with other wealth management firms He volunteers at Junior Achievement of Chicago to help educate and inspire youth around financial literacy Andrew earned his Bachelor of Science from Ohio University He is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER…, About Mesirow, Mesirow is an independent employee-owned financial services firm founded in 1937 Headquartered in Chicago with offices around the world we serve clients through a personal custom approach to reaching financial goals and acting as a force for social good With capabilities spanning Global Investment Management Capital Markets & Investment Banking and Advisory Services we invest in what matters…

In this newly created role Gary serves as a Mesirow Wealth Advisor as well as a centralized Advanced Planning Specialist with a focus on tax planning, Mesirow Wealth Advisors gain access to this centralized specialized tax planning resource as they build comprehensive wealth plans for clients, Gary brings over 30 years of tax planning and financial services experience and will be based in the firm’s Highland Park IL office, CHICAGO February 25 2025, – Mesirow an independent employee-owned financial services firm today announced that, Gary Pattengale CFP ®, has joined Mesirow as Senior Vice President Advanced Planning Specialist Wealth Advisor Leveraging more than 30 years of experience Gary serves as a Wealth Advisor for high net worth individuals and families as well as a centralized specialized tax planning resource for all Mesirow Wealth Advisors as they build comprehensive wealth plans inclusive of tax implications and strategy considerations…, Brian Price, CEO Mesirow Wealth Management, “We look forward to Gary’s collaboration with our Wealth Advisors as they serve their clients and to the contributions he will make to the ongoing growth of Mesirow Wealth Management our firm’s founding capability” “I am excited to join Mesirow Wealth Management and build on the firm’s outstanding 88-year reputation for serving the unique dynamic needs of high net worth individuals and families…, Gary Pattengale CFP ® Senior Vice President Advanced Planning Specialist Wealth Advisor, Prior to joining Mesirow Gary held roles at Corient and Northern Trust advising individuals families and entities on their investment and financial planning needs and helping corporate executives and key employees navigate their stock-based compensation plans Mesirow Wealth Management has more than $124 billion in assets under management / assets under advisement 2 and Mesirow overall has $3062…, About Mesirow,   Mesirow is an independent employee-owned financial services firm founded in 1937 Headquartered in Chicago with offices around the world we serve clients through a personal custom approach to reaching financial goals and acting as a force for social good With capabilities spanning Global Investment Management Capital Markets & Investment Banking and Advisory Services we invest in what…

Hear Bob’s radio interview from December 5 2022 as he discusses the macroeconomic environment and how investors can benefit from a year-end portfolio check-up and what that could entail Listen to the replay

Hear Gregg’s interview from August 5 2024 where he discussed the importance of a mid-year financial check-in  Listen to the replay