Inflation expectations were mixed in December, with consumers' one- and three-year expectations at 3%, according to the New York Federal Reserve. However, five-year expectations dropped to 2.7%. More households offered a positive assessment of their own finances, but they anticipate more modest future gains in earnings and income.

A survey of 277 physicians with at least $2 million in investable assets shows significant opportunities for wealth managers in estate, exit, retirement and asset protection planning, write Jerry Prince and Homer Smith. They note that many physicians have outdated estate plans, lack formal exit strategies and express concerns about retirement funds and lawsuits. Advisors can add value by offering sophisticated solutions and building networks of specialists.

In light of the shooting of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson last month, some ultra-high-net-worth families may want to integrate security into estate planning, writes attorney Matthew Erskine. Among the issues to consider are the tax treatment of security programs, how to integrate them into succession planning, and cybersecurity protocols.

Financial advisors should put their own biases aside and be willing to discuss cryptocurrencies with clients who are interested in them, writes Kimberly Foss of Mercer Advisors. Foss recommends approaching it like you would any other investment and focusing on basic concepts such as available resources, risk tolerance and long-term goals.

Determining the right retirement savings rate depends on several factors, including income and time frame, although PGIM's David Blanchett says that "15% is probably the right place to start." For lower earners, 10% may be a more realistic savings rate, while higher earners should look to sock away closer to 20%, Blanchett says.

Managing taxes in retirement can be complex, but three steps can simplify the process, according to financial planner Evan Beach. Retirees should withhold taxes from income sources such as pensions and Social Security, run projections based on total tax liability and pay the difference through quarterly estimated payments, writes Beach.