Gerald Townsend, founder of Townsend Asset Management, shares insights on navigating today’s financial environment and why thoughtful planning matters. In this CBS17 feature, he highlights the importance of clarity, confidence, and long-term vision in building financial security.

When the Dow soars or sinks, your brain sounds the alarm—“This must be the top!” or “Get out now!”
But investing isn’t about instincts; it’s about discipline.
Your emotional brain fears loss, while your rational plan builds wealth.
Success comes from staying steady when fear gets loud—and trusting the long game over short-term noise.

When markets hit record highs, many wait for a “better” entry—but history shows that waiting usually costs more. New highs are normal, not warnings. The real mistake isn’t buying at the top—it’s staying out and missing long-term growth.

Technology has changed nearly everything about the way we live, work, and connect including how scammers operate.

As spring arrives and the weather warms up, many people turn their attention to cleaning out closets and organizing their homes.

What makes one investor stick with their strategy through market swings while another panics and pulls out? Often, it comes down to mindset.

Tax season might not spark joy, but a refund sure can. In 2025, the IRS estimates the average federal income tax refund will top $3,170.1

What financial habits have helped you most in life or held you back? No matter how you answer, your money habits have a lot to do with how you grew up.

What will happen to your business when it’s time for you to take a step back? That can be a tough question that many business owners eventually have to face.

Tax season doesn’t have to feel like an uphill battle. With the right strategies, you can minimize your tax bill and keep more of your hard-earned money where it belongs, in your pocket.

Market volatility can feel like a rollercoaster. Thrilling on the way up, stomach-churning on the way down. Even seasoned investors get a little uneasy when the market takes a dive.

How many of your financial choices are based purely on logic? It could be fewer than you think. That’s because most of us make money decisions with our emotions in play.

What does it take to minimize your tax bill, not just this year but in the years to come? The answer varies for each individual.

Watching your portfolio take a hit can be unsettling, but staying focused on the long game is crucial. Even in uncertain times, a long-term strategy helps you navigate market ups and downs more effectively.

If you’re like most people, you may feel it’s not. In fact, concerns about running out of money in retirement are very common. Many people today believe they’ll need at least $1.5 million saved to retire comfortably.

When are you going to retire?

Birthday celebrations at 50 and each year after can be meaningful opportunities to reflect and feel grateful for life’s journey.

What money topics are the most taboo to talk about?

If you’re like many investors, the thought of paying capital gains taxes on your successful investments might feel overwhelming.

What’s the first thing you think of when it comes to money?