FINSUM
The Best Golf Courses for Closing Months
When autumn arrives, golf courses across the U.S. are draped in vibrant hues of orange, red, and yellow, making each round a visual delight. From the crisp, cool air of New England to the scenic mountains of the Ozarks, fall is one of the best times to tee off.
- Sugarloaf Golf Club in Maine, with its challenging mountain terrain and sweeping views of brightly colored maples, offers a truly unforgettable experience.
- In Massachusetts, Crumpin-Fox Golf Club sits in serene isolation, with its standout par fours and natural beauty enhanced by the Berkshire Mountains' autumnal splendor.
- Further south in Missouri, Ozarks National at Big Cedar Lodge combines dramatic ridgelines, sinkholes, and thrilling holes with panoramic views that are brought to life in the fall.
Ideal playing conditions, warm days, and colorful backdrops make these courses a must-visit for golfers seeking both challenge and beauty before winter sets in.
Finsum: Whether it's the foliage or the perfect fairways, autumn golf is an experience not to be missed.
Munis Prep Bull Run with Doveish Fed
As the Federal Reserve signals more rate cuts, long-term municipal bonds (munis) are becoming increasingly attractive due to their competitive yields, tax benefits, and potential for price appreciation. Historically, long-term munis tend to outperform when the Fed shifts from a hawkish to a dovish stance, benefiting from falling interest rates.
These bonds also offer superior credit quality and often deliver higher tax-equivalent yields compared to taxable bonds, making them a strong alternative to Treasuries. With their longer durations, munis are particularly sensitive to rate changes, allowing for significant price gains in a falling rate environment.
Moreover, the increased issuance of municipal bonds this year has created a favorable buying opportunity, especially as tax reforms and higher marginal rates could further boost demand for tax-exempt investments.
Finsum: For investors looking to capitalize on rate cuts, long-term munis offer a compelling mix of yield, tax advantages, and credit stability
The Biggest Splash in Traditional Menswear
Michael Hill became creative director of Drake’s in 2010, he transformed the brand from a traditional maker of brightly-patterned ties into a contemporary menswear label.
He expanded beyond accessories, introducing clothing like blazers, shirts, and sweaters while maintaining a focus on craftsmanship. The debut of the unstructured Games blazer marked a turning point, attracting a new wave of tailoring enthusiasts.
Collaborations with brands like Aimé Leon Dore also enhanced Drake’s reputation. Hill is cautious about rapid growth but optimistic about the brand’s evolving place in menswear.
Finsum: Drake’s has been central in moving away from slim and narrow cuts into a more functional and traditional fit.
Three of the Top Sailing Destinations
If you're dreaming of a holiday that lets you escape the crowds and uncover hidden gems like secluded bays and uninhabited islands, sailing might be the perfect option. It offers a unique way to explore remote locations often unreachable by land, allowing you to experience the rich diversity of regions through island hopping, village visits, and resort stops—all in one trip.
For first-time sailors, the British Virgin Islands (BVIs) provide calm seas, steady winds, and easy sailing between close islands, making it ideal for beginners. Families might prefer Croatia, with its calm Adriatic waters, kid-friendly island hops, and exciting stops like Brač and the Kornati Archipelago, known for their hiking trails and clear waters.
Food-lovers can take advantage of Italy's coastal cuisine by sailing the Amalfi Coast, sampling local delicacies from stewed rabbit in Ischia to pasta with anchovies in the charming fishing village of Cetara.
Finsum: Gearing your sailing vacation around a secondary itinerary such as food or wine sounds like the best way to maximize your experience.
HNW Demanding AI From Advisors
Advisors aiming to strengthen relationships with younger affluent investors may want to enhance their AI knowledge, as a new survey suggests. Conducted by Boosted.ai, the survey found that younger high-net-worth (HNW) individuals are increasingly incorporating AI into their daily lives and expect their financial advisors to do the same.
With 82% of respondents describing themselves as AI-proficient and 56% using it regularly, many are looking for advisors who integrate AI into their services. In fact, 35% of younger HNW individuals would consider leaving their current advisor if they aren’t adopting AI.
As a generational wealth transfer looms, adapting to the preferences of tech-savvy clients becomes critical. However, the survey also reveals concerns about AI, particularly around data security and regulation.
Finsum: This is a huge shift in adoption of this technology and advisors might want to integrate this into their practice for new client adoption.