About the Author

Stephen Oakes is an experienced financial titan from New York who brings Wall Street to Main Street. Over the past 11 years, he has developed and tested the renown, Oakes Momentum System, which uses a unique constellation of technical indicators to find timely buy and sell points. He holds an M.B.A. in the United States (New York) and has studied internationally at the Reims School of Management in France.

See All Posts by This Author

Personal Savings Rate: Let’s Chat

March 27th, 2007 • Related • Filed Under

My fellow Americans are slowing tightening the financial noose around their necks. We certainly can’t rely on the government, friends, and family for positive moral support so what is the frugal type to do!? This is where I feel obligated to step in. Let’s have that honest discussion. It starts by being honest with yourself, tracking income & expenses, having financial goals, and knowing:

What is my personal savings rate each month?

My personal savings rate after taxes and expenses (not including the mortgage because it is an equity builder) each month fluctuates around 45%. This is obviously not the norm as you’d find this blogger completely committed to saving every penny possible. I am certainly open to entertaining any questions that you may have for me because you may just find some of my habits useful for your own financial situation.

Money

Out of curiosity and benefit to our readers, please share any tips, stories, and experiences that you have found to be helpful in maximizing your own savings rate.

Cheers…

There Are 2 Responses So Far. »

  1. Comment by Loi Tran on 28 March 2007:

    My savings rate vary, but I try to save around 60% if possible. My expenses are pretty right now, but I know it will go up by a lot soon. I’m currently maxing out my 401k and have already contributed to my Roth IRA for 2007. Gotta take advantage of those tax sheltered accounts.

  2. Comment by Stephen Oakes on 28 March 2007:

    Loi,

    Amazing and congrats on building a solid financial picture for yourself ;) If you do not mind me asking, how long have you been working? Also, what events in your life helped define you as a “saver” as opposed to being a spender?

    It’s is strange for me that my parents used to be spenders and I ended up becoming the complete opposite. At least now they realize that retirement is just around the corner as they are currently playing catch-up in their 401k and Roth IRA accounts.

    Thank you once again for your comment. I hope to hear from you soon ;)