Apprehension about the election has many people worrying about how financial markets may be affected by the outcome. Here are some thoughts to ponder: “Election years are not often the best times for stock market investors. Over the past 90 years shares included in the S&P 500, an index of America’s biggest firms, have returned […]
The Election is Almost Here Read More »
When training to become a financial professional, much of our course work centers on the six critical areas of creating a financial strategy. Some recognize October as Financial Planning Month, so it’s an excellent opportunity to review those six personal finance areas. Cash Management: This is a broad topic that can address many issues. One area
October is Financial Planning Month Read More »
As the U.S. presidential election draws near, expect to see more and more headlines that propose, “What will happen next if this person is elected?” or, “What policy changes to prepare for in the next four years?” In reality, however, it isn’t easy to anticipate what may happen with the financial markets after the November
2020 Elections and Your Investment Portfolio Read More »
The brain has a lot of gray matter but hates gray areas. As a planning machine, the brain needs information that is certain so it can figure out the best course of action. And when we don’t get certain information, we get agitated. Perhaps you have said, “I don’t care if the news is good
Uncertainty – Outcomes – Our Decisions Read More »
Due to COVID-19, Americans are spending more time at home than ever before, leading to a record amount of spending on home improvement.1 It’s not that big of a surprise since many Americans now find their homes are doing triple duty as a place to live, work, and learn. Homeowners are funneling more money into
Home Improvements Trend Higher Read More »
Whenever we experience a significant and unexpected event in our lives, such as the Coronavirus, it can result in a lot of uncertainty and anxiety. As investors, we want to know what to do. Do we run for safety or stick to our plan? One of the best things we can do at times of
Shock, Awe & Perspective Read More »
The current pandemic breeds a lot of uncertainty and fear. The media actively participates spreading the fear. Headlines often accentuate the negative because that is what gets us to tune in. Pessimism and cynicism are weirdly addictive. While addictive, they can also be destructive – both mentally and financially. Most of us don’t seek them
Virtue of Optimism Read More »
Stimulus checks are arriving. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has distributed $157.9 billion through 88 million stimulus payments, according to Andrew Keshner of MarketWatch. If you have recently lost a job, or you’re having difficulty paying bills, your check may already be spent. However, if you’re still working, or remain financially comfortable, think carefully about
What Are You Doing With Your Stimulus Check? Read More »
The Markets We live in interesting times. There is discussion about whether the saying, “May you live in interesting times,” is a blessing or a curse. At this point in 2020, we all understand why. Last week, the world watched in consternation as the price of oil, specifically West Texas Intermediate crude oil, dropped into
Market Commentary April 27, 2020 Read More »