The first quarter of 2026 provided several geopolitical events that increased uncertainty and volatility around the economy and financial markets. The year began with modest economic growth, moderate yet sticky inflation readings, a softening labor market characterized by lack of new hirings, but also few layoffs, and market expectations for several interest rate cuts throughout […]
Click to read as PDF Market Volatility Market volatility is part of the investing process. More than 7 times a year investors should expect pullbacks of 3 percent and, at least once a year (since 1928), investors should be prepared for a 10 percent correction. When viewed from a historical perspective, recent market activity isn’t […]
The year 2025 was marked by both turbulence and perseverance, shaped by the disruptive impact of trade tariffs and the constant buzz surrounding artificial intelligence. Despite these headwinds, the financial markets successfully worked through a complex environment and finished 2025 with double-digit returns for the third consecutive year. Those results were not achieved without difficulty. […]
The old Wall Street adage that “every bull market climbs a wall of worry” has rarely felt more fitting than it does this year. In 2025, investors have faced a long list of market concerns, from tariffs and trade tensions to rising geopolitical risks, persistent inflation, and policy uncertainty. Yet, despite bouts of extreme volatility […]
The second quarter of 2025 was one of the most volatile one in recent years, unfolding against a backdrop of global uncertainty. It started with “Liberation Day,” when the administration announced a slew of new tariffs on imports, and the equity markets were shaken with the level of proposed duties. This announcement led to a […]
Tax Efficiency in Retirement
Will you pay higher taxes in retirement? It’s possible
Who’s Right on Inflation? Fed, Shoppers, or Investors
Tracking inflation is like herding cats these days
Three Key Questions to Answer Before Taking Social Security
Social Security is a critical component of the retirement financial strategy for many Americans
The first quarter of 2025 took equity investors on a wild roller coaster ride. U.S. equity markets started the year on a strong note, adding +4.6% to a rally that started after the election and continued through the middle of February, when the S&P 500 Index reached yet another all-time high. However, in the second […]
Where Will Your Retirement Money Come From?
What workers anticipate in terms of retirement income sources may differ considerably from what retirees actually experience
Keep Your Umbrella Handy
An increase in personal wealth may bring greater financial flexibility; it may also bring greater liability
The year of 2024 was remarkable for the U.S. economy and the equity markets. High interest rates and stubborn inflation, raging wars in the Middle East and Europe, and election uncertainties and surprises around the globe were just some the factors that should have caused an economic contraction and a downturn in the stock market. […]
What Is a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD)?
As you build your legacy, considering how to leverage your charitable contributions can be a fulfilling endeavor
Protection Against Uninsured Drivers
About 14 percent of all motorists, or one-in-seven drivers, do not have automobile insurance
Does Your Credit Score Affect Your Insurance Rates?
While the vast majority of insurance companies use credit-based insurance scores to help determine the price of insurance, it is banned in the states of Massachusetts, Michigan, Hawaii, and California
Equity markets continued to build on the year’s strong start during the third quarter. It was a turbulent period for U.S. markets, with the S&P 500 posting both its biggest one-day drop following a weak jobs report that fueled fears of a recession at the start of August, followed by the strongest rebound since 2022. […]
Understanding Money Market Funds
A money market fund, not to be confused with a money market account
Buying A Vacation Home?
5 Questions To Consider First
Catch-Up Contributions
A recent survey found that 18% of workers are very confident about having enough money to live comfortably through their retirement years. At the same time, 36% are not confident
