Tag: finance
-
Current Inflation Data – Costs on the Rise (But Slowing)
Inflation has been a hot topic over the past couple of years, and we want to update you on where things stand now. The latest data show that inflation is still present but has been gradually cooling off. In February, the annual inflation rate in the U.S. was 2.8%, which is a slight dip from…
-
Tariffs Going Into Effect April 2 – What to Know
You may have heard that a new set of tariffs is scheduled to go into effect on April 2. These tariffs are essentially taxes on certain imported goods as part of ongoing trade policy changes. Let’s break down what this means in plain English: •What are the tariffs and why now? These new tariffs are…
-
Recent Market Pullback – Stay the Course
By now you’ve probably seen headlines about the recent pullback in the stock market. Yes, U.S. stocks have slid off their highs over the past few weeks amid trade war news and recession worries. In fact, many large tech companies have seen significant declines (the top 7 tech giants collectively lost nearly $2 trillion in…
-
Market Update – January 27, 2025
Over the past week, financial markets have experienced significant volatility, primarily driven by developments in the artificial intelligence (AI) sector. A notable event was the emergence of China’s DeepSeek, an AI assistant application that has rapidly gained popularity. DeepSeek’s rise has led to a substantial sell-off in major technology stocks, as investors reassess the competitive…
-
Market Update – January 21, 2025
National Economic Overview The U.S. economy continues to navigate a complex landscape marked by rising bond yields and market concentration. In 2025, two primary risks have emerged for investors: elevated bond yields and a concentrated market index. The shift from an era of low interest rates to one characterized by higher rates and looser fiscal…
-
Internet vs. Financial Planner: The Real Value of Personalized Financial Advice
With the rise of financial influencers (or “finfluencers”) and easily accessible advice on platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube, people are turning to social media and the internet for quick money tips. While these platforms can offer helpful information, they also come with risks. When it comes to building a financial future, there’s a significant…
-
5 Common Financial Mistakes Families Make (And How to Avoid Them)
Families work hard to build a stable life, but navigating financial decisions can be overwhelming. Unfortunately, even small missteps can have long-term consequences. The good news? With the right planning, these mistakes are entirely avoidable. Let’s dive into five common financial pitfalls and how you can steer clear of them. 1. Relying Too Heavily on…
-
Financial Planning for Gen X: Addressing Your Challenges
Generation X, born between 1965 and 1980, is often called the “sandwich generation.” You’re possibly balancing careers, raising children, caring for aging parents, and trying to prepare for your own retirement—all while maybe facing personal financial challenges. If you’re a Gen Xer, you’re likely asking yourself: This post dives into these concerns and offers actionable…
-
Navigating Year-End Market Trends: What We Think Investors Can Expect and How to Prepare for the Remainder of 2024
As 2024 concludes, investors should monitor trends such as stabilizing inflation, a resilient job market, and growing interest in ESG investments. Key strategies include rebalancing portfolios, focusing on long-term goals, and diversifying across asset classes. Staying informed and consulting a financial planner can enhance decision-making in a fluctuating market.
-
How Rising Treasury Yields Impact Stock Markets
As a financial planner, understanding market behavior is crucial for making informed decisions. One phenomenon that often raises questions is why stock markets tend to decline when U.S. Treasury yields rise. While the relationship between the bond market and the stock market can be complex, there are key reasons why rising yields often lead to…
