Market Newsletter/Blog

The Relationship Between Wealth and Well-Being

Does money make you happier?  Yes, but not always for the reasons you might think.

BlackRock conducts an annual survey called "Investor Pulse."  Each year it explores a different theme.  This past year focused on whether money makes you happier.

Six-Step Portfolio Review

When markets get rocky, it's particularly important to shift the focus back on to the things within your control.  It's a time to reexamine what's in your portfolio, why you own it, and if the level of risk is appropriate.

If you’re in your 20s, rejoice! You’re in a great position to create the life you want, starting with a secure financial future. While it’s common to feel overwhelmed when entering the workforce full time, there are a lot of things you can do fresh out of college that will help you attain your professional and financial goals earlier than you may expect.

For years it was assumed that tax planning was reserved for the wealthy. While wealthy individuals will see the most benefit from tax planning, with big changes looming for the 2018 tax year, even middle-income earners can reap the benefits of tax planning.  

Good news for savers, the IRS announced new retirement plan contribution limits for 2019 to go along with those previously announced for health savings accounts (HSA).  The larger contribution limits mean lower taxes, potentially higher after-tax investment returns and greater retirement income.

The Federal Reserve is expected to hike short-term interest rates for the third time this year.  A fourth hike is expected in December with forecasts for as many as three more next year.  With each successive hike, the yield curve flattens and with that the potential for an inversion.

September has historically been one of the worst months for stocks, but fundamentals and other factors should provide further long-term support.

As Dr. Edward Yardeni shows, September has been the worst month for the S&P 500 down -1%.  This, coupled with midterm elections, trade, and rising rates are a drag on the market:

There are some powerful lessons we all can learn from what is shaping up as the longest bull market in history.

If you're a homeowner, 50 years of age and older, your home likely represents a significant portion of your net worth.

Home values have steadily risen since the financial crisis.  The Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis estimates home equity is now close to $15 trillion, a record.

Today's Journal published:  A New Life, A New House.  Whether divorced or never married, single women over 55 are among the fastest-growing demographic of home buyers.