The stock market had mixed results for the 3rd quarter, while the bond markets and real estate provided above average returns. The continued stories of trade tensions with China and lower interest rates were the major drivers behind the results. While it is easy to get lost in the headlines and the short term movements of the…
Although market volatility is a completely normal and expected part of investing, nevertheless it tends to stir up people’s nerves. No one wants to take a loss, so when you see the market falling the natural reaction is to want to jump ship. Ironically, this is typically the way to solidify a loss rather than to prevent…
By Myriah Lipke August 9, 2019 A common question we receive from clients is determining appropriate ways to communicate about wealth and finances to the next generations. This question spans all age groups from parents and grandparents who want to teach the concept of saving to young children, to talking to adult children about estate planning and…
Equity and fixed income markets all posted positive gains for the second quarter. Trade concerns between the US and China eased a bit, as did the expectations by the Federal Reserve for interest rate increases. Both of these factors played a role in the markets expanding upon their gains from the first quarter. As always, be sure…
A FLOWER GARDEN OF MARKET RETURNS The US stock market has delivered an average annual return of around 10% since 1926. But short-term results may vary, and in any given period stock returns can be positive, negative, or flat. When setting expectations, it’s helpful to see the range of outcomes experienced by investors historically. For example, how…
The first quarter of 2019 was distinguished by a market rebound after a turbulent decline at the end of 2018. Through the first three months of the year equities continued to climb as the government shutdown ended and the Federal Reserve lessened their forecast for interest rate hikes. Despite the strong quarter, the possibility of volatility is always…
Now that we’re into 2019, and with US stocks outperforming non-US stocks in recent years, some investors have again turned their attention towards the role that global diversification plays in their portfolios. For the five-year period ending October 31, 2018, the S&P 500 Index had an annualized return of 11.34% while the MSCI World ex USA Index…
We are pleased to present you with the Year End Market Review for 2018. Stocks were negative for the year, and well below their average returns, with the international markets leading the way lower. Despite also having lower than average returns, bonds, largely did their job of stabilizing values and cushioning the losses from stocks. Global bonds were in fact…
As we rapidly approach the end of the year, we want to pass along some year-end financial planning tips and ideas. Employing these strategies can save you significant money each year. Don't worry, if you're already one of our clients we're in the midst of checking off this list for you (and checking it twice!) Tax-loss Harvesting: …
Do you have a dream of where you want to live during retirement? Maybe you want to move to a place with sun, warmth, and a beach during all four seasons? Perhaps you’re an avid hiker and biker and you dream of moving close to the mountains? Or perhaps, retirement is the perfect time to transform your…