Michael

Nowhere to Hide

Nowhere to Hide

The first six months of 2022 have been painful for investors, but there are some silver linings to the market’s selloff.

It is important to maintain perspective when it comes to the financial markets; even with the selloff this year, most investors have benefited from past gains.

Investment success is determined by how one reacts to turmoil and market selloffs; maintaining composure gives the best odds of getting through a downturn.

April's Fall

April's Fall

Investor sentiment is sitting at lows last seen in the global financial crisis as inflation, geopolitics, and China’s Covid-19 policy have consumed markets. In turbulent times like now, our emotions can cloud our rationality. Time in the market is more productive than timing the market. Investing success comes from focusing on what one can control, particularly asset allocation and investment strategy.

Buy the Dip?

Buy the Dip?

January was a bruising month for global stocks, particularly U.S. indices, with markets focused on uncertainty around monetary policy. Given recent steady gains, volatility feels unnerving, but it is important to remember that volatility is part of a normal, healthy financial market. Higher interest rates are not a bad thing for stocks; stocks performed well in past periods of higher rates. In times like these, it is important to remain anchored in a long-term investment strategy.

Are I Bonds Worth the Trouble?

Are I Bonds Worth the Trouble?

The rise in inflation has led to an eye-catching rise in the interest rate offered by Series I Savings Bonds, a.k.a. I Bonds. The 7.12% rate on the current I Bond issue is hefty, but it’s important to consider several important details. I Bonds may be most appropriate for those looking for an alternative to cash or certificates of deposit (CDs).

October's Rebound

October's Rebound

Global stocks had their best month since November of 2020, rebounding from a September pullback. The U.S. Treasury yield curve flattened on heightened concerns of sooner-than-expected interest rate increases. The financial markets continue to eye global central bank moves, focusing on the tapering of asset purchases and plans for interest rate hikes. Central banks will continue to dominate the near-term narrative but maintaining an appropriate long-term investment strategy will continue to serve investors well.

Wall Street's Wall of Worry

Wall Street's Wall of Worry

Global stocks continued their steady march upward, adding to already strong year-to-date returns and shrugging off multiple headwinds. The smooth ascent may appear out of touch with reality, but investors, accompanied by a strong economic backdrop and central bank support, are learning to live with the virus. So far, the focus of investors has been vaccines over variants; however, the impact on the global recovery due to the delta variant and any possible future variant is uncertain. With the global market increasingly concentrated in select U.S. companies, we believe international markets are more important than ever.

Tax Changes May Be Coming: How it May Impact You

Tax Changes May Be Coming: How it May Impact You

The Biden administration has rolled out a three-part fiscal agenda that proposes raising revenue through higher taxes on wealthy individuals, corporations, and estates. At this juncture, these are still far from turning into law; however, it is important to consider the implications now. Careful tax planning and review of estate planning strategies will be important for high-income earners and wealthy households.

Reddit Rebellion

Reddit Rebellion

January had no shortage of headlines; however, audiences were captivated by a merry band of retail traders strapped with low-cost trading apps and Reddit accounts attempting to “short squeeze” hedge funds. Although entertaining, it can end badly for those late to the party. Markets continue to digest information regarding monetary policy, fiscal stimulus, and the COVID vaccination rollout. Good planning and appropriate asset allocation continue to serve investors well over the long-term.