The past few weeks are a period we won’t ever forget in the financial markets and more importantly, in life. Economies around the world simultaneously slowed as the COVID 19 virus impacted every corner of the planet over the past three months. This is unprecedented and has led to the fasted bear market (when stocks decline 20%) for stocks in the US. Over the next weeks and months, we expect record books to be rewritten as economic data declines faster than we have seen previously.
Read MoreHere is a summary of the critical legislation that went into effect on March 27, 2020. We’ve compiled the following review as a resource to find additional information on each of the program specifics. To see if you’re eligible for the benefits listed below, follow the links referenced. Please reach out if you need assistance determining which if any of these programs would be beneficial to you. We will do our best to update this information as new details present themselves.
Read MoreWe wanted to take a moment to give you an update on the current market conditions and our thinking.
We expect there to continue to be large daily moves in the stock markets until we see stability in the bond markets.
Bonds are normally boring investments, but in the current environment, there is above average volatility. Once this settles down, and it will, we should see less pronounced moves in stocks.
As we said last week in our note, we would likely trim some investments. There has been selling and some reallocating in your accounts. These are actions we have taken to raise some additional cash.
Read MoreWe wanted to share some updated thoughts with you about the continued sell off in the stock market. We understand that you are probably nervous and that is ok. Bear markets are not the fun part of investing, but things will recover.
Read MoreHome equity line of credits or HELOCs are usually thought of as a tool to pay for a kitchen remodel or to update a bathroom. Outside of this use, they can be an important component of your financial plan to provide greater financial flexibility. HELOCs can be a savvy cash management tool when used selectively. Given the low interest rate environment and the appreciation housing has seen, it is worth revisiting how a HELOC might fit into your financial plan.
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One of the essential steps in creating a life of financial stability is to create an emergency fund. There is nothing fun or exciting about emergency savings; it’s like insurance – boring, but necessary. You can think of your emergency savings like insurance for living your life.
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Markets around the globe experienced a surge in the fourth quarter. This move drove annual gains over 20% for the first time since 2017. Stocks were lifted by improving economic outlook, a potential resolution to the US/China trade war, and additional easing by central banks around the world. All major international markets posted a positive return in the quarter.
Read MoreStocks had their best annual performance since 2013 and bonds had their strongest year since 2003. This was the 7th best year for the S&P 500 since 1950. The rally in all asset classes can be attributed to a bounce back from the tough fourth quarter of 2018 as well as improving economic conditions, progress on the US-China trade front, and three cuts by the Federal Reserve (Fed).
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