Favorable economic data fuels risk assets as markets post solid gains during July. Key Observations Markets posted favorable returns in July as investors found renewed optimism in economic data being reported, even in the face of year-over-year earnings declines. The Federal Reserve raised rates in July, now targeting 5.25-5.5% for [...]

In 2022, consumer financial fraud reached alarming levels. Reported losses totaled nearly $8.8 billion,[1] which represented an increase of more than 30% over the previous year. Unfortunately, this frightening increase in fraud has been a consistent trend over the last five years.  Source:  Federal Trade Commission.  As of February 2018 [...]

All eyes remain on Congress as the June "x-date" approaches. Key Observations Market volatility persisted in May as investors tried to digest potential Fed policy action in June and the possibility of a U.S. default which was averted with a last minute deal. Most market indexes posted negative returns, with [...]

Key Observations Muted returns of broad market indexes for the month of April hide the churn underneath as the lagged and variable impact from higher rates take hold. Leading Economic Indicators (LEI) show more ardent anticipation of economic contraction. History would suggest four months or more of declining indicators is [...]

“By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail.” – Benjamin Franklin Yes, you’ve probably heard this quote before, and no, we don’t think that you don’t understand the importance of preparation. However, context is key. For example, consider someone who’s studying for an exam. As long as it’s not [...]

While markets retreat, the shift in rate expectations show signs the end of rate hikes is near. Key Observations Strong economic data pushed market expectations to 0.5% more rate hikes by year end. While perhaps overdone, this speaks to the end is near on rising rates. With 94% of S&P [...]

Filter out the noise and stay the course. Key Observations Broad asset classes rose higher off 2022 lows on cooling pricing pressures and the possibility of a Fed pause Equities abroad outperformed amid a declining U.S. dollar and higher than expected growth The U.S. debt ceiling has sparked conversation, however [...]

As we begin the new year, you have may seen rumblings of financial planning changes related to the new Secure Act 2.0 which was passed with the most recent spending bill. We have received enough questions where it made sense for us to start to disseminate some of our internal [...]

Signs of peaking inflation and the potential for central bank moderation in 2023 pushed equity markets higher in November. Key Observations Risk assets rallied on the back of softening inflation data and “Fed pause” mentality The Federal Reserve reiterated its commitment to combat inflation, but a pivoting tone hinted at [...]

Year-end is fast approaching, with the December holidays just around the corner. While the market malaise may be front-and-center on the minds of many, individuals should not overlook year-end planning opportunities which may provide meaningful benefits. We invite you to skim the topics below to see if any may be [...]