Economic & Market Report: Talk About the Passion

“Combien, combien, combien de temps?” –R.E.M., Talk About the Passion, 1983 It has been a difficult stretch for capital markets for a couple of months now.  And as we emerge from our Easter/Passover holiday weekend celebrations, investors are left to wonder how much longer will the turbulence that has enveloped capital markets persist as we continue through the spring and into …

Economic & Market Report: Battle Lines

It has been a tumultuous second quarter so far. After only nine trading days, we have seen U.S. stocks as measured by the S&P 500 plunge by more than -15% peak-to-trough in the wake of the “Liberation Day” tariff announcements, only to find their footing and battle their way back since. Although the tariffs for most countries have been paused …

Economic & Market Report: Liberation Day

Liberation Day has arrived for the United States.  Unlike in most other countries where it is celebrated in reflection of the end of a past war or the dawn of a new revolution, Liberation Day in the U.S. as it has come to be known is the declaration of promised tariffs to free the country from the import of foreign goods.

The Monday Minute: Budgeting for Life Changes

Life is full of changes—some exciting, some challenging, but all of them can have a significant impact on your finances. Whether you’re preparing for the birth of a child, coping with the loss of a loved one, navigating a job loss, or going through a divorce, it’s essential to adjust your budget to reflect these life transitions. Here’s how to …

Economic & Market Report: Deja Vu

“And I feel like I’ve been here before” -Deja Vu, Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, 1970 It’s been a tough time for the U.S. stock market as of late.  Over the last four weeks, the headline benchmark S&P 500 Index has fallen by just over -10% peak to trough.  And the bounce that has emerged over the past five trading …

The Monday Minute: Retirement Savings Options for Business Owners

As a business owner, planning for retirement can seem like an afterthought amidst the day-to-day demands of running a business. However, having the right retirement savings plan is crucial towards securing your financial future. Fortunately, there are several retirement savings options tailored specifically for business owners. SEP IRA (Simplified Employee Pension).  A SEP IRA is one of the easiest and most …

Economic & Market Report: The Bright Side

“Some things in life are bad, they can really make you mad  Other things just make you swear and curse. When you’re chewing on life’s gristle, don’t grumble, give a whistle And this’ll help things turn out for the best” -Always Look on the Bright Side of Life, Monty Python, 1979 The U.S stock market has certainly been bad lately.  …

Economic & Market Report: Tariffs: Listen to the Music

Talk about tariffs continue to pound the news headlines day after day.  Taxing imports on goods from other countries such as Canada, Mexico, and China have potential economic impacts that can be troubling for financial markets.  These include slower economic growth and the potential for recession as well as rising prices and the threat of high inflation.  Amid the turbulence, …

The Monday Minute: Borrowing Against Retirement Assets

Taking a loan against your retirement account might seem like an easy solution when you need quick cash, but it comes with significant risks that could jeopardize your financial future. Here’s some important things to consider when faced with this decision. First, when you borrow from your retirement account—like a 401(k) —you’re essentially borrowing from your future. While you’ll repay …

The Monday Minute: Pension Lump Sum vs Periodic Payments

When it comes time to retire, one of the biggest decisions some people face is how to access their pension funds. Two common offerings are a lump sum payout or periodic payments. Each has its advantages and possible disadvantages, so understanding them is essential for making the best choice for retirement. A lump sum payout offers immediate access to all …