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Market Update: Thurs, Dec 5, 2019

Market Update: Thurs, Dec 5, 2019 | LPL Financial Research Posted by lplresearch Daily Insights Stocks rebound. Stocks are up this morning, adding to the S&P 500 Index’s 0.6% gain on Wednesday. Trade sentiment has shifted once...

Reasons We Still Believe In December

Reasons We Still Believe In December Posted by lplresearch Market BlogDecember 4, 2019 It has been a rough start to the most wonderful month of them all, with the S&P 500 Index down each of the first two days of December. Don’t...

Market Update: Wed, Dec 4, 2019

Market Update: Wed, Dec 4, 2019 | LPL Financial Research Posted by lplresearch Daily Insights Stocks bounce back. Stocks are bouncing back this morning after they kicked off December with a two-day slide. The S&P 500 Index has dropped...

Bringing Markets Into Focus in Outlook 2020

Bringing Markets Into Focus in Outlook 2020 Posted by lplresearch Outlook 2020 BlogDecember 3, 2019 Hindsight is 20/20, but finding clarity in future uncertainty can be fuzzy. As we look forward to the year 2020 and a new decade, some...

What's your risk tolerance?

Debunking Common Retirement Assumptions

Debunking Common Retirement Assumptions Don’t fall for these misconceptions. Provided by Peter Livingston Financial generalizations are as old as time. Some have been around for decades, while others have only recently joined...

Creating a Retirement Strategy

Creating a Retirement Strategy Most people just invest for the future. You have a chance to do more. Provided by Peter Livingston Across the country, people are saving for that “someday” called retirement. Someday, their...

Market Update: Tues, Nov 26, 2019

Market Update: Tues, Nov 26, 2019 | LPL Financial Research Posted by lplresearch Daily Insights Stocks little changed. U.S. stocks are little changed this morning after the S&P 500 Index notched its 11th record high since the end of...

Cash Flow Management

Cash Flow Management An underappreciated fundamental in financial planning. Provided by Peter Livingston You’ve probably heard the saying that “cash is king,” and that truth applies whether you own a business or not....

Ways to Repair Your Credit Score

Ways to Repair Your Credit Score Steps to get your credit rating back toward 720. Provided by Peter Livingston We all know the value of a good credit score. We all try to maintain one. Sometimes, though, life throws us a financial...

Coping with College Loans

Coping with College Loans Paying them down and managing their financial impact. Provided by Peter Livingston Total student loan debt in America is now around $1.6 trillion. Since 2008, it has more than doubled. Federal Reserve data...

Measuring the Value of a Financial Advisor

Measuring the Value of a Financial Advisor One study asserts that these relationships can make a difference for investors. Provided by Brooke Graham What is a relationship with a financial advisor worth to an investor? A 2019 study by...

Fed Feeling Upbeat

Fed Feeling Upbeat Posted by lplresearch Economic BlogNovember 21, 2019 An upbeat economic outlook may be edging out elevated downside risks in the Federal Reserve’s (Fed) decision-making. Minutes from the Fed’s October...

Market Update: Thurs, Nov 21, 2019

Market Update: Thurs, Nov 21, 2019 | LPL Financial Research Posted by lplresearch Daily Insights Conflicting signals. U.S. stocks are little changed this morning as conflicting trade headlines pour in. The S&P 500 Index declined on...

Market Update: Wed, Nov 20, 2019

Market Update: Wed, Nov 20, 2019 | LPL Financial Research Posted by lplresearch Daily Insights On the Recession Watch. With the S&P 500 Index at record highs, our outlook remains optimistic, but we don’t want to be complacent....

A look back at 2019, thus far…

A look back at 2019, thus far… Presented by Peter Livingston The year in brief. 2019 brought three quarters of disagreement over trade issues between the U.S. and China… followed by fourth-quarter hints that a partial...

Your Year-End Financial Checklist

Your Year-End Financial Checklist Six aspects of your financial life to review as the year draws to a close. Provided by Peter Livingston The end of the year can help remind us of last-minute things we need to address and long-term...

What if You Get Audited?

What if You Get Audited? What the I.R.S. looks for and why. Provided by Peter Livingston “Audit” is a word that can strike fear into the hearts of taxpayers. However, the chances of an Internal Revenue Service audit...

Facts About Medicare Open Enrollment

Facts About Medicare Open Enrollment How much do you know about the different coverage options? Provided by Peter Livingston Medicare’s open enrollment period runs through December 7. If you are enrolling in Medicare for the...

Market Update: Tues, Nov 19, 2019

Market Update: Tues, Nov 19, 2019 | LPL Financial Research Posted by lplresearch Daily Insights On the Recession Watch. With the S&P 500 Index at record highs, our outlook remains optimistic, but we don’t want to be complacent....

Market Update: Mon, Nov 18, 2019

Market Update: Mon, Nov 18, 2019 | LPL Financial Research Posted by lplresearch Daily Insights Big week for retailers. Third quarter S&P 500 Index earnings growth is tracking to a 2.3% year-over-year decline, nearly 2 percentage...

Global Growth Stabilizing

Global Growth Stabilizing Posted by lplresearch Economic BlogNovember 14, 2019 The long wait may be over. No, we aren’t talking about a U.S.-China trade agreement, though that may come before the end of this year. The two sides...

Market Update: Thurs, Nov 14, 2019

Market Update: Thurs, Nov 14, 2019 | LPL Financial Research Posted by lplresearch Daily Insights Another record high. U.S. stocks are lower this morning, taking a step back after the S&P 500 Index’s seventh record high in three...

Market Update: Wed, Nov 13, 2019

Market Update: Wed, Nov 13, 2019 | LPL Financial Research Posted by lplresearch Daily Insights More negative headlines. U.S. stocks are lower this morning after President Donald Trump said on November 12 that the United States would...

Trust Deed Investments

Trust Deed Investments Though sometimes profitable, they also carry heavy risk. Provided by Peter Livingston Trust deeds may seem to be a fairly straightforward form of financial investment. You may have heard of them in passing...

Market Update: Tues, Nov 12, 2019

Market Update: Tues, Nov 12, 2019 | LPL Financial Research Posted by lplresearch Daily Insights Two Sides of One Economy. The S&P 500 Index gained for the fifth consecutive week, making many new all-time highs in the process. Positive...

Market Update: Mon, Nov 11, 2019

Market Update: Mon, Nov 11, 2019 | LPL Financial Research Posted by lplresearch Daily Insights Better than feared. With over 450 S&P 500 Index companies having reported, third quarter 2019 earnings growth is tracking to a 2.4%...

Reducing the Risk of Outliving Your Money

Reducing the Risk of Outliving Your Money What steps might help you sustain and grow your retirement savings? Provided by Peter Livingston “What is your greatest retirement fear?” If you ask any group of retirees and...

Top Year-End Investment Tips

Three tips on year-end giving 1. You may be able to sidestep capital gains taxes and get a deduction by making a charitable donation of securities that have risen in value but no longer fit your strategy. 2. If you make a charitable...

Productivity Growth Fades

Productivity Growth Fades Posted by lplresearch Economic BlogNovember 7, 2019 Stalled business spending is having ripple effects on U.S. company efficiency. Nonfarm productivity (output per worker) unexpectedly slid 0.3% in the third...

Bulls Stay in Motion

Bulls Stay in Motion Posted by lplresearch Market BlogNovember 5, 2019 “An object in motion tends to remain in motion along a straight line unless acted upon by an outside force.” Sir Isaac Newton What a year it has been...

Three and Done

Three and Done Posted by lplresearch Economic BlogOctober 31, 2019 The Federal Reserve (Fed) could be three and done with interest rate cuts. On October 30, the Fed reduced interest rates by 25 basis points (0.25%) in its third rate...

Market Update: Thurs, Oct 31, 2019

Market Update: Thurs, Oct 31, 2019 | LPL Financial Research Posted by lplresearch Daily Insights A Fed-fueled record high. Stocks are lower this morning after the S&P 500 Index closed at a record high yesterday. Pessimistic trade...

Spotting Credit Trouble

Spotting Credit Trouble How to check for problems. Provided by Peter Livingston Americans aged 45 to 54, who have credit card balances, carry an average debt of $9,096 per individual.1 The wise use of credit is a critical skill in...

Making Sense of a Home Warranty

Making Sense of a Home Warranty Are you covered for that? Provided by Peter Livingston As a consumer, when you purchase an expensive item, like a car or refrigerator, you expect to receive a warranty that the manufacturer will repair...

Cybersecurity

Cybersecurity Protecting yourself from potential calamity. Provided by Peter Livingston Cybercrime affects both large corporations and private individuals. You’ve likely read about the large data breaches in the business world....

The U.S. Economy Chugs Along

The U.S. Economy Chugs Along Posted by lplresearch Gross domestic product (GDP) growth slowed for a third quarter, but the U.S. economy is still chugging along at an average pace. GDP grew 1.9% in the third quarter, its slowest pace...

Market Update: Wed, Oct 30, 2019

Market Update: Wed, Oct 30, 2019 | LPL Financial Research Posted by lplresearch Daily Insights Busy day. Stocks are little changed this morning as investors digest third quarter gross domestic product (GDP) data before a Federal...

Market Update: Mon, Oct 28, 2019

Market Update: Mon, Oct 28, 2019 | LPL Financial Research Posted by lplresearch Daily Insights Earnings season producing modest–but many–upside surprises. With 200 S&P 500 Index companies having reported so far, third...

Reaching Retirement: Now What?

1When considering a rollover, to either an IRA or to another employer's retirement plan, you should consider carefully the investment options, fees and expenses, services, ability to make penalty-free withdrawals, degree of creditor...

Six Steps to Consider Before Tapping Your Retirement Savings Plan

Six Steps to Consider Before Tapping Your Retirement Savings Plan You've worked long and hard for years, saving diligently through your employer-sponsored retirement savings plan. Now, with retirement on the horizon, it's time to...

Market Update: Thurs, Oct 24, 2019

Market Update: Thurs, Oct 24, 2019 | LPL Financial Research Posted by lplresearch Daily Insights Stocks cheer positive headlines. Stocks are higher this morning amid an optimistic turn in global headlines. The European Central Bank...

2019 May Be One of the Best Years Ever

2019 May Be One of the Best Years Ever Posted by lplresearch Market BlogOctober 23, 2019 “Everything is awesome, when you’re living out a dream.” The Lego Movie As the S&P 500 Index continues to flirt with new record...

Market Update: Wed, Oct 23, 2019

Market Update: Wed, Oct 23, 2019 | LPL Financial Research Posted by lplresearch Daily Insights Stocks opened little changed. Global stocks are little changed this morning after a busy day for Brexit headlines, or talks around the...

Financial Basics for Millennials

Millennials face financial challenges that are unique to their generation. One of the first steps in overcoming them is to understand some basic financial concepts. Millennials are the largest living adult generation. Source:...

Buying a Home

Buying a Home Buying a HomeThere's no doubt about it--owning a home is an exciting prospect. After all, you've always dreamed of having a place that you could truly call your own. But buying a home can be stressful, especially when...

Another Brexit Delay Likely

Another Brexit Delay Likely Posted by lplresearch Economic BlogOctober 22, 2019 The United Kingdom’s (U.K.) withdrawal from the European Union (E.U.), or Brexit, is stumbling along, and another delay looks increasingly likely....

Market Update: Mon, Oct 21, 2019

Market Update: Mon, Oct 21, 2019 | LPL Financial Research Posted by lplresearch Daily Insights Earnings update. So far, U.S. earnings season has been generally in line with expectations. With 75 S&P 500 Index companies having reported...

End-of-the-Year Money Moves

End-of-the-Year Money Moves Here are some things you might consider before saying goodbye to 2019. Provided by Peter Livingston What has changed for you in 2019? Did you start a new job or leave a job behind? Did you retire? Did you...

Uncertainty Persists on Main Street

Uncertainty Persists on Main Street Posted by lplresearch Economic BlogOctober 17, 2019 Elevated uncertainty has persisted on Main Street, according to the Federal Reserve’s (Fed) latest Beige Book. In the Beige Book, the Fed...

Retirement Planning Key Numbers

Retirement Planning Key Numbers Retirement plan compensation limits 2018 2019 Maximum compensation per participant that can be used to calculate tax-deductible employer contribution (qualified plans/SEPs) $275,000 $280,000...

Don't Let Your Retirement Savings Goal Get You Down

According to the Employee Benefit Research Institute, just four in 10 workers say that they have tried to calculate how much they will need to retire comfortably. (Source: EBRI, 2018 Retirement Confidence Survey) Workers who are...

Market Update: Tues, Oct 15, 2019

Market Update: Tues, Oct 15, 2019 | LPL Financial Research Posted by lplresearch Daily Insights Earnings season kicks off. U.S. stocks are higher this morning as third quarter earnings season kicks off with a slew of big bank reports....

Market Update: Mon, Oct 14, 2019

Market Update: Mon, Oct 14, 2019 | LPL Financial Research Posted by lplresearch Daily Insights A verbal agreement. Friday, October 11, the U.S. announced that it had reached a verbal agreement with China, concluding two days of...

Market Update: Fri, Oct 11, 2019 | LPL Financial Research

Market Update: Fri, Oct 11, 2019 | LPL Financial Research Posted by lplresearch Daily Insights Global optimism. Stocks are up this morning as investors watch for any developments in U.S. and China officials’ face-to-face trade...

Overlooked Tax Deductions for Small-Business Owners

Overlooked Tax Deductions for Small-Business Owners Helpful tips for tax time. Provided by Peter Livingston Being a small-business owner isn’t easy. After all, balancing payroll, managing employees, drawing up marketing plans,...

Market Update: Thurs, Oct 10, 2019

Market Update: Thurs, Oct 10, 2019 | LPL Financial Research Posted by lplresearch Daily Insights Talks set to begin. Stocks are down this morning, taking a breather after a volatile start to the week. Investors have focused primarily...

China’s Growth Shows Signs of Stability

China’s Growth Shows Signs of Stability Posted by lplresearch Economic BlogOctober 09, 2019 The United States and China have faced growing economic pressure to reach a trade deal. However, the stress may be fading for one party....

Market Update: Wed, Oct 9, 2019

Market Update: Wed, Oct 9, 2019 | LPL Financial Research Posted by lplresearch Daily Insights A partial trade deal. Trade is dominating headlines once again, just a day before U.S. and China officials are slated to kick off...

Market Update: Tues, Oct 8, 2019

Market Update: Tues, Oct 8, 2019 | LPL Financial Research Posted by lplresearch Daily Insights One step back. U.S. stocks are sliding on renewed reports that the Trump administration is planning to restrict U.S. investors’...

Can The Economy Predict The Next President?

Can The Economy Predict The Next President? Posted by lplresearch Economic BlogOctober 08, 2019 “The economy, stupid” — Phrase campaign strategist James Carville used to help Bill Clinton get elected in 1992. As...

Raising Healthy Children

Raising Healthy Children Good habits can be formed early. Provided by Peter Livingston One of the greatest legacies any parent can give a child is a framework for living an enduring, healthy lifestyle. It is hard to underestimate the...

Market Update: Mon, Oct 7, 2019

Market Update: Mon, Oct 7, 2019 | LPL Financial Research Posted by lplresearch Daily Insights Trade pessimism. U.S. stocks are lower this morning on speculation that China may be increasingly reluctant to strike a trade deal....

Annual Financial To-Do List

Annual Financial To-Do List Things you can do for your future as the year unfolds. Provided by Peter Livingston What financial, business, or life priorities do you need to address for the coming year? Now is a good time to think about...

Labor Market Chugs Along

Labor Market Chugs Along Posted by lplresearch Market BlogOctober 04, 2019 The U.S. labor market keeps chugging along, despite signs of weakness in other pockets of the U.S. economy. Nonfarm payrolls rose 136,000 in September, and...

Welcome To The Fourth Quarter

Welcome To The Fourth Quarter Posted by lplresearch Market BlogOctober 03, 2019 Well, that wasn’t the start to the fourth quarter that the bulls wanted. The S&P 500 Index has dropped at least 1% on consecutive days to start the...

That First RMD from Your IRA

That First RMD from Your IRA What you need to know. Provided by Peter Livingston When you reach age 70½, the Internal Revenue Service instructs you to start making withdrawals from your traditional IRA(s). These withdrawals are...

Systematic Withdrawal Strategies

Systematic Withdrawal Strategies Should you arrange automatic distributions from your retirement or investment accounts? Provided by Peter Livingston Some retirees wish they could simplify money management. Estimating investment income...

The Solo 401(k)

The Solo 401(k) A retirement savings vehicle designed for the smallest businesses. Provided by Peter Livingston Do you work for yourself? Then take a look at the solo 401(k), which marries a traditional employee retirement savings...

Upside Down: What Does the Yield Curve Suggest About Growth?

The chart (below, right) shows a tale of two curves. The yield curve at the beginning of 2017 reflected strong optimism about future growth, while the curve on August 14, 2019, suggested a much more pessimistic outlook. Upside Down:...

Survey Details Back-to-School Spending for 2019

Roughly half of consumers plan their back-to-school shopping around major sales events. Source: 2019 NRF Back-to-School/College Spending Survey conducted by Prosper Insights & Analytics Survey Details Back-to-School Spending for 2019...

Data Breaches: Tips for Protecting Your Identity and Your Money

A data breach is an incident in which private, personal information is exposed, viewed without authorization, or stolen. Data Breaches: Tips for Protecting Your Identity and Your Money Large-scale data breaches are in the news again,...

The ABCs of Mutual Fund Share Classes

Do your homework · Before investing in a mutual fund, carefully consider its investment objectives, risks, fees, and expenses, which are contained in the prospectus available from the fund. Review the prospectus carefully...

Investing as a Couple: Getting to Yes

Coming to a general agreement on what your priorities are and roughly when you hope to achieve each one can greatly simplify the process of deciding how to invest. Making sure both spouses know how and (equally important) why their...

Eleven Ways to Help Yourself Stay Sane in a Crazy Market

Words to ponder "Investors should remember that excitement and expenses are their enemies. And if they insist on trying to time their participation in equities, they should try to be fearful when others are greedy and greedy when...

Insurance Needs when Married with Children

Insurance Needs when Married with Children Considering coverage for your household. Provided by Peter Livingston A growing family, by definition, means growing financial obligations – both in the present and in the future....

Your Extended Care Strategy

Your Extended Care Strategy Are you prepared for the possibility – and expense – of eldercare? Provided by Peter Livingston Do you have an extra $33,000 to $100,000 to spare this year? How about next year, and the year...

Cash Balance Plans

Cash Balance Plans More professional practices (and practice groups) should look into them. Provided by Peter Livingston In corporate America, pension plans are fading away. Only 16% of Fortune 500 companies offered them to full-time...

Leading Indicators Signal Growth Ahead

Leading Indicators Signal Growth Ahead Posted by lplresearch Economic Blog U.S. leading indicators rebounded in July, a good sign for the durability of the expansion. The Conference Board’s Leading Economic Index (LEI) rose 0.5%...

When Powell Speaks, Markets Listen

When Powell Speaks, Markets Listen Posted by lplresearch Market BlogAugust 26, 2019 When Federal Reserve (Fed) Chair Jerome Powell speaks, markets listen. Friday, August 23, the markets had a new opportunity to gauge the Fed’s...

Global vs. International: What’s the Difference?

Global vs. International: What’s the Difference? Global mutual funds vs. international mutual funds. Provided by Peter Livingston For investors who are looking to diversify their portfolio with exposure to companies located...

A Bucket Plan to Go with Your Bucket List

A Bucket Plan to Go with Your Bucket List A way to help you prepare. Provided by Peter Livingston The baby boomers redefined everything they touched, from music to marriage to parenting and even what “old” means – 60...

Technicals Support the Market

Technicals Support the Market Posted by lplresearch U.S.-China trade tensions have ratcheted up again following President Trump’s decision to level tariffs on the remaining $300 billion of U.S. imports from China. Combine that...

Your Diversified Portfolio vs. the S&P 500

Your Diversified Portfolio vs. the S&P 500 How global returns and proper diversification are affecting overall returns. Provided by Peter Livingston “Why is my portfolio underperforming the market?” This question may be on...

A Retirement Fact Sheet

A Retirement Fact Sheet Some specifics about the “second act.” Provided by Peter Livingston Does your vision of retirement align with the facts? Here are some noteworthy financial and lifestyle facts about life after 50...

Investing Basics

Investing Basics Saving and Investing Wisely The first step in investing is to secure a strong financial foundation. More Details Building on Your Foundation Before you invest money, you should spend time setting your personal goals...

CBO Report Looks at Effect of Raising the Federal Minimum Wage

What is the Congressional Budget Office? The Congressional Budget Office is a nonpartisan agency that produces independent analyses of budgetary and economic issues to support the congressional budget process. Each year, the agency's...

Thoughts on the Fed Rate Cut

Thoughts on the Fed Rate Cut Posted by lplresearch U.S. monetary policy has taken another U-turn. The Federal Reserve (Fed) announced a 25-basis point (0.25%) rate reduction July 31. As shown in the LPL Chart of the Day, The Federal...

Financials Appear Poised For a Strong Second Half

Financials Appear Poised For a Strong Second Half Posted by lplresearch After a disappointing start to the year, financials were the top performing sector in the second quarter. And technical analysis suggests they may have more room...

How Medigap Choices Are Changing

How Medigap Choices Are Changing Plan F is fading away, and Plan G may gain more popularity. Provided by Peter Livingston Soon, two types of Medigap policies will no longer be sold. Seniors who enroll in Medicare in 2020 or later will...

S&P 500 Hit Our Target—Time to Sell?

S&P 500 Hit Our Target—Time to Sell? Posted by lplresearch The S&P 500 Index is within 1% of our year-end fair value S&P 500 target of 3,000 after rallying 20% this year and broaching that target several times in July. We set...

401(k) Loan Repayment

401(k) Loan Repayment A longer repayment time can be an advantage. Provided by Peter Livingston The conventional wisdom about taking a loan from your 401(k) plan is often boiled down to: not unless absolutely necessary. That said, it...

Put it in a Letter

Put it in a Letter Express your wishes. Provided by Peter Livingston Actor Lee Marvin once said, “As soon as people see my face on a movie screen, they [know] two things: first, I’m not going to get the girl, and second,...

Eight Mistakes That Can Upend Your Retirement

Eight Mistakes That Can Upend Your Retirement Avoid these situations, if you can. Provided by Peter Livingston Pursuing your retirement dreams is challenging enough without making some common, and very avoidable, mistakes. Here are...

Will You Avoid These Estate Planning Mistakes?

Will You Avoid These Estate Planning Mistakes? Too many wealthy households commit these common blunders. Provided by Peter Livingston Many people plan their estates diligently, with input from legal, tax, and financial professionals....

Tax Moves to Consider in Summer

Tax Moves to Consider in Summer Now is a good time to think about a few financial matters. Provided by Peter Livingston Consider making tax moves earlier rather than later. If you own a business, earn significant investment income, are...

Investment Policy Statements

Investment Policy Statements What are they? Why are they important? Provided by Peter Livingston A self-fulfilling policy. An investment policy statement (IPS) is a document which helps the client and advisor stay “on the same...

Diversification, Patience, and Consistency

Diversification, Patience, and Consistency Three important factors when it comes to your financial life. Provided by Peter Livingston Regardless of how the markets may perform, consider making the following part of your investment...

Tax Efficiency

Tax Efficiency What it means; why it counts. Provided by Peter Livingston The after-tax return vs. the pretax return. Everyone wants their investments to perform well. But for many investors it’s their after-tax return that may...

LPL Midyear Outlook: Emerging Markets Pacing Global Growth

LPL Midyear Outlook: Emerging Markets Pacing Global Growth Posted by lplresearch We believe fundamentals are supportive of moderate gross domestic product (GDP) growth this year, as we discussed in our just-released Midyear Outlook...

Keep Calm, Stay On Plan

Keep Calm, Stay On Plan Expect volatility, but avoid letting the headlines alter your plans. Provided by Peter Livingston Recent headlines have added volatility to the markets. There will always be new headlines, and any of them could...

The Financial Realities of Longevity

The Financial Realities of Longevity Your financial future is up to you and no one else. Provided by Peter Livingston What will be your future? You know that solid retirement strategy takes your time horizon, an often unpredictable...

Weekly Market Drivers

Weekly Market Drivers | LPL Financial Research Posted by lplresearch Dovish Central Banks Propel Stocks to New Highs US: S&P 500 Index +2.2%, Dow +2.4%, Nasdaq +3.0%Europe: STOXX Europe 600 +1.6%, German DAX +2.0% France CAC 40 +3.0%,...

Can Stocks Really Gain 20% This Year?

Can Stocks Really Gain 20% This Year? Posted by lplresearch U.S. stocks could have a big year if LPL Research’s forecasts prove correct. All year, we’ve maintained our fair value target on the S&P 500 Index of 3,000,...

Cash Could Soon Be Kaput

Cash Could Soon Be Kaput The rise of mobile pay and what it might mean for your personal finances. The growth of mobile payments has far outpaced that of credit cards, making a cashless society much more likely in the near future....

The FIRE Movement

The FIRE Movement A radical new approach to working, saving, and retiring. Provided by Peter Livingston Retire before 50 and live your best life. That is the message of the FIRE (Financial Independence, Retire Early) movement, which is...

Helping Your Parents Manage Financial Tasks

Helping Your Parents Manage Financial Tasks How can you make things easier on them later in life? Provided by Peter Livingston Worldwide, the number of people aged 60 and older is growing. By 2050, this demographic will be more than...

The Gift Tax

The Gift Tax Not all gifts are taxable. Provided by Peter Livingston I’d like for you to meet my friend, Hugh. He’s a retired film stuntman who, after a long career, is enjoying his retirement. Some of what he’s...

Retiring Single

Retiring Single If you are retiring single, income replacement and staying socially engaged should be considerations. Provided by Peter Livingston About 6% of Americans 65 and older have never married. That statistic comes from a 2018...

Main Street’s Sentiment Improves

Main Street’s Sentiment Improves Posted by lplresearch In the Beige Book, the Fed presents qualitative observations made by community bankers and business owners—or “Main Street”—about economic (housing,...

Market Update: Thur, June 6, 2019

Market Update: Thur, June 6, 2019 | LPL Financial Research Posted by lplresearch Daily Insights Trade negotiations with Mexico continue. Progress has been made but “not nearly enough” according to President Trump, setting...

Smart Financial Moves in Your 20s, 30s, 40s, & 50s

Smart Financial Moves in Your 20s, 30s, 40s, & 50s Beneficial moves for every age. Provided by Peter Livingston Have you ever mapped out your financial timeline? If you’re like many Americans, it may have been more difficult than...

Is Your Company’s 401(k) Plan as Good as It Could Be?

Is Your Company’s 401(k) Plan as Good as It Could Be? A recent court ruling may make you want to double-check. Provided by Peter Livingston How often do retirement plan sponsors check up on 401(k)s? Some small businesses may not...

Financial Strategy for Athletes

Financial Strategy for Athletes Step One: Find a trusted financial coach; Step Two: Listen to your coach. Provided by Peter Livingston Whether you are a professional athlete, a college amateur, or an aspiring Olympian, you probably...

Market Update: Thurs, May 30, 2019

Market Update: Thurs, May 30, 2019 | LPL Financial Research Posted by lplresearch Daily Insights GDP’s first revision. Gross domestic product (GDP) rose 3.1% in the first quarter, according to the first revision, lower than the...

Time For A June Swoon?

Time For A June Swoon? Posted by lplresearch Well, it finally happened. The S&P 500 Index pulled back more than 5% from its all-time high, marking the first 5% pullback of 2019. As we have discussed many times over the past two months...

Market Update: Wed, May 29, 2019

Market Update: Wed, May 29, 2019 | LPL Financial Research Posted by lplresearch Daily Insights China may weaponize rare earths. Reports from Chinese media suggest China may be considering weaponizing rare earths as a retaliatory...

Market Update: Tue, May 28, 2019

Market Update: Tue, May 28, 2019 | LPL Financial Research Posted by lplresearch Daily Insights Stocks continue their slide. U.S. stocks continued their slide last week, as the S&P 500 Index fell for the third straight week. Global...

Checking In On The Five Forecasters

Checking In On The Five Forecasters Posted by lplresearch With the bull market 10 years old and the economic cycle about to reach 10 years, the big question is how much longer can it go? To answer this question we will take a closer...

The Problem of Money Paralysis

The Problem of Money Paralysis Not making a move may not always be the best move to make. Provided by Peter Livingston A decision not made may have financial consequences. Sometimes, we fall prey to a kind of money paralysis, in which...

Red Flags for Tax Auditors

Red Flags for Tax Auditors Here are six flags that could make your tax return prime for an I.R.S. audit. Provided by Peter Livingston No one wants to see an Internal Revenue Service (I.R.S.) auditor show up at their door. But in 2018,...

Do Millennial's Play a Role in America’s Future?

Do Millennial's Play a Role in America’s Future? Ronald Reagan once stated “Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction. We didn’t pass it to our children in the bloodstream. It must be fought for,...

Retirement and Adult Children

Retirement and Adult Children Supporting family can put a crimp in your strategy. Provided by Peter Livingston Families are one of the great joys in life, and part of the love you show to your family is making sure that their basic...

An Estate Strategy for Your Digital Assets

An Estate Strategy for Your Digital Assets What should you know? What should your executor know? Provided by Peter Livingston When you think about your estate, you may think about your personal property, real estate, or investments....

Stocks Stand Tall Against Headwinds

Stocks Stand Tall Against Headwinds Posted by lplresearch Renewed trade tensions have led to this latest bout of volatility. The recent drop in the S&P 500 Index felt worse because of how quickly it happened—from new highs to...

Compounding Interest: The 8th Wonder Of The World

Compounding Interest: The 8th Wonder Of The World Posted by lplresearch “Compounding interest is the eighth wonder of the world.” Albert Einstein When should you start investing? Yesterday is one of the best answers we can...

TOD or Living Trust?

TOD or Living Trust? A look at two basic methods for shielding assets from probate. Provided by Peter Livingston How do you keep assets out of probate? If that estate planning question is on your mind, you should know that there are...

The Shred Party

The Shred Party What should you get rid of and hold on to? When and why? Provided by Peter Livingston If a shred party happens to spring up in your area, you may want to mark your calendar. For many years, shred parties, where a...

The Chapters of Retirement

The Chapters of Retirement The five phases of life after 50 & the considerations that accompany them. Provided by Peter Livingston The journey to and through retirement occurs gradually, like successive chapters in a book. Each chapter...

Three Key Questions to Answer Before Taking Social Security

Three Key Questions to Answer Before Taking Social Security When to start? Should I continue to work? How can I maximize my benefit? Provided by Peter Livingston Social Security will be a critical component of your financial strategy...

Time to Sell in May? Part Deux

Time to Sell in May? Part Deux Posted by lplresearch As we noted earlier this week, these next six months historically have been the worst for stocks. That is why there’s a well-known investment axiom to “Sell in May and...

Market Update: Wed, May 1, 2019

Market Update: Wed, May 1, 2019 | LPL Financial Research Posted by lplresearch Daily Insights More new highs. The S&P 500 Index closed at a new all-time high for the third consecutive day, capping its best April since 2009. This is...

Rate Cut Bets on the Rise

Rate Cut Bets on the Rise Posted by lplresearch Markets have frequently underestimated Federal Reserve (Fed) actions over the last few years, but lately the skepticism has been striking. Fed fund futures traders are increasingly...

Market Update: Tue, Apr 30, 2019

Market Update: Tue, Apr 30, 2019 | LPL Financial Research Posted by lplresearch Daily Insights Inflation dips ahead of Fed meeting. March core personal consumption expenditures, the Federal Reserve’s (Fed) preferred inflation...

How to Roll Over Your Employer Retirement Plan Assets

Time to Sell in May?

Time to Sell in May? Posted by lplresearch One of the most popular investment axioms is about to take over the airwaves: “Sell in May and Go Away.” That’s because the upcoming six months(from May until the end of...

Market Update: Mon, Apr 29, 2019

Market Update: Mon, Apr 29, 2019 | LPL Financial Research Posted by lplresearch Daily Insights New high (lights). The S&P 500 Index completed a V-shaped recovery last week to register its first record high since September 20,...

The Cost of Procrastination

The Cost of Procrastination Don't let procrastination keep you from pursuing your financial goals. Provided by Peter Livingston Some of us share a common experience. You’re driving along when a police cruiser pulls up behind you...

Taking Charge of Your Financial Life

Taking Charge of Your Financial Life Delegating responsibilities to others may lead to problems down the road. Provided by Peter Livingston When you are putting together a household, it isn’t unusual to delegate responsibilities....

A Surprising End to a Perplexing Quarter

A Surprising End to a Perplexing Quarter Posted by lplresearch We’ve finally closed the book on a perplexing first quarter. Gross domestic product (GDP) rose 3.2% last quarter, as shown in the LPL Chart of the Day, the best...

10 Observations on New Highs

10 Observations on New Highs Posted by lplresearch We wrote about the new record high for the S&P 500 Index Wednesday . This is such a big market event we wanted to share some additional thoughts—10 of them in fact—on this...

The Waiting Game for Record Highs

The Waiting Game for Record Highs Posted by lplresearch The wait is over. After more than seven months, the S&P 500 Index notched a fresh all-time closing high of 2,933.68 on April 23. To get here, investors have weathered...

Market Update: Wed, Apr 24, 2019

Market Update: Wed, Apr 24, 2019 | LPL Financial Research Posted by lplresearch The wait is over. Yesterday, the S&P 500 Index notched a fresh all-time closing high of 2,933.68, while the Nasdaq Composite reached its own record high...

Signs of Steepening

Signs of Steepening Posted by lplresearch In March, we wrote that the Treasury yield curve was sound asleep. Since then, a quick inversion has jolted it awake. As shown in the LPL Chart of the Day, the spread between the 2-year and...

Market Update: Tues, Apr 23, 2019

Market Update: Tues, Apr 23, 2019 | LPL Financial Research Posted by lplresearch Hovering near new highs. U.S. stocks have stalled near record highs as investors sort through first-quarter earnings and a slowly improving global...

Digging Out of a Soft Patch

Digging Out of a Soft Patch Posted by lplresearch Leading data released recently have confirmed the U.S. economy could be digging out of its soft patch. As shown in the LPL Chart of the Day, the Conference Board’s Leading...

Market Update: Mon, Apr 22, 2019

Market Update: Mon, Apr 22, 2019 | LPL Financial Research Posted by lplresearch Daily Insights Less than 1% from all-time highs, now what? U.S. equity markets have staged a remarkable comeback over the course of 2019, and the S&P 500...

Weekly Market Drivers

Weekly Market Drivers | LPL Financial Research Posted by lplresearch Stocks Meander Through Holiday-Shortened Week. US: S&P 500 Index -0.1%, Dow +0.6%, Nasdaq +0.2%Europe: STOXX Europe 600 +0.8%, German DAX +1.9% France CAC 40 +1.4%,...

Ten Years, Tremendous Gains

Ten Years, Tremendous Gains A look at where stocks were in 2009 and how they have performed since. Provided by Peter Livingston Where were you on March 9, 2009? Do you remember the headwinds hitting Wall Street then? When the closing...

Do Our Biases Affect Our Financial Choices?

Do Our Biases Affect Our Financial Choices? Even the most seasoned investors are prone to their influence. Provided by Peter Livingston Investors are routinely warned about allowing their emotions to influence their decisions. They are...

Green Shoots on Main Street

Green Shoots on Main Street Posted by lplresearch We’ve talked a lot about green shoots in the U.S. economy recently. A slew of recent data is pointing to a rebound in growth from a disappointing first quarter hampered by global...

Market Update: Thurs, Apr 18, 2019

Market Update: Thurs, Apr 18, 2019 | LPL Financial Research Posted by lplresearch Daily Insights Healthcare continues to exhibit weakness. While the S&P 500 Index remains less than 2% from all-time highs, the second largest sector...

What’s Priced In?

What’s Priced In? Posted by lplresearch After such a strong rally this year, you may be wondering what could drive stocks higher from here. With the S&P 500 Index near its all-time high, a lot of good news could be priced in to...

Market Update: Wed, Apr 17, 2019

Market Update: Wed, Apr 17, 2019 | LPL Financial Research Posted by lplresearch Daily Insights Another round of upbeat China data. Targeted stimulus appears to be working following a series of better-than-expected data that included...

Too High or Too Low?

Too High or Too Low? Posted by lplresearch The U.S. inflation narrative has flipped, which has caused some bond-market angst recently. Deteriorating global conditions have shifted the economic landscape and fueled concerns that...

Market Update: Tue, Apr 16, 2019

Market Update: Tue, Apr 16, 2019 | LPL Financial Research Posted by lplresearch Daily Insights Global rate rally. Long-term rates have rallied around the world recently, likely in response to a Brexit delay, progress in trade talks,...

Market Update: Mon, Apr 15, 2019

Market Update: Mon, Apr 15, 2019 | LPL Financial Research Posted by lplresearch Daily Insights Weekly Market Drivers: Last week’s market drivers included solid U.S. labor market data, the unofficial start of first quarter...

Teaching Your Heirs to Value Your Wealth

Teaching Your Heirs to Value Your Wealth Values can help determine goals & a clear purpose. Provided by Peter Livingston Some millionaires are reluctant to talk to their kids about family wealth. Perhaps they are afraid of what their...

Could Social Security Really Go Away?

Could Social Security Really Go Away? That may be unlikely, but the program does face financial challenges. Provided by Peter Livingston Will Social Security run out of money in the 2030s? You may have heard warnings about this dire...

Sectors to Watch This Earnings Season

Sectors to Watch This Earnings Season Posted by lplresearch First quarter earnings season begins this week with some big banks reporting on Friday. While we think profit growth will finish around flat overall, an improving macro...

Market Update: Thurs, Apr 11, 2019 | LPL Financial Research

Market Update: Thurs, Apr 11, 2019 | LPL Financial Research Posted by lplresearch Daily Insights Brexit decision delayed-again. Last night EU leaders approved a six-month delay for a Brexit decision, through October 31, though an...

The December Low Indicator Has Bulls Smiling

The December Low Indicator Has Bulls Smiling Posted by lplresearch After the best first quarter for the S&P 500 Index since 1998, the big question is: What happens next? We’ve already discussed why a good start to a year could...

Market Update: Wed, Apr 10, 2019

Market Update: Wed, Apr 10, 2019 | LPL Financial Research Posted by lplresearch Daily Insights ECB left interest rates unchanged. In a surprise to no one, the European Central Bank (ECB) left rates unchanged and reiterated its plans...

The Yield Curve’s “False Positive”

The Yield Curve’s “False Positive” Posted by lplresearch March’s yield curve commotion now looks like the first “false positive” of this expansion. While a prolonged yield curve inversion, or...

Market Update: Tue, Apr 9, 2019

Market Update: Tue, Apr 9, 2019 | LPL Financial Research Posted by lplresearch Daily Insights Long-term rates sprouting. Last week, the 10-year Treasuryyield posted its biggest gain since the beginning of March, rising nine basis...

Lucky Number Seven

Lucky Number Seven Posted by lplresearch Seven has been a lucky number for U.S. stocks. The S&P 500 Index just notched its first seven-day winning streak since October 2017. As shown in the LPL Chart of the Day, this feat has occurred...

Market Update: Mon, Apr 8, 2019

Market Update: Mon, Apr 8, 2019 | LPL Financial Research Posted by lplresearch Daily Insights First quarter earnings season kicks off this week and the bar seems low. Consensus estimates for first quarter earnings season are calling...

The Retirement We Imagine, the Retirement We Live

The Retirement We Imagine, the Retirement We Live Examining the potential differences between assumption and reality. Provided by Peter Livingston Financially speaking, retirement might differ from your expectations. Just as few...

Why Does the Wage Gap Between Men & Women Persist?

Why Does the Wage Gap Between Men & Women Persist? While it has narrowed, a notable inequality remains. Provided by Peter Livingston First, what wage gap are we talking about? There is a commonly cited statistic that American women...

Weekly Market Drivers | LPL Financial Research

Weekly Market Drivers | LPL Financial Research Posted by lplresearch Second Quarter Kicks Off With Flowers, Not Showers. US: S&P 500 Index +2.1%, Dow +1.9%, Nasdaq +2.7%Europe: STOXX Europe 600 +2.4%, German DAX +4.2% France CAC 40 +2...

Market Update: Fri, Apr 5, 2019

Market Update: Fri, Apr 5, 2019 | LPL Financial Research Posted by lplresearch Daily Insights S&P looks to continue winning streak. Yesterday’s modest gain for the S&P 500 Index gave the index its sixth consecutive higher close,...

Jobs Rebound in March

Jobs Rebound in March Posted by lplresearch Job growth rebounded strongly in March, allaying concerns that a February slowdown was signaling the possibility of extended economic weakness. Nonfarm payrolls rose 196,000 in March,...

Fed Patience Tops Our Economic Final Four

Fed Patience Tops Our Economic Final Four Posted by lplresearch Wall Street is watching a litany of telling economic and market signals, but the rest of the country is watching the NCAA men’s and women’s college basketball...

Market Update: Thurs, Apr 4, 2019

Market Update: Thurs, Apr 4, 2019 | LPL Financial Research Posted by lplresearch Daily Insights March global manufacturing surveys point to stable overseas growth. Markit’s global manufacturing PMI was unchanged at 50.6 in March...

What Happens When January, February, and March Are All Higher?

What Happens When January, February, and March Are All Higher? Posted by lplresearch What a start to 2019! The S&P 500 Index had its best first quarter since 1998—gaining 13.1%. Taking a deeper look at the data reveals another...

Market Update: Wed, Apr 4, 2019

Market Update: Wed, Apr 4, 2019 | LPL Financial Research Posted by lplresearch Daily Insights China, Eurozone PMIs ease global growth fears. Services data out of China and the Eurozone allayed some jitters after March PMIs for both...

Cooking at Home vs. Eating Out

Cooking at Home vs. Eating Out Who doesn’t like to eat out here in Mooresville, North Carolina? From great options such as Carusos, Epic Chophouse, Kindred in Davidson, and Hello Sailor on Lake Norman. Even if it is once in...

The U.S. Debt Binge

The U.S. Debt Binge Posted by lplresearch U.S. bond bulls are winning in the global search for yield. As shown in the LPL Chart of the Day, negative-yielding debt around the world has grown to $10.4 trillion, its highest point since...

Market Update: Tue, Apr 2, 2019

Market Update: Tue, Apr 2, 2019 | LPL Financial Research Posted by lplresearch Daily Insights The U.S. debt binge. U.S. bond bulls are winning in the global search for yield. Negative-yielding debt has climbed to $10.4 trillion, its...

April’s Bullish History

April’s Bullish History Posted by lplresearch Seasonality could be on the bull’s side, especially after U.S. stocks’ best first quarter in 20 years. As shown in the LPL Chart of the Day, April has consistently been...

Market Update: Mon, Apr 1, 2019

Market Update: Mon, Apr 1, 2019 | LPL Financial Research Posted by lplresearch Daily Insights Chinese manufacturing unexpectedly rebounds. Two separate reports showed that manufacturing activity in China expanded month over month and...

What we’re reading this week.

What we’re reading this week. Here’s a list of articles we came across from numerous news publications this week, maybe one or two may have some interest to you. The Motley Fool identifies 3 reasons not to rely too heavily...

Earnings for All Seasons

Earnings for All Seasons What is it and why is it important? Provided by Peter Livingston While nature offers four seasons, Wall Street offers only one – four times a year. It’s called “earnings season,” and it...

Behind on Your Retirement Savings?

Behind on Your Retirement Savings? What steps could you take to try and catch up? Provided by Peter Livingston If life has not allowed you to build substantial retirement savings, what possible steps could you take in an effort to...

Weekly Market Drivers

Weekly Market Drivers | LPL Financial Research Posted by lplresearch Stocks Rebound Despite Continued Downward Pressure on Rates US: S&P 500 Index +1.2%, Dow +1.7%, Nasdaq +1.1%Europe: STOXX Europe 600 +0.8%, German DAX +1.4% France...

What Does A Big First Quarter Mean?

What Does A Big First Quarter Mean? Posted by lplresearch With a day to go, this is one of the best first quarters for the S&P 500 Index ever. Of course, it comes on the heels of the worst fourth quarter since the financial crisis and...

The S&P 500 Index is on pace for one of its best first-quarter returns ever

Market Update: Fri, Mar 29, 2019 | LPL Financial Research Posted by lplresearch Daily Insights Big Q1. The S&P 500 Index is on pace for one of its best first-quarter returns ever, and history suggests more gains could follow. Going...

Market Update: Thurs, Mar 28, 2019

Market Update: Thurs, Mar 28, 2019 | LPL Financial Research Posted by lplresearch Daily Insights Global valuation check-in. Developed international equities have gotten relatively cheaper following recent underperformance compared...

11 Things You Need To Know About The Yield Curve

11 Things You Need To Know About The Yield Curve Posted by lplresearch Well, it finally happened—the yield curve inverted. Now note that it was the shorter end of the curve that inverted, as the 3-month Treasury bill (and 1-year...

Good News Indicators

Good News Indicators Posted by lplresearch The Conference Board’s Leading Economic Index (LEI) is one of our favorite economic indicators. It is designed to predict future movements in the economy based on a composite of 10...

Market Update: Wed, Mar 27, 2019

Market Update: Wed, Mar 27, 2019 | LPL Financial Research Posted by lplresearch Daily Insights Trade deficit shrinks as U.S.-China talks set to resume. Monthly U.S. figures showed the trade deficit narrowed in January to $51.1B, while...

March Madness for Yields

March Madness for Yields Posted by lplresearch Bonds are sending a potentially ominous signal about the U.S. economy. The 10-year Treasury yield fell below the 3-month Treasury yield on March 22 for the first time since August 2007....

Market Update: Tue, Mar 26, 2019

Market Update: Tue, Mar 26, 2019 | LPL Financial Research Posted by lplresearch Daily Insights Fed presidents comment on yield curve inversion, balance sheet plans. Chicago Federal Reserve (Fed) president Evans acknowledged...

Social Security Matters

Here we provide you with a curated list of public resources which are educational in nature and meant to help you find the information you are looking for regarding Social Security Benefits. General information on Social Security...

Bringing Domestic Equities Recommendation Back to Market Weight

Bringing Domestic Equities Recommendation Back to Market Weight Posted by lplresearch Stocks have had quite a run since the December 24 lows, with the S&P 500 Index up 19% to within 5% of last year’s record highs. Given this...

Market Update: Mon, Mar 25, 2019

Market Update: Mon, Mar 25, 2019 | LPL Financial Research Posted by lplresearch Daily Insights We are bringing our recommended domestic equity allocation back to market weight. Stocks have had quite a run this year, with the S&P 500...

Are You Committing These Financial Illegalities?

Are You Committing These Financial Illegalities? Some people make money moves that may get them in trouble. Provided by Peter Livingston Americans do many things with their money and invested assets, most of them on the up and up....

Yes, Young Growing Families Can Save & Invest

Yes, Young Growing Families Can Save & Invest It may seem like a tall order, but it can be accomplished. Provided by Peter Livingston Put yourself steps ahead of your peers. If you have a young, growing family, no doubt your to-do list...

Are You Retiring Within the Next 5 Years?

Are You Retiring Within the Next 5 Years? What should you focus on as the transition approaches? Provided by Peter Livingston You can prepare for your retirement transition years before it occurs. In doing so, you can do your best to...

What we’re reading this week.

What we’re reading this week. Here’s a list of articles we came across from numerous news publications this week, maybe one or two may have some interest to you. The Motley Fool identifies 3 major money risks that tend to...

Working a Little After You Retire

Working a Little After You Retire What should you remember as you look for a job?Finding work at age 60 or 65 is decidedly harder than finding work at 30 or 35. It can be done, but there are key things tokeep in mind. You should be...

Stocks Drop, Yield Curve Inverts on Renewed Global Growth Concerns.

Weekly Market Drivers | LPL Financial Research Posted by lplresearch Stocks Drop, Yield Curve Inverts on Renewed Global Growth Concerns. US: S&P 500 Index -0.8%%, Dow -1.3%, Nasdaq -0.6%Europe: STOXX Europe 600 -1.3%, German DAX -2.8%...

Market Update: Fri, Mar 22, 2019

Market Update: Fri, Mar 22, 2019 | LPL Financial Research Posted by lplresearch Daily Insights Markets rally Thursday, look to end week on high note. One day after the Federal Reserve (Fed) doubled down on its “patient”...

Market Update: Thurs, Mar 21, 2019

Market Update: Thurs, Mar 21, 2019 | LPL Financial Research Posted by lplresearch Daily Insights The Fed on Reserve. The Federal Reserve (Fed) doubled down on its patient stance in yesterday’s rate announcement, as policymakers...

The Fed on Reserve

The Fed on Reserve Posted by lplresearch The Federal Reserve (Fed) has doubled down on its patient stance. Policymakers signaled a complete pause in policy at the conclusion of the Fed’s March meeting, with a nod to a slowing...

Time For New Highs?

Time For New Highs? Posted by lplresearch After dropping nearly 20% late last year, the S&P 500 Index has officially bounced up more than 20% from the December 24 lows. As we noted at the time, most bear markets that take place in a...

Market Update: Wed, Mar 20, 2019

Market Update: Wed, Mar 20, 2019 | LPL Financial Research Posted by lplresearch Daily Insights Awaiting the Fed. The Federal Reserve (Fed) concludes its two-day policy meeting this afternoon. Though no rate hike is expected, investors...

Thinking about early retirement?

Retirement: a state of mind Don't underestimate the psychological issues involved in deciding when to retire. Many people welcome the opportunity to reinvent themselves. Others postpone retirement or return to some form of work so...

The Fed’s High Hurdle

The Fed’s High Hurdle Posted by lplresearch Today, the Federal Reserve (Fed) kicks off its second two-day meeting of 2019, and financial markets have high expectations for the outcome. The Fed will likely hold steady on the...

Market Update: Tue, Mar 19, 2019

Market Update: Tue, Mar 19, 2019 | LPL Financial Research Posted by lplresearch Daily Insights The Fed’s high hurdle. Today, the Federal Reserve (Fed) kicks off its second two-day meeting of 2019, and market participants are...

Time For a Small Break?

Time For a Small Break? Posted by lplresearch Small cap stocks staged a furious rally to kick off 2019, with the Russell 2000 Index up nearly 18% year to date at the early March peak. Of course, you may remember that small caps were...

Market Update: Mon, Mar 18, 2019

Market Update: Mon, Mar 18, 2019 | LPL Financial Research Posted by lplresearch Daily Insights Large caps may be better positioned than small caps given where we are in the business cycle. Small cap stocks have performed well so far...

The Millennial Guide for Apps

We all know, more or less, who millennial's are: We’re obsessed with sushi and our dogs, we’ve grown up socializing on the Internet, we also prefer to order food off an app rather calling in a To-Go order. The actual years...

Gradual Retirement

Gradual Retirement Not everyone retires the same way – or at the same pace. Provided by Peter Livingston Are you in a hurry to retire? Not everyone is rushing to that particular finish line. According to the 2018 retirement...

Long-Term Investing Truths

Long-Term Investing Truths Key lessons for retirement savers. Provided by Peter Livingston You learn lessons as you invest in pursuit of long-run goals. Some of these lessons are conveyed and reinforced when you begin saving for...

Stocks Resume Upward Momentum, Dow Lags on Boeing’s Woes.

Weekly Market Drivers | LPL Financial Research Posted by lplresearch Stocks Resume Upward Momentum, Dow Lags on Boeing’s Woes. US: S&P 500 Index +2.9%, Dow +1.6%, Nasdaq +3.8%Europe: STOXX Europe 600 +2.8%, German DAX +2.0%...

Market Update: Friday, Mar 15, 2019

Market Update: Friday, Mar 15, 2019 | LPL Financial Research Posted by lplresearch Daily Insights S&P 500 gives resistance another try. With the S&P 500 Index’s move higher this morning, it appears to finally be taking out the...

Will Brexit Go on Forever, Like Pi?

Will Brexit Go on Forever, Like Pi? Posted by lplresearch The Brexit saga seems like it has no end—sort of like the digits of pi as we celebrate National Pi Day today. On Tuesday, March 12, U.K. Prime Minister Theresa May...

Market Update: Thursday, Mar 14, 2019

Market Update: Thursday, Mar 14, 2019 | LPL Financial Research Posted by lplresearch Daily Insights China trade deal coming together. The latest news out of Washington, D.C., continues to point to an agreement fairly soon, one of the...

What Type of Pullback Could We See?

What Type of Pullback Could We See? Posted by lplresearch The S&P 500 Index corrected nearly 20% from the September peak until December 24 before staging a furious rally of 19%. What could happen next? A well-deserved pullback would...

Market Update: Wednesday, Mar 13, 2019

Market Update: Wednesday, Mar 13, 2019 | LPL Financial Research Posted by lplresearch Daily Insights Durable goods orders up, producer prices dip. Headline durable goods orders rose for a third consecutive month in January, down from...

Waking Up the Yield Curve

Waking Up the Yield Curve Posted by lplresearch The Federal Reserve (Fed) heard the market’s alarm and shifted its stance, but the U.S. yield curve hasn’t woken up yet. As shown in the LPL Chart of the Day, the spread...

Market Update: Tuesday, Mar 12, 2019

Market Update: Tuesday, Mar 12, 2019 | LPL Financial Research Posted by lplresearch Daily Insights Inflation remains contained. Readings on the Consumer Price Index (CPI) for February were largely as expected. The 1.5% year-over-year...

The Importance of TOD & JTWROS Designations

The Importance of TOD & JTWROS Designations A convenient move that could ward off probate on your accounts. Provided by Peter Livingston TOD, JTWROS – what do these obscure acronyms signify? They are shorthand for transfer on...

Main Street’s Sentiment Falls to 7-Year Low

Main Street’s Sentiment Falls to 7-Year Low Posted by lplresearch Pessimism has rapidly infiltrated Main Street’s outlook, according to the latest Federal Reserve (Fed) Beige Book. LPL Research maintains a straightforward...

Market Update: Monday, Mar 11, 2019

Market Update: Monday, Mar 11, 2019 | LPL Financial Research Posted by lplresearch Daily Insights China exports surged in early March, according to China. Official data released over the weekend showed that exports surged 39.9% year...

Qualified Charitable Distributions

Qualified Charitable Distributions When you reach age 70½, they can be a new way of giving. Provided by Peter Livingston As the owner of a traditional IRA, you are likely aware that you are obligated to make required minimum...

Your Financial Strategy

Your Financial Strategy Like a chess grandmaster, it’s worth thinking a few moves ahead. Provided by Peter Livingston Thinking about retirement might seem unpleasant. As you budget your monthly bills, you might feel as if you...

Weekly Market Drivers

Global growth concerns outweigh positive trade developments, sending stocks deep into the red.

Don’t Fret About the February Jobs Report

Don’t Fret About the February Jobs Report Posted by lplresearch February’s smaller-than-expected jobs gain may put investors on edge, but underlying details show there isn’t much to fret about. Nonfarm payrolls rose...

10 Years And Counting

10 Years And Counting Posted by lplresearch This Saturday, March 9, 2019, marks the 10-year anniversary of the end to the worst bear market for U.S. stocks since the Great Depression. Although at that time no one could have imaged...

Market Update: Wed, Mar 7, 2019

Market Update: Wed, Mar 7, 2019 | LPL Financial Research Posted by lplresearch Daily Insights ECB changes guidance, acknowledges weaker economy. In what we would call a bit of a surprise, the European Central Bank (ECB) this morning...

The Nasdaq’s 10 Weeks of Green

The Nasdaq’s 10 Weeks of Green Posted by lplresearch U.S. stocks’ recent momentum has been historically impressive by many measures, and the Nasdaq Composite Index notched another milestone last week. The Nasdaq has risen...

Market Update: Wed, Mar 6, 2019

Market Update: Wed, Mar 6, 2019 | LPL Financial Research Posted by lplresearch Daily Insights New business drives growth in U.S. services sector. The ISM non-manufacturing index showed that activity in February came in at a very...

A Historic Quiet for Rates

A Historic Quiet for Rates Posted by lplresearch Treasury yields have been historically quiet this year. As shown in the LPL Chart of the Day, the 10-year Treasury yield has bounced around in a 23-basis point (bps) (.23%) range year...

Market Update: Tue, Mar 5, 2019

Market Update: Tue, Mar 5, 2019 | LPL Financial Research Posted by lplresearch Daily Insights Credit leads fixed income sectors over past month. With interest rates moving higher over the past month, accompanied by a...

Slow, But Steady

Slow, But Steady Posted by lplresearch Slow but steady growth may win the race again as the economic expansion nears the 10-year mark. While muted growth in the current economic expansion has been frustrating at times, especially...

Market Update: Mon, Mar 4, 2019

Market Update: Mon, Mar 4, 2019 | LPL Financial Research Posted by lplresearch Daily Insights Earnings picked up a bit of ground last week. With 484 S&P 500 Index companies having reported, fourth quarter 2018 earnings growth is...

Midlife Money Errors

Midlife Money Errors If you are between 40 & 60, beware of these financial blunders & assumptions. Provided by Peter Livingston Mistakes happen, even for people who have some life experience under their belt. That said, your retirement...

Have You Budgeted for Retirement?

Have You Budgeted for Retirement? Creating a strategy for success. Provided by Peter Livingston Run the numbers. There is a rule of thumb for retirees suggesting that retirement income has a target of 70-80% of the household’s...

March Higher?

March Higher? Posted by lplresearch “March comes in like a lion, and goes out like a lamb.” What a start to 2019, with the S&P 500 Index up 11.1% after the first two months of 2019 for its best start to a year since 1991....

Market Update: Fri, Mar 1, 2019

Market Update: Fri, Mar 1, 2019 | LPL Financial Research Posted by lplresearch Daily Insights Here comes March. The S&P 500 Index is off to its best start to a year after the first two months since 1991 (and 1987 for the Dow), and...

Consumer, Business Spending Propel Solid GDP Growth

Consumer, Business Spending Propel Solid GDP Growth Posted by lplresearch After a month-long delay, investors finally have crucial context on economic growth through the end of 2018. As shown in the LPL Chart of the Day, fourth...

Market Update: Thurs, Feb 28, 2019

Market Update: Thurs, Feb 28, 2019 | LPL Financial Research Posted by lplresearch Daily Insights China, Japan feeling the effects of U.S.-imposed tariffs. In China, official Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) data showed...

Market Update: Wed, Feb 27, 2019

Market Update: Wed, Feb 27, 2019 | LPL Financial Research Posted by lplresearch Daily Insights Powell day-one testimony takeaways. In the first of two-days of testimony before Congress, Federal Reserve (Fed) Chairman Jerome Powell...

Why A Green January and February Have Bulls Smiling

Why A Green January and February Have Bulls Smiling Posted by lplresearch After gaining 7.8% in January, the S&P 500 Index has added another 3.3% so far in February for a grand total year-to-date return of 11.4%. With two days to go,...

Investment-Grade Debt Shines as Fixed Income Sweet Spot

Investment-Grade Debt Shines as Fixed Income Sweet Spot Posted by lplresearch Over the past three months, investment-grade (IG) corporate debt has posted its strongest rally in more than two years as investors look for the sweet spot...

Market Update: Tue, Feb 26, 2019

Market Update: Tue, Feb 26, 2019 | LPL Financial Research Posted by lplresearch Daily Insights Historically quiet rate environment. It’s been a quiet year for interest rates as fixed income traders reconcile a Federal Reserve...

Maintaining Your Financial Records: The Importance of Being Organized

Maintaining Your Financial Records: The Importance of Being Organized An important part of managing your personal finances is keeping your financial records organized. Whether it's a utility bill to show proof of residency or a Social...

About That Dow 9-Week Win Streak

About That Dow 9-Week Win Streak Posted by lplresearch The strong move in stocks continues. The S&P 500 Index has risen nearly 19% (as of February 22) from the December 24 lows, and the Dow Jones Industrial Average (Dow) has posted an...

Market Update: Mon, Feb 25, 2019

Market Update: Mon, Feb 25, 2019 | LPL Financial Research Posted by lplresearch Daily Insights President delays tariff increase amid “substantial progress.” In a widely-expected move, President Trump indicated that tariff...

Bad Money Habits to Break

Bad Money Habits to Break Behaviors worth changing. Provided by Peter Livingston Do bad money habits constrain your financial progress? Many people fall into the same financial behavior patterns, year after year. If you sometimes...

Is America Prepared to Retire?

Is America Prepared to Retire? A look at some ways to get ready. Provided by Peter Livingston Are Americans saving enough? Only 19% of U.S. adults describe themselves as “very confident” when asked about their savings....

Weekly Market Drivers

Weekly Market Drivers | LPL Financial Research Posted by lplresearch Trade Progress Buoys Markets Amid Lackluster Economic Data US: S&P 500 Index +0.6%, Dow +0.6%, Nasdaq +0.7%Europe: STOXX Europe 600 +0.6%, German DAX +1.4% France...

When Is Overbought Bullish?

When Is Overbought Bullish? What more can we say about the amazing rebound of the stock market since December 24? For the first time since 1997, the S&P 500 Index is up more than 10% for the year through this point in February. Of...

More Good News

More Good News As this week’s Weekly Market Commentary suggested, over the near term equities appear quite stretched, but overall we continue to think the bull market has plenty of life left. Today, we’ll take a look at...

Trimming Our 2019 GDP Forecast

Trimming Our 2019 GDP Forecast Economic data have consistently missed expectations recently as investors and Wall Street have struggled to quantify the impact of global trade and political risks. As shown in the LPL Chart of the Day,...

Social Security by the Numbers

Social Security by the Numbers Facts about the federal Old-Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance (OASDI) program. Provided by Peter Livingston Social Security has been a pillar of retirement life for several decades, but how much do...

Changing Our 10-Year Yield Forecast

Changing Our 10-Year Yield Forecast Economic growth could be lower than we initially expected this year, which could weigh on long-term rates. We’ve seen enough evidence recently to think 2019 gross domestic product (GDP) growth...

Should Investors Love A Great Start to 2019?

Should Investors Love A Great Start to 2019? Happy Valentine’s Day everyone! With the S&P 500 Index up 9.8% for the year as of yesterday, this is its best start up to this point since 1991. So should investors love to see this...

Charitable Contribution Limits

Charitable Contribution Limits What are the limits for Donor-Advised Funds and Private Foundations? Provided by Peter Livingston Among the big changes in the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) were new limits on standard and itemized...

A Steep Drop in Confidence

A Steep Drop in Confidence Four months ago, the Conference Board’s Consumer Confidence Index reached an 18-year high. Since then, consumer sentiment has deteriorated rapidly, leading some investors to wonder if a drop in...

Your Emergency Fund: How Much is Enough?

Your Emergency Fund: How Much is Enough? An emergency fund may help alleviate the stress associated with a financial crisis. Provided by Peter Livingston Have you ever had one of those months? The water heater stops heating, the...

Before You Claim Social Security

Before You Claim Social Security A few things you may want to think about before filing for benefits. Provided by Peter Livingston Whether you want to leave work at 62, 67, or 70, claiming the retirement benefits you are entitled to by...

Coping With the Shutdown

Coping With the Shutdown A look at who is affected, and the potential economic impact. Provided by Peter Livingston Right now, many households across the country are contending with the financial pressures resulting from the partial...

Traditional vs. Roth IRAs

Traditional vs. Roth IRAs Perhaps both traditional and Roth IRAs can play a part in your retirement plans. Provided by Peter Livingston IRAs can be an important tool in your retirement savings belt, and whichever you choose to open...

Understanding Homeowners Insurance

Understanding Homeowners Insurance What all new and prospective homeowners need to know. Provided by Peter Livingston If you arrange a mortgage, your lender will want you to have homeowners insurance. This coverage is critical for...

How Warren Buffet Approaches Market Volatility

Warren Buffett, widely considered the world’s greatest investor wrote about the manic-depressive Mr. Market in his 1987 letter to shareholders. I think it’s timely to forward this along as volatility has been crazy lately....

Putting a Price Tag on Your Health

Putting a Price Tag on Your Health Being healthy not only makes you feel good, it may also help you financially. Provided by Peter Livingston We constantly hear how important it is to maintain a healthy lifestyle. That is not always...

Ways to Ease the Cost of College

Ways to Ease the Cost of College A look at grants, scholarships, 529 plans, and other methods. Provided by Peter Livingston How much could a college education cost in the 2030s? You may want to take a deep breath and sit down before...

The Value of Insuring Against Life’s Risks

The Value of Insuring Against Life’s Risks Building wealth requires protection from the forces of wealth destruction. Provided by Peter Livingston When you are planning for your future, what do you think about? You may think...

A Retirement Fact Sheet

A Retirement Fact Sheet Some specifics about the “second act.” Provided by Peter Livingston Does your vision of retirement align with the facts? Here are some noteworthy financial and lifestyle facts about life after 50...

Why Do You Need a Will?

Why Do You Need a Will? It may not sound enticing, but creating a will puts power in your hands. Provided by Peter Livingston According to the global analytics firm Gallup, only about 44% of Americans have created a will. This finding...

Tax Considerations for Retirees

Tax Considerations for Retirees Are you aware of them? Provided by Peter Livingston The federal government offers some major tax breaks for older Americans. Some of these perks deserve more publicity than they receive. If you are 65 or...

Some Changes Are Coming for 401(k)s

Some Changes Are Coming for 401(k)s Take note of them for 2019. Provided by Peter Livingston Some notable developments are about to impact 401(k) plans. They follow a major change that became effective in 2018. Thanks to the Tax Cuts &...

Social Security Gets Its Biggest Boost in Years

Social Security Gets Its Biggest Boost in Years Seniors will see their retirement benefits increase by an average of 2.8% in 2019. Provided by Peter Livingston Social Security will soon give seniors their largest “raise”...

Why You Might Want to Create a Donor-Advised Fund

Why You Might Want to Create a Donor-Advised Fund A DAF can be a great way to give, with potentially great tax breaks. Provided by Peter Livingston Do you regularly donate to charities and other non-profit organizations? Then you may...

Your 2019 Financial To-Do List

Your 2019 Financial To-Do List Things you can do for your future as the year unfolds. Provided by Peter Livingston What financial, business, or life priorities do you need to address for 2019? Now is a good time to think about the...

Did you know retirement plan contributions are increasing for 2019?

The I.R.S. just increased the annual contribution limits on IRAs, 401(k)s, and other widely used retirement plan accounts for 2019. Here is a quick look at the changes. *Next year, you can put up to $6,000 in any type of IRA. The limit...

Filling Out the FAFSA

Filling Out the FAFSA There is really no reason to wait. Provided by Livingston Financial, Mooresville NC October is here – the ideal time for college students to apply for financial aid. October 1, in fact, marks the first day a...

5 Retirement Concerns Too Often Overlooked

5 Retirement Concerns Too Often Overlooked Baby boomers entering their “second acts” should think about these matters. Provided by Livingston Financial Mooresville, NC Retirement is undeniably a major life and financial...

Why the U.S. Might Be Less Affected by a Trade War

Why the U.S. Might Be Less Affected by a Trade War The nature of our economy could help it withstand the disruption. Provided by Livingston Financial of Mooresville NC A trade war does seem to be getting underway. Investors around the...

Starting a Roth IRA for a Child or Grandchild

Starting a Roth IRA for a Child or Grandchild This early financial decision could prove profoundly positive over time. Provided by Livingston Financial Mooresville NC Do you have a child or grandchild earning some income? Indirectly,...

The Sequence of Returns

The Sequence of Returns A look at how variable rates of return do (and do not) impact investors over time. Provided by Livingston Financial, Mooresville NC What exactly is the “sequence of returns”? The phrase simply...

The Flattening of the Yield Curve

The Flattening of the Yield Curve Why are investors and economists getting nervous about Treasury yields? Provided by Livingston Financial What is the yield curve, and why is the financial media writing about it? Here is a brief...

Why Medicare Should Be Part of Your Retirement Planning

The premiums and coverages vary, and you must realize the differences. Provided by Livingston Financial Medicare takes a little time to understand. As you approach age 65, familiarize yourself with its coverage options and their costs...

Beware of Lifestyle Creep

Beware of Lifestyle Creep Sometimes more money can mean more problems. Provided by Livingston Financial, Mooresville NC “Lifestyle creep” is an unusual phrase describing an all-too-common problem: the more money people earn...

The Major 2018 Federal Tax Changes

The Major 2018 Federal Tax Changes Comparing the old rules with the new. Provided by Livingston Financial, Mooresville NC The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act made dramatic changes to federal tax law. It is worth reviewing some of these changes...

News by the Numbers for the week of April 9, 2018

News by the Numbers Five noteworthy figures from the previous week 103,000 March’s net jobs gain. This number was certainly disappointing, especially after payrolls swelled with 326,000 more jobs in February. Even so, Department...

Tracking legislation that may impact your business, your estate, your retirement, or your wallet.

SPRING 2018 Presented by Livingston Financial – Mooresville, NC. Tracking legislation that may impact your business, your estate, your retirement, or your wallet. Recent Developments Tariffs on imported metals, Chinese imports....

The Major Retirement Planning Mistakes

Why are they made again and again? Provided by Peter Livingston Much has been written about the classic financial mistakes that plague start-ups, family businesses, corporations, and charities. Aside from these blunders, there are also...

Tax Deductions Gone in 2018

What standbys did tax reforms eliminate? Provided by Peter Livingston - Mooresville NC Are the days of itemizing over? Not quite, but now that H.R. 1 (popularly called the Tax Cuts & Jobs Act) is the law, all kinds of itemized federal...

Ignore the Distractions

Ignore the Distractions The steady diet of headlines pouring out of the Trump administration has been unsettling for most Americans, regardless of where they sit on the political spectrum.

I am a Financial Advisor

Read about a personal experience I had with a neighbor about why hiring a financial advisor could help guide you through life's challenges and possibly help prevent a financial hardship.

When Someone Dies Without a Will

When someone dies without a will where do things proceed from that point? Please read why creating a will is necessary and important to your family.

Why Relationships Matter in Financial Planning

Read more about how financial planning across family generations can provide peace of mind and advice for all stages of life.

Little Things That May Help Your Retirement Saving

Little Things That May Help Your Retirement Saving Over time, these seemingly small factors could make a major difference. Provided by Peter Livingston Saving for retirement takes decades and demands the investment of significant...

Getting Your Financial Paperwork in Good Order

Getting Your Financial Paperwork in Good Order Help make things easier for your loved ones when you leave this world. Provided by Peter Livingston Who wants to leave this world with their financial affairs in good order? We all do,...

Do Women Face Greater Retirement Challenges Than Men?

Do Women Face Greater Retirement Challenges Than Men? If so, how can they plan to meet those challenges? Provided by Peter Livingston A new study has raised eyebrows about the retirement prospects of women. It comes from the National...

Mind Over Money

Mind Over Money Emotion often drives our financial decisions, even when logic should. Provided by Peter Livingston When we go to the grocery store, we seldom shop on logic alone. We may not even buy on price. We buy one type of yogurt...

Characteristics of the Millionaires Next Door

Characteristics of the Millionaires Next Door The habits and values of wealthy Americans. Provided by Peter Livingston Just how many millionaires does America have? By the latest estimation of Spectrem Group, a research firm studying...

The Trump & Clinton Tax Plans

The Trump & Clinton Tax Plans How do they differ? Provided by Peter Livingston Seemingly every presidential candidate offers a plan for tax reform. You can add Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton to that long list. Here is a look at their...

Money Habits That May Help You Become Wealthier

Money Habits That May Help You Become Wealthier Financially speaking, what do some households do right? Provided by Peter Livingston Why do some households tread water financially while others make progress? Does it come down to...

LPL Research Midyear Outlook 2016

Midyear Outlook 2016 | July 2016 The recently released LPL Research Midyear Outlook 2016: A Vote of Confidence publication contains the guidance and investment insights to support you throughout the rest of this year. As we embark on...

Getting Your Financial Paperwork in Good Order

Getting Your Financial Paperwork in Good Order Help make things easier for your loved ones when you leave this world. Provided by Peter Livingston, Old North Wealth Management Group, Mooresville NC Who wants to leave this world with...

The Brexit Shakes Global Markets

The Brexit Shakes Global Markets A worldwide selloff occurs after the United Kingdom votes to leave the European Union. Provided by Peter Livingston, Old North Wealth Management Group, Mooresville NC A wave of anxiety hit Wall Street...

Got Brexit?

Investors worldwide are concerned about the possibility of a “Brexit”: the potential exit of “Britain” (to be precise, the United Kingdom) from the European Union. A Brexit would represent a significant crack in...

What Are Catch-Up Contributions Really Worth?

What Are Catch-Up Contributions Really Worth? What degree of difference could they make for you in retirement? Provided by Peter Livingston At a certain age, you are allowed to boost your yearly retirement account contributions. For...

Sometimes the Pundits Get It Wrong

Sometimes the Pundits Get It Wrong In fact, many predictions about Wall Street have misread the market’s direction. Provided by Peter Livingston, Old North Wealth Management Group, Mooresville NC Trying to determine how Wall...

The New Gradual Retirement

The New Gradual Retirement Working a little (or a lot) after 60 may become the norm. Provided by Peter Livingston Do we really want to retire at 65? Not according to the latest annual retirement survey from the Transamerica Center for...

The Chapters of Retirement

The Chapters of Retirement The five phases of life after 50 & the considerations that accompany them. Provided by Peter Livingston The journey to and through retirement occurs gradually, like successive chapters in a book. Each chapter...

How Can You Make Your Retirement Money Last?

How Can You Make Your Retirement Money Last? These spending and investing precepts may encourage its longevity. Provided by Peter Livingston All retirees want their money to last a lifetime. There is no guarantee it will, but, in...

Mid-Life Money Errors

Mid-Life Money Errors If you are between 40 & 60, beware of these financial blunders & assumptions. Provided by Peter Livingston Between the ages of 40 and 60, many people increase their commitment to investing and retirement saving....

Long-Term Investment Truths

Long-Term Investment Truths Key lessons for retirement savers. You learn lessons as you invest in pursuit of long-run goals. Some of these lessons are conveyed and reinforced when you begin saving for retirement, and others you glean...

Reducing the Risk of Outliving Your Money

Reducing the Risk of Outliving Your Money What steps might help you sustain and grow your retirement savings? Provided by Peter Livingston “What is your greatest retirement fear?” If you ask retirees that question,...

Taking a Loan from Your Retirement Plan = Bad Idea

Taking a Loan from Your Retirement Plan = Bad Idea Why you should refrain from making this move. Provided by Peter Livingston Thinking about borrowing money from your 401(k), 403(b), or 457 account? Think twice about that, because...

Tell Your Beneficiaries About Your Accounts and Policies

Tell Your Beneficiaries About Your Accounts and Policies Let them know how they will receive retirement assets and insurance benefits. Provided by Peter Livingston Will your heirs receive a fair share of your wealth? Will your invested...

Why Roth IRA Conversions Can Make Sense in a Down Market

Why Roth IRA Conversions Can Make Sense in a Down Market When stocks struggle or tread water, going Roth gains merit. Provided by Peter Livingston Converting a traditional IRA to a Roth IRA is no easy decision. After all, it is a...

Wisdom from Warren Buffett

Wisdom from Warren Buffett One of the world’s most heralded investors simply keeps calm and carries on. Provided by Peter Livingston If you ask someone who the “world’s greatest investor” is, the answer more...

Explaining the Basis of Inherited Real Estate

Explaining the Basis of Inherited Real Estate What is cost basis? Stepped-up basis? How does the home sale tax exclusion work? At some point in our lives, we may inherit a home or another form of real property. In such instances, we...

Financial Planning with Health Insurance in Mind

How much might health care cost you someday? “Financially speaking, what would be the worst thing that could happen to you?” If you ask a hundred people in their forties that question, you may get a dozen different answers. Some may...

Could Social Security Really Go Away?

Could Social Security Really Go Away? Just how gloomy does its future look? Will Social Security run out of money in the 2030s? For years, Americans have been warned about that possibility. Those warnings, however, assume that no...

Should You Plan to Retire on 80% of Your Income?

Should You Plan to Retire on 80% of Your Income? Examining a long-held retirement planning assumption. A classic retirement planning rule states that you should retire on 80% of the income you earned in your last year of work. Is this...

Diversification, Patience and Consistency

Diversification, Patience and Consistency Three important factors when it comes to your financial life. Regardless of how the markets may perform, consider making the following part of your investment philosophy: Diversification. The...

When Will Stocks Stabilize?

When Will Stocks Stabilize? How deep will this correction ultimately be? January may prove to be the worst month for stocks in eight years. The S&P 500 just corrected for the second time in five months, and some investors think the...

WEEKLY ECONOMIC UPDATE

WEEKLY ECONOMIC UPDATE WEEKLY QUOTE “No one is ready for a thing until he believes he can acquire it.” - Napoleon Hill WEEKLY TIP Before 2016 begins, take a look at your spending patterns. Which expenses are necessary, which less so?...

WEEKLY ECONOMIC UPDATE

WEEKLY ECONOMIC UPDATE WEEKLY QUOTE “Chance is always powerful. Let your hook be always cast; in the pool where you least expect it, there will be a fish.” - Ovid WEEKLY TIP Many people stay with the same bank for decades. Online...

WEEKLY ECONOMIC UPDATE

WEEKLY ECONOMIC UPDATE WEEKLY QUOTE “We can have facts without thinking but we cannot have thinking without facts.” - John Dewey WEEKLY TIP Too many people believe they can create a great lifestyle for themselves by buying goods and...

WEEKLY ECONOMIC UPDATE

WEEKLY ECONOMIC UPDATE WEEKLY QUOTE “Yesterday is not ours to recover, but tomorrow is ours to win or to lose.” - Lyndon B. Johnson WEEKLY TIP Most employers pay their workers 26 times per year. As a consequence, most people receive...

WEEKLY ECONOMIC UPDATE November 30, 2015

WEEKLY ECONOMIC UPDATE WEEKLY QUOTE “First say to yourself what you would be; and then do what you have to do.” - Epictetus WEEKLY TIP Taking money out of your retirement account with the goal of using it to pay for your child’s...

Retirement Blindspots

Retirement Blindspots Some life & financial factors that can be overlooked. We all have a “blue sky” vision of the way retirement should be, yet it helps to plan for retirement with a little pragmatism. Fate may alter the course of...

Why DIY Investment Management Is Such a Risk

If you ever have the inkling to manage your investments on your own, that inkling is worth reconsidering. Do-it-yourself investment management can be a bad idea for the retail investor for myriad reasons. Getting caught up in the...

Riding Out This Volatile Market

Riding Out This Volatile Market A major global selloff unfolds. Is a bottom near? When will the stock market stabilize? As the last trading week of August began, worried investors wondered just that. Gains for the major indices were...

Another Glitch Hits Wall Street

Another Glitch Hits Wall Street The NYSE freezes floor trading for more than three hours. Floor trading was abruptly halted at the New York Stock Exchange Wednesday. At 11:32 am EST, a sudden problem forced the NYSE to interrupt...

THE MAJOR RETIREMENT PLANNING MISTAKES

THE MAJOR RETIREMENT PLANNING MISTAKES Why are they made again and again? Much has been written about the classic financial mistakes that plague start-ups, family businesses, corporations and charities. Aside from these blunders,...

Who Needs Estate Planning?

Who Needs Estate Planning? Why estate planning is so important, and not just for the rich. You have an estate. It doesn’t matter how limited (or unlimited) your means may be, and it doesn’t matter if you own a mansion or a motor home....

The Psychology of Saving

The Psychology of Saving How many households have the right outlook to build wealth? Provided by Peter Livingston Why do some households save more than others? Building household savings may depend not only on cash flow, but also on...

Creating a Budget for Retirement

Creating a Budget for Retirement It only makes sense – yet many retirees live without one. Presented by Peter Livingston The importance of budgeting. You won’t be able to withdraw an unlimited amount of money in retirement, so a...