Blog

by Scott Rosenquist, CFA
Inflation and Financial Markets

The financial markets have been processing the election results for almost a month now and there have been some notable moves.  We’ve seen sector rotation in the equity market from utilities and consumer staples to more cyclical areas including industrials and financials.  In the bond market, the yield on the 10 year U.S. Treasury has moved up sharply above 2%. This move reflects a change in expectations for GDP growth and inflation.  Inflation has been extremely low since the financial crisis and the market is now starting to reflect higher expectations in the future given the potential large increases in government spending through infrastructure.

by Jon Alton

The end of the year is approaching fast, but there is still time for everyone’s favorite topic: saving tax dollars. There’s a lot of things you can do to lower your tax bill before year end. I will briefly cover several topics, but reach out to your Relationship Manager to see if there are other options available or if you would like to learn more about a specific strategy.

by Dan Zalipski 

Market Update

Well, that was unexpected.  Against all consensus expectations and forecasts, Donald Trump has been elected as the next President of the United States.  The market, expecting a Clinton victory, took notice.  Prior to the election, the month of October was somewhat unusual.  The market seemed less concerned with economic reports and earning releases and seemed to be trading at the mercy of the upcoming election.

by Scott Rosenquist, CFA
Market Volatility

Market volatility has been a popular topic among investors this year.  To start 2016, the S&P 500 lost 8% in the first two weeks for its worst start in history.  Then climbed its way back to only experience another surprise with the Brexit vote in June.  Looking forward, the potential volatility from the results of the presidential election last week have probably only begun to work their way through the financial markets.  This will take time as specific details emerge regarding policies and regulations.

Worried about sleep, the election, long-term financial success?  Take a look at these articles and remember Who is in control.

By Sam Bakou

If… you are 70 ½ years old ... have a traditional IRA... still need to make a Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) before year-end... want to be more charitably engaged... interested in possibly savings some tax dollars... then, you may be in luck.

by Dan Zalipski 

Markets Update

Another quarter comes to a close as September rolls off the calendar.  The S&P ended the month flat while both the international developed and emerging markets (MSCI EAFE & MSCI EM Indices) each added approximately 1.2%. 

By Jonathan Alton

Many dream of retiring early, but also have a hard time imaging that retiring at a young age is even possible. However, it is for these three couples who seemed to have beat the odds and broken the rules. 

Many young adults have never been taught the basics of personal finance and are now in a position where they need to make major financial decisions on their own.

by Scott Rosenquist, CFA
2016 Election & Markets

As the U.S. presidential election nears, investors are contemplating the potential outcomes and the impact on the financial markets.  Given the nature of this year’s election, emotions are running high and may spill over into the market resulting in some short term volatility, regardless of which candidate wins. While the headlines and uncertainty are increasing it is important to take a step back and put it in perspective by maintaining a long term view.