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How to Find Your Financial True North on Politics and Profits with Rick Amato
How to Find Your Financial True North on Politics and Profits with Rick AmatoHow does an investor choose a Wealth Advisor?Ralph Adamo discusses this important decision on the TV show "Politics and Profits" with Rick Amato.On this...
Read MoreRalph Adamo Interviews with Rick Amato from Politics & Profits
Life has changed dramatically over the years, especially since the days when our parents and grandparents were saving for retirement. With longer life expectancy and many people retiring early, the pressure of working, living and...
Read MoreRalph Interviews with Edwin Warfield, CEO of Citybiz.co
"Ralph Adamo began his career in the financial services industry in 1985, quickly recognizing that clients require broader services and a personalized plan to address their concerns and needs in today’s complex world. His...
Read MoreWorried about inflation?
Worried about inflation? "Consumers and investors aren’t the only ones worried about inflation. Rising prices remain top of mind for financial advisors, who continue to field questions from clients about...
Read MoreHow does an investor choose a Wealth Advisor?
How does an investor choose a Wealth Advisor?I was honored to discuss this important decision on the TV show "Politics and Profits" with Rick Amato.This episode featured my NEW book Integrity@Work - How to Find Your Financial True...
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Ralph G. Adamo Renews Membership With The Financial Services Institute
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASERalph G. Adamo Renews Membership With The Financial Services InstituteFSI Advocates for Main Street Americans’ Access to Objective, Affordable Financial AdviceNEWPORT BEACH, Calif., March 1, 2023 –...
Read MoreVideo: Integrity Wealth Management - Statement of Intention
Statement of IntentionAt Integrity Wealth Management, our foundational approach is based on a focus of intentionality - with and for our clients. Oftentimes a mission or value statement focusses on the Advisor or the Firm,...
Read MoreVideo: Integrity Wealth Management - Our Sounding Board Process
Our Sounding Board Process We look to be a sounding board to those you care about and making an introduction for a Sounding Board meeting is simple. If there are people in your life that are important to you, know that they are...
Read MoreHow Can You Plan for Long Term Care?
1-Minute Video: Statistics say there is a seventy percent chance that you or your spouse will experience a need for long-term care! Long-term care includes a range of services and supports you may need to meet your personal care needs....
Read MoreHow Dollar Cost Averaging Can Help You Make Smart Investments
1-Minute Video: Dollar cost averaging is a stock market investing technique where you buy a fixed dollar amount of a particular investment on a regular schedule, regardless of the share price. More shares are purchased when prices are...
Read MoreTax Planning: How to Prepare for Taxes at the End of the Year
1-Minute Video: Here are some tips to help you lessen your tax burden at the end of the year. First, be aware of any tax changes that will take place in the new year so you can use them to your advantage. Review your cost basis so you...
Read MoreUnderstanding Your Credit Score (FICO)
1-Minute Video: A credit score is a 3-digit number based upon a number of factors from your financial activities. It is used to determine your creditworthiness for a mortgage, auto loan or credit card. A company called FICO creates...
Read MoreHow to Double Your Money - Financial Education
1-Minute Video: People often ask us, “How long will it take to double my money?’ You can find the answer with the rule of 72. Here's how it works. Compounding interest is the interest you earn on a growing amount of money.)...
Read MoreHow to Manage Your Debt
1-Minute Video: The average American household debt is increasing. Some debt is good, but some debt is bad. Good debt includes borrowing for a home or college education. Good debt is often defined as debt that can help you generate...
Read MoreVideo: Integrity Wealth Management - Critical Financial Events
Our newest video has just been published - Critical Financial Events! Critical Financial Events in life are inevitable. These events can be wonderful and amazing and can also be a source of worry and stress. As a financial advisor, our...
Read MoreHow to Find the Right Financial Advisor
1-Minute Video: Various financial industries strive to create standards of excellence through accreditation programs. When choosing a Financial Advisor, here are some designations you should look for: - A CFP is a Certified Financial...
Read MoreWhat's the Difference Between a Will and a Living Trust?
1-Minute Video: A “Living Trust” is a trust you created that is active while you are alive versus a Testamentary Trust which becomes active at your death. When you create a Living Trust, you ensure that your assets will be...
Read MoreDo You Need A Durable Power of Attorney?
1-Minute Video: The durable power of attorney is a legal document that allows a trusted person to act in your place if you're incapacitated. If you are unable to act on your own due to accident or illness, they can step in to take...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Fed Unveils Tapering Plans
A strong opening to the third-quarter earnings season sparked a late week, broad-based rally that helped stocks finish the week with solid gains.The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 1.58%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500...
Read MoreWhy You Need a Living Will (Good Estate Planning)
1-Minute Video: A Living Will can also be called an Advance Health Care Directive. It is a legal document instructing what actions should be taken if you are unable to make decisions due to illness or incapacity. Medical intervention...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Debt Ceiling Raised
The overhang of bumping against the federal debt ceiling was lifted last week with an agreement to extend the debt ceiling through early December, helping propel stocks to a weekly gain.The Dow Jones Industrial Average increased by 1...
Read MoreVideo: Integrity Wealth Management - Are We a Good Fit?
Are We a Good Fit? Our most recent YouTube video gives a peak into Integrity Wealth Management's client relationship goals. You know that feeling when you just click with someone? This is the kind of relationship we want and strive to...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Stalemate in the Capitol
Higher bond yields and a legislative stalemate in Washington, D.C., added up to losses for the week.The Dow Jones Industrial Average declined 1.36%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 lost 2.21%. The Nasdaq Composite index fell...
Read MoreWhat is an Annuity and How Does it Generate Income?
1-Minute Video: What are annuities and how do they work? Annuities are both a savings and an income investment that pays out over a period of time. It's actually a stream of income that may be designed so that you can’t outlive...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Wild Week of Contagion Concerns
Stocks prices were whipsawed last week, dragged initially lower by financial contagion worries and later lifted by a supportive Fed policy statement.The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 0.62%, while the Standard & Poor’s...
Read More1-Minute Video: How to Protect Yourself From Identity Theft
1-Minute Video: What is the real cost of identity theft? It goes beyond just financial loss. In the past, identity theft happened when someone stole your wallet or picked through your trash or your mail. Today's theft is much more...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Stocks Lackluster Despite Positive Outlook
Stocks weakened ahead of this week’s Federal Reserve meeting and amid persistent concerns about the Delta variant’s impact on the economy.The Dow Jones Industrial Average was flat (-0.07%), while the Standard &...
Read More1-Minute Video: What are Required Minimum Distribution and How Are They Determined?
1-Minute Video: What are required minimum distributions and how are they determined? Beginning at age 72, you must begin to withdraw money from your retirement accounts every year. The amount is determined based on your life expectancy...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Delta Variant Concerns Markets
In a quiet week of news, stocks moved lower amid simmering concerns over the Delta variant’s effect on the progress of economic reopening.The Dow Jones Industrial Average declined 2.15%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500...
Read MoreVideo: Integrity Wealth Management - What We Do For You
Check out our latest YouTube video that answers the question - What do we do for you? Ralph Adamo shares the 8 Pillars that support our Wealth Trac FORMula which has been helping people just like you since 2008. Integrity Wealth...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Data and Delta Scramble Stock Results
Stocks were mixed last week amid conflicting economic data and continued spread of Delta variant infections.The Dow Jones Industrial Average slipped 0.24% during the five trading days. But the Standard & Poor’s 500 tacked on...
Read More1-Minute Video: How to Maximize your Social Security Benefits
1-Minute Video: As life expectancy has grown, your retirement now can last between 20 and 30 years. So Social Security planning is critical, no matter how much money you have. It can make a difference of hundreds of thousands of...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Powell: Tapering Likely in 2021
The stock market powered to record levels last week amid talk of Fed tapering and a deceleration in new Delta variant cases.The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 0.96%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 increased 1.52%. The...
Read More1-Minute Video: How Are Your Social Security Benefits Calculated?
1-Minute Video: We all think we know the basics about Social Security, but do we really know how different the benefits can be? The standard retirement age is between 65 and 67, depending on your birthday. Your monthly income, also...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Will the Fed Taper in 2021?
Stocks turned lower last week amid the increasing probability of a Fed tapPublishering, mixed economic data, and growing concerns about the economic impact of the Delta variant. The Dow Jones Industrial Average slumped 1.11%, while...
Read MoreAccumulation Planning vs. Distribution Planning
Accumulation Planning vs. Distribution Planning Two very different processes involved here The Sherpa Guide in Climbing the Mountain vs Descending the Mountain Slope We have found that most folks who have either the ambition to...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Passage of Infrastructure Boosts Stocks
Looking past inflation figures and Delta variant trends, stocks last week found a way to climb higher and set fresh record highs in the process.The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 0.87%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500...
Read MoreVideo: Integrity Wealth Management - Who We Are!
We now have a new video education section on our website! Have you been wondering just who we are at Integrity Wealth Management or even how you might benefit from working with us? Take a look at our new video, 'Who We Are' to learn...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Jobs Strong, Earnings Strong
Overcoming jitters about the Delta variant and the reintroduction of mask requirements, stocks climbed higher on strong employment data and a fresh batch of strong corporate earnings.The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 0.78% while...
Read MoreChinese Stocks Under Pressure
With overseas investments, we remind people that, “international markets carry additional risks, which include differences in financial reporting standards, currency exchange rates, political risk, foreign taxes and regulations...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Market Shows Small Loss
The stock market posted small losses last week despite a very strong showing by corporate America.The Dow Jones Industrial Average slipped 0.36%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 lost 0.37%. The Nasdaq Composite index dropped...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Markets Overcome Delta Variant Reports
Overcoming a COVID-related economic growth scare, stocks moved higher amid a week of strong corporate earnings reports.The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 1.08%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 gained 1.96%. The Nasdaq...
Read MoreOil Prices Hit Six-Year High
On July 6, oil prices reached a six-year high of $76.98 a barrel. This benchmark came as the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and allies failed to reach an agreement regarding an increase in production.1This...
Read MoreConducting Your Mid-Year Financial Checkup
With June officially behind us, it’s time to face the facts: we’re headed toward the second half of 2021. While there’s still plenty of time to enjoy the rest of summer, we encourage you to slow down and check up on...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Stocks Retreat, Inflation Advances
Despite a good start to earnings season and some solid economic data, worries of slower second-half economic growth led to a pullback in stock prices last week.The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 0.52%, while the Standard &...
Read MoreSummer Travel is Back!
One of the most anticipated comebacks of 2021 isn’t an athlete, rock star, or movie franchise. It’s summer travel, and it appears to be back with a vengeance.Travel agents are working 14-hour days to meet the needs of...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Stocks Edge Higher in Short Week
Stocks managed small gains as investors wrestled with concerns over economic growth prospects and a rise in COVID-19 infections.The Dow Jones Industrial Average picked up 0.24%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 gained 0.40%....
Read MoreAre You Ready for the Second Act of the Secure Act?
Recently, you may have seen headlines regarding the Securing a Strong Retirement Act, also referred to as the second version of the SECURE Act, or SECURE Act 2.0.As the bill moves from the House of Representatives to the Senate, many...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Strong Employment Reports
Strong employment reports and rising consumer confidence sent the stock market broadly higher last week.The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 1.02%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 picked up 1.67%. The Nasdaq Composite index...
Read MoreSimplifying the Advisor Relationship
Simplifying the Advisor Relationship Financial advice and the financial advisory relationship should not be so complex that the essential elements of how you are doing and where you are going financially are either elusive or...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Stocks Reach All-Time Highs
Stocks reached new all-time highs last week as markets staged a strong rebound from the previous week’s declines.The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 3.44%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 picked up 2.74%. The Nasdaq...
Read MoreBeing a True Quarterback of the Planning Process: Governing by Time and Responsibility
Being a True Quarterback of the Planning Process: Governing by Time and Responsibility Charts & Financial Action Checklists Somewhat akin to the idea of recruiting in the appropriate allied professionals where needed and integrating...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Fed Signals Interest Rate Hikes
New messaging from the Federal Reserve on interest rates and inflation last week led to a broad retreat in stock prices.The Dow Jones Industrial Average dropped 3.45% while the Standard & Poor’s 500 lost 1.91%. The Nasdaq...
Read MoreA COLA with Your Social Security?
If there is a "silver lining" to all the inflation talk, it may be that Social Security benefits are expected to see a larger-than-normal increase in 2022.Preliminary estimates call for a 4.7% cost-of-living increase (COLA) in Social...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Stocks Stay Cool, Inflation Heats Up
Stocks ended the week mixed as investors appeared to shrug off a hotter-than-expected inflation report. The Dow Jones Industrial Average slipped 0.80%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 advanced 0.41%. The Nasdaq Composite index...
Read MoreA Seven-Year High for Gas Prices
Over Memorial Day weekend, gasoline prices hit the highest for this holiday weekend since 2014.1With the Colonial Pipeline outage in the rear-view mirror and an ever-increasing number of adults vaccinated, formerly cooped-up motorists...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Labor Numbers Positive
A strong, but not too strong, employment report sparked a rally on the final day of trading, propelling stocks to a modest gain for the week.The Dow Jones Industrial Average climbed by 0.66%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500...
Read MoreRecovering from COVID
With COVID, there were some who believed that progress on this health issue was a necessary precondition to economic recovery.In recent weeks, we have seen some promising trends emerge on the health front. The CDC is reporting the...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Upbeat Feelings Boost Market
Optimism over the economic reopening and renewed enthusiasm for technology and other high-growth companies powered the stock market higher last week.The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 0.94%, while the Standard & Poor’s...
Read MoreBuffett and Powell Talk Inflation
What does it mean when two of the most powerful voices in American financial life seem to be saying two different things?In one corner, we have the “Oracle of Omaha,” investor Warren Buffett. As one of the nation’s...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Inflation Concerns Continue
Stock prices fluctuated amid inflation concerns and bargain hunting, leaving stocks mixed for the week.The Dow Jones Industrial Average slipped 0.51%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 dropped 0.43%. The tech-heavy Nasdaq...
Read MoreBaseball’s 300 Million Dollar Players
The San Diego Padres signed infielder Fernando Tatis, Jr., to a 14-year, $340 million contract roughly one year after the Los Angeles Dodgers inked outfielder Mookie Betts to a 12-year, $365 million deal. That brings the total to 8...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Stocks React to Big CPI Shift
A surge in consumer inflation unsettled investors, leading to a turbulent week of trading on Wall Street.The Dow Jones Industrial Average slipped 1.14%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 fell 1.39%. The Nasdaq Composite index...
Read More“Green Shoots” in the Economy
Investors looking for "green shoots" to confirm that the economy is on the mend have seen plenty of examples in recent weeks. Retail sales rose 9.8% in March, the largest monthly gain since May 2020. It's important to remember that...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Labor Numbers Reflect Uncertainty
Stocks closed mixed last week as signs of continued economic recovery and upbeat earnings helped some sectors while the struggles persisted for high-growth companies.The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 2.67%, while the Standard...
Read MoreWhat Forces Are Driving the Housing Market?
Recently, you may have seen reports that a record-low number of homes are available for sale—roughly 1.03 million nationwide. If you compare that to the average number of homes for sale during the past 10 years, it's no surprise...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Earnings Season Crests Some Expectations
Stocks meandered around a flatline in a busy week of corporate earnings, ending the trading week slightly lower.The Dow Jones Industrial Average slid 0.50%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 was flat (+0.02%). The Nasdaq...
Read MoreIt’s All About Bonds
There’s an old Wall Street maxim that says, “markets climb a wall of worry.” And these days, there’s plenty to worry about with the trend in long-term interest rates.The 10-year Treasury yield in recent weeks...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Mixed Signals, Choppy Week
The crosscurrents of strong corporate earnings, rising global cases of COVID-19, and the specter of higher capital gains taxes led to a choppy week of trading that left stock prices slightly lower for the week.The Dow Jones Industrial...
Read MoreAre Americans Saving Too Much?
Among the many changes arising from the pandemic, one of the most noticeable was a change in American spending habits.A survey released in March 2021 by Pew Research shows that Americans have increasingly chosen to put away what extra...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Stocks Move Higher on Latest Numbers
Stocks reached record highs last week, riding the tailwind of improving economic data and a strong start to the earnings season.The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 1.18%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 gained 1.37%. The...
Read MoreInflation Boogeyman
Inflation has emerged as one of the top financial concerns for investors as they size up the economy for the rest of the year.According to research by Deutsche Bank, Google searches for “inflation” are rising rapidly and...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Tech Stocks On the Rise
Strong economic data and a resurgent technology sector propelled stocks to solid gains last week.The Dow Jones Industrial Average advanced 1.95%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 picked up 2.71%. The tech-heavy Nasdaq...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: S&P 500 Rises Above 4,000
Overcoming a rocky start, stocks rallied into the close of a holiday-shortened week of trading as technology shares staged a powerful recovery and investors reacted positively to President Biden’s infrastructure spending...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Rocky Week Despite Upbeat Signals
A rocky week with wide price swings led to mixed results for stocks last week, as investors grappled with anxieties over economic growth and weakness in technology and other high-growth stocks.The Dow Jones Industrial Average added 1...
Read MoreVolatility Tests Your Mettle
Most people understand that stock prices don't go straight up. But when market volatility increases, the price action can test the mettle of even the most seasoned investor.In recent weeks, stock prices have trended lower with a few...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Modest Losses After Choppy Week
Rising bond yields and improving economic conditions led to a choppy week of trading that ended in modest losses for investors.The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 0.46%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 declined 0.77%. The...
Read MoreSPACs Take Center Stage
The acronym “SPAC” is showing up more often these days because there is some big money behind the revitalized investment approach.SPAC stands for Special Purpose Acquisition Company, and they are sometimes referred to as...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Economy Reacts to COVID-19 Stimulus
Stocks touched new record highs last week as bond yields steadied, a fiscal relief bill was signed into law, and confidence in a strong economic recovery grew.The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 4.07%, while the Standard &...
Read MoreEconomic Predictions: What Lies Ahead?
It can be easy to overlook the nation’s solid economic fundamentals when the financial media splashes stories every day about an army of amateur traders, short-selling mania, and initial public offerings (IPOs) that double in...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Stocks React Sharply to Bonds, Inflation
Stocks were mixed last week as rising bond yields and heightening inflation fears sent stocks on a wild ride, capped by a remarkable Friday afternoon rally.The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 1.82%, while the Standard &...
Read MoreOil Prices on the Move
At this time last year, it was still unknown that a deadly global pandemic was on the rise, eventually stalling economic growth and sending crude oil prices into negative territory. But recently, oil prices have surged, with crude...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Rising Bond Yields Diminish Stocks
Stocks dropped amid rising long-term bond yields, with sharp declines in high-valuation growth stocks leading the overall market lower.The Dow Jones Industrial Average slipped 1.78%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 declined...
Read MoreHow Soon Might the Stimulus Arrive?
While many in the United States are beginning to receive vaccinations and people are starting to foresee a life after COVID-19, it remains clear that things aren’t yet back to normal. As a result, there has been a great deal of...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Rising Inflation Concerns
Rising bond yields dampened investor enthusiasm for high-multiple growth companies last week, sending market averages mostly lower in a holiday-shortened week of trading.The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 0.11% for the week. But...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Fed Chair Says No Change For Now
Stock prices inched higher last week amid declining COVID-19 cases, a pick-up in vaccinations, and progress on a fiscal relief bill.The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 1.00%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 rose 1.23%....
Read MoreCelebrating Black History Month
Every February, Americans celebrate Black History Month. This year, we invite you to join us in remembering the accomplishments of black citizens, past and present, which are an integral part of American history.Whether it’s the...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Markets Go Back to Basics
Stocks notched strong gains last week, paced by a string of solid economic reports and consensus-beating corporate earnings.The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 3.89%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 advanced 4.65%. The...
Read MoreHow the Internet Gamed Wall Street’s Short Sellers
You may have heard the news about stocks for certain companies suddenly ballooning, quickly going from lunch money prices to several hundred dollars a share. In one case, the shares rose over 1700% since December 2020.1 So, what...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Unexpected Trading Rattles Market
Despite strong corporate earnings, stock prices closed lower after a volatile week of trading triggered by unprecedented activity in a handful of companies.The Dow Jones Industrial Average lost 3.27%, while the Standard &...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Optimism Stimulates Markets
Anticipation of a new fiscal stimulus and improved vaccine distribution powered stocks to fresh record highs last week with technology stocks leading the way.The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 0.59%, while the Standard &...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Mixed Reaction from Markets
Markets drifted lower last week as uninspired investors digested mixed news on the economic front.The Dow Jones Industrial Average lost 0.91% while the Standard & Poor’s 500 slid 1.48%. The Nasdaq Composite index stumbled 1...
Read MoreElection Update: 2021 May Bring Some Changes
As election season draws to a close, it's a great time to review what type of legislative support would be needed to pass certain policy proposals that may come forward from the Biden Administration.It's important to remember that...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Markets Start 2021 on a High
Shrugging off COVID-19 infections and the disruption at the Capitol on January 6, stocks powered higher to kick off a new year of trading.The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 1.61%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: The Year in Review
Stocks moved higher during a holiday-shortened week of trading, capping off a turbulent, but otherwise strong year for equity investors.The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 1.35%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 increased...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Vaccine Rollout Spurs Markets
Stocks climbed higher amid the COVID-19 vaccine rollout and an improving outlook for a fiscal stimulus bill.The Dow Jones Industrial Average, which has lagged all year, gained 0.44%. The Standard & Poor’s 500 picked up 1.25%...
Read MoreWill the Grinch Steal Christmas?
The start of the holiday shopping season can provide important clues about the economy's state and, more importantly, overall consumer confidence. So far, the results have been a “mixed bag” with empty malls and busy...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Cases Rise, Stocks Retreat
Stocks retreated last week on rising COVID-19 infections and slow progress on an economic relief bill.The Dow Jones Industrial Average dipped 0.57%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 dropped 0.96%. The Nasdaq Composite index...
Read MoreMarkets & Marriage
Your investment strategy is a lot like a marriage. One day you may feel like everything’s going swimmingly. The next day, there might be an argument over who forgot to load the dishwasher. And even the best marriages and...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Is Stimulus Near?
Stocks marched higher last week on an improving outlook for the passage of a fiscal stimulus package.The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 1.03%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 tacked on 1.67%. The Nasdaq Composite index...
Read MoreCoronavirus Vaccines and the Economy
As the United States sees a rise in cases of COVID-19 across the nation, news of two promising vaccines out of hundreds being tested has offered a ray of hope for a fatigued world.1A positive reaction to these vaccines affects every...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Dow Hits 30,000
Stocks surged last week, ignited by another COVID-19 vaccine announcement, encouraging economic data, and the easing of political uncertainty.The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 2.21%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 added...
Read MoreThe Social Security Administration Announces 2021 COLA
On October 13, 2020, the Social Security Administration (SSA) officially announced that Social Security recipients will receive a 1.3 percent cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for 2021. This adjustment will begin with benefits payable...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Vaccine Triggers Rally
News of a COVID-19 vaccine ignited a rally in economically sensitive stocks and a broad retreat in technology companies last week, though enthusiasm was tempered by reports of rising new infections and fresh lockdowns.The Dow Jones...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: New Infections Increase Anxiety
Despite news of another COVID-19 vaccine candidate, stocks were mixed amid investor anxiety over an increase in new infections and economic lockdowns.The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 0.73%, while the Standard & Poor’s...
Read MoreLong-Term Rates Are Creeping Higher
With all the election chatter and stock market volatility, it may have been easy to miss the ongoing uptrend in long-term interest rates.The yield on the 10-year Treasury bond is sitting just below 1%. Just a few short months ago, the...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Markets React to Election
Stocks soared last week as investors anticipated that a split Congress would raise legislative hurdles to changing corporate taxes and adjusting regulatory oversight of big technology companies.The Dow Jones Industrial Average jumped...
Read More2021 Limits for IRAs, 401(k)s and More
On October 26, the Treasury Department released the 2021 adjusted figures for retirement account savings. Although these adjustments won’t bring any major changes, there are some minor elements to note. 401(k)sThe salary...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: No Stimulus, Stocks Lag
Stock prices dropped last week as hopes for a fiscal stimulus bill faded and investors focused on rising COVID-19 infections, here and abroad.The Dow Jones Industrial Average slid 6.47%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500...
Read MoreElection 2020: Preparing for Any Outcome
As the U.S. presidential election draws near, expect to see more and more headlines that propose, "What will happen next if this person is elected?" or, "What policy changes to prepare for in the next four years?"In reality, however,...
Read MoreElection 2020: Managing Your Emotions
It’s a startling statistic. 45% of consumers with $100,000 or more investable assets expect to make changes to their investments due to the upcoming 2020 presidential election.1Publish Second-guessing your investment strategy is...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: No Stimulus, Stocks Lower
The failure to reach an agreement on a new fiscal stimulus bill soured investor sentiment and sent stocks modestly lower for the week.The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 0.95%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 lost 0.53%....
Read MoreElection 2020: Economic Issues in the Crosshairs
It should come as no surprise to hear the economy is the top issue for voters in the 2020 election. Nearly 8 in ten voters say that the economy will be very important to them when they cast their votes.1But when voters say...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: A Difficult Week for Stocks
Stocks treaded water last week amid fading prospects for a stimulus bill, fears of a second wave of COVID-19 cases, and increasing political and regulatory pressures on Big Tech companies. The Dow Jones Industrial Average added just 0...
Read MoreDow 30 Changes Its Starting Lineup
The Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA), one of the most widely followed stock market indices, has made some key changes to its starting lineup.Salesforce.com, Amgen Inc.and Honeywell International Inc. have replaced Exxon Mobil Corp....
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Stocks Rise, Stimulus Uncertain
Stocks staged a powerful rally last week, riding a wave of optimism over the prospect of the passage of a new fiscal stimulus bill.The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 3.27%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 increased 3.84%....
Read MoreFacts About Medicare Open Enrollment
Medicare’s open enrollment period runs from October 15 to December 7. If you are enrolling in Medicare for the first time, give yourself plenty of time. You may discover that it is much more complex than an employer-sponsored...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Quarterly Report
Stocks advanced last week, propelled by hopes that legislators may reach an agreement for a new fiscal stimulus package and optimism generated by a few corporate deal announcements and initial public offerings.The Dow Jones Industrial...
Read MoreElection 2020: Preparing for Any Outcome
As the U.S. presidential election draws near, expect to see more and more headlines that propose, "What will happen next if this person is elected?" or, "What policy changes to prepare for in the next four years?"In reality, however,...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Stocks Mixed Amid Uncertainty
Stocks were mixed last week as worries that stretched from Washington D.C., where prospects of a new fiscal stimPublishulus bill dimmed, to Europe, which saw an increase of new COVID-19 cases. The Dow Jones Industrial Average declined...
Read MoreHome Builders Confident In Economic Rebound
To some, this may hardly feel like an economy headed for a bright future. But don’t tell that to home builders. Builder confidence in August jumped to an eye-popping 78 in August, according to the Housing Market Index courtesy...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Tech Sector Slip Continues
Stocks slipped as the technology sector remained under pressure and a mid-week announcement by the Federal Reserve failed to inspire investors.The Dow Jones Industrial Average declined 0.03%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500...
Read MoreFootball Is Back
Football is back, which means Summer is coming to a close, days will get shorter, and sweaters will soon be in play. This year, there was no pre-season, so professional football started in September, which coincidentally, is a...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Stocks Continue Downward Slide
Stocks traveled a volatile path last week as investors appeared concerned about the upcoming elections, an uncertain economy, and more delays with additional fiscal stimulus.The Dow Jones Industrial Average slid 1.66%, while the...
Read MoreWhat Are Stock Splits?
Two high-profile companies—Apple and Tesla—have announced stock splits in the past few weeks, which makes it a great time to discuss what’s involved when a company announces a stock split.Remember, any companies...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Stocks Stall as Recovery Continues
A late week sell-off sent stocks broadly lower as investors took some profits after stocks reached all-time highs earlier in the week.The Dow Jones Industrial Average slid 1.82%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 slumped 2.31%...
Read MoreWhat's driving current market behavior?
In the era of COVID-19, and the financial woes it has created, I often get asked, “Why is the stock market holding up so well when the economy appears to be struggling?”To understand why the markets react — or...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Stocks Power Higher
Stocks advanced relentlessly last week on positive COVID-19 developments, encouraging economic data, and a supportive policy shift in the Fed’s approach to its target inflation rate.The Dow Jones Industrial Average increased by...
Read MoreDon’t Overreact in August
One of my favorite Wall Street quotes is from Mark Twain, who said: “October: This is one of the peculiarly dangerous months to speculate in stocks. The others are July, January, September, April, November, May, March, June,...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Stocks Reach New Highs
Stocks powered to another week of gains as the S&P 500 and Nasdaq Composite set multiple new record highs along the way.The Dow Jones Industrial Average was essentially unchanged while the Standard & Poor’s 500 rose by 0...
Read MoreHave you been thinking about life insurance?
In our uncertain climate, it’s unsurprising that when American investors are thinking about their financial strategy, that the topic of life insurance comes up. For some, it’s always been front of mind. For younger...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Stocks and Consumer Prices Rise
Stock prices drifted higher in an otherwise quiet news week, as a slowdown in new COVID-19 cases outweighed a Congressional impasse on a new fiscal-spending measure.The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 1.81%, while the Standard...
Read More30-year Home Loans Fall to Historic Lows
Lately, it can feel like each day brings a new headline about fluctuating market behavior. But amid the ups and downs of 2020, there may be some potential good news on the horizon. On July 16, 2020, the interest rate for a 30-year...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Earnings Season Winds Down
Overlooking stalled efforts by Congress to pass a new fiscal stimulus bill, stocks marched higher last week with the Dow Jones Industrials leading the way and the NASDAQ Composite setting multiple fresh record highs. The Dow Jones...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Stocks Have Mixed Reaction
Stocks were mixed last week amid a busy week of earnings, some troubling economic data, and seemingly little progress on a new fiscal stimulus package.The Dow Jones Industrial Average slipped 0.16%, while the Standard &...
Read MoreWhen Does a Roth Conversion Make Sense?
1-Minute Video: With a traditional IRA, you may qualify for a tax deduction when you invest your money. But later, when you take the money out in retirement, all those distributions are taxed. The Roth IRA is the opposite. It has no...
Read MoreReverse Mortgage - Is It Right For You?
1-Minute Video: In a “regular” mortgage, you make monthly payments to the lender. In a “reverse” mortgage, you receive monthly payments from the lender, and generally don’t have to pay it back for as long...
Read MoreWhy is Laddering a Smart Strategy For Your Finances?
1-Minute Video: Here’s how laddering works. This strategy is based on the investment principle that the longer you commit your money, the higher your rate of return will be. For instance, A 5 year CD pays more than a 1 year CD. A...
Read MoreHow Will Divorce Affect Your Finances?
1-Minute Video: Divorce has a psychological, emotional and financial impact on an entire family. The financial impact can be considerable as income changes and costs for support rise. Be prepared. Statistics show that only 42% of...
Read MoreHow Can You Plan for Long-Term Care?
1-Minute Video: Statistics say there is a seventy percent chance that you or your spouse will experience a need for long-term care! Long-term care includes a range of services and supports you may need to meet your personal care needs....
Read MoreHow Dollar Cost Averaging Can You Make Smart Investments
1-Minute Video: Dollar cost averaging is a stock market investing technique where you buy a fixed dollar amount of a particular investment on a regular schedule, regardless of the share price. More shares are purchased when prices are...
Read MoreTax Planning: How to Prepare for Taxes at the End of the Year
1-Minute Video: Here are some tips to help you lessen your tax burden at the end of the year. First, be aware of any tax changes that will take place in the new year so you can use them to your advantage. Review your cost basis so you...
Read MoreUnderstanding Your Credit Score
1-Minute Video: A credit score is a 3 digit number based upon a number of factors from your financial activities. It is used to determine your creditworthiness for a mortgage, auto loan or credit card. A company called FICO creates...
Read MoreInventorying Your Possessions
Inventorying Your Possessions It is helpful for insurance purposes. It’s great to have insurance against damage and loss, but if you can’t show proof of your possessions, it may result in a protracted settlement process...
Read MoreHow to Double Your Money
1-Minute Video: People often ask us, “How long will it take to double my money?” You can find the answer with the rule of 72. Here’s how it works. Compounding interest is the interest you earn on a growing amount of...
Read MoreHow to Control Your Debt
1-Minute Video: The average American household debt is increasing. Some debt is good, but some debt is bad. Good debt includes borrowing for a home or college education. Good debt is often defined as debt that can help you generate...
Read MoreHow to Choose a Financial Advisor
1-Minute Video: Various financial industries strive to create standards of excellence through accreditation programs. When choosing a Financial Advisor, here are some designations you should look for. A CFP is a Certified Financial...
Read MoreA Decision Not Made is Still a Decision
A Decision Not Made is Still a Decision Indecision can lead to no decision. Investment inaction is played out in many ways, often silently, invisibly, and with potential consequence to an individual’s future financial security....
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