GAUGING THE ECONOMY WITH “SMART TOOLS”
We live in a world of smart phones, smart cars, and smart televisions. So it may come as no surprise to hear that smart economics are trending, too.
WHAT IS AN ANNUITY?
Annuities have a bad reputation. They can be seen as expensive and difficult to understand. But it is important to not jump to any
conclusions. Similar to other financial tools, it is best to ask “what role can annuities play in my overall finances?” rather than to avoid them owing to myths or misconceptions.
THE ROLE OF THE FEDERAL RESERVE
The Federal Reserve is making headlines for how it is handling short-term interest rates, but you may not be aware of the colorful history and wide range of financial responsibilities that fall to the central bank of the United States.
THE VERSATILITY OF LIFE INSURANCE
Life insurance is a versatile financial tool that can play a critical role in a family’s overall financial strategy. However, too often, it’s overlooked and seen as a tool that can play only a more limited role
What Does A Strong Dollar Mean For The U.S. Economy?
Every year, the College Board releases new college cost data and trends in its annual report. The figures published are average cost figures based on a survey of approximately 4,000 colleges across the country.
High Inflation: How Long Will It Last?
In March 2022, the Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U), the most common measure of inflation, rose at an annual rate of 8.5%, the highest level since December 1981. It’s not surprising that a Gallup poll at the end of March found that one out of six Americans considers inflation to be the most important problem facing the United States. When inflation began rising in the spring of 2021, many economists, including policymakers at the Federal Reserve, believed the increase would be transitory and subside over a period of months. One year later, inflation has proven to be more stubborn than expected. It may be helpful to look at some of the forces behind rising prices, the Fed’s plan to combat them, and early signs that inflation may be easing.
Investment Success Is Long-Term Investing
Time is usually the number one contributor to financial success when it comes to investing. Over the short-term, it is nearly impossible to predict whether the financial markets or world economies will go up, down, or even sideways. Historically, indices have gone up more often, especially over rolling periods of time.
Market Downturns Happen. Just How Often?
Most people are not aware just how often financial market downturns occur. Financial markets are known to dip like an elevator (fast) and rise like taking the stairs (slow & steady). While you might prefer to ride in the elevator up, remember that markets rise based on fundamentals and technicals: earnings, growth, yields, yield curves, federal reserve moves, political, geopolitical events, etc. Drops typically occur due to fear of the unknown. If you plan ahead for your goals and needs, you can rest assured the markets are not something to worry about on a daily basis.
Investing In Stocks
Businesses sell shares of stock to investors as a way to raise money to finance expansion, pay off debt, and provide operating capital. Each share of stock represents a proportional share of ownership in the company. As a stockholder, you share in a portion of any profits and growth of the company. Dividends from earnings are paid to shareholders, and growth is realized by the increase in value of the stock. Stock ownership also generally gives you the right to vote on management issues.
Help Wanted: Why Can’t Businesses Find Enough Workers?
The headline U.S. unemployment rate fell from 6.7% at the end of December 2020 to 3.9% in December 2021, marking the biggest one-year improvement in history. While many workers took advantage of this strong rebound in the job market, companies large and small have been struggling with labor shortages.
