Changes in tax laws, insurance regulations, estate planning and the general fluctuations in the marketplace can affect your investment strategies. Our weekly blog will keep you current on everything you need to know to pursue your financial objectives.
Thursday, August 18, 2022
Please don’t confuse the new IRA (Inflation Reduction Act of 2022) with the old IRA (Individual Retirement Account)!As the opening paragraph of the Weekly Market Review points out the act projects to reduce our federal deficit by...
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Monday, August 15, 2022
An improving inflation outlook buoyed investors’ spirits last week, helping lift stocks to solid gains.The Dow Jones Industrial Average advanced 2.92%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 rose 3.26%. The Nasdaq Composite index...
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Wednesday, August 10, 2022
Ever wonder how Social Security benefits are funded? Notable Number 1 in this week’s Weekly Market Review provides a basic overview of where the money comes from. July was a rally month for the market with investors...
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Monday, August 8, 2022
Stocks turned in a mixed performance last week as investors struggled with headlines suggesting that the Fed was unlikely to soon ease up on its current monetary tightening policy.The Dow Jones Industrial Average slipped 0.13%, while...
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Monday, August 1, 2022
Undaunted by another Fed rate hike and news of a contracting economy, the stock market rallied last week on better-than-expected corporate earnings.The Dow Jones Industrial Average increased 2.97%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500...
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Wednesday, July 27, 2022
Which is more important; the number of shares or the value of the shares? Ultimately, most everyone would agree it is the value of the shares that means the most and I would agree, but during difficult markets focusing more on...
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Monday, July 25, 2022
Stocks rallied last week as investor spirits lifted thanks to a better-than-expected start to the second-quarter earnings season.The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 1.95%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 added 2.55%. The...
Read MoreSo far, 2022 has brought surges in inflation fueled by war in Europe, monetary tightening and slower economic growth. As we pass midyear, many of us may be more than a little ready to forget about the first half. Our 2022 theme of...
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Thursday, July 21, 2022
It’s all about inflation right now and how much more work the Federal Reserve will need to do to tame inflation. The opening paragraph of this week’s Weekly Market Review puts our inflation woes in context with the...
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Monday, July 18, 2022
A record-high inflation report, the prospects of a more aggressive Fed, and growing recession fears sent stocks lower– though losses were pared by a Friday rally.The Dow Jones Industrial Average slipped 0.16%, while the Standard...
Read MoreMoney with Murphy: Mid-Year ReflectionOur 2022 theme of downshifting, or slowing of growth, is certainly coming to fruition as we close out the first half of the year. Watch the latest Money with Murphy for some insight into what we...
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Monday, July 11, 2022
In a holiday-shortened trading week, stocks rallied despite mixed economic data and vacillating energy prices and bond yields.The Dow Jones Industrial Average increased 0.77%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 rose 1.94%. The...
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Monday, June 27, 2022
Prospects of cooling inflation powered a rally in stock prices last week despite growing recession concerns.The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 5.39%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 climbed 6.45%. The Nasdaq Composite index...
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Thursday, June 23, 2022
Last week was a bear...literally, with the S&P 500 moving past the 20% negative threshold from the peak at the beginning of this year. Despite a mid-week rally last Wednesday, the same day the Federal Reserve increased the...
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Tuesday, June 21, 2022
Stocks moved lower last week as recession fears deepened following a Fed hike in interest rates and weak economic data.The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 4.79%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 dropped 5.79%. The Nasdaq...
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Wednesday, June 15, 2022
It is an ugly market. Last week the markets sold off about 5% and they are off to a rough start this week pushing us back to the lowest levels seen since early February 2021. The selloff is the result of more economic...
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Monday, June 13, 2022
A higher-than-expected inflation report triggered a sell-off on Friday, leaving stocks in the red for the week.The Dow Jones Industrial Average lost 4.58%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 dropped 5.05%. The Nasdaq Composite index...
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Wednesday, June 8, 2022
Will your Social Security payment eventually be cut? Unfortunately, as things stand currently, the answer is yes. In this week’s Weekly Market Review you can read a one paragraph summation of 2022 Social Security...
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Monday, June 6, 2022
In a holiday-shortened week of volatile trading, stocks surrendered some of the previous week’s strong gains.The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 0.94%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 declined 1.20%. The Nasdaq Composite...
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Tuesday, May 31, 2022
Stocks posted solid gains for the week, buoyed by the release of Fed meeting minutes and upbeat earnings from mid-size and discount retailers.The Dow Jones Industrial Average jumped 6.24%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 advanced...
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Thursday, May 26, 2022
Given the market’s sell off recently, this week’s Weekly Market Review is different. Please take a few minutes to read below with your own situation in mind. These are action items to help you best manage through...
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Monday, May 23, 2022
Given the market’s sell off recently, this week’s Weekly Market Review is different. Please take a few minutes to read below with your own situation in mind. These are action items to help you best manage through...
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Tuesday, May 17, 2022
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Monday, April 25, 2022
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Tuesday, April 5, 2022
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Monday, March 28, 2022
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Monday, March 21, 2022
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Monday, March 7, 2022
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Tuesday, February 22, 2022
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Monday, February 14, 2022
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Monday, February 7, 2022
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Tuesday, February 1, 2022
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Monday, January 3, 2022
In this weeks recap: Despite Omicron concerns, stocks end year mostly positive, with strong holiday sales figures.
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We like to keep our clients up-to-date with industry news and trends!
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Monday, December 20, 2021
In this weeks recap: Fed tightens money policy.
Read MoreClimate action is front and center for both the Biden administration and many of the world’s largest companies. Read my latest Markets in a Minute for a look at the opportunities and obstacles in the race to a clean-energy future and...
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Tuesday, December 14, 2021
In this weeks recap: Milder Omicron news boosts stocks.
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Monday, December 6, 2021
In this weeks recap: Market copes with unpleasant news; Powell surprises, Omicron concerns, and a less than stellar jobs report disappoints.
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Monday, November 29, 2021
In this weeks recap: COVID-19 variant clobbers markets.
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Monday, November 22, 2021
In this weeks recap: Markets react to growing COVID-19 infections and potential successor to Powell.
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Monday, November 15, 2021
In this weeks recap: Stocks tap the brakes after signs of higher inflation.
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Monday, November 8, 2021
In this weeks recap: Tapering news, profits, and other encouraging data lifts stocks.
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Monday, November 1, 2021
In this weeks recap: Earnings build while GDP slows.
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Monday, October 25, 2021
In this weeks recap: Strong week on Wall Street, despite concerns with inflation, supply chain, and other matters
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Monday, October 18, 2021
In this weeks recap: The Fed unveils tapering plans; investor optimism rises.
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Monday, October 11, 2021
In this weeks recap: Debt ceiling raised until December; employment numbers paint confusing picture.
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Monday, October 4, 2021
In this weeks recap: Stalemate in the Capitol; Powell says inflation may stay longer than expected.
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Monday, September 27, 2021
In this weeks recap: Financial contagion concerns and a positive word from the Fed bookend a wild week.
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Wednesday, September 22, 2021
As I type this the market is moving downward in a an ugly day of trading, mostly for concerns around a giant Chinese real estate company, Evergrande, possibly not being able to cover debt obligations. The ripple effect on banks and...
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Monday, September 20, 2021
In this weeks recap: Despite signs of a good economy, stocks have a lackluster week.
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Monday, September 13, 2021
In this weeks recap: Delta variant continues to concern the markets; labor market shows positive signs.
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Wednesday, September 8, 2021
The annual Trustees Report for Social Security has become an annual reminder and sobering wake-up call that financially preparing for your retirement today is critical! This week’s Weekly Market Review highlights the takeaways...
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Tuesday, September 7, 2021
In this weeks recap: Stocks mixed as U.S. copes with economic data and Delta variant.
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Monday, August 30, 2021
In this weeks recap: Federal Reserve says tapering likely in 2021, but no interest rate hikes for now.
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Wednesday, August 25, 2021
This week’s review is a sobering one with a news cycle that has been relentlessly difficult to witness. As this week’s Weekly Market Review outlines, the investment markets often times do not acknowledge the emotional...
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Monday, August 23, 2021
In this weeks recap: A Fed taper may loom; economic data mixed.
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Tuesday, August 17, 2021
In this weeks recap: Passage of infrastructure bill in Senate boosts DJIA and S&P; Nasdaq stays flat.
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Wednesday, August 11, 2021
In this weeks recap: Despite Delta variant fears, stocks rise on strong jobs, strong earnings reports.
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Tuesday, August 3, 2021
Insurance companies and the insurance industry may be the most regulated industry of all. How much risk they can take, how much they charge, how much their profit margins can be are all metrics that are closely monitored and regulated....
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Monday, August 2, 2021
In this weeks recap: Stocks open week on big highs, but end with small losses due to Delta concerns and a lower GDP.
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Tuesday, July 27, 2021
It was March of 2009, close to the time of my wedding when I received a letter stating that my IRS tax refund for my 2008 income taxes would soon be deposited into my checking account. I knew something was off because I had not even...
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We like to keep our clients up-to-date with industry news and trends! Click HERE to read Retirement Times - July 2021 Issue We hope you enjoy! Levine Group
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Monday, July 26, 2021
In this weeks recap: Markets overcome reaction to latest Delta variant news.
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Wednesday, July 21, 2021
Is your home your most valuable asset? Until the last 30-40 years, for most Americans the answer to that question was yes. Over that time frame, pensions from employers mostly dried up and were replaced by 401(k)s and similar...
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Monday, July 19, 2021
In this weeks recap: Stocks retreat as inflation advances.
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Tuesday, July 13, 2021
Most people would not quit their job without the strong prospect of getting a better job, at least most sensible people. The third paragraph of this week’s Weekly Market Review details the highest “quit level” on...
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Monday, July 12, 2021
In this weeks recap: Stocks edge higher in short week.
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Tuesday, July 6, 2021
In this weeks recap: Employment reports and consumer confidence are up; stock market replies favorably.
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Friday, July 2, 2021
If you google the “side effects of covid-19” you will get a long list of medical symptoms you would expect. However, it is the economic side effects of covid-19 that continue to play out in surprising ways. The economic...
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We like to keep our clients up-to-date with industry news and trends! Click HERE to read the Retirement Times - June 2021 Issue We hope you enjoy! Levine Group
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Monday, June 28, 2021
In this weeks recap: Stocks reach all-time highs and the housing market showed significant improvement.
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Wednesday, June 23, 2021
In just nine days, some may experience an eviction or foreclosure as the national moratorium is about to come to an end. I suspect you won’t see nearly as many foreclosures as evictions. Many of those who own property and...
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Monday, June 21, 2021
In this weeks recap: The Fed signals interest rate hikes.
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Wednesday, June 16, 2021
It’s popular to “Buy American” and I agree that we should try to spend our money with businesses who are based here in the United States. I also loved the “Shop Local” movement that has gained a lot of...
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Monday, June 14, 2021
In this week’s recap: Stocks kept cool, even as inflation came in hot.
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Tuesday, June 8, 2021
17 years is how much longer someone born in 2021 will live compared to someone born in 1921. An increase of nearly 28% from 60.8 years to 77.8 years as Notable Number 4 in the attached Weekly Market Review details. Certainly, many of...
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Monday, June 7, 2021
In this weeks recap: Positive labor numbers lead stocks to a modest gain.
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Tuesday, June 1, 2021
Have you ever played the game “what I’m going to do if I win the Powerball”? It’s a lot of fun to daydream about all the what-if scenarios. While I don’t play the lottery or advocate that you play the...
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Tuesday, June 1, 2021
In this week’s recap: Upbeat feelings boost the stock market, with America reopening ahead of Memorial Day.
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Friday, May 28, 2021
What if you had a an income of $10,000 per month, but spent $20,000 per month? How long would the credit card companies or banks let you play that game before they cut you off? Later this week, the White House will outline its spending...
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Monday, May 24, 2021
In this weeks recap: Inflation concerns continue as the Fed weighs scaling back of bond purchases.
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Wednesday, May 19, 2021
Should it continue to be called the S&P 500 Index or be renamed as the S&P 5 Index? Apple, Microsoft, Amazon, Facebook, and Google (Alphabet) dominate the index performance as you can read in this week’s Weekly Market Review....
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Monday, May 17, 2021
In this weeks recap: As consumer prices take a big step up, stocks take a step in the other direction.
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Monday, May 10, 2021
In a world where interest in speculative investments, trading frequency, and government assistance are at all-time highs, so are home prices and stock market levels. Is this all a big coincidence? My opinion – it’s not a...
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Monday, May 10, 2021
In this weeks recap: Mixed market results as labor numbers cope with uncertainty.
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Wednesday, May 5, 2021
$6,000,000,000,000 – it takes a lot of zeros to get to 6 trillion dollars, an amount that represents more than one-fourth of our economy. The rub, we the tax paying citizens of this fine country will have to pay that back. In...
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Monday, May 3, 2021
In this weeks recap: Stocks struggle to find their way amid several noteworthy earnings reports from corporations.
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Thursday, April 29, 2021
Don’t panic just yet. The stock market rollercoaster resumed last week based on the expectation of a significant increase to the capital gains tax for wealthy investors, but this proposed bill is far from being passed. Proper...
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Monday, April 26, 2021
In this weeks recap: Mixed signals lead to a choppy week.
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We like to keep our clients up-to-date with industry news and trends! Click HERE to read the Retirement Times - April 2021 Issue We hope you enjoy! Levine Group
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Tuesday, April 20, 2021
How can something fifty times thinner than a human hair be mass produced and highly critical to nearly every facet of our lives? Notable Number 3 in this week’s Weekly Market Review details this unbelievably thin and fragile...
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Monday, April 19, 2021
In this weeks recap: Good indicators for earnings season and other economic data lead to record highs for stocks.
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Monday, April 12, 2021
Economically speaking, you would never know that a year ago we were mired in a mess of unemployment, fear, and uncertainty. The stock market has long been a leading economic indicator moving in front of the actual economy and 2020...
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Monday, April 12, 2021
In this weeks recap: Tech stocks and strong indicators lead a week of economic advancement.
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Monday, April 5, 2021
We hope this finds you refreshed by the long Easter weekend. While it is so easy to get tangled in the day to day problems, I love slowing down to remember and celebrate the single most important event in human history. He rose up from...
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Monday, April 5, 2021
In this weeks recap: Markets react positively to infrastructure proposals; S&P 500 rises above 4,000 for the first time.
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We like to keep our clients up-to-date with industry news and trends! Click HERE to read the Retirement Times - March 2021 Issue Hope you enjoy! Levine Group
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Monday, March 29, 2021
Who spends vs. who saves helped shape the most recent stimulus bill, and is likely playing a role in framing the expected tax-law changes. Notable Number 2 in this week’s Weekly Market Review details how much of the expected...
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Monday, March 29, 2021
In this weeks recap: Weakness in tech and high-growth stocks leads to a rocky week; Yellen and Powell signal optimism.
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Tuesday, March 23, 2021
What will you do if your taxes go up? Almost every client conversation I’m having these days contains questions about tax law changes. Many are speculating that tax hikes will be significant, no matter your level of income. I...
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Monday, March 22, 2021
In this weeks recap: A week of ups and downs leaves modest losses at weeks end.
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Tuesday, March 16, 2021
Have the citizens of our great country all of a sudden become better savers? The third paragraph of this week’s Weekly Market Review suggests that we have improved our ability to save our money. There isn’t much joy in...
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Monday, March 15, 2021
In this weeks recap: The White House signs COVID-19 fiscal relief bill into law; the economy reacted positively.
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Tuesday, March 9, 2021
25,400,000 jobs were lost last March and April here in the United States as employers scrambled into survival mode as COVID shutdowns and lockdowns occurred. The debate will never end if the measures and steps taken were the correct...
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Monday, March 8, 2021
In this weeks recap: Stocks have a mixed reaction to rising bond yields and increasing inflation.
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Thursday, March 4, 2021
Have you ever heard the expression “the tail is wagging the dog?” This simply means that something small or less significant is controlling something large and more significant. This happens all the time with the stock...
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Monday, March 1, 2021
In this weeks recap: Rising bond yields deliver a blow to stocks; Fed Chair affirms commitment to current money policy.
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Thursday, February 25, 2021
Dave Ramsey has built an empire with his strong stance on getting out of debt as fast as you possibly can. While I strongly agree that debt can choke away people’s financial dreams, Dave began his spirited attack on debt in 1992,...
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Monday, February 22, 2021
In this weeks recap: Accommodative Fed policies lead to inflation concerns.
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Tuesday, February 16, 2021
Well, like many of you reading this, I’m iced in and working from home. Do you remember the good old days when a snow day meant the day off from work? Well, technology has changed things just a bit. With a phone and internet...
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Monday, February 15, 2021
In this weeks recap: Vaccinations and declining case numbers result in economic optimism; Fed Chair says no change for now.
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We like to keep our clients up-to-date with industry news and trends! Click HERE to read the Retirement Times - February 2021 Issue Hope you enjoy! Levine Group
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Tuesday, February 9, 2021
Will Social Security be there for you when you are old enough to claim it? Notable Number one in this week’s Weekly Market Review details a statistic that shows a lot of pessimism related to the future of Social Security payments...
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Monday, February 8, 2021
In this weeks recap: The markets went back to basics this week, showing optimism for positive COVID-19 news.
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Monday, February 1, 2021
In this weeks recap: After setting new highs, market rattled by unexpected trading phenomenon.
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We like to keep our clients up-to-date with industry news and trends! Click HERE to read Retirement Times - January 2021 Issue Hope you enjoy! Levine Group
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Monday, January 25, 2021
In this weeks recap: A streak of optimism on fiscal stimulus and vaccines boosts the markets; Yellen tells Congress to “act big.”
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Friday, January 22, 2021
This week’s Weekly Market Review summarizes the how the market has historically performed during the 1st year of a President’s term, the "American Rescue Plan" proposed by the Biden administration, and how inflation has...
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Monday, January 18, 2021
In this weeks recap: Mixed news elicits a mixed reaction from the markets; incoming Biden Administration outlines stimulus plan.
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Wednesday, January 13, 2021
I’ve always said that the stock prices of well-run businesses in aggregate (the stock market) are resilient, but that has never been more evident than over the last year. Tested and tried in so many different ways, the S&P 500...
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Monday, January 11, 2021
In this weeks recap: Despite continued COVID-19 woes and unrest in Washington D.C., the stock market starts 2021 on a high.
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Friday, January 8, 2021
Happy New Year! We can all agree that it feels good to put 2020 behind us. So many experienced loss in either health, economics, or both. Certainly, the loss of life experienced by many has been overwhelming and our hearts go out to...
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Monday, January 4, 2021
In this week’s recap: Happy New Year! Stocks hit record highs and have varied reactions on stimulus checks and another potential vaccine.
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Monday, December 21, 2020
The market is having a relatively non-eventful day as I type this on Monday, December 21st. Some may find that surprising given the relief bill Congress finally passed. That bill is detailed more in the attached Weekly Market Review....
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Monday, December 21, 2020
In this weeks recap: A rollout for a COVID-19 vaccine led to a positive reaction from the markets; stimulus talks continue.
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Wednesday, December 16, 2020
I’m typing this week’s Weekly Market Review from my home office which generally is a dust-collecting, catch-all room in our home. Our five-year old middle child didn’t feel great last Tuesday after school and tested...
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Monday, December 14, 2020
In this weeks recap: Rising number of COVID-19 cases and no progress on a stimulus bill lead to a bumpy week on Wall Street; U.K. anticipates “No-Deal” for Brexit.
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We like to keep our clients up-to-date with industry news and trends! Click HERE to read Retirement Times - December 2020 Issue Hope you enjoy! Levine Group
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Tuesday, December 8, 2020
The cost of college has skyrocketed as Notable Number three in this week’s Weekly Market Review details. This statistic hit home for me as I graduated from college in 2001. The fact that 1 year of college today cost what 4 years...
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Monday, December 7, 2020
In this weeks recap: Promising signs of a fiscal stimulus package inspire an upward week for stocks; retailers’ extended “Black Friday” sales produce mixed results.
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Tuesday, December 1, 2020
The fact is we don’t know what is going to happen with the stock market in the short run. Investors are best served to take a long-term approach when investing in markets that go both up and down in the short-run. Economist and...
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Monday, November 30, 2020
In this weeks recap: Dow Jones Industrial Average hits 30,000 milestone in response to promising vaccine news and lessening political uncertainty; former Fed chair Janet Yellen nominated as Secretary of the Treasury.
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Tuesday, November 24, 2020
2020 will be a different type of Thanksgiving for so many as the virus continues to dictate a change in plans. In a year of enduring hardships, the original Thanksgiving comes to mind. Pilgrim settlers celebrating a good harvest with...
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Monday, November 23, 2020
In this weeks recap: New COVID-19 infections drive market anxieties, despite anticipated vaccines; Fed Chair Powell warns that continued infections may limit economic activity for months.
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Tuesday, November 17, 2020
The investment markets remain optimistic about the future earnings of publicly traded companies and can see a hopeful light at the end of the tunnel regarding the pandemic. And for good reason, for the second Monday in a row, a US...
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Monday, November 16, 2020
In this weeks recap: A COVID-19 vaccine spurs a stock market rally, even as more cases are reported and some areas renew lockdowns.
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Wednesday, November 11, 2020
Most investors know you can’t time the market, but so many of us never stop trying. Conventional wisdom among many investors, especially Republicans, is that the stock market would turn south with a Joe Biden win. While there is...
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Monday, November 9, 2020
In this weeks recap: Markets react positively to the election, seeing promise in a divided government; unemployment rate falls.
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Monday, November 2, 2020
Did you know that the third quarter was the best quarter for the US Economy on record? The second quarter was the worst quarter on record for the economy…funny how that works isn’t it. Are you as ready as I am to see...
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Monday, November 2, 2020
In this weeks recap: With no fiscal stimulus anticipated and election around the corner, stocks slumped through a difficult week.
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Tuesday, October 27, 2020
In this weeks recap: Stocks lagged after another week with no fiscal stimulus; the labor market seemed to improve despite a rise in COVID-19 cases.
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Monday, October 26, 2020
Do your investments match your goals? Do they match your timeline or risk tolerance? Are you on track to have enough saved to retire when you want? If close to retirement; how do you transform that nest egg into a useable, reliable...
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Wednesday, October 21, 2020
Growth in the markets so far this year has really been carried by extreme growth in just a few, but very large, companies as detailed in the below commentary from ASSETMARK, a vendor we have a relationship with. After a strong stock...
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Monday, October 19, 2020
In this weeks recap: A difficult week for stocks, reacting to delayed stimulus, little good news on COVID-19 treatment, and jobless claims.
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Monday, October 12, 2020
One political football that is back in the limelight heading towards the election is health insurance reform. Like most complicated issues, there is no easy solution to create the coverages we all want at a price we all like. The price...
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Monday, October 12, 2020
In this weeks recap: Stocks soar, despite mixed messages on fiscal stimulus.
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Wednesday, October 7, 2020
Bad news sells newspapers, gets clicks and makes my phone ring and email ping. It was a busy October 2nd for me as the Friday headlines read that the stock market was plummeting due to the President having COVID. In all fairness, it...
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Monday, October 5, 2020
In this weeks recap: Stocks advance with hopes of a new stimulus, end the week up, despite no new deal and President Trumps illness.
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Monday, September 28, 2020
Merriam-Webster defines capitalism as follows: an economic system characterized by private or corporate ownership of capital goods, by investments that are determined by private decision, and by prices, production, and the...
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Monday, September 28, 2020
In this weeks recap: Stocks have a mixed reaction to ongoing uncertainty; additional fiscal stimulus on hold.
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Monday, September 21, 2020
As always, we hope you find this week’s Weekly Market Review both informative and interesting. Click HERE for the Weekly Market Review Trevor N. Coe, CFP®
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Monday, September 21, 2020
In this weeks recap: The tech sector slip continues for stocks; the Federal Reserve signals that interest rates will not be increased for some time.
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Monday, September 14, 2020
In this weeks recap: Stocks continued a downward slide in response to continued uncertainty; fiscal stimulus still delayed.
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Thursday, September 10, 2020
Clients will often hear me say “organize your financial life so that when a great opportunity presents itself, you are financially ready”. March presented one of those opportunities that if you were ready for, would have...
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Tuesday, September 8, 2020
In this weeks recap: Stocks stall late in the week, thanks to tech markets slide. The jobs recovery makes continued progress.
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Monday, August 31, 2020
The challenge and cost of playing it safe with your investments has never been higher than it is right now. Conservative investors and retirees looking for non-stock type investments are finding terribly low yields and interest...
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Monday, August 31, 2020
In this weeks recap: Stocks power higher, while the Dow makes a few changes.
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We like to keep our clients up-to-date with industry news and trends! Click HERE to read Retirement Times - August 2020 Issue Hope you enjoy! Levine Group
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Monday, August 24, 2020
Do you want to become financially secure? How about wealthy? Becoming a good investor is necessary to becoming wealthy unless you are just plain lucky and inherit a fortune or get that elusive Powerball jackpot. Arguably the...
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Monday, August 24, 2020
In this weeks recap: Stocks reached new highs, erasing steep losses from February and March.
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Monday, August 17, 2020
In this weeks recap: stocks rise, and consumer prices jump; COVID-19 cases slow; Congressional talks stall.
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Monday, August 10, 2020
Are you disciplined? We talk to our children constantly about building healthy habits and being disciplined, but the truth is that much of our society is pretty undisciplined, especially when it comes to finances. As a financial...
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Monday, August 10, 2020
In this weeks recap: Stocks rise as earnings season winds to an end; no results in fiscal stimulus talks.
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Monday, August 3, 2020
Are you covered by a retirement plan at work? Notable Number 3 in this week’s Weekly Market Review details how workers in Colorado who are not covered by an employer’s retirement plan, such as a 401(k), will now be covered...
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Monday, August 3, 2020
In this weeks recap: stocks have a mixed reaction to earnings, economic data, and a potential stimulus.
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Tuesday, July 28, 2020
Lawmakers will once again be in focus this week as they debate additional relief efforts to combat the economic mess COVID-19 has created. Statistics like the ones found in in the 2nd paragraph of the WMR certainly are driving...
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Monday, July 27, 2020
In this weeks recap: stocks slip after heavier jobless claims and U.S.-China strife.
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We like to keep our clients up-to-date with industry news and trends! Click HERE to read Retirement Times - July 2020 Issue Hope you enjoy! Levine Group
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Tuesday, July 21, 2020
What in the world is school going to look like this fall? If you have school age children, that question is front and center. Each and every family has different circumstances, different inner-circles of family and support, different...
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Monday, July 20, 2020
In this weeks recap: stocks see a mixed week, as COVID-19 cases rise, and news of vaccine emerges.
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Monday, July 13, 2020
What do we really need? In our church small group meeting last night (zoom version), that was the revelation that 2020 has delivered to many of us. With so many things taken away or postponed in 2020, it begs the question of what do...
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Friday, July 10, 2020
In this weeks recap: stocks gain after volatile week, despite COVID-19 acceleration.
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Monday, July 6, 2020
In this wee’s recap: despite continued COVID-19 concerns, markets react positively to upbeat economic data.
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Thursday, July 2, 2020
FROM GENERATION TO GENERATION - Levine Group welcomes founder’s grandson to role in 57-year old financial services business
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Monday, June 29, 2020
Click HERE for the Weekly Market Review
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Monday, June 29, 2020
This is a special edition regarding the Feds creation of money during the pandemic!
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Wednesday, June 24, 2020
Will you earn money by working an income-paying job in retirement? The statistic found in Notable Number 1 in this week’s Weekly Market Review states that the majority of those surveyed are open to the idea.
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Monday, June 22, 2020
In this weeks recap: as fears of economic shutdown diminish, the U.S. economy gains momentum.
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Monday, June 15, 2020
Click HERE for the Weekly Market Review
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Monday, June 15, 2020
In this weeks recap: increase in COVID-19 cases, matched with downbeat Federal Reserve forecast, weighed on markets.
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We like to keep our clients up-to-date with industry news and trends! Click HERE to read the Retirement Times - June 2020 Issue Hope you enjoy! Levine Group
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Tuesday, June 9, 2020
A V-shaped recovery of the stock market is what we were all hoping for back in March, and a few months later, that is exactly what most stock charts look like going back to mid-February. The current question many market watchers and...
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Monday, June 8, 2020
In this weeks recap: U.S. jobs report and a surging market build optimism for global economic recovery.
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Monday, June 1, 2020
2020 – What a sad year we are living through. We hope this week’s note finds you and your family both safe and well. May God bless you during this time of tragedy, sorrow and sickness. Is it advantageous to pay extra on...
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Monday, June 1, 2020
In this weeks recap: solid gains following a short trading week; economic reopening inspires optimism.
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Wednesday, May 27, 2020
What does a visit to the doctor cost? The answer can vary greatly depending on who is paying for the visit. Read Notable Number 4 in this week’s Weekly Market Review closely. If you have turned 65, gone on Medicare, and then had...
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Tuesday, May 26, 2020
In this week’s recap: Markets rally in reply to positive comments from Fed Chair Powell and further optimism for economic recovery. Look at #6 when you click on the link below – I was worried about this from the start!!
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Monday, May 18, 2020
In this weeks recap: Powell paints a somber picture for recovery, and the markets slip in reaction.
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Monday, May 18, 2020
Click HERE for the Weekly Market Review As always, we hope you find the Weekly Market Review both informative and interesting. Have a nice week. Sincerely, Trevor N. Coe, CFP®
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Monday, May 11, 2020
Have a good week. Sincerely, Trevor N. Coe, CFP®
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Monday, May 11, 2020
In this weeks recap: Unemployment reaches an historic low, while stocks climbed in response to economic re-openings.
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Monday, May 4, 2020
In this week’s recap: Promising drug trials and plans to ease public lockdowns turn thoughts to economic normalization.
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Monday, May 4, 2020
There is one giant financial difference between the Federal and State governments. The states have to annually balance their budgets (all except Vermont) whereas the Federal Government can and has run budget deficits…record...
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Monday, April 27, 2020
We are all hearing more about the silver linings from this quarantine/social distancing experience. A slower more quiet pace of life has been embraced by many people stuck at home and distanced from their normal rhythms. At home...
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Monday, April 27, 2020
In this weeks recap: Markets react to the plunging oil prices, corporate earnings, and the first attempts to restart the U.S. economy.
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Monday, April 20, 2020
From the local business to our elected officials - economic health vs. physical health has become the question, the battle, and the balancing act almost everyone is trying to figure out. The following questions all of us are asking...
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Monday, April 20, 2020
In this weeks recap: The White House makes plans to reopen the economy, as analysts examine the first-hard economic data reckoning the U.S. reaction to COVID-19.
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Monday, April 13, 2020
What would you do if you inherited $1 million today? Would you spend it or invest it? Notable Number 2 in this week’s Weekly Market Review contains a statistic that probably won’t surprise you. Whether updates on the virus...
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Monday, April 13, 2020
In this weeks recap: A broad stock market rally, promising signs with COVID-19, and another Federal Reserve program ahead.
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Monday, April 6, 2020
Inside the WMR are updates on the oil industry, the PPP loan program from the SBA, unemployment claims, and a stat regarding how many folks did not have that sufficient emergency account. As always we hope you find it both interesting...
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Monday, April 6, 2020
In addition to this weeks By The Numbers, please read some good information about Bear Markets. In this weeks recap: Continued COVID-19-related volatility in the markets as oil and energy prices sink in reaction.
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Monday, March 30, 2020
As always, please find attached this week’s Weekly Market Review which is chocked-full of timely information. The CARES Act was signed into law at the end of last week. It’s a giant bill and probably has some impact or...
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Monday, March 30, 2020
In this weeks recap: Markets swing upward as the Federal Reserve and Congress move stimulus forward.
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Tuesday, March 24, 2020
There have been A LOT of scary facts going around regarding COVID-19, but also a flurry of “positive news” items to lift our spirits. Wishing you and your family the best. Remember that our most important tool during times...
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Monday, March 23, 2020
How About Some GOOD News for a Change?
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Friday, March 20, 2020
Bear Markets. Now What? Bear Markets and Past Market Declines.
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Monday, March 16, 2020
In this weeks recap: Continuing concerns over COVID-19, aided by cuts in oil production overseas, contributed to continued market volatility.
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Friday, March 13, 2020
Good afternoon - This email is a bit long, but if you are a client of ours, please take a few minutes and give it a read. Many people have asked me how I’m doing these last few weeks. We are VERY busy, but good, and I appreciate...
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Monday, March 9, 2020
As always, we hope you find the Weekly Market Review both informative and interesting. Click HERE for the Weekly Market Review Sincerely, Trevor N. Coe, CFP Return to Our Blog page to read other posts
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Monday, March 9, 2020
In this weeks recap: U.S. stocks finish higher after a wild trading week; the Federal Reserve cuts short-term interest rates; Treasury yields decline; the latest jobs report out of Washington shows no falloff for hiring.
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Monday, March 2, 2020
In this weeks recap: Major equity indices correct as Wall Street reacts to coronavirus updates, consumer confidence indices are at high levels, and the pace of new home sales increases.
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Thursday, February 27, 2020
Please see attached for information on the Coronavirus Click HERE for information on the Coronavirus
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Monday, February 24, 2020
In this weeks recap: Wall Street grapples with coronavirus unknowns; new Federal Reserve meeting minutes appear; existing home sales retreat; the price of gold climbs.
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We like to keep our clients up-to-date with industry news and trends! Click HERE to read the Retirement Times - February 2020 Issue Hope you enjoy! Levine Group
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Monday, February 17, 2020
As always, we hope you enjoy this week’s Weekly Market Review. Click HERE for the Weekly Market Review Sincerely, Trevor N. Coe, CFP Return to Our Blog page to read other posts
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Monday, February 17, 2020
In this weeks recap: stock indexes rise, Jerome Powell reports on monetary policy to Congress, inflation hits a 15-month peak, and new data on retail sales and consumer sentiment appears.
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Monday, February 10, 2020
The importance of getting started early on your path to retirement can’t be underestimated. The time value of money (TMV) is the most important facet of long-term investing. Consider this simple comparison given the current $6...
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Monday, February 10, 2020
In this weeks recap: stocks rally, China schedules tariff cuts, January hiring tops expectations, and a key gauge of manufacturing activity improves.
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Monday, February 3, 2020
In this weeks recap: coronavirus concerns ripple through global stock markets; the Fed makes a slight monetary policy adjustment; consumer confidence rises; the government makes its first estimate of fourth-quarter growth.
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The January 2020 Issue of Industry Insights is now available!
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Monday, January 27, 2020
It’s been a long time since we have experienced an economic recession and a long-lasting major stock market correction; almost 11 years in fact. Investors remain optimistic about the economy and their investments and for good reason...
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Monday, January 27, 2020
In this weeks recap: stock and commodity traders turn cautious as the coronavirus reaches America; home sales increase even with the current housing market’s slim inventory.
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We like to keep our clients up-to-date with industry news and trends! Hope you enjoy!
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Tuesday, January 21, 2020
In this weeks recap: U.S. equity benchmarks hit fresh record highs; one trade deal is signed, and Congress approves another; builders break ground on more residential projects.
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Monday, January 13, 2020
Surprising to many, the stock market did not crash last week amidst tension and military activity between the US and Iran. As you will read in the Weekly Market Review, the stock market has recently demonstrated over and over again...
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Monday, January 13, 2020
In this weeks recap: Stocks end up higher and oil ends up lower after an up-and-down week, as traders react to events in the Middle East and the data in the December unemployment report.
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Monday, January 6, 2020
What a decade for investors it was! In fact, as you will read in the Weekly Market Review, the last half century has been pretty amazing for investors. However, the noise for investors never stops.
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Monday, January 6, 2020
In this weeks recap: Oil prices spike after a U.S. airstrike in Iran raises supply disruption concerns; a manufacturing activity index disappoints; stocks are little changed following an abbreviated trading week.
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We like to keep our clients up-to-date with industry news and trends!
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Monday, December 30, 2019
In addition, great information on the recently passed SECURE Act... Have a Happy New Year!
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Friday, December 27, 2019
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you and your loved ones! 2019 has been a remarkable year with investors experiencing returns that haven’t been rivaled since 1997, when I was graduating senior from Russellville High School....
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Tuesday, December 17, 2019
They did it! Our Congress, saddled with a dreadful approval rating, agreed on a spending bill last week avoiding another government shutdown. Notable Number 2 of the Weekly Market Review details how long it would take to pay down the...
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Monday, December 16, 2019
In this weeks recap: the U.S. and China reach a phase-one trade deal, the Fed leaves the benchmark interest rate alone, and November retail sales come in below expectations.
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Monday, December 9, 2019
In this weeks recap: stocks ride out a choppy week, as traders react to a potential delay for a phase-one U.S.-China trade deal and a surprising jobs report.
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Monday, December 9, 2019
Low interest rates are great for borrowers buying homes, cars, and capitalizing business ventures. Over the last dozen years, the very low interest rates have been accommodative to those taking loans, but low rates also have their...
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The November 2019 Issue of Industry Insights is now available!
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Monday, December 2, 2019
From a financial perspective, Monday the 2nd and Tuesday the 3rd, are some of the biggest days of the year. Monday, December 2nd - With 86% of Americans feeling comfortable shopping online, Cyber Monday is projected to break last...
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Monday, December 2, 2019
In this weeks recap: a shortened trading week sees additional gains for the major stock benchmarks, as optimism about a new trade pact with China outweighs doubts; household spending rises, but confidence declines.
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Tuesday, November 26, 2019
Most days I feel like the luckiest man on Earth and if you have been around me much, you have probably heard me vocalize that. Of course we have our problems, but I truly feel that God has blessed me beyond what I could have ever...
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Monday, November 25, 2019
Click Here to view the Weekly Economic Update
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Monday, November 18, 2019
In this week’s recap: the Dow crests 28,000; more hints emerge that the U.S. and China could be heading toward a new trade pact; retail sales rise.
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Monday, November 18, 2019
The Rule of 72 is a fun math equation that is easy and always true. Take the number 72 and divide it by the annual return you expect to get and it will tell you how long it will take you to double your money; for example, 72 divided...
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The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has announced cost-of-living adjustments for 2020, which affect dollar limitations for retirement plans and other retirement-related values. All limits increased from 2019 to 2020. The 2020 limits...
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Monday, November 11, 2019
Risk on or risk off? That is the question investors must be asking themselves right now. The stock market continues to set new records in both all-time highs and bull market duration. Those investors who have maintained a higher risk...
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Monday, November 11, 2019
In this weeks recap: the Dow and S&P 500 extend their winning streaks, even with conflicting messages emerging about U.S.-China trade negotiations; a gauge of U.S. business activity improves.
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Open Enrollment: 93% of Americans Are Making This Big Mistake With Their Healthcare. Read more about it here...
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Monday, November 4, 2019
Last Wednesday the Federal Reserve cut rates for the third time this year. If your mortgage rate is 4.00% or higher, it is a great time to discuss a potential refinance with a banker or mortgage lender. Many factors weigh into that...
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Monday, November 4, 2019
In this weeks recap: stock indices again set records, the Fed makes its third rate cut of the year, October’s employment report is a nice surprise, and U.S. and Chinese trade negotiators make some progress.
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We all want quality health care at reasonable prices, but will single-payer actually create better care through administrative efficiency? Advocates for a single-payer health care system claim Medicare has lower administrative costs...
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Monday, October 28, 2019
In this week’s recap: stocks flirt with record highs, China and the U.S. continue negotiations toward a trade deal, and consumer sentiment improves.
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Monday, October 21, 2019
Long-Term Care Insurance is a fun topic right? Unfortunately, a majority of aging adults will need some level of long-term care, generally towards the end of life.
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Monday, October 21, 2019
In this weeks recap: the S&P 500 and Nasdaq Composite outperform the Dow Industrials, earnings season gets underway, and retail sales retreat for the first time since winter.
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We like to keep our clients up-to-date with industry news and trends! The October edition of the Retirement Times newsletter is now available...
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Monday, October 14, 2019
The United States of America’s population of 330 million represents 4.28% of the globe’s total population of 7.7 billion people. The United States stock market represents 55% of the globe’s publicly traded stock.
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Monday, October 14, 2019
In this weeks recap: Stocks pushed higher, the mood changed in the trade saga between U.S. and China, and quarterly earnings reports arrived.
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Monday, October 7, 2019
Modern medicine is amazing! From heart attacks to cancer treatments, the survival rates of serious medical issues and diseases have sky rocketed over the last twenty to thirty years. Unfortunately, the cost associated with modern...
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Monday, October 7, 2019
In this weeks recap: an index of manufacturing activity hits a 10-year low, the jobless rate falls to a 50-year low, and the Nasdaq Composite outperforms the S&P 500 and Dow Jones Industrial Average.
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Monday, September 30, 2019
This week’s Weekly Market Review details the punt elected official used to allow our country’s new fiscal year to start October 1st. The government expects 3.2 trillion dollars in receipts, but unfortunately is scheduled...
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Monday, September 30, 2019
In this weeks recap: the S&P 500 loses 1% for the week after investors assess mixed economic data and hear that limits might be placed on U.S. investment in Chinese companies.
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Businesses in every industry, including employee benefits, are striving to meet the expectations of the on-demand consumer. Workers expect their employers to help them understand and use their benefits, and it’s time for employers to...
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Monday, September 23, 2019
In this weeks recap: oil prices spike, following drone attacks in the Middle East; the Federal Reserve cuts interest rates, and a Chinese trade delegation decides to head home early from America.
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Monday, September 23, 2019
It’s simplistic, but not easy; spend less than you make and be intentional with the saved portion. Dave Ramsey has taken this very easy concept and built a profitable empire around implementing common sense financial planning...
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Monday, September 16, 2019
More questions than answers…that is how I feel today.
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Monday, September 16, 2019
In this weeks recap: the Dow logs an 8-day winning streak and Treasuries sell off as the mood brightens slightly in the U.S.-China trade dispute; yearly core inflation reaches a 13-month high.
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Monday, September 9, 2019
In this week’s recap: the three Wall Street benchmarks advance as investors respond to newly scheduled U.S.-China trade talks and see a silver lining in the latest employment and manufacturing data.
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Monday, September 9, 2019
How do you shop? Has it changed in the last decade? I find myself price checking items in stores against Amazon or other on-line retailers. If I can save money and can wait two or three days for the item to arrive I’m guilty of a...
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Tuesday, September 3, 2019
In this week’s recap: Wall Street finishes August with a rally, China decides to pause a potential response to oncoming U.S. tariffs, and two consumer confidence indices send different messages.
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Tuesday, September 3, 2019
What did you pay for a gallon of gas when you first starting driving? Inflation - the greatly discounted and often overlooked element of financial planning is real. The cost of your current standard of living and the basket of goods...
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The August 2019 Issue of Industry Insights is now available!
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Monday, August 26, 2019
In this week’s recap: China unveils new tariffs, the U.S. responds in kind, Jerome Powell speaks at Jackson Hole, leading economic indicators rise, and stocks fall.
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Monday, August 26, 2019
This week’s Weekly Market Review contains timely updates on the federal reserve, tariff rhetoric, and interesting statistics on where in our country the new jobs are. Today is my dad’s Full Retirement Age birthday (66)!...
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Tuesday, August 20, 2019
In this week’s recap: equities are hit by considerable volatility, following developments in the bond market as well as the U.S.-China trade dispute.
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Monday, August 19, 2019
Most every piece of economic data suggest our domestic economy is very strong. Inflation, unemployment, consumer confidence, wage growth, accommodative interest rates, and on and on, but a moment of being able to earn more annual...
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Monday, August 12, 2019
My family loves the beach and we were able to squeeze in a long beach weekend before school started back. While walking down to the beach I noticed a handicap enabled boardwalk dedicated to an individual that “always had a heart...
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Monday, August 12, 2019
In this week’s recap: China jolts the markets by devaluing the yuan, aggregate second-quarter earnings top analyst projections, and stocks retreat for the week.
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Monday, August 5, 2019
It made front page news of every media outlet in the country in 2011. The USA has lost it's AAA credit rating! When the S&P downgraded US issued debt; rumors and predictions of our country’s financial demise ran rapid....
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Monday, August 5, 2019
In this week's recap: stocks fall after a Federal Reserve rate cut, new tariffs are planned for Chinese goods, and payrolls see triple-digit monthly growth.
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A bi-partisan effort in Congress is underway that would allow Medicare recipients to open and contribute to a health savings account (HSA).
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The July 2019 Issue of Industry Insights is now available!
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Monday, July 29, 2019
Did you ever play kick the can as a kid? I can remember the excitement of playing at night with all my cousins during a family get together! Our elected officials have gotten really comfortable with playing kick the can in relation to...
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Monday, July 29, 2019
In this week’s recap: stocks rise, data shows economic growth slowing from the first quarter, and the stage is set for further U.S.-China trade discussions.
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Monday, July 22, 2019
In this week’s recap: stocks dip as earnings season begins; investors wait for the July Federal Reserve meeting, while considering retail sales data and comments from Fed officials.
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Monday, July 15, 2019
We hope that you enjoy this week’s Weekly Market Review. Contained within are details behind last week’s record setting level reached by the Dow Jones Industrial Average. We all know how important oil is. Heck, many Wars have been...
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Monday, July 15, 2019
Since the Trump White House increased tariffs on $200 billion of Chinese imports...
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Monday, July 8, 2019
This week’s Weekly Market Review details the strong job report from last week and it’s predicted impact on interest rate policy. Coming off an ugly finish in 2018, the US stock market set all-time...
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The June 2019 Issue of Industry Insights is now available!
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Monday, June 24, 2019
Contained within are summations of the Fed’s meeting last week and the market’s expectation of the Fed’s future action related to interest rates. Also...
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Monday, June 24, 2019
The S&P 500 hit an all-time peak of 2,964.03, in intraday trading Friday, while improving 2.20% across five market days. . The Dow Jones Industrial Average and Nasdaq Composite posted respective, 5-day advances of 2.41% and 3.01%...
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Monday, June 17, 2019
The significance of the Strait of Hormuz is defined by numbers – 21% of the world’s daily output of oil travels by tankers out of the Persian Gulf via the strait. This body of water, only 24 miles wide, sits just south of Iran...
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Monday, June 10, 2019
The trade dispute with Mexico has been avoided and the markets are reacting very positively, despite lots of economic data slowing a upcoming slow down. Case in point was the May 2019 jobs report that you can read more about by...
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Monday, June 3, 2019
It might be time to fill up that extra gas can in the garage since oil prices have fallen rather dramatically in the last month. Both trade concerns and record production are contributing to the falling price.
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The May 2019 Issue of Industry Insights is now available!
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Monday, May 20, 2019
Good morning! Please find attached this week’s Weekly Market Review which centers on trade relations with China. While the market remains optimistic about a resolution; 25% tariffs on $200 billion goods are in place. The longer...
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