The 2023 rally was interrupted by the banking issues coming to a head on March 10th. Markets calmed down by the end of the month though early April showers are upon us.
Banks are in the news. Here is a summary of the recent events and why this differs from 2008.
In January, all major asset classes were up except commodities. In February, the opposite occurred – except commodities were still down. The bond market believes the Fed again!
Last month I summarized 25 key provisions for both individuals and businesses. This time I dig a little deeper on five provisions that apply to – or piqued the interest of - many individuals and are worth repeating.
The January effect was in full swing, along with the bond market pushing against the Fed.
Changes are coming to your retirement accounts (watch effective dates). A few examples: RMD delayed to age 73, 401k emergency fund, excess 529 funds for Roth IRA, extra catch-up for age 60-63, Roth in SIMPLE and SEP… and a larger QLAC if want to nerd out with me.
There was a major reversal in US equities from November to December, falling like the temperatures in the Midwest.
Here is my traditional Holiday post. The energy and excitement of youth is especially noticeable this time of year. Soak it in – but also remember to recognize and encourage this energy year-round… but without “measuring you by the yardstick of my own years.”
Was there anything down in November? Yes – rates and the US Dollar… and flying turkeys (WKRP anyone?)
Last week FTX – a cryptocurrency exchange and custodian – filed for bankruptcy. FTX customer funds were commingled (fraud), credit was extended to a related hedge fund, and leverage and illiquidity took it down quickly.
Nothing seemed scary this month, though plenty of goblins – active Fed, stubborn inflation, slowing global GDP, revenue forecasts – are lurking in the dark. Also see the end for updated I Bond rates.
The CPI-W index was released Oct 13 and we now have the Social Security inflation adjustment for 2023. Medicare premiums for 2023 are surprisingly going down from $170.10 to $164.90 per month per person.