If you only looked at month-end market levels, you would have thought May was a fairly quiet month. Looking under the hood however shows intra-month swings of over 10% for some markets.
We recently celebrated our son’s college graduation. This was our third and final child to graduate – a proud and exciting time for all. What a great time to share the different features and benefits of the 529 Savings Plan.
What will these April showers bring? US equities down 9% for April and 30-year Treasury Bonds down 10%... for the month!
You will likely hear “… a half a point” on May 4th. Who is the Fed, what does this mean, and how many rate hikes are expected this year are important questions.
Rates – at the long-end, at the short-end, at the mortgage end – RATES!
You are likely in the process of completing your 2021 tax return. Those who didn’t plan may be frustrated and wonder if there is anything to do. The answer is YES!
Global events overtook the market toward the end of February but the Fed also remains an important driver.
It is tax season. You are getting the W2’s and 1099’s online or in the mail. Depending on your stage of life, some are getting 1099-R’s for IRA withdrawals and others a 1098-T for college tuition. Some know exactly what all this means; others just enter in the tax software dialogue boxes; still others throw it in the shoe box and hand it to their accountant.
The equity markets aren’t having such a happy new year. As stated last month, watch real interest rates.
I hope you are enjoying the new year. In addition to reflection and refreshing goals, those taking distributions from IRAs – including IRAs inherited prior to 2020 – also need to refresh their distribution calculation using updated IRS Tables.
A strong finish to the year but a weak start to 2022. And watch the real interest rates and impact on growth stocks.
You can feel the energy and excitement of youth (and the older youth!) this time of year. Soak it in and enjoy this holiday season – but also remember that energy is present year-round. After the holiday season passes and the grind sets in, continue to recognize this and encourage them accordingly… but without “measuring you by the yardstick of my own years.”