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Navigating the intricacies of Social Security (SS) after divorce or death can feel overwhelming, but it does not have to be. Whether you are a divorcee or a surviving spouse, understanding the rules surrounding SS benefits can...

The “American Industrial Renaissance” is an investment theme investors and allocators alike have probably been pitched several times, or at the very least heard about. Supply chains for manufactured goods have evolved to become more...

Navigating the intricacies of Social Security (SS) after divorce or death can feel overwhelming, but it does not have to be. Whether you are a divorcee or a surviving spouse, understanding the rules surrounding SS benefits can...

As we wrote in our recent Rate and Credit View, the case for global bonds has strengthened as the structure of fixed income markets — and the sources of risk within them — have become increasingly asymmetric. The U.S. bond market...

As wealthy people approach their golden years, retirement planning often becomes a focal point of their financial strategies. One aspect of this planning that sometimes creates confusion or misinterpretation is the role of Social...

Outside of energy commodities, capital markets posted a downbeat March as cross-asset volatility spiked in response to the outbreak of hostilities in the Mideast, and kicked off April in similar, choppy fashion before posting a swift...

Managing retirement strategies and creating goals can help you stay focused and consistent in your financial efforts. It creates a sense of achievement while you make progress toward the pursuit of a fulfilling retirement and financial...

As strikes on Iran continue and the Strait of Hormuz remains effectively closed, it’s clearly too early for market watchers to stop thinking about geopolitical risk. As discussed in recent commentaries but worth repeating, history...

Social Security is a vital component of retirement income for many. This government program provides monthly benefits and is funded primarily through payroll taxes. Understanding Social Security benefits and taxation is essential to...

As the Iran conflict enters its second month, geopolitical stress continues to test investors. Historical stock market performance during geopolitical conflicts helps remind us that stocks are far more resilient than the moment may...

Determining how your income impacts Social Security (SS) taxes is important for tax planning. Factors that determine how much pay SS tax you pay, depending on your circumstances, include: If you have income from working in retirement....

Earnings drive stock prices over time, but not all the time. Clearly, we’re in an environment where stocks are moving on developments in the Mideast and related moves in oil prices and interest rates. At the risk of writing about...

Capital gains taxes is a hot topic for anyone who is involved in investing and even for people who aren’t as it could potentially impact various aspects of day-to-day life, such as the jobs market. Generally, an investor will buy an...

Corporate credit markets have become unsettled about the potential for advanced agentic AI tools from firms such as Anthropic and OpenAI to automate functions across legal, analytical, marketing, and sales workflows, effectively...

Tax planning might be complex, but it's also essential—especially for wealthy families, where missing tax breaks or failing to optimize income could cost significant dollars, maybe millions, over a lifetime. And even in the short term,...

Lower oil “intensity” — less oil used per dollar of economic output — means energy shocks have a smaller impact on growth than in past decades. And from the supply side, the U.S. is now a net exporter of petroleum products. Because we...

Net investment income tax (NIIT), also affectionately known as the ‘You-Make-A-Lot-of-Money Tax,’ involves the net investment income of individuals, estates, and trusts. According to the Wall Street Journal, more Americans than ever...

In our 2026 Outlook: The Policy Engine, we listed several risks to stocks that could prevent the S&P 500 from achieving our forecast for high-single-digit returns in 2026 (to a fair value target range of 7,300–7,400). One was narrow...

Many are interested in the impact of future tax legislation on Trusts. As we look ahead to 2026, it is crucial to understand how the evolving tax landscape may impact the administration, structuring, and distribution of Trusts. Several...

Joint airstrikes against Iran targeting high-value military installations to hinder Iran’s nuclear development efforts and degrade its military capabilities while removing the Iranian regime from power are ongoing. The death of Iran’s...

Dividend strategies, a.k.a. equity income strategies, have outperformed to start the year, owing to the value-led cyclical rotation we are seeing in domestic equity markets. Looking beyond current performance, this week, we ask and...

LPL Research’s Strategic Asset Allocation (SAA) sits at the center of our portfolio construction process because it defines how we expect diversified portfolios to generate more stable long‑term outcomes across shifting market...

Americans work hard. We grind, day in and day out, developing our skills and maturing within our chosen careers. In a world of unpredictable inflation and soaring cost of living expenses, we know all too well that nothing in life is...

Wall Street narratives rarely stay still, and recent weeks have underscored how quickly sentiment can change as perceived new information challenges the status quo. Widely discussed anxiety over a potential artificial intelligence (AI)...

The federal income tax filing deadline isn’t until April. However, the start of tax season is nearly upon us. Here are some tips for navigating the tax filing process to help lessen some of the stress you may feel as Tax Day arrives....

After a stellar 2025 in which emerging market (EM) equities returned 34%, 2026 is off to a good start with the MSCI EM Index up 7% year to date. Last year’s near doubling of the S&P 500 return was driven mostly by a weakening U.S....

The 2025 tax season is approaching, so be prepared for any changes that could affect your return. As credits, deductions, and tax laws change frequently, it pays to plan ahead to get all the tax breaks you deserve and take advantage of...

Other than the historic volatility in gold and silver prices, the biggest news for markets in January may have been the nomination of Kevin Warsh as the next Federal Reserve (Fed) Chair. We anticipate a Warsh-led Fed will be able to...

The Federal Reserve (Fed) enters 2026 navigating potentially constrained policy conditions as resilient growth and above‑trend inflation intersect with an increasingly unsustainable fiscal trajectory. Fed Chair Jerome Powell emphasized...

While the Internal Revenue Service may not be your favorite federal agency, criminals posing as IRS representatives are unquestionably the much bigger problem. Here’s what to know to protect yourself. Scammers set increasingly...

Productivity growth is the key mechanism that allows the U.S. economy to expand above its long‑run trend without reigniting inflation. Recent data show U.S. nonfarm business productivity rising 4.9% in Q3 2025, a surge strong enough to...

One crucial aspect of managing your finances includes understanding how to use credit and credit cards wisely. Below, we'll explore some effective credit strategies. Understand Your Credit Score Your credit score is a crucial metric...

The melt‑up in the metals market that defined 2025 has extended its strength into the early weeks of the new year, reinforcing the commodity sector’s position as one of the leading asset classes across global markets. To the surprise...

Whether you use it for the convenience of paying bills or for safer online shopping, there is a good chance that you have at least one or two credit cards in your wallet. Credit cards are often associated with potentially negative...

Fourth quarter earnings season unofficially kicks off this week with a dozen banks and asset managers in the S&P 500 slated to report. Results will come from some big names, including JPMorgan Chase (JPM) on Tuesday; Bank of America...

Financial wellness is a state of being when one is in control of their finances, can cover expenses, and save for future goals. Consider financial wellness as your relationship with money; it can be either healthy or unhealthy....

Stocks had another strong year in 2025 as most market benchmarks enjoyed their third straight year of double-digit returns. Last year’s performance was particularly rewarding given how much stocks overcame —...

With 2025 behind us, it’s a good time to celebrate some of our better forecasts from last year while also reviewing some misses we can learn from. In our view, we got more right than wrong last year, but there were some misses among...

Do you believe you have to be a financial genius to manage your finances? Financial knowledge may seem like a lot to handle, and you don’t need us to tell you that. But we are here to tell you that financial wellness is much more about...

Do you want to get on top of your finances this year? Are you looking for ways to improve your fiscal health? Change may be difficult, especially when you try to change your financial habits. The process might be easier if you take an...

Planning for long-term care (LTC) is essential to your retirement planning. If you anticipate having Medicare, you must understand that it only covers a limited number of LTC services. Therefore, you must uncover other strategies to...

2025 was a good year for most fixed income markets but we’re approaching 2026 with caution. All-in yields are still attractive for most markets, but spreads (the additional compensation for owning riskier debt) are low, suggesting...

Healthcare is one of the more difficult areas to navigate as you get closer to retirement. With so much focus on saving enough for retirement and ensuring that your investments will keep up with inflation, many people fail to square...

The bull market appears poised to extend its run in 2026, fueled by ongoing enthusiasm around AI and further easing of monetary policy from the Fed. However, with valuations running high and midterm election years often bringing more...

As the year comes to a close, there are some important deadlines that you shouldn’t ignore. These deadlines affect your taxes, savings, and, perhaps, your financial future. Here’s a simple guide to help you stay on track before this...

The 12 Days of Year-End Planning: Things to Consider Going into the New Year At the end of the year, it is necessary to reflect on your financial picture, review the last 12 months, and plan for the future. With all that is involved,...

Stock investors were rewarded for staying the course in November as broad stock market averages recovered from a mid-month dip to end near record highs. The comeback extended the S&P 500 Index’s streak of monthly gains to seven –...

Quick Recap First, here’s a summary of the keys to 2026 that we covered in our previous Outlook 2026 teaser on the U.S. economy, stocks, and bonds: No recession. In the absence of an economic contraction, stocks have historically...

Third quarter earnings season winds down over the next couple of weeks and has once again met Wall Street’s high expectations. After tariff-muddled first quarter results, companies did a good job adjusting to tariffs in the second...

Before the year ends, it’s important to review your finances with a financial professional. Here’s a simple checklist of nine things to double-check to make sure you’re in good shape for the new year.

Year-end financial planning can help you assess your family’s financial situation, identify areas for improvement, and set achievable goals for the future.

Artificial intelligence (AI) makes daily headlines, and investors are questioning if businesses’ AI-related investment can continue at this pace. The money spent on data centers, software, and other AI-related investments reveal the...

The terms Medicare and Medicaid are similar sounding names; however, these programs serve very different needs. Medicare is a health insurance benefit program for those aged 65 and older and others with certain disabilities.

Dear Valued Investor, The last week of October delivered a flurry of impactful headlines across earnings, monetary policy, and geopolitics — each shaping the investment landscape as we head into year-end. Here are some key takeaways:...

There was no shortage of headlines on both the micro and macro levels last week. Earnings season ramped up as nearly half of the S&P 500’s market cap reported third quarter (Q3) results, including a handful of mega cap companies....

Every year, the holiday season sneaks up on us and, before we get to turn around, it’s over. This frenzied time of year is filled with shopping excursions and office parties, and it’s easy to let financial planning slip through the cracks.

With the stock market in record-high territory and up about 35% off the April lows, market participants clearly haven’t been too scared lately. But that doesn’t mean there aren’t plenty of things to worry about. Just because risks...

If you're thinking about working in retirement, you must consider a few things before making your decision. As you get older, the question of when to collect Social Security retirement benefits and how your monthly payment may be...

In corporate credit markets, early indicators of stress often emerge subtly — not through dramatic dislocations, but through nuanced shifts in borrower behavior and market dynamics. Much like canaries in coal mines once signaled...

If you're avoiding looking at your 401(k) balance during periods of market volatility, you're not alone. While the S&P 500 has historically produced an average annual return of 11%, recent market downturns may be impacting your...

Sunday, October 12 marked the third anniversary of this bull market. Three years ago, the S&P 500 closed at 3,577 as investors feared inflation would become entrenched after wholesale prices unexpectedly accelerated. After a sharp...

Retirement seems like a long way off, but it arrives faster than you think. The big question is, are you ready? What exactly does retirement entail? Analysts suggest there are four designated phases of retirement that a person often...

We believe corporate America will follow up an outstanding second quarter earnings season with another good one in the third quarter. Support from a resilient economy, tariff mitigation measures, artificial intelligence (AI) investment...

Managing retirement strategies and creating goals can help you stay focused and consistent in your financial efforts. It creates a sense of achievement while you make progress toward the pursuit of a fulfilling retirement and financial...

The October 1 deadline has passed, and the U.S. government has shut down. While political gridlock is never ideal, history suggests that shutdowns tend to be short-lived and have minimal sustained impact on the...

U.S. equity markets have bucked the weak September seasonality trend (thus far) and rallied to fresh highs this month, with the S&P 500 holding onto a 2.7% monthly gain as of September 26. The melt-up has been underpinned by the...

As a young person, you imagine you have all the time in the world to save for retirement. You live in the present with the future a mere blip out on the horizon. But time has a way of flying by, and you realize that maybe you are not...

Did you buy a new pink dress to watch the Barbie movie, only to never wear it again? An Oura ring because your favorite TikTok influencer had it? A new pair of baggy jeans because ‘90s fashion is making a comeback?

During last week’s press conference after the Federal Reserve’s (Fed) rate decision, Chairman Jerome Powell warned his audience there is no risk-free path for interest rates right now. Inflation is above target and growth appears resilient.

As climate patterns change and weather-related disasters become more frequent, purchasing a flood insurance policy or adding a rider to an existing policy has become a vital asset protection strategy.

Global bond markets have sold off recently due to uncertainty surrounding key political changes most notably in France and Japan. Japan’s Prime Minister, Shigeru Ishiba, resigned last week, which adds a potential shift in fiscal policy...

With increasing global seismic activity, earthquake insurance coverage is essential for those residing in earthquake-prone regions. It helps buffer the risk of financial loss resulting from an earthquake.

Some of you reading this title might think this commentary is about September seasonality. Sure, seasonality is part of our playbook and is getting a lot of attention right now.

Fire insurance is a crucial component of property preservation that helps safeguard against the risk of fire damage to property.

As summer winds down, the financial world remains focused primarily on the Federal Reserve (Fed).

The winning streak for stocks continued in August, as the S&P 500 posted its fourth consecutive month of gains.

Over the past few years, homeowners in states like California and Florida received terrible news—insurers are leaving.

As central bankers, economists, and policymakers gathered last weekend in Wyoming’s Grand Teton National Park for the 2025 Jackson Hole Economic Symposium, the Federal Reserve (Fed) found itself at a critical juncture...

A critical part of financial planning that is often overlooked is insurance. Having various insurance policies will provide different benefits to your financial plan, ranging from protection to tax breaks.

If you’re nearing age 65 or already enrolled in Medicare, it’s important to stay up to date on how the program is evolving. Every year brings small changes, and 2025 is no different.

We’re all ready to put the tariff talk to bed. But don’t worry. While this commentary provides an update on the tariff situation, there’s more happening on the policy front than just tariffs.

Insurance is designed to provide coverage for some of life's biggest disasters—fire, floods, car crashes, disability, and death.

The last few days of July and the beginning of August have brought a flurry of key economic data, central bank activity, company earnings results, and tariff news. Here are some takeaways from the week of July 28.

Last week was one for the ages in terms of the number and magnitude of events and data points for investors to digest.

Back-to-school season is always a busy time, but in 2025, it comes with a bigger-than-normal price tag. Between inflation, tariffs, and general economic uncertainty, everything from pencils to laptops may cost more this year.

We believe this more complex macro environment will force the Federal Reserve (Fed) to maintain its cautious stance on monetary policy for longer than markets originally expected.

After a natural disaster, you're probably focused on recovery efforts, including repairing your home, replacing belongings, and returning things to as close to normal as possible.

Within fixed income markets, a tug of war has unfolded between two opposing forces, much like the classic tale of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde.

Whether you like it or not, work is essential to life. Since work is such an important part of your life, it is easy to become consumed by it and forget about other important things, such as your family and friends, which makes...

If “tariff” isn’t the word of the year for stock investors so far, then perhaps it’s “uncertainty.” Uncertainty around trade policy dominated the path of the stock market in the first half and will continue to play a large role in...

When you think of your financial wellness, you are likely not considering how it may affect your social life or vice versa.

In today's economic environment, where market volatility and inflation are often unpredictable and inevitable, investing can sometimes feel like a rollercoaster.

As Americans get their grills and beach chairs ready for the July 4th holiday, the stock market and the weather across much of the country have both been on heaters.

With investor focus now squarely back on U.S. equities as new all-time highs are in sight, we dig into why strategic allocations should still consider, despite recent outperformance and multiple expansion...

Working towards financial independence can often be a lifelong process. But for many, financial freedom may come far sooner—and include some fun along the way.

LPL Financial explores the split in China’s stock market, as mainland A-shares struggle and internationally accessible H-shares rally on renewed investor interest.

Summer is here, and it could be time to hit the road on a new adventure. If you’re on a tight budget, you don’t have to give up your summer vacation dreams.

Every business owner knows the day will come when they either sell their company or pass it on. What's harder to accept is when that day is today.

Inflation’s effects on the economy, monetary policy, and the financial markets are wide-ranging.

If you are a dog owner, your pet may be your loyal friend and constant companion. However, if you are a homeowner, you should be aware that your dog could cause a few issues with your insurance coverage.

A study found that more than 20% of reusable water bottles sampled contained coliform bacteria, or fecal matter. Here’s the best way to clean your water bottle and avoid harmful germs.

There have been plenty of catalysts supporting the broader market’s recovery from the correction lows set last month.

Although many things have changed in the financial world over the past 20 years, some nuggets of financial advice are timeless. Here are a few tips that have remained constant for several generations.

As June begins, markets continue to navigate a complex landscape shaped by trade policy shifts, an uncertain economic and earnings outlook, and bond market headwinds.

There has been no shortage of trade policy curveballs thrown at the market since the White House announced shockingly high reciprocal tariffs on April 2.

Periodically, companies will report massive data breaches, some impacting billions of records that contain personal information such as names, addresses, and Social Security numbers.

First quarter reporting season was solid, but results didn’t offer much of a confidence boost in the outlook for the rest of the year.

Shopping for a life insurance policy doesn’t have to be confusing and overwhelming. If you take some time to understand the basics and how it works, you can better determine the coverage that may be beneficial for you and your family’s...

Investor sentiment dramatically changed after Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and other members of the Trump administration announced a temporary pause on tariffs with China.

Many are interested in the impact of future tax legislation on Trusts. As we look ahead to 2025, it is crucial to understand how the evolving tax landscape may impact the administration, structuring, and distribution of Trusts.

A busy week of earnings, trade negotiations, and monetary policy meetings left the S&P 500 down around 0.5%. Buyer fatigue appeared to be setting in at this stage of the recovery, risk appetite from positive trade headlines faded by Friday.

Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly becoming a fixture in many industries. For life insurance users, AI helps to target online advertising and helps customers learn more about what policy might work for them.

The latest recovery is another reminder that periods of turmoil can often create opportunities. Although stocks may pull back after their strong rally since the April 8 lows...

The municipal bond market faced significant volatility in April, driven by spillovers from a turbulent Treasury market.

Life insurance and annuities are essential financial planning tools for providing future independence. However, depending on the individual's goals, each may be part of a comprehensive financial plan.

As we look ahead to the life insurance landscape, numerous changes are taking place that seek to benefit consumers. The impact of global events has underlined the importance of having a life insurance policy...

The softer tone toward China from the White House, President Trump’s pledge not to fire Federal Reserve (Fed) Chair Jerome (Jay) Powell, and renewed optimism about Fed rate cuts all helped drive a strong market rebound last week.

Clouds of uncertainty continued to hang over U.S. equity markets last week. The S&P 500 slid 1.5% as investors sought refuge in safe-haven assets.

Social Security is a vital component of retirement income for many. This government program provides monthly benefits and is funded primarily through payroll taxes.

Last week we were able to check several of the boxes on our stock market bottoming process checklist. Panic-level fear in investor surveys? Check. Volatility and volume spikes consistent with prior major market lows and capitulation? Check.

Most people know that once they approach retirement age, their reward for years of work comes from Social Security payments they put money towards during their employment.

Markets got quite a surprise from the Trump administration last week in the form of tariffs above even the most aggressive forecasts, increasing the risks to economic growth and corporate profits.

Social Security, established in 1935, provides financial benefits to the elderly, disabled, and disadvantaged groups. However, there are concerns regarding its sustainability.

April showers came a month early as stocks fell in March. Tariffs were the primary cause of the market jitters, although that uncertainty became too much for markets to shrug off once economic data started to weaken.

Wednesday is the big day when the Trump administration will provide more clarity on their tariff plans. The latest news has been a mix of encouraging talk about narrow reciprocal tariffs and deep and biting auto (and auto parts) tariffs.

In a welcome development for millions of Americans relying on Social Security, the Social Security Administration has recently announced a substantial increase in retirement and disability benefits.

Trade uncertainty and nagging inflation made Federal Reserve (Fed) Chair Jerome Powell walk a tightrope at the latest press conference.

Each year when tax season rolls around, it comes with the burden of figuring out how to file your taxes correctly.

U.S. equity markets officially entered correction territory last week for the first time in 344 trading days. Tariff uncertainty feeding into economic growth concerns has been the primary catalyst behind the risk-off rotation.

Spring is a time of renewal and rejuvenation, as the world awakens from its winter slumber and new life begins to bloom. As the saying goes, "April showers bring May flowers", and this sentiment can also apply to your financial life.

Heightened volatility and uncertainty in both financial markets and the broader economy present challenges and opportunities for investors.

On Saint Patrick’s Day, towns hold festive parades, people head to restaurants to dine on Irish fare, children pinch each other if they don’t wear green, and everything from beers to milkshakes turn the color of shamrocks.

As spring approaches and the weather warms, the U.S. economy has begun to cool. After a sizzling recovery from the pandemic, followed by a period of surprisingly solid and steady growth on the back of...

Fourth quarter earnings season is nearly complete, and it has been a good one. S&P 500 companies grew profits more than 18% year over year, according to FactSet data...

Having a good credit score doesn't just get you the best interest rates. It can also reduce your auto insurance premiums, allow you to avoid security deposits, and in some cases, even help you get hired.

“Sell in May and Go Away” is one of the most widely used maxims on Wall Street. There is no shortage of financial media coverage on this topic as the calendar turns to May.

The 2024 tax season is approaching, so be prepared for any changes that could affect your return. As credits, deductions, and tax laws change frequently, it pays to plan ahead to get all the tax breaks you deserve...

Stocks continued to climb the wall of worry last week and shrugged off tariff headlines, inflation volatility, and signs of a slowdown in retail spending.

You tie your life to another’s in many ways with that ring on your finger: family, friends, jobs and where you live, to name a few. You also certainly combine finances and attitudes about money.

Use of the terms “bull” and “bear” in financial markets can be traced back to London’s financial district in the late 19th century, used as an analogy for how each animal attacks; the bull thrusts its horns upwards, and a bear swipes...

In the world of investing, risk and reward go hand-in-hand. To help manage risk and reward, investors often utilize a portfolio diversification strategy that mitigates risk while working toward accumulation across asset classes.

The new month brings two major market-moving stories to digest. First is the advances in artificial intelligence (AI) by Chinese startup DeepSeek.

Every year, people send 145 million Valentine’s Day cards, making this the second most popular card giving holiday besides Christmas.

With China’s DeepSeek pressuring investors to take a closer look at the current environment of AI development within the U.S., some are taking a moment to question the accuracy of a much larger idea — American Excellence.

The Federal Reserve (Fed) cut interest rates last September and, to date, the central bank has lowered rates by 1%. But over the same period, long-term Treasury yields are higher by 1% (per the 10-year Treasury yield).

When it comes to financial bad habits, the most common are also well known — don’t spend too much, don’t take on unsustainable debt, and avoid living paycheck to paycheck.

Earnings season is underway and, thanks to the banks, it’s off to a good start. Currently, consensus estimates are calling for a strong 12% year-over-year increase in S&P 500 earnings per share (EPS) for the fourth quarter of 2024.

Whether you are just entering your golden years or are already several years in, setting goals to stay on track and maintain your health, happiness, and finances is essential.

As the new year officially gets underway, there’s the usual sense of renewed optimism and excitement over new opportunities. However, recent stock market activity is casting a shadow over this sentiment.

The new year is fast approaching, and it is the perfect time to set up resolutions for your business.

Stocks had another very strong year in 2024. In fact, 2024 marked the first time the S&P 500 has enjoyed a +20% gain in back-to-back years since 1997–98. Last year didn’t start out so optimistically though.

With 2024 fully behind us, it’s a good time to celebrate our winning calls from last year while also reviewing some mistakes to learn from them and improve our process.

Change may be difficult, especially when you try to change your financial habits. The process might be easier if you take an incremental approach. Do you want to get on top of your finances this year?

As 2024 draws to a close, investors have fully embraced the stock market. The S&P 500 is up more than 25% year to date. The broader Russell 3000 Index is up 24%. The Nasdaq Composite is up over 31%.

If you are seeing a downturn in business, you may be tempted to cut your marketing costs to save money, but this path could end up hurting your business more in the long run. Resolve to keep your marketing plan in full force.

The holidays are a season of giving, rejoicing, and celebrating. And sometimes, being joyous means having to spend some money. If you feel the pinch when the season ends, don’t worry!

The Federal Reserve (Fed) is moving more cautiously in adjusting policy, and markets might have a hard time resetting expectations.

To say the U.S. economy has been difficult to read is an understatement. From generationally high inflation and interest rates to concerns about the labor market, it’s no wonder consumers are unsure about the overall health of the economy.

Travel isn’t just for the rich. With a little creative thinking and some clever planning, you could have a great adventure while saving money at the same time.

LPL Research’s Outlook 2025: Pragmatic Optimism will be released tomorrow and available on LPL.com. Here we just provide an appetizer before the main course and share some of the stock and bond market themes covered in the full publication.

When inflation is high, holiday traditions like decorations, family gatherings, and gift-giving may feel like burdens. Rising prices may leave you wondering how to maintain your spirit without breaking the bank.

Solid gains for stocks gave investors a November to remember. In fact, the S&P 500’s more than 5% advance marked its best month of 2024. Several factors played into the stock market’s continued move higher.

Signing up for Medicare is essential to help provide you with the coverage you need as you age. But if you miss the deadlines, you could risk a lifetime of penalties. Here is what you stand to lose if you incur Medicare late penalties.

The dollar’s continued climb higher has been predicated on a host of factors — including the rise in geopolitical risk and the dollar’s safe haven status as inflows have picked up markedly, uncertainty with regard to the Federal...

Your credit and Social Security number are two of the most important pieces of personal information that you have when it comes to safeguarding your finances and even your identity.

Trade dynamics have shifted considerably since President Trump’s first administration. Reshoring among U.S. businesses and headwinds to the Chinese economy may limit the inflationary impact from rogue trade policy.

Black Friday and Cyber Monday are great times to find amazing deals, but they’re also a prime time for scammers. While you’re hunting for bargains, stay alert to avoid getting caught in a scam.

The clouds of uncertainty parted last week as former President Donald Trump decisively won the U.S. election, making him the second U.S. president to win non-consecutive terms (Grover Cleveland was the first to do it back in 1892).

Charitable contributions are personally rewarding and also have the potential to be tax-saving opportunities. A donation is a gift, such as cash or property, that is given to a non-profit organization to help them in pursuit of their goals.

For investors, achieving an outcome and removing the cloud of uncertainty is, in and of itself, a positive development. If the economy is on solid footing, as it is currently, stocks have historically reacted positively to election results.

As Election Day approaches, we discuss potential stock market implications of various possible outcomes. But before we get into that, we offer our regular public service announcement around elections and investing.

Every year, the holiday season sneaks up on us and, before we get to turn around, it’s over. Here are some tips for timely year-end planning that may make a big difference.

Stocks have done so well this year that it’s fair to say market participants haven’t feared much. But just because risks haven’t affected markets lately doesn’t mean they won’t in the future.

The bar for third quarter earnings is low, with analysts currently expecting only about a 3% increase in S&P 500 earnings per share (EPS). That low bar and a supportive economic environment points to potential upside.

As you approach retirement, fully stepping away from work might seem less appealing than it did a decade or two ago. Many people embrace semi-retirement to balance the need for continued income with the desire for more leisure time.

On October 12, 2022, there were very few comments suggesting that a new bull market was in the throes of being born as the S&P 500 opened at 3,590.83 and closed at 3,577.03.

Small businesses have new reasons to consider the value of financial planning in working towards their business goals.

Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell said last month’s decision to cut the fed funds target rate by a half percentage point was due to a “recalibrating” policy, as the Fed follows its dual mandate regarding inflation and growth.

National Savings Day on October 12 is the perfect reminder for business owners to take a closer look at their financial practices. For entrepreneurs, every penny saved can directly impact your bottom line.

Finally! For the first time in more than four years, on September 18, the Federal Reserve (Fed) cut interest rates.

When it comes to investing, gold may be the antithesis of artificial intelligence (AI). The precious metal has acted as a store of value for thousands of years with zero technological innovation — gold is discovered, not developed.

Cybercriminals may be more dangerous to small businesses than to large corporations. Small businesses are ideal targets for hackers because these businesses often lack a strong cybersecurity policy.

Of course, last week’s headliner was Jerome Powell and the Federal Reserve (Fed) cutting rates by a half percent on Wednesday, September 18, the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic broke out in 2020.

Fall is a magical time of the year throughout much of the country. This season of cider sweaters is also a great time to sit down and give your finances a comprehensive review.

With the first presidential debate behind us, it’s safe to say election season is in full swing. While last week’s debate was light on economic policies, the future of tax policy could have broad implications for the municipal market...

Shopping for a life insurance policy doesn’t have to be confusing and overwhelming. If you take some time to understand the how it works, you can better determine the coverage that may be beneficial for you and your family’s needs.

Second quarter earnings season is in the books, and it was a good one. S&P 500 companies collectively grew earnings at a double-digit pace for the first time in three years.

Small businesses are typically seen as important to the economy. Not only did they lead the charge through the financial crisis by creating jobs and products, but they are also often small enough to innovate at a grassroots level...

With fall upon us and students back in classrooms, it seems like a good time to reflect on the various tests that the U.S. economy and stock market have passed recently.

In December 2023, Vladimir Putin declared that the 2024 BRICS Summit, hosted by Russia, would be focused on establishing a “fair world order” based on shared principles.

A 529 is a tax-advantaged savings plan that gives you incentives to save money to pay for college or other higher education expenses. Here are some points to keep in mind when navigating your 529 plan.

When the market moves, whether up, down, or in circles, there are terms to describe these dubious economic fluctuations. Here, we will discuss two of them, deflation and disinflation, and why investors should plan for both.

In his recent speech, Federal Reserve (Fed) Chairman Jerome Powell focused on the fragilities of the labor market and is preparing markets for the new phase for policy. “The time has come for policy to adjust.”

Every year as the summer months draw near their end, LPL Financial hosts its annual Focus conference for financial advisors. Below are some of the frequently asked questions from the road.

Many near-retirees view their upcoming retirement as a time to kick back, relax, and make memories with loved ones. But for some, retirement may offer the opportunity to work for yourself instead of working for someone else.

Pullbacks are the stubbed toe of the stock market. I was reminded of this over the last week as I contemplated the recent surge in volatility while picking up toys after our two-year-old finally fell asleep.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in all areas of public life—employment, transportation, public accommodations, and telecommunications.

Stocks must have gotten the memo that August tends to be weak historically. July, the eighth positive month in the past nine, was quickly forgotten as the beginning of August greeted us with a selloff.

Before the jobs report was released on Friday, we wrote a commentary on the U.S. dollar. In light of the events over the weekend and Monday, we start with some comments on the global stock market selloff.

Investors had a healthy appetite for risk so far this year as a so-called potential soft landing has been factored in. We have an economy with rising wages, decelerating inflation, and a Federal Reserve (Fed) on the cusp of cutting rates.

Many parents may feel it is unnecessary to inform their adult children about their personal, financial affairs. As your children grow older, it can work to your advantage to share key financial, medical, and estate planning information.

The first half of the year was a challenging environment for a lot of fixed income markets, especially higher-quality markets.

You need a healthy social network to make your small business truly successful. Below, we discuss eight winning strategies to help you cultivate meaningful connections with your professional community.

Outlook 2024: A Turning Point, released in December 2023, featured our perspective on how stocks might respond to turning points in inflation and monetary policy.

Going through a divorce can be an emotionally charged and stressful event. There's often the challenging task of disentangling finances and assets, a process that frequently leaves many divorcees in a precarious financial situation/

Stocks finished the first half of the year the same way they started — with solid gains.

With stock valuations elevated after such a strong first half, earnings growth will be key to holding, or potentially building on these gains.

Freedom is not won by sitting idly and hoping for a miracle. Financial freedom requires vision, courage, and sacrifice for a higher goal. The Financial Independence, Retire Early (FIRE) movement is a part of that vision.

Market volatility can unsettle the most seasoned of investors, but with strategic planning and a calm approach, it's possible to weather the storm and emerge in a stronger position.

Jeffrey Roach, PhD, Chief EconomistJeffrey Buchbinder, CFA, Chief Equity Strategist Developments in artificial intelligence may be the antidote for an aging population, but it takes time for these advancements to work themselves into...

Obtaining a life insurance policy is part of being an adult. But it’s also something that you can easily neglect, especially if you obtained it earlier in adulthood.

With a Federal Reserve (Fed) meeting, a Bank of Japan (BOJ) meeting, two very important inflation reports, and nearly $120 billion of new Treasury securities auctioned — last week was quite the week for markets.

The Juneteeth holiday marks the end of slavery in the United States and is one of the oldest African American holidays. It is the date that troops arrived in Galveston, Texas, after the Civil War, to enforce the Emancipation Proclamation.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent victory in the national elections was muted at best. While he secured a rare third term in the nation’s highest office, his decisive legislative supermajority failed to materialize.

Having a desire to give and a philanthropic mindset are important qualities to have in modern society. With so many economic and social challenges today, contributions to charities and philanthropy efforts are needed now more than ever.

April showers brought May flowers as markets placed greater importance on economic growth and corporate profits than the “higher for longer” interest rate messages from the Federal Reserve (Fed).

To say May was an eventful month for the market is an understatement. Investors navigated around the latter half of first-quarter earnings, a breakout to record highs for the broader market...

The Federal Trade Commission's (FTC) recent decision to ban non-compete clauses marks a significant shift in employment and competition policy that could have profound implications for business owners across the United States.

The first quarter earnings season is largely in the books, and it was excellent. In fact, S&P 500 earnings per share would have been up double digits in the quarter if not for a big loss Bristol Myers Squibb absorbed in an acquisition.

Retirees often have the time, freedom, and desire to explore new destinations and make the most of their golden years. With careful planning and attention to detail, senior travelers can work towards preparing trips that are safe,...

The post-pandemic economy is treating people very differently, creating a headache for central bankers. The extreme differences can often get traced back to living situations, as renters have a very different experience than homeowners.

Delaying retirement appears to increase longevity among men in particular, but it does not seem to have any significant impact on the likelihood of developing health problems like diabetes and depression, a study published in 2018 by...

It continues to be a challenging environment for a lot of fixed income markets, especially higher quality markets.

Planning for retirement is exciting, but it may come with a bit of stress. If you worked hard all your life, now might be the time to relax and enjoy the fruits of your labor. One of the things that you may need to consider is when it...

“Sell in May and Go Away” is one of the most widely used maxims on Wall Street. There is no shortage of financial media coverage on this topic as the calendar turns to May.

Nearly 56 million American adults are 65 or older, and the demand for community living and estate planning services may increase over the next few decades.1 Do you know what arrangements you need to make when the time comes? What are...

After a strong first quarter for stocks, some April showers rained down as the S&P 500 fell about 4% last month. Hopefully those showers will bring some flowers in May, despite the widely cited stock market adage, “Sell in May and go away.”

Last week was a pivotal one for markets, with the S&P 500 coming off a 3% weekly decline the week before. In terms of economic data, we got our first look at first quarter gross domestic product (GDP)...

Volatility has come back into the market as the narrative shifted toward a higher-for-longer monetary policy backdrop. Signs of sticky inflation and a resilient economy, including a strong labor market, have underpinned the change.

As the economic landscape continues to shift and evolve, one specter looms ominously over the horizon: inflation. For pre-retirees, individuals who are on the cusp of transitioning into their golden years, the effects of inflation can...

As the first quarter earnings season kicked off on April 12, expectations for the energy sector were decidedly negative. That low bar has tempted analysts to forecast a series of positive surprises.

Yes, even if you are a business owner or self-employed, you can receive Social Security benefits as long as you have been paying Social Security tax each year. The Social Security Administration defines you as self-employed if you...

Spring is a time of renewal and rejuvenation, as the world awakens from its winter slumber and new life begins to bloom. As the saying goes, "April showers bring May flowers", and this sentiment can also apply to your financial life....

First quarter earnings season kicks off this week with several big banks reporting this Friday, including sector bellwether JPMorgan Chase (JPM).

Financial literacy is essential for your personal financial health and even more crucial for the financial health of your small business. Being a small business owner comes with many responsibilities, one of which is maintaining the...

The S&P 500 index rode a resilient U.S. economy, easing inflation, rising corporate profits, and anticipation of summertime rate cuts from the Federal Reserve (Fed) to solid gains in March.

The IPO market allows institutional investors to incorporate the macroeconomic landscape with individual corporate earnings data to ascertain a share price that holds up to analyst and media scrutiny coupled with overall market dynamics.

The difference between strategic and tactical investment time horizons can be likened to the ebb and flow of tidal patterns in oceans. Strategic investing mirrors the steady rise and fall of the tides.

You are finally retired after a lifetime of hard work, juggling responsibilities, and managing stress. During the pre-retirement phase, you did some planning, excited with the prospect of checking off that long list of all the things...

It seems like we just can’t stop talking about central banks. And this week will be no different, with at least 15 central bank meetings planned, some more important than others, of course. While the Federal Reserve (Fed) meeting...

Wealth preservation is essential for high-net-worth (HNW) individuals, but it warrants a gender-specific focus, too. Particularly for HNW women, understanding the complexities of wealth preservation is crucial. Whether due to...

In the world of business and family governance, the role of a right-hand person, an advisor, and a succession plan cannot be overstated. The recent letter to shareholders by Warren Buffett, released on February 24th, 2024, serves as a...

Bullion broke new ground last week after rallying to a record high. Growing investor confidence for a Federal Reserve (Fed) rate cut by this summer dragged down yields and the dollar, creating a tailwind for gold. The breakout above...

Today, there are an estimated 12.3 million women-owned businesses. To give that some context, approximately 43% of entrepreneurs worldwide are women. A study conducted by Fidelity Investments showed that women are often less prepared...

As spring approaches, the weather is starting to warm up. For the stock market, the temperature has been rising for a while now. In fact, since December 2023, the S&P 500 has not experienced a pullback of even 2%. Strong starts...

The “Super Six” was part of the story — the Magnificent Seven minus Tesla (TSLA) — but resilient profit margins are also noteworthy. Here we review fourth quarter earnings season and share some thoughts on the...

After a brief lull in 2023, buyback activity appears to be back this year. A resilient U.S. economy, easing inflation pressures, and expectations for an eventual shift to interest rate cuts have given corporate America confidence to...

Inflation, the silent force shaping our economic landscape, often creeps into our lives unnoticed until its effects become palpable. Its impact on retirement planning, in particular, underscores its double-edged nature. As the U.S....

As the Federal Reserve (Fed) continues with its Quantitative Tightening (QT) program, questions abound regarding the Treasury Department’s expanding funding needs. The QT program is designed to reduce the Fed’s balance...

For seasoned business executives, the allure of company stock can be undeniable. After years of dedication and hard work, owning a significant portion of one's company can seem like a well-deserved reward. However, over-concentration...

When we wrote the annual outlook last November, the data was mixed. Some metrics hinted at emerging cracks in the economy while others suggested the growth trajectory in capital markets and the economy had legs. So, the variety of the...

Executive bonus plans represent a cornerstone of compensation packages for top-tier executives, offering a mix of incentives and rewards for performance and retention. However, the intricacies and variabilities inherent in these plans...

Stocks are off to a solid start in 2024. January gains are particularly enjoyable because of the old adage from the Stock Trader’s Almanac, “As goes January, so goes the year.” Nearly 75 years of historical...

A positive January has historically been a bullish sign for stocks. Yale Hirsch, creator of the “Stock Trader’s Almanac”, first discovered this seasonal pattern back in 1972, which he called the January Barometer and...

The new year is fast approaching, and it is a good time for small business owners to make some financial resolutions to help lead them toward a solid financial path. Whether your business is just starting or you have been running it...

With the S&P 500 having recently ascended to a fresh record high after such a strong 2023, it’s natural for investors to worry that valuations have become over-extended. On traditional valuation measures, valuations do appear...

For profitable small businesses, paying quarterly estimated taxes is part of the tax process to potentially avoid penalties at the end of your fiscal year. The quarterly taxes for a business are the estimated taxes that will be owed at...

Financial wellness is easier to work toward when a business owner understands their economic outlook and has set financial goals to take them through the next 5 to 10 years.2 Striving toward financial wellness is vital for any small...

Shipping disruptions in the Red Sea could temporarily impact goods prices but not at the same magnitude as during the pandemic. Tight financial conditions, slowing economic growth, and a disinflationary trend all support the Federal...

Fourth quarter earnings season kicked off last week, and markets were generally left wanting more. That doesn’t necessarily mean this earnings season will be disappointing, especially considering the bar has been lowered so much....

For small business owners, tax planning is crucial. Without proper planning, you may find a large portion of your hard-earned profits and savings eaten up by taxes that may not have been so high if you knew better options to pursue. To...

As China emerged a year ago from the shadow of the stringent zero COVID-19-related measures that all but shut down its economy for over two years, much was expected in terms of its economic growth prospects. There were numerous reports...

Stocks defied the skeptics in a very unpredictable 2023. The Dow Jones finished at an all-time record high on December 28, and the S&P 500 came within a whisker of a fresh all-time high after the index rallied more than 20% for...

To say 2023 was challenging may be an understatement. While stocks had a surprisingly impressive year, there was no shortage of obstacles for investors to overcome, including historic interest rate volatility, recession risk, banking...

The Setting Every Community Up for Retirement Enhancement (SECURE) Act, passed into law in December 2019, had significant implications for business owners and employees regarding retirement savings and tax rules.    With some...

Many high-net-worth individuals are aware of their capacity to impact the world to make it a better place through giving. Philanthropy and charitable giving provide a platform for them to affect positive change beyond wealth...

Following the Federal Reserve’s (Fed) aggressive rate-hiking campaign in 2022 and 2023, stocks are entering a phase in which the market narrative is focused on interest-rate stability — as inflation, we believe, comes down...

After years of saving and planning for their golden years, many people nearing retirement fail to consider the tax burden they may face on income they receive after they stop working. While you will likely see a reduction in the amount...

In 2024, LPL Research believes markets will make a definitive turn to a more recognizable place. En route, the transition will be marked by meaningful shifts in a few key areas. Inflation is going down. The risk of a recession is...

Despite a heavy lobbying effort to cajole OPEC+ members to agree to a unified cut in oil production, Saudi Arabia, the de facto leader of the energy cartel, was unable to orchestrate anything more than pledges on a...

One of the main concerns about retirement is health care. As healthcare costs continue to rise, medical bills may quickly derail your retirement plan. The good news is when you turn 65, you will be able to apply for Medicare, which...

Opportunities abound in the markets, even during periods when the economy appears ripe for a regime shift. Recent growth metrics surprised to the upside, but leading indicators point toward some downside risk. In this edition of the...

If you're a business owner, you are likely the Chief Everything Officer at work and have many responsibilities. A business owner's situation is unique since they are asset-rich and cash-poor since their wealth is in their...

With its family traditions and festive celebrations, the holiday season is the most wonderful time of the year. And according to GivingTuesday.org, the giving in the U.S. alone totaled $2.7 billion to nonprofits and community...

As the market appears to be taking a rest and consolidating its $2.7 trillion rally leading up to the Thanksgiving holiday, the historical pattern over the last five years suggests the shortened holiday week typically enjoys modest...

What is it? According to the IRS, you are self-employed if you carry on a trade or business as a sole proprietor, as an independent contractor, as a member of a partnership, or if you are otherwise in business for yourself. You can be...

There is nothing like an eight-day winning streak to change the market narrative. Stocks have quickly gone from a correction to a comeback this month, and the S&P 500 is now challenging key resistance at 4,400. While a confirmed...

Tax planning preparations include small-business owners taking necessary measures to optimize their taxes by taking advantage of deductions and benefits. Here is a brief tax planning overview for small-business owners preparing for tax...

You may sometimes hear the terms "estate planning" and "asset protection" used interchangeably. They actually have different meanings, and it's important to incorporate both strategies into future financial plans. Below, we discuss key...

It’s been another volatile year for municipal (muni) investors this year. While generally outperforming U.S. Treasuries, the Bloomberg Muni Index is on track for its second calendar year of negative returns—something that...

The penultimate month of the year is often a time to reflect and offer thanks. And while economic and geopolitical uncertainty can overshadow the positives, there are things to be thankful for.

It’s a tradition here to write about what scares us around Halloween each year. The past few years have offered plenty of material to use in these annual commentaries, but with wars in Israel and Ukraine ongoing, Washington, D.C....

The Affordable Care Act (ACA) is arguably the most critical healthcare legislation in the U.S. since the introduction of Medicare and Medicaid. The ACA aims to make affordable health insurance available to more Americans. According to...

Managing money may seem stressful at times. Unexpected expenses, changes in employment, and changes in family or lifestyle may all lead to money issues. Making sure you have money saved up for the unexpected is crucial. Here are some...

Despite headwinds, the U.S. could experience structural changes in the labor market, residential real estate, and inflation as the post-pandemic economy progresses into the New Year. As markets adjust to a new regime, investors should...

Businesses generally are illiquid, which can create problems if a business owner requires care in a long-term care facility. LTC is ongoing care in a care facility, nursing home, or at home for those unable to perform a certain number...

Planning for your financial future and retirement looks much different now than in previous years. Some people must supplement their Social Security to have enough to maintain their desired lifestyle. This means financial planning is...

Earnings season has kicked off with several of the big banks and a handful of other blue-chip companies having already reported results for their calendar third quarters. The key headline this reporting season will be the (likely) end...

U.S. Treasury yields have seemingly been moving in one direction lately (higher), with the 30-year Treasury yield temporarily breaching 5% for the first time since 2007. The move higher in yields (lower in price) has been unrelenting...

The National Women's Business Council estimates that there are more than 13 million women-owned businesses in the U.S., generating nearly $2 trillion in annual revenue.1  To aid in these impressive efforts, many governmental and...

Moving onto the economy, we’re feeling the ripple effects as higher short-term interest rates flow into our daily lives—in business and consumer interest rates. For example, would-be homebuyers saw the average 30-year fixed rate...

Let's assume your financial planning is way ahead of your friends. You have saved, invested well and paid off your debts. And while it’s easy to pick your retirement date and maybe budget what you will need for retirement income...

After a difficult September for stocks, investors are surely ready to flip the calendar to October. That’s the month that kicks off the historically strong fourth quarter. Expecting this pattern to repeat this year is tricky...

India has emerged as a compelling economic growth story and an increasingly attractive alternative to China within the emerging markets complex. A growing population with a robust and young workforce, significant infrastructure...

A valuable opportunity for founders and investors, but legislation looms For founders and investors in start-ups, qualified small business stock (QSBS) offers a significant tax advantage that can be likened to a generous gift from the...

Recent data suggests economic conditions in Europe are deteriorating, removing a key element of LPL Research’s positive view of the attractively valued developed international equities asset class. Previous U.S. dollar weakness...

Doing so is a powerful tax strategy to optimize your charitable giving For investors seeking to support charitable causes while optimizing their tax benefits, donating stock instead of cash can provide significant advantages. By...

The BRIC acronym, without the “S,” was introduced in 2001 by the Goldman Sachs chief economist who highlighted the prodigious growth and investment prospects of Brazil, Russia, India, and China combined. In 2009, Russia...

The latest job report reveals a notable slowing in the U.S. job growth as employers added 187,000 jobs in July, which is below economists' forecast of 200,000 positions. However, investors should not be alarmed as this change is...

Despite the credit-related downgrades, markets were able to navigate their way through the ongoing debate of the country’s financial strength. Better than expected earnings reports, coupled with an optimistic outlook, helped...

Fixed income investors have had a rough time over the last few years. Normally a staid asset class, core bonds (as proxied by the Bloomberg Aggregate Bond Index) have seen negative returns over the last two calendar years and could...

If you're like most people, you bought life insurance to provide for your loved ones in the event of your death. But because you're self-employed, you may have an even greater need for life insurance: You'll want to protect your family...

What is it? If you would like to work for yourself but would rather not start your own business, then purchasing a franchise might be a solution. Though far from simple, franchising permits you, the franchisee, to own a business with...

The Federal Reserve (Fed) often uses the Jackson Hole Symposium to announce tweaks in policy. Other central bank leaders are also worth watching as investors try to perceive where rates will be in the coming months. In this piece, we...

Women own nearly 20% of the businesses that employ people in the United States, and countless more women run their businesses without employees. There are over one million women-owned firms. They employ over 10 million people and...

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There are strategies out there that could save you thousands of dollars in taxes, but you probably won't ever hear about them unless you work with an experienced professional. The Deferred Sales Trust is one of those. It isn't well...

It’s different this time. The four (or five) most dangerous words in investing. We’ll take the risk and use those words here as we break down the recent decision by credit rating agency Fitch to downgrade U.S. government...

Do you consider yourself a high-net-worth individual (HNWI)? Most people tend not to categorize themselves or see themselves as anything more than a spouse, parent, sibling, neighbor, boss, or business owner. However, society does...

In early 2022, the IRS issued proposed regulations regarding required minimum distributions (RMDs) to reflect changes made by the Setting Every Community Up for Retirement Enhancement (SECURE) Act of 2019. The IRS has held off on...

Earnings season is mostly behind us with about 85% of S&P 500 companies having reported second quarter results. The high level results aren’t particularly impressive, but if we peel back the onion, the numbers are encouraging....

Making economic forecasts and stock market predictions can be humbling. It’s especially tough when you expect stocks to go higher and get a big drop instead. The environment today is the opposite, but still tricky, as...

Every consumer likes a good bargain, particularly value investors, who seek out stocks trading for less than their intrinsic value. By choosing companies the market has undervalued, or investing in mutual funds with similar objectives...

The economy is doing better than expected, and the markets are responding accordingly. In this piece, we discuss some of the factors that cause us to think the Federal Reserve (Fed) hiked for the last time in this cycle as inflation is...

The first half of the year probably didn’t go the way many fixed income investors had hoped, particularly after the historically awful year last year. It wasn’t a horrible start—more in line with recent...

As the wealthiest society in human history, it is reasonable to expect that we should prioritize the well-being of our citizens, particularly as they age. Yet, the current retirement age is increasingly seen as problematic, with many...

Earnings season is upon us as some banks and a small handful of other blue chip companies have already reported results for their quarters ending June 30. The results on the surface probably won’t offer much to write home about...

When it comes to executive-level pay or compensation, financial compensation comes in a number of forms, including salary, bonuses, and other forms of compensation, such as equity compensation. This type of compensation is often...

Our 2023 investing outlook started with a theme of returning to normalcy. Considering 2022’s market volatility and the aftereffects of the pandemic, the idea of finding balance was certainly a welcomed change. It’s a theme...

As a business owner, putting all your profits back into the business may be tempting, especially during the lean years. However, when it comes to saving and investing as a business owner, there are other paths you could consider for...

As we finalize the log on the first six months of 2023, we believe there’s value in reflecting on recent months gone by...

The long dormant capital markets have recently begun showing signs of interest from institutional investors and deal makers anxious to bring companies to market. While activity remains muted at best, expectations are focused on 2024,...

The “Sandwich Generation” faces a lot of struggles. If you’re unfamiliar with this term, it describes a demographic where usually middle-aged individuals must support aging parents at the same time they’re...

We know it’s old news at this point, but on June 8, 2023, the S&P 500 entered a new bull market. After such a strong rally off the October lows, this young bull probably needs a breather. A look at the charts suggests this market...

Running a business requires gaining expertise in many things over a short period—especially financial matters. If finances do not come naturally to you, you may quickly feel like you are in over your head. Fortunately, mastering...

As the economy is likely downshifting, investors should take heed that the Federal Reserve’s (Fed) current stance is eerily similar to early 2007.  During that time, the Fed held a tightening bias since they believed the...

The PEST analysis is an invaluable tool for businesses seeking to control the uncontrollable aspects of their environment. In today's dynamic and uncertain business landscape, staying ahead of external factors is crucial for thriving and...

The Federal Reserve (Fed) meets this week where it is largely expected to not raise short term interest rates for the first time in 15 months. However, Fed messaging has been all over the place in recent weeks. While some Fed officials...

Internal audits play a crucial role in the proper functioning and success of a business. They are an essential component of a company's risk management process and provide management with valuable insights into the effectiveness of...

Every so often Washington likes to remind us how hard it can be to get things accomplished. The most recent example is the debt ceiling—the amount Congress can borrow to pay its bills. It seems like we have this debate...

Stocks have had a nice run, but at higher prices, the bar for further gains gets higher. We have recently made the case in this publication that there are a lot of reasons to expect the market to go higher between now and year end. But...

Small businesses may often find themselves struggling, and there are many situations in which business owners may find themselves weathering a storm and hoping to make it through. While the strength and fortitude of those who run small...

The mega-cap technology companies have powered the broad market higher this year. In fact, the 8.1% gain in the S&P 500 year to date has been driven entirely by six mega-cap stocks: Apple (AAPL), Microsoft (MSFT), NVIDIA (NVDA), Meta...

Even if you never thought of yourself as especially wealthy, there may be a fair chance that you fall into the category of "high net worth individuals"—those who have liquid assets of $1 million or more. For many individuals who...

Economists like to remind us there is no such thing as a free lunch. In investment parlance, that just means all investments carry risk—even cash. And the big risk with cash is reinvestment risk. That is, while short-term rates...

As an entrepreneur, there are multiple demands on your time and matters that require prioritizing. But while you're juggling strategic planning decisions for your business, don't forget about one of the most important factors of its...

First quarter earnings season is nearly complete, and it has caused us to regret titling our earnings preview commentary on April 10, “Malaise Continues.” While the “better than feared” label fit the past couple...

For small business owners, ensuring your investment is covered is critical to ensuring the survival of your business after you are gone. One of the ways in which small business owners do this is by applying for life insurance in the...

Much has been written lately about the threats facing the reserve currency status enjoyed by the U.S. dollar. “De-dollarization” headlines appear on a near-daily basis, suggesting the dollar’s reign is in looming...

Whether you are an employee in corporate America or a small business owner, retirement is a part of life. For many, the thought of retiring and whether or not you are ready to take those first steps might be overwhelming or...

Spring is often thought of as an uplifting time, marked by growth and renewed hope as we emerge from the long months of winter and look ahead to the rest of year. Investors saw signs of such renewed hope in recent weeks, especially on...

“Sell in May and go away” is probably the most widely cited stock market cliché in history. Every year a barrage of Wall Street commentaries and stories in the financial press floods in about this popular, but overused...

Business succession planning — what is it? One of the important decisions a business owner must face is when and how to step out of the business — in other words, business succession planning. Do you expect to retire from...

Investors use various analogies to describe the importance of small businesses in the domestic economy. Some refer to the small business sector as the backbone or the lifeblood of the economy.  At this current stage of the cycle...

You may receive retirement and/or survivor's benefits from sources other than Social Security. Perhaps you are a federal employee, or maybe your employer pays you a pension. You can plan better for retirement if you know how...

The commercial real estate (CRE) market has recently captured the spotlight after being flagged as the next potential shoe to drop following last month’s banking turmoil. While rising rates have weighed on financing costs and the...

The Masters golf tournament and successful investing may seem like two completely different worlds, but they share many similarities in terms of tradition. Both have established practices that have stood the test of time, and both...

First quarter earnings season kicks off this week with some big banks reporting toward the end of the week. In some ways this quarter’s earnings season will probably be déjà vu all over again—earnings declines and...

Everyone needs to have some level of financial literacy to help manage their finances. However, financial literacy becomes even more crucial when you're a business owner. You need to become familiar with common terminology and business...

Financial markets and the Federal Reserve are reading from two different playbooks. Who is right? The markets are pricing in several rate cuts by the end of this year, while the Federal Reserve communicated more rate hikes with an...

A lot has changed in the past few weeks, both in terms of expectations for interest rates and lost confidence in the health of the banking system as a result of the sharp rise in interest rates that has led to some things...

Baseball and financial management can have more in common than meets the eye. Below, we discuss four key lessons that investors—and everyone else—can learn from America's favorite pastime. Diversification of Assets is...

In many respects, burnout is just a new term for mid-life crisis. But in some ways, it’s on a much bigger scale. Whereas you might buy a Corvette to quench a mid-life crisis, burnout can sap your energy to the point where nothing...

The Federal Reserve (Fed) has a history of raising short-term interest rates until something “breaks.” Considering the Fed has raised rates from a near-zero level to 4.75% (upper bound) over the course of only one year, it...

It's nice to own stocks, bonds, and other investments. Nice, that is, until it's time to fill out your federal income tax return. At that point, you may be left scratching your head. Just how do you report your investments and how are...

Last week did not play out how we anticipated. Coming into the week, it was all about Federal Reserve (Fed) Chair Jerome Powell’s congressional testimony and the February jobs report. Instead, we got a shockingly fast collapse of...

Getting Out of the Market Because of Taxes? Are you thinking about bailing out of stocks because you are worried that the capital gains tax structure might change? Before you hit the sell button...

Suggesting an economy makes “no landing” makes no sense. Analogies eventually break down, especially this one. Economic activity does not stop like an airplane eventually does, but rather the economy will settle into a...

Did you know that you might have to pay federal income tax on your Social Security retirement benefit? If the only income you had during the year was Social Security income, then your benefit usually isn't taxable. However, if you earned...

While concerns about the debt ceiling have been increasing, markets, businesses, and the economy are likely to see only minimal impact until we are days, or maybe a few weeks, from the “x date,” the date on which the...

Markets have adjusted to several changes this year. The pace at which inflation has cooled is slowing. The market has started to believe the Federal Reserve’s (Fed) “higher for longer” message. The bar for earnings...

Developing effective strategies for pursuing your goals within the limits of your particular financial circumstances can be difficult. Each stage of your life may create new financial challenges. Sending your child to college, remodeling...

Soft landing or no soft landing, that is the question, with all due respect to William Shakespeare. But while this may be the most commonly asked question these days, it may not be the most important or the toughest. That honor goes to...

Tax season arrives each year, rain or shine, and for many people, the idea of having to do their taxes can feel somewhat overwhelming. However, in today’s world, with advances in technology and the advent of the “app...

Investors got more excited about international investing late last year. Some of that was chasing better returns, as developed international equities solidly beat the U.S. over the last three months of 2022. Some was the increased...

Looking for ways to save "I love you" on Valentine's Day? Then you may want to consider opening a spousal individual retirement account (IRA). This gift says, "Let's grow old together comfortably," and shows your partner that you care...

If you're a business owner, you are likely the Chief Everything Officer at work and have many responsibilities. A business owner's situation is unique since they are asset-rich and cash-poor since their wealth is in their...

The script has been flipped in 2023. Last year’s underperformers have turned into outperformers this year, driving the S&P 500 Index up over 5% this month. The pace and composition of the rally have left many investors skeptical...

Merry Christmas

Timothy Lambert, CFP®

Tuesday, December 20, 2022

Wishing you and your loved ones a warm and joyful Christmas. May your holiday celebrations be filled with good cheer, wonderful surprises, and memories to last a lifetime.

3 Shrewd Maneuvers in a Down Market

Jonathan Benner, CFP®

Thursday, December 8, 2022

It’s natural to think “defense” during a bearish market season. But why not mix in some “offense” with your defense? Here are three moves we can discuss together that may be helpful during the current...

"Unretiring" To Stay in the Game

Timothy Lambert, CFP®

Thursday, November 10, 2022

Knowing when it’s the right time to retire can be difficult, especially if you love your job. Even professional athletes have a hard time knowing when to walk away!These athletes thought they were ready for retirement but...

2022 Contribution Limits

Jonathan Benner, CFP®

Monday, November 7, 2022

Late last year, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) announced new contribution limits for 2022.Staying put for 2022 are traditional Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs), with the limit remaining at $6,000. The catch-up contribution for...

Have a Hopeful Halloween

Jonathan Benner, CFP®

Friday, October 28, 2022

Lately, "inflation" seems to be the media's favorite word. Everywhere you turn, there's another story about the impact of inflation. For example, many news outlets have reported that confectionary prices have surged over 30% from last...

It's FAFSA Time

Timothy Lambert, CFP®

Wednesday, October 12, 2022

It’s FAFSA time! As your student prepares for college, they can now fill out a Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA, for the upcoming school year.Even if your student won’t require help from the government,...

Let's Talk About Extended Care

Jonathan Benner, CFP®

Tuesday, September 20, 2022

In your retirement strategy, you’ve likely put a good deal of thought into putting away enough money to enjoy your life, once you’ve put the daily grind in the rearview mirror. Like many, you’ve probably planned for a...

Check Your Withholding This Fall

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Tuesday, September 6, 2022

How much are you withholding per paycheck?Is the amount too little? (Or too much?) Find out the answer before the year ends. You may not want to discover next year that your withholding amount for this year was too small. The I.R.S....

Wise Words from Warren Buffett

Jonathan Benner, CFP®

Monday, August 22, 2022

During periods of market turbulence, I take comfort in one of my favorite Warren Buffett quotes:“Don’t watch the market closely.”The Oracle of Omaha gave this sage advice in 2016, when Brexit, China’s economic...

Summertime Checkup

Timothy Lambert, CFP®

Thursday, August 4, 2022

Summer’s here, and the time is right for vacations, outdoor activities, and fun. It’s also a good time to consider a few financial matters. Here are some questions to ask yourself mid-year.Goals still the same for 2022? Has...

How SECURE 2.0 Might Change Retirement

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Thursday, July 28, 2022

The SECURE Act of 2019 represented the biggest update to retirement law in over a decade. Now, Congress is deliberating on what “SECURE 2.0” legislation might entail.In March, the House passed the Securing a Strong...

3 Shrewd Maneuvers in a Down Market

Jonathan Benner, CFP®

Friday, July 8, 2022

It’s natural to think “defense” during a bearish market season. But why not mix in some “offense” with your defense? Here are three moves we can discuss together that may be helpful during the current...

Merry Christmas

Timothy Lambert, CFP®

Monday, December 20, 2021

We would like to wish you and your loved ones a very Merry Christmas! May the tangible and intangible gifts of the season warm your heart, and may your family and friends make the celebration exceptionally warm and bright. We have...

Five Savings Secrets

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Thursday, December 9, 2021

Are you saving for the future?People often come to me asking for financial guidance. Some want to know how to invest or diversify the money they’ve saved, but others admit to me they’re just not sure how to save. If...

401(k) Millionaires

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Monday, November 29, 2021

Your workplace retirement account can play a critical role in your overall retirement strategy. However, some have gone further with the accounts than others, especially recently.CNBC reported on findings that place 401(k) accounts at...

Know your 401(k) options between jobs

Jonathan Benner, CFP®

Thursday, November 11, 2021

Few life events are more stressful than a job loss.If you or someone you know is in this situation due to COVID-19, you’ll likely have several questions about job hunting, unemployment insurance, and health care. You may also be...

How will you pay for college tuition?

Timothy Lambert, CFP®

Tuesday, November 2, 2021

Remember when a college education was reasonably priced? In the past 20 years, the cost of college tuition for public universities has risen 165%. College students and their families have been taking on more and more debt, and they...

Distracted America

Timothy Lambert, CFP®

Wednesday, October 27, 2021

Over the last year, many have seen their lives impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The ways in which we work, live, and communicate have drastically changed, to say the least.It’s difficult to predict what other aspects of life...

A Wall of Worry

Jonathan Benner, CFP®

Tuesday, October 19, 2021

Have you ever heard the Wall Street expression, "markets climb a wall of worry?"It's the idea that financial markets are constantly on edge. Traders fret about how long a market rally can continue before it runs into trouble. Worry...

Will Air Travel Problems Persist?

Jonathan Benner, CFP®

Thursday, October 14, 2021

The airline industry plotted a course for recovery in 2021, but recent difficulties may have put that plan into a holding pattern. While major airlines checked in with improving financial results for the second quarter, both they and...

Mixed Signals on Inflation

Timothy Lambert, CFP®

Monday, October 4, 2021

Are you having a tough time keeping track of inflation's mixed signals? You’re not alone.Consumer prices in July climbed at their fastest rate since August 2008. Worse, producer prices, which can be an indicator of future price...

Are Your Taxes Going to Change?

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Wednesday, September 29, 2021

Most likely, you’ve heard what’s brewing in Washington, D.C., called by one of these names.The Build Back Better Act. Or the $3.5 trillion budget reconciliation bill. Or the Jobs and Economic Recovery Plan for Working...

A COLA with Your Social Security?

Jonathan Benner, CFP®

Sunday, September 26, 2021

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...

The Cryptocurrency Conundrum

Timothy Lambert, CFP®

Friday, September 10, 2021

Recently, you may have seen a number of major cryptocurrencies fall thanks to a continuing sell-off that began last week. In fact, over $250 billion was lost in the crypto market alone.1It may be tempting to view this as another...

Inflation & the Real Rate of Return

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Tuesday, August 24, 2021

The real rate of return is an important personal finance concept to understand.It’s the rate of return on your investments after inflation. The real rate of return indicates whether you are gaining or losing purchasing power...

Economic Lessons from Used-Car Inflation

Jonathan Benner, CFP®

Sunday, August 8, 2021

Inflation is defined as the general upward price movement of goods and services in an economy. The key word is “general.” Inflation tends to be uneven and affects the price of some items more than others.If you’ve...

Conducting Your Mid-Year Financial Checkup

Jonathan Benner, CFP®

Sunday, July 18, 2021

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...

Are You Ready for the Second Act of the S.E.C.U.R.E. Act?

Timothy Lambert, CFP®

Friday, July 9, 2021

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...

March Madness—Stock Market Edition

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Tuesday, March 16, 2021

March Madness: Stock Market Edition LPL Research share their “Final Four Factors” for the stock market in 2021 in this week’s Weekly Market Commentary, available at 1 p.m. ET. Daily Insights U.S. stocks open little...

Cyberattacks Are On the Rise Amid Work From Home – How to Protect Your Business

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Tuesday, March 16, 2021

Experienced outdoor athletes know that with winter rapidly approaching, the secret to success lies in protecting the core. That is, the body’s core temperature through layering, wicking and a host of ever-improving technical...

Rising Interest Rates Are A Global Phenomenon

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Wednesday, March 10, 2021

Today is the one-year anniversary of the low in the 10-year Treasury yield. While we’ve discussed the sharp rise in U.S. Treasury yields that have occurred this year, rising rates have been a global phenomenon. Similar to the...

How Can You Smooth the Intergenerational Transfer of a Family Business?

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Tuesday, March 9, 2021

If you own a business, you may have spent years dreaming of passing along the business to your children, nieces and nephews, or other family members after you retire. However, transferring a family business—and its ability to...

The Return of Normal is Approaching

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Thursday, March 4, 2021

It’s now been over a year since COVID-19 first hit American shores. While the pandemic has affected everyone to varying degrees, we can all agree that everyone’s life is different today than it was a year ago. It’s...

Energy and Financials Fuel February’s Markets

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Wednesday, March 3, 2021

Index Performance View enlarged chart. US and International Equities This month provided positive results for the major market indexes. The top performer was the Russell 2000 small cap index, returning over 6% for the month. Small caps...

Treasury Yields Are Rising. Now What?

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Wednesday, February 24, 2021

Treasury yields started moving sharply higher this past month (remember that as yields go up, prices go down). And while the upward march began in earnest last August when the 10-Year Treasury yield bottomed at an all-time low rate of...

Your Credit Report and Identity Theft Detection

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Tuesday, February 23, 2021

Tips for being proactive in safeguarding your identity and your credit score Identity theft is a serious crime, with increasingly greater numbers of consumers being affected every year. As part of a protection strategy, the Federal...

Managing Caregivers Stress

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Thursday, February 18, 2021

With more and more seniors aging in place, the rise in caregivers who are not health professionals has begun to increase as well. Informal caregivers may find that their work is rewarding, since they ensure that their loved one is...

Got Yield? Hold the Rate Risk, Please

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Wednesday, February 17, 2021

In LPL Research’s Weekly Market Commentary this week, we looked at some stock and bond options that may be attractive income-producing ideas for suitable income-oriented investors. On the bond side, many income-oriented investors...

Inflation Expectations Highest Since 2014

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Tuesday, February 9, 2021

The 10-year breakeven inflation rate, a market-based measure of inflation expectations, hit its highest level last Friday, February 5, since 2014. Still, at 2.21% expected annual inflation over the next 10 years, it remains a...

Tips for Growing (and Preserving) Your Family Business

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Monday, February 8, 2021

When you're first starting out with your own business, you're likely to be focused more on staying afloat than on contingency planning. But as your family business expands and grows, it's important to ensure that this is done in a...

Stay the Course

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Thursday, February 4, 2021

“In the short-term, the market is a popularity contest. In the long-term, the market is a weighing machine.” Warren Buffett 2021 is under way, as our nation and the rest of the world look to begin to put the global pandemic...

As Goes January, So Goes The Year

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Tuesday, February 2, 2021

Stocks got off to a nice start in 2021, until the late January selloff, as everyone got GameStop fever. Should bulls worry about what a down January might mean for the rest of 2021? There’s an old adage on Wall Street that...

Interest Rate Reversals Revisited

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Wednesday, January 27, 2021

In LPL Research Outlook 2021: Powering Forward, we noted that large interest rate declines historically have been followed by reversals. With the 10-year Treasury yield continuing to climb, now’s a good time for an update. As...

Tax Identity Theft Awareness - Protecting Yourself from Tax Identity Theft

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Monday, January 25, 2021

Tax identity theft is when someone steals your Social Security Number, files a tax return with your number, and directs a refund to their own bank account. In other cases, this type of identity theft may involve a scam artist calling...

Credit Spreads Limit Bond Performance Outlook

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Tuesday, January 19, 2021

Investment-grade credit spreads, the extra yield you get from investment-grade corporate bonds compared to similarly dated US Treasuries, have already tightened to a level you usually only see during the middle of the economic...

Tips for Organizing Your Financial Documents

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Tuesday, January 19, 2021

In an increasingly paper-free society, organizing your financial documents can still be a challenge. No matter how simple or complex your financial picture might be, it takes some thought-out organization to keep your tax documents,...

Treasuries Hit Key Levels

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Wednesday, January 13, 2021

Treasury yields hit two key levels the first week of 2021. As shown in the LPL Chart of the Day, the 10-year Treasury yield moved above 1% for the first time since March 2020, and the 10-year breakeven inflation rate, a measure of...

Are You Financially Fit?

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Monday, January 11, 2021

If you don't have a financial plan, that question may be hard to answer. To achieve financial wellness, you need to define your goals and set a time frame for reaching them. The following steps can help you take control of your...

2021 Brings a Fresh Start

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Thursday, January 7, 2021

Happy New Year! A new year offers a welcomed turn of the calendar and a fresh start. However, it’s difficult to put 2020 completely behind us just yet because the COVID-19 pandemic still presents a significant threat. Healthcare...

December Market Insights

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Tuesday, January 5, 2021

Market Blog View enlarged table. US and International Equities The S&P 500 Index, Dow Jones Industrial, and Nasdaq Composite indexes, continued their November run in December. As noted last month, November was a record-breaking month...

Three Fed Takeaways from an Extraordinary Year

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Wednesday, December 30, 2020

2020 was an extraordinary year for the Federal Reserve (Fed). The Fed responded swiftly and decisively to the rapidly accelerating financial and economic uncertainty brought on by efforts to contain the COVID-19 pandemic. The current...

Stimulus Bill May Help

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Wednesday, December 23, 2020

Stimulus Bridges to Recovery Recent economic data shows evidence of slowing momentum in the US economy, but the new stimulus package could keep the recovery moving forward. This week’s Market Signals podcast reviews the stimulus...

How the Winter Solstice Can Impact Your Budget

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Thursday, December 17, 2020

Last year, the average American spent nearly $1,000 per person on holiday gifts, up from about $885 per person in 2018.1 Though the COVID-19 pandemic continues to weigh on the retail sector (and many Americans' bank accounts), some...

4 More Years of Dollar Weakness?

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Wednesday, December 16, 2020

Back in July, we wrote in our July 23 LPL Research blog that dollar weakness may continue, highlighting a short-term bearish technical case for the US dollar. Since then, the Bloomberg US Dollar Index and the US Dollar Index (DXY) are...

Creating a Business Plan for Small Businesses

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Tuesday, December 15, 2020

Your business plan is an important part of creating a business and a critical tool for drawing in lenders and investors. If you're thinking about launching a small business or if you want to take your small business in a new direction,...

How to Structure Charitable Giving Throughout Your Lifetime

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Wednesday, December 9, 2020

Charitable giving is a way for affluent individuals spread their money around and to benefit causes that are near and dear to their hearts. Yet, for those who fall into the high net worth category, it is critical to structure...

Highlights of Outlook 2021: Powering Forward

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Tuesday, December 8, 2020

2020 has been a tumultuous year, and as we near its close, we are pleased to present Outlook 2021: Powering Forward, which outlines our views on markets, the economy, and policy into 2021 and beyond. Policy changes should be relatively...

Outlook 2021: Powering Forward

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Tuesday, December 8, 2020

2020 has been a tumultuous year, and as we near its close, we are pleased to present Outlook 2021: Powering Forward, which outlines our views on markets, the economy, and policy into 2021 and beyond. Click Here to Download the PDF

Outlook for 2021

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Thursday, December 3, 2020

Dear Valued Investor: As 2020 comes to a close, we are already looking forward to a new year—and to a world very different from the one we’re leaving behind. Areas of the economy have been damaged and may never fully...

Corporate Bonds Tilting Toward Expensive

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Wednesday, December 2, 2020

Not surprisingly, corporate credit spreads widened dramatically back in March 2020, making corporate bonds cheap relative to historical averages. (Credit spreads are the extra yield corporate bonds offer versus similarly dated...

Treasury Yields After Recessions End

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Wednesday, November 25, 2020

It may be a year or more before the end of the recession is officially called, but gauging from the growth we’ve seen since April, it may already be over. If that’s true, it’s a good time to take a look at what US...

4 Reasons to Do Your Shopping on Small Business Saturday

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Tuesday, November 24, 2020

When Thanksgiving rolls around, the holiday shopping season comes into full swing. While many people prepare their strategy for Black Friday shopping, a lot of them forget about the second shopping holiday that weekend: Small Business...

2 Reasons Long-Term Rates Could Continue to Rise

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Wednesday, November 18, 2020

Fixed income investors aren’t used to having to deal with the volatility of stocks, but in the year that is 2020, that is exactly what has happened thus far. Unfortunately, while we don’t see the volatility of Q1 2020...

Earnings Rebound Picking up Speed

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Thursday, November 12, 2020

Third quarter earnings season has been outstanding relative to expectations by many measures. Some of the highlights: S&P 500 Index earnings are tracking to a 7.5% year-over-year decline, as shown in the LPL Chart of the Day, more than...

End of Year Planning: Set Goals and Reduce Taxes

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Tuesday, November 10, 2020

By the last third of the calendar year, you're likely to have a pretty good idea of what your annual income will be and whether any major expenses or big life changes await you. This can allow you to engage in more robust tax planning,...

Election Clarity for the Markets

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Monday, November 9, 2020

November 9, 2020 Dear Valued Investor: Former Vice President Joe Biden has been elected the 46th President of the United States, defeating President Donald Trump in a tight race and bringing an end to the highly contested 2020 election...

Election 2020 is Undecided

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Wednesday, November 4, 2020

November 4, 2020 Dear Valued Investor: The American people have voted, casting a record number of ballots under extraordinary circumstances, which is a testament to the enduring resilience of our democracy. Determining the outcome of...

The Best Day Of The Year Is This Week

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Wednesday, October 28, 2020

Market Blog With the election only eight days away and earnings season in full swing, stocks have bucked the usual October weakness during election years so far in 2020 (Monday’s losses notwithstanding). The good news is this...

Retirement Planning—Options for Women Business Owners

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Friday, October 23, 2020

You’re an entrepreneur and you’re not looking back. You’ve opened your own business, whether alone or with other partners, and you’ve found some success. You’ve hired employees, or not, depending on your...

Treasury Return Expectations Historically Low

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Tuesday, October 20, 2020

The 10-year US Treasury yield, at 0.77% as of October 19, is still near historical lows set earlier this year. Historically, 10-year Treasury performance for the next 10 years has tended to track the Treasury yield at the start of the...

Under-the-Radar Signal That Rates May Head Higher

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Wednesday, October 14, 2020

Market Blog The 10-year Treasury yield has stayed in a narrow range since April 2020, helped by a supportive Federal Reserve and ongoing concerns about the COVID-19 pandemic. As shown in LPL’s Chart of the Day, the 10-year...

What Should Women Entrepreneurs Do to Thrive in the COVID Era?

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Tuesday, October 13, 2020

With COVID rocking the employment landscape for job-seekers, some women have taken this opportunity to reinvent themselves and take charge of their own financial futures by launching a business. Entrepreneurship is one of the most...

What Fringe Benefits Can Best Motivate Your Workforce?

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Thursday, October 8, 2020

When it comes to fringe benefits like health insurance, 401(k) matching, and life insurance, it can be hard to drum up much excitement among your staff. But by offering some lesser-known fringe benefits, from transportation...

Fixed Income Excels in the Third Quarter

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Wednesday, October 7, 2020

The third quarter was characterized by the carry-over of economic momentum from the second quarter, as states continued to lift restrictions to reopen their economies. Perhaps it was no surprise that some of the hardest hit and most...

Signs of Strength in the Economy

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Thursday, October 1, 2020

Dear Valued Investor: Autumn has arrived, with students back in school, baseball playoffs beginning, and football in full swing. Life is trying to get back to as normal as possible despite the ongoing impact from COVID-19. While the...

How Corporate Bond Spreads Respond to Equity Market Volatility

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Wednesday, September 30, 2020

An old Wall Street adage says bond markets are smarter than equity markets, so when stocks encounter volatility, investors often look to the bond market for clues about the potential severity of equity market weakness. The...

Year-End Tax Planning

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Tuesday, September 29, 2020

As the end of the year approaches, it's time to consider strategies that could help you reduce your tax bill. But most tax tips, suggestions, and strategies are of little practical help without a good understanding of your current tax...

Appropriate Checklists for Year-End Tax Planning

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Thursday, September 24, 2020

What are appropriate checklists for year-end tax planning? Tax planners often develop checklists to guide taxpayers toward year-end strategies that might help reduce taxes. Typically, suggestions are grouped into several different...

How Bonds May Perform When Rates and Stocks Fall

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Wednesday, September 23, 2020

A few weeks ago we looked at how different bond sectors performed during rising rate periods during the last economic cycle (2009–2020). Today we look at falling rate periods—not the outcome we expect, but it can still be...

Central Banks Speak

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Wednesday, September 16, 2020

The US Federal Reserve (Fed) and Bank of Japan (BoJ) both meet this week, while the European Central Bank (ECB) met last week. When central bankers talk— markets listen. “The global economy has been steadying faster than...

National Life Insurance Awareness Month

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Tuesday, September 15, 2020

Should you really consider getting life insurance when you are close to 60? September is National Life Insurance Awareness month. And while most of us likely recognize that life insurance provides us peace of mind and security, there...

LPL Street View: The Recession Is Likely Over

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Wednesday, September 9, 2020

Economic Blog In the recent LPL Market Street View video, LPL Financial’s Chief Market Strategist Ryan Detrick discusses why the recession is likely over, making it one of the shortest recessions ever. Some reasons discussed...

How to Protect Your Wealth as You Get Older

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Tuesday, September 8, 2020

As you get older and closer to retirement, your financial practices need to shift slightly as you transition from working and saving to relying on your nest egg. As you approach this stage of your life, you need to take steps to...

Back to School in a New Way

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Thursday, September 3, 2020

Dear Valued Investor: Back to school this year will be different. On the one hand, like other years, it marks the end of summer, the arrival of cooler weather, kids hitting the books again, and Labor Day gatherings. But unlike other...

3 Charts To Watch If You Are Bullish

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Wednesday, September 2, 2020

The S&P 500 Index just closed the door on its best August since 1986, making new all-time highs along the way, while also closing up five months in a row. First things first, make no mistake about it; this is a new bull market. That of...

When Do Rates Start Rising After a Recession?

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Wednesday, August 26, 2020

As the economy begins to recover, with the early stage more robust than expected, we increasingly get asked when interest rates will move meaningfully higher. As shown in the LPL Chart of the Day, historically rates don’t start...

6 Essential Tips for Retirement Planning

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Thursday, August 20, 2020

Retirement planning is all about the future, your future. Whether you are classified as a millennial, Gen Xers, women, or you are in your 40s-50s, retirement planning is a must. The key to successful retirement planning is starting...

A Nike-Inspired Checklist to Help You Plan

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Friday, August 7, 2020

Whether you’re a millennial, baby boomer, Gen X or Gen Z, you face financial questions besides just getting through to next payday. Here’s a simple two-step Nike-inspired checklist to help you start planning with your money...

Positive Territory

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Thursday, August 6, 2020

The battle versus COVID-19 continues. The spread in some of the recent hotspots like California and Florida is slowing, while states in the Northeast and Midwest are now experiencing increases in cases. According to the World Health...

Are Recessions Good For Stocks?

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Wednesday, August 5, 2020

This isn’t like any recession we’ve ever seen, as it was sparked by a horrible pandemic and happened because people were told to stay inside. The impact was the worst contraction in gross domestic product (GDP) last quarter...

Executive Compensation: Equity Compensation for Corporate Executives

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Thursday, July 23, 2020

When it comes to executive-level pay or compensation, financial compensation comes in a number of forms, including salary, bonuses, and other forms of compensation, such as equity compensation. This type of compensation is often used...

Let’s Get Real About Yields

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Wednesday, July 22, 2020

While the 10-year Treasury yield has traded in a narrow range since early April, the equivalent real yield, represented by the yield on 10-year Treasury inflation-protected securities (TIPS), has continued to fall and could go lower....

Tax Planning for Family Business Succession

Timothy Lambert, CFP®

Tuesday, July 21, 2020

Many owners of family businesses are so busy running their companies that they never get around to making formal arrangements to pass on the business to the next generation or to other partners. But a failure to prepare for having to...

The Sandwich Generation: Juggling Family Responsibilities

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Thursday, July 16, 2020

At a time when your career is reaching a peak and you are looking ahead to your own retirement, you may find yourself in the position of having to help your children with college expenses while at the same time looking after the needs...

Real-Time Data Recovery Stalled Amid COVID-19 Resurgence

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Wednesday, July 15, 2020

We check in again today on some of the real-time economic data that LPL Research is monitoring to provide insight into how the latest increase in COVID-19 cases and the rollback of certain reopening measures are affecting the state of...

Economically Sensitive Fixed Income Sectors Lead in Second Quarter

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Wednesday, July 8, 2020

The Bloomberg Barclays US Aggregate Bond Index posted a solid total return of 2.9% in the second quarter of 2020, its eighth consecutive quarterly gain, and a relatively strong quarter for the broad investment-grade bond index...

Using Trusts to Manage Wealth: What Investors Should Know

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Tuesday, July 7, 2020

Whether you manage a trust for someone else, are the beneficiary of a trust, or are thinking of creating a trust, you probably have some questions about the "best practices" of trust management. A well-managed trust can help preserve...

A Letter to Our Clients: July 2020

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Wednesday, July 1, 2020

Dear Valued Investor: The July Fourth holiday will be very different this year. Although it’s a time to enjoy family and friends, and maybe even watch some fireworks, social distancing and a new wave of COVID-19 cases also may...

Critical Business Strategies for Entrepreneurs Preparing for Retirement

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Friday, June 26, 2020

When you work for an employer, saving for retirement can be as simple as signing up for a 401(k) plan and making regular contributions, but when you own your own business, preparing for retirement can be more challenging. While pouring...

Moving to the Next Phase on the Road to Recovery

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Wednesday, June 24, 2020

The US economy has made impressive progress in recent weeks. As the economy re-opens, the way we assess the recovery has changed. In March and April, we were looking for evidence that growth in COVID-19 cases was...

HOW TO DEVELOP A MONEY MINDSET THAT ALIGNS WITH YOUR GOALS

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Thursday, June 18, 2020

Financial goals are essential. Setting them will help you to obtain the things you want out of life as well as live the lifestyle you desire, both during your working years and in your retirement. But obtaining these goals isn't always...

What Happens After Historic Rate Declines?

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Wednesday, June 17, 2020

The yield on the 10-year Treasury yield has been broadly declining since the early 1980s, when it peaked over 15%, but even over that long decline there have been intermittent periods of rising rates. In fact, after periods of...

It’s Official, We’re In A Recession

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Wednesday, June 10, 2020

In probably one of the least surprising economic calls of all time, the Nation Bureau of Economic Research (NBER) officially declared an end to the longest expansion ever and the start of a new recession. As shown in the LPL Chart of...

Family Business—Laying the Groundwork for Potential Success

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Tuesday, June 9, 2020

Is your growing business still a one-person operation? As your company continues to grow and the workload increases, it is easy to find yourself wearing too many hats and not having enough hours in the day to accomplish everything that...

Looking Forward

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Friday, June 5, 2020

Dear Valued Investor: As we look ahead to the summer months, we can’t help but think what a challenging year it’s been so far. At the same time, we’re encouraged by the resiliency and accelerated innovation among US...

2020 In Charts

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Wednesday, June 3, 2020

2020 is only five months old, but in many ways it is one of the most historic years we’ve ever seen. “2020 went from moving along nicely, to seeing the worst recession in a generation and the fastest bear market ever...

Corporate Bond Spreads Decline as Fed Increases ETF Purchases

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Wednesday, May 27, 2020

The Federal Reserve (Fed) increased its bond exchange-traded funds (ETF) purchases in the week ending May 20 (the most recent data available), adding another $1.5 billion in bond ETFs to its balance sheet, bringing the total holding...

Better Times Are Coming

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Thursday, May 21, 2020

May 21, 2020 Dear Valued Investor: “Never confuse a single defeat with a final defeat.” — F. Scott Fitzgerald The economic struggles in our country are among the worst we’ve ever seen. In April, a record 20...

Fed Says No to Negative Rates

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Wednesday, May 20, 2020

There’re plenty of people who think negative interest rates are a good policy. But we don’t really think so at the Federal Reserve. And I think it’s an area of real uncertainty in the central banking world. -Fed...

The Inflationary Impact of COVID-19 Stimulus

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Tuesday, May 19, 2020

Should you worry about inflation, deflation, hyperinflation, or stagflation? The coronavirus outbreak, which was first detected in China, has infected millions of people in hundreds of countries and has left global governments,...

Why Gold Will Continue To Shine

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Wednesday, May 13, 2020

Gold has done quite well so far in 2020, up more than 12% year to date versus the S&P 500 Index which is down about 10%. We started to warm to the yellow metal late last year and continue to think it can serve as a potential hedge in...

Remembering the Flash Crash

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Wednesday, May 6, 2020

One of the most historic market crashes ever took place 10 years ago today, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average Index plunging more than 1,000 points, or 9%, within minutes, only to regain most of the losses by the end of the day....

Happy Teacher's Appreciation Day to Teachers Navigating Their Calling Outside the Classroom

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Tuesday, May 5, 2020

This year, Teacher's Appreciation Week runs from May 4 to May 8, but rather than being in the classroom, most teachers will be at home, navigating their calling outside the classroom. When the coronavirus hit the United States,...

Hats Off to Public Service Workers During the Coronavirus

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Thursday, April 30, 2020

While many people have been furloughed and others are working from home, public service workers have continued to show up at work every day as the coronavirus spreads through the United States. During Public Service Recognition Week...

Silver Lining in Consumer Confidence Data

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Wednesday, April 29, 2020

The Conference Board’s Consumer Confidence Index (CCI) for April came in 86.9, falling more than 30 points from the prior month. The monthly drop was the biggest for the index since 1973, reflecting the severity of the economic...

The Masters Altered Traditions Due to COVID-19

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Thursday, April 23, 2020

Scheduled annually for the first full week of April, the Masters is the first major of the year. Except in 2020. On March 13th, Fred Ridley, Chairman of Augusta National Golf Club, told the sports world that the Masters Tournament, the...

When Will The Recession Officially Start?

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Wednesday, April 22, 2020

With 22 million jobs lost in the past four weeks, a record drop in retail sales, and huge drops in industrial production and housing starts, it is safe to say we are likely in a recession. Even the Federal Reserve (Fed) in the recent...

What You Need to Know About the Paycheck Protection Program

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Tuesday, April 21, 2020

As the country comes together to try to slow the spread of the coronavirus, many businesses have been forced to suspend operations, while many others have experienced a sharp decline in revenue. To encourage businesses to continue...

Small Business Owners Guide to the CARES Act

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Thursday, April 16, 2020

As part of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, the government has funded a number of initiatives to help small businesses. As you navigate this difficult time, you may want to look into the following...

Can Stocks Close Higher In 2020?

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Wednesday, April 15, 2020

What a ride 2020 has been for investors. The fastest bear market ever, now one of the steepest recoveries ever. After being down more than 30% for the year on March 23, this recovery is extremely impressive. In fact, before yesterday,...

A Letter to Our Clients: April 2020

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Tuesday, April 14, 2020

Dear Valued Investor: These are challenging times, and this week may be the toughest as we wait for COVID-19 to reach its peak in the United States. As the war against COVID-19 wages on, we continue to be inspired by the tremendous...

Big Annual Declines are Rare

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Wednesday, April 8, 2020

Stocks have rallied nicely off the March 23 lows on the back of a bold policy response from the Federal Reserve (Fed) and lawmakers in Washington, DC, which was followed by signs that a peak in growth of COVID-19 cases may come soon....

7 Tips to Help You Stay Productive at Home

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Friday, April 3, 2020

With the rapid spreading of COVID-19, and more and more people either on self-quarantine or practicing social distancing, many of us are working from home. While working from home definitely has its perks – no commute! –...

Street View: Is a Depression Coming?

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Thursday, April 2, 2020

“Could there be another depression” is one of the top questions we’ve received over the past week. “Yes, we are in a recession and many are worried if things may get much worse before they get better,”...

Market Volatility Stresses Liquidity

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Wednesday, March 25, 2020

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused unprecedented volatility in recent weeks that has investors and traders scrambling to assess the economic and market impact of the aggressive containment measures. This past week the CBOE Volatility...

A Clear Vision of Financial Goals

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Thursday, March 19, 2020

Dear Valued Investor: Our everyday lives have changed dramatically over the last few weeks as we work together to minimize the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. We know these efforts are necessary, but they also have come at a cost....

How Quickly Can Stocks Recover From COVID-19?

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Wednesday, March 18, 2020

The market volatility continues, as the S&P 500 Index has closed either up or down 4% or more for a record 7 consecutive days. With the S&P 500 Index down 30% from the highs, it has officially moved into a bear market. Yesterday, we...

Our Response to COVID-19

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Tuesday, March 17, 2020

We want to share information about the steps we’ve taken to minimize any potential impact to our clients as a result of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) situation and maximize our efforts to keep our team and clients safe. This event,...

Market Volatility and the Importance of Staying the Course at Different Ages

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Wednesday, March 11, 2020

When you invest in the stock market, you want to see growth, but unfortunately, in most cases, investments do not grow all the time. Inevitably, the market goes up and down, and to safeguard your potential for long-term growth, you...

March 2020: Market Update

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Tuesday, March 10, 2020

March 9, 2020 Dear Valued Investor: The tough times that global markets were experiencing due to the spread of COVID-19 (coronavirus) worsened this past weekend as a price war between Saudi Arabia and Russia resulted in sharply...

Key Employees: Protecting Your Most Valuable Assets

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Friday, March 6, 2020

Suppose you arrive at your company one morning and discover that a key employee died unexpectedly the night before. Have you ever considered how such a turn of events may affect your company? Along with losing a valued member of your...

A Letter to Clients: March 2020

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Thursday, March 5, 2020

March 5, 2020 Dear Valued Investor: It’s been a tough week. The number of coronavirus cases have continued to increase globally, and new cases have been confirmed in the United States. Countries are making progress with...

First Emergency Rate Cut By the Fed Since 2008

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Wednesday, March 4, 2020

In a move in which the timing was more compelling than the decision itself, the Federal Reserve (Fed) announced this morning that it unanimously decided to cut its policy rate by 50 basis points (0.5%) from the 1.5-1.75% range to the...

A Letter to Clients: The Coronavirus

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Wednesday, February 26, 2020

Dear Valued Investor: Monday was a tough day in the stock market, with the S&P 500 Index down more than 3% as the number of coronavirus cases reported outside of China jumped. Monday’s losses reversed all of this year’s...

DAILY INSIGHTS

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Wednesday, February 19, 2020

Stock markets modestly lower after renewed coronavirus concern. Apple’s announcement that the coronavirus would impact sales had international markets striking a cautious tone overnight, with the technology sector getting much...

Financial Wellness: Establishing an Emergency Fund

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Friday, February 14, 2020

First the car broke down, then the dishwasher stopped working, and now the dog is sick. Sometimes the old proverb, "It never rains but it pours," seems to ring a little too true. When you need money to pay large, unexpected bills,...

Helping to Care for Aging Parents

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Friday, February 14, 2020

Many adults are finding that their aging parents are in need of health care assistance. Luckily, there are many options available today to help your parents grow old gracefully, either in their own home or in a facility, and several...

Financial Planning Tips for Small Business Owners

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Friday, February 14, 2020

When you're a small business owner, you need to pay extra careful attention to both your business and personal finances. Your financial planning strategies should simultaneously encourage the success of your business while also working...

A Letter to Clients: February 2020

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Thursday, February 13, 2020

Dear Valued Investor: The start of 2020 has brought increased stock market volatility. The uncharacteristically calm market environment we experienced for much of the past four months was bound to end, but identifying the catalyst for...

Yield Curve Back in the News

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Wednesday, February 12, 2020

The financial media returned to a favorite topic in the last week, yield curve inversion, but we caution against getting caught up in the building frenzy. The Treasury yield curve inverts when short-term interest rates move above...

Investing for the Long Haul: 5 Tips for Millennials

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Friday, February 7, 2020

As Millennials establish themselves in their careers and as adults, now is the time for these 20- and 30-year-olds to begin investing. Developing a lifelong process of saving and investing for the future is the key to this...

Are Yields Near a Bottom?

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Wednesday, February 5, 2020

Economic Blog The 10-year U.S. Treasury yield moved to within .05% of its recent low on Friday, January 31, approaching the 1.47% mark set back in August 2019. Prospects of stabilizing global growth and progress on trade encouraged...

2020 doesn't just mark a new year, but the beginning of a new decade—and with it, some more changes to the federal tax code. It can often be easy to put tax preparation on the back burner, but being proactive can help you save...

Viral Outbreak Ends Period of Market Calm

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Wednesday, January 29, 2020

Market Blog Fears that the deadly coronavirus would spread further around the globe intensified Monday and led to the biggest one-day drop in the S&P 500 Index since October 8, 2019. In fact, it was the first time the index moved 1%...

Recession Watch Update

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Wednesday, January 22, 2020

ECONOMIC BLOG As the economic expansion caps its first decade, we thought it’d be a good time to check on LPL Research’s leading indicators in our Recession Watch Dashboard. As you can see in our latest update and in the...

Retirement Planning for Teachers and Public School Workers

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Tuesday, January 21, 2020

The ability to enjoy a secure retirement is an objective that many teachers and their colleagues pursue years before they leave their jobs. Many public school workers, in different positions, devote their lives to furthering the...

Healthy But Manageable Consumer Inflation

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Wednesday, January 15, 2020

Consumer inflationary pressures grew at a healthy, but manageable rate in December 2019. The core Consumer Price Index (CPI), which excludes food and energy, rose 2.3% year over year last month, around the fastest pace of the economic...

10 Ways the Secure Act Will Impact Your Retirement Savings

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Tuesday, January 14, 2020

With the decline of traditional pensions, most of us are now responsible for squirrelling away money for our own retirement. In today's do-it-yourself retirement savings world, we rely largely on 401(k) plans and IRAs. However, there...

Conducting a Home Inventory

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Thursday, January 9, 2020

A home inventory is a complete and detailed written list of all your personal property that's located in your home and stored in other structures like garages and toolsheds. It should include your possessions as well as those of family...

What Mideast Escalation Means for Markets

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Tuesday, January 7, 2020

The U.S. airstrike that killed the top Iranian military commander last week was a major escalation in Mideast tensions. In fact, it would be difficult to overstate the geopolitical significance of this action. Iran likely will...

A LETTER TO CLIENTS: JANUARY 2020

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Friday, January 3, 2020

Dear Valued Investor: Happy New Year! What a difference a year makes. One year ago the stock market was plunging and came perilously close to ending what has become the longest bull market ever recorded. In December 2018, dropping...

Yield Curve’s the Biggest Fixed Income Story of 2019

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Thursday, January 2, 2020

The inverted yield curve was the biggest story of 2019 in the bond market. Historically, when long-term bond yields fall below short-term yields, as the 2- and 10-year Treasury yields did in August, recessions have tended to follow,...

A Beneficial Course in Budget Basics

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Wednesday, December 25, 2019

One extra curricular activity that every student should master before heading off to college is personal money management. Typically, a student’s day-to-day spending is done on an ad-lib basis, meaning that overspending is the...

Is It Time For Santa?

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Tuesday, December 17, 2019

Economic Blog December 17, 2019 December has been widely viewed as a strong month for stocks, with this year following suit so far. What many probably don’t realize, however, is the majority of the gains have taken place late in...

Alternative Energy: A Perfect Way to Be Socially Responsible With Your Investments

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Monday, December 16, 2019

Socially responsible investing (SRI) is a strategy to make your investments more impactful by supporting ecological and social causes. SRI investors invest their money to support companies that value transparency in their business...

Four Fed Hikes, One Year Later

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Friday, December 13, 2019

Four Fed Hikes, One Year Later Posted by lplresearch The Federal Reserve’s (Fed) final policy meeting of 2019 starts today and will conclude tomorrow with the release of the Fed’s policy statement, updated economic...

The Financial Fitness Challenge: Tips for Strengthening Your Financial Health

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Tuesday, December 10, 2019

Diet books. Fitness apps. Live-streamed exercise classes. They all tell you the same thing: Maintaining good physical health requires discipline and adherence to a few simple habits, such as eating wisely, getting enough sleep, and...

Outlook 2020: Bringing Markets Into Focus

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Tuesday, December 3, 2019

Hindsight is 20/20, but finding clarity in future uncertainty can be fuzzy. AT LPL RESEARCH, as we look forward to the year 2020 and a new decade, some key trends and market signals will be important to watch, including progress on U...

Small Caps Join the Party

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Tuesday, November 26, 2019

It took nearly 15 months, but the Russell 2000 Index finally broke out to a new 52-week high. On November 25, the Russell 2000 gained an impressive 2.1% to close at its highest level since October 2018. Small caps have lagged their...

A Letter to Clients: November 2019

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Monday, November 25, 2019

Dear Valued Investor: Turning the calendar from October to November brought more than trick-or-treaters, pumpkins, and leaves to rake. It also brought a wave of important economic updates that delivered more treats than tricks and...

Three Amazing Streaks

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Wednesday, November 20, 2019

“We’re going streaking!” Frank The Tank in Old School As the bull market continues to make new highs, the past few weeks have seen some amazing market streaks. Here are three that have caught our attention. The S&P...

Putting The Bull In Perspective

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Wednesday, November 13, 2019

The S&P 500 Index has closed higher five consecutive weeks, making six new all-time highs along the way. There now have been 19 new highs in 2019, tying the number we saw last year. There’s no doubt that this bull market has been...

Protect Your Assets with a Trust

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Monday, November 11, 2019

Contrary to what many people think, trusts are not reserved only for the wealthy. The truth is, people from all walks of life may benefit from a trust. What Is a Trust? Generally speaking, a trust is a legal entity that allows someone...

A Business Plan Can Be Your Guide to Growth

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Monday, November 11, 2019

Whether you're a current business owner or a budding entrepreneur burning with the next great idea, one of the most important steps you can take on your road to success is creating a business plan. Why? A well-thought-out and...

Post Divorce Long Term Care Planning for Business Owners

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Monday, November 11, 2019

Going through a divorce can be a difficult experience both emotionally and financially. If you are divorced, you are not alone: approximately 40 to 50 percent of marriages in the United States end in divorce.[1] While transitioning...

10 Terms Every Investor Should Know

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Monday, November 11, 2019

If you're new to investing, you may encounter some unfamiliar jargon. Understanding the following terms may help you become a more confident investor. Portfolio An investment portfolio is a collection of investments owned by an...

Bulls Stay in Motion

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Wednesday, November 6, 2019

“An object in motion tends to remain in motion along a straight line unless acted upon by an outside force.” Sir Isaac Newton What a year it has been for the bulls. The S&P 500 Index recently made four more new highs, and...

Will The Fed Go Three For Three?

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Wednesday, October 30, 2019

The Federal Reserve Bank (Fed) is widely expected to cut interest rates on Wednesday, October 30, which would be the third cut this year after nine consecutive hikes. The current fed funds rate target is 1.75–2%, with a 25 basis...

Another Brexit Delay Likely

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Wednesday, October 23, 2019

The United Kingdom’s (U.K.) withdrawal from the European Union (E.U.), or Brexit, is stumbling along, and another delay looks increasingly likely. The U.K. Parliament’s “Super Saturday” voting session last...

Protect Your Assets With a Trust

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Friday, October 18, 2019

Contrary to what many people think, trusts are not reserved only for the wealthy. The truth is, people from all walks of life may benefit from a trust. What Is a Trust? Generally speaking, a trust is a legal entity that allows someone...

Light at the End of the Brexit Tunnel

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Wednesday, October 16, 2019

The debate over the United Kingdom’s (U.K.) withdrawal from the European Union (EU), or Brexit, is reaching another milepost in what could be an action-packed week. Talks between the U.K. government and the EU have entered...

Can The Economy Predict The Next President?

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Wednesday, October 9, 2019

“The economy, stupid” — Phrase campaign strategist James Carville used to help Bill Clinton get elected in 1992. As Carville noted ahead of the 1992 election, the recession in 1990 and 1991 was top of mind for many...

A Letter to Clients - October 2019

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Tuesday, October 8, 2019

Dear Valued Investor: Summer has turned to fall, and there’s already a little chill in the air. Three-quarters of the year is behind us now, and both stock and bond markets have had a strong year so far, although we expect to see...

Socially Responsible Investing

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Tuesday, October 8, 2019

Investing with an eye toward promoting social, political, or environmental concerns (or at least not supporting activities you feel are harmful) doesn't mean you have to forgo pursuing a return on your money. Socially responsible...

Avoid These Financial Traps -- They May Be Hazardous to Your Wealth

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Thursday, October 3, 2019

Money. It's hard to get and easy to lose. It doesn't take long for the wealth you've accumulated to disappear if you don't manage your money well or have a plan to protect your assets from sudden calamity. Snares like the ones...

U.S. Manufacturing Drops to 10-Year Low

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Wednesday, October 2, 2019

U.S. manufacturing activity fell to a 10-year low, dragged down by a weakening global economy. The Institute for Supply Management’s (ISM) Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) fell to 47.6 in September, the lowest level since...

A Two-Week Rollercoaster in Yields

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Wednesday, September 25, 2019

As shown in the LPL Chart of the Day, the 10-year Treasury yield jumped 34 basis points (0.34%) in the week ending September 13, then gave back half that gain in a 17 basis point (0.17%) slide last week. The benchmark yield...

Key Employee Life and Disability Insurance

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Tuesday, September 24, 2019

You've got a great group working for you now, and business is good. You know that much of that success is due to one or two key people with both skills and personalities that are hard to match. Suppose they were injured and out of work...

Take a Cue from Mom and Dad

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Friday, September 20, 2019

Each generation, it seems, strives to distinguish itself from the former generation. Trendy hairstyles, funky fashion, special slang, alternative lifestyles, and even different ideals are eagerly adopted in an effort to differentiate...

A New High in CPI Growth

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Wednesday, September 18, 2019

Consumer inflation has accelerated recently, bucking disinflation and deflation concerns that had permeated financial markets earlier this year. In August, the core Consumer Price Index (CPI) increased at least 0.3% for a third...

THREE KEY QUESTIONS TO ANSWER BEFORE TAKING SOCIAL SECURITY

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Tuesday, September 10, 2019

Social Security is a critical component of the retirement financial strategy for many Americans, so before you begin taking it, you should consider three important questions. The answers may affect whether you make the most of this...

Helping to Care for Aging Parents

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Friday, September 6, 2019

Many adults are finding that their aging parents are in need of health care assistance. Luckily, there are many options available today to help your parents grow old gracefully, either in their own home or in a facility, and several...

Do Major Hurricanes Impact Stocks?

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Wednesday, September 4, 2019

First and foremost, our thoughts are with all of those that were impacted by Hurricane Dorian over the Labor Day holiday and all those that are still in its path. Many have asked us what stocks tend to do after a major hurricane hits...

Helping to Care for Aging Parents

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Thursday, August 29, 2019

Many adults are finding that their aging parents are in need of health care assistance. Luckily, there are many options available today to help your parents grow old gracefully, either in their own home or in a facility, and several...

Trade Uncertainty Still Weighing on Capital Investment

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Wednesday, August 28, 2019

Business investment remains a critical component for this economic expansion. Capital expenditures (capex) drive productivity gains (more output per hour worked), which enables economic growth while keeping inflation contained. That...

Breaking Down China’s Slowdown

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Wednesday, August 21, 2019

Trade tensions continue to weigh on China’s growth, creating added pressure to reach a trade deal with the United States. Economic reports released last week provided further confirmation that the trade war is continuing to...

Balancing Act: Saving for Both Retirement and College

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Tuesday, August 20, 2019

Linda and Peter are worried about their financial future. "We want our one-year-old son, Raymond, to go to college, but we're concerned that in 17 years, the cost might be more than we can afford," says Peter. "We also need to save for...

Consumer Inflation Picks Up

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Wednesday, August 14, 2019

Consumer inflation has surged back after a strong quarter of U.S. consumer demand. As shown in the LPL Chart of the Day, Consumer Inflation Picks Up in July, the core Consumer Price Index (CPI), which excludes food and energy prices,...

Teaching Your College-Age Child about Money

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Tuesday, August 13, 2019

When your child first started school, you doled out the change for milk and a snack on a daily basis. But now that your kindergartner has grown up, it's time for you to make sure that your child has enough financial knowledge to manage...

Is a Trade Deal Still Possible?

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Wednesday, August 7, 2019

We’re a week into August, and trade tensions have been the biggest driver of U.S. stocks, as we predicted in our latest Weekly Market Commentary. Markets don’t like uncertainty, and we are getting a heavy dose of it now. On...

Here Comes August, Time to Buckle Up?

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Wednesday, July 31, 2019

It has been a great year for stocks. As of July 30, 2019, the S&P 500 Index is up more than 20% so far in 2019. To put that in perspective, since WWII only seven years have been up more than 20% by the end of July, with 1997 being the...

Checking On The Calendar

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Wednesday, July 24, 2019

“I’ve been on a calendar, but I’ve never been on time.” Marilyn Monroe We’ve pondered where the S&P 500 Index could go now that it’s near our fair-value target of 3,000. As we discussed in the latest...

Breathe for Your Life, Health, and Well Being

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Tuesday, July 23, 2019

Breath is life. Life is breath. The yoga sages of India have embraced this link for centuries, where conscious breathing has long been an integral part of daily life. More recently, Western researchers have also begun to acknowledge...

Beyond Retirement: What About Your Other Goals?

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Thursday, July 18, 2019

Let's say that at the age of 25, you earned $35,000. If your salary increased at the average historical rate, you'd have earned nearly $2 million in total by the time you were 65.1,2 That might sound like a lot -- until you begin...

The Dow’s Hot July

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Wednesday, July 17, 2019

Blue chip stocks have been on a tear this month. The Dow Jones Industrial Average (Dow) has risen 2.8% in July, the best performer of the four benchmark stock indexes we track. As shown in the LPL Chart of the Day, The Dow’s Hot...

Insuring Your Vacation Home

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Thursday, July 11, 2019

Vacation homes require a special type of insurance--one that protects your vacation home but doesn't overlap with your already existing homeowners insurance coverage. Here are some things to consider when insuring your vacation home....

Let’s Talk About Pullbacks And Corrections

Mark Stahlmann Muschick, CPA, CFP®

Wednesday, July 10, 2019

Let’s get one thing straight: Market pullbacks, corrections, and bear markets happen. Last year was a perfect example of this: The S&P 500 Index endured five separate 5% pullbacks throughout the year, and a nearly 20% bear market...