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Monday, March 20, 2023

We believe tactical investors should be maintaining their multi-asset allocations at or near benchmark levels with an emphasis on diversification. We continue to monitor bank industry and macro conditions and will communicate any changes...

Monday, March 13, 2023

This commentary is focused on our asset allocation views, but no doubt the Silicon Valley Bank saga will require more attention from investors in the days ahead.

Monday, March 13, 2023

Financial markets were shaken last week as Silicon Valley Bank (SVB), the California bank subsidiary of SVB Financial Group (SIVB), fell into FDIC receivership. Read more here.

Monday, March 6, 2023

Suggesting an economy makes “no landing” makes no sense. Central bankers are looking for ways to get the economy “hitting its stride” with a consistent, sustainable growth path and stable prices.

Thursday, March 2, 2023

March is Women’s History Month, a month-long celebration of female empowerment. This effort includes advocating for better representation in the workforce, pay parity and improved work-life balance.

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Thursday, March 2, 2023

Planning on working during retirement? If so, you're not alone. An increasing number of employees nearing retirement plan to work at least some period of time during their retirement years.

Thursday, March 2, 2023

In the U.S., men are investing and accumulating wealth at a greater pace than women, fueling the gender investing gap. Closing the investing gap is essential so that women accumulate enough retirement assets for their entire lives.

Thursday, March 2, 2023

Credit is a crucial component of your financial health and wellbeing. To know what you need to do to get your credit where it needs to be, you need to understand what your credit situation is likely to be at your specific stage in life.

Thursday, March 2, 2023

Elinor Ostrom is known for being the first woman to ever receive a Nobel Prize in economics. In her book Governing the Commons, she demonstrated that groups can effectively manage natural resources without resorting to outside control.

Wednesday, March 1, 2023

Financial markets have experienced quite a bit of change this year in just two short months. We remain confident that a new bull market will come—it just may require a bit more of our patience before we get there.

Monday, February 27, 2023

Markets, businesses, and the economy are likely to see only minimal impact from the debt ceiling debate until we are days, or maybe a few weeks, from the “x date,” which will likely be in the summer or early fall. Read more here.

Tuesday, February 21, 2023

Here we take a look at some of the biggest changes in the market environment so far in 2023 and what those changes could mean for investors over the balance of the year.

Monday, February 13, 2023

Recent economic and market data have reignited conversations about a potential soft landing. The U.S. economy is in a position to potentially muddle through.

Monday, February 6, 2023

Investors got more excited about international investing late last year. The surprising resilience of core European economies and a weaker U.S. dollar added to the market’s excitement.

Friday, February 3, 2023

When we look back on 2022, it’s easy to identify the challenges—but if we look closer, we can also uncover some opportunities. Overall, we see reason for renewed optimism when it comes to the markets in 2023.

Wednesday, February 1, 2023

By adjusting your approach to time management and reviewing your priorities, you can break the cycle of stress and start to feel more confident and in control of your life.

Wednesday, February 1, 2023

A dog’s paws can get just as rough and cracked as our own feet, but there’s no reason it has to stay that way. Use this paw balm to help your pet’s paws fight this irritation!

Wednesday, February 1, 2023

When you are busy running a company, it may be difficult to think about your taxes. Proactive tax planning helps you to avoid an unexpected tax liability when you file. Take a look at these helpful strategies.

Wednesday, February 1, 2023

Today, like so many other women, you may be facing a new challenge while you’re still working full time. Your children are growing up just as your parents are slowing down and need assistance with daily activities

Wednesday, February 1, 2023

Sitting down to figure out your budget can be a daunting task, especially if you don’t know where to start or what you’re specifically budgeting for. The following tips offer simple ideas to help you get your finances on track.

Monday, January 30, 2023

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...

Tuesday, January 24, 2023

The latest episode of the debate between stock market bulls and bears has gotten more interesting. For every valid point from one side, there’s an equally compelling argument on the other side. Perhaps the best reason for the...

Tuesday, January 17, 2023

Fourth quarter earnings season is underway and probably won’t bring much good news. Lackluster global growth, ongoing profit margin pressures from inflation, and negative currency impacts are likely to translate into a...

Monday, January 9, 2023

We believe accountability and modesty are among the keys to success in this business. In striving for those qualities, LPL Research has a tradition of starting off a new year with a lessons learned commentary. We got some things wrong...

Wednesday, January 4, 2023

2022 was a dizzying year as markets and the global economy continued to find itself out of balance due to the still present aftereffects of the COVID-19 pandemic and the policy response to it. If 2022 was about recognizing imbalances...

Wednesday, January 4, 2023

We wish you a happy New Year and hope you were able to close out 2022 with friends and family. The beginning of a calendar year is often the time when the previous year’s reflections transition to a new year’s hopes....

Monday, January 2, 2023

What if you focused on your system instead of just your goals? Setting goals for a new year can feel overwhelming.  We all know that resolutions don’t last, but we also feel the energy that comes with a new year of...

Monday, January 2, 2023

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...

Monday, January 2, 2023

Whether you're hoping to retire soon or are just beginning to explore the idea of stepping back from your job, you're probably wondering how to make it happen. Will you have enough money? How will you spend your time? What will you do...

Monday, January 2, 2023

Most people know that regular exercise is important for good health, but what you may not realize is that exercise is just as important for your pet. The Association of Pet Obesity Prevention estimates that 59.5 percent of...

Monday, January 2, 2023

The loss of a spouse can be a devastating, life-changing event. Due to longer life expectancies, women are more likely to face this situation. Becoming a widow at any age can be one of the most difficult challenges a woman must face. Not...

Monday, December 19, 2022

The Federal Reserve (Fed) wrapped up its last Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) meeting of the year last week, where it hiked short-term interest rates for the seventh time in as many meetings, taking the fed funds rate to 4.5%...

Monday, December 12, 2022

Despite the S&P 500 Index starting December with five consecutive days of losses, we think December is down but not out. December often starts slow but historically has been a strong month. There are also some potentially supportive...

Tuesday, December 6, 2022

Economic and corporate data support the initial strong reads on holiday retail sales despite the macro headwinds, reinforcing the idea that today’s consumer is in a better position than usual at this point in the business cycle....

Tuesday, December 6, 2022

Through all the challenges, newfound opportunities, and every high and low we’ve experienced during the last couple of years, it’s no surprise why we might be striving for more balance. Whether it’s about the markets...

Thursday, December 1, 2022

The holiday season is a time to give back to the local community and help those who may not have the means to provide a holiday sit-down dinner for their family. Figuring out what to donate to local food banks may seem self-explanatory...

Thursday, December 1, 2022

Here are some things to consider as you weigh potential tax moves between now and the end of the year. 1. Defer income to next year. Consider opportunities to defer income to 2023, particularly if you think you may be in a lower tax...

Thursday, December 1, 2022

Finding the perfect gift for those on your list can be difficult, but you can make your holiday shopping easier by gifting subscription boxes. These packages of hand-selected goodies can be arranged and mailed for you, and if you...

Thursday, December 1, 2022

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? Are you looking for ways to...

Monday, November 21, 2022

With Thanksgiving upon us, I want to take a moment to express our immense gratitude to you as a client.  Hopefully this message finds you and your loved ones happy, healthy, and enjoying all the festivities that make the...

Monday, November 21, 2022

Recent inflation data has tempered expectations for future Federal Reserve tightening, including a potential peak in the terminal rate near 5.0% in May or June of 2023. While the market has welcomed this news, history suggests the path...

Tuesday, November 15, 2022

The growth vs. value debate has been pretty one-sided in 2022, with value outperforming growth for a sustained period for the first time in almost 15 years. However, the debate is heating up as investors begin to consider whether the...

Monday, November 14, 2022

Don’t settle for an ordinary cake roll this holiday season. This pecan roll is made with a delicious spice cake and is full of sweet caramel cream, for a festive dessert you can bring to any celebration! Ingredients: For the...

Monday, November 14, 2022

Yes, there are good things about being old, such as increased happiness, less stress, better marriages and deeper friendships. You seldom hear that: People tend to focus on the negatives of aging.

Monday, November 14, 2022

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...

Monday, November 14, 2022

Black Friday and Cyber Monday are two of the greatest days to score deals for holiday shopping. Unfortunately, with amazing deals plentiful, some scammers use these days to take advantage of shoppers looking for the greatest bargains...

Monday, November 14, 2022

American Express created Small Business Saturday in 2010 to provide small businesses with a holiday season boost on the heels of Black Friday. The day comes after one of the biggest shopping sales events and serves as a reminder to spend...

Monday, November 14, 2022

The window of opportunity for many tax-saving moves closes on December 31, so it's important to evaluate your tax situation now, while there's still time to affect your bottom line for the 2022 tax year. Consider any opportunities...

Tuesday, November 8, 2022

Are you a good pet owner? Owning an animal means more than feeding it and loving it. Pets aren’t cheap, so doing right by Fido or Tabby involves financial planning.No question, we Americans love our pets. Many of us view our...

Wednesday, November 2, 2022

Midterm elections are upon us, with Election Day on Tuesday. Republicans are strongly favored to win the House, and the Senate is roughly a tossup. We believe either outcome would be market-friendly, although the bigger market driver...

Wednesday, November 2, 2022

October is now behind us and it has delivered on its track record as a historically favorable month for stocks, offering some respite for investors as major equity indices rose for the month. The downside pressure on equities...

Monday, October 31, 2022

With a series of important economic indicators suggesting the economy is declining and inflation is finally decelerating, albeit very slowly, markets are beginning to factor in that the Fed may soon transition to a less aggressive...

Tuesday, October 25, 2022

If the U.S. economy enters a recession, the causes and potential outcome will be hotly debated. At LPL Research, our starting point is always looking at history. This week’s commentary will remind us of three things we know about...

Tuesday, October 18, 2022

What constitutes a gift to charity? A gift to charity is simply a gratuitous transfer of property to a charitable organization. The key is that your gift must be some kind of property--your time or personal services do not count. There...

Tuesday, October 18, 2022

As cloud storage becomes more common, data security is an increasing concern. Companies and schools have been increasing their use of services like Google Drive for some time, and lots of individual users also store files on Dropbox...

Tuesday, October 18, 2022

The cost of long-term care can vary widely based on location (both city and state) and level of care needed. However, one thing is for certain: with 7 in every 10 people requiring long-term care at some point, preparing for this...

Tuesday, October 18, 2022

Those turning 65 this year have a 7 in 10 chance of needing long-term care (LTC) at some point.1 With the cost of a private room in a nursing home now topping $100,000 per year, the thought of paying this — or for a loved...

Tuesday, October 18, 2022

You are not alone if you do not have access to a 401(k) retirement plan. Pew Research data reveals that 35% of private-sector employees do not work for an employer that offers a plan.1 Fortunately, other retirement savings options are...

Monday, October 17, 2022

Expectations are very low for this earnings season. The challenges are many, with intense cost pressures and slowing economic growth at the top of the list. The chorus of analysts and strategists calling for big cuts to estimates has...

Monday, October 17, 2022

Small businesses face many problems related to their size, capital, and capability, and for women-owned small businesses, the challenge is sometimes even greater. The good news is there are many professional organizations out there...

Monday, October 17, 2022

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. Medicare...

Monday, October 10, 2022

As Federal Reserve (Fed) officials continue to emphasize the Fed’s commitment towards restoring price stability, the dollar marches ever higher. Markets are currently pricing in another 75-basis point rate hike at the November 2...

Thursday, October 6, 2022

First, we want to acknowledge the tremendous damage and displacement caused by Hurricane Ian. Our thoughts are with those impacted by this devastating storm. This has clearly been a challenging year for households. Stocks and bond are...

Monday, October 3, 2022

On October 16, China will begin its 20th National Congress of the Chinese Communist Party in Beijing. This plenum is especially significant because it is expected that President Xi Jinping will be granted an unprecedented third term...

Thursday, September 29, 2022

In the last several weeks, we have continued to face elevated uncertainty in financial markets due to high inflation and rising interest rates, and we thought it was an important time to take stock with the final quarter of 2022...

Monday, September 26, 2022

Now that interest rates have moved substantially higher, we believe opportunities in fixed income have improved and are looking to add back to certain areas within fixed income that may benefit. Because the equity risk within...

Monday, September 19, 2022

Inflationary dynamics continue to surprise to the upside, and markets now expect the Fed to pursue one of its most aggressive rate hiking campaign in years. U.S. Treasury yields continue to move higher as well. We think we’ve...

Wednesday, September 14, 2022

Do you wish that there was more time in a day? Do you want to have time to drink a cup of coffee in the morning, or get to the gym before or after work? Well, we can’t change how much time there is each day, but we can help you...

Tuesday, September 13, 2022

Federal Reserve Chairman Jay Powell reiterated his warning that getting inflation under control will require some pain. Powell is likely making these warnings based on the arcane, clunky relationship between inflation and unemployment....

Tuesday, September 13, 2022

Today, like so many other women, you may be facing a new challenge while you’re still working full time. Your children are growing up just as your parents are slowing down and need assistance with daily activities. Although years...

Tuesday, September 13, 2022

For many, autumn is the best time of year. The return of cool breezes, comforting foods, and pumpkins can be invigorating. It’s also a bookmark of sorts, especially for your finances—a perfect time to take stock of your...

Wednesday, September 7, 2022

When it comes to stock market performance, August was “the best of times, and the worst of times.” The strong market rally that peaked in mid-August was viewed by many analysts as a transition from a bear to bull...

Monday, August 29, 2022

There’s certainly a reason why trips to the beach are one of the most desired summer vacations. From basking in the sun to indulging in delicious boardwalk treats, a beach trip is sure to create unforgettable memories with both...

Thursday, August 25, 2022

It's important to have a clear understanding of your overall financial position.As a woman, you have financial needs that are unique to your situation in life. Perhaps you would like to buy your first home. Maybe you need to start...

Monday, August 15, 2022

The latest weekly data from the American Association of Individual Investors (AAII) showed a continued increase in the percentage of individual investors who are bullish about short-term market expectations (32.2%), and a continued...

Saturday, August 13, 2022

Financial stress can have a direct negative impact on a person's health and happiness. Unfortunately, this may lead to a downward spiral. The more stress you're feeling, the larger your financial hurdles may seem, and the more you...

Thursday, August 11, 2022

Historically, working mothers have had even higher ambitions in the workforce than working women in general.1 This ambition may drive them to excel in budgeting and financial matters that can help them manage their family's finances....

Monday, August 8, 2022

The most watched, and arguably the most exciting, soccer league in the world kicked off this weekend across the pond: the English Premier League (EPL). It’s set to be an enthralling season for the many EPL fans around the world...

Monday, August 8, 2022

Hi All,Last week was epic for market-watchers. A Federal Reserve (Fed) rate hike, a much-anticipated gross domestic product (GDP) report, and the busiest week of earnings season got most of the headlines. There was even a surprise out...

Sunday, August 7, 2022

The history of US currency is a complex one, but also interesting. You pay using coins and cash nearly every day, but do you really know the intricacies behind the design of a dollar or nickel?The first paper currency used in the...

Monday, August 1, 2022

Index PerformanceView enlarged chart.U.S. and International EquitiesU.S. Markets Finish HigherThe major U.S. market indexes finished higher this week as growth and value names witnessed solid gains. The latest batch of second quarter...

Wednesday, July 27, 2022

You might already bring your own shopping bags to the grocery store and put out a recycling bin of aluminum cans for curbside pickup, but do you take the same eco-friendly approach with your pet?According to a survey from the...

Monday, July 25, 2022

From Heavy Highway Congestion to Eerily Empty RoadwaysNot to play up too much on the data from the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) but the NAHB gives insights on the traffic of prospective buyers, a leading indicator of...

Thursday, July 21, 2022

Social isolation makes people more susceptible to illness and death.1 While retirement is a time for relaxation and enjoyment from a lifetime of work, it may lead to a lack of purpose if you have depended on work for...

Monday, July 18, 2022

Supply-Driven Contributions to InflationYou have heard it here many times that the current inflationary environment has been irritated by supply-related problems with ports, international manufacturing shutdowns, and global shipping as...

Monday, July 11, 2022

Index PerformanceView enlarged chart.U.S. and International Equities LowerThe major market indexes finished the month in the red as sticky inflation conditions weighed on last month’s market returns as the Federal Reserve (Fed)...

Monday, July 11, 2022

Markets rarely give us clear skies, and there are always threats to watch for on the horizon, but the right preparation, context, and support can help us navigate anything that may lie ahead. So far, this year hasn’t seen a...

Wednesday, July 6, 2022

Hi All,As the calendar has turned to July, investors would certainly like to forget the first six months of 2022. However, the Fourth of July Independence Day holiday does bring with it reason for celebration. Not only is it the 246th...

Tuesday, July 5, 2022

The U.S. Treasury market is arguably the most important market in the world. Not only does the market provide the financing of the federal government, it also provides a safe and liquid asset to support the flow of capital and credit...

Monday, June 27, 2022

Few life changes are of more consequence than a divorce. In addition to the financial and emotional difficulties, you'll face special concerns about your insurance coverage. Planning for these changes should begin long before the...

Monday, June 27, 2022

With the S&P 500 moving into a bear market and the first half of the year since shaping up as one of the worst ever, many investors are wondering if we have yet seen the bear market low. We first asked, “Was that the...

Thursday, June 23, 2022

A regular program of disciplined financial practices can help you in the long-run Many people realize that the best way to stay in shape is to develop an appropriate fitness regimen and then stick with it. If you start a fitness...

Tuesday, June 21, 2022

Undoubtedly the most important story of the past week is the historic move in interest rates. While this is a trend that has been firmly in place for months, it has accelerated even more following last Friday’s higher than...

Thursday, June 16, 2022

Major strides in LGBTQ+ equality have happened over the last decade. Most notably was the Supreme Court's 2015 decision to recognize same-sex marriage in Obergefell v. Hodge. Even so, members of the LGBTQ+ community tend to experience...

Tuesday, June 14, 2022

Hi All,A bear market is officially here thanks largely to stubbornly high inflation. For many of us, it has probably felt like a bear market for a while now, but the S&P 500 Index didn’t close more than 20% below its January 3...

Monday, June 13, 2022

Headline Inflation Jumps, Core Inflation CoolsHeadline inflation in May rose 8.6% from a year ago, accelerating from April’s 8.3% growth rate. The Consumer Price Index (CPI) rose to the highest year-over-year increase since...

Monday, June 6, 2022

If you have always thought estate planning was just for those nearing retirement or already retired, think again. If you own a home, it is important to have a plan in place. Without a will or other arrangements that allow your home to...

Monday, June 6, 2022

Labor Markets Are Tight With Little Signs of LooseningEmployment in May grew by 390,000, driven by strong gains in leisure and hospitality, professional and business services, and transportation and warehousing. Job growth does not...

Wednesday, June 1, 2022

The bull market that began in March of 2020 came dangerously close to an end. From March 23, 2020 through January 3, 2022, the S&P 500 Index gained 114% (excluding dividends). From that January 3 closing high through the recent low on...

Tuesday, May 31, 2022

After a late month rally, we can say goodbye to the month of May, which now opens the door to June. Here’s the bad news, June is historically a weak month and it is actually the worst month of the year during a midterm year, down...

Thursday, May 26, 2022

Monday, May 23, 2022

Wednesday, May 18, 2022

Monday, May 16, 2022

Thursday, May 12, 2022

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Thursday, December 2, 2021

Hi All, We hope everyone enjoyed the Thanksgiving holiday with family and friends. While life has been challenging during the pandemic, we have a lot to be thankful for. At this time, we are especially grateful for COVID-19 vaccines...

Monday, November 29, 2021

The big news this week was Jerome Powell will remain in charge of the Federal Reserve (Fed) for four more years, so we wanted to do a quick blog that looked at how stocks have done while he has been the Fed Chairman. “There are...

Tuesday, November 23, 2021

The S&P 500 Information Technology Sector has gained 27% in the past six months, outperforming the broader S&P 500 by more than 10%. But could its run of leadership just be getting started? As shown in the LPL Chart of the Day, the...

Tuesday, November 23, 2021

What typical investors need to know We all read and hear about various special deals, “doorbusters,” price cuts, and early opening hours on Black Friday. We also read and hear about the Cyber Monday deals. These sales days...

Friday, November 19, 2021

The public school system is a vital component of the American education system. We celebrate the country's teachers and staff and the education system as a whole during the week of November 16th through the 20th this year. These are...

Tuesday, November 16, 2021

As we reach the home stretch of 2021, there is a lot to be thankful for. Stocks are having an amazing year, the economy is improving, and COVID-19 trends are going the right direction. Let’s look at some reasons to be thankful....

Thursday, November 11, 2021

Today, many people find themselves bombarded by a constant stream of financial news from television, radio, and the Internet. Yet, does all this “information age” data really help you manage your finances any better now...

Monday, November 8, 2021

I cannot believe it is that time of year again. Here I am looking back over this past year and starting to plan for 2022. Hopefully this finds you all well, safe, and looking forward to the Holiday Season. As Thanksgiving approaches,...

Monday, November 8, 2021

The October payroll report more than delivered on expectations for a bounce back from the soft September report. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics released its October employment report this morning, revealing that the domestic...

Thursday, November 4, 2021

Hi All, The past year and a half have tested all of us, but overall, the economy continues to strengthen, COVID-19 trends are greatly improving, and this still relatively young bull market is alive and well. As the leaves turn colors...

Monday, November 1, 2021

Index Performance View enlarged chart. U.S. and International Equities Stocks erased September losses with solid gains in October for the broad market averages. The S&P 500 returned almost 7% for the month, while the Dow Industrials...

Tuesday, October 26, 2021

Small businesses face many problems related to their size, capital, and capability, and for women-owned small businesses, the challenge is sometimes even greater. The good news is there are many professional organizations out there...

Monday, October 25, 2021

On Thursday, October 21, the Conference Board released its September 2021 report detailing the latest reading for the Leading Economic Index (LEI), a composite of ten data series that tend to lead changes in economic activity. Many...

Thursday, October 21, 2021

As more and more women assume leadership roles in businesses, it is changing the attitude and sometimes even the future of the workplace. Female bosses may teach business leaders a lot about engaging with employees, promoting their...

Tuesday, October 19, 2021

The U.S. Census Bureau reported overall retail sales grew 0.7% month over month in September vs. forecasts for a 0.2% decline, while retail sales excluding autos and gas also saw solid gains, rising 0.7% month over month vs. estimates...

Friday, October 15, 2021

If your medical records are scattered across a mishmash of different providers, cities, or even states, you may have trouble creating a comprehensive medical history when you need one. What steps can you take now to organize your...

Monday, October 11, 2021

We have used most of the superlatives we know to describe corporate America’s stunning performances over the past two earnings seasons. Despite lofty expectations, results exceeded estimates by huge margins. We expect solid...

Thursday, October 7, 2021

Hi All, One constant in life is change. During the past year and a half, we have experienced more change than any of us bargained for. Change is disruptive—but also brings opportunities. For investors right now, there is no...

Monday, October 4, 2021

Index Performance View enlarged chart. U.S. and International Equities September has been the worst performing month over the past 10 and 20 years. Looking at the prior year, the S&P 500 pulled back over 9% from September 2nd to...

Monday, September 27, 2021

On Thursday, September 23, the Conference Board released its August 2021 report detailing the latest reading for the Leading Economic Index (LEI), a composite of ten data series that tend to lead changes in economic activity. Many...

Monday, September 20, 2021

Until recently, we expected the 10-year Treasury yield to end the year between 1.75% and 2.0%. Now, however, there are two key elements suggesting we are unlikely to see significantly higher interest rates by year end: The Delta...

Monday, September 13, 2021

According to LPL Research’s analysis of the Federal Reserve’s (Fed) recently released Beige Book, business sentiment on Main Street has declined in recent months as the economy navigates the latest wave of COVID-19, but...

Tuesday, September 7, 2021

The Covid-19 pandemic was an unprecedented shock to a large majority of global economies. But the economic damage was met with an extraordinary global monetary response with the Federal Reserve (Fed), European Central Bank (ECB), the...

Thursday, September 2, 2021

A Primer Although we all know that “time flies,” it seems to move particularly fast as we watch our children grow. Yet, in considering a college future for a newborn, it is understandable that parents might procrastinate,...

Thursday, September 2, 2021

September 22nd is American Business Women's Day, and it may be the perfect day to celebrate women who have surpassed the glass ceiling and gone on to be leaders and inspirations for businesswomen everywhere. In honor of American...

Thursday, September 2, 2021

Nine of every 10 U.S. families with children have at least one working parent.1 Though working parents make up one of the largest demographic groups in the country, they face many challenges—from the cost of childcare to...

Thursday, September 2, 2021

Tax planning can be more advantageous when done during the year and well in advance of year’s end.Opportunities may exist for you to minimize tax liability, which could leave more income for you and/or your family. Generally,...

Thursday, September 2, 2021

Hi All, The bull market continues, with the S&P 500 Index now up seven months in a row. Stocks have impressively gained 20% year-to-date, with the S&P 500 making 53 new all-time highs before the end of August—another new record....

Tuesday, August 31, 2021

How is the recent increase in COVID-19 cases in the United States linked to the spread of the Delta variant affecting the U.S. consumer’s behavior? We look at some consumer confidence focused high-frequency data for clues on how...

Tuesday, August 24, 2021

Since 1978, the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City has played host to central bankers, policymakers, academics and economists from around the world at its annual economic policy symposium in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, which is slated to...

Tuesday, August 24, 2021

Your financial professional can help ensure you leave your estate in the best possible way Families inherit money and sometimes make the right moves investing and spending. Inheritances can also ignite disruption, divorce and a host of...

Wednesday, August 18, 2021

As mentioned in the most recent Muni Market Monitor, high yield muni funds have accumulated $24 million of net inflows year to date, representing ~20% of total inflows to the total municipal category. With the prospects of higher...

Tuesday, August 17, 2021

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...

Friday, August 13, 2021

Trying to stay healthy while traveling can be difficult to manage, especially when you don’t know where to start, and especially when you’re flying. Keep your mind and body in check with these traveling essentials....

Wednesday, August 11, 2021

The Chairperson of the Federal Reserve (Fed) is appointed by the President of the United States and serves a four-year term. The current Chairperson, Jerome Powell, has held that position since 2018 so his initial term is ending early...

Thursday, August 5, 2021

Hi All, Six months and counting. That is the current monthly winning streak for the S&P 500 Index. To take that a step further, this key equity benchmark has posted gains in 13 of the last 16 months—dating back to the March 2020...

Wednesday, August 4, 2021

Index Performance View enlarged chart. U.S. and international equities In July, the U.S. major market indexes finished higher while international equities, as represented by the developed international markets (MSCI EAFE), and the...

Friday, July 30, 2021

For many people, turning 65 provides one of the keys to retirement: access to affordable healthcare. Whether you're enrolling in the Medicare program for the first time or have been a Medicare enrollee for years, it's important to stay...

Wednesday, July 28, 2021

The Federal Reserve (Fed) meets this week to discuss its ongoing support for the U.S. economy. During its regularly scheduled two-day meeting, the nineteen-member committee is expected to discuss if and when the Fed should start to...

Thursday, July 22, 2021

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...

Wednesday, July 21, 2021

Top Story Earnings season off to a great start Beat rates have been outstanding so far with 85% and 90% of S&P 500 companies beating earnings and revenue targets. Second quarter earnings growth is tracking to a nearly 70%...

Wednesday, July 14, 2021

LPL Research is proud to announce the release of Midyear Outlook 2021: Picking Up Speed. While the speed can be exhilarating as economic growth accelerates, it can also be dangerous. Our updated outlook is designed to help you navigate...

Tuesday, July 13, 2021

LPL Research Midyear Outlook 2021: Picking Up Speed is designed to help you navigate the risks and opportunities over the rest of 2021 and beyond. While the speed can be exhilarating as economic growth accelerates, it can also be...

Tuesday, July 13, 2021

We all know men and women are different in some fundamental ways. But is this true when it comes to financial planning? In a word, yes. Everyone wants financial security. But women often face unique obstacles that can affect their...

Thursday, July 8, 2021

Hi All, In the first half of 2021, the U.S. economy powered forward faster than nearly anyone had expected. Speed can be exhilarating, but it can also be dangerous. In our view, the overall economic picture remains sound and will...

Tuesday, July 6, 2021

Top Story Streaking. Stocks have been extremely strong recently. Here are some eye-opening stats. The S&P 500 Index is up seven days in a row for the first time since August 2020. It hasn’t been up eight in a row since April 2019...

Tuesday, July 6, 2021

Members of the "Sandwich Generation"—or adults who have at least one parent over age 65 and at least one child who still requires financial support—often find themselves torn between their dual caregiving responsibilities.1...

Wednesday, June 30, 2021

While most of the focus lately has been on the volatility in the Treasury markets, the corporate credit markets continue to tell an encouraging story about the economic recovery. The traditional U.S. corporate credit bond market...

Tuesday, June 22, 2021

The “dot plots” are slowly becoming the new phrase of the year after the July 16 Federal Reserve (Fed) meeting. As a reminder, the dot plots represent the expected path of short-term interest rates by Fed members. Each dot...

Tuesday, June 22, 2021

If 2020 made you fantasize about a trip as soon as travel restrictions were lifted—and you’re still waiting—you aren’t alone. Although 2021 was poised to be a comeback year, it is shaping up to be another summer...

Tuesday, June 22, 2021

Summertime is great for walking and playing in the sunshine with your pet. Unfortunately, pets have a harder time keeping cool when the temperatures soar. Here are some tips to keep your pet safe, healthy, and happy under the fun sun....

Tuesday, June 22, 2021

The 4th of July is one of the most exciting holidays of the year, with picnics, fireworks, and plenty of delicious food. Though this beloved occasion is a blast for Americans, our pets might not find the loud noises associated with the...

Tuesday, June 15, 2021

As investors we fight against behavioral biases in every investment decision we make. Our Director of Research Marc Zabicki talked recently about some of these biases in this video. We become attached to our ideas and when we think...

Wednesday, June 9, 2021

While many of the taxable markets have generated negative returns this year, both the high quality and high yield municipal markets have generated positive returns (no guarantees that will continue, of course). State and local...

Tuesday, June 8, 2021

Women can experience more challenges saving for retirement than men, and unfortunately, COVID-19 has added even more challenges. According to Transamerica Center for Retirement Studies report Women and Retirement: Risks and Realities...

Tuesday, June 8, 2021

For many Americans, the home is the single biggest purchase made during their lifetime.[1] As a result, it's important to do everything possible to keep it in good condition. Even moderate or short-term neglect can be dangerous, as...

Tuesday, June 8, 2021

Retirement isn’t easy for most couples, and it’s even harder for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people. A modest amount of planning can go a long way to providing the financial support you need. Many LGBTQ seniors...

Thursday, June 3, 2021

Hi All, As we move into June, a path to normalcy is coming quickly with stadiums allowing full capacity, restaurants filling up, and summer vacations in full swing. Meanwhile, the U.S. economy continues to recover remarkably quickly...

Wednesday, June 2, 2021

Index Performance View enlarged chart. U.S. and international equities The month of May proved to be mixed for the U.S. major market indexes. Last month’s top performer, the Nasdaq composite, was May’s laggard....

Wednesday, May 26, 2021

Market Blog Tuesday, May 25, 2021 Mortgage rates are still around all-time lows but they may be headed higher. The 30-year national average mortgage rate hit an all-time low of 2.82% back in February, but with the U.S. economic...

Wednesday, May 26, 2021

Even with all of your savvy college shopping and research about financial aid, college costs may still be prohibitive. At these prices, you expect you'll need to make substantial financial sacrifices to send your child to college. Or...

Thursday, May 20, 2021

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...

Wednesday, May 19, 2021

Tuesday, May 18, 2021 After the April consumer price index (CPI) release that surprised to the upside, indicating consumer prices in some areas of the economy are increasing at a faster pace than many expected, the discussion has...

Wednesday, May 12, 2021

Inflation is one of the primary risks to bondholders. Rising consumer prices erodes the “real” value of principal and interest payments making them worth less. However, the Federal Reserve’s (Fed) reaction to...

Tuesday, May 11, 2021

At some point in a child's development, all parents wonder: how can I best teach my child the value of money? Parents who grew up in more modest circumstances than their own children can struggle to balance the desire to provide their...

Thursday, May 6, 2021

Hi All, As the calendar has turned to May, the popular “Sell in May and Go Away” stock market cliché is getting a lot of airtime. This is the idea that the stock market tends to be weakest between May and October...

Wednesday, May 5, 2021

Index Performance View enlarged chart. U.S. and International Equities This month provided another set of positive results for the U.S. major market indexes. The top performer was the Nasdaq, rebounding from last month’s lagging...

Wednesday, April 28, 2021

Losing one's significant other is one of the most stressful of all possible losses, even if you've had some time to emotionally prepare for it. And while it can be tough to do more than put one foot in front of the other, losing a...

Wednesday, April 28, 2021

End of recession call may come soon Incredibly, the COVID-19 recession may have ended a year ago, but we still don’t have an end-of-recession call from the National Bureau of Economic Research (NBER). But we may be a step closer...

Tuesday, April 20, 2021

“Price is what you pay; value is what you get.” – Legendary value investor Ben Graham. Valuations matter—at least in the long run. We believe it to be true in the equity markets and in the fixed income markets...

Wednesday, April 14, 2021

Index Performance View enlarged chart. U.S. and International Equities This quarter provided positive results for all major market indexes. The top performer and standout was the US small cap Russell 2000, returning over 12% for the...

Tuesday, April 13, 2021

Divorce can deal both divorcing spouses one of the biggest financial blows of their lifetimes. In fact, experts estimate each spouse will need to increase their individual income by about 30 percent to maintain the same standard of...

Tuesday, April 6, 2021

Coming into this year, we expected longer-maturity U.S. Treasury yields to rise, consistent with improving economic growth dynamics. That is indeed what we have seen, with the yield on the 10-year Treasury higher by 80 basis points (0...

Monday, April 5, 2021

You exercise to benefit from your sweat equity in the future, right? Waking up early in the dark mornings of winter to exercise comes hard. Once your workout ends, though, you often begin the day with the payoff of a tremendous energy...

Thursday, April 1, 2021

“The real key to making money in stocks is not to get scared out of them.” Peter LynchThey say April showers bring May flowers. Well, after a lot of showers and storms over the past year, flowers are starting to bloom and things are...

Wednesday, March 31, 2021

As we continue LPL Research’s Inflation Week, today we will examine how stocks have historically done at different inflation levels. For more color on our views on inflation, please read here and here, and look out for...

Wednesday, March 24, 2021

While most market participants have been (rightly) focusing on the sell-off in the Treasury markets this year, U.S. corporate credit markets have sold off as well. Corporate credit markets, as defined by the Bloomberg Barclays U.S....

Monday, March 22, 2021

Despite all of the other advances made in our society in recent generations, women continue to face unique challenges when it comes to preparing for their financial futures. Recognizing the Shortfalls For starters, women on average...

Tuesday, March 16, 2021

Women play a central role in establishing and preserving family wealth -- whether nurturing the values of children, fulfilling charitable goals, or making investment decisions that affect the financial security of themselves or their...

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...

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...

Monday, March 8, 2021

While millennial women are breaking cultural norms and diving into entrepreneurship headfirst, baby boomers are often more reluctant to take the risks of their younger colleagues. In fact, on a whole, women invest 40 percent less[1]...

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...

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...

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...

Tuesday, February 23, 2021

Despite all of the other advances made in our society in recent generations, women continue to face unique challenges when it comes to preparing for their financial futures. Recognizing the Shortfalls For starters, women on average...

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...

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...

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...

Monday, February 8, 2021

Men and women may not be on equal footing when it comes to investing for the future. On average, women work fewer years and earn less than men, but they also tend to live longer.1 Therefore, women must focus on the concerns that are...

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...

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...

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...

Tuesday, January 26, 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,...

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...

Tuesday, January 19, 2021

Financial wellness, like physical wellness, isn’t something you should ignore. Instead, it's a critical concept for anyone who wants to be knowledgeable and confident about their finances, and in fact, financial wellness is so...

Wednesday, January 13, 2021

Economic Blog 1/12/2021 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...

Monday, January 11, 2021

A key goal of investing for retirement is making sure you save enough to make your money last throughout your lifetime. On this score, women may need to save more than men. The current life expectancy of a female at birth is roughly 81...

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...

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...

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...

Tuesday, December 22, 2020

Brexit, the United Kingdom’s (UK) withdrawal from the European Union (EU), is making news again as it stumbles toward its apparent conclusion on December 31, 2020. The major sticking point now: fish. The UK officially left the EU...

Friday, December 18, 2020

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...

Thursday, December 17, 2020

As the holidays approach, many children start to make wish lists, but unfortunately, not all children have someone to give them gifts. Luckily, there are many charities that help get holiday gifts and joy to children. If you're...