Pandemic Distortions

Pandemic Distortions

Weekly Market Commentary The economic distortions tied to that pandemic and the government’s massive response to prop up the economy have been far-reaching. Before continuing, let’s look at some facts and definitions. Consumer spending accounts for 70% of the total...
The No-Landing Scenario

The No-Landing Scenario

Weekly Market Commentary Last year, the economy appeared to be headed toward one of two scenarios. There was a narrow path to what is called a ‘soft landing.’ A soft landing is a slowdown in economic growth that leads to a slowdown in inflation. It’s accomplished...
The Long and Winding Road to Lower Inflation

The Long and Winding Road to Lower Inflation

Weekly Market Commentary The Fed’s road to 2% annual inflation took a curious turn last week, disappointing some investors that had been expecting continued progress on inflation. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that the January Consumer Price Index...
Housing Thaw

Housing Thaw

Weekly Market Commentary Rising interest rates are the result of the Federal Reserve’s campaign to snuff out inflation. The pain of rising rates has been felt in the financial sector. It has also been felt in housing. Housing sales tumbled since the beginning of 2022,...
The Two Faces of Powell

The Two Faces of Powell

Weekly Market Commentary Last year, the Federal Reserve and Fed Chief Powell’s bite were probably worse than the bark. Rhetoric and commentary were forceful and were matched by a nearly unprecedented series of rate hikes, including four-straight 75 basis point (bp, 1...
10 Important Changes to Retirement Planning

10 Important Changes to Retirement Planning

Weekly Market Commentary At the end of last year, Congress passed the SECURE Act 2.0, a follow-up to an overhaul of retirement laws passed just three years ago. The changes make it easier to save for retirement and may stretch out your savings while in retirement....