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Tuesday, May 12, 2026

As college tuition continues to climb, 529 Plans can offer a strategic solution for parents and grandparents aiming to support the educational aspirations of their children and grandchildren. Moreover, these plans may serve as valuable...

Monday, May 11, 2026

LPL Research explores how a potential Warsh-led Fed could reshape policy, Treasury markets, and volatility amid rising deficits and shifting demand. The Post-Powell Transition: As Jerome Powell’s tenure as Federal Reserve (Fed) chair...

Wednesday, May 6, 2026

Some of you may be surprised by the stock market’s recent strength, particularly with oil prices over $100 a barrel. To me, the amount of artificial intelligence (AI) investment is even more surprising. But that’s not all there is to...

Tuesday, May 5, 2026

Asset management and financial wellness can help develop long-term confidence when wealth transfers from generation to generation. Understanding and implementing financial wellness techniques is essential for effectively sharing wealth...

Monday, May 4, 2026

In investing, the goal is to find assets that appreciate. That can be accomplished in different ways. One way is to find businesses that aren’t growing very fast but can be purchased at a low enough valuation that the investment can...

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Monday, April 27, 2026

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...

Tuesday, April 21, 2026

In investing and wealth management, concentrated wealth refers to having significant exposure to a single asset or a few assets. There is a risk when an investor's portfolio is insufficiently diversified, tying an oversized portion of...

Monday, April 20, 2026

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...

Tuesday, April 14, 2026

Financial literacy is essential for everyone but can be crucial for wealthy individuals who may have more wealth to lose than others. Navigating the complex financial landscape is no small task, and having the foundation of financial...

Monday, April 13, 2026

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...

Wednesday, April 8, 2026

Social Security (SS) retirement benefits are a vital component of retirement income for many people. It consists of multiple benefits, including disability, survivor, and retirement benefits, and is an indispensable part of many...

Monday, April 6, 2026

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...

Wednesday, April 1, 2026

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...

Tuesday, March 31, 2026

Even before your children can count, they already know something about money: it's what you have to give the ice cream man to get a cone, or put in the slot to ride the rocket ship at the grocery store. So, as soon as your children...

Monday, March 30, 2026

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...

Tuesday, March 24, 2026

As we approach tax day, you may be expecting to receive a tax refund. While you may have a temptation to spend your tax return, other options may be more beneficial to your financial situation. Your tax refund is for overpayment of...

Monday, March 23, 2026

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...

Tuesday, March 17, 2026

Once you are in your 60s, you are likely to focus less on growing your retirement funds than answering, "When do I retire?" And once you crack open your nest egg, how should you allocate its contents? The answer often lies in a...

Monday, March 16, 2026

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...

Tuesday, March 10, 2026

Knowing how to take the deductions you are entitled to may help your bottom line if you are a business owner. You may use various deductions this tax season 2025 to manage your taxable income and hopefully keep more of your hard-earned...

Monday, March 9, 2026

It’s difficult to separate the human and emotional side of war from the economic and market impacts. Without minimizing the human element, we focus on markets here. From that perspective, the energy market is the primary way through which t

Wednesday, March 4, 2026

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...

Tuesday, March 3, 2026

If you are a young professional, you probably make decent money but not enough to live solely off passive income or create generational wealth. Being a young professional may come with specific financial issues. A high income could...

Monday, March 2, 2026

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...

Tuesday, February 24, 2026

Inheriting generational wealth comes with many emotions, from sadness to confusion to perhaps even joy or relief. An inheritance can take various forms, such as cash, properties, stocks, bonds, property, or other assets. The person...

Monday, February 23, 2026

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...

Tuesday, February 17, 2026

Tax planning is an essential aspect of financial management, especially for individuals who have accumulated substantial wealth over their lifetime. Wealthy retirees, in particular, need to pay special attention to their tax planning...

Tuesday, February 17, 2026

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)...

Tuesday, February 10, 2026

Wealth transfer is more than just a financial transaction; it's an opportunity for families to pass on their values, wisdom, and a legacy of love. Navigating this process requires careful consideration, open communication, and a shared...

Monday, February 9, 2026

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....

Thursday, February 5, 2026

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...

Tuesday, February 3, 2026

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,...

Monday, February 2, 2026

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...

Monday, January 26, 2026

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...

Tuesday, January 20, 2026

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...

Tuesday, January 20, 2026

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...

Tuesday, January 13, 2026

At what age should you start discussing inheritance with your children? Estate planning and inheritance, while complex topics, should be an ongoing discussion with your family. Even in their late teens, twenties, and thirties, children...

Monday, January 12, 2026

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...

Thursday, January 8, 2026

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 — notably tariffs. Tariffs...

Tuesday, January 6, 2026

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....

Monday, January 5, 2026

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...

Monday, December 22, 2025

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...

Tuesday, December 16, 2025

LPL Research is pleased to present Outlook 2026: The Policy Engine. This annual update offers a thorough analysis of the economy and markets, highlighting potential implications for you. The year 2025 offered a clear illustration of...

Monday, December 15, 2025

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...

Wednesday, December 3, 2025

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 –...

Monday, December 1, 2025

The dawn of a new year brings with it myriad opportunities for sports and entertainment industry professionals to reassess their financial strategies. Regardless of whether they are actors, actresses, professional golfers, baseball...

Monday, December 1, 2025

In times of economic uncertainty, it’s easy to let financial stress overshadow everything else. And sadly, the holiday season isn't exempt from this. But here’s a little insight you might overlook: Holiday cheer might be a rewarding...

Monday, December 1, 2025

Every year, the holiday season inspires a beautiful wave of generosity. Donations surge. Volunteer sign-ups spike. People go out of their way to support those in need or brighten someone’s day. But what if that spirit of giving didn’t...

Monday, December 1, 2025

Estate planning is also significantly relevant for single individuals without children. It is a protective measure that ensures assets are distributed according to one's wishes and helps minimize legal disputes among family members....

Monday, December 1, 2025

In our Weekly Market Commentary on November 17, we previewed our Outlook 2026 publication, due out on December 9. We highlighted several keys for markets next year, covering the U.S. economy, stocks, and bonds. This week, we broaden...

Monday, November 24, 2025

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...

Monday, November 24, 2025

Market uncertainty occurs when investors find it challenging to analyze current and future market conditions due to market volatility. Various factors, such as inflation, central bank policy changes, interest rate fluctuation, investor...

Monday, November 17, 2025

In a year that could easily be defined by a few different words — including but not limited to tariffs, technology, or more broadly, uncertainty — capital markets have plugged along splendidly. Despite a near-bear market correction in...

Monday, November 17, 2025

In the fast-paced world of sports and entertainment, individuals working in these industries generate substantial wealth. Often, they seek ways to utilize it positively, giving back while receiving tax benefits in return. There are...

Monday, November 10, 2025

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...

Monday, November 10, 2025

As the leaves begin to fall and the year winds down, autumn offers more than pumpkin spice and cozy sweaters. It’s also a good time to clean up your finances. Just like spring cleaning helps freshen your home, fall financial cleaning...

Wednesday, November 5, 2025

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: Corporate America...

Monday, November 3, 2025

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....

Monday, November 3, 2025

As we age, planning for the future becomes increasingly important. This is especially true when it comes to long-term care. For married couples, this planning is not just about individual needs but is also about ensuring that both...

Tuesday, October 28, 2025

Navigating the probate process is a legal, mental, and emotional process. The combination of grief, legal terminology, and a potentially lengthy process can be overwhelming. However, it is possible to weather this challenging time with...

Monday, October 27, 2025

Scare #1: Late Cycle Economy Even though we do not have all the official government data on the labor market, it’s no surprise that the U.S. labor market appears to be approaching stall speed. What’s concerning is the potential that...

Tuesday, October 21, 2025

When the economy slows down, everyday life starts to feel more expensive and a little more uncertain. Groceries may cost more. Job security feels shakier. Interest rates could climb. And suddenly, the financial cushion you once had...

Tuesday, October 21, 2025

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...

Tuesday, October 14, 2025

Many children will receive an inheritance after their parents pass on. In some cases, this may include significant assets. If you currently are or may become one of those individuals, it is critical to figure out how you plan to manage...

Monday, October 13, 2025

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...

Monday, October 6, 2025

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)...

Monday, October 6, 2025

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 economy or the stock...

Tuesday, September 30, 2025

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...

Monday, September 29, 2025

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...

Monday, September 22, 2025

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...

Monday, September 15, 2025

You probably already know that insurance is something you should have in case of unforeseen events. When it comes to estate planning, insurance helps manage the distribution of your assets the way you see fit. It may also help prevent...

Monday, September 15, 2025

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...

Monday, September 8, 2025

You have probably heard about financial planning and its potential benefits, but you are unsure how to apply the principles to your life. A financial plan is a collection of steps that help you to evaluate your financial condition and...

Monday, September 8, 2025

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. We would not be surprised if volatility were to pick up...

Wednesday, September 3, 2025

As summer winds down, the financial world remains focused primarily on the Federal Reserve (Fed). At last month’s Jackson Hole Economic Symposium, Fed Chair Jerome Powell signaled the Fed seems ready to cut interest rates later this...

Tuesday, September 2, 2025

The winning streak for stocks continued in August, as the S&P 500 posted its fourth consecutive month of gains. It was an informative month for investors, as we learned that the labor market may not be as solid as expected, tariffs...

Monday, September 1, 2025

There are several ways high-net-worth individuals can benefit from life insurance. It is a vehicle that could provide loved ones with an income stream, it can be used as an investment strategy, it may help to lower your estate tax...

Tuesday, August 26, 2025

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 marked by...

Monday, August 25, 2025

Tariffs—taxes imposed on imported goods—have become an essential factor for investors to consider. They are typically used to protect domestic industries from foreign competition by increasing the costs of imported goods. However,...

Monday, August 18, 2025

Approximately 70 million workers contribute to a 401(k)-retirement plan. A 401(k) is a tax-advantaged retirement savings plan companies offer employees and is funded through elective salary deferrals. There are several benefits to...

Monday, August 18, 2025

Second quarter earnings season, which winds down this week and next, has met some of the highest expectations. Strong beat rates, big upside earnings surprises, and increases in estimates during the past four weeks were consistent...

Monday, August 11, 2025

If you’re looking for a simple way to grow your savings faster, without taking on much risk, a high-yield savings account (HYSA) is something worth considering. These accounts may earn more interest than typical savings accounts. This...

Monday, August 11, 2025

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. Whatever policy we highlight, it’s clear...

Thursday, August 7, 2025

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: Slowing U.S. economy....

Monday, August 4, 2025

Both trading and investing involve purchasing financial assets for the purpose of growing the value of those investments and either earning a profit through a sale, the accumulation of interest, or dividends paid out (and reinvested in...

Monday, August 4, 2025

Last week was one for the ages in terms of the number and magnitude of events and data points for investors to digest. A Federal Reserve (Fed) meeting, the monthly jobs report, and the peak week of earnings season would be enough to...

Monday, July 28, 2025

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. One factor adding to the complexity is the...

Tuesday, July 22, 2025

When was the last time you took steps to optimize your 401k? If it has been a while, you are not alone. Research indicates that only one in three Americans utilize employer-sponsored 401k retirement accounts; even those contributing...

Monday, July 21, 2025

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. The benevolent Dr. Jekyll emerges when economic data suggests weakness, which leads to lower interest

Wednesday, July 16, 2025

As Americans enjoy their grills and beach chairs this summer, despite recent volatility the stock market and the weather across much of the country have both been on heaters. Stocks and bonds continue to navigate a complex policy...

Tuesday, July 15, 2025

Accredited investors are individuals characterized by their high net worth or substantial income. Being an accredited investor provides special access to various investment opportunities otherwise inaccessible to the general public....

Monday, July 14, 2025

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 the...

Thursday, July 10, 2025

We started 2025 on a high note, although we acknowledged that “no market environment is ever permanent, and that change is always potentially around the corner.” Well change did come, and with it, volatility, perhaps in part because we...

Tuesday, July 8, 2025

In today's economic environment, where market volatility and inflation are often unpredictable and inevitable, investing can sometimes feel like a rollercoaster. However, investing during these periods doesn't have to be a...

Tuesday, July 1, 2025

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

Monday, June 30, 2025

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, diversification into...

Monday, June 23, 2025

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...

Monday, June 23, 2025

Chinese equities have been a major focus for investors in recent months, with catalysts ranging from DeepSeek’s artificial intelligence (AI) advancements to tariffs and trade negotiations. However, the performance of Chinese equities...

Monday, June 16, 2025

Starting a business may seem scary, but it’s also a great way to turn something you love into a successful career. If you’ve ever thought about being your own boss, here are some top reasons why today might be the perfect day to begin....

Monday, June 16, 2025

Inflation’s effects on the economy, monetary policy, and the financial markets are wide-ranging. Higher inflation can constrain economic growth, tighten financial conditions, drive interest rates higher and even restrain stock...

Monday, June 9, 2025

Those who receive an inheritance with the passing of a loved one are potentially given the gift of financial freedom if they choose to manage the wealth carefully. Did you know that only about one-third of adults have a prepared will,...

Monday, June 9, 2025

There have been plenty of catalysts supporting the broader market’s recovery from the correction lows set last month. Oversold conditions fueled by indiscriminate selling left the S&P 500 with washed-out market breadth and a hard...

Wednesday, June 4, 2025

As June begins, so does warmer weather and summer travel. Markets continue to navigate a complex landscape shaped by trade policy shifts, an uncertain economic and earnings outlook, and bond market headwinds. Several key developments...

Monday, June 2, 2025

Addressing wealth management comprehensively in today's market environment is essential for individuals and business entities. Given the dynamic nature of global markets and the ever-changing economic landscape, navigating investment...

Monday, June 2, 2025

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. Stocks fell sharply and interest rates spiked on that news, prompting President...

Tuesday, May 27, 2025

As an employer, offering competitive and appealing benefits is essential to attracting and retaining top talent. One such benefit is a 529 Plan within the company's comprehensive benefits package. Named for Section 529 of the Internal...

Tuesday, May 27, 2025

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. It wasn’t corporate America’s fault — tariff uncertainty makes it very difficult for most companies...

Tuesday, May 20, 2025

After spending so much of your life saving for retirement, it may be challenging to transition from depositing funds to withdrawing them. You may wonder whether there is any way to maintain your lifestyle and preserve your wealth to...

Monday, May 19, 2025

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

Monday, May 12, 2025

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 as risk appetite from positive trade headlines faded by...

Friday, May 9, 2025

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 — especially if trade deals and tariff reductions don’t...

Tuesday, May 6, 2025

529 plans are designed for saving for education and are beneficial since contributions accumulate and grow tax-free as long as withdrawals are used for qualified education expenses. But 529 plans may also be part of a wealth transfer...

Monday, May 5, 2025

The municipal bond market faced significant volatility in April, driven by spillovers from a turbulent Treasury market. Treasury yields were pressured higher by rising inflation expectations; the Federal Reserve’s cautious policy...

Tuesday, April 29, 2025

Baby Boomers — those born between 1946 and 1964 — hold about $20 trillion in wealth.1 Over the next few decades, many Boomers may transfer this wealth to their Gen X, millennial, and Gen Z children, perhaps incurring a hefty tax bill....

Monday, April 28, 2025

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. The...

Tuesday, April 22, 2025

April is Stress Awareness Month, and there's no better time to reflect on and address the stressors that may impact our lives. Financial stress is an interesting challenge for high-net-worth individuals and families since most...

Monday, April 21, 2025

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. Treasury yields declined significantly across the curve, including 0.15–0.20% drops in...

Wednesday, April 16, 2025

The journey to prosperity involves more than just a high income. It requires strategic planning, wise investment decisions, and a keen understanding of your financial landscape. On Financial Professional Day, explore how working with a...

Monday, April 14, 2025

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?...

Monday, April 7, 2025

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. China quickly retaliated, Europe may...

Tuesday, April 1, 2025

Understanding the anticipated changes in tax laws and regulations in 2025 will become increasingly crucial. One area that requires attention is the estate tax sunset at the end of 2025. The estate tax, also known as the inheritance,...

Monday, March 31, 2025

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)...

Monday, March 24, 2025

Suppose an emergency strikes and your family needs to quickly access important financial and personal information. Now, ask yourself—are these documents organized, secure, and easily accessible? Having a system for storing your crucial...

Monday, March 24, 2025

Trade uncertainty and nagging inflation made Federal Reserve (Fed) Chair Jerome Powell walk a tightrope at the latest press conference. The Chairman of the Fed’s monetary policy-setting committee stressed the uncertainty about...

Monday, March 17, 2025

Many of us imagine a future shared with family or a significant other. But for a growing number of people, aging alone is a reality. If you don’t have immediate family or a partner, estate planning may feel overwhelming. You might...

Monday, March 17, 2025

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. The 10%...

Wednesday, March 12, 2025

Market volatility has arrived in force. The slowdown in the economy and more policy-driven volatility was the consensus expectation coming into 2025. What was not expected, however, was how much the Trump administration would lean into tari

Monday, March 10, 2025

What is it? Married filing separately is an option available to all married individuals when choosing a filing status for their federal income tax returns. Your filing status is important because it determines, in part, the amount of...

Monday, March 10, 2025

Heightened volatility and uncertainty in both financial markets and the broader economy present challenges and opportunities for investors. Understanding the fundamental differences between the strategic and tactical investment...

Thursday, March 6, 2025

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 resilient consumer spending, the...

Monday, March 3, 2025

What is it? You subtract certain deductions from your adjusted gross income (AGI) to determine your taxable income. You can subtract either the standard deduction or itemized deductions. The standard deduction is a fixed dollar amount...

Monday, March 3, 2025

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, with mega cap technology and financial companies doing most of the...

Monday, February 24, 2025

The world of personal taxation and tax deductions can often be puzzling. While these elements aid in reducing one's tax burden, they may also come with unexpected limitations. These limitations can take taxpayers by surprise, reducing...

Monday, February 24, 2025

The U.S. Treasury market is entering a significant transition period in 2025, facing both structural adjustments and all-too-familiar policy discussions. As the Federal Reserve's (Fed) shift from a zero interest-rate policy (ZIRP)...

Tuesday, February 18, 2025

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. President Trump reinstated a full 25% tariff on all steel imports — effectively...

Monday, February 17, 2025

A crucial aspect of planning involves understanding how much money you should aim to have in your 401(k) now, based on your age, as you save for retirement. Knowing this amount and devising a plan to work toward this balance goal is...

Monday, February 10, 2025

You may not have to spend much money to celebrate Valentine's Day. Instead, you may show your special someone that you love them with sweet gifts that might be easier on the wallet. Want to spread the love without overspending? Then...

Monday, February 10, 2025

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...

Thursday, February 6, 2025

The new month brings two major market-moving stories to digest. First is the advances in artificial intelligence (AI) by Chinese startup DeepSeek. It has caused some investors to question America’s lead in the AI race and American...

Monday, February 3, 2025

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

Sunday, February 2, 2025

Required minimum distributions, often called RMDs, are IRS-mandated account withdrawals that the retirement account owner must take. These distributions must begin when the account owner reaches a certain age. Understanding RMD...

Tuesday, January 28, 2025

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). Does that mean...

Tuesday, January 21, 2025

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....

Monday, January 20, 2025

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...

Monday, January 13, 2025

A critical aspect of retirement planning is understanding the rules and requirements surrounding Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) from retirement savings accounts. An RMD is a mandatory minimum amount that retirement account...

Monday, January 13, 2025

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. Momentum in equity markets has...

Monday, January 6, 2025

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. The good news is we got more right than wrong last year, but...

Wednesday, January 1, 2025

Proactive tax planning is crucial for high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs). Their financial situation may be incredibly complex, necessitating sophisticated tax strategies as they work toward specific tax planning outcomes. Here are...

Wednesday, December 18, 2024

LPL Research recently unveiled Outlook 2025: Pragmatic Optimism. The annual update offers a comprehensive analysis of the economic and market environment. I’m excited to bring to you a few of the key takeaways today. Looking back on...

Monday, December 16, 2024

What would you do with an extra $10,000? Maybe you'd pay off some debt, get rid of some college loans, or take a much-needed vacation. What if you suddenly had an extra million or 10 million or more? Now that you've come into a...

Monday, December 16, 2024

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...

Monday, December 9, 2024

A donor-advised fund (DAF) is a charitable giving vehicle administered by a public charity created to manage charitable donations on behalf of organizations, families, or individuals. The benefits of DAFs extend beyond their primary...

Monday, December 9, 2024

Call us pragmatic optimists after such a strong 2024 — we detect a path to a really good year for stocks in 2025, but several factors temper our enthusiasm, including stretched sentiment and the potential that inflation re-accelerates. Furt

Sunday, December 1, 2024

The holiday season is a time of joy and headaches, celebration, fatigue, and togetherness mixed with a few knock-down drag-out fights. On top of the emotional rollercoaster ride can come a big wallop of financial stress. From buying...

Tuesday, November 19, 2024

There are often red flags you may notice that indicate your parents have reached a point where they need help with their finances. At first, your parents might be resistant to this, believing they can still manage their financial lives...

Tuesday, November 12, 2024

During this time in your life, you’re likely busy establishing yourself in your job or career, building new relationships, enjoying activities with friends and family, and generally figuring out how to navigate through new challenges...

Tuesday, November 5, 2024

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...

Tuesday, October 22, 2024

Just what you need, right? One more time-consuming task to be taken care of between now and the end of the year. But taking a little time out from the holiday chores to make some strategic saving and investing decisions before December...

Tuesday, October 15, 2024

Through their philanthropic activities, high-net-worth (HNW) individuals play a significant role in our continuously evolving global society. Giving back to society is no longer just a moral responsibility for many of them; it is also...

Tuesday, October 8, 2024

There are often red flags you may notice that indicate your parents have reached a point where they need help with their finances. At first, your parents might be resistant to this, believing they can still manage their financial lives...

Wednesday, October 2, 2024

For the first time in more than four years, on September 18, the Federal Reserve (Fed) cut interest rates. While the debate over how big the cut would be was settled (a half point, not a quarter), questions about where the Fed will go...

Tuesday, October 1, 2024

Election years are a time of uncertainty and excitement for many people. There may be concerns with social and public policy, and the implications of legislature on the market and personal finances. Historically, elections haven’t had...

Monday, September 30, 2024

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....

Monday, September 23, 2024

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. The Fed “pause” ended at 423...

Sunday, September 22, 2024

The IRS recently released the 2025 contribution limits for health savings accounts (HSAs), as well as the 2025 minimum deductible and maximum out-of-pocket amounts for high-deductible health plans (HDHPs). What is an HSA? An HSA is a...

Monday, September 16, 2024

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 (along with potential efforts to arrest elevated...

Sunday, September 15, 2024

Until recently, college student-athletes were considered amateurs and prohibited from receiving monetary compensation. However, the NCAA has introduced Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) rules that now allow student-athletes to be...

Monday, September 9, 2024

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. Companies beat estimates at a solid 79% clip. Guidance from...

Sunday, September 8, 2024

The more assets you have at stake, the bigger the target on your back for cybercrime. This means that managing your financial wealth needs to go beyond traditional security measures. You also need a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy...

Thursday, September 5, 2024

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. When the economy and markets are tested, the foundation for...

Tuesday, September 3, 2024

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. At the core of Putin’s goals for stronger BRICS economic...

Sunday, September 1, 2024

Market uncertainty occurs when investors find it challenging to analyze current and future market conditions due to market volatility. Various factors, such as inflation, central bank policy changes, interest rate fluctuation, investor...

Monday, August 26, 2024

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.” A soft landing looks...

Monday, August 19, 2024

Every year as the summer months draw near their end, LPL Financial hosts its annual conference for financial advisors. While the conference is an excellent opportunity for advisors to expand upon professional interests, discover ways...

Monday, August 12, 2024

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. As I carried a Tonka truck...

Tuesday, August 6, 2024

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. The primary catalyst was August...

Monday, August 5, 2024

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. The broad stock market...

Friday, August 2, 2024

Many parents want to provide their children with the best possible help and care, even when they transition into college. However, as the children come of age, there is much more to consider than tuition fees and dorm essentials....

Thursday, August 1, 2024

Indispensable skills that significantly impact business viability and success For young professionals contemplating business ownership, the journey towards entrepreneurship is often seen as a rewarding but daunting path. The latest...

Wednesday, July 31, 2024

As one embarks on their journey toward a high-net-worth status, it's crucial to understand that strategic planning and intelligent decision-making are essential for wealth generation and preservation. One of the most powerful tools at...

Monday, July 29, 2024

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...

Monday, July 29, 2024

Planning and budgeting tips to maximize your summer travel experiences. Vacation travelers, get ready for some exciting news! If you're planning a trip abroad, this year might be one of the best times to do so. The U.S. dollar is...

Monday, July 22, 2024

The #1 goal of adaptive planning is to deliver superior outcomes Uncertainty is an inherent part of the financial sector, and nowhere is this more evident than in finance management and analysis. The reality is that perfect financial...

Monday, July 22, 2024

The first half of the year was a challenging environment for a lot of fixed income markets, especially higher-quality markets. With the Federal Reserve (Fed) seemingly unlikely to lower interest rates until after the summer months (at...

Monday, July 15, 2024

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 seeking...

Tuesday, July 9, 2024

LPL Research recently unveiled Midyear Outlook 2024: Still Waiting for the Turn, the semi-annual report that recaps where markets and the economy have been over the first half of 2024. I am excited to bring you a few of the key...

Monday, July 8, 2024

The sandwich generation is generally defined as middle-aged individuals aged 40 to 60 (Generation X) sandwiched between aging parents, adult children, and grandchildren. Because members of the sandwich generation have been in the...

Monday, July 1, 2024

“A penny saved is a penny earned.” This nugget of financial wisdom from Benjamin Franklin, shared in the late 1700s, remains as relevant today as it was then. Despite living in a different era, our founding fathers were remarkably...

Monday, July 1, 2024

With stock valuations elevated after such a strong first half, earnings growth will be key to holding, or potentially building on these gains. LPL Research believes stocks have gotten a bit over their skis, but earnings season may not...

Tuesday, June 25, 2024

"The four most dangerous words in investing are: 'this time is different.'" — Sir John Templeton Are We in a Bubble? While some are drawing parallels between the current period and the late-1990s tech bubble and concluding that a...

Monday, June 24, 2024

By focusing on goals and priorities, you can create a new, simplified lifestyle As retirement approaches, many older adults consider downsizing their home as a way to simplify their lives, reduce expenses, and focus on what truly...

Monday, June 17, 2024

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...

Monday, June 17, 2024

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. And while the Fed...

Monday, June 10, 2024

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. Always Spend Less Than You Make...

Monday, June 10, 2024

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. Modi...

Monday, June 3, 2024

In tax lingo, your principal residence is the place where you legally reside. It's typically the place where you spend most of your time, but several other factors are also relevant in determining your principal residence. Many of the...

Monday, June 3, 2024

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, elevated volatility across fixed income and...

Tuesday, May 28, 2024

529 plans are a tool for those looking to save for college for their children, grandchildren, or any family member. While most people know that they are one of the most popular saving methods for college, many myths surrounding these...

Tuesday, May 28, 2024

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

Tuesday, May 21, 2024

As a small-business owner, you may be looking for the next big thing—an investment that might double your profits within the next year or allow you to maintain your income while working just a few hours a week. However, business...

Monday, May 20, 2024

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...

Tuesday, May 14, 2024

What will you look for as you approach your "golden" years? Sunshine and the beach at your feet, or colder climates with your favorite cross-country skiing course outside your door? An affordable condo on the golf course with room for...

Monday, May 13, 2024

It continues to be a challenging environment for a lot of fixed income markets, especially higher quality markets. With the Federal Reserve (Fed) seemingly unlikely to lower interest rates until after the summer months (at the...

Tuesday, May 7, 2024

Even if you are already retired, it doesn't mean you should stop trying to grow your savings. Inflation, unexpected medical bills, and changes to your lifestyle or family may result in the need for additional income than you initially...

Monday, May 6, 2024

“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. However, this phrase may be more rhyme than reason, as stocks...

Tuesday, April 30, 2024

Mom-and-pop shops have always been the cornerstone of our economic communities, especially the smaller ones. These entities consist of smaller, commonly family-owned-and-operated businesses focusing on a more personalized approach to...

Monday, April 22, 2024

Financial literacy is crucial, not only for adults but for everyone in the family. When you have a good foundation of financial literacy, you will have a greater understanding of money and prepare yourself for a brighter financial...

Monday, April 15, 2024

Is 62 your lucky number? If you're eligible, that's the earliest age you can start receiving Social Security retirement benefits. Although collecting early retirement benefits makes sense for some people, there's a major drawback to...

Monday, April 15, 2024

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 as recent data releases for both the...

Tuesday, April 9, 2024

The first quarter is in the books, and it was an excellent one for stocks. 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...

Monday, April 8, 2024

If you're nearing retirement age, you know the Social Security process and how much you will likely receive. With that information, you may have also anticipated that your Social Security benefit would not be enough to sustain you in...

Monday, April 8, 2024

First quarter earnings season kicks off this week with several big banks reporting this Friday, including sector bellwether JPMorgan Chase (JPM). This quarter will seem quite similar to the fourth in terms of growth and drivers, with...

Monday, April 1, 2024

The initial public offering (IPO) market allows institutional investors to incorporate the macroeconomic landscape with individual corporate earnings data — and future earnings forecasts — to ascertain a share price that will hold up...

Monday, March 25, 2024

Retirement planning stands as one of the most critical financial endeavors, particularly for executives whose roles entail significant responsibility and compensation. In this pursuit, Deferred Compensation emerges as a powerful tool...

Monday, March 25, 2024

Financial literacy is crucial to a solid financial future and an enjoyable retirement. No matter your age, when you understand how to manage your money and finances, you can make sound financial decisions and take the needed steps...

Monday, March 25, 2024

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, focusing on long-term goals and...

Monday, March 18, 2024

In the world of investing, the eternal debate between growth and value continues to captivate the minds of investors. As we navigate through 2024, the question looms large: Will growth once again reign supreme over value, especially in...

Monday, March 18, 2024

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)...

Monday, March 11, 2024

Regardless of the stage of life, your credit score is an essential component of your financial health when you're in retirement. A consistently strong credit score can pave the way for greater confidence, easy loan access, and lower...

Monday, March 11, 2024

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...

Monday, March 4, 2024

Managing living expenses is a crucial skill, especially for single women and single-income earners. High Earners Not Rich Yet (HENRYs) face challenges when balancing the desire for financial growth with the practicalities of day-to-day...

Monday, March 4, 2024

Fourth quarter earnings season is winding down with only about a dozen companies in the S&P 500 left to report. After a slow start mired by messy bank results early on, corporate America picked up the pace and ended up delivering...

Monday, February 26, 2024

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...

Tuesday, February 20, 2024

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...

Tuesday, February 20, 2024

Planning for retirement often involves focusing on your finances and ensuring that you not only will have enough to sustain you during your retirement but adequate funds to do the things you enjoy doing. While this strategy is a...

Tuesday, February 13, 2024

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...

Tuesday, February 13, 2024

An increasing number of full-time workers seek to increase their income through working a side hustle, which is employment in addition to a full-time job. In this article, we'll delve into the benefits of this trend, essential tips for...

Monday, February 5, 2024

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...

Tuesday, January 30, 2024

Tips to navigate financial uncertainty for a more secure and restful future In an era of unprecedented change and economic volatility, the sleepless nights associated with financial concerns are becoming all too familiar. Despite an...

Monday, January 29, 2024

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...

Tuesday, January 23, 2024

When you think of identity theft, you may think of unauthorized credit card payments or new lines of credit. However, tax identity theft is one of the most common types of identity theft — and it’s also the most common...

Monday, January 22, 2024

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...

Tuesday, January 16, 2024

For high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs), implementing healthy financial behaviors is crucial to maintaining their assets and growing wealth. Regardless of having significant financial means, embracing healthy financial behaviors must...

Tuesday, January 16, 2024

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...

Friday, January 12, 2024

With Tax Season around the corner, have you ever wondered where your tax dollars go? Check out the 2024 Tax Planning Guide to learn more about how the government allocates your tax dollars, how tax filing may look different this year...

Monday, January 8, 2024

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...

Friday, January 5, 2024

Getting close to retirement is exciting, but it often brings a little worry about your financial future. The closer you get, the more you may be concerned with the rising living costs and if your finances are on track to allow you to...

Tuesday, January 2, 2024

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...

Tuesday, December 19, 2023

Your financial professional can help leverage these changes to impact your tax liabilities It is crucial for individuals to engage in strategic tax planning with their financial professionals, particularly considering the changes to...

Tuesday, December 19, 2023

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. But what happens once you’ve...

Monday, December 18, 2023

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...

Tuesday, December 12, 2023

The landscape of retirement finance is often complex, and the latest revisions to the rules governing Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) underscore this point. With the introduction of the Secure 2.0 Act, investors must adapt to new...

Monday, December 11, 2023

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...

Tuesday, December 5, 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, December 4, 2023

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...

Monday, November 20, 2023

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...

Monday, November 13, 2023

As we approach the last quarter of each year, it is a good time to plan for the next one. Year-end planning is especially important for existing retirees and those hoping to retire in the next few years. There are tax and income...

Monday, November 13, 2023

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...

Monday, November 6, 2023

A donor-advised fund (DAF) is a charitable giving vehicle administered by a public charity created to manage charitable donations on behalf of organizations, families, or individuals. The benefits of DAFs extend beyond their primary...

Monday, November 6, 2023

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...

Wednesday, November 1, 2023

A trust is a legal vehicle that protects your assets that contains instructions for your assets when you die or become incapacitated. When you set up a trust, you transfer assets from your name into your trust's name while you still...

Monday, October 30, 2023

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...

Monday, October 23, 2023

When it comes to investing in bonds, one of the first factors to consider is yield. But what exactly is "yield?" The answer depends on how the term is being used. In the broadest sense, an investment's yield is the return you get on...

Monday, October 23, 2023

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...

Monday, October 16, 2023

Signs are encouraging and the possibility seems more tangible than ever In the intricate world of economics, maneuvering the vast U.S. economy without causing disruptions is likened to steering a colossal ship through a tempestuous...

Monday, October 16, 2023

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...

Tuesday, October 10, 2023

Do not dismiss energy or food prices when assessing the impact of inflation On September 13, 2023, it was announced that August saw inflation record its biggest monthly increase for all of 2023 as energy prices rose significantly....

Monday, October 9, 2023

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,...

Wednesday, October 4, 2023

Make your annual review more efficient and productive to improve next year When you work with a financial professional, then you know how important the year-end review is to the financial planning process. And given that you should be...

Monday, October 2, 2023

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...

Monday, September 25, 2023

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. While you may have been diligent in securing your life...

Monday, September 18, 2023

Everyone has a choice to make when they wake up in the morning. Will today be a good day or a bad day? A “good day” all starts with positive thinking. A negative mindset translates into bad thoughts that will adversely...

Monday, September 18, 2023

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...

Monday, September 11, 2023

You want to retire comfortably when the time comes. You also want to help your child go to college. So how do you juggle the two? The truth is, saving for your retirement and your child's education at the same time can be a challenge....

Monday, September 11, 2023

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...

Tuesday, September 5, 2023

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...

Monday, September 4, 2023

Matching your tolerance for risk with your investment objectives Everyone wants a comfortable retirement, but the road you take there will depend on your specific situation. When you invest, you assume a certain level of risk (but like...

Monday, August 28, 2023

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...

Monday, August 21, 2023

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...

Monday, August 21, 2023

Volatility has returned right on queue as U.S. equity markets continue to pull back from overbought levels. The recent jump in interest rates has proven to be too much too fast for stocks to absorb, especially for the heavyweight and...

Monday, August 14, 2023

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...

Tuesday, August 8, 2023

Tech and AI are capturing all the hype, but look to fundamental indicators. In recent times, investor expectations have shown a concerning trend of becoming detached from the realities of the market. The focus on technology and...

Monday, August 7, 2023

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....

Tuesday, August 1, 2023

Why do so many people never obtain the financial independence that they desire? Often it's because they just don't take that first step — getting started. Besides procrastination, other excuses people make are that investing is...

Monday, July 31, 2023

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...

Tuesday, July 25, 2023

Relying extensively on social security may not meet your retirement needs. When it comes to planning for retirement, Social Security benefits have traditionally been viewed as a safety net for many individuals. However, in recent years,...

Monday, July 24, 2023

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...

Tuesday, July 18, 2023

Trends in debt, interest rates and consumer spending can impact sectors. As Americans grapple with the challenges of dwindling purchasing power, credit cards have become a popular way to bridge the financial gap. However, this has led to...

Monday, July 17, 2023

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...

Tuesday, July 11, 2023

While there is no one-size fits all, avoiding these mistakes is a good start. A lot of 401(k) investors end up making the same mistakes when choosing their investments. The results are low returns and unbalanced portfolios. Avoiding...

Tuesday, July 11, 2023

Now that we’re beyond the midpoint of the investing year, it’s a great time to look at where we’ve been—to help position your portfolio for the latter half of the year. Our Midyear Outlook: The Path Toward...

Tuesday, July 4, 2023

When investing in a mutual fund, you may have the opportunity to choose among several share classes, most commonly Class A, Class B, and Class C. This multi-class structure offers you the opportunity to select a share class that is...

Monday, July 3, 2023

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,...

Tuesday, June 27, 2023

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...

Tuesday, June 20, 2023

The importance of financial literacy for children cannot be overstated. One of the most effective ways to teach children about money management is by encouraging them to open a savings account. A savings account not only teaches...

Tuesday, June 20, 2023

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...

Tuesday, June 13, 2023

As retirement approaches, many older adults consider downsizing their home as a way to simplify their lives, reduce expenses, and focus on what truly matters.While the process can be emotionally and physically challenging, it can also...

Monday, June 12, 2023

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...

Monday, June 5, 2023

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...

Sunday, June 4, 2023

Whether you have been working in your current industry for only a short time or have been in the same field for decades, boosting your education is always an excellent idea. With constantly changing technology and new software coming...

Tuesday, May 30, 2023

If you're like a lot of homeowners, you probably spent a fair amount of time comparing lenders to get the best interest rate on your mortgage. But have you devoted as much time to your homeowners insurance? The cost of homeowners...

Tuesday, May 30, 2023

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...

Tuesday, May 23, 2023

According to the College Board, the most recently published figures of the average annual cost of tuition and fees at a public university for the 2021-2022 school year was $10,740 for in-state students and $27,560 for out-of-state...

Monday, May 22, 2023

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...

Tuesday, May 16, 2023

As a business owner, you may assume you do not need professional financial advice until you hit certain milestones such as $1 million in sales, having ten employees, or some other tangible measure. However, financial professionals may...

Monday, May 15, 2023

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...

Tuesday, May 9, 2023

Economists and pundits predicted that the baby boomer generation's retirement would be dramatic, and the COVID pandemic sped things along. According to the St. Louis Fed, the number of retirees in the U.S. increased by 7% between...

Monday, May 8, 2023

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...

Tuesday, May 2, 2023

Miyamoto Musashi is one of history’s greatest swordsman having never lost a duel. He was a philosopher, writer and strategist who wrote the Dokkodo, 21 principles for living a disciplined life of self-reliance. While...

Monday, May 1, 2023

“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...

Monday, April 24, 2023

The SECURE 2.0 legislation included in the $1.7 trillion appropriations bill passed late last year builds on changes established by the original Setting Every Community Up for Retirement Enhancement Act (SECURE 1.0) enacted in 2019....

Monday, April 24, 2023

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,...

Monday, April 17, 2023

As you age, the question of when to collect Social Security (SS) retirement benefits will likely come to mind. There is no one size fits all age; your unique circumstances and goals will dictate the appropriate time for you to take...

Monday, April 17, 2023

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...

Monday, April 10, 2023

When discussing multigenerational wealth it is common to come across proverbs that acknowledge the fact that generational wealth typically won’t make it past the third generation. In the United States the saying goes, “from...

Monday, April 10, 2023

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...

Monday, April 3, 2023

With so much going on in the world today—from a global pandemic through economic hardship—it comes as no surprise that many people have recently found themselves under heavy financial stress. Whether it is due to the loss...

Monday, April 3, 2023

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...

Monday, March 27, 2023

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...

Tuesday, March 21, 2023

Financial professionals need to address the special financial concerns of womenWomen’s History Month has its origins as a national celebration in 1981 when Congress passed and authorized a resolution and requested the President...

Monday, March 20, 2023

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...

Tuesday, March 14, 2023

The average college student graduates with around $30,000 in student loan debt. While this isn't an insurmountable amount of debt for a degree that may boost your earning potential, it also makes it important to maintain responsible...

Monday, March 13, 2023

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...

Tuesday, March 7, 2023

With April’s federal tax filing and payment deadline on the horizon, Americans are dotting their i’s and crossing their t’s as they prepare for the countdown to Tax Day. But before you rush to get that return out the...

Monday, March 6, 2023

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...

Tuesday, February 28, 2023

Monday, February 28th, kicks off America Saves Week this year. The week is dedicated to bringing awareness and encouraging people to look at and make progress on their savings. By taking a proactive stance, more people may realize how...

Monday, February 27, 2023

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...

Tuesday, February 21, 2023

The Gender Investing Gap: How Do We Bridge It? In the U.S., men are investing and accumulating wealth at a greater pace than women, fueling the gender investing gap.

Tuesday, February 21, 2023

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...

Tuesday, February 14, 2023

Strategic financial planning is important for everyone but especially for high-income earners that have their compensation tied directly to the success of the business.

Monday, February 13, 2023

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...

Tuesday, February 7, 2023

We all make mistakes, and through them, we learn. But when it comes to finances, it is best not to take the trial-and-error approach. Here are 5 financial mistakes to avoid as you plan for your financial future.

Monday, February 6, 2023

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...

Tuesday, January 31, 2023

Paying your bills on time and only using a portion of your available credit may help your credit score. However, these good habits are not the only factors shaping your credit score. Your credit mix also affects your score. The credit...

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...

Wednesday, January 25, 2023

A few things to consider before you allocate outside the United States Over the past several years, the performance of international markets have trailed the markets here in the United States. Will the trend continue in 2023?So...

Monday, January 23, 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...

Wednesday, January 18, 2023

Habits create a domino effect; once you begin a habit and stick with it, you can see the effects of it flowing into other areas of your life, for better or worse. But what if it’s easier than you think to make the healthy...

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...

Tuesday, January 10, 2023

What is investment tax planning for stocks?Investment tax planning for stocks takes advantage of the tax rules with the goal of achieving the best after-tax return on these investments. Strategies will differ depending on whether you...

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

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...

Tuesday, January 3, 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...

Tuesday, December 27, 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, 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%...

Tuesday, December 13, 2022

When you own a business, you get to deduct business expenses from your business income. This general rule applies, subject to certain limitations, whether you are a sole proprietor with employees or a self-employed freelancer...

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

The last few months of the year are all about eating, drinking, and being merry. But all this indulging often leads to feelings of guilt and a rush to get back on track come the new year.If most of your favorite traditions are...

Monday, December 5, 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, November 29, 2022

Just because markets are negative in 2022, you might still see a tax billWhen an investor sells a stock for more than the purchase price, the investor experiences a capital gain (some like to call it a profit, but let’s stick to...

Friday, November 25, 2022

Understanding long-term capital gains taxes when you sell investmentsMarket downturns could be a good time to adjust your fund portfolio to minimize the tax bite. Here’s how to calculate the best ways to do that – now and...

Tuesday, November 22, 2022

What would you do if you had unlimited funds to donate to charity? Would you focus on causes and organizations that make a difference locally or donate to international organizations? Are your donations providing immediate relief to...

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

More often than not, retirees have retirement concerns that focus on their goals and whether or not they have the finances to work toward those goals. Since finances and other important matters tend to occupy the mind during retirement...

Monday, November 14, 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...

Saturday, November 12, 2022

If you hope to retire soon and are concerned about what the future may hold for your investments, you are not alone. Inflation has many retirees and soon-to-be retirees worried about outliving their savings and investments.1 What...

Thursday, November 10, 2022

Identity theft hits your finances but also can affect your taxes too.Identity theft is one of the fastest growing crimes in the United States, with as many as 10% of Americans over age 16 becoming victims last year, according to a...

Monday, November 7, 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...

Monday, November 7, 2022

As we approach the end of the year, you may want to review areas that may impact your wealth and estate planning next year. In this year-end planning guide, we examine four critical areas to consider that may affect your finances:...

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

Identity theft is a growing concern that impacts millions of Americans every year. According to a recent study,1⁠1 more than 14 million Americans fell victim to online theft in 2018, with 23% of those incurring unreimbursed...

Monday, October 24, 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

Baby Boomers — those born between 1946 and 1964 — hold about $20 trillion in wealth.1 Over the next few decades, many Boomers may transfer this wealth to their Gen X, millennial, and Gen Z children, perhaps incurring a...

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...

Tuesday, October 11, 2022

There are many things you can do to keep your brain active: going outside more, listening to classical music, or learning a new skill. As you get older, it’s imperative to take care of your mental and physical health. Both...

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...

Wednesday, October 5, 2022

Whether you're still living at home, in school, or starting your career, your late teens and twenties present a prime opportunity to think about your financial future. Though you may not hit your peak earning years until your 40s or...

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,...

Tuesday, September 27, 2022

Charitable giving is an opportunity to use your wealth to benefit others while providing you with tax benefits. If you’re searching for a way to reduce your tax bill and give back to the community, a donor-advised fund (DAF) or a...

Monday, September 26, 2022

The LPL Research Strategic and Tactical Asset Allocation Committee is increasing its recommended interest rate exposure in its tactical allocation from underweight to neutral. Now that interest rates have moved substantially higher, we...

Tuesday, September 20, 2022

Understanding long-term capital gains taxes when you sell investmentsMarket downturns could be a good time to adjust your fund portfolio to minimize the tax bite. Here’s how to calculate the best ways to do that – now and...

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...

Tuesday, September 13, 2022

If one or more of your children will reach college age soon, you may be wondering how you will manage all the costs. For many families, a financial aid package provides some level of tuition support in the form of grants, scholarships,...

Monday, September 12, 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 6, 2022

Smart self-care does not just mean spa days and movie nights: there are other therapeutic ways to reduce your mental and physical stresses, including how you manage your money. If your goal is to create healthier habits...

Tuesday, September 6, 2022

The difficult 2022 for stocks may not get much easier because as we now wait for better news on the inflation front, we have to contend with a seasonally weak month of September. While we got some welcome news in Friday’s jobs...

Tuesday, August 30, 2022

IntroductionDisasters can strike anybody at any time, resulting in catastrophic property damage and loss. Fires in dwellings and natural disasters such as floods, hurricanes, tornadoes, severe storms, mudslides, and wildfires cause...

Monday, August 29, 2022

Earnings growth of 6-7% doesn’t sound very exciting, but given the challenges corporate America has faced, we consider the nearly-complete second quarter earnings season a resounding success. The numerous challenges last quarter...

Tuesday, August 23, 2022

 For parents and students trying to manage college bills and student loan payments, the federal government offers education-related tax benefits. The requirements for each are different, so here's what you need to know.American...

Monday, August 22, 2022

Existing home sales fell 5.9% in July, the sixth consecutive month of declines as higher interest rates weigh on housing affordability and prospective buyers. As the housing market slowed, so did prices. The median price for a single...

Tuesday, August 16, 2022

Regardless of what you do or how much you earn, you deal with money on a daily basis. The more you understand about finances, the more effectively you will be able to manage yours.Yet, many people lack financial literacy skills. One...

Monday, August 15, 2022

Investors cheered the two better-than-expected inflation reports last week, pushing the S&P 500 to 16% above its June 16 low and only 11% below its all-time high. After this rebound, the key question investors are asking is whether...

Tuesday, August 9, 2022

Pursuing your retirement dreams is challenging enough without making some common, and very avoidable, mistakes. Here are eight big mistakes to steer clear of, if possible.No Strategy: Yes, the biggest mistake is having no strategy at...

Monday, August 8, 2022

The market pundits remain intensely focused on the question of whether the U.S. economy is in or about to enter recession, so we thought a piece on what a recession might mean for the stock market would be of interest. While...

Tuesday, August 2, 2022

Economies and markets are cyclical. They may include periods of wealth creation and times of bursting bubbles that bankrupt companies in a major downturn."Boom and bust" cycles may last anywhere from a few months to a few years or...

Monday, August 1, 2022

That was quite a week. These days a Federal Reserve (Fed) policy meeting alone gets a lot of headlines and has market participants on the edge of their seats. Add to that the second straight quarter of negative gross domestic product...

Tuesday, July 26, 2022

What has upswings and downturns, troughs, peaks, and plateaus? Though such terms could easily describe a roller coaster ride, they are also commonly used to describe the business cycle.The business cycle – also known as the...

Monday, July 25, 2022

For the past year, supply-related problems contributed more to inflation than demand-related imbalances, but that may be changing soon. There are at least three factors that could change the course of inflation. First, the improvement...

Tuesday, July 19, 2022

Market swings often prompt investors to reassess their portfolios. As you evaluate the efficacy of your investments in light of your financial goals, it’s important to revisit two key principles—asset allocation and...

Monday, July 18, 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...

Tuesday, July 12, 2022

When market volatility takes investors on a wild ride, fear and panic are common responses to this stock market roller coaster. Acknowledging these emotions may be a good first step, but acting upon them could result in impulsive,...

Tuesday, July 12, 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 what lies ahead. So far, this year hasn’t seen a full-blown crisis...

Tuesday, July 5, 2022

Adults caring for aging parents and children simultaneously have now become known as the "sandwich generation."  While each generation comes with its own array of financial challenges, the sandwich generation often feels...

Tuesday, July 5, 2022

Stocks have been unable to make up much ground since the June 16 lows, with a bear market rally amounting to only around a 4.3% gain in the S&P 500 Index since then (as of July 1). After the more than 6% rally the week of June 24 and...

Tuesday, June 28, 2022

Planning for retirement can seem premature when you have only been in the workforce for a decade or so. But as the oldest Millennials begin to hit middle age, retirement suddenly does not seem so far away. From record-busting market...

Monday, June 27, 2022

2022 has been rough all-around for the American consumer. Not only are we battling decades-high inflation, but investors’ portfolios are off to one of the worst starts to a year in history as we near the halfway point. Our...

Tuesday, June 21, 2022

Almost half of all adults are part of the "sandwich generation." These are adults in their 40s and 50s who are helping support or care for a parent while also supporting or caring for a child.1 Being caught between two generations of...

Tuesday, June 21, 2022

The bear market that started on June 13 has left the S&P 500 Index 23.5% below its January 3 high. After the initial positive reaction to the Federal Reserve’s first 0.75% rate hike since 1994 and tough talk on inflation,...

Tuesday, June 14, 2022

When you ponder saving for college, you may think your options are limited to a 529 college savings account or a regular brokerage account. However, many parents are using individual retirement accounts (IRAs) or Roth IRAs to help pay...

Monday, June 13, 2022

This year has been tough for investors, not just because stocks have fallen but also because bonds have not helped mitigate those losses as they have historically done. Below we discuss the outlook for diversified portfolios of stocks...

Tuesday, June 7, 2022

Most portfolios are constructed based on an individual's investment objective, risk tolerance, and time horizon.Using these inputs and sophisticated portfolio-optimization calculations, most investors can feel confident that they own a...

Monday, June 6, 2022

Many pundits are issuing recession warnings and saying the economy is heading for a hard landing. Amid the cacophony of voices, we think the economy is slowing just like central bankers want but not shrinking. Further, we argue that a...

Tuesday, May 31, 2022

Are you dreaming of a mountain cabin or an oceanfront bungalow hideaway? Then you may want to consider that a vacation home can offer some tax savings. Whether you choose to use the home solely for enjoyment or combine business and...

Tuesday, May 24, 2022

529 College Savings plans are essential for saving for higher education expenses, and if used for education, accumulate tax-free. Since 529 plans came into existence in 1996, their popularity has continued to increase, with 529 plan...

Monday, May 23, 2022

Core bond investors have experienced the worst start to the year ever. However tough this year has been so far though (and it has been tough), the potential for future returns has improved meaningfully, in our view. Starting yields...

Tuesday, May 17, 2022

If you've lost your job, or are changing jobs, you may be wondering what to do with your 401(k) plan account. It's important to understand your options. What will I be entitled to? If you leave your job (voluntarily or involuntarily),...

Monday, May 16, 2022

First quarter earnings season was solid by just about any measure, but based on recent market behavior it’s obvious that in general market participants paid little attention. This is a macro-driven market, so it will likely take...

Tuesday, May 10, 2022

Many of you already have estate documents, probably executed many years ago. You need an estate attorney to look over your documents every 10 years or so. Here are a dozen points to review. Do you have a will and powers of attorney for...

Monday, May 9, 2022

It’s been a very tough start to the year with both stocks and bonds down sharply. Adding to the “wall of worry” for investors are the highest levels of U.S. inflation in decades, an aggressive Federal Reserve (Fed),...

Monday, May 2, 2022

“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, media stories, and investor questions flood in about the popular stock...

Tuesday, April 26, 2022

Legendary investor Warren Buffett is famous for his long-term perspective. He has said that he likes to make investments he would be comfortable holding even if the market shut down for 10 years. Investing with an eye toward the long...

Tuesday, April 26, 2022

Have you ever had one of those months? The water heater stops heating, the dishwasher stops washing, and your family ends up on a first-name basis with the nurse at urgent care. Then, as you're driving to work, you see smoke coming...

Monday, April 25, 2022

Not all recessions are created equal. Previous downturns in the U.S. were prompted by various shocks, with the most recent recession started by health and government-induced shutdowns. Other recessions started in the corporate sector,...

Tuesday, April 19, 2022

Simple steps to help you bounce back from challenging situations Building and sustaining a business is not a task for the faint of heart. As anyone who has launched a business from the ground up knows, transforming an idea into a...

Monday, April 18, 2022

First quarter earnings season is rolling. BlackRock, Delta Airlines, Goldman Sachs, JPMorgan Chase, and Morgan Stanley were among the first 16 S&P 500 companies to report March quarter results, following 20 index constituents with...

Tuesday, April 12, 2022

As we approach tax day 2022, you may be expecting to receive a tax refund. While you may have a temptation to spend your tax return, other options may be more beneficial to your financial situation. Your tax refund is for overpayment...

Monday, April 11, 2022

LPL Research reduced U.S. and global GDP forecasts due to Russian commodity disruptions, elevated inflation dynamics, and higher borrowing costs. Still, we expect the U.S. economy to grow 2.7-3.2% in 2022, supported by business...

Tuesday, April 5, 2022

A chocolate cake. Pasta. A pancake. They're all very different, but they generally involve flour, eggs, and perhaps a liquid. Depending on how much of each ingredient you use, you can get very different outcomes. The same is true of...

Tuesday, April 5, 2022

As the Final Four NCAA Basketball Tournament rolls on in New Orleans, we continue our tradition of picking a stock market final four. We have identified our four key factors for the stock market outlook: 1) Consumer spending, 2)...

Tuesday, March 29, 2022

Chris Rock once remarked, “You don’t pay taxes – they take taxes.”1 That applies not only to income, but also to capital gains. Capital gains result when an individual sells an investment for an amount...

Monday, March 28, 2022

As the stock market recovered from the 2020 pandemic lows, valuations reached levels not seen since the dotcom bubble more than 20 years ago. The reopening economy and massive fiscal stimulus helped fuel one of the strongest starts to...

Tuesday, March 22, 2022

A huge challenge is planning for your retirement savings to outpace inflation Some of us may remember the “good old days,” when gasoline prices were as low as 25¢ per gallon. Others may recall when a can of soda cost...

Monday, March 21, 2022

Core bond investors have experienced one of the worst starts to the year ever, potentially calling into question the validity of bonds in a portfolio. Despite the poor start, we don’t think the value proposition for bonds has...

Tuesday, March 15, 2022

The federal government's response to the COVID-19 pandemic continues to impact individual income tax returns, from the suspension of federal student loan interest to expanded child tax credits. For many taxpayers, this may mean your...

Monday, March 14, 2022

The Federal Reserve (Fed) meets this week and in all likelihood will raise short-term interest rates for the first time since emergency levels of monetary accommodation were provided to markets after the COVID-19 shutdowns....

Tuesday, March 8, 2022

Spring cleaning presents a great opportunity to clear out any items you no longer need—and the same goes for your finances. Checking in with your finances during tax season may be particularly beneficial, as it allows you to...

Monday, March 7, 2022

We currently expect the U.S. economy to grow 3.7% in 2022. The risks are to the downside since the Fed may err on tightening too fast, the recent commodity spike may trickle down to the U.S. consumer, and supply and demand imbalances...

Tuesday, March 1, 2022

With delays in tax returns over the past couple of years, as the IRS tries to catch up from the backlog and recover from shutdowns, many people are anxious to get their tax returns as fast as possible. Whether you need your return to...

Monday, February 28, 2022

With inflationary pressures running higher than many central bankers are comfortable with, calls for interest rate hikes have become louder. A number of important central bank meetings are set to take place in March including the...

Tuesday, February 22, 2022

Corporate America has capped off an outstanding 2021 with an excellent fourth-quarter earnings season so far. Entering 2021, the consensus estimate for S&P 500 Index earnings per share (EPS) was less than $170. Now with fourth-quarter...

Sunday, February 20, 2022

Regardless of whether you prepare your taxes yourself or use a professional's services, it's a good idea to gather the information and documentation you need well in advance of your actual tax filing date. Below, we've listed some key...

Tuesday, February 15, 2022

A traditional IRA offers a great way to shield income from taxation while boosting your retirement accounts. Meanwhile, a Roth IRA can let you pay tomorrow's taxes today. But how can workers who are eligible to contribute to either...

Monday, February 14, 2022

High inflation continues to cloud the economic outlook while its impact on the potential path of rate hikes has left markets unsettled. Inflation is a serious topic, but occasionally it’s useful to revisit it from a lighter...

Wednesday, February 9, 2022

Watching Super Bowl LVI just wouldn’t be the same without the proper food and beverages. If you’ve graduated from burgers, brats, and domestics, here are some tasty recipes that will take your party in for the win! Game Day...

Tuesday, February 8, 2022

You’re already sharing a life, now it’s time to share some important info to get your matrimonial journey off to a great start. Congrats on your recent nuptials! Now that you’ve said the vows and enjoyed a...

Monday, February 7, 2022

The near-10% correction in the S&P 500 Index and even larger drawdown in the Nasdaq have gotten a lot of attention this year. What hasn’t gotten as much attention—and maybe surprising to some—is the relative...

Tuesday, February 1, 2022

Common sense tips to help children, teens and other vulnerable groups The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is helping families, teens and senior citizens learn about the continued importance of protecting personal information in helping...

Monday, January 31, 2022

Sustainable investing hit several milestones in 2021, but continued to attract its critics. Below we look at how sustainable investing fits within the broader concept of sustainability, its growth during 2021, and an implementation...

Tuesday, January 25, 2022

According to the most recent Generational Trends report from the National Association of REALTORS®, Millennials currently make up the majority of home buyers, with Gen Z waiting in the wings as the next generation of...

Monday, January 24, 2022

After a tough start for stocks in 2022, investors are looking for reasons to expect a rebound. After more than doubling off the pandemic lows in March 2020, without anything more than a 5% pullback in 2021, stocks probably needed a...

Tuesday, January 18, 2022

With inflation on the rise, the IRS increased the 2022 contribution limits for some retirement accounts. Although a 2021 Congressional report found that only about 8.5% of defined benefit plan participants and 4.7% of individual...

Tuesday, January 18, 2022

The Federal Reserve (Fed) has engineered a massive hawkish shift, causing a bit more stock market volatility recently. But how worried should investors be? Here we take a look back at historical performance for stocks before, after,...

Tuesday, January 11, 2022

To live a long life, you’ll need a healthy supply of money to go the distance with you. The risk of outliving your money is called “longevity risk.” Begin early and follow the following good financial habits, and...

Monday, January 10, 2022

Corporate America has been on quite a run. Coming into 2021, S&P 500 Index companies were expected to generate less than $170 in earnings per share. As 2022 begins, it looks like that number may end up higher than the latest LPL...

Tuesday, January 4, 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...

Monday, January 3, 2022

In many ways, 2021 was a typical year for markets, but it also reinforced some basic market lessons that are hard to learn, even if they are not new. As we launch into the New Year, we’re highlighting three 2021 market lessons...

Monday, December 27, 2021

We expect interest rates to move modestly higher in 2022 based on near-term inflation expectations above historical trends and improving growth expectations once the impact of COVID-19 variants recede. Our year-end 2022 forecast for...

Monday, December 27, 2021

Not knowing what Congress will do should not stop you from planning One variable that is hard to plan for in retirement is taxes. There are steps you can take, though, despite the uncertain tax landscape. We don’t even know what...

Tuesday, December 21, 2021

There are countless benefits of charitable giving. Through generous donations, you can make a difference in your community and society. You may also feel happier and even save on your taxes. During the holiday season, consider giving...

Monday, December 20, 2021

We expect solid economic and earnings growth in 2022 to help U.S. stocks deliver additional gains next year. If we are approaching—or are already in—the middle of an economic cycle with at least a few more years left (our...

Monday, December 13, 2021

We believe pent-up demand, gradual improvement in supply chain challenges, solid labor force growth, and productivity gains will all contribute to another year of above-trend economic growth in 2022.

Monday, December 13, 2021

By the last few months 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...

Wednesday, December 8, 2021

LPL Research Outlook 2022: Passing the Baton is designed to help you navigate the risks and opportunities over the rest of 2021 and beyond. While the economy continues to move forward, we’re still feeling some aftershocks of...

Monday, December 6, 2021

Monday, December 6, 2021

Spend as much time fixing your mistakes as you do planning the holidays. You probably spend more time planning your holiday gathering than preparing for your golden years. As a result, you make basic mistakes in trying to fund your...

Wednesday, December 1, 2021

With the end of the tax year fast approaching, you may want to find ways to minimize your tax liability. Implementing one or more of the simple strategies discussed below may allow you to hold on to more of your earnings, potentially...

Monday, November 22, 2021

There are only six weeks to go in 2021 and it has been an incredible year for the stock market bulls. In fact, in many ways it could go down as one of the best years ever. This week, in honor of Thanksgiving, we wanted to take a...

Monday, November 15, 2021

After an updside inflation surprise in October, it’s clear that peak inflation may still be ahead, possibly even pushing into 2022. While the Federal Reserve (Fed) maintains its position that elevated inflation will be...

Thursday, November 11, 2021

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...

Monday, November 8, 2021

Since we began our investing careers, we’ve had the concept of diversification drilled into our heads. Some refer to it as the only free lunch in investing. Well, when it comes to geography, that advice hasn’t been helpful...

Monday, November 8, 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...

Thursday, November 4, 2021

Regardless of how the markets may perform, consider making the following part of your investment philosophy: Diversification. The saying “don’t put all your eggs in one basket” has some application to investing. Over...

Monday, November 1, 2021

Seventy-two is an important age milestone for those in or near retirement, as it marks the time when required minimum distributions (RMDs) begin to be withdrawn annually from IRAs and employer-sponsored retirement plans (previously,...

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