(312) 337-1040

women

Stocks Rally Ahead of Fed Meeting

2024-09-16T09:22:07-05:00September 16, 2024|Categories: Weekly Update|Tags: , , , , , , , , , , |

The Weekly Update

Week of September 16th, 2024
By Christopher T. Much, CFP®, AIF®

Stocks rallied last week as investors received better-than-expected consumer and producer inflation data.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 2.60 percent, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 Index gained 4.02 percent. The Nasdaq Composite led, picking up 5.95 percent as tech stocks rebounded. The MSCI EAFE Index, which tracks developed overseas stock markets, rose 1.01 percent.

A Wednesday to Remember
Stocks bounced out of the gate at the start of the week as “risk on” investors made moves before the pending release of the twin inflation reports–the Consumer Price Index (CPI) and Producer Price Index (PPI). The three major averages added slightly more than 1 percent in Monday trading.

On Wednesday, stocks initially dipped following the release of the CPI as traders appeared disappointed by the report. By midday, sentiment changed. The S&P 500, down as much as 1.6 percent in …

Stocks React To Key Data And Earnings

2024-09-03T09:21:29-05:00September 3, 2024|Categories: Weekly Update|Tags: , , , , , , , , |

The Weekly Update

Week of September 3rd, 2024
By Christopher T. Much, CFP®, AIF®

There were mixed results for stocks last week as upbeat economic data and a critical Q2 corporate report shaped the week.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 0.94 percent, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 Index increased 0.24 percent. The Nasdaq Composite lagged, falling 0.92 percent. The MSCI EAFE Index, which tracks developed overseas stock markets, gained 0.35 percent.

Key Economic Data
Markets began the week quiet as investors awaited Q2 earnings from Nvidia, the world’s most influential name in artificial intelligence.

The chipmaker–the second largest stock in the S&P 500 by market capitalization–dipped on the news, putting pressure on the Nasdaq and S&P 500. (The Nasdaq and S&P 500 are market-weighted averages, so larger companies have an outsized impact.)

Nvidia is mentioned to show its influence on the overall stock market. It should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase …

Stocks Stage Comeback After Heavy Monday

2024-08-12T10:23:05-05:00August 12, 2024|Categories: Weekly Update|Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , |

The Weekly Update

Week of August 12th, 2024
By Christopher T. Much, CFP®, AIF®

Stocks ended last week with modest losses, masking a volatile five-day trading period that saw investors embrace recession concerns and then dismiss the slow-down talk as speculation as the week progressed.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average slipped 0.60 percent, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 Index ended flat (-0.04 percent). The Nasdaq Composite dipped 0.18 percent. The MSCI EAFE Index, which tracks developed overseas stock markets, fell 1.21 percent.

Stocks Stage Comeback
Monday was the worst day for the S&P 500 and the Dow in nearly two years. As recession talk grew louder, investors took a “risk off” position.

On Monday, the Japanese market had its worst drop since 1987 as market participants unwound positions from a popular trading strategy called a “carry trade” amid a global sell-off in stock prices.

But on Thursday, initial jobless claims fell less than expected—a positive …

  • Half Million Dollar Baby

Half Million Dollar Baby

2025-03-25T12:18:06-05:00April 6, 2023|Categories: Resource Center|Tags: , , |

Half Million Dollar Baby

What Does It Actually Cost to Raise a Child?

The costs associated with raising a child start right at birth. A hospital bill for childbirth can easily reach up to $20,000, depending on various factors such as the type of birth and insurance coverage. Additionally, prenatal care adds extra expenses, often making the total cost even higher.

Food Costs

Once a child is born, feeding them becomes a significant part of the budget. On average, parents spend nearly $2,500 each year on food for their children. Over 18 years, this adds up to almost $45,000. These costs increase as the child grows and their nutritional needs change.

Hiring Help

For households with two working parents, the cost of childcare can be substantial. Depending on the type of care, expenses can range from $5,436 to $24,243 per year. Whether it’s daycare, a nanny, or other forms of help, these costs are …

The Great Resignation

2022-03-07T22:27:35-06:00March 6, 2022|Categories: Resource Center, Weekly Update|Tags: , , , , |

The Great Resignation

The Great Resignation — a popular phrase referring to the roughly 33 million Americans who have resigned since the spring of 2021 — is far more than just a movement of people quitting their jobs. It’s a shift in the mindset of primarily Millennial and Generation Z workers, who are fed-up and looking for a change.
In our latest article, we take a look at the phenomenon that is The Great Resignation and unpack why people are resigning and how companies are addressing this unprecedented labor market issue. Download the article here.
  • Alternative Investments - Luxury Collectibles, A Growing Asset Class

Alternative Investments – Luxury Collectibles, A Growing Asset Class

2025-03-25T12:27:44-05:00February 13, 2022|Categories: Resource Center|Tags: , , , |

Alternative Investments – Luxury Collectibles, A Growing Asset Class

In our new infographic below, we examine a unique alternative investment category — luxury collectibles.  Along with the infographic, download our latest article on alternative investments here – https://bit.ly/3gKB4KM

Alternative Investments: Luxury Collectibles as a Growing Asset Class

In the wake of the 2008 financial meltdown and the uncertainty of the global pandemic, investors have increasingly turned to alternative investments. Concerned that traditional stock markets no longer offer reliable capital preservation, many have sought new opportunities. Luxury collectibles, such as fine wine, art, jewelry, and watches, have become popular asset classes, offering low correlation to the market and potential for high returns.

Fine Wine

Investing in fine wine has gained traction as an alternative investment, particularly in times of market instability. After the 2008 crisis, the Liv-Ex 100 Index saw a remarkable 40.5% return. Even more recently, fine wine prices have continued …

  • Two People Reviewing Finances, Money Tips for Better Relationships

Money Tips for Better Relationships

2025-03-25T12:33:26-05:00May 26, 2021|Categories: Resource Center, Weekly Update|Tags: , , , , |

Money Tips for Better Relationships

Financial disagreements are a significant challenge in marriages, with research indicating that 70% of married millennial couples argue about money more than any other topic. These disputes can contribute to marital strain and even dissolution. However, couples who approach their finances collaboratively can often overcome these challenges and strengthen their relationship.

Effective communication is crucial for navigating financial discussions. Couples should openly talk about their financial goals, habits, and past experiences, as these factors often shape how each partner views money. Setting shared goals and creating a mutually agreed-upon budget can provide clarity and foster unity. Additionally, regularly meeting to review financial matters, establishing a clear threshold for big purchases, and working together on decisions can minimize conflict and ensure both partners feel involved.

Trust, honesty, and a willingness to update financial plans as life changes are also vital. Couples may benefit from seeking the advice of …

  • Woman Drinking Coffee On Bench With Dog At Her Side, 9 Crucial Steps to Ensure You’re Prepared for Retirement

9 Crucial Steps to Ensure You’re Prepared for Retirement

2025-03-25T12:40:57-05:00March 26, 2021|Categories: Resource Center, Weekly Update|Tags: , , , |

9 Crucial Steps to Ensure You’re Prepared for Retirement

As retirement approaches, it’s crucial to have a plan in place to ensure a smooth transition. The pre-retirement checklist is an essential tool to help you assess how ready you are. By breaking down key elements, you can better understand your goals and progress. Start by determining your goals—consider when and how you want to retire, your desired lifestyle, and where you plan to live. Whether you plan to downsize your home, travel, or enjoy a more relaxed pace, defining these aspects will shape your retirement.

Health insurance, long-term care, and Medicare strategies are also important considerations. Since 52% of people turning 65 will require long-term care, planning ahead is essential. Similarly, understanding your health coverage options and preparing for potential medical costs is vital. When it comes to finances, reviewing your spending and budget is crucial. Assess your current savings and …

  • Thriving In The Gig Economy

Thriving in the Gig Economy

2025-03-26T08:25:43-05:00June 21, 2019|Categories: Resource Center|Tags: , , , |

Thriving in the Gig Economy

Thriving in the Gig Economy

Approximately 57 million Americans participate in the gig economy. While the gig economy has been around forever, the number of freelancers has increased exponentially. The need for these freelancers and side hustlers to save for retirement is greater than ever.

The gig economy, which includes independent contractors and freelancers, continues to grow rapidly. With over 57 million Americans participating in this type of work, it’s clear that the shift toward gig work is here to stay. While this model offers flexibility and good income, it also presents challenges in managing finances, particularly when it comes to retirement savings, taxes, and insurance. Fortunately, freelancers can take several proactive steps to improve their financial future.

First, gig workers should secure health insurance and consider opening a Health Savings Account (HSA). The HSA offers a tax-friendly way to save for medical expenses, and after age 65, …

Go to Top