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Monday, April 27, 2026

Stocks were mixed last week as investors gauged potential outcomes of the Middle East conflict amid an ongoing ceasefire.The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index rose 0.55 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index advanced 1.50 percent. By...

Monday, April 20, 2026

Stocks rallied last week as investor enthusiasm built for an end to the war in the Middle East and hopes of a resumption of normal global trade. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index rose 4.54 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index picked...

Monday, April 13, 2026

Hope won out over fear last week as investors set their sights on a Middle East ceasefire holding and optimistic prospects for the Strait of Hormuz reopening.The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index rose 3.56 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite...

Monday, April 6, 2026

Stocks rose over the short trading week on fresh hopes for a quick end to the Middle East conflict, while March job growth was unexpectedly strong.The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index picked up 3.36 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index...

Monday, March 30, 2026

Stocks ended a challenging week lower as investors' attention shifted from updates on ceasefire talks to concerns about the economic impact of a protracted conflict.The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index lost 2.12 percent, while the Nasdaq...

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Monday, March 23, 2026

Another volatile week unfolded as rapid developments in the Middle East and public comments from leaders on the conflict see-sawed markets, leaving investors struggling to keep up with updates.The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index lost 1.89...

Monday, March 16, 2026

Stocks logged a third-straight down week as investors digested the latest news out of the Middle East, navigated more volatility, and mulled the latest economic data. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index declined 1.60 percent, while the...

Monday, March 9, 2026

Stocks fell last week as investors assessed the implications of a fresh Middle East conflict while digesting mixed signals from the February jobs report.The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index fell 2.02 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite...

Monday, March 2, 2026

Stocks fell last week amid concerns about artificial intelligence (AI) and a warmer-than-expected reading of wholesale inflation. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index fell 0.44 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index declined 0.95 percent...

Monday, February 23, 2026

Stocks ended a choppy four-session run in the green, with tech-led momentum earlier in the week prevailing over news of a slowing economy, sticky inflation, and geopolitical tensions.The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index advanced 1.07...

Tuesday, February 17, 2026

Stocks fell last week as investors reacted to mixed economic data and concerns over signs of broadening AI disruption of business models.The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index fell 1.39 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index declined 2.10...

Monday, February 9, 2026

Stocks were mixed last week, with broad gains on Monday and Friday bookending midweek selling pressure as investors digested earnings results from more than 100 S&P 500 companies.The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index ended the week roughly...

Monday, February 2, 2026

Stocks were mixed last week as investors navigated Q4 corporate results, a widely expected Fed decision, and a handful of economic reports.The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index rose 0.34 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index edged down 0...

Monday, January 26, 2026

Markets ended a short but eventful week slightly lower amid geopolitical tensions and fresh tariff threats. However, constructive economic news appeared to buoy spirits as the week progressed.The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index fell 0.35...

Tuesday, January 20, 2026

Stocks ended last week with modest losses after a volatile five days of market-moving economic data, geopolitics, and Fed drama.The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index slid 0.38 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index skidded 0.66 percent....

Monday, January 12, 2026

Stocks posted solid gains in an action-packed week of market-moving economic data, geopolitical news, and bullish new year sentiment.The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index gained 1.57 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index added 1.88...

Monday, January 5, 2026

Stocks trended lower last week amid signs of year-end profit-taking and some sour investor sentiment over the Fed meeting minutes.The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index fell 1.03 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index lost 1.52 percent....

Wednesday, December 31, 2025

Before we jump into the hard-hitting predictions for 2026, let’s take a minute to put a bow on 2025.2025 was a good year for almost all risk assets--with the exception of bitcoin and cryptocurrencies in general. International markets...

Monday, December 29, 2025

Stocks delivered for investors last week as positive economic data and bullish holiday cheer powered the start of a “Santa Claus rally” past consumer bah humbug sentiment.The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index rose 1.40 percent, while the...

Monday, December 22, 2025

Stocks posted a slight gain last week as mixed jobs data triggered some selling pressure before a cooling inflation report helped stocks recover.The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index inched ahead 0.10 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite...

Monday, December 15, 2025

Stocks ended last week mixed. A widely anticipated Federal Reserve decision on interest rates and a rotation into non-tech areas helped push the Dow Industrials higher, while the broader market and technology stocks lagged behind. The...

Monday, December 8, 2025

Stock prices pushed higher last week, notching multiple records along the way as employment and inflation data took center stage in anticipation of the Fed’s upcoming meeting. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index rose 0.31 percent, while...

Monday, December 1, 2025

Stocks pushed higher over the holiday week as investors' hopes for a Fed rate adjustment drove bullish sentiment. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index rose 3.73 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index rallied 4.91 percent. The Dow Jones...

Monday, November 24, 2025

Heightened volatility was on Wall Street’s mind last week, as investors continued to focus on valuations of artificial intelligence (AI) stocks. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index fell 1.95 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index...

Monday, November 17, 2025

Stocks ended mixed after a nail-biting week for investors, who grew anxious over megacap tech valuations and interest rates as the government shutdown came to an end. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index edged up 0.08 percent, while the...

Monday, November 10, 2025

Stocks hit a rough patch last week as fresh labor market data, low consumer sentiment, and the ongoing government shutdown unnerved investors. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index declined 1.63 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index...

Monday, November 3, 2025

Stocks rose last week as trade developments, positive Q3 corporate results, and momentum in megacap tech drove another rally, despite some cautious comments from the Fed. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index gained 0.71 percent, while the...

Monday, October 27, 2025

Stocks rose last week thanks to a full slate of upbeat third-quarter corporate results and mild inflation data, which helped soften concerns over trade tensions with China. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index gained 1.92 percent, while...

Monday, October 20, 2025

Stocks pushed higher last week, buoyed by strong third-quarter results posted by several money center banks. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index gained 1.70 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index rose 2.14 percent. The Dow Jones...

Monday, October 13, 2025

Stocks fell last week amid concerns about trade with China, following an unsteady rally to record highs over the first half of the week. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index fell 2.43 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index declined 2.53...

Sunday, October 5, 2025

Stocks rose last week, looking past the government shutdown and apparently discounting any impact it may have on the economy. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index moved up 1.08 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index rose 1.32 percent....

Monday, September 29, 2025

Stocks fell last week, buffeted by concerns about stock price valuations and a possible government shutdown. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index declined 0.31 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index lost 0.65 percent. The Dow Jones...

Monday, September 22, 2025

Stocks posted solid gains last week, propelled by the Fed’s decision to cut short-term interest rates. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index rose 1.22 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index climbed 2.21 percent. The Dow Jones Industrial...

Friday, September 19, 2025

The lays are long, but the years are short (part four!). Tomorrow is my son’s fourth birthday. Still seems like just yesterday we were packing an overnight bag enroute to the hospital. Reflecting on another busy year as a father of two...

Monday, September 15, 2025

Stocks posted a solid gain last week, riding a rally in megacap tech stocks while overcoming interest rate anxiety, a downward revision to jobs data, and mixed inflation reports. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index rose 1.59 percent,...

Monday, September 8, 2025

Stocks made gains last week, even as megacap tech gains outweighed economic concerns. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index advanced 0.33 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index rose 1.14 percent. The Dow Jones Industrial Average...

Tuesday, September 2, 2025

Stocks ended the week slightly lower as mixed economic data led to some profit-taking by investors ahead of the holiday weekend. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index edged down 0.10 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index slipped 0.19...

Monday, August 25, 2025

Stocks were mixed last week despite a powerful Friday rally sparked by Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, who opened the door to adjusting short-term interest rates in September. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index picked up 0.27...

Monday, August 18, 2025

Stocks rose last week despite mixed signals on inflation as investors kept one eye on the Fed’s September meeting. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index advanced 0.94 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index added 0.81 percent. The Dow...

Monday, August 11, 2025

Stocks rebounded last week as investor optimism for a September rate cut and strong Q2 corporate results overcame the rollout of fresh tariffs. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index rose 2.43 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index gained...

Monday, August 4, 2025

Summer Vacation is Over Stocks fell last week as investors assessed progress on trade negotiations, new U.S. tariffs, and fresh economic data. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index fell 2.36 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index declined...

Monday, July 28, 2025

Expectation-beating Q2 results from several companies, trade updates, and investor optimism for more trade agreements pushed market averages to solid gains. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index advanced 1.46 percent, while the Nasdaq...

Monday, July 21, 2025

Stocks were mixed last week, battling through tariff talk while responding to upbeat quarterly corporate reports and a trove of updates on the economy. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index rose 0.59 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite...

Monday, July 14, 2025

Stocks were slightly lower last week, while looking past news of fresh U.S. tariffs on nearly two dozen countries. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index fell 0.31 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index edged lower by 0.08 percent. The...

Monday, July 7, 2025

Trade developments and continued momentum pushed all three major averages to modest gains again for a shortened holiday trading week. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index rose 1.72 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index added 1.62...

Monday, June 30, 2025

Stocks staged a broad-based rally last week on investors’ hopes for a lasting Middle East ceasefire, hitting fresh record highs along the way. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index rose 3.44 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index added 4...

Monday, June 23, 2025

Stocks were mixed during the holiday-shortened trading week as uncertainty over conflict in the Middle East weighed on investors. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index slipped by 0.15 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index rose by 0.21...

Monday, June 16, 2025

Stocks fell last week as an up-and-down mix of trade progress and anxiety, economic news, and geopolitical tensions netted out. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index slid 0.39 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index slipped 0.63 percent....

Monday, June 9, 2025

Stocks rallied last week as investors responded to upbeat economic data and easing trade tensions. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index added 1.50 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index rose 2.18 percent. The Dow Jones Industrial...

Monday, June 2, 2025

Stocks advanced over the short trading week, bolstered by a possible trade deal with the European Union (EU) and an upbeat earnings report from tech giant Nvidia. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index rose 1.87 percent, while the Nasdaq...

Tuesday, May 27, 2025

Stocks moved lower last week as fiscal fears and fresh tariff threats loomed over market sentiment. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index fell 2.61 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index dropped 2.47 percent. The Dow Jones Industrial...

Monday, May 19, 2025

Stocks roared higher last week, powered by upbeat trade news and tame inflation reports. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index rose 5.27 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index spiked 7.15 percent. The Dow Jones Industrial Average added 3...

Monday, May 12, 2025

Stocks were mostly flat last week as volatility dropped despite ongoing trade concerns and the Federal Reserve's update on short-term rates. The Dow Jones Industrial Average added 0.16 percent, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 Index...

Monday, May 5, 2025

Stocks pushed higher last week as investors cheered the White House’s constructive comments on trade, upbeat Q1 corporate reports, and an encouraging jobs report. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index gained 2.92 percent, while the Nasdaq...

Monday, April 28, 2025

Stocks pushed higher last week, spurred by the White House's reassuring comments that progress was being made with trade talks. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index gained 4.59 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index picked up 6.73...

Monday, April 21, 2025

U.S. stocks slipped over the shortened trading week as Q1 corporate reports started to roll in. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index dropped 1.50 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index fell 2.62 percent. The Dow Jones Industrial Average...

Wednesday, April 16, 2025

If you are reading this blog post, congratulations are in order. You survived another tax season! To coincide with the end of tax season, I am sharing a letter Donald Rumsfeld would attach to his tax return every year (see below). Our...

Monday, April 14, 2025

Stocks ended the week with a strong gain as traders continued to focus on tariff talks while appearing to overlook upbeat news on inflation. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index rose 5.70 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index gained 7...

Monday, April 7, 2025

Stocks fell broadly last week as domestic and foreign markets reacted to the White House’s tariffs. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index declined 9.08 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index fell 10.02 percent. The Dow Jones Industrial...

Monday, March 31, 2025

Stocks moved lower last week as investors swung from exuberance to disappointment on news over tariffs and inflation. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index fell 1.53 percent on the week, while the Nasdaq Composite Index retreated 2.59...

Monday, March 24, 2025

Stocks notched a solid gain last week as upbeat comments from the Fed helped stocks snap their four-week losing streak. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index rose 0.51 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index picked up 0.17 percent. The...

Monday, March 17, 2025

Investors endured another volatile, whipsaw week as ongoing trade talks and White House comments about the economy unsettled investors. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index declined 2.27 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index dropped 2...

Monday, March 10, 2025

Stocks continued their slide through a volatile week. U.S. trade policy drove much of the market’s movement, broadening investors' concerns about economic growth and inflation. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index declined 3.10 percent,...

Monday, March 3, 2025

Stocks were mixed last week as investor concerns over inflation and trade policy combined to produce another volatile trading week. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 0.95 percent, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 Index lost 0.98...

Monday, February 24, 2025

US Stocks fell last week as concerns about sticky inflation and the pace of economic growth rattled investors. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index declined 1.66 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index dropped 2.51 percent. The Dow Jones...

Tuesday, February 18, 2025

Stocks advanced last week despite some intra-week volatility as investors showed concern about the economy's strength. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index gained 1.47 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index picked up 2.58 percent. The...

Monday, February 10, 2025

Stocks posted modest losses last week as tariff deals, January jobs data, and Q4 corporate reports injected volatility into markets. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index slipped 0.24 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index lost 0.53...

Monday, February 3, 2025

Stocks were mixed last week as investors parsed market-moving news nearly every trading day—from an unsettling AI update to White House news to Q4 corporate reports. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index fell 1.00 percent while the Nasdaq...

Monday, January 27, 2025

Stocks rallied last week as investors reacted positively to a handful of better-than-expected corporate earnings reports and developments out of Washington, D.C. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index gained 1.74 percent, while the Nasdaq...

Tuesday, January 21, 2025

Stocks roared back last week, fueled by upbeat Q4 corporate reports and economic news that stalled inflationary fears. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index rose 2.91 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index advanced 2.45 percent. The Dow...

Thursday, January 16, 2025

I hate to break this to you, but your financial advisor or investment professional will retire or otherwise decide to move on from his or her business someday. Unless he or she works for a large financial institution (i.e. a big bank,...

Monday, January 13, 2025

Stocks fell for the second consecutive week as strong economic data stoked inflationary fears among investors. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index declined 1.94 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index dropped 2.34 percent. The Dow Jones...

Monday, January 6, 2025

Stocks edged lower last week despite a powerful end-of-week rally. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index lost 0.48 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index slid 0.51 percent. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 0.60 percent. The MSCI...

Tuesday, December 31, 2024

Before we jump into the hard-hitting predictions for 2025, let’s take aminute to put a bow on 2024. 2024 was a good year for most US-based risk assets. US markets outperformed international markets despite international markets...

Monday, December 30, 2024

Stocks notched a slight gain over the holiday week. A tech-driven rally in the first half of the week was clawed back in the second half as investors took profits following the market holiday. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index advanced...

Monday, December 23, 2024

Stocks were under pressure last week as the Fed Chair's hawkish comments unsettled investors ahead of the holiday season. The Dow Jones Industrial Average received the hardest hit, falling 2.25 percent. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index...

Monday, December 16, 2024

Stocks finished the week mixed, bookending losses around midweek gains as investors digested fresh inflation data. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index slipped 0.64 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index ticked up 0.34 percent. The Dow...

Monday, December 9, 2024

Stocks were mixed during the first trading week of December. Technology stocks led, while the widely followed Dow Jones Industrial Average struggled. The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index picked up 3.34 percent while the Dow...

Monday, December 2, 2024

Stocks posted solid gains over a short and busy holiday week as investors parsed fresh economic data, comments on potential future trade policy, and a few Q3 reports from technology companies. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index gained 1...

Tuesday, November 26, 2024

Happy Thanksgiving All!

Monday, November 25, 2024

Stocks advanced last week, powering ahead with pre-holiday optimism despite geopolitical tensions and two disappointing Q3 corporate updates. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index rose 1.68 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index gained 1...

Friday, November 22, 2024

There’s an old Wall Street expression that suggests, “Markets climb a wall of worry.” This expression suggests that stock prices tend to trend higher in an up-trending market, similar to this year, despite all the negative noise. This...

Monday, November 18, 2024

Stocks fell last week as the postelection rally lost momentum amid an inflation uptick and cautious comments from Fed officials. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index fell 2.08 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index declined 3.15 percent...

Monday, November 11, 2024

Stocks surged higher last week, fueled by the Fed’s rate cut decision and post-election enthusiasm as investors looked to future policy impacts of a Republican-controlled Senate and executive branch. The House of Representatives...

Monday, November 4, 2024

Stocks slid last week as mixed economic data and strong-but-not-spectacular Q3 corporate reports failed to inspire investors. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index fell 1.36 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index declined 1.50 percent....

Monday, October 28, 2024

Stocks were mixed last week as fresh economic data points and election-related uncertainty slowed market momentum. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index fell 0.96 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index rose 0.16 percent. The Dow Jones...

Friday, October 25, 2024

The Internal Revenue Service released the updated income tax brackets, standard deduction, and retirement contribution limits for the 2025 tax year. While these changes won’t impact you today, it may benefit you to start thinking...

Monday, October 21, 2024

Stocks posted modest gains last week, with quarterly earnings season in full swing and the election on the horizon. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index increased 0.85 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index rose 0.80 percent. The Dow...

Monday, October 14, 2024

Stocks advanced last week despite mixed inflation data, lurching oil prices, and lingering anxiety about the Middle East. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index gained 1.11 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite rose 1.13 percent. The Dow Jones...

Monday, October 7, 2024

Stocks were essentially unchanged last week as geopolitical tensions and a labor dispute added some volatility to an otherwise quiet trading week. The Dow Jones Industrial Average was flat (+0.09 percent), while the Standard & Poor’s...

Monday, September 30, 2024

Stocks moved higher last week, continuing to build on the momentum generated after the Federal Reserve decided to cut short-term rates by 0.50 percent. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index gained 0.59 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite...

Monday, September 23, 2024

Stocks moved higher again last week after the Federal Reserve’s half-point rate cut, bolstered by multiple data points supporting a cooling but still strong economy and decelerating inflation. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index gained 1...

Friday, September 20, 2024

But the years are short (part three!). Today is my son’s third birthday. Still seems like just yesterday we were packing an overnight bag en route to the hospital. Reflecting on a busy year, I’m sharing an updated list of things that...

Monday, September 16, 2024

Stocks rallied last week as markets reacted favorably to 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...

Tuesday, September 10, 2024

Anticipation is growing for the Fed’s next two-day policy meeting, which ends on September 18, 2024. And with good reason! If the Fed decides to cut short-term interest rates, it would be the first adjustment to be lower in more than...

Monday, September 9, 2024

Stocks fell last week as softer-than-expected economic data rattled investors. The Dow Jones Industrial Average lost 2.93 percent, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 Index dropped 4.25 percent. The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite fell 5.77...

Tuesday, September 3, 2024

Stocks were a mixed bag 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...

Monday, August 26, 2024

Stocks notched a solid gain as dovish comments from Federal Reserve officials boosted the market’s recovery from early August lows. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index rose 1.45 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite added 1.40 percent. The...

Monday, August 19, 2024

Stocks posted solid gains last week, buoyed by robust economic data and constructive comments from Fed officials. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index rose 3.93 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite gained 5.29 percent. The Dow Jones...

Monday, August 12, 2024

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...

Monday, August 5, 2024

Stocks fell broadly last week as investors looked past upbeat Fed comments and focused on disappointing corporate reports and weaker-than-expected economic data. The Dow Jones Industrial Average lost 2.20 percent, while the Standard &...

Thursday, August 1, 2024

Today marks the end of a successful first trip around the sun for Park Hill Financial Planning & Investment Management. Hard to believe it has already been a year—as they say, time flies when you’re having fun! A year ago, I was...

Monday, July 29, 2024

Stocks had a mixed, see-saw week as disappointing corporate reports unsettled investors who appeared to rotate away from some leading groups in favor of other names. The Dow Jones Industrial Average picked up 0.75 percent. Meanwhile,...

Monday, July 22, 2024

Stocks were under pressure last week as investors appeared to rotate out of mega-cap tech stocks and into areas that may benefit from lower interest rates. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index fell 1.97 percent, while Nasdaq Composite...

Monday, July 15, 2024

Stocks advanced last week as market leadership shifted amid fresh inflation data and quarterly corporate reports starting to roll in. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index advanced 0.87 percent, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average picked...

Monday, July 8, 2024

Stocks steadily advanced over the holiday week thanks to strength in mega-cap tech issues and encouraging jobs data. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index rose 1.95 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index added 3.50 percent. The Dow Jones...

Monday, July 1, 2024

Can you believe the first half of 2024 is already behind us? And what a first half it was! Markets were higher across the board in the first half: Nasdaq led the way: +19.40% S&P 500: +15.75% S&P 400 (Mid Cap): +5.84% Russell 2000...

Monday, June 24, 2024

Stocks edged higher over the four trading days last week, with the three major averages taking turns leading based on various economic and artificial intelligence (AI) news. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 1.45 percent–its best...

Monday, June 17, 2024

Large Cap Stocks notched a solid gain last week, driven by the Fed’s decision, May's inflation report, and Apple’s AI-related news. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index rose 1.58 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite picked up 3.24 percent....

Tuesday, June 11, 2024

Ticketmaster is reeling from a data breach. Hackers stole the data of over 500 million customers, compromising information related to ticket sales, including credit card numbers.1 While this news is incredibly troubling, it’s also...

Monday, June 10, 2024

Stocks rose last week despite conflicting stories from economic reports. The Dow Jones Industrial Average inched up 0.29 percent while the Standard & Poor’s 500 Index powered ahead 1.31 percent. The Nasdaq Composite led, picking up 2...

Tuesday, June 4, 2024

Investors know that the stock market moves in cycles, but the cycle has seen no daily drops of more than 2 percent for over a year. As the accompanying chart shows, the 2023-2024 stretch of low volatility ranks 9th since 1966. Is that...

Monday, June 3, 2024

Stocks edged lower in the final week of May as fresh news on economic growth and inflation failed to inspire investors. Stocks Slide Markets shrugged off news that the Q1 Gross Domestic Product was revised lower to 1.3 percent from...

Tuesday, May 28, 2024

Last week's stock performance was mixed, following investors' reaction to the Fed's May meeting minutes, while a handful of mega-cap tech companies created a buzz with their news. Market Splits Stocks began trading in a narrow band...

Monday, May 20, 2024

Stocks notched a solid gain last week in a mega-cap, tech-led rally bolstered by positive inflation news. Dow 40,000 The week began quietly as market averages traded in a tight range, awaiting fresh inflation news. On Tuesday, markets...

Monday, May 13, 2024

Stocks notched a solid gain last week as rate-cut expectations paced the rally as the Q1 earnings season wound down. Stocks Climb Steadily Monday opened with stocks picking up where they left off the prior Friday. Stocks were still...

Tuesday, May 7, 2024

Some have been waiting for the Fed to lower interest rates and confirm it will ease monetary policy, which may result in lower home mortgage rates, credit card rates, auto loans, and so forth. However, the Fed went another route at...

Monday, May 6, 2024

Stocks notched a solid gain last week, rallying behind upbeat earnings, a dovish Fed, and mixed economic data. Stocks Pop, Drop, Then Rally Markets began the week with an upward bump as positive news from some mega-cap tech companies...

Monday, April 29, 2024

Stocks staged a choppy comeback last week as investors cheered positive earnings, led by mega-cap tech stocks. The rally came to pass despite fresh data showing a slowing economy and increasing inflationary pressures. Stocks Bounce...

Monday, April 22, 2024

Stocks fell for a third straight week as Fed Chair Jerome Powell's mixed but upbeat message could not offset the anxiety caused by the Middle East conflict. Stocks Retreat Markets began the week rattled by further escalation in the...

Tuesday, April 16, 2024

At the end of 2025, portions of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) are set to expire. Many changes will come with the sunsetting of many rules, including the possibility that federal estate and gift tax exemption levels will revert to...

Monday, April 15, 2024

Stocks fell last week as investors sorted through conflicting inflation reports and assessed geopolitical tensions. Inflation Spooks Markets On Wednesday, the March Consumer Price Index (CPI) report rattled markets, revealing that...

Thursday, April 11, 2024

"Every silver lining's got a touch of grey" I've recently been drawn to these immortal lyrics from Robert Hunter. Made famous by the Grateful Dead in the band's only top-40 single in its 30-year career, I've found them to perfectly...

Monday, April 8, 2024

Stocks dropped last week as investors focused on “what's next” for interest rates after mixed comments from multiple Fed official and a strong March employment report. Fed Officials Weigh In Stocks struggled out of the gate again last...

Tuesday, April 2, 2024

Give your children the gift of financial literacy. They’ll thank you later! As a parent, you are well aware of your responsibility in helping your children grow up happy and healthy. Once they enter their teen years, the pressure can...

Monday, April 1, 2024

Stocks were narrowly higher in the last week of the first quarter as investors digested mixed economic news about consumer confidence. Despite the quiet, holiday-shortened week, all three of the major averages posted very solid gains...

Tuesday, March 26, 2024

As the presidential election race heats up, a common question on investors’ minds is, “How might the looming White House vote impact the markets?” Some may wonder if they should tweak their portfolios or sit tight...

Monday, March 25, 2024

Stocks posted their best week of the year, sparked by news that the dovish Fed decided to keep rates steady and signaled three rate cuts were still possible this year. Stocks Bounce Back As widely expected, the Fed left rates...

Monday, March 18, 2024

Stocks fell for the second straight week on inflation concerns despite a report on consumer prices that was initially well received by investors. Stocks Slide Tuesday was the only bright spot during the week as stock prices rose after...

Wednesday, March 13, 2024

As we continue through 2024, I wanted to share some data that many may find positive. Fidelity Investments just announced that 440,000 retirement savers reached an incredible milestone in 2023: $1 million in their 401(k).1 That's...

Monday, March 11, 2024

Stocks were down for the week as investors appeared to take some profits and traders parsed Fed Chair Jerome Powell’s Congressional testimony. Markets Wobble  Stocks had a rough start to the week, with the Dow, S&P 500, and...

Monday, March 4, 2024

Stocks extended their tech-led advance last week as signs of a resilient and still-enthusiastic consumer boosted momentum. Nasdaq Sets New High Stocks traded in a narrow band early in the week but ended the five-trading sessions with...

Monday, February 26, 2024

Stocks vaulted to new heights again last week on the back of an artificial intelligence (AI) semiconductor company, marking investors’ belief that AI has the potential to transform the U.S. economy. Stocks Rally to Record Highs...

Tuesday, February 20, 2024

Stocks fell last week as investors reacted to disappointing inflation updates and other economic reports that fell short of estimates. Stocks Snap Winning Streak Markets were quiet Monday but opened lower Tuesday in response to the...

Monday, February 12, 2024

Last week was yet another good one for markets. Thanks to robust corporate earnings reports and favorable inflation news, the S&P 500 index topped 5,000 for the first time in its history. The index has now ended higher in 14 out...

Friday, February 9, 2024

Money can be a touchy subject, especially regarding our closest relationships. Whether we like it or not, finance plays an integral role in our partnerships, families, and friendships. So, how can we foster healthy attitudes and...

Monday, February 5, 2024

Stocks pushed higher last week as investors cheered mega-cap tech corporate reports and a better-than-expected employment report. Stocks at New Highs At the beginning of the week, stocks surged, anticipating fourth-quarter corporate...

Thursday, February 1, 2024

In the ever-evolving financial landscape, staying informed about the latest changes and potential implications for your retirement savings is crucial. Shifts in retirement regulations define 2024, and we’re committed to keeping...

Monday, January 29, 2024

Stocks continued their upward climb last week as excitement around big tech persisted; positive economic reports stoked investors’ belief that the Federal Reserve has pulled off a soft landing. Stocks Power Ahead Big tech was...

Monday, January 22, 2024

Stocks finished higher last week, with big tech again leading amid lingering uncertainty over how continued economic strength could potentially influence the Fed's rate decisions moving forward. Stocks Dip, Then Rally  Stock...

Tuesday, January 16, 2024

Stocks pushed higher last week, led by big tech names and boosted by December inflation reports that were mixed but positive enough to shore up investor confidence in Fed rate cuts this year. Stocks Rock and Roll It was a rocky week...

Tuesday, January 9, 2024

With the start of the new year, we wanted to discuss a topic that will likely garner attention throughout 2024: the potential sunsetting of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) in 2025. Although some of the provisions within the TCJA are...

Monday, January 8, 2024

Stocks retreated in the first trading week of 2024, struggling a bit after a celebratory end to last year as investors second-guessed Fed signals and fretted over lingering inflation concerns. New Year Blues Stocks got off to a rough...

Thursday, December 28, 2023

Sharing a headline from The Economist published in November 2022: By now, we all know this didn’t happen. Markets and economies across the globe had banner years, despite the forecasted impending doom and gloom. Turns...

Tuesday, December 26, 2023

In the final weekly update of 2023, investor optimism propelled stocks higher last week as the Santa Claus rally arrived right on schedule.   The Dow Jones Industrial Average added 0.22%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500...

Wednesday, December 20, 2023

And I— I took the one less traveled by, And that has made all the difference. ~Robert Frost I think we can officially label 2023 as the year of the road less traveled. A year that opened with unprecedented negativity....

Monday, December 18, 2023

Markets across the board reacted positively last week to cooler inflation and the idea of potential rate cuts next year, adding to the gains of the market’s year-end rally.  The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 2.92%,...

Monday, December 11, 2023

A late-week, two-day rally left stocks higher, adding to November’s gains as the last month of trading for 2023 began. The Dow Jones Industrial Average was flat (+0.01%), while the Standard & Poor’s 500 gained 0.21%. The...

Monday, December 4, 2023

November capped off one of the best months for stocks in the last decade. Heading into December, a broad based Friday rally turned an otherwise mixed week for markets into a strong one. We are hopeful that this momentum will carry...

Monday, November 27, 2023

I hope you had a Happy Thanksgiving! Can you believe December starts this week? With five weeks to go in 2023, here's to hoping markets can continue their strength through yearend and onward into 2024. For now, here's last week's...

Wednesday, November 22, 2023

Over the weekend, my wife and I welcomed a daughter, Clare Marie Brennan, to our family. To coincide with the new addition to our family I am sharing some thoughts I’ve had on her and our new life together: First, an...

Monday, November 20, 2023

Markets extended their November rally last week as investors cheered lower-than-forecast inflation data. The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 1.94%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 added 2.24%. The Nasdaq Composite index rose...

Monday, November 13, 2023

A powerful Friday rally sent stocks higher last week and extended the market’s early November gains. Ahead lies another data heavy week with big reports on CPI, retail sales and industrial production alongside quarterly earnings...

Tuesday, November 7, 2023

After a tough end to October, stocks ripped higher to kick off the month of November as bond yields retreated due to signs of continued easing in inflation and a normalizing labor market.  The Dow Jones Industrial Average jumped 5...

Wednesday, November 1, 2023

While we haven’t yet said goodbye to 2023, it’s not too early to begin thinking about any tax changes that may be on the horizon. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) of 2017 was designed to overhaul the federal tax code by...

Monday, October 30, 2023

Stocks slumped during a busy week of corporate earnings reports as investors digested cautious forward earnings guidance, fears of higher long-term interest rates, and growing anxiety over the increasing supply of Treasury bonds and...

Monday, October 23, 2023

Rising bond yields and uncertainty over the path of future Fed rate hikes dragged markets lower last week despite strong corporate earnings reports from the 3rd quarter.  Markets look uneasy again to start the week as the US...

Wednesday, October 18, 2023

You may have heard the idea that the Federal Reserve is trying to “thread a needle” with the economy by raising interest rates to slow growth but not cause a recession. Well, we’re at crunch time with that plan....

Tuesday, October 17, 2023

SECURE 2.0: Changes Going Into Effect in 2024 Passed in 2019, the SECURE Act was the most substantial retirement legislation in over a decade. It contained important changes designed to help investors save more and be better prepared...

Monday, October 16, 2023

Markets ended mixed last week amid the outbreak of hostilities in the Middle East and higher-than-expected inflation data. The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 0.20%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 rose 0.45%. But the Nasdaq...

Monday, October 9, 2023

This week's update comes at the crossroads of two significant events--one economic, one geopolitical. Friday's strong jobs report signaled robust job creation continuing despite the constant drumbeat of economic negativity that seems...

Tuesday, October 3, 2023

Time to Think About Year-End Financial Strategies As we roll into fall and the fourth quarter, now is a good time to pause and reflect on proactive ways to set up your finances for 2024. Economically speaking, we are now in a much...

Monday, October 2, 2023

Can you believe today marks the start of the fourth quarter? 2024 here we come! Last week wrapped up a less-than-stellar September for global markets. Rising bond yields and government shutdown fears left stocks in mostly...

Wednesday, September 27, 2023

While artificial intelligence (AI) is making headlines today, the concept of "thinking machines" can be traced back to ancient philosophers and mathematicians. The phrase artificial intelligence was first used in the mid-20th century,...

Tuesday, September 26, 2023

Monday, September 25, 2023

Rising bond yields and fears of a government shutdown hammered stocks last week, with technology shares bearing the brunt of the retreat. The Dow Jones Industrial Average lost 1.89%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 dropped 2.93%...

Thursday, September 21, 2023

As many anticipated, the Federal Reserve held interest rates steady at its September policy meeting. The Fed had raised its benchmark federal funds rate at their July 2023 meeting to a range between 5.25% and 5.5%, a 22-year high. Fed...

Wednesday, September 20, 2023

But the years are short (part two!). My son turns two years old today. Still seems like yesterday we were packing an overnight bag enroute to the hospital. In 64 days (or thereabouts) we will re-pack that same overnight bag as we...

Monday, September 18, 2023

Stocks ended the week roughly where they began as investors digested a mixed set of new economic data. The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 0.12%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 slipped 0.16%. The Nasdaq Composite index fell...

Wednesday, September 13, 2023

Social Security, the program you may have spent a lifetime paying into, is designed to offer stability, supplemental income, and other valuable benefits that can play a role in your overall financial strategy after you retire. We've...

Monday, September 11, 2023

Concerns that the Fed may raise interest rates soured investor sentiment, sending stocks lower in a holiday-shortened trading week. The Dow Jones Industrial Average slipped 0.75%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 declined 1.29%....

Wednesday, September 6, 2023

If you ask the average investor which month is the most volatile for the stock market, they will probably say October. It's a reasonable answer, but it's incorrect. Despite October's reputation for market-defining events like the...

Tuesday, September 5, 2023

In this article, I am sharing an introduction to three of my favorite local restaurants!