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Monday, March 30, 2020

THE WEEK ON WALL STREET An open-ended commitment by the Federal Reserve to support American businesses and capital markets along with the passage of a $2 trillion aid package improved investor sentiment and drove a strong rally in...

 

Monday, March 23, 2020

To say that last week was a tough week on Wall Street would be akin to saying Michael Jordan was an okay basketball player. Through the end of the brutal week, the Dow Jones Industrial Average posted a huge loss of 17.3% to finish at...

 

Thursday, March 12, 2020

Although there is a significant financial component to leaving a lasting legacy, it encompasses so much more than just money. It’s easy to get stuck in a pattern of living life day by day, but your legacy isn’t something...

 

Tuesday, March 10, 2020

We delayed sending this commentary until today as we wanted to see the market’s behavior and close yesterday and how it opened again this morning. Yesterday, the S&P 500 closed down 7.6% to 2,746.56 as investors punished...

 

Monday, March 2, 2020

LAST WEEK ON WALL STREET There was no place to hide as the stock market suffered its worst week since the 2008 financial crisis as fears over the coronavirus and its negative impact on the global economy rocked investor sentiment to...

 

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Monday, February 24, 2020

Your regularly scheduled update has been cancelled in order to address the large drawdown this morning in the futures market due to worries about the spread of coronavirus. This morning, at least at the open, the Dow Jones and S&P 500...

 

Wednesday, February 19, 2020

What the SECURE Act Means for Your Retirement On December 20th, 2019, the Setting Every Community Up for Retirement Enhancement (SECURE) Act became law. As the name implies, this law intends to make it easier for Americans to save for...

 

Wednesday, February 19, 2020

THE WEEK ON WALL STREET The markets were closed Monday for President’s Day. Daily headlines about the coronavirus had little impact on stock market averages last week. Earnings and mergers had more influence. All three Wall...

 

Monday, February 3, 2020

“I wish I had an answer to that, because I’m tired of answering that question.” – Yogi Berra WHAT A DIFFERENCE A YEAR MAKES The market limped into 2019 following the worst year for stocks since the 2008...

 

Monday, January 27, 2020

THE WEEK ON WALL STREET Stock prices fell last week as investors considered the potential health and economic risks of the flu-like coronavirus. Foreign stock markets, as tracked by the broad MSCI EAFE index, fell 1.03% for the week....

 

Tuesday, January 21, 2020

THE WEEK ON WALL STREET Traders were in an upbeat mood last week, reacting to news out of Washington: the signing of the phase-one trade deal between the U.S. and China as well as the Senate passage of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement...

 

Tuesday, January 14, 2020

THE WEEK ON WALL STREET The market had a choppy five days, with traders reacting to geopolitical developments and weaker-than-expected jobs data. Even so, the three major U.S. equity indices posted weekly gains and continued their...

 

Monday, January 6, 2020

THE WEEK ON WALL STREET Stocks descended from record highs Friday, as traders reacted to a U.S. drone strike that killed Iran’s top military officer. Oil prices rose more than 3% following the breaking news. Wall Street...

 

Monday, December 23, 2019

From our family to yours, we wish you the very best the season has to offer. May you enjoy peace, love and good health in the year ahead. Thank you for allowing us to serve you. It is an honor we cherish each day.

 

Tuesday, December 17, 2019

THE WEEK ON WALL STREET The U.S. and China announced a limited trade agreement last week. That news lifted U.S. and foreign stocks, leading to weekly gains. Advancing 0.91% on the week, the Nasdaq Composite outperformed the S&P 500...

 

Monday, December 9, 2019

THE WEEK ON WALL STREET Key Wall Street benchmarks were up and down last week – or rather down and then up. A Tuesday retreat was offset by a Friday rally spurred by the Department of Labor’s November jobs report. While...

 

Monday, November 25, 2019

First, just a bit of housekeeping. As you may have heard in the news, Charles Schwab and TD Ameritrade have reached an agreement for Schwab to acquire TD Ameritrade. The combined company will retain the Schwab name, and will reflect...

 

Monday, November 18, 2019

THE WEEK ON WALL STREET Stock benchmarks were little changed for much of last week, but a rally occurred Friday after news broke that the U.S. and China could be closing in on the first phase of a new trade pact. At Friday’s...

 

Monday, November 11, 2019

THE WEEK ON WALL STREET Domestic and international stocks rose last week. Risk appetite outweighed concerns about the state of U.S.-China trade discussions. The Dow Jones Industrial Average, Nasdaq Composite, S&P 500, and MSCI EAFE...

 

Monday, November 4, 2019

THE WEEK ON WALL STREET A better-than-forecast jobs report prompted a stock market rally Friday, two days after traders witnessed another interest rate cut by the Federal Reserve. Both the S&P 500 and Nasdaq Composite ended the week...

 

Monday, October 28, 2019

THE WEEK ON WALL STREET The S&P 500 came within 0.1% of a record close Friday. Stocks were lifted last week by positive news on U.S.-China trade negotiations, plus earnings announcements. The Nasdaq Composite posted the largest weekly...

 

Monday, October 21, 2019

                                      

 

Tuesday, October 8, 2019

THE WEEK ON WALL STREET The fourth quarter started with a mixed week for equities. A slip for an index of U.S. manufacturing activity proved to be a market mover, more so than the latest jobs report. The Dow Jones Industrial Average...

 

Monday, September 30, 2019

THE WEEK ON WALL STREET Stocks retreated last week. Traders worried that the formal impeachment inquiry of President Donald Trump might distract White House officials from their pursuit of a trade deal with China and shift the focus...

 

Monday, September 9, 2019

THE WEEK ON WALL STREET Stocks rose last week, with help from two developments: the announcement of further U.S.-China trade talks as well as August hiring and manufacturing numbers that seemed to bolster the argument for a rate cut...

 

Tuesday, September 3, 2019

It looks like those of us in central Florida dodged a bullet with hurricane Dorian. However, those along the east coast are still not out of the woods and we send you our prayers for an uneventful next few days. If our office can be...

 

Thursday, August 29, 2019

It's that time of year again, so we thought we would share some tips on how you can keep your family safe and healthy before, during and after a storm. Insurance Tips What you should do now: 1. Take pictures of your property outside...

 

Monday, August 26, 2019

LAST WEEK ON WALL STREET Traders assumed that the week’s biggest news event would be Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell’s speech at the annual Jackson Hole banking conference. Instead, China seized the headlines by...

 

Monday, August 19, 2019

THE WEEK ON WALL STREET Volatility continued to hold center court in a big way last week as stocks took a wallop mid-week after a temporary inversion in the yield curve. The U.S. - China trade dispute played a large part in the major...

 

Monday, August 12, 2019

THE WEEK ON WALL STREET Stocks spent much of last week rebounding from a Monday drop that reflected nervousness about the U.S.-China trade fight. By Thursday’s closing bell, the S&P 500 had regained all its Monday losses, but it...

 

Tuesday, August 6, 2019

During the past week, stock prices dropped sharply on fears the trade dispute between the U.S. and China had escalated. Investors woke to the news on Monday that the People’s Bank of China had manipulated its currency, allowing...

 

Monday, July 29, 2019

THE WEEK ON WALL STREET Last week, investors assessed earnings and the initial estimate of second-quarter economic growth, while awaiting the Federal Reserve’s next announcement about interest rates. Stocks rose for the week;...

 

Tuesday, July 23, 2019

THE WEEK ON WALL STREET Stock benchmarks retreated during the first week of the second-quarter earnings season. As some big names shared quarterly results, investors seemed more interested in what might happen at the Federal...

 

Monday, July 15, 2019

THE WEEK ON WALL STREET Friday, the S&P 500 settled above 3,000 for the first time, after rising 0.78% for the week. The Dow Jones Industrial Average chalked up a milestone of its own: the blue chips ended the week above 27,000,...

 

Thursday, July 11, 2019

It's that time of year again, so we thought we would share some tips on how you can keep your family safe and healthy before, during and after a storm. How to prepare before the storm Once you find out the storm is heading your way,...

 

Tuesday, July 9, 2019

THE WEEK ON WALL STREET U.S. stock benchmarks opened a new quarter positively. The S&P 500, Dow Jones Industrial Average, the Nasdaq all gained in the opening week of July. Overseas, stocks in developed markets, tracked by...

 

Monday, June 24, 2019

The commentary this week is somewhat brief as I am traveling. The remainder of the week I will have limited access to email and telephone. If you need anything, please contact the office and one of my colleagues will help you. THE...

 

Monday, June 17, 2019

THE WEEK ON WALL STREET Stocks advanced for a second straight week. The S&P 500 benchmark rose 0.47%; the Nasdaq Composite, 0.70%; the Dow Jones Industrial Average, 0.41%. Overseas shares, as tracked by the MSCI EAFE developed markets...

 

Monday, June 10, 2019

In this week’s recap: the blue chips have their best week of 2019, as investors like what they hear from the head of the Federal Reserve and interpret the latest monthly employment numbers. THE WEEK ON WALL STREET Following a...

 

Tuesday, June 4, 2019

Stocks took a big hit in May as the trade war with China continued and a new one with Mexico seemed to come out of nowhere. The fear is that trade wars will hurt the U.S. economy over time. As the bell rang to end the final round of...

 

Tuesday, May 28, 2019

In this week’s recap: stocks decline as Wall Street adjusts its expectations about the potential duration of the U.S.-China trade dispute, and some retail giants post first-quarter earnings. THE WEEK ON WALL STREET Stocks...

 

Monday, May 20, 2019

THE WEEK ON WALL STREET Stocks fell sharply at the start of last week over trade tensions, then recovered with help from strong earnings and indications that U.S.-China trade talks would continue. Even so, the major indices had a down...

 

Wednesday, May 8, 2019

First, a little housekeeping. Over the past few months we've experimented a little with going from more frequent email updates to longer, more robust monthly updates. While I have no real preference, I know it can sometimes be...

 

Monday, April 8, 2019

Macro OverviewA change in the Federal Reserve’s stance on the direction of interest rates helped buoyequity and bond prices higher in March, allowing U.S. equity indices to post the strongestfirst quarter in nearly ten years. The...

 

Monday, March 11, 2019

Macro Overview - March 2019 U.S. equities continued to defy negative sentiment and sanguine market readings as tepid economic data advanced stocks higher in February. Equities posted their best first two months of the year since 1991,...

 

Wednesday, February 13, 2019

Welcome to the new format mentioned in our last update. As discussed, we have revamped this commentary going forward. Some weeks it feels like there isn’t much to report and we find ourselves looking for something to say. As we...

 

Monday, January 28, 2019

For the first time in months, U.S. markets experienced little movement last week. The Dow and NASDAQ did have their 5th week of gains in a row, but their increases were small: 0.12% and 0.11%, respectively. Meanwhile, the S&P 500...

 

Tuesday, January 22, 2019

Last week was another strong showing for the S&P500 in 2019. In fact, so far, there have only been 3 negatives closes for the year. The last time we saw the markets start this strong was… oh yeah, last year. Then, in February,...

 

Tuesday, January 15, 2019

“Politics is supposed to be the second oldest profession. I have come to the realization that it bears a close resemblance to the first.” -- Ronald Reagan Market Update I hope everyone had a wonderful holiday season....

 

Monday, January 7, 2019

Happy New Year! This is the first full week of trading for the year – so back to work! Markets are trying to shake off the December 2018 hangover. Last week’s first trading week sure made it interesting. The big news was...

 

Tuesday, December 18, 2018

Last week brought more volatility to the markets. While domestic indexes had some rallies as positive trade news emerged earlier in the week, by Friday, December 14, they had erased any gains. The last time major U.S. indexes ended in...

 

Monday, December 10, 2018

Markets went for another wild ride last week, as major domestic indexes swung back and forth. By Friday, December 7, markets had posted their worst weekly performance since March—and the S&P 500 and Dow both moved into negative...

 

Monday, December 3, 2018

U.S. markets ended a volatile month on a high note Friday. All three major indices posted increases for the week, buoyed by news from the Fed Reserve and international trade. To better understand last week’s sharp rebound,...

 

Tuesday, November 27, 2018

Last week was a tough one for markets. The S&P 500 dropped 3.79% and experienced its worst results during a Thanksgiving week since 1939. While the index officially entered correction territory on Friday, it closed 10.2% below its most...

 

Monday, November 19, 2018

Markets experienced more volatility last week, as perspectives on trade, tech, and retail pulled investor sentiment back and forth. Although domestic indexes were up on Friday, November 16, they still posted losses for the week. In...

 

Monday, November 12, 2018

Markets posted gains last week after struggling for the month of October. What drove market performance last week? We received a fair amount of data and reports, with the following details holding particular weight for investors:...

 

Monday, November 5, 2018

Markets posted gains last week after struggling for the month of October. What drove market performance last week? We received a fair amount of data and reports, with the following details holding particular weight for investors:...

 

Monday, October 29, 2018

As I prepared for this week’s commentary, I reviewed various economic indicators I follow and then took a few minutes to read commentary from “pundits” and news sources. The realization I came to after reviewing...

 

Monday, October 22, 2018

Stock performance was mixed last week as investors considered the impact of interest rates, international affairs and corporate earnings. While the final weekly results showed relatively little growth or loss, the week included some...

 

Tuesday, October 9, 2018

Although new data continued to show strength in the U.S. economy, markets stumbled across the globe last week. While U.S. and international stocks followed similar paths last week, data is beginning to show that our economic outlooks...

 

Monday, October 1, 2018

Friday, September 28, was the last trading day in 2018’s 3rd quarter. Weekly numbers revealed mixed performances: the S&P 500 slipped 0.54%, the Dow fell 1.07%, and the NASDAQ gained 0.74%. Internationally, the MSCI EAFE dropped...

 

Tuesday, September 18, 2018

Markets across the board were positive last week on slightly lower than anticipated inflation data. This means the market doesn’t expect the Fed to have to raise interest rates any faster than their current measured pace. The...

 

Monday, September 10, 2018

Domestic markets fell last week due to negative trade news and declining tech stocks, with the S&P 500 and Dow both breaking their multi-week winning streaks. Meanwhile, the NASDAQ posted losses for 4 days in a row for the first time...

 

Tuesday, September 4, 2018

Trade continued to dominate the news last week and cause market volatility as investors monitored discussions of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) and tension with China. While Mexico and the U.S. reached a new trade...

 

Monday, August 27, 2018

Last week marked a noteworthy milestone in our economy: On Wednesday, August 22, the bull market entered its 3,453rd day, the longest such run in U.S. history. In the past 9 plus years, domestic indexes have come quite a way since the...

 

Tuesday, August 21, 2018

Challenges in emerging markets affected both U.S. and global stock performance last week, with the S&P 500 experiencing several down days. By market close on Friday, however, two of the three major domestics posted gains for the week....

 

Tuesday, August 14, 2018

Stocks ended last week in mixed territory as trouble with Turkey’s currency affected U.S. equity performance on Friday, August 10. For the week, the S&P lost 0.25%, the Dow declined 0.59%, and the NASDAQ increased 0.35%....

 

Monday, August 6, 2018

Domestic markets ended last week in positive territory, while international stocks were in the red. Once again, trade and corporate earnings were in the news last week. We learned that the U.S. is considering increasing tariffs on $200...

 

Monday, July 30, 2018

Markets experienced a push-and-pull last week between data indicating strong economic growth and lagging performance from several tech stocks’ earnings reports. Domestic indexes had mixed results, as the S&P 500 gained 0.61%,...

 

Monday, July 23, 2018

On Friday, July 20, stocks lost a small amount of ground after President Trump escalated his threats of increasing tariffs on China. However, strong quarterly earnings reports from several large companies helped provide balance in the...

 

Monday, July 9, 2018

Domestic stocks only traded for 4 days last week, due to the Independence Day holiday. In that time, all 3 major domestic indexes posted positive results for the week. Once again, trade and tariffs were a major topic on many...

 

Monday, July 2, 2018

International trade concerns continue to create uncertainty in markets around the world. Despite the markets’ slight rises on Friday, June 29, they recorded losses for the week. The S&P 500 fell 1.33%, the Dow gave back 1.26%,...

 

Monday, June 25, 2018

Stocks stumbled across the globe last week as trade tensions continued to escalate. Despite rebounding somewhat on Friday, the S&P 500 experienced its first weekly loss in a month, and the Dow posted its worst week since March. The S&P...

 

Monday, June 18, 2018

Click here to see the brief tutorial on blockchain technology. Kind regards,

 

Monday, June 11, 2018

As last week ended, tension between the U.S. and some of its greatest allies was on the rise. Trade remained a hot-button topic ahead of the G-7 meeting in Canada, but investors seemed largely unfazed by the drama. While geopolitical...

 

Monday, May 21, 2018

Major domestic indexes went down last week after all three gained more than 2% the previous week. The S&P 500 dropped 0.54%, the Dow gave back 0.47%, and the NASDAQ lost 0.66%. International stocks also stumbled; the MSCI EAFE...

 

Monday, May 14, 2018

Last week may have been the break-out traders have been looking for as major indexes finished positive for the week. After several months of correction it looks like the 200-day moving average for the S&P500 is likely to hold support....

 

Monday, May 7, 2018

Domestic indexes posted strong results on Friday, May 4, as the latest labor report data lessened investors’ concerns about inflation and interest rates. Nonetheless, stocks had mixed results last week. The S&P 500 dropped 0.24%...

 

Tuesday, May 1, 2018

We just finished the busiest week of 1st quarter earnings season, and although many companies shared positive results, stock indexes experienced modest declines. The S&P 500 lost 0.01%, the Dow dropped 0.62%, and the NASDAQ gave back...

 

Wednesday, April 25, 2018

Stocks posted moderate gains last week, as the S&P 500 added 0.52%, the Dow increased 0.42%, and the NASDAQ rose 0.56%. International stocks in the MSCI EAFE followed suit, gaining 0.41%. We received numerous new data updates last...

 

Wednesday, April 18, 2018

Market volatility continues. Stocks slid on Friday, April 13, but still held on to gains for the week. Similar to recent weeks, international events continued to sway markets: Concerns about trade disputes affected investor behavior....

 

Thursday, April 12, 2018

Traditional and Roth IRA contributions for 2017 can be made until April 17th. If you or a loved one need help with any last minute deposits, give us a call.

 

Tuesday, April 3, 2018

Markets were closed on March 30 for Good Friday, but in the four days of trading, stocks recovered some of this year’s losses. For the week, the S&P 500 added 2.09%, the Dow gained 2.67%, and the NASDAQ increased by 1.03%....

 

Tuesday, March 27, 2018

Markets experienced significant declines last week. The S&P 500 lost 5.95%, the Dow dropped 5.66%, and the NASDAQ declined 6.54%. With these losses, all 3 domestic indexes had their worst weekly performance in more than 2 years....

 

Wednesday, March 14, 2018

GOLDILOCKS RETURNS Domestic stocks leapt ahead last week as the latest jobs report inspired renewed confidence in our economic standing. In addition to solid stock growth last week also brought a significant milestone in the markets:...

 

Tuesday, March 6, 2018

Last week introduced a new variable into the analysis: Not surprisingly, the markets declined. The bigger question is, now what? We are seeing another drop this morning. The question is, will the 100-day moving average on the S&P 500...

 

Tuesday, February 27, 2018

Last week, the Presidents’ Day holiday meant markets were only open for 4 trading days, and during that time, we received comparatively few economic reports. Nonetheless, major domestic indexes showed considerable volatility and...

 

Monday, February 5, 2018

After 4 straight weeks of gains, the markets have slipped. As of Friday, the S&P 500 lost 3.85%, the Dow dropped 4.12%, and the NASDAQ decreased by 3.53%. International stocks in the MSCI EAFE also took a 2.78% hit. Domestically, the...

 

Monday, January 22, 2018

This week it’s politics as usual, as the temper tantrum of partisanship has the Federal Government shut down. While this will have a temporary muting effect on the markets, it will likely be minimal in nature. Odds are this...

 

Tuesday, January 16, 2018

Domestic markets continued their strong start to 2018, posting gains across the board for their 2nd week. The S&P 500 added 1.57% and closed at a new record high on Friday. The index just posted its best 10-day beginning to a year...

 

Tuesday, January 9, 2018

Last week was the strongest start to the stock market in over a decade (since 2006). The question on everyone’s mind: Can it last? Well, the markets may be slightly ahead of themselves in the very short term (meaning we could see...

 

Tuesday, January 2, 2018

As we kick off the new year, it’s a short week before the next earnings season gets rolling. Oil has climbed above $60 a barrel. Perhaps the biggest story will be the same story we’ve had for the last few years: the Fed....

 

Tuesday, December 19, 2017

Domestic markets were up last week as tax reform became more likely. On Friday, multiple previously undecided Senators announced they would back the combined House and Senate bill, and stocks reacted by hitting new record highs. For...

 

Wednesday, November 15, 2017

After posting gains each week since September, U.S. stocks declined by market’s close on Friday. The S&P 500 and Dow ended their longest stretch of weekly increases since 2013, and the NASDAQ ended its own 6-week streak. By...

 

Tuesday, November 7, 2017

The markets ended the week in positive territory—and all 3 major domestic indexes hit new record highs. The S&P 500 added 0.26%, and the Dow was up 0.45%, with both indexes notching their 8th straight week of growth. The NASDAQ...

 

Friday, November 3, 2017

Last Thursday evening, the senate passed the blueprint for a $4 trillion budget. The vote sets the stage for a tax overhaul that could lower taxes for many families and businesses. In addition, some investors believe the promise of...

 

Monday, October 2, 2017

Before we begin our usual weekly commentary, we wanted to take a moment to honor the victims of Sunday’s terrible attack in Las Vegas. Though details are still scarce, it is the most devastating mass shooting in U.S. history. Our...

 

Monday, September 25, 2017

I miss the days when Presidents were presidential, athletes were known for their playmaking abilities and Twitter was just something for Paris Hilton and the Kardashians to promote whatever it is they promote. Ah, the good old days....

 

Tuesday, September 19, 2017

After briefly stumbling the week of September 4, domestic indexes notched significant gains last week and hit record highs. By Friday, the S&P 500 exceeded 2,500 for the first time, the Dow closed at its highest level ever, and the...

 

Tuesday, September 12, 2017

Like many of you, we are without power in our homes. Fortunately, our office sustained no damage and we have power. My home saw no damage other than lots of tree limbs and debris and some fencing blown apart. Please keep Liz in your...

 

Thursday, September 7, 2017

We have a very abbreviated market update this week. I decided it would be more productive to address the North Korea situation. Let’s keep it simple. There’s significant up-side resistance for the S&P 500 at 2,500 and...

 

Tuesday, August 29, 2017

MARKETS SEESAW BACK & FORTH Its that time of the year. As we've mentioned in several of the updates August and September tend to be those months of the year where market volatility picks up. After several weekly losses, the major...

 

Monday, August 7, 2017

SUPPORT, RESISTANCE & STRESS With markets being well into the ‘meat’ of earnings season, let’s talk technical numbers. For the S&P 500, the big question is: will we or won’t we break 2500? Of course we...

 

Monday, July 31, 2017

Generally strong corporate earnings reports helped markets continue to hit highs. The majority of companies that have posted Q2 earnings so far have beaten their estimates. Those earnings performances helped push financials, materials...

 

Thursday, July 6, 2017

As Q2 ended, markets hit a six-week volatility high. While the tech sector declined during the week, consumer discretionary and industrial sectors drove stocks higher on Friday. On Friday, the tech-heavy NASDAQ slumped 1.99%. The S&P...

 

Tuesday, May 23, 2017

Early last week, both the S&P and NASDAQ recorded all time highs (2405 on the S&P 500) before tumbling along with the Dow as political concerns rose. By Friday, though, the markets had largely rebounded and steadied. The S&P 500...

 

Tuesday, May 16, 2017

Markets tuned out noise from Washington last week and continued to focus on economic fundamentals. Mildly rebounding retail sales and strong consumer sentiment seem to point toward a modestly stronger second quarter. From a technical...

 

Monday, May 8, 2017

We have an abbreviated market update this week. Much of the mystery is off the board now. The DJIA closed above 21,000. The S&P500 closed at 2399 and change. The NASDAQ closed over 6200. The French election turned out as expected. Oil...

 

Tuesday, April 18, 2017

Last week, major indexes experienced losses for the second week in a row, with the S&P 500 falling 1.21%, the Dow giving back 1.01%, the NASDAQ dropping 1.26%, and the MSCI EAFE declining 0.14%. However, as of this writing the markets...

 

Tuesday, March 7, 2017

The uptrend in the markets finally took a break last week. After a series of new highs it looks like a pause may be in order. As previously discussed, markets appear to be technically overbought at this time. The question is, are we...

 

Wednesday, February 22, 2017

Another week, another round of record highs. Despite concerns about how France’s upcoming presidential election could affect the European Union’s stability, U.S. stocks ended the week up yet again. The S&P 500 gained 1.51%,...

 

Monday, February 6, 2017

Political headlines continued to fill the news last week, and while domestic markets declined during mid-week trading, they rebounded on Friday, February 3. Overall, the week showed only modest movement, as the S&P 500 added 0.12%, the...

 

Monday, January 30, 2017

After a brief pause during inauguration week, stocks continued to climb last week. The S&P 500 added 1.03%, the NASDAQ was up 1.90%, and the MSCI EAFE increased by 1.29%. The Dow also grew, adding 1.34%, ending the week above while...

 

Wednesday, January 25, 2017

A new presidential era began last Friday with Donald Trump’s inauguration, and the market reaction was far more restrained than its response to his election. For weeks after the presidential election, we saw markets defy...

 

Tuesday, January 10, 2017

To say that 2017 has started differently than 2016 would be an understatement. This time last year, we ended the week with all three indexes dropping at least 5.96% on fears about China’s economy. The first trading week of 2017...

 

Wednesday, January 4, 2017

Looking back on the final trading week of a very eventful year, we saw low volume and a break from the recent rallies for domestic indexes. While international stocks in the MSCI EAFE added 0.56%, all major U.S. indexes declined. The...

 

Tuesday, January 3, 2017

As 2016 draws to a close we thank you for continued trust and confidence. We wish you the very best in the new year and look forward to making 2017 a great year. In the last full trading week of 2016, domestic markets were relatively...

 

Tuesday, December 20, 2016

Last week was mixed for the markets, as the Dow increased by 0.44%, while the S&P 500 lost 0.06%, the NASDAQ dropped 0.13%, and the MSCI EAFE gave back 0.55%. We also saw a variety of data released, giving a similarly mixed view of...

 

Monday, December 5, 2016

After a three-week run where all major U.S. indexes posted significant gains, we saw more mixed results last week. The Dow was up 0.10%, but the S&P 500 lost 0.97% and the NASDAQ was down 2.65%. The MSCI EAFE’s measure of...

 

Wednesday, November 30, 2016

During a week while many were thankful, the markets gave us much to be thankful for. Through the four-day trading week, the Dow gained 1.51%, the S&P 500 was up 1.44%, the NASDAQ added 1.45%, and the MSCI EAFE increased 1.26%. U.S....

 

Wednesday, November 23, 2016

First, we hope you and your family have a wonderful Thanksgiving. We all have much to be thankful for! For the second straight week, the major domestic indexes all ended in positive territory: The S&P 500 was up 0.81%, the Dow...

 

Monday, November 7, 2016

We’re in the middle of an interesting moment for the markets, where short-term volatility and uncertainty might lead you to believe that the economy is faltering. After all, the major stock indexes lost ground last week, with...

 

Monday, February 1, 2016

Stocks experienced another volatile week with high daily swings in value. Despite the lingering uncertainty, stocks ended the week higher on the back of better-than-expected earnings reports and higher oil prices. For the week, the...

 

Monday, January 25, 2016

After a volatile week, markets regained some steam, helped by a recovery in oil prices and some upbeat earnings reports. For the week, the S&P 500 gained 1.41%, the Dow grew 0.66%, and the NASDAQ added 2.29%.[1] Though the headwinds...

 

Tuesday, January 19, 2016

Stocks closed down again Friday ahead of the long holiday weekend after disappointing earnings, more China worries, and plunging oil prices added to fears about slowing global growth. For the week, the S&P 500 dropped 2.17%, the Dow...

 

Monday, January 11, 2016

U.S. equities experienced a brutal tumble last week after more bad news emerged from China. For the week, the S&P 500 lost 5.96%, the Dow dropped 6.19%, and the NASDAQ fell 7.26%.[1] China's ongoing economic woes are causing major...

 

Monday, January 4, 2016

Now that 2015 is in the rear-view mirror, let's take a look at some of the factors that influenced markets last year. Though markets closed essentially flat, it's important to realize what a small miracle that is, given the many...

 

Monday, December 28, 2015

Markets ended the holiday week on an upbeat note, giving stocks their best week since late November.[1] For the week, the S&P 500 gained 2.76%, the Dow Jones grew 2.47%, and the NASDAQ rose 2.55%.[2] On the economic front, final data...

 

Monday, December 21, 2015

They say a picture says a thousand words. So, the picture above pretty much sums up our markets right now. The bulls and bears seem to be at an impasse. They have been all year. There seems to be very little gas in the tank left to...

 

Monday, December 14, 2015

Markets ended a volatile week sharply down after oil hit near-seven-year lows and a major corporate merger highlighted global growth woes. For the week, the S&P 500 fell 3.79%, the Dow dropped 3.26%, and the NASDAQ lost 4.06%.[1]...

 

Tuesday, December 8, 2015

Markets shrugged off a volatile week Friday to close positive, buoyed by a strong jobs report and an easing of uncertainty around the Federal Reserve's next interest rate decision. For the week, the S&P 500 grew 0.08%, the Dow gained...

 

Monday, November 30, 2015

Stocks closed out the short week mixed on very low volume as investors stayed home for the holidays. For the week, the S&P 500 grew 0.04%, the Dow lost 0.14%, and the NASDAQ gained 0.44%.[1] The data we got last week suggests that the...

 

Monday, November 23, 2015

The major averages ended last week on a high note despite ongoing concerns about terrorism. Investors kept their cool and gave the S&P 500 its best week of the year.[1] For the week, the S&P 500 gained 3.27%, the Dow rose 3.35%, and...

 

Monday, November 16, 2015

Markets gave up gains last week and closed lower, ending the worst week since mid-August. Nerves about a possible December rate hike and faltering commodity prices contributed to selling pressure. For the week, the S&P 500 lost 3.63%,...

 

Monday, November 9, 2015

Markets ended last week on a high note, marking the sixth straight week of gains and the longest winning streak for the major averages since late 2014.[1] For the week, the S&P 500 grew 0.95%, the Dow gained 1.40%, and the NASDAQ grew...

 

Monday, November 2, 2015

Facing down another government shutdown, the House and Senate passed a new budget deal last week that suspends the debt limit until 2017 and increases funding levels for a number of federal programs. President Obama is expected to...

 

Monday, October 26, 2015

Stocks rallied again last week on a strong Tech sector showing, bringing the S&P 500 back close to where it was before the dramatic drop in late August. At this level the market appears to be severely overbought and we expect at least...

 

Monday, October 19, 2015

Stocks ended last week on a strong note as markets increased on the possibility that the Fed won't raise rates this year. For the week, the S&P 500 gained 0.90%, the Dow grew 0.77%, and the NASDAQ rose 1.16%.[1]So far, earnings season...

 

Monday, October 12, 2015

Stocks ended last week on a strong note, regaining some lost ground and giving the S&P 500 its best week of the year. However, the major indices are still negative for the year and there is STRONG resistance overhead at 2050.Markets...

 

Monday, October 5, 2015

Stocks ended the final days of the third quarter on a positive note, even though stocks were still down for the quarter. For the week, the S&P 500 gained 1.04%, the Dow added 0.97%, and the NASDAQ grew 0.45%.[1]After hovering around...

 

Monday, September 28, 2015

Stocks continued their rollercoaster ride last week, dogged by worries from Washington and a plunge in biotechs that pushed the major indexes lower. For the week, the S&P 500 lost 1.36%, the Dow fell 0.43%, and the NASDAQ dropped 2.92%...

 

Monday, September 21, 2015

Uncertainty about the Federal Reserve's decision on interest rates weighed on markets last week, pushing the Dow and the S&P lower. For the week, the S&P 500 lost 0.15%, the Dow fell 0.29%, while the NASDAQ gained 0.10%.[1]On Thursday,...

 

Monday, September 14, 2015

Stocks rebounded during the holiday-shortened week as gains in overseas stock markets spurred buying activity, giving the Dow its best week since March. Despite the buying pressure, investors curbed their enthusiasm ahead of the...

 

Wednesday, September 9, 2015

Stocks slid after another turbulent week, buffeted by more worries about China. Investors chose to remain cautious ahead of the long Labor Day weekend and a raft of fresh data out of China. For the week, the S&P 500 lost 3.40%, the Dow...

 

Monday, August 31, 2015

It's hard to watch your portfolio value fluctuate, especially when the money involved represents a lifetime of hard work and a comfortable future. If you're at or nearing retirement, you might be feeling especially emotional about...

 

Monday, August 24, 2015

U.S. stocks ended a defensive week in the red as investor sentiment deteriorated in the face of fresh worries out of China. For the week, the S&P 500 fell 5.77%, the Dow lost 5.82%, and the NASDAQ slid 6.78%.[1When markets take a dive,...

 

Monday, August 17, 2015

Despite significant volatility, stocks ended last week higher after a finalized Greek bailout deal and some upbeat domestic economic data. For the week, the S&P 500 gained 0.67%, the Dow grew 0.60%, and the NASDAQ added 0.09%.[1]Greece...

 

Monday, August 10, 2015

Stocks gave in to gloom about low global oil prices and fell again last week, erasing the previous week's gains. For the week, the S&P 500 lost 1.25%, the Dow fell 1.79%, and the NASDAQ dropped 1.65%.[1]Domestically, the data looks...

 

Monday, August 3, 2015

Stocks snapped their losing streak and regained steam last week despite some soft data, posting weekly and monthly gains. For the week, the S&P 500 gained 1.16%, the Dow rose 0.69%, and the NASDAQ grew 0.78%.[1]July was a volatile...

 

Monday, July 27, 2015

Stocks were unable to maintain the momentum and gave up ground in another roller coaster week. Though earnings week marched onward, investors seemed more concerned about global growth and falling commodity prices. For the week, the S&P...

 

Monday, July 20, 2015

Stocks surged in an action-packed week, giving the NASDAQ two record closes in a row. For the week, the S&P 500 gained 2.41%, the Dow rose 1.84%, and the NASDAQ soared 4.25%.[1]Investors around the world breathed a sigh of relief when...

 

Monday, July 13, 2015

Markets finally broke the losing streak, closing up for the week as worries about Greece and China faded. For the week, the S&P 500 gained 0.88%, the Dow rose 1.11%, and the NASDAQ grew 0.69%.[1]Though a deal with Greece wasn't reached...

 

Monday, July 6, 2015

Markets lost ground again last week after Greece technically defaulted on loan payments and edged closer to an exit from the Euro. For the week, the S&P 500 dropped 1.29%, the Dow lost 1.24%, and the NASDAQ fell 1.92%.[1]What...

 

Tuesday, June 30, 2015

Markets lost ground last week, giving in to nerves about Greece and some early second-quarter earnings reports. For the week, the S&P 500 dropped 0.40%, the Dow fell 0.37%, and the NASDAQ lost 0.71%.[1]Crumbling Greek debt talks were...

 

Monday, June 22, 2015

The Federal Reserve wrapped up its June meeting on Wednesday surprising no one with the announcement that the central bank will keep rates at zero percent for a while longer. Though the Fed appears to be confident that the economy is...

 

Monday, June 15, 2015

Markets ended last week mixed, falling on Friday as concerns about the debt impasse in Greece outweighed upbeat domestic data. For the week, the S&P 500 gained 0.06%, the Dow grew 0.28%, and the NASDAQ fell 0.34%.[1]So, what's going on...

 

Tuesday, June 9, 2015

Markets ended lower last week as investors balanced an optimistic jobs report against renewed concerns about a Greek debt default. For the week, the S&P 500 lost 0.69%, the Dow fell 0.90%, and the NASDAQ slid 0.03%.[1]On Friday, we got...

 

Monday, June 1, 2015

U.S. markets ended the week on a down note as investors struggled with weak economic data and concerns about Greek debt negotiations. However, markets were able to end the month of May in the black. For the week, the S&P 500 lost 0.88%...

 

Tuesday, May 26, 2015

Despite flirting with new records, markets weren't able to hold on to gains last week and closed mixed after comments about interest rates were made by Federal Reserve Chair Janet Yellen. For the week, the S&P 500 gained 0.16%, the Dow...

 

Tuesday, May 26, 2015

Despite flirting with new records, markets weren't able to hold on to gains last week and closed mixed after comments about interest rates were made by Federal Reserve Chair Janet Yellen. For the week, the S&P 500 gained 0.16%, the Dow...

 

Tuesday, May 19, 2015

Months of tepid economic data and flirtation with higher interest rates lead many to askWhat's going on with the economy, and how will it affect the Federal Reserve's interest rate decision?The Fed, which has kept interest rates low to...

 

Monday, May 11, 2015

In this week's commentary, we want to draw your attention to a significant market anniversary. Five years ago, on May 6, 2010, the U.S. stock market experienced a "flash crash" when the Dow Jones Industrial Average plummeted nearly 1...

 

Tuesday, May 5, 2015

Markets fell last week as investors digested lukewarm economic data and considered future economic growth prospects. However, stocks bounced back on Friday and trimmed their losses. For the week, the S&P 500 lost 0.44%, the Dow slid 0...

 

Monday, April 27, 2015

Markets rallied last week, lead by a surge in tech stocks that brought the NASDAQ and S&P 500 to new record closes. For the week, the S&P 500 gained 1.75%, the Dow grew 1.42%, and the NASDAQ added 3.25%.[1]After weeks of uncertainty,...

 

Monday, April 20, 2015

Events in China and Europe triggered a modest worldwide sell-off last week, and lackluster corporate earnings in the U.S. contributed to market doldrums. For the week, the S&P 500 fell 0.99%, while the Dow and the NASDAQ both lost 1...

 

Monday, April 13, 2015

Stocks ended the second week of the new quarter on a high note, giving the Dow its first close over 18,000 for the month. Investors took confidence from some major corporate deals as well as fresh data that suggests the economy is...

 

Monday, April 6, 2015

After a volatile winter, stocks ended the quarter about where they started. Oil prices, a strong dollar, and concerns about interest rates contributed to the volatility and uncertainty remains as we enter the second quarter. For the...

 

Monday, March 30, 2015

Markets lost ground again last week, giving up most of the previous week's gains as investors tread water ahead of earnings season. For the week, the S&P 500 lost 2.23%, the Dow fell 2.29%, and the NASDAQ dropped 2.69%.[1]Though...

 

Monday, March 23, 2015

Markets finally snapped their three-week losing streak and rebounded as investors bought the dip and rallied after a Fed meeting. For the week, the S&P 500 gained 2.66%, the Dow rose 2.13%, and the NASDAQ added 3.17%.[1]The Federal...

 

Monday, March 16, 2015

Markets ended another week down after mixed economic data, lower oil prices, and a strengthening dollar made investors nervous ahead of the next Federal Reserve meeting. For the week, the S&P 500 lost 0.86%, the Dow fell 0.60%, and the...

 

Monday, March 9, 2015

Markets closed Friday with losses after a turbulent week as investors began to worry that strong labor market growth might signal rate hikes next quarter. For the week, the Dow fell 1.52%, the S&P 500 dropped 1.58%, and the NASDAQ lost...

 

Monday, March 2, 2015

Stocks ended the week mixed after losses related to a lower fourth-quarter Gross Domestic Product estimate. However, after a lackluster January, the major indices ended February on an upbeat note, with the S&P 500 posting a 5.5% gain...

 

Monday, February 23, 2015

Stocks rallied on the news that Greece reached a new deal with its creditors, sending the Dow and the S&P 500 to new record closes and bringing the Nasdaq close to its own record set in March 2000.[1] For the week, the S&P 500 gained 0...

 

Tuesday, February 17, 2015

Stocks ended another positive week at record highs, sending the Dow above 18,000 and the S&P 500 to a new record close. Investors reacted positively to firming oil prices and news of a possible peace deal in Ukraine. For the week, the...

 

Monday, February 9, 2015

Markets shook off losses last week and ended with strong weekly gains on the back of a positive January jobs report. For the week, the S&P 500 gained 3.03%, the Dow rose 3.84%, and the Nasdaq grew 2.36%.[1] January’s monthly Employment...

 

Monday, February 2, 2015

Markets were driven lower in another volatile week of trading, ending the first month of 2015 in the red. For the week, the S&P 500 lost 2.77%, the Dow fell 2.87%, and the Nasdaq dropped 2.58%.[1] One of the major contributors to the...

 

Thursday, January 29, 2015

Markets ended the week in the black for the first time in 2015 on the back of major moves by multiple central banks. For the week, the S&P 500 gained 1.60%, the Dow grew 0.92%, and the Nasdaq added 2.66%.1 Central banks ruled market...