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Monday, October 2, 2023

Now is an excellent time to start evaluating your current financial situation, determining your future goals and expectations, and working toward pursuing them. If you need help pulling together a plan for your finances, a financial...

Monday, October 2, 2023

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

Monday, October 2, 2023

For many, autumn is the best time of year. The return of cool breezes, comforting foods, and pumpkins can be invigorating. It’s also a bookmark of sorts, especially for your finances—a perfect time to take stock of your...

Monday, October 2, 2023

During turbulent financial times, having a financial emergency plan might provide you with a proverbial life preserver. Whether it is an emergency fund to help you tackle an unplanned expense, insurance to cover an unexpected accident...

Friday, September 1, 2023

As the cost of a college education continues to climb, many grandparents are stepping in to help. This trend is expected to accelerate as baby boomers, many of whom went to college, become grandparents and start gifting what's...

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Friday, September 1, 2023

The earlier you start saving, the easier it will be to send your kids to college The month of September is when many parents are preparing to send children back to school this fall. While the checklists grow and the kids soak in the...

Friday, September 1, 2023

Retirement planning is a constantly evolving process. Strategies that may have worked fine a few years ago may no longer be the optimal direction to continue. Your life may have taken unexpected turns, you may have different retirement...

Friday, September 1, 2023

In the college savings game, all strategies aren't created equal. The best savings vehicles offer special tax advantages if the funds are used to pay for college. Tax-advantaged strategies are important because over time, you can...

Tuesday, August 1, 2023

Go out into your yard and dig a big hole. Every month, throw $50 into it, but don't take any money out until you're ready to buy a house, send your child to college, or retire. It sounds a little crazy, doesn't it? But that's what...

Tuesday, August 1, 2023

1.  Don't lose ground to inflationIt's easy to see how inflation affects gas prices, electric bills, and the cost of food; over time, your money buys less and less. But what inflation does to your investments isn't always as...

Tuesday, August 1, 2023

Recent market news — around social-media driven stock trading that created extreme price swings for shares of certain companies — may have you wondering whether you should jump into the excitement. Before you leap, you...

Tuesday, August 1, 2023

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

Thursday, July 13, 2023

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

Saturday, July 1, 2023

Being a small business owner can be rewarding but also may bring a lot of stress. You may be experiencing the pressures of trying to grow your company while providing a solid future for your employees. On top of all that, you will also...

Saturday, July 1, 2023

If recent market volatility has you questioning your opportunities for financial freedom, you are not alone. Due to rising inflation, higher interest rates, a volatile stock market, and recession fears, many investors find themselves...

Saturday, July 1, 2023

The “Sandwich Generation” faces a lot of struggles. If you’re unfamiliar with this term, it describes a demographic where usually middle-aged individuals must support aging parents at the same time they’re...

Saturday, July 1, 2023

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

Wednesday, June 7, 2023

Every so often Washington likes to remind us how hard it can be to get things accomplished. The most recent example is the debt ceiling—the amount Congress can borrow to pay its bills. It seems like we have this debate every few...

Thursday, June 1, 2023

Estate planning helps disperse your assets according to your wishes. The effort may seem daunting at first, but estate planning does not have to be overly complicated. Here are some tips to help anyone get started.

Thursday, June 1, 2023

Although many things have changed in the financial world over the past 20 years, some nuggets of financial advice are timeless. Here are a few tips that have remained constant for several generations.

Thursday, June 1, 2023

Employee benefits are an important part of a company's strategy to attract and retain top talent. As the workforce evolves, employee benefit trends are changing to meet the needs of employees.

Thursday, June 1, 2023

Right now is a great time to assess your insurance coverage. It's always possible to strengthen your current insurance coverage or purchase new coverage. Here are three parts for determining how much insurance coverage you need.

Monday, May 1, 2023

Small Business Owners: Are You Retirement Ready (or Not)?Whether you are an employee in corporate America or a small business owner, retirement is a part of life. For many, the thought of retiring and whether or not you are ready to...

Monday, May 1, 2023

Money Milestones: 4 Financial Goals for Older IndividualsIf you saved for retirement for a while, you might look forward to a break from financial responsibility for the remaining portion of your life. But striving for economic...

Monday, May 1, 2023

3 Ways Life Insurance Can Help Small Business OwnersFor small business owners, ensuring your investment is covered is critical to ensuring the survival of your business after you are gone. One of the ways in which small business owners...

Monday, May 1, 2023

3 Tips for Preserving Wealth in Your Golden YearsAfter spending so much of your life saving for retirement, it may be challenging to transition from depositing funds to withdrawing them. You may wonder whether there is any way to...

Monday, May 1, 2023

Utilizing a 529 Plan as a Wealth Transfer Tool529 plans are designed for saving for education and are beneficial since contributions accumulate and grow tax-free as long as withdrawals are used for qualified education expenses. But 529...

Sunday, April 30, 2023

BEAVER, PA – Amanda L. Albanese, CPA, Chief Compliance Officer of Three Cord True Wealth Management, LLC has earned the designation of Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA®). Kingdom Advisors, a membership community for...

Saturday, April 1, 2023

6 Money Myths That Are Limiting Your WealthWhen people think of “myths,” they often think of such stories as Pandora’s Box (the woman who took the lid off of a jar releasing all of the world’s ills upon the...

Saturday, April 1, 2023

5 Last Minute Considerations Before Tax Day With April’s federal tax filing and payment deadline on the horizon, Americans are dotting their i’s and crossing their t’s as they prepare for the countdown to Tax Day. But...

Saturday, April 1, 2023

The Best Investment: Teaching Your Children to Save and Invest   A 2022 Gallup Poll found that 58% of all adult Americans own stock. The top 1% owns more than half the total amount invested among those who own stock. 1 Making...

Saturday, April 1, 2023

Why Financial Literacy is Crucial for Business Owners Everyone needs to have some level of financial literacy to help manage their finances. However, financial literacy becomes even more crucial when you're a business owner. You...

Wednesday, March 1, 2023

Pay Down Debt or Save for Retirement?All investing involves risk, including the potential loss of principal, and there can be no guarantee that any investing strategy will be successful.The most important decision you can make is to...

Wednesday, March 1, 2023

2023 Tax Guide to Fringe Benefits ReleasedCents-per-mile rule, parking and transportation benefits and health FSAsThe IRS has released the 2023 final version of its Publication 15-B (The Employer’s Tax Guide to Fringe Benefits)...

Wednesday, March 1, 2023

Luck of the Investor: Making Your Own Luck on St. Patrick's DayAs Samuel Goldwyn once said, "The harder I work…the luckier I get!" 1 But when it comes to investing, luck may play a huge role in outcomes—no matter how hard...

Wednesday, March 1, 2023

Spring Has Sprung: Time to Refresh Your Retirement Plan Spring can be a fantastic time to refresh your retirement plan and savings habits. With 2023 bringing increased limits for 401(k)s, individual retirement accounts (IRAs), Health...

Wednesday, March 1, 2023

6 ways Account View paperless forms simplify tax time Tax time can be stressful, and often means a lot of time and paperwork, but you can reduce some of the stress by going paperless with your tax documents. You can receive tax...

Wednesday, February 15, 2023

8 Tips for Becoming a Wise Consumer of Healthcare With healthcare costs continuing to rise, there are ways to help lower the cost of healthcare for yourself by becoming a wise consumer of healthcare. February is National Wise Health...

Tuesday, February 14, 2023

Entrepreneurship and Financial Risk: What You Need to Know Entrepreneurs tend to be natural risk-takers but this doesn't mean committing to uncompensated risk. A wise entrepreneur considers their potential exposure before leaping into a...

Tuesday, February 7, 2023

5 Valentine's Day Gifts that Grow in Value Over Time Valentine's Day is one of the biggest holidays for romance and for lavishing gifts on that special someone in your life. While flowers and chocolates may be the most common gifts...

Wednesday, February 1, 2023

5 Ways a Financial Professional Could Be a Small-Business Owner's Best Friend As a business owner, you may assume you do not need professional financial advice until you hit certain milestones such as $1 million in sales, having ten...

Thursday, January 19, 2023

A Look at Tax Planning for Retirement After years of saving and planning for their golden years, many people nearing retirement fail to consider the tax burden they may face on income they receive after they stop working. While you will...

Thursday, January 12, 2023

Five Healthy Habits for Financial Wellness Financial stress can have a direct negative impact on a person's health and happiness. Unfortunately, this may lead to a downward spiral. The more stress you're feeling, the larger your...

Thursday, January 5, 2023

New Year, New Goals: Your Countdown to Financial Health For many people, a new year provides a new start—and nothing says "new start" like a fresh new set of financial goals. But setting these goals is easier said than...

Tuesday, January 3, 2023

Though you may not get as many emails promising bodily enhancements or asking you to keep some overseas funds in your checking account temporarily, the risk of falling victim to a cybercriminal is a real one. How up to speed are you...

Tuesday, December 20, 2022

A resolution for every month to help you work towards financial independenceCleaning up personal finances remains one of the top resolutions every New Year. But we all know what happens to most such self-promises, so here’s a...

Saturday, December 17, 2022

What is family wealth, and how do you preserve it? You have worked hard for years and accumulated wealth. You earned this money through your job, investing, and saving, and you want to preserve it for yourself and to take care of...

Saturday, December 10, 2022

It’s hard to believe we are already approaching the end of another year, and holiday season will soon be here. Since holiday spending doesn’t include just gifting, it’s essential to set your budget now. You may likely...

Wednesday, December 7, 2022

Through all the challenges, newfound opportunities, and every high and low we’ve experienced during the last couple of years, it’s no surprise why we might be striving for more balance. Whether it’s about the markets...

Thursday, December 1, 2022

Tax planning can be advantageous when done during the year and well in advance of year’s end. Opportunities exist for you to mitigate tax liability, which may leave more income for you and/or your family.Generally, people put off...

Tuesday, November 22, 2022

When Thanksgiving rolls around, the holiday shopping season comes into full swing. While many people prepare their strategy for Black Friday shopping, a lot of them forget about the second shopping holiday that weekend: Small Business...

Monday, November 14, 2022

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

Sunday, November 13, 2022

If you're considering giving back to society or a cause as part of your financial planning, there are many ways you can do so. You can make an impact while receiving tax benefits by including philanthropic giving as part of a holistic...

Sunday, October 30, 2022

The vast majority of Americans need long-term care. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 70% of people over age 65 may need some long-term care during their lives.1 Unfortunately, planning for long-term care...

Thursday, October 20, 2022

With the cost of long-term care (LTC) increasing year over year, considering how the costs of long-term LTC will impact your financial plan is essential. According to insurance company Genworth, the price of LTC services increased...

Wednesday, October 19, 2022

If you find yourself wavering back and forth on whether it's worth involving a financial professional for tax, retirement, or investment advice, consider this:A financial professional may be able to help defend you against crime and...

Thursday, October 13, 2022

This is a general overview of Medicare coverage. For more information, visit medicare.gov.You can also get free, personalized help from a trained counselor by contacting your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP). Your...

Thursday, October 13, 2022

Basic estate planning is something that everyone should do, regardless of your age, marital status, the value of your assets, and if you’re a parent or not.  According to a 2021 poll by Gallup, less than half of U.S. adults...

Monday, October 10, 2022

We’ve all heard this advice before: if you want to save money, you need to cut back on spending. However, it’s not always so easy. Identifying senseless spending in the following areas can help you save more each month...

Saturday, October 1, 2022

Planning how to pay for the expenses of attending college or a technical school is essential, and there are ways to save to make secondary education more affordable. Here are three things to know about secondary education planning and...

Saturday, October 1, 2022

Financial planning is unique for each person; no two financial plans look the same because everyone's life and personal goals are different. Regardless of what your goals are, financial planning can help you work towards achieving them...

Thursday, September 22, 2022

Life insurance has come a long way since the days when it was known as burial insurance and used mainly to pay for funeral expenses. Today, life insurance is a crucial part of many estate plans. You can use it to leave much-needed...

Monday, September 12, 2022

One of the main concerns about retirement is health care. As healthcare costs continue to rise, medical bills may quickly derail your retirement plan. The good news is when you turn 65, you will be able to apply for Medicare, which...

Tuesday, September 6, 2022

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

Monday, September 5, 2022

Implementing a 401(k) plan for your employees is good business. It means you're thinking strategically, that you care for your employees, and are focused on the long-term health of your company. Implementing a retirement plan:Can help...

Wednesday, August 31, 2022

529 plans can be a great way to save for college, but they're not the only way. When you're investing for a major goal like education, it makes sense to be familiar with all of your options.Mutual fundsMutual funds are an option to...

Thursday, August 18, 2022

In 2022, U.S. inflation hit a 40-year high, with prices for food, housing, gasoline, and other key staples increasing by nearly 10% over the previous year.1 During these uncertain times, stocks have continued a roller-coaster ride...

Thursday, August 18, 2022

Making decisions about your retirement account can seem overwhelming, especially if you feel unsure about your knowledge of investments. However, the following basic rules can help you make smarter choices regardless of whether you...

Thursday, August 11, 2022

With age comes responsibility, so if you're a young adult in your 20s or 30s, chances are you've been introduced to the realities of adulthood. While you're excited by all the opportunities life has to offer, you're also aware of your...

Wednesday, August 3, 2022

What is the forecast for college cost increases?A college education is expensive. All those benefits of personal growth, expanded horizons, and increased lifetime earning power come at a price, a price that increases every year....

Tuesday, August 2, 2022

Businesses sell shares of stock to investors as a way to raise money to finance expansion, pay off debt, and provide operating capital. Each share of stock represents a proportional share of ownership in the company. As a stockholder,...

Monday, July 25, 2022

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

Thursday, July 21, 2022

The sandwich generation is a term commonly used to describe those between the ages of 40 and 59 who are responsible for raising their family and are also often helping their aging parents manage their ongoing needs. Those members of...

Monday, July 18, 2022

Social isolation makes people more susceptible to illness and death.1 While retirement is a time for relaxation and enjoyment from a lifetime of work, it may lead to a lack of purpose if you have depended on work for...

Wednesday, July 13, 2022

Markets rarely give us clear skies, and there are always threats to watch for on the horizon, but the right preparation, context, and support can help us navigate anything that may lie ahead. So far, this year hasn’t seen a...

Thursday, July 7, 2022

For members of the "Sandwich Generation"—those currently in their 40s and 50s who are caring for children and their parents who are over 65-years old—estate planning may seem like a low priority. After all, when you're...

Thursday, June 30, 2022

Today, younger adults face a variety of challenges in their pursuit of financial independence. Some of these challenges are similar to those faced by previous generations, while others are unique to the times. Here are five financial...

Thursday, June 30, 2022

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

Monday, June 27, 2022

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

Wednesday, June 22, 2022

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

Tuesday, June 14, 2022

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

Thursday, June 9, 2022

A regular program of disciplined financial practices can help you in the long-run Many people realize that the best way to stay in shape is to develop an appropriate fitness regimen and then stick with it. If you start a fitness...

Tuesday, June 7, 2022

Summer can be a hectic time, with kids home from school, camps, vacations, and more littering the itinerary. So hosting a summertime soiree can be challenging—but it doesn’t have to be. Just plan ahead a little, and use the...

Monday, June 6, 2022

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

Thursday, May 26, 2022

Whether your child was just born or is heading toward high school graduation, a 529 savings plan may help you put aside funds to pay for college expenses without paying taxes (federal and some states) on any dividends and gains.1 However, 5

Wednesday, May 25, 2022

 If you’re like most homeowners, the importance of homeowners insurance is obvious. If your home is damaged as a result of fire, theft, lightning, heavy snow, or high winds, your homeowners policy would likely cover the cost...

Wednesday, May 25, 2022

When it comes to your retirement, there are three factors that you may want to take into account when planning for your retirement income needs.  First, the deductibility of Individual Retirement Account (IRA) contributions...

Wednesday, May 25, 2022

Annuity products have grown more sophisticated over the years to meet the demands of today's more sophisticated investors.Just as mutual funds grew in popularity as an alternative to certificates of deposit, the variable annuity was...

Tuesday, May 24, 2022

Friday, May 20, 2022

Retirement is a new stage in life and one that is full of possibilities if you take advantage of it. Too often, those who have spent most of their life working hard may now find the abundance of time hard to fill or may find it difficult to

Thursday, May 19, 2022

America’s older generations grew up in a different world where it was customary to be courteous and trusting. Unfortunately, these exemplary standards of conduct could get some individuals into trouble. Con artists bank on the willingness o

Thursday, May 19, 2022

Vasilios “Vasili” Rizos, CFA®, CFP®, a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® and Chartered Financial Analyst®, has joined Three Cord True Wealth Management of Beaver and Pittsburgh and as a registered...

Monday, May 16, 2022

Tuesday, May 10, 2022

Thursday, May 5, 2022

Most business owners become wealthy the “old-fashioned” way—they work hard. But, suppose a business owner and his or her spouse were to die unexpectedly. Undoubtedly, they would hope their children or other family members involved in the bu

Monday, May 2, 2022

Thursday, April 28, 2022

In today’s business climate, it may be more important than ever for companies to operate at maximum efficiency and with a keen awareness of the potential impact of changes in their industry and the economy. Using a SWOT analysis to take a c

Monday, April 25, 2022

Thursday, April 21, 2022

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Wednesday, April 6, 2022

Tuesday, April 5, 2022

Friday, April 1, 2022

Monday, March 28, 2022

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Tuesday, March 22, 2022

Monday, March 14, 2022

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Monday, February 28, 2022

Tuesday, February 22, 2022

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Friday, January 28, 2022

Wednesday, January 26, 2022

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Monday, January 24, 2022

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Thursday, January 6, 2022

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Tuesday, December 28, 2021

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Tuesday, December 21, 2021

Tuesday, December 14, 2021

Tuesday, December 7, 2021

Monday, December 6, 2021

Monday, November 29, 2021

The big news this week was Jerome Powell will remain in charge of the Federal Reserve (Fed) for four more years, so we wanted to do a quick blog that looked at how stocks have done while he has been the Fed Chairman. “There are...

Monday, November 29, 2021

BEAVER, Nov. 29, 2021 - Amanda “Mandy” Albanese, CPA has been named Vice President of Finance for Three Cord True Wealth Management LLC and Director of Tax Compliance and Planning for Three Cord True Wealth Tax Solutions,...

Tuesday, November 23, 2021

At the beginning of each year, and regularly after that, it may be a wise idea to take stock of finances and make some changes to help improve your financial life. Here are five resolutions you may make to increase financial...

Tuesday, November 23, 2021

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

Tuesday, November 23, 2021

Financial stress can have a direct negative impact on a person's health and happiness. Unfortunately, this may lead to a downward spiral. The more stress you're feeling, the larger your financial hurdles may seem, and the more you may...

Monday, November 22, 2021

On Thursday, November 18, the Conference Board released it October 2021 report detailing the latest reading for the Leading Economic Index (LEI), a composite of ten data series that tend to lead changes in economic activity. Many...

Wednesday, November 17, 2021

In a late-October victory for construction companies, public utilities, and electric vehicle manufacturers alike, Congress passed a trillion-dollar bill designed to preserve, revitalize, and expand the country's infrastructure....

Tuesday, November 16, 2021

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

Monday, November 8, 2021

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

Monday, November 1, 2021

Index Performance View enlarged chart. U.S. and International Equities Stocks erased September losses with solid gains in October for the broad market averages. The S&P 500 returned almost 7% for the month, while the Dow Industrials...

Monday, October 25, 2021

Regardless of size, companies can benefit when the community in which they do business thrives. For entrepreneurs, giving back to the community may be more than just a charitable act; it can also make good business sense. If you have...

Monday, October 25, 2021

For many people, a new year provides a new start—and nothing says "new start" like a fresh new set of financial goals. But setting these goals is easier said than done. What steps should you take to get the most bang for your...

Monday, October 25, 2021

Is that investment an innovation or an improvement on an existing product? As Christmas sales loom, we face an endless array of sparkly, shiny and occasionally innovative items. As an investor, you run into a similar phenomenon that...

Tuesday, October 19, 2021

The largest cost-of-living-adjustment since 1982 impacts 90% of seniors On October 13th, the Social Security Administration announced that Social Security and Supplemental Security Income benefits for tens of millions of Americans will...

Tuesday, October 19, 2021

We have used most of the superlatives we know to describe corporate America’s stunning performances over the past two earnings seasons. Despite lofty expectations, results exceeded estimates by the biggest margins we’ve...

Monday, October 11, 2021

Index Performance View enlarged chart. U.S. and International Equities Major U.S. and International Markets Finished Higher The major equity markets reversed course from last week to finish higher. The international markets results...

Monday, October 4, 2021

With the fourth quarter underway—historically the best quarter for stocks, by the way—2022 is fast approaching. While a lot can still happen between now and the end of 2021, we don’t think it’s too early to...

Monday, September 27, 2021

On Thursday, September 23, the Conference Board released its August 2021 report detailing the latest reading for the Leading Economic Index (LEI), a composite of ten data series that tend to lead changes in economic activity. Many...

Thursday, September 23, 2021

Today, many people find themselves bombarded by a constant stream of financial news from television, radio, and the Internet. Yet, does all this “information age” data really help you manage your finances any better now...

Thursday, September 23, 2021

Over the last 18 months, hundreds of thousands of Americans have fallen ill with COVID-19, with around 30 percent of those with COVID continuing to suffer long-term effects that compromise their self-care abilities. If you're facing an...

Monday, September 20, 2021

Chinese property developer Evergrande’s liquidity crisis has sparked fear and massive selling in Chinese property stocks over the past several weeks. The big question is could this be the first domino to fall, sparking a systemic...

Monday, September 13, 2021

Two large infrastructure bills have taken important steps to advance in Congress. Here's where they stand: On August 10, 2021, the Senate passed a $1.2 trillion bipartisan infrastructure bill, to be named the Infrastructure Investment...

Tuesday, September 7, 2021

It seems to be two steps forward, one step back for the U.S. labor market. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics released its August employment report this morning, revealing that the domestic economy added a disappointing 235,000 jobs...

Monday, August 30, 2021

Index Performance View enlarged chart. U.S. and International Equities Major Markets Rebound The major markets finished higher after last week’s selloff, as an already strong week was capped off with a broad-based rally on Friday...

Monday, August 23, 2021

Index Performance View enlarged chart. U.S. and International Equities Major Markets Pullback The major markets this week finished lower as value sectors reversed course from last week’s gains. The strength in cyclicals the prior...

Monday, August 23, 2021

Have you ever thought about what would happen if you or a family member were no longer able to live independently? What if your elderly parents were no longer able to drive or perform basic activities of daily living, such as bathing...

Monday, August 23, 2021

If your 65th birthday is coming up—or if you're receiving Social Security Disability payments and are about to qualify for Medicare before age 65—you may be wondering exactly what comes next.1 Below, we discuss some...

Monday, August 23, 2021

In 2013, a Gallup poll found that only about one in every three U.S. households maintained a budget.1 A 2021 survey of 1,000 Americans found that 80% now say they have a budget.2 Americans are budgeting more due to the pandemic....

Monday, August 23, 2021

Whether you're applying for your own college aid or helping your teen get started on their college applications, you've probably heard of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This document holds an important place in...

Wednesday, August 18, 2021

Economic Blog Thursday, August 18, 2021 Retail sales fell 1.1% in July as consumer spending likely experienced some drag from the spread of the Delta variant late in the month. The drop was larger than Bloomberg’s consensus...

Wednesday, August 11, 2021

We’ve all heard the outrageous stories of tumbledown houses selling for record-high prices, dozens of multiple offers within hours of a new listing hitting the MLS, and bonuses and incentives to sweeten the pot from...

Wednesday, August 11, 2021

Fall is in full swing, and for most families, so is a return to the school year routine. But for some kids, adjusting back to this schedule can be stressful—and can take a little longer than you’d like to find balance. But...

Wednesday, August 11, 2021

The Chairperson of the Federal Reserve (Fed) is appointed by the President of the United States and serves a four-year term. The current Chairperson, Jerome Powell, has held that position since 2018 so his initial term is ending early...

Thursday, August 5, 2021

August 5, 2021 Dear Valued Investor: Six months and counting. That is the current monthly winning streak for the S&P 500 Index. To take that a step further, this key equity benchmark has posted gains in 13 of the last 16...

Wednesday, August 4, 2021

Hard to believe, but we are in August already! The good news is stocks are still firmly in a bull market, but the bad news is the calendar is a potential worry now. As shown in the LPL Chart of the Day, August and September have been...

Wednesday, July 28, 2021

The Federal Reserve (Fed) meets this week to discuss its ongoing support for the U.S. economy. During its regularly scheduled two-day meeting, the nineteen-member committee is expected to discuss if and when the Fed should start to...

Monday, July 26, 2021

Although we all know that “time flies,” it seems to move particularly fast as we watch our children grow. Yet, in considering a college future for a newborn, it is understandable that parents might procrastinate, since...

Monday, July 26, 2021

September 22nd is American Business Women's Day, and it may be the perfect day to celebrate women who have surpassed the glass ceiling and gone on to be leaders and inspirations for businesswomen everywhere. In honor of American...

Monday, July 26, 2021

When it comes to 401(k) plans, some people may find themselves a bit confused about the 10% Federal income tax penalty for withdrawals prior to age 59½ and hardship withdrawals from a 401(k) plan. The Internal Revenue Service...

Monday, July 26, 2021

2020 was one of the most disruptive years ever for the U.S. job market, almost as significant as the unemployment during the Great Depression in 1933 and surpassing joblessness during the Great Recession from 2006 to 2008. Many...

Wednesday, July 21, 2021

Top Story Earnings season off to a great start Beat rates have been outstanding so far with 85% and 90% of S&P 500 companies beating earnings and revenue targets. Second quarter earnings growth is tracking to a nearly 70%...

Tuesday, July 13, 2021

LPL Research Midyear Outlook 2021: Picking Up Speed is designed to help you navigate the risks and opportunities over the rest of 2021 and beyond. While the speed can be exhilarating as economic growth accelerates, it can also be...

Thursday, July 8, 2021

Dear Valued Investor: In the first half of 2021, the U.S. economy powered forward faster than nearly anyone had expected. Speed can be exhilarating, but it can also be dangerous. In our view, the overall economic picture remains sound...

Tuesday, July 6, 2021

Top Story Streaking. Stocks have been extremely strong recently. Here are some eye-opening stats. The S&P 500 Index is up seven days in a row for the first time since August 2020. It hasn’t been up eight in a row since April 2019...

Tuesday, June 29, 2021

Top Story Three Things That Worry Us Markets are off to a strong start this year, with the S&P 500 Index up about 14% so far. However, most of those gains came early in the year, and many stocks have stagnated over recent months. While...

Wednesday, June 23, 2021

As the call continues to come for following through on support of minority-owned businesses,[1] many are wondering how they may lend their support to black businesses. Whether through direct investment or community support, there are...

Wednesday, June 23, 2021

Fear-of-missing-out is a very real emotion – but it can derail your portfolio Every day we’re bombarded with reports of what’s hot and what’s not – fueling a fear-of-missing-out (FOMO) on some great...

Wednesday, June 23, 2021

Everyone needs to make smart financial decisions that steer them toward financial independence. When people thrive financially, they may feel less financial stress, leading them to accomplish short and long-term financial goals. Here...

Tuesday, June 22, 2021

Top Story Inflation And What the Fed Is Saying A complete picture of the reaction to the July 16 Federal Reserve (Fed) meeting is yet to come and may be more muted. Both stocks and bonds reacted strongly to the outcome of the...

Monday, June 14, 2021

Top Story Sustainable Investing Becoming Mainstream in Fixed Income Sustainable investing is becoming more mainstream in fixed income—and companies that fail to acknowledge changing dynamics may potentially face financially...

Wednesday, June 9, 2021

Top Story Policy tailwinds may turn into headwinds in 2022, but economic fundamentals likely to dominate The U.S. stock market was supported by tremendous fiscal stimulus in 2020 and into 2021 and may face some challenges as support...

Thursday, June 3, 2021

June 3, 2021 Dear Valued Investor: As we move into June, a path to normalcy is coming quickly with stadiums allowing full capacity, restaurants filling up, and summer vacations in full swing. Meanwhile, the U.S. economy continues to...

Wednesday, June 2, 2021

Market Blog Wednesday, June 2, 2021 Although there was some notable weakness in the middle of May, the S&P 500 Index was able to rally late in the month to finish with a modest gain. Incredibly, this was the eighth year out of the past...

Tuesday, May 25, 2021

Top Story Stock Market Gains Likely To Slow LPL Research explores how, as this bull market gets a little older, the pace of stock market gains will likely slow but does not expect pullbacks to last very long. Learn more in this...

Wednesday, May 19, 2021

Daily Insights U.S. markets point to a lower open Market participants continue to consider inflation’s impact on interest rates and Federal Reserve policy. The S&P 500 Index, the Nasdaq Composite, and the Dow Jones Industrial...

Monday, May 17, 2021

Did you know you could fund a 529 plan with UGMA/UTMA assets? Due to the shift to online classes over the past year, 2020 saw the lowest tuition increase in the last four decades. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the...

Monday, May 17, 2021

Everyone’s retirement cash flow situation is different. Some people are prepared with enough retirement savings to last their lifetime, others are not. Still, others are unsure about the ‘ups and downs’ that can...

Monday, May 17, 2021

Many Americans are stressed over money issues related to COVID-19, according to a 2020 Survey by The National Endowment for Financial Education. The media may report a strong U.S. economy is emerging, but many people experience stress...

Tuesday, May 11, 2021

Top Story Blowout earnings With nearly 90% of S&P 500 companies having reported, first quarter earnings are tracking to a remarkable 49% year-over-year increase, more than double the increase as of March 31. S&P 500 revenue is on track...

Thursday, May 6, 2021

Dear Valued Investor: As the calendar has turned to May, the popular “Sell in May and Go Away” stock market cliché is getting a lot of airtime. This is the idea that the stock market tends to be weakest between May...

Wednesday, May 5, 2021

Earnings are off the charts Perhaps the best thing we can say about the earnings upside generated by corporate America during Q1 2021—currently more than 22%—is that growth pierced the upper end of our earnings dashboard...

Wednesday, April 28, 2021

Corporate America Keeps Adding To Earnings Upside With about 25% of S&P 500 Index companies having reported, first quarter earnings are tracking to a 34% year-over-year increase, an impressive 10 percentage points above March 31...

Wednesday, April 21, 2021

As college costs keep rising, parents are looking for ways to provide funding for their child’s education and determine what institution will prevent them from taking on substantial debt. One college funding source is utilizing...

Wednesday, April 21, 2021

Additional insurance to protect your assets and future Why doesn’t anyone ever tell you not to buy an umbrella liability policy? It seems like additional overall security for pennies. Sure, you can spend pennies paying for...

Wednesday, April 21, 2021

Retirement can be a risky business if you don’t consider all the factors that can impact your retirement during your planning process. Although it’s hard to know what will happen in the future to you or your investments,...

Monday, April 19, 2021

Peak optimism? Stocks are continuing their momentum from last year, with major indexes around the world making new highs and the S&P 500 Index already up more than 12% year to date. While optimism surrounding the reopening is certainly...

Monday, April 5, 2021

Dear Valued Investor: “The real key to making money in stocks is not to get scared out of them.” Peter Lynch They say April showers bring May flowers. Well, after a lot of showers and storms over the past year, flowers are...

Thursday, March 25, 2021

Buying a life insurance policy is something that many people push off, sometimes until it is too late. For many people, the thought of buying life insurance means thinking about their death, which is something that most people wish to...

Wednesday, March 24, 2021

Your financial professional can help you navigate the ever-changing IRS rules Taxpayers of all ages may be able to claim a deduction on their 2020 tax return for contributions made to their Individual Retirement Account made through...

Tuesday, March 23, 2021

The U.S. Department of the Treasury is delaying the April 15th deadline to file and pay taxes until May 17th, giving individuals and businesses another month to file and then pay the government what they owe. The IRS will be providing...

Monday, March 15, 2021

March Madness: Stock Market Edition LPL Research share their “Final Four Factors” for the stock market in 2021 in this week’s Weekly Market Commentary, available at 1 p.m. ET. Daily Insights U.S. stocks open little...

Wednesday, March 10, 2021

Top Story Why Higher Rates Aren’t Bad For Stocks In this week’s new Market Signals podcast and video, Chief Market Strategist Ryan Detrick and Equity Strategist Jeffrey Buchbinder discuss why higher rates historically...

Thursday, March 4, 2021

Dear Valued Investor: It’s now been over a year since COVID-19 first hit American shores. While the pandemic has affected everyone to varying degrees, we can all agree that everyone’s life is different today than it was a...

Monday, March 1, 2021

Here Comes The Earnings Boom LPL Research reviews an incredible earnings season and speculates on a potentially strong earnings rebound for 2021 and beyond. Find out more in today’s Weekly Market Commentary, available at 1 p.m....

Thursday, February 25, 2021

With so many tax provisions tweaked in 2020—from the CARES Act in March to the Consolidated Appropriation Act in December—some taxpayers may find it challenging to get everything together in time to file their taxes by the...

Thursday, February 25, 2021

Remember, it is never too early to start planning for your future The time to begin planning for your financial future is now. So, when it comes to preparing for retirement, the earlier you start, the better. Here are some steps to...

Thursday, February 25, 2021

Budgeting should always be the centerpiece of your financial resolutions Did you make a New Year’s resolution at the start of the year? For 2021, many Americans are making the resolution to adopt healthy habits – concerning...

Thursday, February 25, 2021

Many have heard Social Security retirement benefits referred to as part of the "three-legged stool" of retirement: Social Security, a pension or defined benefit plan, and personal savings.1 The idea is that with these three sources of...

Wednesday, February 24, 2021

New Market Signals Podcast Chief Strategist Ryan Detrick, Equity Strategist Jeffrey Buchbinder, and guest speaker Jason Hoody, Head of Investment Manager Research discuss why sustainable investing is a major trend that isn’t...

Wednesday, February 24, 2021

Dear Valued Investor, “In the short-term, the market is a popularity contest. In the long-term, the market is a weighing machine.” Warren Buffett 2021 is under way, as our nation and the rest of the world look to begin to...

Wednesday, February 17, 2021

Global markets avoid chill of cold and ice across the United States Weather-related power outages temporarily limited US oil output, helping to push the US oil benchmark to over $60/barrel for the first time in over a year....

Wednesday, February 17, 2021

In 2020, the average FICO score in the U.S. rose to 711, an eight-point increase from 2019.1 When it comes to having healthy credit, your score is the result of many factors. But what specifically goes into someone's credit report, and...

Wednesday, February 17, 2021

The EITC was enacted in 1975, yet 20% of eligible taxpayers fail to claim it The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) is a federal tax credit that can provide great benefit to families. According to the IRS, in 2019 alone, approximately 25...

Tuesday, February 9, 2021

US stocks open modestly higher after last week’s strong rally European markets firmly higher in midday trading with the United Kingdom outperforming after lagging last week. Asian stocks mostly higher as Japan’s Nikkei 225...

Tuesday, February 2, 2021

Daily Insights The S&P 500 Index opens firmly higher to begin a busy week of earnings; over 100 S&P 500 companies set to report: European markets stronger in midday trading Asian markets surge overnight with Korea, Hong Kong and Taiwan...

Wednesday, January 27, 2021

FINANCIAL ADVISOR Nicholas Raught EARNS CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ CERTIFICATION [Beaver, PA] — [January 27, 2021] – Nicholas Raught, an independent financial advisor at Three Cord True Wealth Management in Beaver,...

Tuesday, January 26, 2021

Small Caps Still Strong Small cap stocks have outperformed large cap stocks and breadth continues to improve. Earnings are expected to surge this year. LPL Research continues to maintain a neutral small caps view—but with a...

Wednesday, January 20, 2021

Daily Insights Stocks open higher following the long weekend US stocks rise as investors await US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen’s stimulus pitch to Congress. Bond yields are higher. European markets are mixed in early trading....

Tuesday, January 12, 2021

2021 Policies Update and the Markets In this week’s Market Signals podcast and video, LPL Research talks about 2021 policy updates and the possibilities of higher taxes and more regulation, more stimulus, higher Treasury yields,...

Monday, January 11, 2021

After months of intense debate, the House and Senate voted to pass a second COVID-19 economic stimulus bill and the President has signed it into law.1 At a total cost of $900 billion, this 5,600-page bill[1] contains everything from...

Thursday, January 7, 2021

Only one-in-four Americans (27%) feel very confident that they will have enough money to live comfortably when they retire, according to the 2020 Retirement Confidence Survey Summary Report.⁠11 While the number is up slightly from the...

Thursday, January 7, 2021

Deciding when to retire and begin collecting Social Security is an important life decision. For some, savings losses may dictate that you delay your retirement plans and continue working, which means postponing when you begin...

Wednesday, December 30, 2020

Solid holiday shopping season. Holiday sales grew 3%, beating forecasts for a 2.4% increase according to MasterCard’s SpendingPulse. Online sales rose 49% year over year. These results were impressive for a recessionary...

Tuesday, December 15, 2020

Daily Insights Stocks open firmly higher. US markets opened higher following the emergency-use approval of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine. Fiscal stimulus discussions are ongoing, but there have been no major developments....

Tuesday, December 8, 2020

More than most years, it’s hard to look ahead to the next year, to 2021, without looking back at 2020. A global pandemic, a massive economic collapse, a bear market, a surprisingly sharp reversal, a hotly contested election where...

Thursday, December 3, 2020

Financial wellness, like physical wellness, isn’t something you should ignore. Instead, it's a critical concept for anyone who wants to be knowledgeable and confident about their finances, and in fact, financial wellness is so...

Thursday, December 3, 2020

If you’re looking for way to save money as you head into 2021, there are a few ways that can potentially cut costs around your household, without having a major impact on your lifestyle. Read on for three ways you can trim some...

Thursday, December 3, 2020

New Year's is traditionally the time to review your life and make resolutions for change. In addition to thinking about working out, eating healthy, and meeting personal and professional goals, you should also think about your...

Thursday, December 3, 2020

The COVID-19 pandemic put quite a crimp on large parties or even smaller gatherings in close quarters, and now, holiday gatherings and events are likely to look very different in 2020. But different doesn't necessarily mean bad, and...

Thursday, December 3, 2020

December 3, 2020 Dear Valued Investor: As 2020 comes to a close, we are already looking forward to a new year—and to a world very different from the one we’re leaving behind. Areas of the economy have been damaged and may...

Wednesday, December 2, 2020

COVID-19 May Threaten the Recovery The stock market doesn’t appear fazed by the recent increase in COVID-19 outbreaks, but underlying economic data is beginning to reflect the latest government and consumer shutdowns. LPL...

Wednesday, November 25, 2020

COVID-19 cases have been rising in several regions around the world, prompting many countries to implement new restrictions to curb the spread of the virus. Governments in a few European countries have rolled out what has been dubbed...

Wednesday, November 18, 2020

It took more than two years, but small caps finally broke out to new highs, as the Russell 2000 Index on Friday closed at its first new high since August 31, 2018. This capped off one of the longest stretches ever without a new high....

Wednesday, November 11, 2020

Dear Valued Investor: Former Vice President Joe Biden has been elected the 46th President of the United States, defeating President Donald Trump in a tight race and bringing an end to the highly contested 2020 election. The new...

Thursday, November 5, 2020

Last year, the average American spent nearly $1,000 per person on holiday gifts, up from about $885 per person in 2018.1 Though the COVID-19 pandemic continues to weigh on the retail sector (and many Americans' bank accounts), some...

Thursday, November 5, 2020

Retirement is the time in your life when you want to sit back, relax, and enjoy the fruits of years of hard work. But unfortunately, when the market is volatile, it may bring additional anxiety and stress. The good news is, a volatile...

Thursday, November 5, 2020

2020 has been one of the most unprecedented years in recent history, but some things—like tax contributions and retirement deadlines—don't change much, if at all. And with the uncertainty surrounding just about everything,...

Thursday, November 5, 2020

As the end of the year approaches, it's time to consider strategies that could help you reduce your tax bill. But most tax tips, suggestions, and strategies are of little practical help without a good understanding of your current tax...

Wednesday, November 4, 2020

November 4, 2020 Dear Valued Investor: The American people have voted, casting a record number of ballots under extraordinary circumstances, which is a testament to the enduring resilience of our democracy. Determining the outcome of...

Wednesday, October 28, 2020

Market Blog With the election only eight days away and earnings season in full swing, stocks have bucked the usual October weakness during election years so far in 2020 (Monday’s losses notwithstanding). The good news is this...

Wednesday, October 21, 2020

The world's events always affect the markets, and making smart investment choices requires you to look at what's happening around the world. But what about during an election year? How should you invest while the country is deciding...

Tuesday, October 20, 2020

US equities look to rebound from Monday’s selloff. The S&P 500 Index opened higher this morning after lack of progress on stimulus talks contributed to broad-based losses Monday. Investors may start looking ahead to a...

Wednesday, October 14, 2020

Daily Insights Stocks open slightly lower as earnings season begins. Once launched by Alcoa, the unofficial start to earnings season now begins with several financial firms reporting. The S&P 500 Index opened slightly weaker Tuesday...

Thursday, October 8, 2020

Any endeavor worth undertaking, especially one that may affect others, deserves our careful consideration before we begin. When contemplating charitable giving, think about the following points: Choose Your Causes. Worthy causes abound...

Thursday, October 8, 2020

By the last third of the calendar year, you're likely to have a pretty good idea of what your annual income will be and whether any major expenses or big life changes await you. This can allow you to engage in more robust tax planning,...

Thursday, October 8, 2020

Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) and Health Savings Accounts (HSA) are designed to help you save money on medical costs by giving you access to a special savings account with tax benefits. Although these plans are very similar, they...

Thursday, October 8, 2020

Nearly one in three U.S. adults serves as the primary caregiver to a relative or other close loved one.1 With respite facilities throughout the country closed or operating on restricted hours as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, many...

Thursday, October 8, 2020

As the saying goes, "50 is the new 40"—and with Americans living longer than ever before, it's not unusual for those in their 50s, 60s, or even 70s to be in their peak earning years.1 But for those who would prefer the option of...

Wednesday, October 7, 2020

Market Blog Index Performance View expanded table. View expanded table. View expanded table. US and International Equities The S&P 500 Index gave back some gains in September after a strong five-month run, with most sectors finishing...

Thursday, October 1, 2020

Dear Valued Investor: Autumn has arrived, with students back in school, baseball playoffs beginning, and football in full swing. Life is trying to get back to as normal as possible despite the ongoing impact from COVID-19. While the...

Tuesday, September 29, 2020

The first presidential debate is tonight, September 29, with millions of people expected to tune in to see how each candidate handles the pressure. With tensions heightened amid an election that may be much closer than the polls...

Monday, September 21, 2020

We check in again today on some of the real-time economic data that LPL Research is monitoring to provide timely and valuable insights into the state of the US economy. Traditional economic data is often reported too slowly to pick up...

Wednesday, September 16, 2020

Global stocks look to rally. Most major Asian indexes were higher overnight following strong data on Chinese industrial activity and retail sales, although Japan’s Nikkei lagged. The Euro Stoxx 600 is higher at midday. The S&P...

Wednesday, September 9, 2020

Let's say that at the age of 25, you earned $35,000. If your salary increased at the average historical rate, you'd have earned nearly $2 million in total by the time you were 65.1,2 That might sound like a lot -- until you begin...

Wednesday, September 9, 2020

Now that you have decided that Medicare Advantage is an option worth exploring, you may be wondering what the next steps are to signing up. While the steps for signing up are simple, there are a few key points to remember during the...

Wednesday, September 9, 2020

Saving for a high-net-worth retirement is not always an easy process, but necessary if an investor with a high-net-worth wishes to enjoy the same lifestyle they were accustomed to while they were working. So how does one maintain their...

Wednesday, September 9, 2020

Economic Blog In the recent LPL Market Street View video, LPL Financial’s Chief Market Strategist Ryan Detrick discusses why the recession is likely over, making it one of the shortest recessions ever. Some reasons discussed...

Thursday, September 3, 2020

Dear Valued Investor: Back to school this year will be different. On the one hand, like other years, it marks the end of summer, the arrival of cooler weather, kids hitting the books again, and Labor Day gatherings. But unlike other...

Tuesday, September 1, 2020

This Sunday, Warren Buffett turns 90 years young. “What can we say about one of the greatest investment minds that hasn’t already been said?” asked LPL Financial Chief Market Strategist Ryan Detrick. “We...

Tuesday, August 18, 2020

As the COVID-related economic weakness that characterized the first half of the year subsides, growth has begun to return as trillions in fiscal stimulus have helped to stabilize consumer spending. Against a backdrop of improving labor...

Monday, August 17, 2020

With the new school year fast approaching, and coronavirus cases still continuing to rise many parents are growing concerned about what the upcoming school year will look like. For some schools, in-person learning is expected to happen...

Wednesday, August 12, 2020

As election season heats up, we are often presented with questions regarding market returns based on the political party composition of the White House and Congress. In our Election Preview Weekly Market Commentary, we took a closer...

Thursday, August 6, 2020

Open enrollment season is one of the shortest—in most cases, employees have only a few weeks to research their options and make a decision on things like their 401(k) contributions, health and dental insurance, disability...

Thursday, August 6, 2020

Do you have a will, investing in education or building a Freedom Fund? Amid the heat of mid-summer, do you remember your New Year’s resolutions regarding your personal financial planning? How are you coming with your to-do list?...

Thursday, August 6, 2020

Dear Valued Investor: The battle versus COVID-19 continues. The spread in some of the recent hotspots like California and Florida is slowing, while states in the Northeast and Midwest are now experiencing increases in cases. According...

Wednesday, August 5, 2020

Economic Blog The 10-year Treasury yield is historically low, so low that it could climb a full 1% before the end of the year and still be the lowest year-end yield on record, with room to spare. Historically low rates come with a...

Wednesday, July 29, 2020

Economic Blog After carving out the first part of a “V-shaped” recovery, the US economy has leveled off somewhat in response to the latest wave of COVID-19 infections. In this week’s Weekly Market Commentary: Stalling...

Wednesday, July 15, 2020

AT THE MIDPOINT of 2020, we’re mindful that it’s been an extremely challenging year so far in the United States and around the globe. We’re in the midst of a pandemic that continues to impact all of us, our...

Thursday, July 9, 2020

Financial Planning Update Subtract Inflation and It All Adds UpSome of us may remember the “good old days,” when gasoline prices were as low as 25¢ per gallon. Others may recall when a can of soda cost 15¢. But...

Tuesday, July 7, 2020

The Bloomberg Barclays US Aggregate Bond Index posted a solid total return of 2.9% in the second quarter of 2020, its eighth consecutive quarterly gain, and a relatively strong quarter for the broad investment-grade bond index...

Tuesday, June 30, 2020

Dear Valued Investor: The July Fourth holiday will be very different this year. Although it’s a time to enjoy family and friends, and maybe even watch some fireworks, social distancing and a new wave of COVID-19 cases also may...

Tuesday, June 23, 2020

Market Blog The US economy has made impressive progress in recent weeks. As the economy re-opens, the way we assess the recovery has changed. In March and April, we were looking for evidence that growth in COVID-19 cases was...

Thursday, June 11, 2020

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

Wednesday, June 10, 2020

You don’t need to file by April 15th and you should think about the benefits The U.S. Department of the Treasury is delaying the April 15th deadline to file and pay taxes by 90 days, giving individuals and businesses another 3...

Tuesday, June 9, 2020

Market Blog In probably one of the least surprising economic calls of all time, the Nation Bureau of Economic Research (NBER) officially declared an end to the longest expansion ever and the start of a new recession. As shown in the...

Thursday, June 4, 2020

Dear Valued Investor: As we look ahead to the summer months, we can’t help but think what a challenging year it’s been so far. At the same time, we’re encouraged by the resiliency and accelerated innovation among US...

Thursday, May 21, 2020

Dear Valued Investor: “Never confuse a single defeat with a final defeat.” — F. Scott Fitzgerald The economic struggles in our country are among the worst we’ve ever seen. In April, a record 20 million people...

Monday, May 11, 2020

While many people have been furloughed and others are working from home, public service workers have continued to show up at work every day as the coronavirus spreads through the United States. During Public Service Recognition Week...

Friday, May 8, 2020

Dear Valued Investor: Investors like labels for the economy and financial markets—many of them with the word “great” in them. The Great Depression. The Great Recession. The Great Lockdown. Well, we’ve moved into...

Wednesday, May 6, 2020

Heeding the words from a legend: “Buy when there is blood in the streets” How this late-winter, coronavirus-induced market turbulence affects you depends upon how old you are. For people in or near retirement, it is scary...

Wednesday, May 6, 2020

As the United States desperately tries to flatten the contagion curve for the coronavirus, many state governors have mandated the closure of an unprecedented number of businesses and issued stay-at-home orders to their citizens. The...

Wednesday, May 6, 2020

If you’re facing unemployment or concerned about the possibility of upcoming layoffs, there are some small, proactive steps you can take now to help make this difficult time more manageable. Build Your Network. It’s...

Wednesday, April 29, 2020

Dear Valued Investor: “Life is 10% what happens to you and 90% how you respond to it.” — Lou Holtz, Hall of Fame football coach As the battle against the COVID-19 pandemic continues, how we respond to it will...

Wednesday, April 15, 2020

There is no one-size-fits-all answer, but tactical shifting might make sense Wise investors alter their approaches as market cycles shift, from bull to bear to something in between. A consistent strategy might be far more risky than...

Wednesday, April 15, 2020

News about the coronavirus has flooded the media, saturated social media streams, and dominated most people's minds for the last few weeks, and the crisis shows minimal signs of abating soon. When worry about this pandemic has affected...

Monday, April 6, 2020

In late March 2020, as the number of novel coronavirus cases in the U.S. surged past 100,000, the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act was passed into law.1 The CARES Act provides around $2.2 trillion in aid to...

Thursday, April 2, 2020

As of February 26, 2020, the death toll from COVID-19 — the official name of the coronavirus first reported in Wuhan, China — passed 2,700, while the number of confirmed cases exceeded 80,000. Almost all were in China, most...

Monday, March 30, 2020

The United States has more cases of the coronavirus than any other country, and in an attempt to stop the spread of this disease, states have closed schools and businesses throughout the country. These unprecedented shutdowns have...

Thursday, March 26, 2020

Sell the news. Stocks reversed earlier losses this morning and traded higher this morning after the Senate approved the roughly $2 trillion fiscal stimulus package and markets digested the unprecedented surge in weekly jobless claims....

Thursday, March 19, 2020

With the rapid spreading of COVID-19, and more and more people either on self-quarantine or practicing social distancing, many of us are working from home. While working from home definitely has its perks – no commute! –...

Wednesday, March 18, 2020

Market Blog The indiscriminate selling continued yesterday, with one of the worst days in stock market history. Fears over the potential impact of COVID-19 (coronavirus) have led to one of the steepest sell-offs in history, rivaling...

Tuesday, March 17, 2020

3/17/2020 We want to share information about the steps we’ve taken to minimize any potential impact to our clients as a result of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) situation and maximize our efforts to keep our team and clients safe....

Tuesday, March 10, 2020

Dear Valued Investor: The tough times that global markets were experiencing due to the spread of COVID-19 (coronavirus) worsened this past weekend as a price war between Saudi Arabia and Russia resulted in sharply declining oil prices....

Friday, March 6, 2020

Dear Valued Investor: It’s been a tough week. The number of coronavirus cases have continued to increase globally, and new cases have been confirmed in the United States. Countries are making progress with containment, but those...

Wednesday, March 4, 2020

Market Blog In a move in which the timing was more compelling than the decision itself, the Federal Reserve (Fed) announced this morning that it unanimously decided to cut its policy rate by 50 basis points (0.5%) from the 1.5-1.75%...

Tuesday, March 3, 2020

When you invest in the stock market, you want to see growth, but unfortunately, in most cases, investments do not grow all the time. Inevitably, the market goes up and down, and to safeguard your potential for long-term growth, you...

Wednesday, February 26, 2020

February 25, 2020 Dear Valued Investor: Monday was a tough day in the stock market, with the S&P 500 Index down more than 3% as the number of coronavirus cases reported outside of China jumped. Monday’s losses reversed all of...

Wednesday, February 26, 2020

It’s no surprise that uncertainty around the impact of coronavirus (or Covid-19) has led to increased buying pressure in longer-maturity U.S. Treasuries, pushing yields lower, but the strength of the move has been unusual. While...

Wednesday, February 19, 2020

Stock markets modestly lower after renewed coronavirus concern. Apple’s announcement that the coronavirus would impact sales had international markets striking a cautious tone overnight, with the technology sector getting much...

Tuesday, February 18, 2020

Dear Valued Investor: The start of 2020 has brought increased stock market volatility. The uncharacteristically calm market environment we experienced for much of the past four months was bound to end, but identifying the catalyst for...

Wednesday, February 12, 2020

The financial media returned to a favorite topic in the last week, yield curve inversion, but we caution against getting caught up in the building frenzy. The Treasury yield curve inverts when short-term interest rates move above...

Tuesday, February 11, 2020

As temperatures warm up, trees begin budding, and the days get longer, you probably throw open your windows and think about spring cleaning your home. As you tackle washing windows, cleaning carpets, and sorting out the garage,...

Tuesday, February 11, 2020

YOU SHOULD PICK INVESTMENTS (AND TEAMS) SO YOU WIN MOST OF YOUR GAMES Sports metaphors and investing are natural pairs. A good way to look at portfolio management is the NCAA March Madness tournament. As with basketball, you should...

Wednesday, February 5, 2020

Economic Blog The 10-year U.S. Treasury yield moved to within .05% of its recent low on Friday, January 31, approaching the 1.47% mark set back in August 2019. Prospects of stabilizing global growth and progress on trade encouraged...

Friday, January 31, 2020

The Super Bowl Indicator suggests stocks rise for the full year when the Super Bowl winner has come from the original National Football League (now the NFC), but when an original American Football League (now the AFC) team has won,...

Wednesday, January 29, 2020

Market Blog Fears that the deadly coronavirus would spread further around the globe intensified Monday and led to the biggest one-day drop in the S&P 500 Index since October 8, 2019. In fact, it was the first time the index moved 1%...

Wednesday, January 22, 2020

Happy New Year! What a difference a year makes. One year ago the stock market was plunging and came perilously close to ending what has become the longest bull market ever recorded. In December 2018, dropping stocks were suggesting an...

Wednesday, January 22, 2020

ECONOMIC BLOG As the economic expansion caps its first decade, we thought it’d be a good time to check on LPL Research’s leading indicators in our Recession Watch Dashboard. As you can see in our latest update and in the...

Wednesday, January 15, 2020

Consumer inflationary pressures grew at a healthy, but manageable rate in December 2019. The core Consumer Price Index (CPI), which excludes food and energy, rose 2.3% year over year last month, around the fastest pace of the economic...

Tuesday, January 14, 2020

The largest overhaul to retirement plans since 2006 is complicated The Setting Every Community Up for Retirement Enhancement Act of 2019 – the SECURE Act – passed the House of Representatives earlier this year and was...

Monday, January 13, 2020

Insurance is an important element of any sound financial plan. Different types of insurance protect you and your loved ones in different ways against the cost of accidents, illness, disability, and death. What Are Your Insurance...

Monday, January 13, 2020

Americans, it seems, are spenders. Personal savings rates are low and many people spend beyond their means. If you're among those Americans who can't seem to save, it might be time to create a budget. A budget allows you to understand...

Monday, January 13, 2020

Retirement is inevitable, but knowing exactly when to do so is often unclear. No matter when you actually begin your retirement, you’ll benefit from planning your post-work life as early as possible. According to Gallup, the...

Monday, January 13, 2020

There are many prescriptions to get to financial health. Here are four proven strategies to help you get there. Setting and sticking to a budget In 2017, 78% of Americans said they were living paycheck to paycheck, up from 75% three...

Tuesday, January 7, 2020

The U.S. airstrike that killed the top Iranian military commander last week was a major escalation in Mideast tensions. In fact, it would be difficult to overstate the geopolitical significance of this action. Iran likely will...

Tuesday, December 17, 2019

Economic Blog December 17, 2019 December has been widely viewed as a strong month for stocks, with this year following suit so far. What many probably don’t realize, however, is the majority of the gains have taken place late in...

Wednesday, December 11, 2019

The Federal Reserve’s (Fed) final policy meeting of 2019 starts today and will conclude tomorrow with the release of the Fed’s policy statement, updated economic projections, and a press conference by Fed Chair Jerome...

Wednesday, December 11, 2019

In times of crisis, you don't want to be shaking pennies out of a piggy bank. Having a financial safety net in place can ensure that you're protected when a financial emergency arises. One way to accomplish this is by setting up a cash...

Tuesday, December 3, 2019

Hindsight is 20/20, but finding clarity in future uncertainty can be fuzzy. AT LPL RESEARCH, as we look forward to the year 2020 and a new decade, some key trends and market signals will be important to watch, including progress on U...

Wednesday, November 27, 2019

Why early retirement eludes most people and how to overcome bad habits Indianapolis Colts quarterback Andrew Luck stunned the world when he announced his retirement from the National Football League at the age of 29. But who...

Tuesday, November 19, 2019

“We’re going streaking!” Frank The Tank in Old School As the bull market continues to make new highs, the past few weeks have seen some amazing market streaks. Here are three that have caught our attention. The S&P...

Friday, November 15, 2019

Kelly and Bob regularly set aside a small portion of their budget for charitable donations. In addition to feeling good about supporting a number of worthy causes, they’ve been able to deduct the value of their charitable gifts...

Wednesday, November 13, 2019

The S&P 500 Index has closed higher five consecutive weeks, making six new all-time highs along the way. There now have been 19 new highs in 2019, tying the number we saw last year. There’s no doubt that this bull market has been...

Wednesday, November 6, 2019

“An object in motion tends to remain in motion along a straight line unless acted upon by an outside force.” Sir Isaac Newton What a year it has been for the bulls. The S&P 500 Index recently made four more new highs, and...

Wednesday, October 30, 2019

The Federal Reserve Bank (Fed) is widely expected to cut interest rates on Wednesday, October 30, which would be the third cut this year after nine consecutive hikes. The current fed funds rate target is 1.75–2%, with a 25 basis...

Tuesday, October 29, 2019

Tax planning can be more advantageous when done during the year and well in advance of year’s end. Opportunities may exist for you to minimize tax liability, which could leave more income for you and/or your family. Generally,...

Wednesday, October 23, 2019

The United Kingdom’s (U.K.) withdrawal from the European Union (E.U.), or Brexit, is stumbling along, and another delay looks increasingly likely. The U.K. Parliament’s “Super Saturday” voting session last...

Wednesday, October 16, 2019

The debate over the United Kingdom’s (U.K.) withdrawal from the European Union (EU), or Brexit, is reaching another milepost in what could be an action-packed week. Talks between the U.K. government and the EU have entered...

Tuesday, October 15, 2019

The stories are everywhere: a young person from a poverty-stricken background becomes a sports phenomenon. The athlete suddenly makes millions in salary and endorsements. Cut to five years later and many of those same athletes are...

Tuesday, October 15, 2019

What does fantasy football have to do with investing? It teaches you to avoid Nick Foles-like fund money managers, whose one-time Super Bowl achievements often decline the following year. And it might also suggest that you avoid Tom...

Tuesday, October 15, 2019

As the traditional giving season approaches, there is one important item to add to your to do list: Create a holiday budget. Before the gift shopping and wrapping begins, take control of your wallet through financial preparation....

Tuesday, October 15, 2019

If you're new to investing, you may encounter some unfamiliar jargon. Understanding the following terms may help you become a more confident investor. Portfolio An investment portfolio is a collection of investments owned by an...

Tuesday, October 15, 2019

Investing in your own business makes sense; many businesses achieve significant growth each year. However, when you consider that many small businesses fold every year, it becomes clear that banking your retirement solely on the...

Wednesday, October 9, 2019

“The economy, stupid” — Phrase campaign strategist James Carville used to help Bill Clinton get elected in 1992. As Carville noted ahead of the 1992 election, the recession in 1990 and 1991 was top of mind for many...

Monday, October 7, 2019

Summer has turned to fall, and there’s already a little chill in the air. Three-quarters of the year is behind us now, and both stock and bond markets have had a strong year so far, although we expect to see regular — but...

Thursday, October 3, 2019

Becoming a professional is an athlete’s dream come true. Once under contract, there will be an onrush of new aspects of the game to master, both on and off the field. One critical but often overlooked area is personal finance...

Wednesday, October 2, 2019

U.S. manufacturing activity fell to a 10-year low, dragged down by a weakening global economy. The Institute for Supply Management’s (ISM) Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) fell to 47.6 in September, the lowest level since...

Wednesday, September 25, 2019

As shown in the LPL Chart of the Day, the 10-year Treasury yield jumped 34 basis points (0.34%) in the week ending September 13, then gave back half that gain in a 17 basis point (0.17%) slide last week. The benchmark yield...

Thursday, September 19, 2019

“History does not repeat itself, but it rhymes.” Mark Twain As expected, the Federal Reserve’s (Fed) policy committee cut its policy rate by 25 basis points (.25%) to a target range of 1.75%–2%. This comes on...

Wednesday, September 18, 2019

The Federal Reserve’s (Fed) policy committee starts its sixth two-day policy meeting of the year today. At 2:00 p.m. ET Wednesday, following the meeting’s conclusion, the Fed will announce its rate decision and release a...

Wednesday, September 18, 2019

Consumer inflation has accelerated recently, bucking disinflation and deflation concerns that had permeated financial markets earlier this year. In August, the core Consumer Price Index (CPI) increased at least 0.3% for a third...

Tuesday, September 17, 2019

Linda and Peter are worried about their financial future. "We want our one-year-old son, Raymond, to go to college, but we're concerned that in 17 years, the cost might be more than we can afford," says Peter. "We also need to save...

Tuesday, September 17, 2019

Go out into your yard and dig a big hole. Every month, throw $50 into it, but don't take any money out until you're ready to buy a house, send your child to college, or retire. It sounds a little crazy, doesn't it? But that's what...

Monday, September 9, 2019

Dear Valued Investor: The Dog Days of Summer were on full display this past month, as a variety of concerns pushed stocks and bond yields lower. After reaching new record highs in late July, the S&P 500 Index dropped approximately 1.8%...

Wednesday, September 4, 2019

When you refinance your mortgage, you take out a new home loan and use some or all of the proceeds to pay off the existing one. Why refinance your mortgage? There are a variety of reasons why you may want to consider refinancing your...

Wednesday, September 4, 2019

First and foremost, our thoughts are with all of those that were impacted by Hurricane Dorian over the Labor Day holiday and all those that are still in its path. Many have asked us what stocks tend to do after a major hurricane hits...

Wednesday, August 28, 2019

Business investment remains a critical component for this economic expansion. Capital expenditures (capex) drive productivity gains (more output per hour worked), which enables economic growth while keeping inflation contained. That...

Friday, August 23, 2019

Keeping your cool can be hard to do when the market goes on one of its periodic roller-coaster rides. It's useful to have strategies in place that prepare you both financially and psychologically to handle market volatility. Here are...

Monday, August 19, 2019

In case you haven't noticed, it's tax time again. You have your 1040 package, your W-2, and various 1099 forms. And, with April 15th fast approaching, it is time to get down to business. A glance at the following questions and answers...

Monday, August 19, 2019

Conventional wisdom says that what goes up, must come down. But even if you view market volatility as a normal occurrence, it can be tough to handle when it's your money at stake. Though there's no foolproof way to handle the ups and...

Monday, August 19, 2019

When you refinance your mortgage, you take out a new home loan and use some or all of the proceeds to pay off the existing one. WHY REFINANCE YOUR MORTGAGE? There are a variety of reasons why you may want to consider refinancing your...

Monday, August 19, 2019

As more Americans shoulder the responsibility of funding their own retirement, many rely increasingly on their 401(k) retirement plans to provide the means to pursue their investment goals. That's because 401(k) plans offer a variety...

Monday, August 19, 2019

Financial planning is more than just a good idea. Research has consistently shown that people who have financial plans -- and who work with financial advisors -- save and invest far more and are nearly twice as likely to feel on track...

Monday, August 19, 2019

If you’re divorced or separated, money management will become an important part of your life. While it may be true that money can’t buy or ensure happiness, your ability to manage your finances can play a large role in your...

Monday, August 19, 2019

As time goes by, planning for a child’s college education is more challenging than ever before. The saving or investing method you choose will depend on your child’s age, as well as your financial resources. Other...

Wednesday, August 14, 2019

Consumer inflation has surged back after a strong quarter of U.S. consumer demand. As shown in the LPL Chart of the Day, Consumer Inflation Picks Up in July, the core Consumer Price Index (CPI), which excludes food and energy prices,...

Wednesday, August 7, 2019

U.S. stocks have hit another trade-induced summer storm. The S&P 500 Index fell 3% on Monday, its worst day since December 2018. The index is now about 6% from record highs in U.S. stocks’ worst bout of volatility since May. As...

Tuesday, August 6, 2019

As we discussed here last week, August has been one of the worst months for stocks in recent decades. After last week’s more than 3% drop in the S&P 500 Index, seasonality could be taking hold once again in U.S. equities. Outside...

Thursday, August 1, 2019

BEAVER, PA – Aug. 1, 2019 – Nicholas Raught, an LPL Financial Advisor with Cottrill Arbutina Wealth Management Group, has been elected to the board of directors of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Beaver County. Raught leads the...

Wednesday, July 31, 2019

It could be a momentous week for U.S. monetary policy and the Treasury yield curve. The Federal Reserve (Fed) is expected to cut its policy interest rate for the first time in 10 years July 31. As shown in the LPL Chart of the Day,...

Wednesday, July 24, 2019

U.S. stocks have powered back to record highs, and they could benefit more from a relatively expensive fixed income market. As shown in the LPL Chart of the Day, Stocks Appear Historically Cheap Relative to Bonds, S&P 500 Index stocks...

Wednesday, July 17, 2019

Central banks are back in easing mode, to the dismay of coupon-clipping fixed income investors. As shown in the LPL Chart of the Day, Global Central Banks Back in Easing Mode, central banks around the world are embarking on a marked...

Friday, July 12, 2019

Here are the facts. Generally speaking, women earn less than men, live longer than men, and often take time out of the workforce to have children and/or to care for an aging parent or sick loved one. The potential consequence of these...

Friday, July 12, 2019

Most millennials define adulthood as being on their own financially, but the majority still depend on Mom and Dad for money, even in into 30s, according to a new Merrill Lynch/Age Wave survey given exclusively to USA TODAY. Seven in...

Friday, July 12, 2019

More women are working and taking charge of their own retirement planning than ever before. What does retirement mean to you? Do you dream of traveling? Pursuing a hobby? Volunteering your time, or starting a new career or business?...

Thursday, July 11, 2019

Social Security is a critical component of the retirement financial strategy for many Americans, so before you begin taking it, you should consider three important questions. The answers may affect whether you make the most of this...

Thursday, July 11, 2019

Everyone needs to determine their financial staying power Some life transitions, such as a career change or marriage, are planned, but a job loss or divorce can be sudden and unexpected. One common thread that accompanies all...

Wednesday, July 10, 2019

The June jobs report was solid. Nonfarm payrolls rose 224,000, according to data released July 5. As shown in the LPL Chart of the Day, Strong June Payrolls Gain Surprises Investors, the rise in jobs last month handily beat estimates...

Wednesday, July 3, 2019

The 10-year Treasury yield has been flirting with dipping below 2% throughout the later half of June and into the start of July. As our LPL Chart of the Day, Will Trade Truce Help 2% 10-Year Treasury Yield Hold?, shows, the yield has...

Wednesday, June 26, 2019

We are pleased to announce the release of the LPL Research Midyear Outlook 2019: FUNDAMENTAL: How to Focus on What Really Matters in the Markets, with investment insights and market guidance through the end of 2019. LPL Research...

Monday, June 24, 2019

At some point in your life, you probably have heard about the importance of developing a budget. But, why is a budget so important? Perhaps you simply spend what you must and save whatever’s left over. Or, perhaps you spend all...

Monday, June 24, 2019

Every year, millions of Americans celebrate the holidays with traditions such as throwing parties and buying gifts for family and friends. Unfortunately, many also participate in a tradition that lands them in debt -- spending more...

Monday, June 24, 2019

Every year, millions of Americans celebrate the holidays with traditions such as throwing parties and buying gifts for family and friends. Unfortunately, many also participate in a tradition that lands them in debt -- spending more...

Monday, June 24, 2019

It's generally a good idea to review your employer-sponsored retirement savings plan at least once each year and when major life changes occur. If you haven't given your plan a thorough review within the last 12 months, now may be a...

Monday, June 24, 2019

Making decisions about your retirement account can seem overwhelming, especially if you feel unsure about your knowledge of investments. However, the following basic rules can help you make smarter choices regardless of whether you...

Monday, June 24, 2019

The end of a marriage is also the beginning of a new financial life. Reconsidering your financial arrangements -- whether or not your income will be reduced -- should be a priority as you adjust to your new circumstances. Some of the...

Monday, June 24, 2019

Parents looking to take advantage of the many benefits of a 529 plan will want to know the full details on which educational expenses qualify for tax-free distribution status -- and which do not.1 In Publication 970, the IRS gives...

Monday, June 24, 2019

The latest research suggests that divorce rates in the U.S. have been falling in recent decades. Still, many people face the difficult crossroads that comes when their marriage ends.1 Getting a divorce is a painful, emotional process....

Friday, June 21, 2019

One extracurricular activity that every student can master while in college is personal money management. Typically, a student’s daily spending is done on an improvised basis, meaning that overspending is often the norm rather...