Investing Guide

The market has been buzzing with activity since Election Day, as investors process a complex mix of news and policy implications. This flurry of market moves, across stocks, bonds, and various asset classes, reflects the current uncertainty and excitement in financial markets. But while plenty of theories about these moves circulate, not all hold up to scrutiny. As a financial advisor, I find that understanding the why behind market moves is essential. So let’s break down three core takeaways on what’s really going on in the market, why recent events…

In today’s fast-paced world, building wealth can feel like an insurmountable task. Between managing daily responsibilities, staying on top of work, and squeezing in personal time, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by complex financial terms and investment options like derivatives, yield curves, and REITs. You might wonder, “How do I start investing without becoming a finance expert or needing hours every week to manage my money?” The good news? You don’t need to be a seasoned investor to create a strong foundation for wealth. With some straightforward steps, you can…

Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) have become increasingly popular among investors due to their versatility, low costs, and potential for diversification. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced investor, ETFs can play a key role in your investment portfolio, offering access to a wide range of asset classes and sectors. But with so many ETFs available, building a well-rounded portfolio might feel like a daunting task. Don’t worry—this blog post will guide you through a straightforward, five-step process for constructing a portfolio entirely made up of ETFs. By following these steps, you’ll…

Investing is often portrayed as a way to “get rich” or “beat the market.” However, the most successful investors understand that investing is much more than that—it’s an essential part of achieving financial wellness. Financial wellness means having the ability to meet your needs, support those who rely on you, and achieve goals that extend beyond simply paying bills and managing debt. By adopting the right habits, even in challenging market conditions, you can build a more secure financial future. Here are six key secrets that highly successful investors use…

As we approach the second half of 2024, the stock market has shown remarkable resilience and growth, with the S&P 500® posting an impressive year-to-date return of nearly 12% by late May. This performance comes despite higher-than-expected inflation and robust economic growth, which have raised concerns about potential delays in interest rate cuts by the Federal Reserve. Amid these dynamics, Fidelity strategist Denise Chisholm offers a bullish outlook on several key areas. Here are three investing ideas to consider for the remainder of 2024 based on her insights. 1. US…

With the S&P 500 hitting record highs, it’s easy to become fixated solely on the performance of these 500 US-listed stocks and overlook the myriad of investment opportunities that exist beyond them. While stocks have indeed been the top-performing asset class in 10 of the last 15 years, it’s crucial to note that in 15 of the past 25 years, alternative investments have outperformed stocks, even during years when stocks returned close to their historical average of almost 10%. As we embark upon the second quarter of 2024, it’s imperative…

In the world of finance, the decision to invest can often feel like a daunting leap into the unknown, especially for those who prefer the perceived safety of cash and short-term investments. However, as Naveen Malwal, CFA, institutional portfolio manager with Fidelity’s Strategic Advisers, aptly puts it, sometimes successful investing requires embracing the counterintuitive. While the stock market’s volatility may initially deter investors, focusing on the growth potential of stocks can lead to significant financial rewards in the long run. Here are three compelling reasons why investing in stocks, bonds,…

Introduction: As we embark on a new year, the economic and corporate landscapes appear robust, exceeding expectations set by many economists. However, despite the positive outlook, the financial markets are no stranger to surprises. In this comprehensive blog post, we’ll explore five potential surprises that could shape the investment landscape in 2024. From inflation dynamics to Federal Reserve policies, economic risks, productivity trends, and the performance of high-quality US large-cap companies, let’s delve into the intricacies that might unfold over the course of the year. Inflation: A Lingering Challenge While…

As we step into the new year, it’s essential for investors to reflect on the remarkable events that shaped the financial landscape in 2023 and strategize for what lies ahead in 2024. Three major forces – Artificial Intelligence (AI), Taylor Swift, and the Federal Reserve (Fed) – played pivotal roles in steering the economy and the markets over the past year. Now, the question is whether the momentum is done, or if there’s more to come. The 2023 Rollercoaster: AI, Taylor Swift, and the Fed The year 2023 witnessed an…

Introduction: As we approach the end of 2023, the financial markets are experiencing a resurgence reminiscent of spring, with both stocks and bonds making robust gains. The prospect of the Federal Reserve concluding its prolonged rate-hiking campaign has injected confidence into investors, paving the way for a potential continuation of the bull market into 2024. While uncertainties always loom, the optimism surrounding a strong Santa rally and the possibility of rate cuts in the coming year paint a promising picture. In this in-depth analysis, we will explore the factors driving…