There’s a famous saying about a hurricane starting from a butterfly flapping its wings on the other side of the world. That “butterfly effect” is certainly happening in terms of the Chinese property market influence on financial markets around the world. (more…)
There is probably nothing that pulls at the heart-strings more than a sick child or a child in need. Imagine getting the news that your child has cancer. Its tough for any parent to even think about that, let alone live it. Through the OneBlood organization and the Little Heros Campaign here in Charlotte, 40 mobile unit blood drives have been set up throughout the month of September (and into early October) to allow each of us to help save a child who may be fighting the battle of his life … or fighting for his life. Managing Director Ed Doughty and Financial Advisor Jason Dimitriou both donated their blood in honor of Liam Flynn, the young son of personal friend who is actually the one who helped to organize the month-long blood drive. Donating blood is such a simple way to “give”, but the results of your giving can literally help to save a life. We were grateful for the opportunity to give, and would encourage everyone to considering donating to the Little Heros Blood Drive. You can simply enter your zip-code and find a listing of all the remaining blood drives near year. Go to: Little Heros Blood Drive
Talking about “the end” is not the easiest thing to do, and this is one reason why some people never adequately plan for the transfer of their wealth. Those who do create estate plans with help from financial and legal professionals sometimes leave their heirs out of the conversation. (more…)
Most likely, you’ve heard what’s brewing in Washington, D.C. called by one of these names. The Build Back Better Act. Or the $3.5 trillion budget reconciliation bill. Or the Jobs and Economic Recovery Plan for Working Families. But could it affect your taxes? (more…)
Healthcare can be one of the priciest yet essential parts of life’s journey. And yet, many struggle to utilize the financial tools that may help. Take Health Saving Account (HSAs), for example. (more…)
If you are feeling a bit confused about the direction of inflation, you’re in good company. Some of the best and brightest economists in the country are having a tough time getting their arms around the current inflation trends.
The most recent Producer Price Index reading came in above economists’ estimates at a record level of 8.3% compared with a year earlier. Producer prices can be an indicator of future price changes at the consumer level.
One way to gauge inflation is to watch the people responsible for managing inflation – the Federal Reserve’s Board of Governors. In recent weeks, several governors have indicated they are comfortable with how the economy is recovering. So comfortable that they appear ready to slightly change course with monetary policy in the next few months.2
Does that mean inflation will be lower in six to nine months? Time will tell, but keeping an eye on the Fed’s actions may be one of the best ways to see what’s next for prices.
Remember, inflation is just one factor to consider when making adjustments to a portfolio. But if you’re getting uncomfortable, please reach out. We welcome the chance to speak with you if you see higher prices.
For more insights and resources, be sure to sign up for our Weekly Market Commentary. Follow our YouTube channel where we regularly post our Epic Market Minute videos. Follow us on LinkedIn, or like us on Facebook. And as always, please don’t hesitate to reach out to a dedicated service professional at Epic Capital.
The bull market continues, with the S&P 500 Index now up seven months in a row. Stocks have impressively gained 20% year-to-date, with the S&P 500 making 53 new all-time highs before the end of August—another new record. All of this has happened with very little volatility, as the S&P 500 hasn’t had so much as a 5% pullback since last October. (more…)
It can be incredibly difficult to make sense of data. A report coming from one body may tell you one thing, and another report might seem to offer a wholly different perspective. (more…)
The stock market notched its 7th straight month of gains in August, and the Standard & Poor’s 500 index has set 53 new highs so far in 2021.1 But stormy clouds may be on the horizon as we roll into the September market weakness effect. (more…)
Your workplace retirement account can play a critical role in your overall retirement strategy. However, some have gone further with the accounts than others, especially recently. (more…)
Few terms in personal finance are as important, or used as frequently, as “risk.” Nevertheless, few terms are as imprecisely defined. Generally, when financial advisors or the media talk about investment risk, their focus is on the historical price volatility of the asset or investment under discussion.
As Americans get their grills and beach chairs ready for the July 4th holiday, the stock market and the weather across much of the country have both been on heaters. Stocks and bonds continue to effectively navigate a complex policy landscape shaped by evolving trade dynamics, geopolitical tensions, and fiscal stimulus. The market’s resilience in … Continue reading “Market Update – America Gets Record High Stock Prices for Its Birthday”
Birthdays may seem less important as you grow older. They may not offer the impact of watershed moments such as getting a driver’s license at 16 and voting at 18. But beginning at age 50, there are several key birthdays that can affect your tax situation, health-care eligibility, and retirement benefits.
During times like these when geopolitical headlines can be unsettling for investors, we at LPL Research like to remind ourselves of one of our key investing principles. Markets have always faced challenges —ranging from geopolitical conflicts and economic downturns to natural disasters, political upheaval and health crises. These events often trigger short-term volatility and shake … Continue reading “Why Long Term Investing Beats Selling in Volatile Times”
Are you concerned about the inheritance taxes your heirs may have to pay? Then you may want to consider creating charitable lead trusts.
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