Investing in The Bizarro World
We’re now entering the phase of the investing cycle I like to refer to as, “The Bizarro World.” Of course, I’m making a pop culture reference to the fictional planet appearing in comic books published by DC Comics. In the Bizarro World, everything and everyone is essentially the exact opposite of what you’ll find here on earth.
A World of Opportunity in Equities
As 2019 approaches, and with US stocks outperforming non-US stocks in recent years, some investors have again turned their attention towards the role that global diversification plays in their portfolios.
What’s a Flattening Yield Curve?
What is a yield curve, and more importantly, why are stock investors interested in its shape? A yield curve gives a snapshot of how yields vary across bonds of similar credit quality, but different maturities, at a specific point in time.
As An Investor, I’m Thankful This Season
Although 2018 has not been fun for investors, this Thanksgiving I’m thankful for the decade-long bull market and economic expansion. Investors who stuck to their financial plans and stayed invested are closer to achieving their long-term goals.
Market Downturns – Never Fun, Never Easy
The stock market closed last Friday over 9% below its recent peak and is now negative for the year. Interest rates have retreated, with the 10-year yield falling to 3.08%. Many sectors are in or near correction territory, including Financials, Industrials, Materials, and Communication Services.
3rd Quarter 2018 Newsletter
Our 3rd Quarter 2018 Newsletter features articles on the markets, investing, and financial planning. We hope you find them helpful.
Maintaining Composure in Choppy Markets
A great quote on maintaining composure in volatile situations is often attributed to the boxer Mike Tyson: “everyone has a plan until they get punched in the face.” With the S&P 500 tumbling -4.1% last week, many investors may feel a bit roughed up.
Returns Have You Scratching Your Head?
If you’ve been paying attention to your portfolio’s performance this year, you may be scratching your head as to why the returns have been lackluster. We get it – we’re invested in the same positions as you. Let’s delve into how our primary global asset classes are performing this year.
Can Financial Synergies Manage My 401(k) Plan?
Yes, indeed we can! We are pleased to announce an expansion of our service to manage your employer’s retirement plan. This includes 401(k), 403(b), 457 deferred compensation plans and more.
The Myth of the Income Portfolio
We’re sometimes asked by potential clients, looking to generate income in retirement, if we will construct for them an “income portfolio,” enabling them to live off the dividends and interest without dipping into principal.
The ABCs of Education Investing
With school back in session in most of the country, many parents are likely thinking about how best to prepare for their children’s future college expenses. Now is a good time to sharpen your pencil for a few important lessons before heading back into the investing classroom to tackle the issue.
The Longest Bull Market in History
The current bull market is now officially the longest on record, surpassing the 1990’s bull run. Over the past nine and a half years, the S&P 500 index has risen 325%, the Dow Jones Industrial Average 294%, and the NASDAQ Composite 526%.
Where’s the Value?
From 1928-2017 the value premium (value stock returns minus growth stock returns) in the US had a positive annualized return of approximately 3.5%. In seven of the last 10 calendar years, however, the value premium in the US has been negative.
What it Means to be a Fiduciary
Financial Synergies Wealth Advisors is an independent Registered Investment Advisor (RIA). More importantly, we are a Fiduciary – legally and ethically bound to act in the best interests of our clients. Most financial advisors are not fiduciaries.
The Real Impact of Inflation
When the prices of goods and services increase over time, consumers can buy fewer of them with every dollar they have saved. This erosion of the real purchasing power of wealth is called inflation. Inflation is an important element of investing.
