Uniting in marriage also means the joining of financial futures. Suddenly, decision-making is done by a team of two. Often, spouses are not of the same mindset when it comes to how to spend, save and plan for their future. For instance, it isn’t unusual for one spouse to be more of a spender and the other a saver. Typically, however, it isn’t the difference in personalities or priorities that leads to money issues within a marriage. Rather, it’s a lack of communication and an absence of agreed-upon ground rules. Below are some tips to help with communication and planning…

Please find the next blog in our monthly series that provides a review of the prior month’s market data, the state of the economy and the global financial markets. Global Economy: Under the cover of disappearing volatility, with the CBOE’s VIX index nearly 30% below its long-term average, the generalized rally in risk assets continued through March. With trade discussions between the US and China continuing to develop, concerns over tariff escalation are being increasingly discounted. Current activity indicators in major economies, particularly within China as a result of recent stimulus, are showing tentative signs of stabilization. The Brexit saga…

After a series of financial crises early in the 20th century, there was a need for centralized control of the U.S. monetary system. The passage of the Federal Reserve Act on December 23, 1913 created our central banking system with three primary objectives: maximizing employment, stabilizing prices, and moderating long-term interest rates. The first two, commonly referred to as the Federal Reserve’s “dual mandate,” share a history of interconnectedness given the economic realities of supply and demand for labor, goods, and services. With stable prices, it follows that long-term interest rates should be moderate. Measuring Inflation Can Be Complicated The…

When the question of owning a home versus renting arises for our adult children and grandchildren, we can pass along our knowledge as homeowners to help them figure out how ready or not they are. Discussion points to consider are: Determine if the young adult is ready for the added responsibility Check your credit before beginning the home buying process to ensure nothing is hindering your credit score. Get pre-approved for a mortgage to help identify any potential obstacles as well as make yourself more competitive in the market. Write out a list of “must haves,” “nice to haves,” and…

Please find the next blog in our monthly series that provides a review of the prior month’s market data, the state of the economy and the global financial markets. Global Economy: Relative calm permeated the globe, sustaining the rally in risk assets throughout February. Ongoing trade discussions between the US and China delayed tariff escalation and fostered hopes for a deal. Continued efforts by Prime Minster May to negotiate a workable deal/extension between the UK and the EU lowered the odds of a “hard Brexit.” Broadly positive measures of the US and global economy also helped sentiment readings improve. Issues…