Investing

Federal Reserve policy has been a key driver of markets over the past few years. It’s not surprising to investors that changes in policy direction have resulted in market swings, most notably in 2022 when the Fed began to hike rates, and again last year when investors anticipated Fed rate cuts.

When it comes to financial planning, it's important to recognize what we can and cannot control. We can control our own behavior, make thoughtful financial plans, and adjust our strategies as needed. However, we don't control the economic cycle, market movements, or policy decisions that impact the broader financial landscape.

Investor concerns over the recent underperformance of technology stocks have raised questions about the broader stock market. While strong returns among artificial intelligence stocks have supported portfolios over the past few years, they have also raised questions about the sustainability of the market rally.

Investors have faced several market concerns early in the year around tech stocks, interest rates, and government policy. Among these factors, it’s no surprise that trade policy has emerged as particularly significant for markets.

President Trump’s inauguration marks a significant political shift amid market and economic uncertainty. The stock market had rallied as much as 5.3% with dividends in the month following the November election, before giving up about half of those gains at the start of the year.

The start of the year is the perfect time to prioritize both personal and financial well-being. While physical health often takes center stage in New Year’s resolutions, financial fitness deserves equal attention. This is especially true after two years of strong market returns and changing economic conditions.

When it comes to managing our investments, we can be our own worst enemies. Behavioral finance research has revealed how emotional and cognitive biases can lead investors to make financial decisions that harm rather than benefit them.

After a historic year, investors have much to be thankful for this holiday season. Despite periods of uncertainty around the Federal Reserve, the presidential election, and geopolitical conflicts, the stock market has delivered exceptional returns in 2024.

The national debt is quickly approaching $36 trillion, according to the U.S. Treasury, a fact that has fueled concerns among investors and economists. This means that the federal debt has nearly quadrupled since before the 2008 global financial crisis, and has grown every year since 2001.

While the political world will focus on the election for some time, financial markets have already shifted their attention to the next administration’s policies, Federal Reserve rate cuts, and the underlying economy.

For those in or approaching retirement age, there is nothing more important than building a portfolio that can support a long, fulfilling retirement. Given the difficult inflationary conditions of the past few years, the risk that worries most retirees continues to be outliving their savings.

Although markets have performed well this year, some investors may be nervous about upcoming events such as the presidential election, the Fed’s next rate decision, and the state of the economy.