As we continue to deal with record-high inflation and economic instability, you might be wondering how you should manage your investments. It can feel disheartening to check on your portfolio and see poor returns, but don’t panic; we’ll cover why it’s better to weather the turbulent times to get the long-term rewards. Historically speaking, stocks have done well over time, even during periods of Continue Reading
Financial Adjustments to Hedge Against Inflation
The U.S. inflation rate came in at 8.6% at the end of May, which was the largest annual increase since December 1981. Unfortunately, high prices won’t disappear overnight. Inflation comes down slowly, usually after a period of monetary policy changes by the Federal Reserve. That’s why we’ve seen gradual interest rate increases this year. The hope is that they will mitigate the rapid inflation, and Continue Reading
2022 Finances: What to Expect This Year
After two years of the pandemic, we are seeing the short- and long-term effects it’s had on the economy. Based on how 2021 went, the year ahead will have its own set of challenges. Here are some potential obstacles to watch in 2022, and how to navigate them: 2022 Finances and Inflation Inflation made headlines in 2021, and it will continue in 2022. Prices rose seven percent in December of 2021, Continue Reading
What the New Stimulus Package Means for Business Owners
With just days left of 2020, another stimulus package is on its way as part of the omnibus spending package. The document is over 5,000 pages long - you can check it out here for some light reading. Here are some of the ways it could impact business owners: Deducting expenses with the Payment Protection Program For business owners who received the Payment Protection Program loan, there was some Continue Reading
5 Financial Skills You Should Have in 2020
2020 has thrown most people - and their finances - for a loop. This year that has really emphasized why we put financial safeguards in place, and what can happen if we don’t. But the year’s not over yet. There is still time to finish out 2020 strong, prepared for whatever next year has in store. Here are five financial skills to brush up on right now: Financial Skills for 2020: Saving like a Continue Reading
Managing Investments During a Financial Crisis
A well-balanced portfolio can withstand a financial crisis and still end up strong in the end. A healthy portfolio accounts for things like recessions and upswings. That’s why you include stocks for growth and bonds for stability. There are many ways to handle market volatility without damaging your portfolio. But what about now? In the midst of the coronavirus crisis, we are dealing with a ton Continue Reading
The CARES Act: Should You Apply for Small Business Aid?
Congress’s Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act aims to help Americans weather the financial storm caused by the virus. The first round of financing ran out quickly, but Congress has passed another round. Some of the highlights of the CARES act include: Money for individuals: Tax-paying Americans will receive a direct deposit for up to $1,200 if single, and $2,400 if Continue Reading
Steps to Take if You’ve Suffered a Financial Blow
If you've suffered a financial blow recently, you're not alone. There is a lot of upheaval going on in the world right now. Many people are finding themselves out of a job, or unable to work right now, or unsure whether they will have a source of income after things have settled down. Here are some steps you can take to safeguard your money: DO: Apply for Unemployment If you did lose your job, Continue Reading
Coronavirus: Dealing with Financial Uncertainty
The novel coronavirus - which has infected more than 170,000 people worldwide and is responsible for more than 6,500 deaths - is spreading around the globe. Now that it has made its way to the U.S., many people are preparing for a potential disruption to everyday life. You know the usual: wash your hands frequently, stay away from others who are sick, avoid traveling to infected areas. But how Continue Reading
How to Handle Market Volatility
If the stock market downturn at the end of 2018 has you feeling jumpy, hang in there. There has been a lot of speculation about how the markets will fare in the new year, and even some concern about a looming recession. Regardless of how the year pans out, remember that playing the long game often yields better results for investors. Here are some tips for what to do when the market Continue Reading