Articles
These original articles are posted here to illustrate our philosophy and thinking.
Trade Tensions Rise: How New Tariffs Could Reshape the U.S. Economy
Yesterday, on March 3, 2025, as it became clear the deadline for a tariff deal would pass without a deal, the S&P 500 index fell by 1.8%, reflecting investor concerns over the economic repercussions of the trade policies.
Interest Rates Still on the Market’s Mind
In 2024, the initial view was that the Fed would have several cuts throughout the year. However, inflation remains stubbornly high, and each inflation report has caused the Fed to hold rates steady with no cuts in sight for the time being.
New Year, New Law
Yes, it is true, Congress found some common ground and accomplished something that is (mostly) beneficial to taxpayers. Just before ringing in the new year, President Biden signed a new bill into law, known as SECURE 2.0. SECURE 2.0 brings significant changes to retirement accounts, many of which will affect our clients and their finances. Before looking at the new…
Plan By Numbers Blog
Financial Planning simply illustrated by numbers at our companion blog.
2024 Economic Review
Now that full-year GDP numbers are out let’s review the major economic indicators for 2024. The employment situation remained stable with the economy gaining 2.2 million jobs (up 1.4% year-over-year). Those numbers are slightly lower than 2023’s but are still solid. The unemployment rate actually increased slightly to 4.1% as more people reentered the workforce.
Tucson Monsoon – 2024 Update
This monsoon season was almost exactly average with 5.8 inches of rain
2023 Review: Economy Edition
Now that full-year GDP numbers are out I can finish the 2023 year-in-review series by taking a look at major economic indicators.
2023 Review: Sectors, Stocks & International
Homebuilders led the market in 2023 with 69% return, including 30% in the fourth quarter alone. Is housing market a total mess, you might wonder? Why, yes, it is, but homebuilder played it right last year keeping inventory low, pricing high and offering buydowns on all-important mortgage rates. Semiconductors and other tech stocks weren't far behind largely driven by AI…
Quarterly Economic And Market Reviews
Quarterly reviews of markets, the economy and relevant current events. They include our thoughts on client portfolios and address timely planning issues.