Articles — Avantax® Wealth Management

Mid-Week Market Minute 06.29.22

Revised data for first quarter GDP was reported on Wednesday morning, indicating the U.S. economy contracted at a 1.6% annual rate for the quarter. Weakness was primarily led by volatile trade and inventory data.

Market Recap – Week Ending 06.24.22

After three straight weeks of declines, stocks regained positive momentum last week. In the US, the S&P 500 index finished the week higher by 6.5%, as investors continue to monitor the effects of inflation and monetary policy on the economy.

Mid-Week Market Minute 06.22.22

Stocks rallied in early trading this week as markets continue to grapple with central bank policy and the ultimate repercussions for global economic growth.

Market Recap – Week Ending 06.17.22

Stocks were lower as central bank tightening amid persistent inflation and pricing pressures continued. In the U.S., the Federal Reserve raised the short-term funds rate last week by 75 basis points, the largest increase since 1994.

Mid-Week Market Minute 06.15.22

The Federal Reserve announced it would raise rates by 75 basis points, in line with the markets’ expectations. There was a tremendous amount of investor angst leading up to the meeting in the face of the highest inflation in decades.

Market Recap – Week Ending 06.10.22

Stock market volatility continued last week as investors digested an above-consensus inflation report and upcoming monetary tightening by the Federal Reserve.

Mid-Week Market Minute 06.08.22

Stocks edged higher in early trading this week despite increasing concerns surrounding a slowdown in global economic growth.

Market Recap - Week Ended June 3

Global stock returns were mixed last week as volatility continues in the markets. Emerging market stocks (MSCI EM) finished the week 1.8% higher, while in the U.S. the S&P 500 index was down 1.1% for the week.

Mid-Week Market Minute 06.01.22

Stocks were mostly higher this week as Wall Street turned the page on another volatile month. The S&P 500 edged out a positive total return of about 0.20% in May after briefly dipping into bear market territory.

Market Recap – Week Ending 05.27.22

U.S. stocks ended a seven-week stretch of declines last week as some positive retail earnings helped investor sentiment.

Mid-Week Market Minute 05.25.22

Stocks resumed their downward trajectory alongside elevated volatility as markets digested softer-than-expected data on the economic front.

Market Recap – Week ended May 20

Stocks were mixed across the world last week as investors evaluated softer consumer demand, persistent inflation, and slowing economic growth.

Mid-Week Market Minute 05.18.22

Stocks around the globe stabilized in early trading this week after weathering a steep sell-off last week, fueled by the ongoing uncertainty surrounding inflation and the future path of monetary policy.

Market Recap – Week Ending 05.13.22

Stocks across the globe were lower last week, as markets continue to be challenged by a global economic slowdown given the COVID-19 lockdowns in China, the Russia-Ukraine war, and persistent inflation.

Mid-Week Market Minute 05.11.22

Stocks in the U.S. traded sharply lower this week as inflationary pressures continued to mount. Overseas, international stocks fared slightly better, with China’s Shanghai index flat for the week.

Market Recap – Week Ending 05.06.22

Stocks vacillated last week as volatility remained elevated. In the U.S., investors evaluated guidance from the latest Federal Reserve meeting, while keeping an eye on corporate earnings and jobs data.

Mid-Week Market Minute 05.04.22

Stocks in the U.S. were about 2% higher for the week, with energy and utilities leading the way as the European Union’s proposed ban on Russian oil led to higher prices in global energy markets.

Market Recap – Week Ending 04.29.22

Stocks were lower in volatile trading last week as markets evaluated earnings, COVID-19 lockdowns in China, and Federal Reserve actions. In the U.S., the S&P 500 index was down 3.3% for the week as weak GDP ...

Mid-Week Market Minute 04.27.22

U.S. stocks sold off this week as the repricing in growth-related shares continued ahead of key earnings data. Markets remain vigilant as COVID-19 restrictions continue to weigh on China alongside looming central bank rate hikes.

Market Recap – Week Ending 04.22.22

Overview: Stocks fell across the globe last week on fears of faster rate hikes in the U.S. and renewed lockdowns from a recent COVID-19 surge in China. In the U.S., the S&P 500 index ended down 2.7%, and with the Hang Seng index in Hong Kong down ...

Mid-Week Market Minute 04.20.22

Global stocks rallied this week as investors digested corporate earnings reports alongside central bank commentary. Shares of Netflix (NFLX) plummeted on Tuesday following the company’s quarterly earnings report.

Financial Planner or Fee-Only Advisor – Which is Right for You?

You’ve made that leap and you are ready to work with a financial advisor. You have your checklist of what to ask, but how do you know if they are qualified for what you want? Here you’ll find many of the common designations that you will ...

A Primer on Series I Savings Bonds

You may be familiar with Series E or EE savings bonds, which were the paper bonds you used to be able to buy at your local bank. Often used as gifts for birthdays or graduations, Series EE savings bonds earn a fixed rate of interest and ...

Market Recap – Week Ending 04.14.22

Stocks were lower last week as investors continue to monitor inflation and interest rates. Last week, markets digested two important inflation readings – the Consumer Price Index (CPI) and producer prices (PPI).

Mid-Week Market Minute 04.13.22

Global stocks took a breather this week as investors continued to monitor geopolitical and inflation risks. On Tuesday, data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics showed headline CPI rose by 8.5% from a year ago, the largest annual gain since 1981.

Market Recap – Week Ending 04.08.22

Stocks worldwide were lower last week, with the S&P 500 index down 1.2% on the week. In the U.S., investors focused on the release of the March FOMC meeting minutes, which indicated more aggressive monetary tightening from the Federal Reserve.

Your CPA and Your Financial Professional – Dynamic Duo

They may not be fighting crime exactly, but this dynamic duo should definitely have “hero” status when it comes to protecting and building wealth. When these professionals work together to identify problems and find better solutions ...

Mid-Week Market Minute 04.06.22

Global stocks retreated this week as markets grappled with a progressively more hawkish Federal Reserve along with a fresh round of European Union sanctions on Moscow.

Market Recap – Week Ending 04.01.22

International stock traded higher last week, led by emerging markets (MSCI EM) up 1.9%, and developed stocks (MSCI EAFE) trading 0.8% higher. In the U.S., the S&P 500 index was up a marginal 0.1%, as inflation concerns continued ...

Your 4% Withdrawal Strategy May Not Be Enough

Get the Tax Guidance You Need to Help Live the Retirement You Desire

Mid-Week Market Minute 03.30.22

Global stocks continued to mount an impressive rally this week as optimism surrounding ceasefire talks between Russia and Ukraine helped bolster sentiment.

Market Recap – Week Ending 03.25.22

Stocks across the globe were generally higher last week as geopolitical concerns continued to fuel volatility in the markets.

Mid-Week Market Minute 03.23.22

Global stocks moved higher in early trading this week as investors continue to take cues from the Federal Reserve while keeping a close watch on developments in Eastern Europe.

Market Recap – Week Ending 03.18.22

Stocks across the globe rallied last week as investors evaluated the latest Russia-Ukraine news and as the Federal Reserve began their cycle of interest rate increases.

Mid-Week Market Minute 03.16.22

Global stocks traded marginally higher this week as investors continue to assess the impacts of developments in Eastern Europe.

Market Recap – Week Ending 03.11.22

U.S. stocks and bonds fell last week as consumer prices (CPI) inflation reached a 40-year high and investors factored in the impact on global growth of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

Mid-Week Market Minute 03.09.22

Stocks traded solidly higher mid-week and recovered most of the losses from a sharp sell-off over the first two days of the week. The market’s main focus remains Russia/Ukraine as flows are being driven by possible progress toward a ceasefire deal...

Market Recap – Week Ending 03.04.22

The effects of the intensifying Russia-Ukraine conflict continued to drive global stocks lower last week. International stocks were hit the hardest, with international developed (MSCI EAFE) and emerging markets (MSCI EM) down 5.5% and 2.3%, ...

Mid-Week Market Minute 03.02.22

Global stocks moved lower this week amid the intensifying conflict between Russia and Ukraine. Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is sparking investor worries about supply shortages...

The Ins and Outs of Capital Gains

Not all income is created equal, and how you treat capital gains can make a pretty significant difference to your yearly tax bill. Read on to understand capital gains and how they affect your bottom line. Then enlist the help of your CPA for tax ...

How the Child Tax Credit Payments Could Impact Your 2021 Tax Return

If you are one of the millions of American taxpayers receiving advance Child Tax Credit payments from the IRS this year, you may be wondering how this could affect your 2021 tax return.

Market Recap – Week Ending 02.25.22

Global stocks sold off sharply mid-week as Russia invaded Ukraine, with uncertain ramifications causing investors to move to safe haven assets.

Market Turbulence – Rates and Russia

The return of market turbulence, heightened volatility, and geopolitical uncertainty have dominated the investment landscape as we begin the year 2022.

Mid-Week Market Minute 02.23.22

Stocks around the globe moved lower this week as investors assessed the impacts of the ongoing standoff between Russia and Ukraine.

Market Recap – Week Ending 02.18.22

Global stocks were lower last week as investors moved into safe assets amid rising tensions in Ukraine. The S&P 500 ended 1.5% lower, as geopolitical concerns dominated encouraging earnings releases.

Mid-Week Market Minute 02.16.22

Stocks around the globe were modestly higher in early trading this week. Improving COVID-19 trends and relatively upbeat earnings have provided a tailwind for risk assets despite looming inflation and geopolitical tensions.

Market Recap – Week Ending 02.11.22

Stocks were mixed around the world last week, as international equities rose on the back of strong earnings, while U.S. stocks were lower in a volatile week of trading.

Mid-Week Market Minute 02.09.22

U.S. stocks were broadly higher in early trading this week as mostly positive corporate earnings helped bolster recent sentiment.

Market Recap – Week Ending 02.04.22

Global stocks ended higher last week in another volatile week of trading. In the U.S., the S&P 500 index was up 1.6% for the week, with international developed (MSCI EAFE) and emerging markets (MSCI EM) up 2.1% and 2.5% respectively.

Mid-Week Market Minute 02.02.22

In the U.S., stocks are on pace for a fourth straight day of positive returns as a robust earnings outlook is helping to ease uncertainty as concerns remain around inflation, regulatory risks in China, the Russia-Ukraine crisis, and the pandemic.

Why Does the Beginning of 2022 Feel Different?

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Market Recap – Week Ending 01.28.22

Stocks were mixed across the globe last week as volatility continues in the markets.

Mid-Week Market Minute 01.26.22

U.S. stocks traded lower in another volatile week as investors grappled with uncertainty regarding monetary policy, the economic growth outlook, and escalating geopolitical tension.

Market Recap – Week Ending 01.21.22

Stocks around the world continued lower last week, as ongoing concerns around COVID-19 and monetary policy tightening continued. In the U.S., stocks fell for a third consecutive week, with the S&P 500 index down 5.7%.

Perspective on Late January Sell Off

Stocks in the U.S. continued to decline this week following three consecutive weeks of negative performance.

Mid-Week Market Minute 01.19.22

Global stocks have had a volatile start to the year, hurt by economic disruptions from Omicron, risks to company profits due to rising costs, ongoing inflation concerns, and worries about a more aggressive Federal Reserve.

Market Recap – Week Ending 01.14.21

Stocks were mixed across the globe last week, led by emerging markets (MSCI EM) up 2.6%.

Mid-Week Market Minute 01.12.22

Stocks rallied in early trading this week as investors weighed comments from Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell.

Market Recap – Week Ending 01.07.21

Stocks are lower this morning after trading down in the first week of the year. Worries about surging COVID-19 contagion and Federal guidance for a quicker pace of U.S. tapering and rate hikes sent stocks lower, with the S&P 500 down 1.8% for the ...

Mid-Week Market Minute 01.05.22

Stocks in the U.S. were little changed in the first few days of trading this week as investors await the minutes from the December Federal Reserve meeting.

Mid-Week Market Minute 12.22.21

Stocks in the U.S. were in positive territory mid-week following Tuesday’s strong rebound.

Market Recap – Week Ending 111921

Stocks around the world ended an uneven week of trading with mixed returns, as international stocks fell and U.S. stock returns were marginally positive.

Mid-Week Market Minute 11.17.21

Stocks in the U.S. continued to trade near record levels this week as investors digested generally upbeat economic data along with corporate earnings results.

Market Recap – Week Ending 11.12.21

Global stocks were mixed last week, with emerging markets (MSCI EM) posting a positive return of 1.7% for the week, while international developed stocks (MSCI EAFE) traded down 0.30%.

Mid-Week Market Minute 11.10.21

Stocks moved lower this week on the heels of hotter-than-expected inflation data for October. The Consumer Prices Index (CPI) spiked by 6.2% year-over-year, marking the largest annual increase in CPI since 1990.

Market Recap – Week Ending 11.05.21

Global stocks continued to move higher last week, as a strong jobs report and continued earnings beats overcame inflation fears and supply chain concerns.

Mid-Week Market Minute 11.03.21

Stocks in the U.S. were modestly higher this week following the Federal Reserve’s policy announcement Wednesday.

Market Recap – Week Ending 10.29.21

Global stocks were mixed last week, as U.S. stocks rose to new highs, while international stocks lagged.

Mid-Week Market Minute 10.27.21

The third-quarter earnings season is in full swing, with more than 50 of the S&P 500 constituents reporting earnings on Thursday.

Market Recap – Week Ending 10.22.21

Stock returns were positive last week, led by the U.S. markets that moved higher on strong third-quarter earnings and the specter of a delay in plans for federal tax increases.

Mid-Week Market Minute 10.20.21

Stocks edged higher this week as investors were encouraged by strong corporate earnings while keeping an eye on inflation and economic growth.

Market Recap – Week Ending 10.15.21

Stocks were higher around the world last week as strong earnings in the U.S. and improving COVID-19 numbers encouraged investors.

Mid-Week Market Minute 10.13.21

Stock markets in the U.S. dropped for a fourth consecutive trading day mid-week, as investors evaluate jobs and inflation reports and monitor the progress of fiscal stimulus.

Market Recap – Week Ending 10.08.21

Global stocks were higher last week, finishing the week with a strong rebound, after a short-term deal to raise the debt ceiling allayed investor concerns and beat the Oct. 18 deadline.

Mid-Week Market Minute 10.06.21

Volatility persisted this week as members of Congress continue to debate the stimulus bills. With the deadline for raising the debt ceiling (Oct. 18) quickly approaching, markets are ripe with uncertainty.

Market Recap – Week Ending 10.01.21

Stocks around the world traded lower last week as investor concerns grew over higher inflation, rising energy prices, slowing growth, and rising interest rates.

Mid-Week Market Minute 09.29.21

Stocks traded lower this week as benchmark interest rates rose across the board. When rates go up, it signals that markets anticipate interest-rate hikes, which make borrowing more expensive.

Market Recap – Week Ending 09.24.21

Stocks recovered last week after dropping at the start of the week on concerns about stress in the Chinese property sector. After a volatile week, the Hong Kong Hang Seng Index ended 2.9% lower.

Mid-Week Market Minute 09.22.21

Major averages are firmly in negative territory for the month of September following Monday’s sharp sell-off. The S&P 500 index fell 1.7%, its largest daily loss since May of this year.

Roth Conversion – A Tax-Smart Retirement Strategy

If you’re approaching retirement, conventional wisdom recommends allowing your 401(k) savings to grow as long as possible to enjoy the benefits of compound growth at a tax-free rate.

Mid-Week Market Minute 09.15.21

Stocks in the U.S. traded lower this week as several lingering headwinds continued to weigh on investors. Despite lower-than-expected inflation data, the S&P 500 was down about 0.50% mid-week, while the Russell 2000 (small cap index) ...

Market Recap – Week Ending 09.10.21

Stock markets dropped last week as fears of slowing global economic growth and the ongoing Delta variant dragged down market returns. In the U.S...

Mid-Week Market Minute 09.08.21

Stocks in the U.S. trended lower this week coming off the long Labor Day weekend as investors remain concerned about the Delta variant and its potential impact on economic growth.

Market Recap – Week Ending 09.03.21

Stocks around the world finished higher last week, led by emerging markets (MSCI EM) up 3.4%. In the U.S., the S&P 500 index reached a new high, ending the week 0.6% higher.

Mid-Week Market Minute 09.01.21

The S&P 500 closed out its seventh consecutive month of gains on Tuesday after rallying more than 3% in August.

Market Recap – Week Ending 08.27.21

Global stocks rebounded last week, with the S&P 500 index ending the week 1.5% higher, driven by strong corporate profits and supported by vaccination approvals.

Mid-Week Market Minute – 08.25.21

On the heels of last week’s dip, stocks around the globe rebounded in early trading this week. Very little has changed, making it tough to pinpoint the reason for this week’s swift rally.

Determining Retirement Plan Investment Allocation

Deciding how to invest your retirement plan balance can be difficult. Most retirement plans provide many investment options and choosing the best option for you can be challenging.

Market Recap – Week Ending 08.20.21

Stocks around the world traded lower last week, as COVID-19 concerns continue and after the Federal Reserve indicated it may accelerate the timing of the tapering of asset purchases.

Mid-Week Market Minute 08.18.21

EAFE (international index) lost about -1.50%. Despite the rather negative sentiment, it’s important to note as of Monday, the S&P 500 had officially doubled since its COVID-19 pandemic low on March 23, 2020.

Market Recap – Week Ending 08.13.21

Stock markets were generally higher last week as strong earnings and favorable economic data overcame COVID-19 Delta variant concerns. A rise in COVID-19 cases has increased potential for continued fiscal and monetary policy support, helping to ...

How to Handle the Death of a Loved One

Expected or not, managing issues that must be addressed following the death of a family member or friend can be extremely difficult.

Mid-Week Market Minute 08.11.21

U.S. stocks moved into positive territory for the week following softer than expected inflation data. Year-over-year CPI rose 5.4% compared with estimates of around 5.3%.

Market Recap – Week Ending 08.06.21

Stocks around the world moved higher last week, with both U.S. and international equities about 1.0% higher. In the U.S., the S&P 500 index reached record highs, with strong corporate earnings and a favorable jobs report overcoming COVID-19 Delta ...

Mid-Week Market Minute 08.04.21

Stocks moved lower mid-week as investors digested a disappointing private payroll report from ADP. The employment report showed that 330,000 jobs were created, well below the 692,000 jobs added in June, and well short of the consensus ...

Teach Children About Money Now, Or Be Ready to Help Later

Monetary transactions look much different today than they did 10, even 5, years ago. Today, consumers can pay for goods and services with a swipe of a card or through an app on a phone.

Market Recap – Week Ending 07.30.21

Strong second-quarter earnings offset COVID-19 Delta variant concerns as stocks were mixed across the globe last week.

Tax Planning for the Biden Administration

Many individuals are stuck in a holding pattern as they wait to see what impact the Biden Administration will have on tax regulations.

Mid-Week Market Minute – 07.28.21

Stocks moved lower in early trading this week as investors parsed through a slew of Q2 earnings results while awaiting the conclusion of the Federal Reserve’s two-day meeting on Wednesday afternoon.

Market Recap – Week Ending 07.23.21

Increased cases of the COVID-19 Delta variant rattled global markets last week, as the highly contagious strain is now making up the majority of new cases around the world.

Mid-Week Market Minute 07.21.21

Concerns over the recent resurgence in COVID-19 cases in many parts of the world sent markets sharply lower Monday as volatility spiked.

Market Recap – Week Ending 07.16.21

Global stock markets were mixed last week as generally strong second-quarter earnings were overcome by concerns over new COVID-19 Delta variant developments.

If You Have Not Already, It Is Time to Take Control of Your Finances

The basics of financial planning for women are not much different than for men – spend less, save, and invest more, and work from a plan.

Mid-Week Market Minute 07.14.21

Stocks in the U.S. traded sideways this week as investors digested corporate earnings and higher than anticipated inflation data. The big banks kicked off the second-quarter earnings season this week with mixed results.

Market Recap – Week Ending 07.09.21

Stock markets were mixed last week, as the increase in the COVID-19 Delta variant took center stage and concerns around the global recovery emerged.

Mid-Week Market Minute – 07.07.21

Stocks around the globe traded lower following the long holiday weekend. Treasuries caught a bid higher amid the “risk-off” trade, with the yield on the 10-year Treasury note hovering around 1.33% mid-week.

Market Recap – Week Ending 07.02.21

Stocks around the world were mixed last week, as U.S. equities recorded new highs while international stocks fell. For the week, the S&P 500 index was up 1.7%, on the heels of higher government growth estimates and improved employment numbers.

Mid-Week Market Minute 06.30.21

As markets enter the final trading day of June and the second quarter, the S&P 500 is on track to register its fifth consecutive month of gains.

Market Recap – Week Ending 06.25.21

Stocks were higher around the world last week, led by a bipartisan agreement in the U.S. on a revised infrastructure package. As currently proposed, the plan will inject $1.2 trillion into infrastructure over eight years.

Mid-Week Market Minute 06.23.21

Stocks in the U.S. rebounded following last week’s sell-off. As of Wednesday morning, Energy and Financials were among the best performing sectors while Utilities and Healthcare lagged.

Market Recap – Week ending 06.18.21

Global stock markets traded lower last week, as investors continue to digest news from the latest Federal Reserve meeting.

Mid-Week Market Minute 06.16.21

Equities around the world were mostly unchanged in early trading this week as investors await the conclusion of the Federal Reserve’s two-day meeting on Wednesday afternoon.

Market Recap – Week ending 06.11.21

Stocks across the globe were up modestly last week, continuing their rally, with the S&P 500 index reaching a record high.

Mid-Week Market Minute 06.09.21

Global equities were marginally higher in early trading this week ahead of Thursday’s widely anticipated inflation report. Economists are anticipating the report to show that headline consumer prices increased from 4.2% to 4.6% on an annualized basis

5 Solutions to the Biggest Financial Problems Families Face

Whether you make a lot of money or a little or have massive amounts of credit card debt or none, more than likely, finances are an issue in most households.

Should Your Financial Advisor Be Local?

There’s so much to consider when choosing a financial advisor: what kind of fees they charge, the services they provide, and whether you get along with them and trust them, to start. Should their location be in that list?

Should You Participate in an Employee Stock Purchase Plan?

An employee stock purchase plan (ESPP) can help employers promote loyalty among employees while allowing those same employees to participate in the success of the company they work for.

Should I Diversify My Index Funds?

Consistent and responsible investing is all about diversity.

10 Lessons in Financial Literacy All College Students Should Learn

Ask a mid-lifer what they wished they’d learned in college, and chances are they’ll say they wished they had used their time more wisely or really knew more about financial literacy.

5 Questions You Need to Ask Your Financial Advisor Before Buying a Home

Starting the homebuying process can be like taking a crash course in a different language, especially if you’ve never bought before.

How to Review a Financial Advisor

Once you’ve found a financial advisor that you feel is a good match for your needs, what’s next? It’s a good idea to carefully review the person you’ll trust with your finances.

Fee or Commission: What’s the Best Way to Pay Your Financial Advisor?

When looking for a financial advisor, there’s much to consider: what states they conduct business in, their certifications, whether you enjoy talking with them and trust them, what their specialties are, and, of course, how much they charge.

Investment Rules That Do Apply to Your Financial Advisor

Knowing what to watch for will help protect you. It’s, also, helpful for investors to know how to talk with their advisor. As they say, “knowing is half the battle.”

You’re an Accredited Investor: Now What?

Higher-income investors and those who have become millionaires—with seven-figure investment accounts, excluding their primary home’s value—become known as so-called “accredited investors.”

Financial Advisor Glossary: Common Financial Planning Terms

When you’re working with a financial advisor to plan your financial future, you’ll encounter a number of industry words and terms that might not be familiar to you.

Market Recap – Week Ending 06.04.21

Stocks were marginally higher across the world last week, as accommodative monetary policy and fiscal stimulus continues to fuel markets across the globe.

Mid-Week Market Minute 06.03.21

Following the long Memorial Day weekend, stocks kicked off the month of June on a positive note. Strong economic data from Europe and Asia helped boost investor sentiment, leading to a continuation of the outperformance in international ...

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