For long-term investors, knowing the difference between what can and cannot be controlled is the key to both financial success and peace of mind. While all investors would like to believe they can predict or even control the direction of the market, experience teaches us that this is difficult to do. Constructing and managing an appropriate portfolio, while making strategic and tactical allocations based on market opportunities, ideally with the guidance of a trusted advisor, is often the best approach. However, while following markets and maintaining perspective on the economy is important, an even more fundamental key to success is simply to start saving early, stay invested, and remain focused on long-term financial goals. What can investors do to benefit from these principles today?

Major stock market indices made significant gains in the first half of the year due to improving inflation, slowing Fed rate hikes, the absence of a recession, a more stable banking sector, and a strong rally in tech stocks. The S&P 500 has climbed 16.9% with reinvested dividends this year, while the Nasdaq and Dow have returned 32.3% and 4.9%, respectively. Markets have recovered much of their losses from last year with the S&P 500 now 7% from its all-time high.

2022 was a challenging year for investors. Markets fell into bear market territory and experienced the worst annual performance since 2008. The S&P 500, Dow and Nasdaq declined 19.4%, 8.8%…

The Newly-Passed SECURE Act 2.0 Raise your hand if you think Congress should get out of the habit of passing tax legislation hours before the end of the year, giving…

https://youtu.be/Df5ULHt48woThe stock market is adjusting to a new chapter in the inflation story that could keep Fed policy rates higher for longer. Recent market swings may be challenging, but this…

The S&P 500 officially fell to bear market levels this week. Rapid inflation across the economy has affected consumers and businesses, raising questions about spending and corporate profits. These pressures…

https://youtu.be/p0692iVbUD0Volatility is a term thrown around a lot on Wall Street and in personal finance circles. But what does it mean, and how does it impact your ability to meet…

For long-term investors, facing periods of geopolitical risk is unavoidable. Headlines on regional and global conflicts can be alarming since they are unlike the typical flow of business and market…

https://youtu.be/S_LvSyqVzls The stock market had another great year during 2021, ending three years of solid returns.  These returns are not sustainable for the long run as the stock market has…

Charitable donations are an excellent way to leave a legacy and positively impact a cause that is important to you. Many people desire to give back to charities that support…