by Fehrman | Sep 18, 2023 | Market Update, Markets and Investing
The Economy: This summer, economic growth was spurred on by travel and leisure spending from consumers. In November 2022, we saw estimates for 2023 GDP at 0.3%. In August, estimates were around 1.5%. As the summer spending supported the economy, many economists have...
by Fehrman | May 17, 2023 | Estate Planning, Financial Goals, Financial Literacy, Financial Planning, Markets and Investing, Money and Children, Personal Planning, Retirement
Finances can be a tricky topic. Some people are more comfortable discussing money than others. But when it comes to your estate plan, it’s important your loved ones understand your wishes. A discussion to share your plans is the first step. We have some tips you can...
by Fehrman | Mar 21, 2023 | Market Update, Markets and Investing
March 2023 Market Update Banking Sector The Fed has raised rates at an unusually aggressive pace over the last 12 months. This directly impacts banks’ earnings from net interest margin, the spread between deposit rates and interest rates for lending. Last Tuesday,...
by Fehrman | Oct 13, 2022 | Market Update, Markets and Investing
The Federal Reserve & The Economy The main cause for the Fed raising rates is the high rate of inflation (8.31% 2022 vs. 4.68% in 2021). Current Federal Funds rate: 3.25% vs. 0.25% in 2021 This level has moved into a restrictive phase where the...
by Fehrman | Sep 9, 2022 | Financial Goals, Financial Planning, Investing Women, Markets and Investing, Personal Planning, Retirement
What is a 401(k)? A 401(k) is an employer sponsored retirement plan offered by many companies. Upon reaching eligibility, an employee can choose to contribute a portion of his or her compensation into the 401(k). Often times, an employer will offer a match for...
by Fehrman | Feb 2, 2022 | Markets and Investing
Over the last 2 years, a common theme of the markets has been volatility. So far, the start of 2022 has continued that theme. While it is not a fun topic to discuss, it is important to understand volatility and the role it plays in a portfolio. In its most basic form,...