September Market Recap – What is the Money For?

Most investments declined in September, most notably US small-cap stocks, international stocks, and bonds. US large-cap stocks were slightly negative. For the year to date, stocks have performed well while bonds are down. Inside the S&P 500 Index Comedian George Carlin once quipped, “Think of how stupid the average person is, and realize half of […]

August Market Recap – Why Interest Rates Matter

Markets rallied higher in August. US large-cap and international stocks did best, but US small-cap stocks also performed well. Bonds increased as well. For the year, stocks have dominated while bonds have trailed. Higher for Longer? Most people know that the US government is in debt. While this is often portrayed negatively due do the […]

July Market Recap – What Diversifies Your Portfolio?

Markets had mixed results in July. International stocks increased, while all other asset classes declined. So far this year, all stock categories are up significantly, while bonds have languished. Diversification 101 Diversification is one of the most commonly used words in investments. In fact, it might be the first and most foundational concept investors learn. […]

June Market Recap – The Process of Investing

Markets had mixed results in June. US small-cap stocks did best, while bonds also increased. International and US large-cap stocks declined in value. Halfway through the year, stocks have performed favorably overall. Portfolio Management When most people think about investing, they naturally focus on choosing their investments. Which stocks should I own? Which funds look […]

May Market Recap – Are You Ready For SpaceX?

Markets continued their positive trajectory in May. US large and small-cap stocks did best, while international also did well. Bonds had lower, but still positive returns. For the year, stocks continue to make investors happy. SpaceX Initial Public Offering – Coming Soon Startup companies all begin in the same place – as an idea in […]

April Market Recap – Sharpening the Saw

Markets accelerated higher in April. US small-cap stocks did best, but large-cap and international also did well. Bonds, while much less volatile, also increased. For the year, the bull market, which began in 2022, continues. Financial Planning Association – All-Ohio Symposium The final habit of Stephen Covey’s bestselling book The Seven Habits of Highly Effective […]

March Market Recap – Baseball Season’s Underway

Markets declined in March. International stocks went down most, followed by US small-cap and large-cap stocks. Bonds did the best on a relative basis. So far for the year, the results are mixed, with small-caps leading. The National Pastime Last week, the Major League Baseball season began. Synonymous with the start of spring, it represents […]

February Market Recap – What is Valuation?

Stock markets posted mixed results in February. International stocks and US small-caps increased, along with bonds. US large-caps declined. So far in 2026, all four asset classes have gone up, with international stocks doing best. Know The Value Of What You Own What factors cause stocks to fluctuate up and down? Since stocks are legal […]

January Market Recap & Your Best Advice

Stock markets started out strong in 2026. US small-caps and international stocks have led, while US large-caps and bonds have also increased. Invest Now! Last month, we reached out to you, our clients, for the one piece of financial advice that you would share with someone else or your younger self. Thank you to everyone […]