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Benefits of Including Investment-Grade Bonds  Thumbnail

Benefits of Including Investment-Grade Bonds

For investors seeking stable returns in their fixed-income portfolio Over the last 15 years, investment-grade bonds have modestly outperformed Treasuries, making them an attractive option for investors seeking stable returns in their fixed-income portfolios. But how many investors can articulate the reasons that have contributed to their outperformance or the potential benefits of including investment-grade bonds in a fixed-income portfolio? Why Investment-Grade Bonds?

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5 Homeowner Estate Planning Tips to Consider Thumbnail

5 Homeowner Estate Planning Tips to Consider

Estate planning helps disperse your assets according to your wishes. The effort may seem daunting at first, but estate planning does not have to be overly complicated. With the proper planning, you may find yourself resting a little easier knowing you have an estate plan in place. While an estate plan is personalized to the wants and needs of each person, here are a few tips to help anyone get started.

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Fixed vs. Variable Annuities  Thumbnail

Fixed vs. Variable Annuities

Annuity products have grown more sophisticated over the years to meet the demands of today's more sophisticated investors. Just as mutual funds grew in popularity as an alternative to certificates of deposit, the variable annuity was developed as an alternative to the fixed annuity. Variable annuities offer potentially higher returns than fixed annuities. Of course, there is a risk of loss as well. So, deciding which annuity product to invest in often comes down to deciding how much risk you are willing to take.

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Deconstructing the Debt Ceiling and What Investors Should Know About the Latest Bill Thumbnail

Deconstructing the Debt Ceiling and What Investors Should Know About the Latest Bill

So, the debt ceiling crisis finally subsided over the weekend. It seems to be more political theater than anything else. Fortunately, that’s because every time the government does this, they manage to come to a resolution. The reason the debt ceiling continues to be a big deal is because if a resolution is not tenable, things could very easily go very wrong. Having said that, let’s do a little dive into what the debt ceiling is, why it’s important, and what was in the bill that was passed this time.

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A Few Red Flags in the Stock Market to Watch   Thumbnail

A Few Red Flags in the Stock Market to Watch

Current warning signs might point to a future downturn for the stock market As an investor, it's important to keep a close eye on the stock market indicators. Currently, the indicators are showing a concerning trend that investors should pay attention to.

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When You've Finally Crawled Out of Winter Hibernation & Ready to Make a Difference Thumbnail

When You've Finally Crawled Out of Winter Hibernation & Ready to Make a Difference

Recently, I’ve been on a mission to find ways to give back. Although no one’s life is perfect, and I have certainly had my fill of challenges, lately I find myself overwhelmed with gratitude for the blessings that have come my way. I don’t know if it’s my newfound practice of gratefulness every morning, or because the weather finally turned in Ohio and I’ve finally snapped out of my seasonal depression, but I have this need to do some good in this world! I want to find a cause that I can devote my time and energy to – something that really resonates with me.

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The Bald Truth About End-of-School-Year Burnout for Working Moms Thumbnail

The Bald Truth About End-of-School-Year Burnout for Working Moms

Now that we’re approaching the last few weeks of school, I am at peak stress and I will do anything to keep myself from losing any more hair. Between tryouts for fall sports, soccer tournaments, dance recitals, band concerts, graduation parties, end of school field trips, finals, and birthdays, I am shocked I’m not Sinead O’Connoring it out here. Not only am I counting down the days until summer vacation begins, but I’m also counting how many hairs are still attached to my head. The good news is that there are ways to manage end-of-school year activities and lower my blood pressure. Here are a few things I’ve been working on to help navigate this busy time:

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Thinking About Emerging Markets This Year? Thumbnail

Thinking About Emerging Markets This Year?

After a tumultuous couple of years, emerging markets equities appear to be bouncing back, offering a glimmer of hope for investors in 2023. Despite a slew of geopolitical uncertainties and significant theoretical headwinds, emerging markets are showing resilience and growth potential that could make them a bright spot for investors in the year ahead.

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A Full Year of Interest Rate Hikes From the Fed Thumbnail

A Full Year of Interest Rate Hikes From the Fed

Assessing the context, impact and the future of unprecedented rate hikes Almost exactly one year ago, on March 16, 2022, the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) enacted the first of what would become nine consecutive interest rate increases. This move marked the beginning of an aggressive (and unprecedented) monetary tightening cycle, aimed at combating high inflation and stabilizing the economy.

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