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Fixed income investors have had a rough time over the last few years. Normally a staid asset class, core bonds (as proxied by the Bloomberg Aggregate Bond Index) have seen negative returns over the last two calendar years and could...

A charitable remainder trust (CRT) can be a highly effective financial and estate planning tool. The CRT can allow you to: avoid capital gains taxes on highly appreciated assets, however when income is distributed to the income...

The Federal Reserve (Fed) often uses the Jackson Hole Symposium to announce tweaks in policy. Other central bank leaders are also worth watching as investors try to perceive where rates will be in the coming months. In this piece, we...

According to a survey conducted by Allianz Life Insurance of North America, Americans believe a retirement crisis exists and that they are unprepared.1 The study shows that Americans fear outliving their money more than they fear death...

What are my options as a business owner? As a business owner, you have unique college planning opportunities. If you are in a high tax bracket, it may be advantageous for you to shift assets or income to your child, who will typically...

Volatility has returned right on cue as U.S. equity markets continue to pull back from overbought levels. The recent jump in interest rates has proven to be too much too fast for stocks to absorb, especially for the heavyweight and...

It’s different this time. The four (or five) most dangerous words in investing. We’ll take the risk and use those words here as we break down the recent decision by credit rating agency Fitch to downgrade U.S. government...

Earnings season is mostly behind us with about 85% of S&P 500 companies having reported second quarter results. The high-level results aren’t particularly impressive, but if we peel back the onion, the numbers are encouraging....

The economy is doing better than expected, and the markets are responding accordingly. In this piece, we discuss some of the factors that cause us to think the Federal Reserve (Fed) hiked for the last time in this cycle as inflation is...

The first half of the year probably didn’t go the way many fixed income investors had hoped, particularly after the historically awful year last year. It wasn’t a horrible start—more in line with recent...

Earnings season is upon us as some banks and a small handful of other blue chip companies have already reported results for their quarters ending June 30. The results on the surface probably won’t offer much to write home about...

The long dormant capital markets have recently begun showing signs of interest from institutional investors and deal makers anxious to bring companies to market. While activity remains muted at best, expectations are focused on 2024,...

We know it’s old news at this point, but on June 8, 2023, the S&P 500 entered a new bull market. After such a strong rally off the October lows, this young bull probably needs a breather. A look at the charts suggests this market...

What You Need To Know To Get StartedGetting ready to apply for college is an exciting and anxious time for high school students and their parents. The competition to get into college is stiff, and with the rising cost of education,...

As the economy is likely downshifting, investors should take heed that the Federal Reserve’s (Fed) current stance is eerily similar to early 2007. During that time, the Fed held a tightening bias since they believed the housing...

The Federal Reserve (Fed) meets this week where it is largely expected to not raise short term interest rates for the first time in 15 months. However, Fed messaging has been all over the place in recent weeks. While some Fed officials...

Here is what an end to rate hikes might mean for CDs and savings accountsThe Federal Reserve has been steadily increasing interest rates in an effort to manage inflation and support economic growth. However, indications suggest that...

Current warning signs might point to a future downturn for the stock marketAs 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...

There is no guarantee that a diversified portfolio will enhance overall returns or outperform a non-diversified portfolio. Diversification does not protect against market risk.Stocks have had a nice run, but at higher prices, the bar...

Many people know that life insurance is important to have, and yet not enough actually get it. Some decide they’ll get it later in life while others feel it’s a waste of money because they don’t have any health issues...

The mega-cap technology companies have powered the broad market higher this year. In fact, the 8.1% gain in the S&P 500 year to date has been driven entirely by six mega-cap stocks: Apple (AAPL), Microsoft (MSFT), NVIDIA (NVDA), Meta...

Economists like to remind us there is no such thing as a free lunch. In investment parlance, that just means all investments carry risk—even cash. And the big risk with cash is reinvestment risk. That is, while short-term rates...

First quarter earnings season is nearly complete, and it has caused us to regret titling our earnings preview commentary on April 10, “Malaise Continues.” While the “better than feared” label fit the past couple...

When selecting a fixed-rate mortgage, a prospective borrower has to determine how many years to finance the loan. Some financial institutions offer 10-year and 20-year, fixed-rate mortgages as well as 15-year and 30-year, fixed-rate...

Much has been written lately about the threats facing the reserve currency status enjoyed by the U.S. dollar. “De-dollarization” headlines appear on a near-daily basis, suggesting the dollar’s reign is in looming...

In a recent survey, 70% of current workers stated they plan to work for pay after retiring.1And that possibility raises an interesting question: how will working affect Social Security benefits?The answer to that question requires an...

“Sell in May and go away” is probably the most widely cited stock market cliché in history. Every year a barrage of Wall Street commentaries and stories in the financial press floods in about this popular, but overused...

In a 2022 survey, 35% of all workers reported they were either “not too” or “not at all” confident that they would have enough money to pay for their medical expenses in retirement. Regardless of your confidence...

Investors use various analogies to describe the importance of small businesses in the domestic economy. Some refer to the small business sector as the backbone or the lifeblood of the economy. At this current stage of the cycle, we...

The commercial real estate (CRE) market has recently captured the spotlight after being flagged as the next potential shoe to drop following last month’s banking turmoil. While rising rates have weighed on financing costs and the...

After years of numerous delays, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security has once again extended the  REAL ID enforcement deadline from May 3, 2023, until May 7,  2025. 1What is a REAL ID?A REAL ID is a type of enhanced...

First quarter earnings season kicks off this week with some big banks reporting toward the end of the week. In some ways this quarter’s earnings season will probably be déjà vu all over again—earnings declines and...

Managing your tax liability can literally save you thousands of dollarsTax season can be a stressful time for many people, especially if you're not fully prepared. However, with some advance planning and preparation, you can take steps...

A lot has changed in the past few weeks, both in terms of expectations for interest rates and lost confidence in the health of the banking system as a result of the sharp rise in interest rates that has led to some things...

The Federal Reserve (Fed) has a history of raising short-term interest rates until something “breaks.” Considering the Fed has raised rates from a near-zero level to 4.75% (upper bound) over the course of only one year, it...

Women’s History Month has its origins as a national celebration in 1981 when Congress passed and authorized a resolution and requested the President to proclaim the week beginning March 7, 1982 as “Women’s History...

Last week did not play out how we anticipated. Coming into the week, it was all about Federal Reserve (Fed) Chair Jerome Powell’s congressional testimony and the February jobs report. Instead, we got a shockingly fast collapse of...

Planning on working during retirement? If so, you're not alone. An increasing number of employees nearing retirement plan to work at least some period of time during their retirement years.Why work during retirement?Obviously, if you...

It's difficult to imagine functioning in today's world without credit. Whether buying a car or purchasing a home, credit has become an integral part of our everyday lives. Having easy access to credit goes hand in hand with having a...

Suggesting an Economy Makes “No Landing” Makes No SenseSuggesting an economy makes “no landing” makes no sense. Analogies eventually break down, especially this one. Economic activity does not stop like an...

Due to recent increases in the price of fuel, the IRS has increased the optional standard mileage rates for computing the deductible costs of operating an automobile for business purposes for 2023. However, the standard mileage rates...

While concerns about the debt ceiling have been increasing, markets, businesses, and the economy are likely to see only minimal impact until we are days, or maybe a few weeks, from the “x date,” the date on which the...

Markets have adjusted to several changes this year. The pace at which inflation has cooled is slowing. The market has started to believe the Federal Reserve’s (Fed) “higher for longer” message. The bar for earnings...

Tips for finding the best fit in caregivers to ensure quality care and comfortAre you thinking about home health care as a solution to providing help with daily activities such as bathing, meal preparation, and housekeeping? Many older...

Soft landing or no soft landing, that is the question, with all due respect to William Shakespeare. But while this may be the most commonly asked question these days, it may not be the most important or the toughest. That honor goes to...

Financial independence is desirable at any age and stage in your life. But when you are a senior, it might be the difference between enjoying a stress-free retirement and having to continue to work longer to satisfy financial concerns...

Investors got more excited about international investing late last year. Some of that was chasing better returns, as developed international equities solidly beat the U.S. over the last three months of 2022. Some was the increased...

Whether you're single, paired, or somewhere in between, Valentine's Day may present the perfect opportunity to show your bank account some love. Below are four tips and tricks to set you on the path toward becoming your own financial...

The script has been flipped in 2023. Last year’s underperformers have turned into outperformers this year, driving the S&P 500 Index up over 5% this month. The pace and composition of the rally have left many investors skeptical...

Congress recently enacted landmark retirement legislation known as Secure 2.0 that will incentivize individuals to save for retirement, while increasing access to workplace plans. The new law includes a number of provisions intended to...

When you think of identity theft, you may think of unauthorized credit card payments or new lines of credit. However, tax identity theft is one of the most common types of identity theft — and it’s also the most common...

The latest episode of the debate between stock market bulls and bears has gotten more interesting. For every valid point from one side, there’s an equally compelling argument on the other side. Perhaps the best reason for the...

If you're the beneficiary of a large inheritance, you may find yourself suddenly wealthy. Even if you expected the inheritance, you may be surprised by the size of the bequest or the diverse assets you've inherited. You'll...

Fourth quarter earnings season is underway and probably won’t bring much good news. Lackluster global growth, ongoing profit margin pressures from inflation, and negative currency impacts are likely to translate into a...

We believe accountability and modesty are among the keys to success in this business. In striving for those qualities, LPL Research has a tradition of starting off a new year with a lessons learned commentary. We got some things wrong...

There are many reasons why you might want to gift assets to minor children (children under the age of 21). For example, you may want to help the children build a college fund, or increase the children's future financial security. Or,...

2022 was a dizzying year as markets and the global economy continued to find itself out of balance due to the still present aftereffects of the COVID-19 pandemic and the policy response to it. If 2022 was about recognizing imbalances...

Now that we've entered 2023, there are a lot of economic metrics worth paying attention to, especially as each will have an impact one way or another on our investments. But whether or not markets will reverse course and post positive...

What is mobile check deposit and how does it work?It’s as easy as it sounds – it’s a way to deposit checks into your LPL non-retirement account by using your smartphone’s camera. Open the Account View mobile app...

A resolution for every month to help you work towards financial independenceCleaning up personal finances remains one of the top resolutions every New Year. But we all know what happens to most such self-promises, so here’s a...

The Federal Reserve (Fed) wrapped up its last Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) meeting of the year last week, where it hiked short-term interest rates for the seventh time in as many meetings, taking the fed funds rate to 4.5%...

With the year rapidly coming to a close, and the upcoming tax year looming with uncertainties, you should consider updating your tax strategy to best preserve your assets into the future. Don't wait to make these adjustments. Check out...

When you own a business, you get to deduct business expenses from your business income. This general rule applies, subject to certain limitations, whether you are a sole proprietor with employees or a self-employed freelancer working...

Improving return by minimizing taxesAlthough we are all obligated to pay our fair share of taxes, few of us would be pleased to pay taxes unnecessarily. Because taxes lower the actual return on your investments, you should be...

Make that "Tax App" Work for YouTax season arrives each year, rain or shine, and for many people, the idea of having to do their taxes can feel somewhat overwhelming. However, in today’s world, with advances in technology and the...

The end of the year can be a chaotic time for business owners. It is a time to compile data, review the numbers, evaluate strengths and weaknesses, and determine growth opportunities for the future. A business owner would be keen to...

For some, it’s easy to put personal finances on the back burner during the last few months of the year. However, before the year comes to an end, it’s essential to review your finances. By doing so now, you can make the...

What would you do if you had unlimited funds to donate to charity? Would you focus on causes and organizations that make a difference locally or donate to international organizations? Are your donations providing immediate relief to...

The average U.S. income tax rate stands at just over 13%—and if you're like many taxpayers, you're always looking for new tips and tricks to help reduce this percentage.1There are a number of different tax planning moves you can...

If you're part of the one in three Americans who are uninsured or don't have access to an employer-sponsored healthcare plan, the Affordable Care Act (ACA) may be able to help. The ACA allows you to buy health insurance on a public...

The LPL Research Strategic and Tactical Asset Allocation Committee is increasing its recommended interest rate exposure in its tactical allocation from underweight to neutral. Now that interest rates have moved substantially higher, we...

Inflationary dynamics continue to surprise to the upside, and markets now expect the Fed to pursue one of its most aggressive rate hiking campaign in years. U.S. Treasury yields continue to move higher as well. We think we’ve...

Estate planning is critical for efficiently transferring your money, property, and assets to your beneficiaries after you die. The reason people choose an estate plan is that it avoids probate. One thing to keep in mind about your...

Federal Reserve Chairman Jay Powell reiterated his warning that getting inflation under control will require some pain. Powell is likely making these warnings based on the arcane, clunky relationship between inflation and unemployment....

The difficult 2022 for stocks may not get much easier because as we now wait for better news on the inflation front, we have to contend with a seasonally weak month of September. While we got some welcome news in Friday’s jobs...

If your medical records are scattered across a mishmash of different providers, cities, or even states, you may have trouble creating a comprehensive medical history when you need one. What steps can you take now to organize your...

Earnings growth of 6-7% doesn’t sound very exciting, but given the challenges corporate America has faced, we consider the nearly-complete second quarter earnings season a resounding success. The numerous challenges last quarter...

The terms Medicare and Medicaid are similar sounding names; however, these programs serve very different needs. Medicare is a health insurance benefit program for those aged 65 and older and others with certain disabilities. Medicare...

Whether your estate plan is simple or complex, there are many details, which are often overlooked, that can undermine your plan’s effectiveness. Are you aware of these common estate planning mistakes?Titling property jointly with...

There is a common misconception that estate planning is something only the affluent need to do before they die. However, estate planning is important for everyone, regardless of income level or net worth. Planning for the disposition...

Investors cheered the two better-than-expected inflation reports last week, pushing the S&P 500 to 16% above its June 16 low and only 11% below its all-time high. After this rebound, the key question investors are asking is whether...

Simply put: A trust is a legal arrangement in which a certain amount of property or assets is held by a person or entity (e.g. a bank) for the benefit of one or more other people.Why Would You Create One?To maintain control of...

A recent survey by Caring.com found that a whopping two in three American adults do not have an estate plan1—an alarming statistic, considering that an estate plan can protect your assets and ensure that they go to the right...

The market pundits remain intensely focused on the question of whether the U.S. economy is in or about to enter recession, so we thought a piece on what a recession might mean for the stock market would be of interest. While...

Identity theft is a growing concern that impacts millions of Americans every year. According to a recent study,1⁠1 more than 14 million Americans fell victim to online theft in 2018, with 23% of those incurring unreimbursed...

Most types of financial accounts allow you to designate a beneficiary, from checking and savings accounts to life insurance policies, 401(k)s, IRAs, pensions, and trusts. But when was the last time you looked at your beneficiary...

Stocks have been unable to make up much ground since the June 16 lows, with a bear market rally amounting to only around a 4.3% gain in the S&P 500 Index since then (as of July 1). After the more than 6% rally the week of June 24 and...

For the past year, supply-related problems contributed more to inflation than demand-related imbalances, but that may be changing soon. There are at least three factors that could change the course of inflation. First, the improvement...

Each generation comes of age during different economic circumstances, and this can have a major impact on their later money habits. Financial professionals have identified some investing tips for certain generations that can help make...

A Pew Research Center poll showed that most Americans are worried that their states are opening too early. In fact, the research shows that:68% of Americans think that state governments will lift coronavirus-related restrictions on...

If you're new to investing, you may encounter some unfamiliar jargon. Understanding the following terms may help you become a more confident investor.PortfolioAn investment portfolio is a collection of investments owned by an...

Planning for the future needs of an aging parent can often be a sensitive and delicate task for adult children to undertake. providing care for an aging parent or another loved one does not have to be a task that you face alone.

Stocks have been unable to make up much ground since the June 16 lows, with a bear market rally amounting to only around a 4.3% gain in the S&P 500 Index since then (as of July 1). After the more than 6% rally the week of June 24 and...

Invest early. Invest often. Invest for growth. These are the basic principles of saving for your child’s college education. The earlier you begin a savings program, the more time you have to benefit from the power of compound...

Being caught between two generations of loved ones who require care can be both financially and emotionally draining, but there are ways to reduce the pressure. Here are three financial planning challenges the sandwich generation is likely

The bear market that started on June 13 has left the S&P 500 Index 23.5% below its January 3 high. After the initial positive reaction to the Federal Reserve’s first 0.75% rate hike since 1994 and tough talk on inflation,...

Today, younger adults face a variety of challenges in their pursuit of financial independence. Here are five financial tips to help you manage your personal finances and prepare for your future.

This year has been tough for investors, not just because stocks have fallen but also because bonds have not helped mitigate those losses as they have historically done. Below we discuss the outlook for diversified portfolios of stocks...

Many pundits are issuing recession warnings and saying the economy is heading for a hard landing. Amid the cacophony of voices, we think the economy is slowing just like central bankers want but not shrinking. Further, we argue that a...

Adults caring for aging parents and children simultaneously have now become known as the "sandwich generation."  While each generation comes with its own array of financial challenges, the sandwich generation often feels...

At the risk of sounding cliché, making the case for stocks to stage a second half rally back to the prior highs requires investors to see through some heavy cloud cover. If you prefer another market cliché, it’s times...

There are only six weeks to go in 2021 and it has been an incredible year for the stock market bulls. In fact, in many ways it could go down as one of the best years ever. This week, in honor of Thanksgiving, we wanted to take a...

New Year's is traditionally the time to review your life and make resolutions for change. In addition to thinking about working out, eating healthy, and meeting personal and professional goals, you should also think about your finances...

It’s hard to believe we are already approaching the end of another year, and holiday season will soon be here. Since holiday spending doesn’t include just gifting, it’s essential to set your budget now. You may likely...

After an updside inflation surprise in October, it’s clear that peak inflation may still be ahead, possibly even pushing into 2022. While the Federal Reserve (Fed) maintains its position that elevated inflation will be...

By the last third of the calendar year, you're likely to have a pretty good idea of what your annual income will be and whether any major expenses or big life changes await you. This can allow you to engage in more robust tax planning,...

Seventy-two is an important age milestone for those in or near retirement, as it marks the time when required minimum distributions (RMDs) begin to be withdrawn annually from IRAs and employer-sponsored retirement plans (previously,...

Since we began our investing careers, we’ve had the concept of diversification drilled into our heads. Some refer to it as the only free lunch in investing. Well, when it comes to geography, that advice hasn’t been helpful...

The holiday season is just a short time away, which means the shopping season is about to be in full swing. Shopping for holiday gifts is stressful but also a little fun, especially when you think about the joy you will bring to those...

Dear Valued Investor: The past year and a half have tested all of us, but overall, the economy continues to strengthen, COVID-19 trends are greatly improving, and this still relatively young bull market is alive and well. As the leaves...

With Halloween over the weekend, what better to write about this week than what scares us? If our positive near-term market outlook proves to be overly optimistic, we believe one—or perhaps more than one—of these five...

You probably spend more time planning your holiday gathering than preparing for your golden years. As a result, you make basic mistakes in trying to fund your retirement. Here are a few of the top mistakes people make to screw up this...

What is Tax Loss Harvesting? When investments in taxable accounts do not perform as hoped and actually lose value, investors may be able to take advantage of tax benefits to help offset their losses. The concept of tax loss harvesting...

The S&P 500 Index has gained more than 20% so far this year, making more than 50 record highs along the way. Certainly nobody should be upset with that return if that was all 2021 brought us. However, we see signs that there could be...

If you're part of the one in three Americans who are uninsured or don't have access to an employer-sponsored healthcare plan, the Affordable Care Act (ACA) may be able to help. The ACA allows you to buy health insurance on a public...

We have used most of the superlatives we know to describe corporate America’s stunning performances over the past two earnings seasons. Despite lofty expections, results exceeded estimates by the biggest margins we’ve ever...

It may be easy to forget we're nearing the end of the year. Even during the busy end of year rush, it's a good time to reevaluate your 2021 finances and turn an eye toward 2022. What can you do now to potentially improve and streamline...

Last week, Congress was able to push back a fast-approaching deadline for raising the debt ceiling to December. Markets applauded the move with a relief rally. Despite decreased uncertainty in the near term, we may be confronted with...

Whatever your age, it’s never too soon to look ahead and begin giving thought to your retirement. With proper planning, you can make the transition to retirement a smooth, comfortable and confident ride. Today, more than ever,...

When you're a small business owner, you need to pay extra careful attention to both your business and personal finances. Your financial planning strategies should simultaneously encourage the success of your business while also working...

With the fourth quarter underway—historically the best quarter for stocks, by the way—2022 is fast approaching. While a lot can still happen between now and the end of 2021, we don’t think it’s too early to...

When it comes to retirement plans, there is no one-size-fits-all approach for how to invest. While there are some basic strategies everyone should follow, it’s important to keep in mind retirement plans will vary, depending on...

In an increasingly paper-free society, organizing your financial documents can still be a challenge. No matter how simple or complex your financial picture might be, it takes some thought-out organization to keep your tax documents,...

No matter where you are in life, you may have at least a few financial goals. Perhaps you want to buy a house, save for your child’s college education, or retire early. Regardless of what your goals are, financial planning can...

Until recently, we expected the 10-year Treasury yield to end the year between 1.75% and 2.0%. Now, however, there are two key elements suggesting we are unlikely to see significantly higher interest rates by year end: The Delta...

If your 65th birthday is coming up—or if you're receiving Social Security Disability payments and are about to qualify for Medicare before age 65—you may be wondering exactly what comes next.1 Below, we discuss some...

Several policy-related risks loom in September and October that may lead to an increase in market volatility. The debt ceiling needs to be raised (likely by mid-October), the government needs to be funded to avoid a shutdown by the...

Saving for that down payment on a home is tedious. The last thing any new homeowner wants to worry about is expensive home repairs. Unless you are prepared to ask the right questions of the previous homeowner, you may need to stick to...

First and foremost, this week’s commentary should not be construed to suggest that we are saying stocks will go up forever. We are also not saying that stocks are immune from a pullback in the final four months of 2021....

Natural disasters like wildfires, floods, earthquakes, tornadoes, and long-term power outages don't discriminate—they may impact anyone at any time. However, you don't need to live your life under the constant stress of expecting...

The term stagflation has been circulating increasingly in the financial media as inflation readings have risen sharply in recent months. The term is often associated with the 1970s, which saw runaway inflation—largely driven by...

As a successful business owner, you don't want to think about your operations being interrupted by a natural disaster or other unexpected event. Yet the possibility is a real one. Natural catastrophes represent just a portion of the...

First the car broke down, then the dishwasher stopped working, and now the dog is sick. Sometimes the old proverb, "It never rains but it pours," seems to ring a little too true. When you need money to pay large, unexpected bills,...

When it comes to planning for retirement, it's easy to get overwhelmed. Putting together a financial strategy can be complicated at any time of life, what with changing regulations, ups and downs in the market, and disagreements...

The financial world is a complex one to navigate. New investment products, global investing opportunities, employee-driven 401(k)s — these (and many more) collectively underscore the value of seeking professional financial advice...

If you own a business, you may have spent years dreaming of passing along the business to your children, nieces and nephews, or other family members after you retire. However, transferring a family business—and its ability to...

THE BASICS OF RETIREMENT PLANNING You may have a very idealistic vision of retirement — doing all of the things that you never seem to have time to do now. But how do you pursue that vision? Social Security may be around when you...