The first quarter of 2012 saw the Dow climb 8% amid relatively low market volatility. Can the smooth ride continue?
Q2 Markets: Don’t Expect Smooth Sailing
While valuations still appear reasonable, inflationary pressures remain well contained and the economy is stabilizing, Russ explains why he expects more market volatility in the second quarter and details how investors may want to position their portfolios as a result.
How Rising Rates Will Affect Stocks
While Russ expects long-term yields to rise modestly in 2012, he doesn’t believe this is major threat to stocks this year. Read on to find out why.
Jobs Data a Reminder of the Slow, Fitful US Recovery
Last Friday’s monthly jobs report doesn’t herald the end of the US recovery. But Russ K says it’s a reminder of the recovery’s fragility and that improvement in the US economy will most likely continue to be characterized by fits and starts.
So You Won the Lottery. Now What?
While Sue is disappointed she didn’t win the Mega Millions jackpot, she’s not letting bitterness get in the way of offering up some advice for the winners.
A Headwind for the US Economy: Tax Uncertainty
Russ explains why the future of the US tax code has never been more uncertain, harder to plan for and such a looming potential headwind hanging over the US market.
Positioning a Portfolio for Rising Rates
Following the recent selloff in the US Treasury market, clients are asking how to position a portfolio in the face of rising interest rates. To answer that question, Daniel Morillo says it’s important to first look at what factors are causing rates to rise.
Shifting Focus: Behind Country Valuations Today
Russ explains why investors may want to pay more attention to global economic growth data in coming months than they did six months ago.
Tax Help from an iPad
Sue has been procrastinating doing her taxes. To lessen her guilt, she devoted some time recently to reviewing tax-related apps available on the iPad.
Proceed with Caution in the Hunt for High Yield
While high yield credit provides an attractive pickup in yield, the asset class no longer looks cheap and Russ explains why he instead prefers investment grade credit and municipals.
