In addition to flipping out about interest rates that have not even moved yet, the US dollar continues to strengthen. This is primarily because around the globe, folks are realizing the banks in Europe are essentially paralyzed. There are worries the “quantitative easing” program begun in Europe (only yesterday!) may not be enough.
Apple Getting Added to the Dow Jones Industrial Average
Last week, it was announced Apple will be added to the Dow Jones Industrial Average on March 19th. Since the Dow Jones holds just 30 stocks, one has to go. AT&T is being dropped on that day.
Don’t Let Uncertainty Intimidate You
Uncertainty can be really scary. Scary enough to discourage action of any kind. Think about it: when you have a big project to get done, like remodeling your kitchen, that feeling of "Where do I start?", begins to creep in. What happens next? Unless you take some...
Market Commentary March 5, 2015
Market Commentary March 5, 2015: NASDAQ closed above 5000. This last happened 15 years ago. Also, Yellen hopes to avoid upsetting markets when rates rise.
Keep Your Eyes On the RIGHT Chart!
Stephen Suttmeier made a pretty interesting commentary regarding the NYSE chart. After we found this on Josh Brown's website, we wanted to share it with you! Recently, the focus on many investors, and many market-related news articles, have been about the NASDAQ and...
Federal Reserve Preparing to Raise Interest Rates
In early 2015, we see the Federal Reserve preparing to raise interest rates. Well, they are trying to prepare Wall Street for the "raising of the rates." Quick story: When the kids were very young, one of our lads in particular would repeatedly fly into an epic...
An Investor’s Worst Enemy
What's your worst enemy when it comes to investing? Well, for starters the answer is a who, not a what. It's not Janet Yellen, President Obama, or Mario Draghi. You are your own worst enemy. That's right! Josh Brown of Ritholtz Wealth Management recently blogged over...

Average Returns Rarely Occur
Wouldn't it be nice to live somewhere that has an average temperature of 75 degrees? Not too hot, not too cold, just right. Here's the problem: Not everywhere with an average temperature of 75 degrees is desirable year round. Hawaii has an average temperature in the...
Dissecting the Four Percent Rule
Many financial planners commonly refer to something called the "four percent rule". It's frequently used by near-retirees looking to determine their savings withdrawal rate. It's supposed to be a simple answer to the common retiree fear: running out of money. David...
The Importance of Knowing Your Monthly Number
The beginning of a new year presents an optimal time to set goals for yourself. Last week, Tom discussed financial New Year's resolutions on the weekly video. I recently read an excellent post from Kris Venne of Ritholtz Wealth Management regarding knowing your...