After a stellar 2022, energy stocks have cooled off a bit this year as oil prices softened on economic concerns. But constrained supply, recovering demand, and a ramp-up in production investment could...
Bracing Your Finances for the New Normal of Moderately High Inflation
The latest inflation reading may be down from last year's 40-year high, but many Americans aren't feeling much relief. Recent surveys show over 60% are living paycheck to paycheck, with nearly half of...
The Tax-Slashing Allure of Municipal Bonds
With income tax rates ranging from zero to 13.3% depending on your state of residence, where you call home can significantly impact your bottom line. High earners, especially those in high-tax states ...
Deciphering Gold’s Luster: Current Trends Challenge Traditional Beliefs
Gold has long been viewed as a hedge against inflation and economic uncertainty. But the precious metal's price chart reveals a concerning downward trend that should give investors pause.
Gold peak...
Green Shoots Sprouting in the IPO Market?
The IPO market has been ice cold in 2022. Q2 2023 marked the sixth straight quarter of declining year-over-year IPO activity, the longest such streak since the 2008-2009 financial crisis. But some hig...
Much Ado About Nothing: The Truth Behind 0DTE Options and Market Impact
Trading in zero-days-to-expiry (0DTE) options has exploded in recent years, now accounting for over 50% of total volume in S&P 500 index (SPX) options. With this rapid growth has come increased sc...
Beware the Concentration Risk in Your 401(k)
While stocks are up big this year, gains are concentrated in a handful of large tech companies. This amplifies risks in broad market funds like 401(k)s.
Concentrated Gains in 2023
Over 80% of S&am...
Sidestepping the Mutual Fund Tax Trap: Strategies to Avoid Surprise Taxes
Mutual funds can surprise investors with capital gains taxes - even on funds that lost money. Here's why it happens and how to reduce your exposure.
Why Fund Investors May Owe Taxes on Losses
Mutu...
Navigating the New Student Loan SAVE Program
The Biden administration's broad student loan forgiveness plan was blocked, but the new Saving on a Valuable Education (SAVE) program is moving forward. SAVE is an income-driven repayment plan that co...
The Benefits of Roth IRA Conversion Before Tax Rates Rise
With tax rates set to increase in 2026 when provisions of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act expire, now may be a good time to consider converting your traditional 401(k) or IRA to a Roth. While you'll ne...
58