Here We Go Again
Since I began this profession in 1984 (really?), we have been through some grit and some grift. Up and down. The downs have been sharp, quick and painful. The ups have been long, slow and usually languorous.
And here we go again. Virtually all of us in the profession agree that the stock markets are each over-valued. That a 5% - 20% pullback is welcome. That the economy is in a recession and has been for some time.
The vol - volatility – of the markets has increased. While the returns year to date have been close to zero, the rollercoaster ride has gotten scarier. The economics of the U S are tight. Of the world even more so. Politics will always be noisy and rough. Deeper changes are becoming apparent. But these are not predictive. Remember my crystal ball? It remains as black as night. Useless.
I offer these observations from First Trust:
Client Resource Kit - Markets in Perspective
Many graphs and figures. Reminders that short term changes vary significantly in volatility from long term indicators. New Administrations often shake things up with new laws and regulations. Layoffs in the DC Metro area will be very painful to the local economy, far less so to other metro areas. Inflation will decline as government spending declines. Interest rates will slowly respond accordingly.
My financial advice? Go outside, take a walk. Enjoy the fresh spring air. We have had a very cold, wet winter on the East Coast, particularly in the Carolinas. The West Coast has had more than enough snow and rain. So, enjoy the spring, your children and grandchildren.
The policies and behaviors of others should not affect you unless these are very close and very direct. In the event of a major global event, your positions in cash and gold should help your portfolio weather the storm.
Eat wisely
Sleep well
Love with Abandon!
John Graves, AIF, CLU, ChFC
Registered Principal
The Renaissance Group, LLC
805.652.6942 fax 805.652.6930
199 Figueroa Street, Suite 101A Ventura, CA 93001
[www.RenGroupLLC.com]www.RenGroupLLC.com
CA Insurance License 0689525
Securities offered through Registered Representatives of Cambridge Investment Research, Inc., a broker-dealer, member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory services offered through Investment Advisor Representatives of Cambridge Investment Research Advisors, a Registered Investment Adviser. Financial Planning Services offered through The Renaissance Group, LLC. The Renaissance Group and Cambridge are not affiliated.
The information in this email is confidential and is intended solely for the addressee. If you are not the intended addressee and have received this email in error, please reply to the sender to inform them of this fact.
We cannot accept trade orders through email. Important letters, email, or fax messages should be confirmed by calling (your phone number). This email service may not be monitored every day, or after normal business hours.