Consumers Expect Better Days Ahead

by | Dec 15, 2023 | Most Popular, Noteworthy

Many consider the University of Michigan the gold standard for reporting on consumer sentiment and trends. Among its 50 monthly reports, the most well-known is the “UMich Consumer Sentiment” survey, which measures consumer confidence.

I also follow the University of Michigan’s “Expected Change in Financial Situation in a Year” report. As we see below, the index has been trending higher for over a year as inflation has moved lower and financial markets gained.

Investors believe their financial situation will improve due to a wide range of factors, including interest rates and home prices, to name a few. When investors are positive about the future, they tend to be more comfortable making longer-term commitments.

So when you see negative updates on credit card debt, the jobs market, or other reports, remember what this chart tells us: Despite all the concerns, people believe their financial situation will improve.

Wishing You A Happy And Safe Thanksgiving

by | Nov 22, 2023 | Noteworthy

Thanksgiving is almost here: a time to enjoy friends, family, great food, and maybe a whole lot of football. As we give thanks for what we have received and celebrate the triumphs in our lives, we are continuing a tradition that has lasted for hundreds of years.

This season gives us a time to appreciate our hard work, our good fortune, and our togetherness – qualities to celebrate.

I also want to thank you for choosing me as your trusted financial professional and for allowing me to help you pursue your goals. That’s a trust I never take for granted.

From my family to yours, Happy Thanksgiving!

A.I. Is Everywhere

by | Aug 25, 2023 | Noteworthy

If you’ve heard CEOs mention “A.I.” multiple times during second-quarter conference calls or on the news, you’re not imagining it. There have been an astounding 1,072 mentions of A.I. (and counting) so far.1

Some believe that A.I. (Artificial Intelligence) has the potential to reshape industries, automate processes, and improve efficiency, resulting in ongoing cost savings for companies. But in truth, it may be too early to tell.

While the impact and potential benefit of A.I. continues to develop, it is crucial to approach this trend with a discerning eye. It’s likely that some companies benefit from the new developments while others will struggle to adopt the latest tools.

I want to assure you that I am closely monitoring the market in light of this ongoing interest in A.I. If you see any A.I. development and want to discuss it, please don’t hesitate to reach out. I’d welcome the chance to hear your perspective.
1. Yahoo.com, May 5, 2023

Happy Independence Day

by | Jul 4, 2023 | Noteworthy

The Fourth of July is just ahead – a chance for us all to get together and celebrate what makes America so special.

As Americans, we have the liberty to act, speak, think, and worship freely. This precious liberty was fought for, and it has been upheld for more than two centuries, at great cost. As we enjoy the holiday, it is worth remembering that we live in a nation like no other, born from a brave and courageous vision and sustained by those who believe in the American dream. When those spectacular fireworks go off on the Fourth, they remind us that we are so lucky to live in this spectacular country.

Wishing You a Happy Father’s Day

by | Jun 16, 2023 | Noteworthy

Let’s hear it for the dads, the ones who help us grow, give us guidance, and look out for us in a million different ways. In celebration of Father’s Day, here are some of the ways you can honor the father-figures in your life:

  • Tell the dads in your life how much you appreciate them
  • Look through old pictures or home videos with your father, or a father-figure
  • If your own father has passed, keep their memory close by sharing a cherished story about them with a friend or loved one

If you’re a father yourself, thank you. In small ways and big ways, you’ve helped make this world a better place for all of us. Wishing you and your family a very special Father’s Day.

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