Stocks have had both back-to-back downturns and a relief rally so far in 2022. Investor sentiment has flip-flopped as a result. Where is it heading? Federal Reserve tightening, inflation, and the war in Ukraine have been the dominant big-picture forces influencing the economy in 2022. This confluence of negative factors set U.S. stocks up for Read more
War in the Ukraine, Global Economic Consequences
The Russian invasion of Ukraine overturned a lot of expectations on the near-term direction of the global economy. The destructive military action and its subsequent economic and financial ripple effects have become the chief driver of the market’s swift, volatile moves (both downside and upside) since the end of February 2022. This volatility has spiked Read more
Red Flags to Consider When Getting a Mortgage
Buying a house can be one of your most wonderful experiences. It can also often be one of the most stressful. Getting a mortgage? That process is not usually considered wonderful, but it doesn’t have to be a stressful experience if you prepare. While being ready to apply or having gotten pre-approved for a mortgage Read more
The Ukraine Crisis and the Markets
The invasion of Ukraine by Vladmir Putin’s Russian Federation troops will have a devastating effect on the people and infrastructure within Russia’s unfortunate neighbor. Death and destruction are certain. The effect on the geopolitical landscape could be equally devastating, as Putin seeks to reclaim former Soviet territory. Putin’s actions have already ratcheted up tensions between Read more
Economic Outlook ’22: From a Boil to a Simmer
The U.S. economy was really cooking in 2021; bubbling with tasty ingredients like consumers eager to spend and a huge inventory spend in the last quarter, the economy grew at its fastest pace since 1984. But in 2022, the outlook predicts a blander cooling-down period. The challenges faced in 2021—tangled supply chains, tight labor markets, Read more
Credit Union or Bank: What’s the Difference?
The choice, if you have one, between putting your money in a bank or becoming a member of a credit union can seem tricky. But it doesn’t have to be. As with any decision about your personal finances, it’s important to know which kind of financial institution is best for your specific needs. Banks and Read more