Recession fears eased a bit in 2024, with a low unemployment rate, rising wages, and inflation drifting down towards the Federal Reserve’s 2% target, the U.S. central bank cutting interest rates, and many economists thinking the Fed had nailed a “soft landing” from the high inflation of 2021 and 2022. But now the jitters are Read more
Bowen Reports
Risk Avoidance: Why Diversification Makes Sense in Uncertain Times
In a world defined by economic uncertainty, geopolitical tension, and shifting consumer behaviors, relying on a single type of investment can become increasingly risky. To manage risk (not only in times of uncertainty), diversification is a fundamental strategy for investors to build a portfolio focused on long-term growth. Rather than concentrating money in a single Read more
What’s Next? Entering a New Phase of Uncertainty
Even the most cursory glance at the headlines will make it clear that we are living in a time of heightened political, economic, and cultural upheaval, with tectonic shifts that make it just that much more difficult than usual to see where it is all heading. In the markets, uncertainty refers to a situation in which the Read more
What is the January Effect?
While most of us are winding down after the whirlwind of the holiday season, some investors are gearing up for the annual “January effect.” This is the theory that, seasonally, stocks tend to rise in January more than in any other month. It is a theory that has some basis in historical fact. On average, Read more
To-Do List: Time for a New Year of Planning
The plastic Santa is off the porch and back in the attic, the lights no longer frame the picture window, and the tree is out of sight (or mulched). The party hats are flattened, and the broken champagne glasses have been swept up. Yes, it’s back to everyday life — a good time to reflect Read more
How to Help Your Young Relatives Pay for Their Higher Education
Higher education is expensive. During the 2023-24 school year, according to the College Board, the average estimated yearly budgets for full-time undergraduate students (including tuition and fees, housing and food, plus allowances for books and supplies, transportation and other personal expenses) varied: $19,860 for public two-year in-district students, $28,840 for public four-year in-state students, $46,730 Read more