2015 was a disappointing year for most investors, with stomach-churning volatility, and returns that ended the year mostly negative. But the start to 2016 has been decidedly worse. Concerns surrounding Chinese growth, and another devaluation of the Chinese currency, sent global markets into a tailspin. ...
Read MoreStock prices in markets around the world fluctuated dramatically for the week ended August 27. On Monday, August 24, the Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 1,089 points—a larger loss than the “Flash Crash” in May 2010—before rallying to close down 588. Prices fell further on Tuesday...
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From Morningstar Dimensional Fund Advisors has forged a strong and distinctive culture that has served investors well. The firm's low-cost structure and disciplined approach to investing, launching new strategies, and qualifying the financial advisors who use its funds help set it apart. It reflects a consistent,...
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Key Points Stock market valuation can be looked at through different lenses, each with their own benefits and limitations. Shiller’s CAPE is a good long-term tool for gauging long-term returns; but not for short-term market timing. Traditional P/Es show less extreme valuations; but rising interest rates should be...
Read MoreThe average rate on a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage was 3.9% at the end of last week. That is down from 4.5% as recently as last spring, the lowest since May 2013 and far below the 5 percent-plus rates that prevailed as recently as early 2011. ...
Read MoreAs the New Year approaches, many are considering year-end gifts to the people and charitable organizations. Giving is wonderful and generous thing to do. Not to mention, it feels great to give. And, maximizing your tax savings when you do it only enhances that feeling. Here...
Read MoreDid you launch your own business in 2014? Or, are you simply between jobs, or experiencing a drop in income? If you’re going to fall into a low federal tax bracket this year, consider using it as an opportunity to convert your traditional, tax-deferred IRA...
Read MoreI had the pleasure of running into an old friend at the Schwab Impact conference in Denver yesterday. Impact is an annual conference for independent advisors who work with Schwab. Andy and I started in the business together more than 20 years ago. We were 20-something...
Read MoreProfessor Robert Shiller gained fame for predicting both the tech bubble and the real estate bubble, but warns investors of the dangers of trying to time the stock market. In a recent Wall Street Journal interview, Professor Shiller shares some of his current thoughts on the market....
Read MoreIn a recent Wall Street Journal article, editor Kevin Noblet describes he and his wife's disappointing experience hiring a new investment manager, then firing him after only nine months. "By the time we fired our adviser in June, I was unhappy—and embarrassed. If anyone should know...
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