Stocks began the week with modest gains as all three major indexes hit record highs. On Tuesday, stocks took a breather with monthly inflation pending.³

News that the Consumer Price Index (CPI) ticked up slightly in October injected some uncertainty into the markets. The Producer Price Index released the following day showed wholesale inflation ticked up last month. While both the CPI and PPI aligned with expectations, investors hoped for better news.

Comments from Fed Chair Powell that the Fed wasn’t “in a hurry” to cut rates were a bit unexpected, which put stocks under more pressure.^4,5

Stocks dropped again on Friday as strong October retail sales seemed to reinforce Powell’s comments about Fed rate adjustments. News that Boston Fed President Susan Collins expressed doubts about what the Fed might do in December, putting further pressure on stocks.⁶

The inflation data that came in last week—retail and wholesale—show that the path to the Fed’s stated goal of 2 percent inflation may prove bumpy.

For the past couple of years, inflation has been the focus of the Fed’s efforts to manage rising prices by tightening the money supply. Ironically, strong retail sales numbers—while a sign of a strong economy—send a mixed message to investors. Confident consumers tend to spend money, which may take some pressure off the Fed as it looks to manage economic activity.

Monday: Fed Official Austan Goolsbee speaks. Housing Market Index.

Tuesday: Housing Starts and Permits.

Wednesday: Treasury Buyback Announcement.

Thursday: Existing Home Sales. Weekly Jobless Claims. Fed Official Beth Hammack speaks.

Friday: Consumer Sentiment.

^{Source: Investors Business Daily – Econoday economic calendar; November 15, 2024
The Econoday economic calendar lists upcoming U.S. economic data releases (including key economic indicators), Federal Reserve policy meetings, and speaking engagements of Federal Reserve officials. The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The forecasts or forward-looking statements are based on assumptions and may not materialize. The forecasts also are subject to revision.}

Tuesday: Walmart Inc. (WMT), Lowe’s Companies, Inc. (LOW), Medtronic (MDT)

Wednesday: NVIDIA Corporation (NVDA), The TJX Companies, Inc. (TJX), Palo Alto Networks, Inc. (PANW), Target Corporation (TGT)

Thursday: Intuit Inc. (INTU), Deere & Company (DE)

^{Source: Zacks, November 15, 2024.
Companies mentioned are for informational purposes only. It should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of the securities. Investing involves risks, and investment decisions should be based on your own goals, time horizon, and tolerance for risk. The return and principal value of investments will fluctuate as market conditions change. When sold, investments may be worth more or less than their original cost. Companies may reschedule when they report earnings without notice.}

What To Do If You Get Mail From the IRS

The IRS sends letters and notices for many different reasons. Some letters need a response or action item, while some are to keep you informed. 

Here’s what to do if you receive mail from the IRS:

• Don’t throw it away
• Don’t panic
• Don’t reply unless directed to do so
• If a response is needed, respond promptly
• Review the information to make sure it’s correct
• Respond to a disputed notice
• If you need to call the IRS, use the phone number printed on the notice
• Avoid scams through email, social media, or text messages

This information is not a substitute for individualized tax advice. Please discuss your specific tax issues with a qualified tax professional.

Tip adapted from IRS⁷

A Healthy Side

Do you think you can’t enjoy good flavor while prioritizing healthy eating? Think again! This cauliflower “mac and cheese” is delicious, decadent, and easy to make. 

You’ll need:

• One head of cauliflower
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ¼ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese

1. Cut the cauliflower into small florets.
2. Boil the cauliflower for about 5 minutes. 
3. Drain and return to the pot in the low heat setting. 
4. Add salt, pepper, and sour cream/Greek yogurt and stir until combined. 
5. Stir in the cheese until melted. 
6. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy!

Tip adapted from Tasty⁸

Guggenheim Museum

Bilbao, Spain

,

Investing involves risks, and investment decisions should be based on your own goals, time horizon, and tolerance for risk. The return and principal value of investments will fluctuate as market conditions change. When sold, investments may be worth more or less than their original cost.

The forecasts or forward-looking statements are based on assumptions, may not materialize, and are subject to revision without notice.

The market indexes discussed are unmanaged, and generally, considered representative of their respective markets. Index performance is not indicative of the past performance of a particular investment. Indexes do not incur management fees, costs, and expenses. Individuals cannot directly invest in unmanaged indexes. Past performance does not guarantee future results.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average is an unmanaged index that is generally considered representative of large-capitalization companies on the U.S. stock market. Nasdaq Composite is an index of the common stocks and similar securities listed on the NASDAQ stock market and is considered a broad indicator of the performance of technology and growth companies. The MSCI EAFE Index was created by Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) and serves as a benchmark of the performance of major international equity markets, as represented by 21 major MSCI indexes from Europe, Australia, and Southeast Asia. The S&P 500 Composite Index is an unmanaged group of securities that are considered to be representative of the stock market in general.

U.S. Treasury Notes are guaranteed by the federal government as to the timely payment of principal and interest. However, if you sell a Treasury Note prior to maturity, it may be worth more or less than the original price paid. Fixed income investments are subject to various risks including changes in interest rates, credit quality, inflation risk, market valuations, prepayments, corporate events, tax ramifications and other factors.

International investments carry additional risks, which include differences in financial reporting standards, currency exchange rates, political risks unique to a specific country, foreign taxes and regulations, and the potential for illiquid markets. These factors may result in greater share price volatility.

Please consult your financial professional for additional information.

This content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. This material was developed and produced by FMG Suite to provide information on a topic that may be of interest. FMG is not affiliated with the named representative, financial professional, Registered Investment Advisor, Broker-Dealer, nor state- or SEC-registered investment advisory firm. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and they should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security.

Copyright 2024 FMG Suite.

It was a shaky start to the week for stocks as investors anxiously awaited election results and the Fed’s interest-rate decision.³

On Election Day, stocks rallied broadly before polling places closed. After the election was called early the next morning, stocks opened higher and climbed throughout the trading session. The yield on the 10-year Treasury fell to 4.307 percent.^4,5

Stocks opened higher Thursday, and the rally picked up momentum after the Federal Reserve approved its second consecutive interest rate cut. Economic news that showed a 2.2 percent rise in third-quarter productivity helped support the move.^6,7

Stocks finished the week with a number of records: the S&P 500 crossed the 6,000 mark, and the Dow breached 44,000 for the first time on Friday. While the S&P and Dow closed slightly below those record levels, each had their best week in a year.⁸

As expected, the Federal Reserve cut interest rates by a quarter percentage point at its November meeting.

However, Fed Chair Jerome Powell signaled some uncertainty about the pace of future rate cuts, which slightly unsettled the markets.

Citing a desire to “steer between the risk of moving too quickly and perhaps undermining our progress on inflation, or moving too slowly and allowing the labor market to weaken too much,” Powell said the Fed will continue to monitor the economy’s progress.⁹

Tuesday: Fed Officials Neel Kashkari and Patrick Harker speak.

Wednesday: Consumer Price Index. Fed Officials Lorie Logan, Alberto Musalem, and Jeffrey Schmid speak. Treasury Buyback Announcement.

Thursday: Producer Price Index. Fed Chair Jerome Powell speaks. Weekly Jobless Claims.

Friday: Retail Sales. Industrial Production. Import and Export Prices. Business Inventories.

^{Source: Investors Business Daily – Econoday economic calendar; November 8, 2024
The Econoday economic calendar lists upcoming U.S. economic data releases (including key economic indicators), Federal Reserve policy meetings, and speaking engagements of Federal Reserve officials. The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The forecasts or forward-looking statements are based on assumptions and may not materialize. The forecasts also are subject to revision.}

Tuesday: The Home Depot, Inc. (HD), Shopify Inc. (SHOP), Spotify Technology (SPOT)

Wednesday: Cisco Systems, Inc. (CSCO)

Thursday: The Walt Disney Company (DIS), Applied Materials, Inc. (AMAT), Brookfield Corporation (BN)

^{Source: Zacks, November 8, 2024.
Companies mentioned are for informational purposes only. It should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of the securities. Investing involves risks, and investment decisions should be based on your own goals, time horizon, and tolerance for risk. The return and principal value of investments will fluctuate as market conditions change. When sold, investments may be worth more or less than their original cost. Companies may reschedule when they report earnings without notice.}

Be On the Lookout for Tax Carryovers

Deductions or credits not used fully one tax year that may be eligible to be carried over into future years include:

• When you have a net operating loss
• When your total expenses for a permitted deduction exceed the amount you’re allowed to deduct in a given year
• When a credit you qualify for exceeds the amount of tax you owe in a year
• Adoption tax credits
• Foreign tax credits
• Credits for energy efficiency

Track these (or have your software do it) so you don’t forget them from one year to the next.

This information is not a substitute for individualized tax advice. Please discuss your specific tax issues with a qualified tax professional.

Tip adapted from IRS¹⁰

Know Your Key Health Numbers

According to the American Heart Association, adults should know their key health numbers, including total cholesterol, HDL (good cholesterol), blood pressure, blood sugar, and body mass index. If you’re unsure what your “numbers” are, schedule a visit with your doctor to monitor them and understand why each is important. Here’s a quick definition of each metric:

• Cholesterol – Cholesterol is a lipoprotein in our body’s tissues that forms and maintains cell membranes.
• Body mass index (BMI) – Your BMI is calculated using your height and weight and can help determine whether you’re underweight, at a healthy weight, or overweight.
• Blood pressure – Blood pressure refers to the amount of force the heart must use to pump blood throughout the body.
• Blood sugar – Blood sugar measures the concentration of glucose in the blood.

Tip adapted from American Heart Association¹¹

Gateway Arch

Saint Louis, Missouri

,

Investing involves risks, and investment decisions should be based on your own goals, time horizon, and tolerance for risk. The return and principal value of investments will fluctuate as market conditions change. When sold, investments may be worth more or less than their original cost.

The forecasts or forward-looking statements are based on assumptions, may not materialize, and are subject to revision without notice.

The market indexes discussed are unmanaged, and generally, considered representative of their respective markets. Index performance is not indicative of the past performance of a particular investment. Indexes do not incur management fees, costs, and expenses. Individuals cannot directly invest in unmanaged indexes. Past performance does not guarantee future results.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average is an unmanaged index that is generally considered representative of large-capitalization companies on the U.S. stock market. Nasdaq Composite is an index of the common stocks and similar securities listed on the NASDAQ stock market and is considered a broad indicator of the performance of technology and growth companies. The MSCI EAFE Index was created by Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) and serves as a benchmark of the performance of major international equity markets, as represented by 21 major MSCI indexes from Europe, Australia, and Southeast Asia. The S&P 500 Composite Index is an unmanaged group of securities that are considered to be representative of the stock market in general.

U.S. Treasury Notes are guaranteed by the federal government as to the timely payment of principal and interest. However, if you sell a Treasury Note prior to maturity, it may be worth more or less than the original price paid. Fixed income investments are subject to various risks including changes in interest rates, credit quality, inflation risk, market valuations, prepayments, corporate events, tax ramifications and other factors.

International investments carry additional risks, which include differences in financial reporting standards, currency exchange rates, political risks unique to a specific country, foreign taxes and regulations, and the potential for illiquid markets. These factors may result in greater share price volatility.

Please consult your financial professional for additional information.

This content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. This material was developed and produced by FMG Suite to provide information on a topic that may be of interest. FMG is not affiliated with the named representative, financial professional, Registered Investment Advisor, Broker-Dealer, nor state- or SEC-registered investment advisory firm. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and they should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security.

Copyright 2024 FMG Suite.

Stocks rallied early Wednesday after the gross domestic product report showed a strong economy that appeared on the path to a soft landing. However, stocks moved lower throughout the day as investors digested mixed Q3 reports from a few mega-cap tech names.^3,4

Stocks were under more pressure Thursday as disappointing outlooks for some key tech companies pulled the market down. A softer-than-expected jobs report on Friday unsettled investors, but stocks picked up as the day progressed, and attention shifted to how the Fed may interpret the jobs data.⁵

By Friday, the Nasdaq’s eight-week winning streak had ended, and the S&P fell for the second week.

At its most recent meetings, the Fed has made it clear that it needed to balance the risks of both inflation and employment.

So Friday’s jobs report that showed 12,000 jobs created in October caught some by surprise. Economists expected the Labor Department to report 100,000, down from September’s 223,000 jobs.⁶

Investors parsed the data and determined the strike at a major aircraft manufacturer and two hurricanes caused the jobs report to fall short of estimates. Investors also appeared to believe the jobs report would prompt the Fed to move on rates at its two-day policy meeting, which ends on November 7.

Monday: Motor Vehicle Sales. Factory Orders.

Tuesday: Election Day.

Wednesday: FOMC Meeting – Day 1. EIA Petroleum Status Report.

Thursday: FOMC Meeting – Day 2. FOMC Announcement. Fed Chair Press Conference. Productivity and Costs.

Friday: Consumer Sentiment. Fed Official Michelle Bowman speaks.

^{Source: Investors Business Daily – Econoday economic calendar; November 1, 2024
The Econoday economic calendar lists upcoming U.S. economic data releases (including key economic indicators), Federal Reserve policy meetings, and speaking engagements of Federal Reserve officials. The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The forecasts or forward-looking statements are based on assumptions and may not materialize. The forecasts also are subject to revision.}

Monday: Vertex Pharmaceuticals Incorporated (VRTX)

Tuesday: Apollo Global Management Inc. (APO)

Wednesday: Qualcomm Incorporated (QCOM), Gilead Sciences, Inc. (GILD)

Thursday: Arista Networks, Inc. (ANET), Duke Energy Corporation (DUK), Airbnb, Inc. (ABNB)

^{Source: Zacks, November 1, 2024.
Companies mentioned are for informational purposes only. It should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of the securities. Investing involves risks, and investment decisions should be based on your own goals, time horizon, and tolerance for risk. The return and principal value of investments will fluctuate as market conditions change. When sold, investments may be worth more or less than their original cost. Companies may reschedule when they report earnings without notice.}

Military Members and Their Families Can Receive Free Tax Advice

The IRS started the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program to provide free tax advice, preparation, return filing help, and other assistance to military members and their families. This also includes specific tax advice for military members on combat zone tax benefits, special extensions, and other special rules. VITA has convenient locations on and off base and even has offices overseas.

These offerings are just one way the IRS strives to make tax information available to all. It also offers other free assistance programs to taxpayers who qualify, including the elderly, through its Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) program.

This information is not a substitute for individualized tax advice. Please discuss your specific tax issues with a qualified tax professional.

Tip adapted from IRS⁷

Indoor Exercises to Stay Active

It might be hard to get outside often for walks and exercise in the winter, but you can do plenty of indoor exercises, even when the weather outside is not cooperating. Here are some simple moves to get you exercising indoors:

• Start with your core. Do 30 crunches followed by a minute-long plank. Repeat for three sets.
• Do two sets of mountain climbers: 60 seconds on, 30 seconds rest.
• Do push-ups (either on your knees or your toes), and hold a plank for a minute on your last rep. Rest for 20 seconds, then repeat three more times.
• Do a standing, reverse lunge, 20 reps on each side. Complete three sets.
• Do regular squats, but hold at the lowest point for three seconds. Complete 20 reps three times.

Tip adapted from Active⁸

Yosemite National Park

Sierra Nevada, California

,

Investing involves risks, and investment decisions should be based on your own goals, time horizon, and tolerance for risk. The return and principal value of investments will fluctuate as market conditions change. When sold, investments may be worth more or less than their original cost.

The forecasts or forward-looking statements are based on assumptions, may not materialize, and are subject to revision without notice.

The market indexes discussed are unmanaged, and generally, considered representative of their respective markets. Index performance is not indicative of the past performance of a particular investment. Indexes do not incur management fees, costs, and expenses. Individuals cannot directly invest in unmanaged indexes. Past performance does not guarantee future results.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average is an unmanaged index that is generally considered representative of large-capitalization companies on the U.S. stock market. Nasdaq Composite is an index of the common stocks and similar securities listed on the NASDAQ stock market and is considered a broad indicator of the performance of technology and growth companies. The MSCI EAFE Index was created by Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) and serves as a benchmark of the performance of major international equity markets, as represented by 21 major MSCI indexes from Europe, Australia, and Southeast Asia. The S&P 500 Composite Index is an unmanaged group of securities that are considered to be representative of the stock market in general.

U.S. Treasury Notes are guaranteed by the federal government as to the timely payment of principal and interest. However, if you sell a Treasury Note prior to maturity, it may be worth more or less than the original price paid. Fixed income investments are subject to various risks including changes in interest rates, credit quality, inflation risk, market valuations, prepayments, corporate events, tax ramifications and other factors.

International investments carry additional risks, which include differences in financial reporting standards, currency exchange rates, political risks unique to a specific country, foreign taxes and regulations, and the potential for illiquid markets. These factors may result in greater share price volatility.

Please consult your financial professional for additional information.

This content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. This material was developed and produced by FMG Suite to provide information on a topic that may be of interest. FMG is not affiliated with the named representative, financial professional, Registered Investment Advisor, Broker-Dealer, nor state- or SEC-registered investment advisory firm. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and they should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security.

Copyright 2024 FMG Suite.

Stocks were mixed for the first half of the week as investors geared up for a steady stream of Q3 reports. The 10-year Treasury yield continued to trend higher, which caught the attention of some traders. 

Markets fell Wednesday morning with news that existing home sales fell to a 14-year low in October; still slowed by higher interest rates, sales are on track for their worst year since 1995. Also, pre-election jitters remained an undertow with traders.^3,4,5

News that durable goods orders rose in September buoyed sentiment a bit. At Friday’s close, the Nasdaq, fueled by technology names, marked its seventh consecutive week of gains but the S&P 500 broke its 6-week winning streak.^6,7

With the election cycle in full swing, some traders appear to be preparing for an uptick in volatility in the coming weeks.

In late August, nearly 90 percent of stock traded above their 20-day moving average. However, that momentum has slowed. On Tuesday, Standard & Poor’s reported that the number of stocks above their 20-day moving average fell to nearly 50 percent. Traders may be moving to more of a “risk off” position ahead of November 5.⁸

Tuesday: International Trade in Goods. Consumer Confidence. Case-Shiller Home Price Index.

Wednesday: Gross Domestic Product. Treasury Refunding Announcement. Pending Home Sales. ADP Employment Report.

Thursday: Personal Income and Outlays.

Friday: Employment Situation. ISM Manufacturing Index.

^{Source: Investors Business Daily – Econoday economic calendar; October 25, 2024
The Econoday economic calendar lists upcoming U.S. economic data releases (including key economic indicators), Federal Reserve policy meetings, and speaking engagements of Federal Reserve officials. The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The forecasts or forward-looking statements are based on assumptions and may not materialize. The forecasts also are subject to revision.}

Monday: Waste Management, Inc. (WM)

Tuesday: Alphabet Inc. (GOOG, GOOGL), Visa Inc. (V), Advanced Micro Devices, Inc. (AMD), McDonald’s Corporation (MCD), Pfizer Inc. (PFE)

Wednesday: Microsoft Corporation (MSFT), Meta Platforms, Inc. (META), Eli Lilly and Company (LLY), AbbVie Inc. (ABBV), Caterpillar Inc. (CAT), Amgen Inc. (AMGN), Booking Holdings Inc. (BKNG), Automatic Data Processing, Inc. (ADP), Starbucks Corporation (SBUX)

Thursday: Apple Inc. (APPL), Amazon.com, Inc. (AMZN), Mastercard Incorporated (MA), Merck & Co., Inc. (MRK), Uber Technologies, Inc. (UBER)

Friday: Berkshire Hathaway (BRK.A, BRK.B), Exxon Mobil Corporation (XOM), Chevron Corporation (CVX)

^{Source: Zacks, October 25, 2024 Companies mentioned are for informational purposes only. It should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of the securities. Investing involves risks, and investment decisions should be based on your own goals, time horizon, and tolerance for risk. The return and principal value of investments will fluctuate as market conditions change. When sold, investments may be worth more or less than their original cost. Companies may reschedule when they report earnings without notice.}

Is Your Office in a Historic Building? You May Be Eligible for a Tax Credit

To protect heritage sites and other history, the IRS implemented its rehabilitation tax credit, which offers an incentive to renovate and restore old or historic buildings. Here are some of the highlights to help you determine whether your building is eligible:

• The credit may pay 20 percent of the qualifying costs of rehabilitating a historic building.
• This 20 percent needs to be spread out over five years.
• The credit doesn’t apply to the purchase of the building.
• Taxpayers use Form 3468, Investment Credit, to claim the rehabilitation tax credit.

Although this credit might not significantly improve many situations, it’s still a step toward preserving our country’s history.

This information is not a substitute for individualized tax advice. Please discuss your specific tax issues with a qualified tax professional.

Tip adapted from IRS⁹

Neck and Shoulder Stretches for Desk Potatoes

Many of us sit at a desk for hours a day and stare at a screen. These easy desk stretches can help:

• Overhead side stretch: Put your arms over your head and lean in one direction while sitting up straight. Repeat on the other side. 
• Side-neck stretch: Gently put your hand on the back of your head and guide it to your chest. Then, instead of putting your head straight down, turn it slightly by looking at your thigh.  
• Neck-roll stretch: Relax and lean your head forward. Slowly roll your head to one side and hold for about 10 to 20 seconds, then slowly roll it to the other side. 
• Upper-trap stretch: Gently pull your head toward each shoulder. Hold on each side for 10 to 20 seconds.

Tip adapted from Healthline¹⁰

Humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae) breaching among of icebergs at Ilulissat Icefjord

Unesco World Heritage Site, Greenland

,

Investing involves risks, and investment decisions should be based on your own goals, time horizon, and tolerance for risk. The return and principal value of investments will fluctuate as market conditions change. When sold, investments may be worth more or less than their original cost.

The forecasts or forward-looking statements are based on assumptions, may not materialize, and are subject to revision without notice.

The market indexes discussed are unmanaged, and generally, considered representative of their respective markets. Index performance is not indicative of the past performance of a particular investment. Indexes do not incur management fees, costs, and expenses. Individuals cannot directly invest in unmanaged indexes. Past performance does not guarantee future results.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average is an unmanaged index that is generally considered representative of large-capitalization companies on the U.S. stock market. Nasdaq Composite is an index of the common stocks and similar securities listed on the NASDAQ stock market and is considered a broad indicator of the performance of technology and growth companies. The MSCI EAFE Index was created by Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) and serves as a benchmark of the performance of major international equity markets, as represented by 21 major MSCI indexes from Europe, Australia, and Southeast Asia. The S&P 500 Composite Index is an unmanaged group of securities that are considered to be representative of the stock market in general.

U.S. Treasury Notes are guaranteed by the federal government as to the timely payment of principal and interest. However, if you sell a Treasury Note prior to maturity, it may be worth more or less than the original price paid. Fixed income investments are subject to various risks including changes in interest rates, credit quality, inflation risk, market valuations, prepayments, corporate events, tax ramifications and other factors.

International investments carry additional risks, which include differences in financial reporting standards, currency exchange rates, political risks unique to a specific country, foreign taxes and regulations, and the potential for illiquid markets. These factors may result in greater share price volatility.

Please consult your financial professional for additional information.

This content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. This material was developed and produced by FMG Suite to provide information on a topic that may be of interest. FMG is not affiliated with the named representative, financial professional, Registered Investment Advisor, Broker-Dealer, nor state- or SEC-registered investment advisory firm. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and they should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security.

Copyright 2024 FMG Suite.

Stocks bolted out of the gate as the week began. The S&P 500 and the Dow Industrials hit record highs, with the Dow crossing 43,000 for the first time.³

Midweek, news of stronger-than-expected retail sales report contributed to overall market momentum. Retail sales rose a seasonally adjusted 0.4 percent in September, topping economists forecasts.⁴

As the week wrapped up, the technology sector helped fuel a rally that pushed the S&P and Nasdaq to another record high. It was the sixth straight week of gains for the S&P 500, Nasdaq, and Dow Industrials.⁵

Source: YCharts.com, October 19, 2024. Weekly performance is measured from Monday, October 14, to Friday, October 18. TR = total return for the index, which includes any dividends as well as any other cash distributions during the period. Treasury note yield is expressed in basis points.

There were many market forces pushing each other around last week.

Corporate earnings reports drove much of the market action. Some of the most extensive financial stocks surprised on the upside, supporting a narrative that the economy remains strong. 

At the same time, a corporate report from one of the world’s largest chip manufacturing contractors revealed continued strong global demand for AI microchips. However, increasing investor anxiety was a constant undertow in trading as the November elections drew nearer.⁶

Monday: Fed Officials Lori Logan, Neel Kashkari, and Jeffrey Schmid speak.

Tuesday: Fed Official Patrick Harker speaks.

Wednesday: Existing Home Sales. Beige Book. Fed Officials Michelle Bowman and Thomas Barkin speak.

Thursday: New Home Sales. Weekly Jobless Claims. Fed Official Beth Hammack speaks.

Friday: Durable Goods. Consumer Sentiment.

^{Source: Investors Business Daily – Econoday economic calendar; October 18, 2024
The Econoday economic calendar lists upcoming U.S. economic data releases (including key economic indicators), Federal Reserve policy meetings, and speaking engagements of Federal Reserve officials. The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The forecasts or forward-looking statements are based on assumptions and may not materialize. The forecasts also are subject to revision.}

Tuesday: GE Aerospace (GE), Philip Morris International Inc. (PM), Verizon Communications Inc. (VZ), Texas Instruments Incorporated (TXN), RTX Corporation (RTX), Lockheed Martin Corporation (LMT), Fiserv, Inc. (FI)

Wednesday: Tesla, Inc. (TSLA), The CocaCola Company (KO), T-Mobile US, Inc. (TMUS), Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. (TMO), International Business Machines Corporation (IBM), ServiceNow, Inc. (NOW), AT&T Inc. (T), Boston Scientific Corporation (BSX), The Boeing Company (BA)

Thursday: Amazon.com, Inc. (AMZN), S&P Global Inc. (SPGI), Union Pacific Corporation (UNP), United Parcel Service, Inc. (UPS)

^{Source: Zacks, October 18, 2024
Companies mentioned are for informational purposes only. It should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of the securities. Investing involves risks, and investment decisions should be based on your own goals, time horizon, and tolerance for risk. The return and principal value of investments will fluctuate as market conditions change. When sold, investments may be worth more or less than their original cost. Companies may reschedule when they report earnings without notice.}

Tax Incentives Can Help You Further Your Education

Tax credits help with the cost of higher education by managing the income tax you may need to pay. The two tax credits available are the American Opportunity Tax Credit and the Lifetime Learning Credit.

Some education savings plans offer tax benefits if the individual qualifies. Also, you may be able to deduct higher education costs – such as tuition, student loan interest, and qualified education expenses – from your tax return.

Knowing your potential tax benefits may save you money if you’ve always dreamed about returning to school, whether to further your career or just learn something new. 

This information is not a substitute for individualized tax advice. Please discuss your specific tax issues with a qualified tax professional.

Tip adapted from IRS⁷

The Benefits of Brain Training

We know how important it is to exercise our bodies, but exercising our brains is just as important. When we continue to learn, our brains are better for it. Here are just a few benefits of “brain training,” or exercising your brain:

• Improved executive functions
• Improved working memory
• Improved processing speed
• Preserved cognitive health
• Fewer problems with daily functioning
• Better control over mental processing abilities

There are many fun ways to exercise your brain, one of which is to continue learning new things. Attend a pottery, painting, or foreign language class in your neighborhood, or check for discounts on community college courses. Another great way to exercise your brain is to socialize with others, spend time in nature, and practice mind puzzles, such as crosswords, Sudoku, or a game in a brain-training app.

Tip adapted from American Psychological Association⁸

Two lions (Panthera leo) resting high up in a tree

Moremi Game Reserve, Okavango Delta, Botswana

,

Investing involves risks, and investment decisions should be based on your own goals, time horizon, and tolerance for risk. The return and principal value of investments will fluctuate as market conditions change. When sold, investments may be worth more or less than their original cost.

The forecasts or forward-looking statements are based on assumptions, may not materialize, and are subject to revision without notice.

The market indexes discussed are unmanaged, and generally, considered representative of their respective markets. Index performance is not indicative of the past performance of a particular investment. Indexes do not incur management fees, costs, and expenses. Individuals cannot directly invest in unmanaged indexes. Past performance does not guarantee future results.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average is an unmanaged index that is generally considered representative of large-capitalization companies on the U.S. stock market. Nasdaq Composite is an index of the common stocks and similar securities listed on the NASDAQ stock market and is considered a broad indicator of the performance of technology and growth companies. The MSCI EAFE Index was created by Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) and serves as a benchmark of the performance of major international equity markets, as represented by 21 major MSCI indexes from Europe, Australia, and Southeast Asia. The S&P 500 Composite Index is an unmanaged group of securities that are considered to be representative of the stock market in general.

U.S. Treasury Notes are guaranteed by the federal government as to the timely payment of principal and interest. However, if you sell a Treasury Note prior to maturity, it may be worth more or less than the original price paid. Fixed income investments are subject to various risks including changes in interest rates, credit quality, inflation risk, market valuations, prepayments, corporate events, tax ramifications and other factors.

International investments carry additional risks, which include differences in financial reporting standards, currency exchange rates, political risks unique to a specific country, foreign taxes and regulations, and the potential for illiquid markets. These factors may result in greater share price volatility.

Please consult your financial professional for additional information.

This content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. This material was developed and produced by FMG Suite to provide information on a topic that may be of interest. FMG is not affiliated with the named representative, financial professional, Registered Investment Advisor, Broker-Dealer, nor state- or SEC-registered investment advisory firm. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and they should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security.

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