The four-day trading week got off to a rough start as weak manufacturing data reawakened recessionary fears. All three major averages were down for the first session after the Labor Day holiday. For many, it was reminiscent of August 5, when stocks tumbled as recession worries unsettled investors.³

Attention shifted to Friday’s jobs report as stocks traded narrowly. Markets initially reacted positively to news that job growth rebounded slightly and unemployment ticked down. However, selling pressure increased as the trading session progressed and investors digested the underlying data. The S&P 500 had its worst week since March 2023.⁴

The Federal Reserve seems poised to make a tough decision regarding monetary policy in its September meeting. The jobs market and other softening economic data have quickly overshadowed concerns about inflation.

However, there’s still a case to be made for a soft landing.

Job growth in August was slower than expected, but 142,000 jobs were created–an uptick that some would argue is an overall positive despite missing expectations. The drop in the unemployment rate to 4.2 percent bolstered the soft-landing narrative.⁵

Market observers anticipate a 0.25 percent rate adjustment in September, but some contend that the Fed may consider a more significant move. On Friday, Fed Governor Christopher Waller said he was open to a larger move if necessary. Chicago Fed President Austan Goolsbee and New York Fed President John Williams commented similarly during the week.^6,7

Monday: Wholesale Inventories. Consumer Credit.

Wednesday: Consumer Price Index (CPI). EIA Petroleum Status Report.

Thursday: Producer Price Index (PPI). Jobless Claims (weekly).

Friday: Consumer Sentiment. Import and Export Prices.

^{Source: Investors Business Daily – Econoday economic calendar; September 6, 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: Oracle Corporation (ORCL)

Tuesday: GameStop Corp. (GME)

Thursday: Adobe Inc. (ADBE)

^{Source: Zacks, September 6, 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 Tips on Identity Theft

Here are a few things that may help you against identity thieves:

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) never will contact you via email or phone to request personal information. If you receive a scam email or call that claims to be from the IRS, report it to phishing@irs.gov.

People can steal your identity by stealing your wallet or purse, receiving the information they need over the phone or email, finding your personal information in the trash, or accessing information you provide to an unsecured website (only enter credit card information on websites that start with “https://”).

If you receive a letter from the IRS indicating that more than one tax return was filed in your name, your identity may have been stolen.

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

Tip adapted from IRS.gov⁸

4 Potential Health Benefits of Coffee

• Coffee may help you live longer: Recent studies found that coffee drinkers are less likely to die from some of the leading causes of death, including coronary heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and kidney disease.
• Your liver may thank you: Research shows that coffee drinkers are more likely to have liver enzyme levels within a healthy range than people who don’t drink coffee.
• You may decrease your risk of getting Alzheimer’s disease: The caffeine in two cups of coffee may protect against developing the condition. Researchers found that women aged 65 and older who drank two to three cups of coffee a day were less likely to develop dementia in general.
• Your body may process glucose better: Studies found that people who drink more coffee are less likely to get type 2 diabetes.

Tip adapted from John Hopkins Medicine⁹

Icebergs on the Jokulsarlon glacial lake

Jökulsárlón Ice Beach, Vatnajökull National Park, Iceland

,

Footnotes And Sources

^{1. The Wall Street Journal, September 6, 2024}

^{2. Investing.com, August 30, 2024}

^{3. The Wall Street Journal, September 3, 2024}

^{4. The Wall Street Journal, September 6, 2024}

^{5. The Wall Street Journal, September 6, 2024}

^{6. Marketwatch.com, September 5, 2024}

^{7. CNBC.com, September 6, 2024}

^{8. IRS.gov, May 8. 2024}

^{9. Hopkinsmedicine.org, May 8. 2024}

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.

Markets began the week quiet as investors awaited Q2 earnings from Nvidia, the world’s most influential name in artificial intelligence.

The chipmaker–the second largest stock in the S&P 500 by market capitalization–dipped on the news, putting pressure on the Nasdaq and S&P 500. (The Nasdaq and S&P 500 are market-weighted averages, so larger companies have an outsized impact.)³

Nvidia is mentioned to show its influence on the overall stock market. It should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of the company.

On Thursday, an upward revision in Gross Domestic Product (GDP) data boosted markets, although stocks fell later in the day. Friday’s Personal Consumption and Expenditures (PCE) data seemed to confirm that inflation remained tame, welcome news for investors who are anticipating the Fed may adjust rates in September.⁴

Several pieces of data helped build a narrative that the economy may be coming in for a soft landing.

Second-quarter GDP growth was revised upward, from 2.8 percent to 3.0 percent. That’s an improvement from Q1 GDP, which rose 1.4 percent. Some market watchers were concerned about the Q2 revision after pending home sales in July hit its lowest monthly level in 23 years.⁵

Meanwhile, the Federal Reserve’s preferred measure of inflation, the PCE Index, came in 0.2 percent higher in July–in line with expectations. Core PCE inflation, which the Fed tracks closely, edged up 0.2 percent–also in line with forecasts.⁶

Tuesday: ISM Manufacturing Index. Construction Spending.

Wednesday: International Trade in Goods and Services. Motor Vehicle Sales. Factory Orders.

Thursday: Jobless Claims. ADP Employment Report.

Friday: Employment Situation. Fed Official John Williams speaks.

^{Source: Investors Business Daily – Econoday economic calendar; August 30, 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.}

Wednesday: Hewlett Packard Enterprise Company (HPE), Dollar Tree, Inc. (DLTR)

Thursday: Broadcom Inc. (AVGO)

^{Source: Zacks, August 30, 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.}

Reporting Cash Payments

Individuals, companies, corporations, partnerships, associations, trusts, and estates must report cash transactions of more than $10,000. These cash payments can include jewelry sales, a gift from a family member, an overseas purchase, or any other cash transaction. You also need to report cash payments received in one lump sum, in two or more related payments within 24 hours, or as part of a single transaction or two or more transactions in the previous year.  

All you need to do is file Form 8300, Report of Cash Payments Over $10,000 Received in a Trade or Business. The form requires information about the giver and receiver of the cash, a description of the transaction, and information about any other parties involved.

*This information is not intended to be a substitute for specific, individualized tax advice. We suggest that you discuss your specific tax issues with a qualified tax professional.

Tip adapted from IRS.gov⁷

What Are Alkaline Foods, and How Can They Benefit You?

Eating healthy foods and exercising are two primary components of a healthy lifestyle, but maintaining a healthy pH is another. All foods are either acidic or alkaline, and knowing which can help you lose weight, reduce inflammation, and have more energy. Our kidneys control our body’s pH levels, and focusing on an alkaline diet may help them do their job more efficiently.  

Alkaline foods include legumes, vegetables, fruits, nuts, and natural fats. An alkaline-based diet focuses more on these foods and less on processed foods, dairy, grains, and alcohol, all of which are acidic. 

While there’s still some debate over whether the alkaline diet is all it’s cracked up to be, it may offer more health benefits because it is rooted in eating whole, unprocessed foods.

Tip adapted from Healthline⁸

Western Arctic caribou herd
National Petroleum Reserve, Alaska, United States

,

Footnotes And Sources

^{1. The Wall Street Journal, August 30, 2024}

^{2. Investing.com, August 30, 2024}

^{3. CNBC.com, August 28, 2024}

^{4. The Wall Street Journal, August 30, 2024}

^{5. The Wall Street Journal, August 29, 2024}

^{6. CNBC.com, August 30, 2024}

^{7. IRS.gov, May 8. 2024}

^{8. Healthline.com, May 8, 2024}

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 started the week strong, rallying after Wall Street welcomed dovish comments from Minneapolis Fed President Neel Kashkari. The S&P 500 and Nasdaq each posted gains on Monday–the 8th consecutive winning session. The Dow rose for the 5th session in a row.^3,4

From there, markets traded in a narrow band until Wednesday afternoon when minutes released from the July 30-31 FOMC Meeting revealed more dovish comments. On Thursday, stocks dipped ahead of Fed Chair Jerome Powell’s annual Jackson Hole, Wyoming, speech.^5,6

Well-received comments from Powell on Friday boosted markets, with all three averages closing higher.⁷

The Fed’s annual symposium for global central bankers started Friday morning with Fed Chair Powell’s much-anticipated speech. Citing the risk of the labor market cooling even further, he said, “the time has come for policy to adjust.” 

Investors responded favorably, with the remaining question being how significant a rate cut might be. Powell kept that door open, adding that “the timing and pace of rate cuts will depend on incoming data, the evolving outlook, and the balance of risks.”⁸

Monday: Durable Goods.

Tuesday:  Consumer Confidence. Case-Shiller Home Price Index.

Wednesday: Fed Official Raphael Bostic speaks.

Thursday: GDP. International Trade in Goods. Jobless Claims. Pending Home Sales.

Friday: Personal Income and Outlays. Consumer Sentiment.

^{Source: Investors Business Daily – Econoday economic calendar; August 23, 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.}

Wednesday: NVIDIA Corporation (NVDA), Salesforce Inc. (CRM)

Thursday: Dell Technologies Inc. (DELL)

^{Source: Zacks, August 23, 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.}

Gig Economy Tax Tips

There are some essential tips to remember if you work as a gig worker, someone who takes temporary work through one or more employers:

• All income from these sources is taxable, regardless of whether you receive information returns; this includes both full-time and part-time work and if you’re paid in cash.

• As a gig worker, you must be correctly classified as an employee or an independent contractor; this can depend on where you live, even for the same services.

Lastly, it’s important to remember to pay the correct amount of taxes on this income throughout the years to avoid owing when you file. Because gig employees don’t have an employer withholding taxes from their paychecks, they can either submit a new W-4 and have their employer withhold more from their paycheck (if they have another job as an employee) or make quarterly estimated tax payments throughout the year.

*This information is not intended to be a substitute for specific, individualized tax advice. We suggest that you discuss your specific tax issues with a qualified tax professional.

Tip adapted from IRS.gov⁹

Boost Your Productivity With These Tips

Take regular breaks. It seems counterintuitive, but most people are more productive when they take regular breaks. 

Do the challenging tasks first. Mark Twain famously said to “eat the frog first thing in the morning,” meaning you should tackle your most difficult task immediately. 

Make two to-do lists. One that has your weekly goals and objectives and one that has your daily tasks. 

Divide large projects into manageable steps. Make the things on your to-do list specific so you can continue to cross things out and make progress.

Tip adapted from Formstack¹⁰

Moraine Lake
Banff National Park, Canada

,

Footnotes And Sources

^{1. The Wall Street Journal, August 23, 2024}

^{2. Investing.com, August 23, 2024}

^{3. The Wall Street Journal, August 23, 2024}

^{4. The Wall Street Journal, August 19, 2024}

^{5. MarketWatch.com, August 22, 2024}

^{6. Reuters.com, August 22, 2024}

^{7. The Wall Street Journal, August 23, 2024}

^{8. The Wall Street Journal, August 23, 2024}

^{9. IRS.gov, May 8. 2024}

^{10. Formstack, May 8, 2024}

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.

Three critical economic data points gave investors what they were looking for: wholesale inflation, consumer prices, and retail sales.

Both the Producer Price Index and the Consumer Price Index rose less than expected in July, reinforcing a picture of cooling inflation. The July retail sales report on Thursday was stronger than expected, which added more fuel to the week-long rally.^3,4,5

Market action slowed down on the week’s final trading day, with positive consumer sentiment gains countered only by a drop in housing starts.

It was the S&P 500’s best weekly gain of the year so far and the best since November of 2023. The gains helped erase losses from earlier in the month, when “carry trades” news from Japan unsettled investors.^6,7

Last week’s market rally saw assists from two places: economic data and constructive Fed comments.

On Thursday, Atlanta Fed President Raphael Bostic said he had “a lot more confidence that inflation’s sustainably on its way to 2%,” citing steady drops in CPI. And St. Louis Fed President Alberto Musalem said, “the time may be nearing when an adjustment (to the Fed Funds Rate) may be appropriate.⁸

Monday: Leading Indicators.

Wednesday: FOMC Meeting Minutes.

Thursday: Jackson Hole Economic Symposium. Jobless Claims. Existing Home Sales.

Friday: Jackson Hole Economic Symposium. New Home Sales. Fed Chair Jerome Powell speaks.

^{Source: Investors Business Daily – Econoday economic calendar; August 16, 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: Palo Alto Networks, Inc. (PANW)

Tuesday: Lowe’s Companies, Inc. (LOW)

Wednesday: The TJX Companies, Inc. (TJX), Analog Devices, Inc. (ADI)

Thursday: Intuit Inc. (INTU)

^{Source: Zacks, August 16, 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.}

Who Qualifies for the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit?

Let’s outline who the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) defines as a qualifying person under this care credit:

• A taxpayer’s dependent who is under the age of 13 when the care is provided.
• A taxpayer’s spouse who is physically or mentally unable to care for themselves and lived with the taxpayer for more than half the year.

In addition to spouses and dependents, the credit may also cover someone who is mentally or physically unable to care for themselves and lived with the taxpayer for six months; this is the case if that person was the taxpayer’s dependent or if they would have been the taxpayer’s dependent except for one of the following:

• The qualifying person received a gross income of $4,700 or more.
• The qualifying person filed a joint return.

If filing jointly, the taxpayer or spouse could be claimed as a dependent on someone else’s return.

*This information is not intended to be a substitute for specific, individualized tax advice. We suggest that you discuss your specific tax issues with a qualified tax professional.

Tip adapted from IRS.gov⁹

What Are Essential Oils?

You’ve likely heard about the many potential benefits of essential oils, but what exactly are essential oils?

Essential oils are compounds extracted from plants, obtained through distillation or cold pressing. The best essential oils are pure, with no other chemicals added. In addition to using essential oils in a diffuser as aromatherapy, you can apply them topically. Inhaling the aromas from essential oils may stimulate areas of your limbic system, which is a part of your brain that plays a role in emotions, behaviors, sense of smell, and long-term memory.

Tip adapted from Healthline¹⁰

Zabriskie Point in Death Valley National Park
Death Valley, California, United States,

Footnotes And Sources

^{1. The Wall Street Journal, August 16, 2024}

^{2. Investing.com, August 16, 2024}

^{3. The Wall Street Journal, August 13, 2024}

^{4. The Wall Street Journal, August 14, 2024}

^{5. The Wall Street Journal, August 15, 2024}

^{6. The Wall Street Journal, August 16, 2024}

^{7. CNBC.com, August 16, 2024}

^{8. The Wall Street Journal, August 15, 2024}

^{9. IRS.gov, May 8. 2024}

^{10. Healthline, May 8, 2024}

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.

Monday was the worst day for the S&P 500 and the Dow in nearly two years. As recession talk grew louder, investors took a “risk off” position.

On Monday, the Japanese market had its worst drop since 1987  as market participants unwound positions from a popular trading strategy called a “carry trade” amid a global sell-off in stock prices.³

But on Thursday, initial jobless claims fell less than expected—a positive sign for the labor markets— which quieted some of the recession talk. Also, as the week progressed, there was growing speculation that the July jobs report was more of an outlier than a lead indicator of a pending recession.

By Friday’s close, all three major averages had regained most of the week’s losses.⁴

^{Source: YCharts.com, August 10, 2024. Weekly performance is measured from Monday, August 5, to Friday, August 9.
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.}

Last Thursday, the average rate on a 30-year fixed mortgage dropped to 6.47 percent—a 15-month low. Many home buyers welcomed the news, and it appeared to help support Thursday’s rally.⁵

But the announcement left some wondering whether rates would continue to trend lower. Mortgage rates are tied to the interest rates set by the Federal Reserve. Some speculated the drop was due to market participants anticipating the Fed would adjust rates in September, which remains anything but certain.⁶

Tuesday: Producer Price Index (PPI). Fed Official Raphael Bostic speaks.

Wednesday: Consumer Price Index (CPI). EIA Petroleum Status Report.

Thursday: Jobless Claims. Retail Sales. Industrial Production. Business Inventories. Fed Officials Alberto Musalem and Patrick Harker speak.

Friday: Housing Starts and Permits. Consumer Sentiment. Fed Official Austan Goolsbee speaks.

^{Source: Investors Business Daily – Econoday economic calendar; August 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)

Wednesday: Cisco Systems, Inc. (CSCO)

Thursday: Walmart Inc. (WMT), Applied Materials, Inc. (AMAT), Deere & Company (DE)

^{Source: Zacks, August 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.}

Divorce or Separation Can Affect Your Taxes

The first thing to consider is alimony payments. Alimony payments paid under a divorce or separation instrument are deductible by the payer, and the recipient must include it in income. Alimony is not subject to tax withholding, so increasing the tax paid during the year may be necessary to avoid a penalty.

3 Yoga Poses for Beginners

The first pose is a downward-facing dog used in most yoga practices. In it, you have your arms stacked under your shoulders, your bottom in the air, and your back legs straight. Your body is in the shape of an upside-down “V.”

The next is Crescent Lunge. Stand in a forward lunge with one foot in front and bent. Your back leg is straight. Now, straighten your arms and lift them over your head. This pose is often used in yoga flow classes. 

Last, we have the Triangle pose. Step your feet apart (wider than your shoulders). Then, hinge at your hip and lean over your front leg. Reach down with the same arm in front and rest it on the floor or a yoga block.

Tip adapted from SELF Magazine⁸

Hirosaki Castle,
Hirosaki, Japan

Footnotes And Sources

^{1. The Wall Street Journal, August 9, 2024}

^{2. Investing.com, August 9, 2024}

^{3. CNBC.com, August 5, 2024}

^{4. The Wall Street Journal, August 8, 2024}

^{5. The Wall Street Journal, August 8, 2024}

^{6. The Wall Street Journal, August 9, 2024}

^{7. IRS.gov, May 8. 2024}

^{8. SELF Magazine, May 8, 2024}

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.

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