The National Bureau of Economic Research (NBER) currently defines a recession as “a significant decline in economic activity across the economy, lasting more than a few months, normally visible in real GDP, real income, employment, industrial production, etc.” Historically they defined a recession as simply “two consecutive quarters of decline in real Gross Domestic Product […]
Each year, millions of Americans retire or change jobs. In fact, due to the tight labor market in 2022, Americans have more leverage than in the past with approximately 65% of workers currently looking for alternative opportunities. Regardless of the reason for your employment transition, do not forget about your old employer-sponsored 401(k)’s. According to […]
Yesterday we celebrated the 4th of July (Independence Day) as a nation. It is a great time to remember the sacrifices Americans made to free themselves from British rule and set America on a course to become the greatest nation on earth. For weekly insights, follow The Welch Group every Tuesday morning on WBRC Fox […]
For most participating in a company 401(k) plan, it can be difficult to confidently create a portfolio that aligns with one’s financial goals and objectives. The challenges vary from the confusion around expenses to the limited menu of stock and bond mutual fund options; not to mention the illusion of diversification. So how do you […]
While focusing most of our time and effort on the intricate details of financial planning, it’s also important not to overlook the big picture: financial planning concepts that are vital for long-term success. Below are some big picture items I find lacking in retirement plans. Follow The Welch Group every Tuesday morning on WBRC Fox […]
A recession is defined as a period of temporary economic decline during which trade and industrial activity are reduced, generally identified by a fall in GDP in two successive quarters. Well, we just had our first negative GDP quarter, and there is much speculation that our next quarter will also be negative…a recession. The stock market has […]
Second marriages can be complicated, especially if children from a previous marriage are involved. Open discussions about financial matters followed by agreed-upon decisions and actions will go a long way in improving the relationship. For weekly insights, follow The Welch Group every Tuesday morning on WBRC Fox 6 for the Money Tuesday segment. […]
Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has exacerbated an already jittery stock market. It wasn’t too long ago when the Dow peaked at 36,799.65 on Jan 4th, 2022, and has since fallen more than 8%. Likewise, the S&P peaked at 4,796.56 and has fallen more than 10% during that same time. Commentary on Russia’s invasion has run […]
Inflation is at the forefront of everyone’s mind as the most recent year-over-year Consumer Price Index (CPI) reading for December came in at 7.1%. The inflation reading was the highest in almost 40 years and is particularly concerning considering the most recent average hourly earnings data showing an increase of only 4.7%. For weekly insights, […]
One of the biggest concerns currently surrounding markets is inflation and how to defend against it. The search for yield is intense! The Consumer Price Index on all items shows inflation increasing 6% year-over-year, not to mention checking/savings accounts, and most sovereign bonds yield below 2%. One tool that can be effective for your savings […]