Bradenton Times News Articles

Since 2009, market volatility has sent many investors running to U.S. Treasurys for safety, which raised concerns that a “bond bubble” might be forming. However, investors who understand the dynamics of our current economy might more appropriately compare bonds to a tire with a slow leak – no matter how much you pump it up, it isn’t likely to carry you fast or far. Below we will provide an objective look at Treasurys and the alternatives available to those seeking more immediate or reliable yield.

The equity markets enjoyed another week of record highs by the popular averages as stocks ride a powerful wave of bullish momentum. A great deal of the credit for the success of the stock market the past four years has been given to the Federal Reserve and their policy of free money. But we believe there is much more than quantitative easing that has triggered one of the broadest based moves in market history. 

According to a study reported in Forbes in 2010, only 35 percent of Americans have a will, and many of those who do spent less time planning for it than they did their last vacation. In neglecting estate planning, though, they run the risk of losing a sizable portion of their estate to taxes and fees. In establishing objectives for transferring your estate, it is important to develop a wealth management plan that matches your priorities

Florida's Deferred Retirement Option Program provides a unique opportunity for the state's public sector employees. But what is the best way to utilize its advantages? That answer can vary depending on the retiree's specific personal, financial and familial situation. One local financial advisor is conducting free seminars geared specifically at FRS members who are currently in, or are considering enrolling in the DROP program.

The Dow Industrials punched through a new round number (15,000) as the popular averages gained 1.0% or more last week. In addition to a positive trend the equity markets have re-established powerful upside momentum similar to what was experienced in January when the market soared out of the gate. Last week’s performance included a rotation of areas that had been lagging including industrials, technology, materials and energy. Defensive sectors that had been leading the market including consumer staples, telecom, utilities and health care pulled back. It is too early to conclude that the shift in leadership is more than an oversold bounce, but continued improvement in aggressive areas of the market would suggest that stocks have more room on the upside.  

The Better Business Bureau of West Florida is warning consumers in Florida about a bill payment scam that is targeting utility customers, as well as another involving MoneyPak transfers. The West Florida BBB offered the following tips on how cosumers could protect themselves from being defrauded by scammers.

As high school seniors prepare to celebrate graduation, many of their parents are already thinking about the large bills that will accompany the start of college in the fall. Meanwhile, the price of higher education continues to rise at a time when most household incomes are not. Baird’s Wealth Management Insights brief for May offers ideas to help you and your child make this important investment wisely.

The equity markets found another gear last week with virtually all domestic indices soaring to new all-time peaks. Continued strength in housing and auto sales coupled with the better than expected jobs data last week helped restore confidence that the economy, while far from escape velocity, is stable. Stocks typically do best when the economy is dragging its feet as inflation pressures are anchored and interest rates remain low. When the Bernanke ‘put’ is added to the mix the backdrop for the stock market is bullish.

Life insurance can provide unique financial planning benefits, including an extremely tax-efficient way to transfer wealth to your heirs. However, with premium rates on life insurance policies increasing for the first time in decades, your window of opportunity to determine whether your policy is properly aligned with your financial goals may be narrower than you think.

The equity markets ignored a string of negative economic reports and weaker than expected first quarter earnings reports to finish broadly higher last week. The Dow Industrials gained slightly less than 1.5% but the NASDAQ, which had been lagging jumped more than 2.0%. Small and mid-cap stocks that also had been underperforming relative to large caps are now within striking distance of their 2013 highs. More importantly, foreign equity markets found a temporary bottom and enjoyed a good rally last week.