Looking at broad market indices, the US outperformed non-US developed and emerging markets during the second quarter.
Almost all currencies depreciated vs. the US dollar.
Last year International Developed Stocks and International Emerging Stocks outperformed US Large Stocks.
Year-to-date US Stocks are outperforming International Stocks.
For the 10 year period from 2000–2009 the S&P 500 lost -9.10%. International investments logged significant gains during this period.
Looking at broad market indices, emerging markets outperformed developed markets, including the US, in the first quarter.
Non-US real estate investment trusts outperformed US REITs in the first quarter.
Interest rates increased in the US during the first quarter.
The yield on the 10-year Treasury note increased to 2.74%.
The amount you can pass without owing estate taxes essentially doubled as of January 1st thanks to the recently passed Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017.
This estate tax provision will expire at the end of 2025.
Estate plans based on prior tax law should be re-evaluated to ensure your intentions match the current law.
Older estate plans may ultimately cost your beneficiaries more in taxes and/or unnecessary recordkeeping requirements.
The 10 year anniversary of a record S&P 500 high point is upon us, with several other crisis period anniversaries like the Lehman bankruptcy coming in succeeding months.
Reflecting on your experience back then and looking at the recoveries of other financial crises can help prepare you for the next one.
The recent tax proposal would significantly change income taxes, but there are many important provisions that have not been specified.
Giving evokes gratitude, improves our health and makes us happier.
Giving increases social connection, cooperation and can be contagious.
Personal Charitable Gift Funds make giving appreciated investments simple and easy.
Giving to charity from your IRA has significant tax benefits.