Commentary

Why are the market so high? That’s a very good question. It seems irrational that markets are as high as they are now given all the uncertainty that we see in the world.

We live in a crazy world today where hackers and other dark forces attempt to steal and disrupt.

It’s sure to be a crazy 2020. But then again, I say that about the new year every year. Headlines seem to confirm every year that we live in a world that is rapidly changing and where the unthinkable seems to happen on an accelerated basis. I suspect this year will be exactly the same.

Listed below are three issues we will be monitoring in the New Year which we will be commenting on in future updates (and there are many other issues we will be watching). They are as follows:

Politics

Please accept our best wishes for a blessed holiday season for you and your loved ones.

It appears as if Phase 1 of the United States China trade agreement is in place.

The Federal Reserve announced this week that they would remain on the sidelines and not move rates higher. They signaled that inflation would have to be quite strong before they would take action.

As you probably know, we are a firm not just focused on investment management, but we believe strongly in developing financial planning strategies for those we work with.

Every year there is one day that reminds us how much we have to be grateful for. Family, friends, and so much more. Thanksgiving is an opportunity for us to stop and realize how blessed we all are.

The retail revolution continues. Shopping malls are under increasing pressure as retailers declare bankruptcy at a record rate.

I am asked many questions about the economy and markets. They often focus on what is perceived to be excess euphoria in financial markets and if I believe the end is near for the so-called "good times".