Posted by cskadmin on April 3, 2012
U.S. investors are riding a wave of mostly good news, but many risks remain. The S&P 500 Index closed at 1402 on March 15, 2012, the first time the index closed above 1400 since June 5, 2008.1 The latest upward progression began in October 2011 when the debt crisis in Europe showed signs of receding and […]
Read More →Posted by cskadmin on March 30, 2012
Although employment trends have improved recently, there remain millions of people who work part time, are employed in temporary jobs, or are self-employed, frequently without employer sponsored benefits.1 This situation presents a challenge when planning for retirement, health insurance, and other areas. But with careful planning, you may be able to continue investing for your later […]
Read More →Posted by cskadmin on March 16, 2012
Better-than-expected economic reports, actions by the European Central Bank, and easier monetary policy in certain corners of the globe have combined to fuel recent stock market gains. Following a lackluster year-end performance in 2011, U.S. stocks, as measured by the S&P 500, advanced 8% between December 31, 2011, and February 23, 2012.1 Although an early year surge […]
Read More →Posted by cskadmin on March 9, 2012
Federal tax rules relating to capital gains, dividends, income tax rates, and other issues are scheduled to expire after December 31, 2012. When reviewing the impact of taxes on your investments, it is important to understand that many items currently in the federal tax code are scheduled to expire after December 31, 2012. Although future actions […]
Read More →Posted by cskadmin on February 27, 2012
As uncertainty at home and abroad roils the financial markets, income‐minded investors seeking protection from the bumpy road ahead may find dividend‐paying stocks offer an attractive mix of features and warrant a place in their equity portfolios. The appeal is simple: Dividend‐paying stocks can provide investors with tangible returns on a regular basis regardless of market conditions. […]
Read More →Posted by cskadmin on February 23, 2012
Resources for financing a business may include company profits, your personal assets, help from family and friends, a loan from a bank or commercial finance company, and others. A comprehensive financing strategy, including estimates of the capital required for short- and long-term needs, is a key element in growing your business. A long-term plan reinforces shortterm […]
Read More →Posted by cskadmin on February 20, 2012
Worries about inflation have been cropping up more frequently lately, largely due to escalating commodity prices, which are pushing up consumer prices, both in the United States and abroad. Worries about inflation have been cropping up more frequently lately, largely due to escalating commodity prices,which are pushing up consumer prices, both in the United States and […]
Read More →Posted by cskadmin on February 13, 2012
Sector funds target specific industries and economic niches to seek above‐average returns. With the opportunity for greater returns comes greater risk, as these funds typically are prone to fluctuate in value more than diversified, multisector funds.1 Sector funds may invest solely in specific industries, such as utilities, technology, financial services, health care, and manufacturing. They may also […]
Read More →Posted by cskadmin on February 6, 2012
Regulatory complexity and increased scrutiny on compliance arguably has made the task of retirement plan fiduciaries harder today than ever before. Many employers and their delegates may not have a full understanding of their roles and responsibilities to the plan and its participants. For those newly stepping into a role of plan governance or for those who need […]
Read More →Posted by cskadmin on January 25, 2012
Prolonged stock market volatility has prompted many investors to look for alternatives to equities as they build a portfolio. Alternative investments — such as real estate investment trusts, commodities, private equity, and hedge funds — may have appeal for certain individuals. Prolonged stock market volatility has caused many investors to question how much of their portfolios […]
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