After flirting with a -20% decline from its record high price, which would have placed it in bear market territory, the stock market, as measured by the Standard & Poor’s 500 index, has bounced back – for now. The drop in stock prices could resume, however. Inflation, Russia, and the pandemic are wild cards and any one of them could send stocks tumbling again. It’s a time of high financial anxiety. 2022 has been a bad year for investors. Since hitting a record closing-price high on January 3rd of 4,796.56, the S&P 500 index closed today at 4088.85 – 15% lower than its all-time high. Meanwhile, the 12-month Inflation rate hit a 40-year high last month, and a Europe ban on buying Russian could send oil and gas prices higher and exacerbate Covid-related supply chain problems further hindering consumer spending, which drives 80% of the U.S. economy. Times like these heighten financial stress and bring out the worst traits in some investors. If you are checking your investments daily and obsessing on it more than usual, or if you are feeling anxious about your portfolio strategy, please feel free to make an inquiry using the “Contact” page of our website to email us. If we can help you and you meet our minimum requirements to advise you, it would be a privilege. And even if you would not make a good match for us, we are happy to refer you to resources better suited for solving a personal financial problem and reducing your financial anxiety. Nothing contained herein is to be considered a solicitation, research material, an investment recommendation, or advice of any kind, and it is subject to change without notice. Any investments or strategies referenced herein do not take into account the investment objectives, financial situation or particular needs of any specific person. Product suitability must be independently determined for each individual investor. Tax advice always depends on your particular personal situation and preferences. You should consult the appropriate financial professional regarding your specific circumstances.
The material represents an assessment of financial, economic and tax law at a specific point in time and is not intended to be a forecast of future events or a guarantee of future results. Forward-looking statements are subject to certain risks and uncertainties. Actual results, performance, or achievements may differ materially from those expressed or implied. Information is based on data gathered from what we believe are reliable sources. It is not guaranteed as to accuracy, does not purport to be complete, and is not intended to be used as a primary basis for investment decisions.
This article was written by a professional financial journalist for Advisor Products and is not intended as legal or investment advice. |