Wealth and Wisdom: Week of July 25, 2022

Keep an eye on earnings and profit margins for clues about the direction of the economy and the market. Second-quarter earnings season is underway, and the results so far have been mixed at best. Inflation is starting to eat into corporate profits, which makes companies less valuable, which then can bring down share prices.

One bright spot: rising interest rates are throwing cold water on the hot housing market. Mortgage demand is now at its lowest level since 2000, according to the Mortgage Bankers Association.

Much of the stock market’s downturn this year is in anticipation of a slowing economy. Consumers have started cutting back on spending where they can, which is some of what it will take to eventually bring inflation under control again.

The key to getting through this will be getting as much as you can out of each dollar you spend, and you’ll get ideas every week in this newsletter to do just that.

Inflation is making college even more expensive

Tuition and fees held steady during the pandemic – but now they are exploding higher. (Reading time: 4 minutes)

Why is it so hard to buy I-bonds?

Those inflation-protected Treasury bonds currently paying 9.62% interest come with lots of red tape, outdated technology, and bureaucracy. (Reading time: 3 minutes)

Where bonds still make sense

Even through rising rates are creating losses, bonds can still make sense for your portfolio, as explained in my latest blog post. (Reading time: 3 minutes)

Investing when it doesn’t feel right

The best times to invest often come when it feels like the wrong time. (Reading time: 6 minutes)

Teaching kids to invest

Teach your children about money by investing alongside them. Talk about a gift that keeps on giving. (Reading time: 6 minutes)

Coping with an unpredictable income

The gig economy can give you freedom, flexibility – and a whole different set of strategies when it comes to managing your money. (Reading time: 4 minutes)

This is no time to misplace money

With inflation running above 9%, you can’t afford to leave money behind. Here are five ways to track it down. (Reading time: 6 minutes)

The 4 Phases of Retirement

There are four distinct phases of retirement – each with its own set of challenges and strategies for meeting them. (Reading time: 4 minutes)

Maximizing Social Security spousal benefits

You may be entitled to Social Security retirement benefits even if you are no longer married. (Reading time: 5 minutes)

Mike’s Pro Tip of the Week

My weekly pro tips are going to focus on some ways to beat inflation until it’s under control. Like using Flipp, for example. This free app consolidates retail circulars, which makes it easier to find bargains, download digital coupons, and build shopping lists. Have a money-saving idea you want to share with Wealth and Wisdom readers? Send me an email!

Words to the Wise

“A nickel ain’t worth a dime anymore.”
– Yogi Berra

Raymond James and its advisors do not offer tax or legal advice. You should discuss any tax or legal matters with the appropriate professional.

The foregoing information has been obtained from sources considered to be reliable, but we do not guarantee that it is accurate or complete, it is not a statement of all available data necessary for making an investment decision, and it does not constitute a recommendation. Any opinions are those of Brown Family Wealth Advisors and not necessarily those of Raymond James. Investing involves risk and you may incur a profit or loss regardless of strategy selected. Expressions of opinion are as of this date and are subject to change without notice. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Prior to making an investment decision, please consult with your financial advisor about your individual situation.