Wealth and Wisdom: Week of February 20, 2023

The latest report on consumer prices shows inflation falling for seven straight months – now at a 6.4% annual rate – but still a bit too hot for some. That news, along with a resurgence in retail sales in January, should give the Fed enough cover to justify another quarter-point rate hike in March. And don’t be surprised if they signal yet another one later this spring.

Every time the Fed pumps the brakes it has the potential to slow the economy and inflation. If it doesn’t brake enough, prices might keep racing ahead. But if it hits the brakes too many times, economic growth could stall. And to make it even more difficult, the impact of each braking decision isn’t typically known for weeks, sometimes months.

What might a ‘mild’ recession look like?

You might hardly even notice a shallow economic downturn – assuming of course that you’re able to keep your job. (Reading time: 2 minutes)

Keep on truckin’

This offbeat but popular recession indicator is flashing some reassuring signs right now. (Reading time: 2 minutes)

Savers finally get their reward

Rising inflation has driven up short-term interest rates – giving savers more and better options for stashing their cash. (Reading time: 5 minutes)

Our thoughts on the year ahead

Here’s what we’re telling our clients about what we see for the rest of 2023. (Webinar running time: 59:44)

Did the pandemic change when we expect to retire?

It did, and dramatically. Americans now plan to extend their careers by up to three years thanks to rising costs and other challenges. (Reading time: 2 minutes)

The complex math problem that is retirement

Don’t let these six pitfalls cost you more in taxes unnecessarily in your later years. (Reading time: 6 minutes)

New Medicare rules this year

Knowing when to enroll in Medicare is almost as important as knowing how. A new law just took effect that might help you. (Reading time: 4 minutes)

Middle class benefits the most from Medicare

New research shows that middle-income households receive around a quarter-million dollars more from Medicare and Medicaid than they put in. (Reading time: 3 minutes)

There’s a plan to rescue key government programs

The Congressional Budget Office has come up a way to cut the deficit and restore solvency to Social Security, Medicare, and the Highway Trust Fund. Whether politicians will do anything, however, is another question. (Reading time: 5 minutes)

The do’s and don’ts of downsizing

Here are eight things to consider if you’re looking to move into a smaller home. (Reading time: 5 minutes)

Words to the Wise

“There are two things to aim at life; first, to get what you want; and after that, to enjoy it. Only the wisest of mankind achieve the second.”
Logan Pearsall Smith

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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.