For most of the period following World War II, political and investment decisions have been predicated on the assumption that oil reserves were limited and that shortages and price increases were the most likely long-term risk to an increasingly energy dependent society. Recent weakness in oil prices suggest that the expectation of shortages, particularly in … Continued
Ebola seems to dominate the news flow of late, and understandably so. Deadly viruses command attention, as does the risk of pandemics. While not minimizing the significance of the familial, social and demographic implications of rapidly spreading viruses, our expertise and focus in this brief blog, is on the economic impact. In modern history, potential … Continued
Changes in corporate pension plans, increasing risks associated with the certainty of public pension plan funding and questions about the long-term sustainability of social security payments suggest that Americans should step up their game and start saving for tomorrow, today. Precise estimates tend to vary, however, it is clear that Americans are not saving enough … Continued
Most of us have been in a situation where we needed to get a loan and the question of where to go to get it was the million dollar question. It is hard to believe, according to Fidelity’s analysis of 13 million investors, one in five people, or 22.5% of Fidelity’s 401(k) investors, borrow against … Continued
Hong Kong, the former British colony of 7.2 million people, has seen over a million pro-democracy protesters take to the streets in the city’s central business district over the last week. The protesters want a universal election, “one person, one vote”, and Beijing still holds firm ground against this proposal. The root issue of the … Continued
As you may have noticed, gas prices are down about $1 over the last several months. The price in more than half the States is now below $3. Repost from November 5, 2013. Two Dollar Gasoline? Sigma Investment Counselors November 5, 2013 This is not a prediction but may be a plausible possibility. Consider: With … Continued
Investors would be well advised to carefully review any company strategy that proposes to increase demand by moving to capitalize on its brand name by introducing lower priced products. High priced and universally admired brands tend to benefit from exclusivity. Rolex watches and Jimmy Choo shoes are far more than time pieces or footwear. Any … Continued
This well-known proverb may be applicable to the stock market. A recent article in The Wall Street Journal, by Morgan Housel, highlighted “three mistakes that investors make over and over again”. First, Mr. Housel suggested that investors incorrectly predict their future emotions. Most investors feel certain that they can weather down turns, when in fact, … Continued
The fact that the S&P 500 index has reached all-time highs is great news. It displays the resilience of people, companies, and markets in overcoming challenges to achieve long-term growth and prosperity. From an investment standpoint, it can also be very emotional. To recognize that emotion, it requires a long-term mindset which allows one to … Continued
As an investment advisor and wealth planner, Sigma represents many clients who have already accumulated substantial savings through hard work, responsible spending habits, and sound financial decisions. However, to many parents’ dismay, their children are not following their example. Compounding the problem, many parents have a natural tendency to help their kids financially. Yet, in … Continued
By most measures, stocks are currently trading at or near all-time highs. On that basis, one might conclude that stocks are at least high and perhaps too high. This is looking at the markets in absolute terms. But what about relative value? Are stocks high compared to the major alternative investments, cash and/or fixed income? … Continued
Over the last several weeks there have been a number of commentaries and news items suggesting that stock picking has fallen out of favor and investors, both individual and institutional, are shifting some assets to passive investments, such as index funds and ETFs. Some commentators have even suggested that stock pickers seek other employment. Not … Continued
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