Welcome to 2019! We hope that you and your family had an enjoyable holiday season. Each New Year symbolically offers the opportunity to make a fresh start for everyone.
As always, our primary goal this year is to continue our tradition of helping clients achieve their personal financial goals. To make that process more efficient, please review the 2019 CHECKLISTin this letter and identify any of the items you anticipate you’ll need addressed this year. Then bring it to your next review or call us and we can help you plan accordingly.
We take pride in our ability to understand and effectively respond to our clients’ needs and concerns and enjoy providing timely information and holistic service to our clients. One of our company’s main objectives is to always offer our clients a first-class experience.
A theme you will hear from our office in 2019 is that we are having a “Growth Initiative.” We would like to offer our services to several other clients like you. When we reviewed the growth of our company, we found that many of our new relationships have often started with introductions from our best clients. Through these introductions we have been able to meet high quality people who may benefit from our services. Recognizing that, we are asking for your support. Throughout the year, we will be asking you to either add someone’s name to our mailing list or bring them to one of our educational workshops so we can share the information we provide about the current economic, estate planning, and tax environment.
Not only do we look to grow, but most importantly, we strive to maintain strong, long-term relationships with our clients. We appreciate the confidence that you have shown in our practice. We are always available to provide the proper attention that you and your finances deserve by offering a strong and frequent line of service, commitment and communication.
As a valuable client, we thank you for giving us the opportunity to help you work towards your financial goals.
We look forward to a great year!
Looking Ahead to 2019
2018 kept investors on the edge of their seats. Trade wars, natural disasters, geopolitical unrest and U.S political division all kept us wondering how each one would affect the economy. In 2018, volatility returned to the U.S. equity markets. During the year, many indexes set new highs. However, after a very tough fourth quarter, equity markets finished on a sour note for investors. For 2019, the mantra of “proceed with caution” is the battle cry among many experts. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act has brought new tax forms and we are staying apprised on how they may affect your personal situation.
In addition to the new tax forms, rising interest rates, stock market volatility and potential trade wars could continue to provide disruption for investors. Having a solid foundation, design and strategy is critical to the outcome of your financial plans. Keeping your plan up-to-date is always wise and will be especially integral for 2019. As always, our primary mission is to provide our clients with guidance and support on the road to their financial goals.
This is a good time to review and discuss your plans with us. We can help you determine if you’re still on track to meet your long-term objectives, confirm your time horizons and your risk tolerance. If you have any questions or concerns, please call our offices and we’d be happy to assist you.
Four Specific Areas to Watch in 2019
1. Stock Market Volatility
2018 finished on a troublesome note for investors and many research economists are predicting limited overall growth in 2019. Although the U.S. economy seems reasonable (moderate economic growth, low inflation and low unemployment) forecasts for 2019 are cautionary for investors. Equity market prices typically are leading indicators and as advisors, we attempt to carefully monitor market conditions. For 2019 we need to watch our client’s timeframes and prepare for what could be an interesting year in both equity and debt markets.
2. New Tax Forms
Congress approved the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act and in 2018 taxpayers will fill out a new tax form that represents the most sweeping overhaul of the U.S. tax code in 31 years.
Please keep in mind that each individual or household situation is different and we would like the opportunity to discuss how the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act could affect your situation.
3. Interest Rate Changes
In December, the Fed raised interest rates for the fourth time in 2018, increasing the Federal Funds rate to a range of 2.25-2.5%. Many economists are expecting additional interest rate increases in 2019. Rising interest rates can compete with equities, so in 2019, we will continue to keep a close eye on interest rate changes.
4. Your Personal Situation
Your personal situation is our highest concern. We make it a priority to keep our clients informed throughout the year. If you’d like to schedule a complimentary consultation, please call our office and we will be glad to schedule time with you.
We would like the opportunity to help you with your financial goals in 2019!
The views expressed are not necessarily the opinion of FSC Securities Corporation and should not be construed, directly or indirectly, as an offer to buy or sell any securities mentioned herein. This article is for informational purposes only. This information is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax, legal or investment planning advice as individual situations will vary. For specific advice about your situation, please consult with a financial professional. Contents Provided By the Academy of Preferred Financial Advisors, Inc. Reviewed by Keebler & Associates. © Academy of Preferred Financial Advisors, Inc.