Wealth and Wisdom: Week of September 25, 2023
- Mike Brown
- Sep 24, 2023
- 3 min read
Updated: Jan 31, 2024
As expected, Federal Reserve policymakers are taking a wait-and-see approach when it comes to changing interest rates – which are now at a 22-year high. Fed chairman Jerome Powell says another rate hike might be coming, given inflation’s recent uptick to 3.7%. Many investors, however, now believe volatile energy prices are making inflation appear worse than it is – car prices and rents are actually falling – and that hiking rates again would damage the economy.
So it remains to be seen whether the next move in interest rates will be up or down – and that’s getting some people anxious. It seems most folks can’t buy the notion that successful investing doesn’t require constant buying and selling (see the second item in this week’s list of ideas below).
Persistent inflation, more rate hikes, out-of-control government spending, and another possible shutdown. It’s business as usual in the U.S. capital. (Reading time: 4 minutes)
One of our favorite wineries in Napa Valley is Far Niente – which is Italian for “pleasant idleness.” That’s a pretty decent investment philosophy, too. (Reading time: 3 minutes)
Millions of homeowners would like to move somewhere else – but they can’t afford to swap their current low-rate mortgage for a more expensive one. (Reading time: 4 minutes)
Health savings accounts can be a tax-efficient way to pay for healthcare in retirement – but when Medicare enters the picture, things can get tricky. (Reading time: 3 minutes)
It won’t be official for a few weeks yet, but Social Security recipients will likely get a 2024 inflation adjustment that’s less than half of this year’s. (Reading time: 3 minutes)
Here’s a list of 10 free online tools designed to help you decide when to file for Social Security retirement benefits. (Reading time: 7 minutes)
Heed the warnings of today’s retirees, who wish they had a do-over on these common mistakes. (Reading time: 6 minutes)
Some fascinating facts about where we stand as a country – financially and otherwise. (Reading time: 8 minutes)
There may be some creative – and lucrative – options for your obsolete electronic devices. (Reading time: 2 minutes)
You don’t need to win the lottery to be financially successful. In fact, striking it rich might actually be the worst thing that ever happens to you. (Reading time: 10 minutes)
Words to the Wise
“Success is simply a matter of luck. Ask any failure.”
– Earl Wilson
Raymond James and its advisors do not offer tax or legal advice. You should discuss any tax or legal matters with the appropriate professional.
Links are being provided for informational purposes only. Raymond James is not affiliated with and does not endorse, authorize or sponsor any of the listed websites or their respective sponsors. Raymond James is not responsible for the content of any website or the collection or use of information regarding any website’s users and/or members.
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.
Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advisory services are offered through Raymond James Financial Services Advisors, Inc. Brown Family Wealth Advisors is not a registered broker/dealer and is independent of Raymond James Financial Services.
