bear markets

Market Note: Bear Markets

Negative sentiment concerning the coronavirus has been relentless, which has been spurred by media coverage and a variety of governmental actions to combat the contagion’s spread. Most recently, these have included the President’s temporary ban on incoming flights from Europe (which appeared to be a catalyst for today’s -7% trading halt—the second in a week),…

Market Drop Triggers Exchange Circuit Breakers

As if markets hadn’t produced enough volatility already in recent weeks, this morning’s initial drop of -7% triggered stock exchange circuit breakers—a computer system intended to temporarily stop trading activity, with the purpose of stopping a free fall in prices that can be exacerbated by algorithmic trading. What changed? There have been more coronavirus cases,…

Recent Market Volatility

Dear Clients,   We’re reaching out during this time of market volatility to provide you with our two cents and some helpful information.   What’s Happening?   Understanding what’s caused the most recent downturn is pretty straight forward. As the Coronavirus continues to spread, China’s economy has slowed significantly due to quarantines and factory closures. …

Fed Note

January 2020 Fed Note

The Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) completed their January meeting, with no stated changes in monetary policy, and no dissents. The target fed funds rate remains at 1.50-1.75%. The formal statement was little changed, noting low inflation and economic growth expanding at a ‘moderate’ pace, although household spending was downgraded from ‘strong’ to ‘moderate’ as well,…