As a result of the recent market turbulence in the U.S. and global stock markets, rumors of a possible recession, political rhetoric and the 24/7 media machine going into frenzy mode, we thought it best to address the most common questions we have been asked over the last two weeks. FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS: Q: Is this a repeat of the 2008 stock market problems? A: No, that’s extremely unlikely. There are few bubbles of concern today that rise to only a fraction of the housing bubble that began to unwind in 2008. The U.S. economy is solid - but not spectacular. The 8% decline in the S&P 500 so far this year has been cushioned in our … [Read more...]
Stretch Your Retirement Nest Egg So It Lasts as Long as You
During the month of May, Vermillion Financial Advisors work with their clients to review their retirement goals and work to make sure their retirement plans are on track. We would like to provide you, our readers, with an article to supplement your retirement planning process! Americans are living longer than ever before, with an average lifespan that, according to U.S. government figures, has increased from 73.7 years in 1980 to 78.3 in 2010 and a projected 79.5 by 2020. While that means more time to enjoy life, it also presents a dilemma: How are we going to make sure our money lasts a lifetime so we can keep living the lifestyle in which we're accustomed, whether we live until 70, 80, … [Read more...]
How Do You Know When It’s Time to Sell?
how do you know when it's time to sellIn April, Vermillion Financial Advisors review their clients' investment portfolios and their financial objectives. To supplement this work, VFA has chosen to provide you, our readers, with an article to provide more insight into your investments. Most investors have a process for purchasing an investment. It usually involves performing research, comparing similar investments or investment types, and considering a number of more personal factors, including time horizon, risk tolerance and goals. Few investors, however, have a tried-and-true process for selling an investment. Yet knowing when to sell can be every bit as important as knowing what to … [Read more...]
What to Expect from the Real Estate Market in 2014
real estate market 2014In January, Vermillion Financial Advisors prepare their clients for the New Year ahead. To supplement your preparation of the New Year, VFA would like to provide you, our readers, with an article of what to expect in the housing market in 2014! Seven years have passed since the worst housing market crash in United States history triggered a global financial crisis. Lehman Brothers declared bankruptcy, and a host of other banks came close to joining them before being rescued in a series of shotgun mergers and acquisitions, the largest of which included Bank of America -- Merrill Lynch, JP Chase Morgan -- Bear Stearns, and Wells Fargo -- Wachovia. Alongside bailouts … [Read more...]
Three Keys to Surviving Market Turbulence
All too often, investors react to a sharp drop in prices by panic selling or digging in their heels despite deteriorating fundamentals. But more thoughtful investors see a correction or downturn as an opportunity to review the risks in their portfolios and make adjustments where necessary. Most stock market investors are looking for the same result: strong and steady gains of their investments. Dealing with a period of sustained falling stock prices is not easy. All too often, investors react to a sharp drop in prices by panic selling or digging in their heels despite deteriorating fundamentals. But more thoughtful investors see a correction or downturn as an opportunity to review the … [Read more...]
Three-Step Retirement Plan Tune-Up
Even if your personal outlook hasn't changed, keep in mind that uneven returns provided by different investments may have caused your portfolio to shift from your intended asset allocation. Conducting an annual review of your retirement goals and strategy is a great way to help ensure that your plans for your financial future remain realistic and on track. With that in mind, taking the three easy steps outlined below will help you conduct your retirement tune-up. Step 1: Review your retirement goals Your first step should be to review your retirement savings goals and assess whether anything significant has occurred during the past year that might affect either your … [Read more...]
Charles Schwab