January’s CPI (Consumer Price Index) numbers came in last week and inflation was hotter than expected. Prices were up 0.6% in January, which means a year over year (yoy) increase of 7.5%. As you may have seen, this is the highest since 1982. As we’ve said previously , inflation is one of the scariest words in finance. It invokes troubling memories of the 1970’s where inflation was high... READ MORE

In almost any portfolio, for investors large and small, there are two primary parts. There is the side that should grow (almost always stocks), and there is the counterbalance that should give the portfolio safety (almost always bonds). This has been a fantastic strategy, especially for the last 40 years or so. So much so that any advice to stray from this balanced approach is often thought to be... READ MORE

We are often asked about interest rates, the printing of money, taxes and other various levers that can impact the economy. Ray Dalio, Co-CIO and Co-Chairman of Bridgewater Associates, put together a very educational video several years ago detailing how the economic machine works. It is 30 minutes long but helpful in understanding the basics of an economy and well worth the time.... READ MORE

Last week, my wife and I bought our first house. We initially signed the contract about 3 months ago and have been dying of anticipation ever since. Actually, it wasn’t 3 months, it was about 76 days and 18 hours. I know because my wife set a countdown on her phone for our closing date the day we signed and has reminded me of how many days were left every morning since! I’ve been excited as... READ MORE