Please enjoy our recent articles and thoughts on the markets. If you would like to receive regular updates from us via email, please submit the contact form at the bottom of the page.
We publish a monthly newsletter, Paige's Ponderings, that is sent out directly to our clients. Recent editions can be accessed using these links:
Every quarter we analyze current market trends and consider broad financial topics. Our aim is to provide approachable content that is relevant to all of our clients.
Like moths heading to the flame, we as humans can’t seem to resist the pull of bad news. Our social media feeds, newscasts, and newspapers know this and consistently focus on what is wrong. Politicians add to this with their negative campaign ads and smear tactics. It’s hard to stay positive, especially regarding the upcoming election.
While there are many potential reasons to invest in a security, many investors take the leap because they are hoping to grow their assets. As it turns out, there are many ways to measure returns on an investment. These data points are only useful as points of comparison if you know how to use them properly.
In one poll taken at this time last year, 85% of economists predicted a recession. What happened? In a word, the pundits were wrong. Throughout 2023, the markets blew through the headwinds and posted unusually high gains nearly across the board. Despite the strong market returns and overall healthy economy, there is a disconnect between Wall Street and Main Street.
At Pine Haven, we get lots of communications (emails, mail, and phone calls) from companies wanting us to invest in their investment products. Lately we have been getting more correspondence from companies that are pitching alternative investments. What are these “alternative” investments and why is Wall Street (aka the Financial Industrial Complex) always pitching these products? These products often appear to be sophisticated, and they are exclusive – so that you must want to invest in them!
Although we may not be in control of the inevitable swings in the market, we can invest in fundamentally sound companies that are also considering the broader impact(s) they are having. In this quarter’s commentary, we discuss the history and current relevance of ESG investing. Although the “E” (environment) has gotten most of the press in recent memory, the other components have a place in the conversation as well.
Though investing can be complex, there are a few basic financial principles and terms that are important to know as investors. When analysis paralysis is affecting decision-making, going back to the fundamental truths can remind investors to stay the course and put their money to work for true long-term gains.