Summer Update

We have entered a season where the news cycle will pray on your emotions. We wanted to share with you a few reminders.

• The news is meant for entertainment. Enjoy it. Avoid it. Hate it. Just don’t base your investment thesis on it.
• The “markets” (both stock & bond) love perceived certainty. While certainty is never achievable, as we get closer to the Presidential election, volatility tends to increase because there is more uncertainty in the air. Mentally prepare yourself that we will probably see some wild news stories from day to day and these will cause fluctuation in your stock and bond positions. This is normal.
• Regardless of your political affiliation or preference, the stock market over the past 100 years hasn’t favored one party over the other.
• Remember your “Castle” picture. Your assets earmarked for “emergency funds” or “Major Purchases” will not be affected by these fluctuations. These dollars should allow you to invest - within your risk comfort zone - the monies in the “intermediate” and “nest egg” columns. If/when there is a swoon in the markets, good behavior keeps the plan in mind to achieve your goals.    
• Remember your reason for financial planning is achieving your goals. 

 We love to communicate with you! Please keep us informed if your goals have changed. We want you to know what you own, why you own it and where it fits into your big picture.