The upcoming Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) meeting this week may well prove to be the Federal Reserve’s last effort at easing inflation this year. The central bank is expected to approve yet another rate hike in 2022 — likely a massive 75 basis-point increase. The Fed has left a virtual earthquake in the wake of its previous rate hikes.…
Everyone defines “boring stocks” differently, and everyone has their own ideas about criteria for the best boring stocks. So rather than focus on companies’ businesses, I’m going to list stocks that deliver the most consistent annual returns. I’m less interested in their ten-year annualized total return — although that should be higher than the entire U.S. market — than in…
The polarization in the U.S. political scene is likely to frustrate most folks. However, as an investor, the 2022 midterm elections warrant close attention. History tells us the midterms typically kick off superior performance for equity markets. It’s been a horrible year for investors in the stock market, but it has followed the general pattern before the midterms, where stocks…
The recent bear market rally is not surprising. That is because stocks dropped as far as they should until there is greater proof of the pain that is to come in the economy. In particular, investors need to see more glaring weakness in two key areas before pressing lower: corporate earnings and employment. Well, here we are in the midst…
Much like the first half of the year, the second half started out just as rough. However, there are still top stocks to watch. Earnings season is also under way. While top stocks to watch, such as Coca-Cola (NYSE:KO), Visa (NYSE:V), Chipotle (NYSE:CMG), General Electric (NYSE:GE), General Motors (NYSE:GM) and dozens more beat earnings, some big names such as Microsoft…
Corporate bond funds can be separated into two distinct categories: investment grade and below investment grade. The former generally have a credit rating of BBB or higher but have lower yields. The latter have much higher yields but take on greater default risk with lower credit ratings. They’re commonly called high-yield, or “junk,” bonds. Compared to investment-grade corporate bonds, Treasury…
As the bear market continues, the opportunity remains to load up on the best retirement stocks at favorable prices. Macro uncertainties may be putting pressure on these names in the near-term, but over a long timeframe, these types of stocks can generate strong returns. First, through steady dividends. These payouts should provide a baseline of returns as you’re growing a…
During a recession, businesses usually experience decreased demand for their products or services. As a result, they may cut back on production, which leads to layoffs and reduced consumer spending. In the stock market, this is a result of declining prices and increased volatility. There is no surefire way to predict how the stock market will perform during a recession.…
Since a bad inflation report last week, stocks have suddenly rallied for no obvious reason, making many investors wonder if the brutal bear market that has ensued for most of the year is over. After all, the S&P 500, a broader benchmark for the overall market, is still down more than 23% and is only about 11.8% higher than pre-pandemic levels…
In this market, it’s understandable if you’re a little jumpy. Inflation is up, returns are down and retirement accounts are taking it on the chin. There’s probably nothing that would make you feel better more than some safe, high-yield dividend stocks to buy. While there’s no sure thing when it comes to investing, you can tip the odds greatly in…