Perspectives & News

Why did American charitable donations increase five percent, to over four hundred billion dollars last year? Is it because of the “Halo effect” that makes you feel great when you assist someone in need? Or is it because we truly want to help the people that are less fortunate than ourselves? No matter your reason, most people can agree that charitable giving is a great and necessary action. With the end of the year quickly approaching, the time for increased giving is around the corner as well. This article will provide an alternate view of a few reasons for philanthropic giving.

In October of 2018, the Social Security Administration announced that Social Security and Supplemental Security Income benefits for more than 67 million Americans will increase 2.8% in 2019.

Today's Midterm Elections feature hundreds of hotly contested races at the state and local level and have culminated with a general election that will decide whether the Republicans maintain – or the Democrats gain – control of Congress. What are some potential implications for the U.S. economy and its stock markets?

With the stock market’s historic growth that began in early 2009, many believe a 10% pullback may be a healthy thing. Such a drop is not horribly painful, by historical standards, and smart investors can cushion such a fall.

When legendary singer Aretha Franklin died of advanced pancreatic cancer at age 76, she did not have a will or trust, according to documents filed in Oakland County Probate Court. And now the $80 million estate of the intensely private Queen of Soul is about to become very public – and possibly very taxing for her heirs.

IS THE FLATTENING YIELD CURVE TELLING US A RECESSION IS AROUND THE CORNER? Suddenly everyone is talking about the yield curve: Barron’s, Bloomberg, CNBC and The Wall Street Journal. Given all the attention it has gotten in recent months, most everyone seems to know that the bond market’s yield curve is dangerously close to inverting, an event that has reliably predicted U.S. recessions in the past. The recent firming of economic growth, however, is a reminder that the shrinking difference between short- and long-term Treasury yields by itself does not indicate economic weakness ahead.