As Q1 draws to a close, the financial landscape resembles Spring in Ohio, with markets moving higher, like our temperatures, to take a sharp dip as Q2 begins. Since the October low of 2023, the S&P 500 surged an impressive 28% over just five months. However, this rapid move higher has been met with a correction. There's no need to sound the alarm bells just yet.
One reason for this market surge has been the dominance of the "Magnificent 7" stocks, comprising Amazon, Nvidia, Tesla, Google, Meta, Microsoft, and Apple. These companies collectively averaged a return of 111% in 2023, underscoring the concentration within equity markets.
Meanwhile, the Federal Reserve maintains a firm stance on interest rates, keeping them elevated as inflation stubbornly lingers above their 2% target. With stock concentration risks and inflationary jitters looming large, Q2 promises to test investors' nerves. And with elections on the horizon for Q3, volatility is likely to become an even more prominent feature.
Our outlook remains neutral on markets while decidedly positive on the broader economy. We anticipate the Fed's commitment to maintaining higher interest rates will come to an end in late summer, with the possibility of 2-3 rate cuts throughout the end of the year. Stay tuned for more insights and guidance in the coming months.
It’s that time of year again! If you love to travel, you’re probably trying to decide where you’re going to go and how you can get the best competitive prices online.
We recently came across a company called “Going” (formally called “Scott’s Cheap Flights).
Here’s how it works.
There are also alerts whenever there’s a good deal on using your airline or credit card points for tickets.
You can go to their website at: https://www.going.com/ or download the Going app.
Going has a 14-day free trial to test drive all the features and to provide the opportunity for budget friendly travel plans. Be sure to cancel before the 14-day free trial ends if you don’t want to pay a monthly subscription.
Safe Travels.
Website & New Content Update!
We are in the final stages of going live with our new custom website and can’t wait to share it with all of you! Over the past few years, many of you have found us by looking for advisors that understand your pension. Our goal is to have a hub where Ohio public employees can access educational resources, financial insights, and tailored advice on their pension from a team that has the wisdom and experience to guide them on their journey.
Have you checked out our YouTube channel lately? We’ve added more insightful videos on important pension topics.
Know someone who’s gearing up for retirement or simply has questions about their pension? Spread the word! Let them know about the wealth of resources we have for them!
As many of you may already know, Ryan is an Army combat veteran who continues to volunteer with local veteran organizations. Recently, he served as a guardian for Honor Flight Dayton, accompanying fellow veterans to Washington D.C., to pay tribute to their service at the national memorials. Established in 2005, Honor Flight Dayton was the inaugural chapter of the Honor Flight Network., aiming to honor our nation's veterans by providing them the opportunity to visit these memorials dedicated to their service and sacrifices.
Honor Flight currently focuses primarily on veterans from World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War, as well as critically ill veterans from any service era. Since its inception, the Honor Flight Network has facilitated the journey of over 295,000 veterans to the nation’s capital, with an average of approximately 22,000 veterans transported annually.
Reflecting on his experience, Ryan shared, “It was an incredible journey. I had the privilege of being a guardian for two veterans, one from the Korean War and the other a Navy Corpsman who served during Vietnam. Our flight comprised of 102 veterans, including two remarkable female veterans, one of which I had the honor to be a guardian for. The organization’s attention to detail ensured a smooth and memorable trip for everyone involved. Engaging with the veterans during the trip, sharing stories, and witnessing their reactions at the memorials was incredibly moving. For many, it stirred both fond and difficult memories, as some never received the ‘welcome home’ they deserved. Walking alongside them, talking with them, and participating in their long-overdue ‘welcome home’ was an honor beyond words. There were tears of joy and heartfelt gratitude throughout the journey.”
Ryan concluded by urging those with eligible family members to consider signing them up for this unforgettable experience. He emphasized that it’s not just a trip – it’s a profound tribute that veterans carry with them for the rest of their lives.
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Paula Dunst OPERS Retiree
Meet Paula Dunst, who bid farewell to her 31-year journey at STRS Ohio in December 2023, stepping into a new chapter of life alongside her husband, Mike. While Paula embraces the joys of retirement, her days are filled with caring for her mother and helping her children, embodying the essence of family and community.
Paula and Mike share a passion for the Pittsburgh Penguins hockey team, finding excitement in the thrill of the game. For them, retirement isn't just about relaxation; it's about embracing the things they love and creating memories together. Reflecting on her journey, Paula offers invaluable advice to aspiring retirees:
I was very fortunate and grateful to have had such a long and fulfilling career at STRS Ohio. I can honestly say though, I knew it was time to begin my next chapter in life.
My family is my world and I now have the opportunity to care for my nearly 91-year-old mother full-time. She is still living at home. What a blessing!!! Our daughter and son-in-law live nearby as well. I love that we are all very close and willing to help one another daily. But in the short time I've been retired, and without sounding selfish, I also realize it's now time to get back doing those things my husband and I love. That is how I intend to recharge in retirement and be able to continue to be there for my family.
You probably know what I mean...hobbies that got pushed to the side, the volunteer opportunities that a full-time career wouldn't permit. For me, that's more Pittsburgh sports! My loving husband of 37 years and I have attended 4 Penguins games since December. Now it’s time to attend some Pirates games and Columbus Clippers. As the weather is now breaking, we are also already planning on more hiking / long walks in the woods!
If by chance you do not know what I mean or say to yourself I don't have anything like that, my one piece of advice to you is .... Go for it! Dream Big! Volunteer in your community. Try something new to you!
We've worked all our lives and NOW in retirement it is time to seize the day!!! May you enjoy a long, blessed and fulfilling retirement. Have fun and make more life memories writing your next chapter. I definitely intend to do the same!!
OPERS – Retirement Summary Breakdown OPERS
STRS – STRS Ohio Retirement Estimate Series
OP&F – The Impact of WEP on Social Security Benefits
General - TOD (Transfer on Death ) Your Franklin Co. Real Estate
General - Donor Advised Funds
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