Individual - Commentary & Outlook
November 14, 2024
With Donald Trump’s recent victory in the presidential election, financial markets are poised for potential shifts across various sectors. Historically, markets tend to stabilize when political outcomes are clear, and now that the election is settled, initial uncertainty has eased. However, as we assess the implications of a Trump presidency, investors are watching closely for policy changes that could affect different asset classes.
Read MoreRead MoreWatch NowFinancial Planning
November 13, 2024
At Pinnacle Associates, we understand that addressing health-related financial issues requires both sensitivity and a proactive approach. In this Fall edition of our Financial Planning newsletter, we explore key areas that will help you navigate the financial complexities as you approach retirement. Inside this guide, you’ll discover important insights on maximizing Social Security benefits, managing portfolio allocations, making the most of Roth conversions, and understanding Medicare. We also address the potential impacts of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act’s impending sunset and offer personalized strategies for safeguarding your investments as you move into this next chapter of life.
Read MoreRead MoreWatch Now
Individual - Commentary & Outlook
October 18, 2024
U.S. equity markets saw broad gains in Q3, with all major indices posting positive returns. Notably, market leadership, which had been concentrated in large-cap tech, broadened as other sectors and asset classes joined the fun. This is reflected in the impressive performance of the equal-weighted S&P 500, up 9.1% for the quarter, surpassing the market-cap weighted S&P 500’s gain of 5.53%. Small cap companies also advanced, with the Russell 2000 rising 8.9%. The top-performing industries included asset managers, utilities, building products, REITs, property and casualty insurers, credit cards, and cruise lines. On the flip side, energy, semiconductors, software, money-center banks, department stores, steel, and autos lagged behind.
Read MoreRead MoreWatch Now
Individual - Commentary & Outlook
September 24, 2024
Last week’s decision by the Federal Reserve to cut the federal funds rate by 50 basis points marks a significant moment in the central banks’ continual effort to manage the U.S. economy’s trajectory. This move reduced the benchmark rate to a range between 4.75% and 5%, positioning the Fed into a new phase of monetary policy. While rate cuts typically aim to stimulate growth in times of crisis, we caution against reading into the magnitude of this cut and whether it reflects concerns that go beyond merely fine-tuning inflation control.
Read MoreRead MoreWatch NowIndividual - In the News
July 24, 2024
The unprecedented nature of such a late change in Presidential candidate from one of the major parties – along with the high probability of more twists and turns ahead – will likely contribute to an increase in volatility, which has been quite low for a prolonged period.
Read MoreRead MoreWatch NowFinancial Planning
September 24, 2024
In a perfect world, you would know the amount needed for all your young scholars’ educational needs, and you would have that exact figure in a 529 plan. That’s not always realistic, however, as sometimes plans change and it’s hard to predict the exact figure needed for educational expenses. Thanks to the Secure Act 2.0, some of the worries surrounding overfunding 529 plans have been diminished. Starting in 2024, under certain conditions, 529 account holders can transfer up to a lifetime limit of $35,000 to a Roth IRA for the 529 plan beneficiary. But, of course, there are some restrictions and rules surrounding this exciting update.
Read MoreRead MoreWatch NowIndividual - Commentary & Outlook
July 10, 2024
Major US equity indices put in a mixed performance in Q2, with the Dow falling (1.7%), while major performance contributions from some of the Magnificent 7 stocks helped drive the S&P and Nasdaq 3.9% and 8.3% higher, respectively. Many commentators aired concerns about market breadth as the official market cap-weighted S&P bested its equal-weight variant by nearly seven percentage points in the quarter.
Read MoreRead MoreWatch NowIndividual - In the News
June 18, 2024
For most, Texas conjures images of cowboys, oil, and barbeque -- not ticker tape and fast-paced securities trading. That could soon change if BlackRock, the world’s biggest money manager, and Citadel Securities, one of the largest electronic trading firms, have anything to say about it. The two financial heavyweights are leading a group backing The Texas Stock Exchange (TXSE), which has raised $120M to launch a 100% electronic trading exchange, with a physical presence in downtown Dallas. The TXSE plans to file a registration statement with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) later this year with a goal of beginning trading in 2025 and listing companies in 2026.
Read MoreRead MoreWatch NowIndividual - Commentary & Outlook
May 7, 2024
In our Spring 2024 Financial Planning Newsletter, we dive into various financial planning topics that can often accompany serious illness. Inside this guide, you will find essential insights on disability insurance, estate planning, life insurance post-diagnosis and strategies for itemizing medical expenses. We also discuss how these factors can impact your overall financial plan. While it can be difficult to discuss these topics, our financial planning committee continues to emphasize the importance of planning ahead. As always, our team is here to support you in reviewing and strengthening your financial plan - especially during uncertain times.
Read MoreRead MoreWatch NowIndividual - Commentary & Outlook
April 19, 2024
The S&P 500 notched its biggest Q1 advance in half a decade, rising 10.2%. This marked the index’s fifth gain in the last six quarters and a second straight double-digit quarterly percentage gain. Meanwhile, the Nasdaq narrowly missed what would have been its fourth double-digit percentage gain in the last five quarters.
Read MoreRead MoreWatch NowIndividual - Commentary & Outlook
March 20, 2024
We are excited to share with you this concise report on Bitcoin – which serves as a companion piece to our recent full-length podcast episode – where Adam Armstrong and Austin Hagaman discussed Bitcoin basics, its pricing, the upcoming halving-event, the recent host of ETFs and much more! Click to download the full report and gain access to our full analysis and be sure to listen to the full episode of our podcast, Amplified Wealth for a more comprehensive discussion on the digital currency and its future in the marketplace.
Read MoreRead MoreWatch NowIndividual - Commentary & Outlook
January 22, 2024
What a difference a year can make. US equities rose in 2023, with the major indices erasing their 2022 declines. The Dow achieved an all-time high, while the S&P closed the year a touch short of its record close from January of 2022. The positive year for the market appeared to be in jeopardy as stock pulled back throughout Q3 before bottoming in late October and rallying into year-end.
Read MoreRead MoreWatch NowIndividual - Commentary & Outlook
December 15, 2023
A soft landing - once thought to only be achieved by Mr. Clause himself as he arrives on rooftops around the world – has potentially been attained by The Fed after a two-year tightening cycle. On Wednesday, the Federal Reserve announced optimism about a soft landing, known as the long-awaited “Fed-Pivot” – projecting short-term rate cuts and a gradual return of inflation to its 2.0% goal without a recession. Despite maintaining current interest rates and tightening pace, the Fed revised its short-term interest rate projections significantly downward.
Read MoreRead MoreWatch NowIndividual - Commentary & Outlook
November 22, 2023
To help you plan for the upcoming season, we are excited to share with you our 2024 Key Tax Facts sheet. This two-page sheet provides a snapshot on all of the latest tax updates to help you begin your tax planning process.
Read MoreRead MoreWatch NowFinancial Planning
November 8, 2023
At Pinnacle Associates, we firmly believe that effective long-term financial success hinges on proactive planning. With this in mind, we share some valuable year-end planning tips to ensure that you end this year and begin the next year feeling well informed and prepared for what’s ahead.
Read MoreRead MoreWatch NowIndividual - Commentary & Outlook
October 18, 2023
Major US equity indices retreated in Q3, with the S&P 500 hitting a year-to-date high at the end of July but falling thereafter, closing the quarter -3.7% lower, with most of the decline taking place during September. Still, the benchmark sits at +12.1% year-to-date at quarter-end.
Read MoreRead MoreWatch NowFinancial Planning
September 15, 2023
For parents saving for their children’s college education, a Section 529 plan may offer several advantages. Section 529 plans are operated by individual states and let families set aside money to cover future education expenses on behalf of account beneficiaries.
Read MoreRead MoreWatch NowFinancial Planning
September 15, 2023
Financial planning is the process of evaluating and choosing an optimal strategy to achieve your financial goals. We work with you to create a personalized plan based on an integrated review of your unique circumstances. As your life changes, we make adjustments to your plan and portfolio, keeping you on the path to success.
Read MoreRead MoreWatch NowFinancial Planning
September 15, 2023
A Roth conversion is the transfer of funds from a Traditional (pre-tax) retirement account to a Roth (after-tax) retirement account. Taxes are paid on the funds converted in the year of conversion.
Read MoreRead MoreWatch NowFinancial Planning
September 15, 2023
401(k) plans are tax-preferred investment accounts managed by employers. Traditionally, 401(k)s are funded with pre-tax dollars and taxed at withdrawal. Some plans have Roth options in which the account is funded with after-tax dollars and no tax is paid at withdrawal.
Read MoreRead MoreWatch NowFinancial Planning
November 8, 2023
IRAs (individual retirement accounts) are tax-preferred investment accounts intended for retirement savings. Roth and Traditional IRAs both benefit from not paying taxes on gains when realized, but they differ in when they are taxed.
Read MoreRead MoreWatch NowFinancial Planning
September 15, 2023
One of the greatest ways we can add value to our clients is by removing the emotional aspect from investment decisions. Our team has successfully guided numerous entrepreneurs/families through some of the most significant monetary events in their lifetime. Helping clients prosper in a new phase of life is one of our strengths.
Read MoreRead MoreWatch NowFinancial Planning
September 15, 2023
The Secure Act 2.0 was signed into legislation on December 29, 2022 – with the goal of improving retirement savings options in the United States. And while the bill contains over 90 provisions designed to help Americans strengthen their financial security, we’ve identified the key provisions for individuals in this cheat sheet.
Read MoreRead MoreWatch NowIndividual - Commentary & Outlook
September 15, 2023
The Fed may have avoided recession for now, but more economic pain may be necessary to bring inflation down to its long-term target.
Read MoreRead MoreWatch NowIndividual - Commentary & Outlook
September 15, 2023
The first half of 2023 has concluded, and it is one for the record books. Despite seemingly countless reasons to be wary of the markets – regional banks collapsing, core inflation (excluding food and energy) stubbornly remaining above or near 5% and a debt-ceiling resolution being pushed to the 11th hour– the S&P 500 climbed over 16% on a total return basis to start the first half of the year.
Read MoreRead MoreWatch Now
Individual - In the News
September 15, 2023
As investment managers, it is part of our nature to think about the impact of evolving technology. How will innovative technologies affect our lives? Which companies will benefit? How can modern technologies enhance our capabilities as investment advisors to better serve our clients?
Read MoreRead MoreWatch Now
Individual - In the News
September 15, 2023
Pinnacle Associates congratulates Jim Ferrare, CFA, CPA on being included in this year’s Forbes Best in State Wealth Advisors rankings as recognition of his commitment to putting clients first, leading with exceptional ideas, and demonstrating integrity. It’s the sixth year in a row that Jim has been included on the list.
Read MoreRead MoreWatch NowIndividual - Commentary & Outlook
November 14, 2024
With Donald Trump’s recent victory in the presidential election, financial markets are poised for potential shifts across various sectors. Historically, markets tend to stabilize when political outcomes are clear, and now that the election is settled, initial uncertainty has eased. However, as we assess the implications of a Trump presidency, investors are watching closely for policy changes that could affect different asset classes.
Read MoreRead MoreWatch NowIndividual - Commentary & Outlook
October 18, 2024
U.S. equity markets saw broad gains in Q3, with all major indices posting positive returns. Notably, market leadership, which had been concentrated in large-cap tech, broadened as other sectors and asset classes joined the fun. This is reflected in the impressive performance of the equal-weighted S&P 500, up 9.1% for the quarter, surpassing the market-cap weighted S&P 500’s gain of 5.53%. Small cap companies also advanced, with the Russell 2000 rising 8.9%. The top-performing industries included asset managers, utilities, building products, REITs, property and casualty insurers, credit cards, and cruise lines. On the flip side, energy, semiconductors, software, money-center banks, department stores, steel, and autos lagged behind.
Read MoreRead MoreWatch NowIndividual - Commentary & Outlook
September 24, 2024
Last week’s decision by the Federal Reserve to cut the federal funds rate by 50 basis points marks a significant moment in the central banks’ continual effort to manage the U.S. economy’s trajectory. This move reduced the benchmark rate to a range between 4.75% and 5%, positioning the Fed into a new phase of monetary policy. While rate cuts typically aim to stimulate growth in times of crisis, we caution against reading into the magnitude of this cut and whether it reflects concerns that go beyond merely fine-tuning inflation control.
Read MoreRead MoreWatch NowIndividual - In the News
July 24, 2024
The unprecedented nature of such a late change in Presidential candidate from one of the major parties – along with the high probability of more twists and turns ahead – will likely contribute to an increase in volatility, which has been quite low for a prolonged period.
Read MoreRead MoreWatch NowIndividual - Commentary & Outlook
July 10, 2024
Major US equity indices put in a mixed performance in Q2, with the Dow falling (1.7%), while major performance contributions from some of the Magnificent 7 stocks helped drive the S&P and Nasdaq 3.9% and 8.3% higher, respectively. Many commentators aired concerns about market breadth as the official market cap-weighted S&P bested its equal-weight variant by nearly seven percentage points in the quarter.
Read MoreRead MoreWatch NowIndividual - In the News
June 18, 2024
For most, Texas conjures images of cowboys, oil, and barbeque -- not ticker tape and fast-paced securities trading. That could soon change if BlackRock, the world’s biggest money manager, and Citadel Securities, one of the largest electronic trading firms, have anything to say about it. The two financial heavyweights are leading a group backing The Texas Stock Exchange (TXSE), which has raised $120M to launch a 100% electronic trading exchange, with a physical presence in downtown Dallas. The TXSE plans to file a registration statement with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) later this year with a goal of beginning trading in 2025 and listing companies in 2026.
Read MoreRead MoreWatch NowIndividual - Commentary & Outlook
May 7, 2024
In our Spring 2024 Financial Planning Newsletter, we dive into various financial planning topics that can often accompany serious illness. Inside this guide, you will find essential insights on disability insurance, estate planning, life insurance post-diagnosis and strategies for itemizing medical expenses. We also discuss how these factors can impact your overall financial plan. While it can be difficult to discuss these topics, our financial planning committee continues to emphasize the importance of planning ahead. As always, our team is here to support you in reviewing and strengthening your financial plan - especially during uncertain times.
Read MoreRead MoreWatch NowIndividual - Commentary & Outlook
April 19, 2024
The S&P 500 notched its biggest Q1 advance in half a decade, rising 10.2%. This marked the index’s fifth gain in the last six quarters and a second straight double-digit quarterly percentage gain. Meanwhile, the Nasdaq narrowly missed what would have been its fourth double-digit percentage gain in the last five quarters.
Read MoreRead MoreWatch NowIndividual - Commentary & Outlook
March 20, 2024
We are excited to share with you this concise report on Bitcoin – which serves as a companion piece to our recent full-length podcast episode – where Adam Armstrong and Austin Hagaman discussed Bitcoin basics, its pricing, the upcoming halving-event, the recent host of ETFs and much more! Click to download the full report and gain access to our full analysis and be sure to listen to the full episode of our podcast, Amplified Wealth for a more comprehensive discussion on the digital currency and its future in the marketplace.
Read MoreRead MoreWatch NowIndividual - Commentary & Outlook
January 22, 2024
What a difference a year can make. US equities rose in 2023, with the major indices erasing their 2022 declines. The Dow achieved an all-time high, while the S&P closed the year a touch short of its record close from January of 2022. The positive year for the market appeared to be in jeopardy as stock pulled back throughout Q3 before bottoming in late October and rallying into year-end.
Read MoreRead MoreWatch NowIndividual - Commentary & Outlook
December 15, 2023
A soft landing - once thought to only be achieved by Mr. Clause himself as he arrives on rooftops around the world – has potentially been attained by The Fed after a two-year tightening cycle. On Wednesday, the Federal Reserve announced optimism about a soft landing, known as the long-awaited “Fed-Pivot” – projecting short-term rate cuts and a gradual return of inflation to its 2.0% goal without a recession. Despite maintaining current interest rates and tightening pace, the Fed revised its short-term interest rate projections significantly downward.
Read MoreRead MoreWatch NowIndividual - Commentary & Outlook
November 22, 2023
To help you plan for the upcoming season, we are excited to share with you our 2024 Key Tax Facts sheet. This two-page sheet provides a snapshot on all of the latest tax updates to help you begin your tax planning process.
Read MoreRead MoreWatch NowIndividual - Commentary & Outlook
October 18, 2023
Major US equity indices retreated in Q3, with the S&P 500 hitting a year-to-date high at the end of July but falling thereafter, closing the quarter -3.7% lower, with most of the decline taking place during September. Still, the benchmark sits at +12.1% year-to-date at quarter-end.
Read MoreRead MoreWatch NowIndividual - Commentary & Outlook
September 15, 2023
The Fed may have avoided recession for now, but more economic pain may be necessary to bring inflation down to its long-term target.
Read MoreRead MoreWatch NowIndividual - Commentary & Outlook
September 15, 2023
The first half of 2023 has concluded, and it is one for the record books. Despite seemingly countless reasons to be wary of the markets – regional banks collapsing, core inflation (excluding food and energy) stubbornly remaining above or near 5% and a debt-ceiling resolution being pushed to the 11th hour– the S&P 500 climbed over 16% on a total return basis to start the first half of the year.
Read MoreRead MoreWatch NowIndividual - In the News
September 15, 2023
As investment managers, it is part of our nature to think about the impact of evolving technology. How will innovative technologies affect our lives? Which companies will benefit? How can modern technologies enhance our capabilities as investment advisors to better serve our clients?
Read MoreRead MoreWatch NowIndividual - In the News
September 15, 2023
Pinnacle Associates congratulates Jim Ferrare, CFA, CPA on being included in this year’s Forbes Best in State Wealth Advisors rankings as recognition of his commitment to putting clients first, leading with exceptional ideas, and demonstrating integrity. It’s the sixth year in a row that Jim has been included on the list.
Read MoreRead MoreWatch NowFinancial Planning
November 13, 2024
At Pinnacle Associates, we understand that addressing health-related financial issues requires both sensitivity and a proactive approach. In this Fall edition of our Financial Planning newsletter, we explore key areas that will help you navigate the financial complexities as you approach retirement. Inside this guide, you’ll discover important insights on maximizing Social Security benefits, managing portfolio allocations, making the most of Roth conversions, and understanding Medicare. We also address the potential impacts of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act’s impending sunset and offer personalized strategies for safeguarding your investments as you move into this next chapter of life.
Read MoreRead MoreWatch NowFinancial Planning
September 24, 2024
In a perfect world, you would know the amount needed for all your young scholars’ educational needs, and you would have that exact figure in a 529 plan. That’s not always realistic, however, as sometimes plans change and it’s hard to predict the exact figure needed for educational expenses. Thanks to the Secure Act 2.0, some of the worries surrounding overfunding 529 plans have been diminished. Starting in 2024, under certain conditions, 529 account holders can transfer up to a lifetime limit of $35,000 to a Roth IRA for the 529 plan beneficiary. But, of course, there are some restrictions and rules surrounding this exciting update.
Read MoreRead MoreWatch NowFinancial Planning
November 8, 2023
At Pinnacle Associates, we firmly believe that effective long-term financial success hinges on proactive planning. With this in mind, we share some valuable year-end planning tips to ensure that you end this year and begin the next year feeling well informed and prepared for what’s ahead.
Read MoreRead MoreWatch NowFinancial Planning
September 15, 2023
For parents saving for their children’s college education, a Section 529 plan may offer several advantages. Section 529 plans are operated by individual states and let families set aside money to cover future education expenses on behalf of account beneficiaries.
Read MoreRead MoreWatch NowFinancial Planning
September 15, 2023
Financial planning is the process of evaluating and choosing an optimal strategy to achieve your financial goals. We work with you to create a personalized plan based on an integrated review of your unique circumstances. As your life changes, we make adjustments to your plan and portfolio, keeping you on the path to success.
Read MoreRead MoreWatch NowFinancial Planning
September 15, 2023
A Roth conversion is the transfer of funds from a Traditional (pre-tax) retirement account to a Roth (after-tax) retirement account. Taxes are paid on the funds converted in the year of conversion.
Read MoreRead MoreWatch NowFinancial Planning
September 15, 2023
401(k) plans are tax-preferred investment accounts managed by employers. Traditionally, 401(k)s are funded with pre-tax dollars and taxed at withdrawal. Some plans have Roth options in which the account is funded with after-tax dollars and no tax is paid at withdrawal.
Read MoreRead MoreWatch NowFinancial Planning
November 8, 2023
IRAs (individual retirement accounts) are tax-preferred investment accounts intended for retirement savings. Roth and Traditional IRAs both benefit from not paying taxes on gains when realized, but they differ in when they are taxed.
Read MoreRead MoreWatch NowFinancial Planning
September 15, 2023
One of the greatest ways we can add value to our clients is by removing the emotional aspect from investment decisions. Our team has successfully guided numerous entrepreneurs/families through some of the most significant monetary events in their lifetime. Helping clients prosper in a new phase of life is one of our strengths.
Read MoreRead MoreWatch NowFinancial Planning
September 15, 2023
The Secure Act 2.0 was signed into legislation on December 29, 2022 – with the goal of improving retirement savings options in the United States. And while the bill contains over 90 provisions designed to help Americans strengthen their financial security, we’ve identified the key provisions for individuals in this cheat sheet.
Read MoreRead MoreWatch NowFounded in 1984, Pinnacle Associates, Ltd. is a forward thinking, multi-billion dollar investment advisory firm focused on transparency and putting clients first. We provide advice to individuals and families, institutional investors and other financial institutions.
