Matthews Financial Services

01/02/2025

The Federal Reserve cut rates by 0.25%, bringing the target range to 4.25-4.5%. While markets anticipated this move, what's particularly interesting is the Fed's signal of fewer rate cuts ahead than previously expected.

A few key takeaways from Chair Powell's announcement:

- The Fed has now reduced rates by a full percentage point from peak levels
- Economic growth projections for the year were actually raised to 2.5%
- Only two more cuts are expected in 2025, half of what was projected in September

As we look ahead to 2025, the Fed's cautious approach to future rate reductions suggests a continued focus on balanced economic growth and price stability. 💫

The Federal Reserve on Wednesday announced its decision on interest rates.

01/02/2025

Many people are worried about Social Security lasting until they retire. Watch this video to learn more about why that's more hype than truth.

Every so often, you'll hear about Social Security benefits running out. But is there truth to the fears, or is it all hype?

12/31/2024

What's the real rate of return on your portfolio? Learn about how inflation plays a factor in your investments. Read more now.

Learn about the role of inflation when considering your portfolio’s rate of return with this helpful article.

12/26/2024

Does the 4% rule still work? The answer lies in your goals, time horizon and risk tolerance.

A portfolio created with your long-term objectives in mind is crucial as you pursue your dream retirement.

12/24/2024

Cyber attacks are a growing online threat, but the good news is that you can insure your business!

90% of small businesses in the U.S. don't protect their data from cyber attacks. Is your business at risk?

12/19/2024

Want to know what's really driving prices in 2024? Here's what today's inflation report reveals: 🌟

While overall consumer prices saw their biggest monthly jump since April, there are some surprising shifts beneath the surface. Hotel stays and food costs are key drivers right now, with egg prices surging 8.2% due to avian flu concerns.

But it's not all price increases - cereal and bakery products just recorded their largest price drop in over 30 years.

The housing market brings encouraging signs: rental costs are rising at the slowest rate since summer 2021. These varying trends show how economic forces affect different parts of our daily lives in unique ways.

Understanding these patterns helps make more informed financial decisions. 💡


Source:

U.S. consumer prices increased in November by the most in seven months, but the Federal Reserve was still expected to deliver a third consecutive interest rate cut next week to support a labor market that has been cooling.

12/19/2024

Is your Medicare card missing or looking a little worse for wear? No problem! This article will help you replace your lost, stolen, or damaged card. Read more here:

Learn how to replace your lost, stolen, or damaged Medicare card in this helpful article.

12/18/2024

Want to know what's really driving prices in 2024? Here's what today's inflation report reveals: 🌟

While overall consumer prices saw their biggest monthly jump since April, there are some surprising shifts beneath the surface. Hotel stays and food costs are key drivers right now, with egg prices surging 8.2% due to avian flu concerns.

But it's not all price increases - cereal and bakery products just recorded their largest price drop in over 30 years.

The housing market brings encouraging signs: rental costs are rising at the slowest rate since summer 2021. These varying trends show how economic forces affect different parts of our daily lives in unique ways.

Understanding these patterns helps make more informed financial decisions. 💡

U.S. consumer prices increased in November by the most in seven months, but the Federal Reserve was still expected to deliver a third consecutive interest rate cut next week to support a labor market that has been cooling.

12/17/2024

December tends to be a cheerful month for stock prices, which has some investors keeping an eye out for a late-year visit from Santa. The Santa Claus rally has occurred 58 times (80 percent) between 1950 and 2022, with an average gain of 1.4 percent in the Standard & Poor’s 500. While investment decisions should not be based on seasonal factors, the Santa Claus rally is fun to revisit at this time of year.

12/17/2024

Learn how to maximize your Qualified Charitable Distributions!

Use this handy, informative article to help your clients understand Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs).

12/16/2024

Understanding today's inflation report: While consumer prices rose 2.7% from last year, we're seeing interesting shifts across the economy.

Housing costs, which have been a major driver of inflation, posted their smallest increase since 2021. Food prices are showing mixed signals—overall costs rose 0.4%, but cereals and bakery products saw their biggest monthly drop since 1989.

What does this mean for consumers? While inflation remains above the Fed's 2% target, certain everyday expenses are starting to stabilize. Your purchasing power is gradually strengthening in specific areas. 💼

The consumer price index was expected to rise 0.3% in November and 2.7% from a year ago.

12/12/2024

Do you know the ins and outs of charitable giving? It's more complicated than you may think. Learn more now.

This article may help you maximize the benefits of your donation for your chosen charity.

12/11/2024

🏠 Good news for the housing market! Mortgage rates have dropped to 6.69% - the lowest level in over a month. The data shows that homebuyers responded positively, with purchase applications jumping 6% last week.

What does this mean for those considering a home purchase? There's more inventory available now than earlier in the year, giving buyers more options to choose from. While rates are still higher than historical lows, this dip could present an opportunity for those who've been waiting on the sidelines.

Interested in learning more about today's market conditions? Let's talk.

Potential homebuyers are responding to lower mortgage rates and a higher supply of homes for sale.

12/10/2024

There are some jobs that I just don’t want. The home plate umpire in the 9th inning of a major league baseball game. Fishing in the Bering Sea during an ice storm. Or a Fed Governor having to decide what to do with short-term interest rates heading in 2025.

12/10/2024

What would you do if your beloved dog caused some damage where a mere apology wasn’t enough?

Reviewing coverage options is just one thing responsible pet parents can do to help look out for their dogs.

12/09/2024

💪 New Health Research: Small Steps, Big Impact!



Just revealed in the British Journal of Sports Medicine: Short bursts of daily activity can significantly benefit heart health, especially for women.



The findings are remarkable. Even simple activities like climbing stairs or carrying groceries make a difference. For women getting just 3.5 minutes of vigorous movement daily:
- 45% lower risk of major heart problems
- 50% lower risk of heart attack
- 70% lower risk of heart failure



The key? Consistency matters more than duration. These brief moments of movement throughout the day add up to meaningful health benefits.



Ready to take the stairs instead of the elevator today?

In people who declared themselves “nonexercisers,” several short bursts of activity throughout the day were linked to heart-healthy benefits.

12/06/2024

Stocks notched solid gains in November as post-election enthusiasm and holiday-shopping fueled the advance.

Monthly Market Insights | December 2024 U.S. Markets Stocks notched solid gains in November as post-election enthusiasm and holiday shopping combined to fuel the advance. The Dow Jones Industrial Average led, gaining 7.54 percent. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index picked up 5.73 percent, while the N...

12/05/2024

Compare your taxable investment to a tax-deferred one. The results may surprise you.

This calculator compares the net gain of a taxable investment versus a tax-favored one.