Hello all! First and foremost, I want to thank you for your understanding during my time away – my family vacation in Thailand was an incredible opportunity to unwind, recharge, and create lasting memories. Now, I am back, reenergized, and eager to continue supporting you in reaching your unique financial goals.
In this month's newsletter, we take a look at current economic indicators as we head into Q2, as well as insurance considerations featured in our latest blog post.
As always, thank you for your partnership and entrusting me with your financial well-being.
Yours truly,
Economic Snapshot
Closing out Q1, we’ve compiled some of the latest economic indicators shaping our understanding of the current financial landscape and how market conditions are influencing investment strategies:
U.S. job growth exceeded expectations in March 2024, with nonfarm payrolls increasing by 303,000 jobs. (Source: Reuters)
The unemployment rate fell to 3.8% last month, continuing a streak of below 4% unemployment for 27 consecutive months. (Source: Reuters)
Industries like healthcare, government, construction, and leisure and hospitality led the broad increase in employment. (Source: Reuters)
Average hourly earnings rose 0.3% in March, with wages increasing by 4.1% on a year-on-year basis. (Source: Reuters)
The labor force participation rate rose to a four-month high of 62.7%, which could indicate improving labor market dynamics. Although we have not returned to pre-pandemic levels, many economists believe that we are at a new normal given shifting demographics (aging population). (Source: Reuters)
Inflation, measured by the Consumer Price Index (CPI), stood at 3.2% for the 12 months ending in February, influencing Federal Reserve policy decisions. (Source: U.S. Bank)
Analysts suggest that while the labor market remains robust, ongoing strength may complicate the Fed's rate-cutting plans amidst concerns about inflation persistence. (Source: U.S. Bank)
We are monitoring the recent economic implications of the conflict between Israel and Iran, as an escalation could impact oil prices and create additional uncertainty. (Source: Reuters)
Safeguarding Your Financial Future: Insights into Insurance Essentials
Have you considered the crucial role that insurance plays in securing your financial well-being? From life and disability coverage to long-term care and property protection, we’ve compiled some key insights in our recent blog post to help you make informed decisions for your future. Read more here.
Retirement Planning Across the Decades
Discover age-specific strategies for savings, investments, and life milestones – ensuring you’re well-prepared for the future.
Financial Advice is offered through Certus Wealth Management LLC, a Registered Investment Adviser.
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This material prepared by Certus Wealth Management, LLC (“Certus Wealth”) is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to serve as a substitute for personalized investment advice or as a recommendation or solicitation of any particular security, strategy or investment product. Opinions expressed by Certus Wealth are based on economic or market conditions at the time this material was written. Economies and markets fluctuate. Actual economic or market events may turn out differently than anticipated. Facts presented have been obtained from sources believed to be reliable. Certus Wealth, however, cannot guarantee the accuracy or completeness of such information, and certain information presented here may have been condensed or summarized from its original source. Certus Wealth does not provide tax or legal advice, and nothing contained in these materials should be taken as tax or legal advice.
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