Weekly Market Insight – November 14, 2022

Weekly Market Insight – November 14, 2022

Weekly Market Insights: Cooling Inflation Brings Market Gains

Presented by Elsass Financial Group

A cooling inflation number ignited a powerful rally on Thursday, sending stocks to strong gains for the week.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 4.15%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 added 5.90%. The Nasdaq Composite index rose 8.10% for the week. The MSCI EAFE index, which tracks developed overseas stock markets, picked up 5.72%.1,2,3

Stocks Surge

A lower-than-expected inflation report triggered the biggest one-day stock market gain in more than two years as the news raised investors’ hopes that the Fed might consider easing the pace of future rate hikes. The day’s gains were pronounced in the hard-hit technology sector, as the tech-heavy Nasdaq added 7.35%.4 

Stocks initially rallied to start the week, but gave up some of the gains on Wednesday following a muddy and indecisive outcome to the midterms. Friday saw stocks build on their gains to close out an exceptional week.

Inflation Moderates

Consumer prices rose slower in October, increasing 0.4% for the month and 7.7% from 12 months ago. Both numbers were below market expectations of 0.6% and 7.9%. The core CPI (excludes energy and food sectors) rose a more modest 0.3% on a monthly basis and 6.3% from a year ago.5

The deceleration in prices was mainly attributable to price declines in used cars (-2.4%), apparel (-0.7%), and medical care services (-0.6%). Despite the progress, inflation remains well above the Fed’s 2% target rate. A look behind the numbers shows that October’s 7.7% CPI was fueled by the largest monthly jump in shelter costs since 1990 (+0.8%). Shelter costs account for one-third of the CPI. Energy was up 1.8%, while food costs rose 0.6% for the month.6

This Week: Key Economic Data

Tuesday: Producer Price Index (PPI).

Wednesday: Retail Sales. Industrial Production.

Thursday: Housing Starts. Jobless Claims.

Friday: Existing Home Sales. Index of Leading Economic Indicators.

Source: Econoday, November 11, 2022
The Econoday economic calendar lists upcoming U.S. economic data releases (including key economic indicators), Federal Reserve policy meetings, and speaking engagements of Federal Reserve officials. The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The forecasts or forward-looking statements are based on assumptions and may not materialize. The forecasts also are subject to revision.

This Week: Companies Reporting Earnings

Monday: Tyson Foods, Inc. (TSN).

Tuesday: Walmart, Inc. (WMT), The Home Depot, Inc. (HD).

Wednesday: Nvidia Corporation (NVDA), Cisco Systems, Inc. (CSCO), Target Corporation (TGT), Lowe’s Companies, Inc. (LOW), The TJX Companies, Inc. (TJX).

Thursday: Applied Materials, Inc.(AMAT), Palo Alto Networks, Inc. (PANW), Ross Stores, Inc. (ROST).

Source: Zacks, November 11, 2022
Companies mentioned are for informational purposes only. It should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of the securities. Investing involves risks, and investment decisions should be based on your own goals, time horizon, and tolerance for risk. The return and principal value of investments will fluctuate as market conditions change. When sold, investments may be worth more or less than their original cost. Companies may reschedule when they report earnings without notice.

“To expect truth to come from thinking signifies that we mistake the need to think with the urge to know.”

– Hannah Arendt

Meet The Taxpayer Advocate Service

Did you know that an independent organization within the IRS is fighting for your rights as a taxpayer? The Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS) protects taxpayers’ rights by ensuring that all taxpayers are treated fairly and know and understand their rights under the Taxpayer Bill of Rights. Here are some things to know about TAS:

  • TAS can help taxpayers resolve problems they haven’t been able to settle with the IRS on their own. 
  • The service is free. 
  • TAS helps all taxpayers and their representatives, including individuals, businesses, and exempt organizations. 
  • If taxpayers qualify for TAS help, an advocate will be with them at every turn and do everything possible to assist throughout the process. 
  • TAS also handles large-scale problems that affect many taxpayers.


* This information is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax advice. We suggest that you discuss your specific tax issues with a qualified tax professional.

Tip adapted from IRS.gov7

What Is Compostable?

Composting is a great way to go green and keep more waste out of landfills that don’t need to be there. Composting has many benefits, including waste management and reduction, soil enhancement, reduction of greenhouse gasses, and many more.

Plus, composting doesn’t have to be hard! Let’s break down what is compostable to help you understand where to start. There are two types of compostable waste, green and brown:

  • Green materials are nitrogen-rich materials like live plant material (ex: grass clippings) and fruit/veggie waste.
  • Brown materials are carbon-rich materials like dead plant matter, bread, cardboard, or wood.


As you can see, it’s easy to get started with composting. You don’t need a complicated setup or special process to get started. These two compost categories provide the foundation of everything you need to know.

Tip adapted from Sustainable Jungle8

I’m usually standing on a city sidewalk, and I’ll always stand by your car. But if you don’t feed me, you may get into trouble. What am I?

Last week’s riddle: Create a 13-letter word using all 13 of the following letters: O A I I S T T R R D N A M. Answer: ADMINISTRATOR.

Preening flamingo, Galapagos Islands, Ecuador.

 

Footnotes And Sources


1. The Wall Street Journal, November 11, 2022

2. The Wall Street Journal, November 11, 2022

3. The Wall Street Journal, November 11, 2022

4. CNBC, November 10, 2022

5. CNBC, November 10, 2022

6. CNBC, November 10, 2022

7. IRS.gov, July 19, 2022

8. Sustainable Jungle, August 8, 2022

Investing involves risks, and investment decisions should be based on your own goals, time horizon, and tolerance for risk. The return and principal value of investments will fluctuate as market conditions change. When sold, investments may be worth more or less than their original cost.

The forecasts or forward-looking statements are based on assumptions, may not materialize, and are subject to revision without notice.

The market indexes discussed are unmanaged, and generally, considered representative of their respective markets. Index performance is not indicative of the past performance of a particular investment. Indexes do not incur management fees, costs, and expenses. Individuals cannot directly invest in unmanaged indexes. Past performance does not guarantee future results.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average is an unmanaged index that is generally considered representative of large-capitalization companies on the U.S. stock market. Nasdaq Composite is an index of the common stocks and similar securities listed on the NASDAQ stock market and is considered a broad indicator of the performance of technology and growth companies. The MSCI EAFE Index was created by Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) and serves as a benchmark of the performance of major international equity markets, as represented by 21 major MSCI indexes from Europe, Australia, and Southeast Asia. The S&P 500 Composite Index is an unmanaged group of securities that are considered to be representative of the stock market in general.

U.S. Treasury Notes are guaranteed by the federal government as to the timely payment of principal and interest. However, if you sell a Treasury Note prior to maturity, it may be worth more or less than the original price paid. Fixed income investments are subject to various risks including changes in interest rates, credit quality, inflation risk, market valuations, prepayments, corporate events, tax ramifications and other factors.

International investments carry additional risks, which include differences in financial reporting standards, currency exchange rates, political risks unique to a specific country, foreign taxes and regulations, and the potential for illiquid markets. These factors may result in greater share price volatility.

Please consult your financial professional for additional information.

This content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. This material was developed and produced by FMG Suite to provide information on a topic that may be of interest. FMG is not affiliated with the named representative, financial professional, Registered Investment Advisor, Broker-Dealer, nor state- or SEC-registered investment advisory firm. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and they should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security.

Copyright 2022 FMG Suite.

Copyright © 2025
Elsass Financial Group

The Biggest COLA Increase Since 1981

The Biggest COLA Increase Since 1981

How well do you remember 1981? Harrison Ford had his first bow as Indiana Jones in Raiders of the Lost Ark. Frogger and Donkey Kong were all the rage at video arcades. Bob Ross left the Air Force and took up painting. On top of that, we had the largest Social Security cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) on record: 11.2%.

This year’s COLA increase won’t reach that high, but the Senior Citizens League anticipated it to be as much as 8.7%. As it turns out, they were right on the nose. This tops last year’s 5.9% increase.1

What this increase means for those collecting Social Security benefits is additional help battling inflation. The average Social Security retiree benefit will increase $146 per month, to $1,827 in 2023, from $1,681 in 2022.1

Why is it happening now? Congress has COLA increases pegged to rising inflation. While there’s been a great deal of talk about inflation this year, the increase depends on the much-anticipated official numbers: the third quarter’s Consumer Price Index (CPI) is measured against the CPI of the previous year, and the COLA is calculated from that.

While this increase has been widely anticipated, you may still have questions about this and other economic factors. I’m happy to discuss how this might affect your financial strategy.

  1. CNBC.com, October 13, 2022
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Elsass Financial Group

Weekly Market Insight – November 14, 2022

Weekly Market Insight – November 7, 2022

Weekly Market Insights: Stocks Slip After Powell Comments

Presented by Elsass Financial Group

Hawkish comments by Fed Chair Jerome Powell, following the announcement of another 75 basis points interest rate hike last week, cast a pall over financial markets, sending yields higher and stocks lower.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average slipped 1.40%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 declined 3.35%. The Nasdaq Composite index lost 5.65% for the week. The MSCI EAFE index, which tracks developed overseas stock markets, fell 1.04%.1,2,3

Powell Disappoints

The official statement released following the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) meeting appeared to suggest a potential for future easing of interest rates. Investors cheered the news, sending stocks higher. But the optimism was crushed 30 minutes later on hawkish comments by Fed Chair Powell during his post-meeting press conference. 

Losses accelerated into Thursday, led by technology names, which were under pressure due to rising bond yields. The yield on the two-year Treasury note rose to its highest level since 2007. The sentiment took damage from workforce reduction/freeze news from multiple technology companies; some considered it a sign of a pending recession. Stocks managed to erase some of the week’s losses on Friday following a strong employment report and a drop in the U.S. dollar.4

From Dove To Hawk In 30 Minutes

In the statement accompanying the 75 basis point rate increase, the FOMC said that future increases would consider the cumulative monetary tightening to date and the lag in impact such tightening involves.5

But in his post-meeting press conference, Fed Chair Powell struck a more hawkish tone. He said that current inflation data did not support any slowdown in rate increases and that the terminal rate (the point at which rates will no longer rise) may be higher than initially expected.6

This Week: Key Economic Data

Thursday: Consumer Price Index (CPI). Jobless Claims.

Friday: Consumer Sentiment.

Source: Econoday, November 4, 2022
The Econoday economic calendar lists upcoming U.S. economic data releases (including key economic indicators), Federal Reserve policy meetings, and speaking engagements of Federal Reserve officials. The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The forecasts or forward-looking statements are based on assumptions and may not materialize. The forecasts also are subject to revision.

This Week: Companies Reporting Earnings

Tuesday: The Walt Disney Company (DIS).

Wednesday: Roblox Corporation (RBLX), Occidental Petroleum Corporation (OXY).

Thursday: Becton, Dickinson and Company (BDX).

Source: Zacks, November 4, 2022
Companies mentioned are for informational purposes only. It should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of the securities. Investing involves risks, and investment decisions should be based on your own goals, time horizon, and tolerance for risk. The return and principal value of investments will fluctuate as market conditions change. When sold, investments may be worth more or less than their original cost. Companies may reschedule when they report earnings without notice.

“If you would be loved, love and be lovable.”

– Benjamin Franklin

Learn About ABLE Accounts

People with disabilities can use an Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) account to help pay qualified disability-related expenses. Here are some things to know about ABLE accounts:

  • This tax-advantaged savings account doesn’t affect their eligibility for government assistance programs. 
  • The 2022 annual contribution limit is $16,000. 
  • ABLE account-designated beneficiaries may be eligible to claim the saver’s credit for a percentage of their contributions. 
  • Eligible beneficiaries must be 18 years old at the close of the taxable year, are not dependent or full-time students, and meet the income requirements. 
  • Families may roll over funds from a 529 plan to another family member’s ABLE account. 
  • Disability-related expenses include housing, education, transportation, health, prevention and wellness, employment training and support, assistive technology, and personal support services.

* This information is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax advice. We suggest that you discuss your specific tax issues with a qualified tax professional.

Tip adapted from IRS.gov7

Stay Hydrated With Infused Water

Staying hydrated is essential for our overall health, and these fun, delicious infused water options make drinking water a little more fun. Bonus points if you try them with sparkling water for a bit of fizz!

  • Honeydew, cucumber, and mint
  • Watermelon, kiwi, and lime
  • Mango, raspberries, and ginger root
  • Blackberries, orange, and ginger root
  • Grapefruit, pomegranate, and mint
  • Pineapple, coconut, and lime
  • Blueberries, lemon, and rosemary
  • Strawberries, lemon, and basil

To infuse your water with these delicious combinations, just put all the ingredients in a pitcher, add water, and remove the fruits, veggies, or herbs in 24 hours. Drinking water has never been tastier or more beautiful.

Tip adapted from Culinary Hill8

Create a 13-letter word using all 13 of the following letters: O A I I S T T R R D N A M.

Last week’s riddle: What is worn by the foot and often bought by the yard? Answer: Carpet.

Iguazu Falls, Argentinian National Park, Argentina.
 

Footnotes And Sources


1. The Wall Street Journal, November 4, 2022

2. The Wall Street Journal, November 4, 2022

3. The Wall Street Journal, November 4, 2022

4. The Wall Street Journal, November 3, 2022

5. The Wall Street Journal, November 2, 2022

6. The Wall Street Journal, November 2, 2022

7. IRS.gov, July 20, 2022

8. Culinary Hill, May 19, 2022

Investing involves risks, and investment decisions should be based on your own goals, time horizon, and tolerance for risk. The return and principal value of investments will fluctuate as market conditions change. When sold, investments may be worth more or less than their original cost.

The forecasts or forward-looking statements are based on assumptions, may not materialize, and are subject to revision without notice.

The market indexes discussed are unmanaged, and generally, considered representative of their respective markets. Index performance is not indicative of the past performance of a particular investment. Indexes do not incur management fees, costs, and expenses. Individuals cannot directly invest in unmanaged indexes. Past performance does not guarantee future results.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average is an unmanaged index that is generally considered representative of large-capitalization companies on the U.S. stock market. Nasdaq Composite is an index of the common stocks and similar securities listed on the NASDAQ stock market and is considered a broad indicator of the performance of technology and growth companies. The MSCI EAFE Index was created by Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) and serves as a benchmark of the performance of major international equity markets, as represented by 21 major MSCI indexes from Europe, Australia, and Southeast Asia. The S&P 500 Composite Index is an unmanaged group of securities that are considered to be representative of the stock market in general.

U.S. Treasury Notes are guaranteed by the federal government as to the timely payment of principal and interest. However, if you sell a Treasury Note prior to maturity, it may be worth more or less than the original price paid. Fixed income investments are subject to various risks including changes in interest rates, credit quality, inflation risk, market valuations, prepayments, corporate events, tax ramifications and other factors.

International investments carry additional risks, which include differences in financial reporting standards, currency exchange rates, political risks unique to a specific country, foreign taxes and regulations, and the potential for illiquid markets. These factors may result in greater share price volatility.

Please consult your financial professional for additional information.

This content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. This material was developed and produced by FMG Suite to provide information on a topic that may be of interest. FMG is not affiliated with the named representative, financial professional, Registered Investment Advisor, Broker-Dealer, nor state- or SEC-registered investment advisory firm. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and they should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security.

Copyright 2022 FMG Suite.

Copyright © 2025
Elsass Financial Group

The Biggest COLA Increase Since 1981

Using I bonds for education savings

I bonds provide a flexible, tax-advantaged method for saving for children’s education.

Learn more

Copyright © 2025
Elsass Financial Group

Weekly Market Insight – November 14, 2022

Weekly Market Insight – October 31, 2022

Presented by Elsass Financial Group

Stocks overcame poor earnings results from some of America’s largest companies to post gains last week as investors cheered positive earnings surprises, easing inflation and a rebound in economic growth.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 5.72%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 advanced 3.95%. The Nasdaq Composite index added 2.24% for the week. The MSCI EAFE index, which tracks developed overseas stock markets, gained 4.89%.1,2,3

A “Spook-Tacular” Week

Some mega-cap technology companies were under pressure last week on weak earnings and tepid fourth-quarter guidance. They reported multiple headwinds, including declining advertising revenues, loose expense control, and a slowdown in cloud growth. 

Meanwhile, positive earnings surprises from “old economy” companies powered markets higher. This market bifurcation was evident in the divergence in the performance of the Dow Industrials and the Nasdaq. The S&P 500 posted a substantial gain despite its disproportionate weighting of mega-cap stocks, which helped illustrate the power of the rally. Momentum accelerated into Friday, aided by an easing in inflation and a solid third-quarter Gross Domestic Product (GDP) report.

Economic Growth Exceeds Expectations

After two straight quarters of negative economic growth, the initial estimate of the third quarter’s GDP came in at a solid 2.6%, exceeding economists’ 2.3% estimate. The surprising economic performance was largely attributable to an increase in exports, which narrowed the trade deficit, a development that may not repeat going forward.4

Particularly encouraging was the personal consumption expenditure price index, a report used by the Fed to track inflation. It increased 4.2%, well below the 7.3% jump from a quarter ago.5

This Week: Key Economic Data

Tuesday: Institute for Supply Management (ISM) Manufacturing Index. Job Openings and Labor Turnover Survey (JOLTS).

Wednesday: Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) Announcement. Automated Data Processing (ADP) Employment Report. 

Thursday: Jobless Claims. Factory Orders. Institute for Supply Management (ISM) Services Index.

Friday: Employment Situation.

Source: Econoday, October 28, 2022
The Econoday economic calendar lists upcoming U.S. economic data releases (including key economic indicators), Federal Reserve policy meetings, and speaking engagements of Federal Reserve officials. The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The forecasts or forward-looking statements are based on assumptions and may not materialize. The forecasts also are subject to revision.

This Week: Companies Reporting Earnings

Tuesday: Pfizer, Inc. (PFE), Eli Lilly & Company (LLY), Marathon Petroleum Corporation (MPC).

Wednesday: CVS Health Corporation (CVS), Qualcomm, Inc. (QCOM), Fortinet, Inc. (FTNT), Humana, Inc. (HUM), Cigna Corporation (CI), Booking Holdings, Inc. (BKNG), Prudential Financial, Inc. (PRU).

Thursday: Block, Inc. (SQ), PayPal Holdings, Inc. (PYPL), Amgen, Inc. (AMGN), ConocoPhillips (COP), Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (REGN).

Friday: Dominion Energy, Inc. (D), EOG Resources, Inc. (EOG).

Source: Zacks, October 28, 2022
Companies mentioned are for informational purposes only. It should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of the securities. Investing involves risks, and investment decisions should be based on your own goals, time horizon, and tolerance for risk. The return and principal value of investments will fluctuate as market conditions change. When sold, investments may be worth more or less than their original cost. Companies may reschedule when they report earnings without notice.

“We should all do something to right the wrongs that we see and not just complain about them.”

– Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis 

Using The IRS2Go App

Did you know that the IRS has an app that makes it easy to check some things off your tax to-do list? Using the app, you can:

  • Check your refund status. Your refund status is available within 24 hours after the IRS receives your e-filed return (or four weeks after receiving a paper return).
  • Access IRS Free File. Free File is a tax prep software for taxpayers whose 2021 total adjusted gross income was $73,000 or less.
  • Find payment options, including IRS Direct Pay which allows you to pay tax bills directly from your bank account.
  • Get tax help.
  • Stay up to date with updates from the IRS.

* This information is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax advice. We suggest that you discuss your specific tax issues with a qualified tax professional.

Tip adapted from IRS.gov6

Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth With Dates

Do you have a sweet tooth but want to limit the amount of refined sugar you eat? Dates are just the answer! These nutrient-rich powerhouses are sweet, succulent, and good for you!

Dates are high in fiber, potassium, magnesium, and Vitamin B6, among many other nutrients. In addition, dates are high in antioxidants and may promote brain health, bone health, and blood sugar control.

Dates are easy to add to your diet. Snack on them, add them to dishes as a natural sweetener or blend them in a smoothie. These nutritious and delicious treats are perfect for kicking cookies and cakes without giving up an indulgent taste.

Tip adapted Healthline, November 27, 20197

What is worn by the foot and often bought by the yard?

Last week’s riddle: They can run side by side for thousands of miles; they are made of steel. While they constantly touch the ground, they seldom meet or touch each other. What are they? Answer: Railroad tracks.

Cathedral Rock at twilight, Sedona, Arzona

 

Footnotes And Sources


1. The Wall Street Journal, October 28, 2022

2. The Wall Street Journal, October 28, 2022

3. The Wall Street Journal, October 28, 2022

4. CNBC, October 27, 2022

5. CNBC, October 27, 2022

6. IRS.gov, July 25, 2022

7. Healthline, November 27, 2019

Investing involves risks, and investment decisions should be based on your own goals, time horizon, and tolerance for risk. The return and principal value of investments will fluctuate as market conditions change. When sold, investments may be worth more or less than their original cost.

The forecasts or forward-looking statements are based on assumptions, may not materialize, and are subject to revision without notice.

The market indexes discussed are unmanaged, and generally, considered representative of their respective markets. Index performance is not indicative of the past performance of a particular investment. Indexes do not incur management fees, costs, and expenses. Individuals cannot directly invest in unmanaged indexes. Past performance does not guarantee future results.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average is an unmanaged index that is generally considered representative of large-capitalization companies on the U.S. stock market. Nasdaq Composite is an index of the common stocks and similar securities listed on the NASDAQ stock market and is considered a broad indicator of the performance of technology and growth companies. The MSCI EAFE Index was created by Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) and serves as a benchmark of the performance of major international equity markets, as represented by 21 major MSCI indexes from Europe, Australia, and Southeast Asia. The S&P 500 Composite Index is an unmanaged group of securities that are considered to be representative of the stock market in general.

U.S. Treasury Notes are guaranteed by the federal government as to the timely payment of principal and interest. However, if you sell a Treasury Note prior to maturity, it may be worth more or less than the original price paid. Fixed income investments are subject to various risks including changes in interest rates, credit quality, inflation risk, market valuations, prepayments, corporate events, tax ramifications and other factors.

International investments carry additional risks, which include differences in financial reporting standards, currency exchange rates, political risks unique to a specific country, foreign taxes and regulations, and the potential for illiquid markets. These factors may result in greater share price volatility.

Please consult your financial professional for additional information.

This content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. This material was developed and produced by FMG Suite to provide information on a topic that may be of interest. FMG is not affiliated with the named representative, financial professional, Registered Investment Advisor, Broker-Dealer, nor state- or SEC-registered investment advisory firm. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and they should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security.

Copyright 2022 FMG Suite.

Copyright © 2025
Elsass Financial Group

Healthy Anti-Inflammatory Snacks

Healthy Anti-Inflammatory Snacks

Feeling snacky? Grab one of these healthy, and anti-inflammatory, choices. Fortune has the tasty recipes:  Learn more

Copyright © 2025
Elsass Financial Group