The news that U.S. gross domestic product (GDP) shrank at an annual rate of 1.4% in the first quarter of 2022 has raised recession alarm bells. A recession is defined as a decline in GDP over two successive quarters. Although our portfolio managers concur that the probability of a recession has increased from six months ago, they still believe positive economic indicators are strong enough that the U.S. will avoid recession this year. Recession or not, investors should be prepared for the worst. Here’s what we recommend you do:    Review and fund your emergency bucket Most experts agree you

In March 2022, the Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U), the most common measure of inflation, rose at an annual rate of 8.5%, the highest level since December 1981.1 It’s not surprising that a Gallup poll at the end of March found that one out of six Americans considers inflation to be the most important problem facing the United States.2 When inflation began rising in the spring of 2021, many economists, including policymakers at the Federal Reserve, believed the increase would be transitory and subside over a period of months. One year later, inflation has proven to be more

After the wild ride of 2020, the U.S. stock market was relatively calm in 2021, but there was still plenty of volatility. There were 55 days when the S&P 500 index — generally considered representative of U.S. stocks — closed with a rise or fall of 1% or more from the previous day’s closing price. And there were seven days with a change of more than 2%.1 The good news for investors is that the trend was generally upward, and the S&P 500 ended the year up almost 27%.2 But no matter which way the market is moving, trying to choose

The IRS issued more than 128 million income tax refunds for the 2020 filing season, putting $355.3 billion into the hands of U.S. consumers.1 For most recipients, such a sudden influx of cash prompts an important question: What’s the best way to use the money if you get a refund? Last year, 27% of consumers said they planned to spend their refund on everyday expenses, whereas equal numbers (8%) planned to either “splurge” or take a vacation.2 But what about your other options? Debt Decisions Though spending your tax refund is tempting, most people surveyed said they planned to save their tax