Posts by Petersen Hastings Team
The Path Forward: Firm Operational Update
We would like to extend our appreciation to you during this unusual time. It is truly amazing how resilient we can all become when faced with a common challenge. We have made a number of changes, as our team has modified their workflow to adjust to remote working conditions while continuing to service you. We…
Read MoreCelebrate 529 College Savings Plan Day
Did you know May 29 (5/29) is recognized as National 529 College Savings Plan Day? Well, now you do! There are many ways to save and invest for education, with some accounts offering more tax advantages than others. To better understand the differences between each education savings plan and see what might be the best fit…
Read More5 Tips for Investors Navigating COVID-19 Uncertainty
One of the most unsettling aspects of market downturns is the fact they are out of your control. Markets move based on numerous variables that no one person can meaningfully control or even fully monitor. And when stock prices falter, the resulting steady drumbeat of negative news reports can drive many people to see the markets…
Read MoreCoping with Market Volatility: Be Sure to Use Appropriate Benchmarks
Do you find yourself glued to the daily news reports on market movements wondering about your own savings and investments? Before you make any hasty decisions, be sure you understand how these reports relate — or don’t relate — to your individual portfolio. The variance in the returns of different portfolios is largely attributable…
Read MoreThree Ways to Make the Most of Your Recovery Rebate
The rebates coming from the $2 trillion Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act are a welcomed relief for millions of Americans out of work and in financial distress due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Read MoreMarket Commentary: First Quarter
Stay Home, Stay Healthy! Global markets came under significant pressure as COVID-19 spread across the globe. U.S. Large companies represented by the S&P 500 Index slid -19.6%. Small companies represented by the Russell 2000 declined -30.6% and international stocks represented by the iShares MSCI EAFE Index decreased -22.8%. The Federal Reserve cut the Federal Funds…
Read MoreCARES Act: Benefits for Individuals & Families
On March 27, 2020, the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act was signed into law. The nearly 900 pages of legislation is full of programs designed to help taxpayers navigate the economic hardships our country is facing. We’ve highlighted a few areas that are likely to impact you on a personal level. Required Minimum…
Read MoreThe Cost of Trying to Time the Market
The impact of missing just a few of the market’s best days can be profound, as this look at a hypothetical investment in the stocks that make up the S&P 500 Index shows. Staying invested and focused on the long term helps to ensure that you’re in the position to capture what the market has…
Read MoreUnderstanding Market Downturns
For prepared investors, market downturns can represent great opportunity. Nearly everywhere you turn, from friends and colleagues to cable news shows, you can find someone with a strong opinion about the financial markets. People will often use specific terms such as correction or bear market to render judgments about the direction of markets, especially when…
Read MoreBusiness Continuity Update
Last night, the Governor of Washington State issued a “Stay Home, Stay Healthy” order, requiring all Washingtonians to remain in their homes for the next two weeks, and exercise social distancing of at least six feet for those times that they need essential items. There are some exclusions to this order defined as “essential businesses”…
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