Casual Friday: Financial Insights

In this episode of Casual Friday: Financial Insights, Brian and Ryan delve into the recent pullback in the markets, which have dipped at the onset of the second quarter. After kicking off the year with strong gains, the landscape has shifted due to a combination of geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, rising inflation concerns, and uncertainties around corporate earnings.Join us as we discuss strategies for understanding and managing through this period of heightened market volatility. What steps can investors take to maintain perspective and make informed decisions? Tune in to gain valuable insights into navigating these challenging market conditions.

This week Ryan and Brian come up for air from a busy tax season to examine how current tax brackets, both personal and corporate, compare to where brackets have been historically. They also touch on the possibility of brackets changing in the future, especially in light of the Federal debt to GDP ratio (spoiler: it's high).Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@fordfinancialgroupSubscribe on Apple Podcasts (or wherever you listen to podcasts): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...Questions? Email us at info@FordFG.comWeb: FordFG.comThe opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results.There is no assurance that the views or strategies discussed are suitable for all investors. To determine which investment(s) may be appropriate for you, consult your financial professional prior to investing. Investing involves risks including possible loss of principal. No investment strategy or risk management technique can guarantee return or eliminate risk. Indexes are unmanaged statistical composites and cannot be invested into directly. Index performance is not indicative of the performance of any investment and do not reflect fees, expenses, or sales charges. The economic forecasts set forth in this material may not develop as predicted.The advisors of Ford Financial Group are Registered Representatives with and securities are offered through LPL Financial member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advice offered through Perennial Investment Advisors, a registered investment advisor. Ford Financial Group and Perennial Investment Advisors are separate entities from LPL Financial. Ford Financial Group, Perennial Investment Advisors, and LPL Financial do not provide tax advice or services.

As we delve into the intensifying presidential election season, every day brings us closer to November 5, Election Day. We're witnessing what appears to be an impending rematch between Joe Biden and Donald Trump. Given the months ahead until November, it's understandable for investors to feel uneasy about the potential effects of political events on the stock market and the broader economy. The current political atmosphere is notably charged, influenced not only by the upcoming elections but also by contentious debates in Washington over issues like the budget, immigration, and foreign policy. This week, Brian and Ryan, we explore how investors can maintain equilibrium amidst the turbulence of this year's presidential election.Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@fordfinancialgroupSubscribe on Apple Podcasts (or wherever you listen to podcasts): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...Questions? Email us at info@FordFG.comWeb: FordFG.comThe opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results.There is no assurance that the views or strategies discussed are suitable for all investors. To determine which investment(s) may be appropriate for you, consult your financial professional prior to investing. Investing involves risks including possible loss of principal. No investment strategy or risk management technique can guarantee return or eliminate risk. Indexes are unmanaged statistical composites and cannot be invested into directly. Index performance is not indicative of the performance of any investment and do not reflect fees, expenses, or sales charges. The economic forecasts set forth in this material may not develop as predicted.The advisors of Ford Financial Group are Registered Representatives with and securities are offered through LPL Financial member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advice offered through Perennial Investment Advisors, a registered investment advisor. Ford Financial Group and Perennial Investment Advisors are separate entities from LPL Financial. Ford Financial Group, Perennial Investment Advisors, and LPL Financial do not provide tax advice or services.

This week Eric and Brian review how much "dry powder" is in money market funds and how these cash equivalent investments have swollen to record levels as rates have risen. However, event the Federal Reserve has said rates are coming down, so what are investors options if those sweet interest rates on money market funds really start to fall?Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@fordfinancialgroupSubscribe on Apple Podcasts (or wherever you listen to podcasts): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...Questions? Email us at info@FordFG.comWeb: FordFG.comThe opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results.There is no assurance that the views or strategies discussed are suitable for all investors. To determine which investment(s) may be appropriate for you, consult your financial professional prior to investing. Investing involves risks including possible loss of principal. No investment strategy or risk management technique can guarantee return or eliminate risk. Indexes are unmanaged statistical composites and cannot be invested into directly. Index performance is not indicative of the performance of any investment and do not reflect fees, expenses, or sales charges. The economic forecasts set forth in this material may not develop as predicted.Bonds are subject to market and interest rate risk if sold prior to maturity. Bond values will decline as interest rates rise and bonds are subject to availability and change in price.The advisors of Ford Financial Group are Registered Representatives with and securities are offered through LPL Financial member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advice offered through Perennial Investment Advisors, a registered investment advisor. Ford Financial Group and Perennial Investment Advisors are separate entities from LPL Financial. Ford Financial Group, Perennial Investment Advisors, and LPL Financial do not provide tax advice or services.

This week Ryan and Brian discuss how all of the jobs lost during the pandemic have been recovered (and then some), and how business are still having trouble hiring, despite the large number of unemployed workers.Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@fordfinancialgroupSubscribe on Apple Podcasts (or wherever you listen to podcasts): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...Questions? Email us at info@FordFG.comWeb: FordFG.comThe opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results.There is no assurance that the views or strategies discussed are suitable for all investors. To determine which investment(s) may be appropriate for you, consult your financial professional prior to investing. Investing involves risks including possible loss of principal. No investment strategy or risk management technique can guarantee return or eliminate risk. Indexes are unmanaged statistical composites and cannot be invested into directly. Index performance is not indicative of the performance of any investment and do not reflect fees, expenses, or sales charges. The economic forecasts set forth in this material may not develop as predicted.Bonds are subject to market and interest rate risk if sold prior to maturity. Bond values will decline as interest rates rise and bonds are subject to availability and change in price.The advisors of Ford Financial Group are Registered Representatives with and securities are offered through LPL Financial member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advice offered through Perennial Investment Advisors, a registered investment advisor. Ford Financial Group and Perennial Investment Advisors are separate entities from LPL Financial. Ford Financial Group, Perennial Investment Advisors, and LPL Financial do not provide tax advice or services.

This week Ryan and Brian review what could be ahead this year as the Fed begins to cut interest rates, and discuss how that impacts both equities and bonds in portfolios.Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@fordfinancialgroupSubscribe on Apple Podcasts (or wherever you listen to podcasts): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...Questions? Email us at info@FordFG.comWeb: FordFG.comThe opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results.There is no assurance that the views or strategies discussed are suitable for all investors. To determine which investment(s) may be appropriate for you, consult your financial professional prior to investing. Investing involves risks including possible loss of principal. No investment strategy or risk management technique can guarantee return or eliminate risk. Indexes are unmanaged statistical composites and cannot be invested into directly. Index performance is not indicative of the performance of any investment and do not reflect fees, expenses, or sales charges. The economic forecasts set forth in this material may not develop as predicted.Bonds are subject to market and interest rate risk if sold prior to maturity. Bond values will decline as interest rates rise and bonds are subject to availability and change in price.The advisors of Ford Financial Group are Registered Representatives with and securities are offered through LPL Financial member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advice offered through Perennial Investment Advisors, a registered investment advisor. Ford Financial Group and Perennial Investment Advisors are separate entities from LPL Financial. Ford Financial Group, Perennial Investment Advisors, and LPL Financial do not provide tax advice or services.

This week Ryan and Brian review LPL Research's 2024 outlook for stocks, bonds and the economy, and give there take on what could be ahead.LPL Research 2024 Outlook: https://bit.ly/3RKkZXGWatch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@fordfinancialgroupSubscribe on Apple Podcasts (or wherever you listen to podcasts): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...Click here for Ryan's chart: https://twitter.com/biancoresearch/st...Questions? Email us at info@FordFG.comWeb: FordFG.comThe opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results.There is no assurance that the views or strategies discussed are suitable for all investors. To determine which investment(s) may be appropriate for you, consult your financial professional prior to investing. Investing involves risks including possible loss of principal. No investment strategy or risk management technique can guarantee return or eliminate risk. Indexes are unmanaged statistical composites and cannot be invested into directly. Index performance is not indicative of the performance of any investment and do not reflect fees, expenses, or sales charges. The economic forecasts set forth in this material may not develop as predicted.Bonds are subject to market and interest rate risk if sold prior to maturity. Bond values will decline as interest rates rise and bonds are subject to availability and change in price.The advisors of Ford Financial Group are Registered Representatives with and securities are offered through LPL Financial member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advice offered through Perennial Investment Advisors, a registered investment advisor. Ford Financial Group and Perennial Investment Advisors are separate entities from LPL Financial. Ford Financial Group, Perennial Investment Advisors, and LPL Financial do not provide tax advice or services.

This week Ryan and Brian talk about how both stocks and bonds have been accelerating into the end of the year, though there may be reason to temper your optimism for 2024.Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@fordfinancialgroupSubscribe on Apple Podcasts (or wherever you listen to podcasts): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...Click here for Ryan's chart: https://twitter.com/biancoresearch/st...Questions? Email us at info@FordFG.comWeb: FordFG.comThe opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results.There is no assurance that the views or strategies discussed are suitable for all investors. To determine which investment(s) may be appropriate for you, consult your financial professional prior to investing. Investing involves risks including possible loss of principal. No investment strategy or risk management technique can guarantee return or eliminate risk. Indexes are unmanaged statistical composites and cannot be invested into directly. Index performance is not indicative of the performance of any investment and do not reflect fees, expenses, or sales charges. The economic forecasts set forth in this material may not develop as predicted.Bonds are subject to market and interest rate risk if sold prior to maturity. Bond values will decline as interest rates rise and bonds are subject to availability and change in price.The advisors of Ford Financial Group are Registered Representatives with and securities are offered through LPL Financial member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advice offered through Perennial Investment Advisors, a registered investment advisor. Ford Financial Group and Perennial Investment Advisors are separate entities from LPL Financial. Ford Financial Group, Perennial Investment Advisors, and LPL Financial do not provide tax advice or services.

In this episode, we dive deep into the world of Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs). Join us as we explore how QCDs can be a tax-savvy way to support your favorite charitable causes while benefiting your retirement savings. Brian shares valuable insights and practical tips to help you navigate this powerful financial strategy.A qualified charitable distribution (QCD) is a tax-free donation from an IRA to a qualified charity. To make a QCD, you must be at least 70.5 years old. You can use QCDs to manage required minimum distributions from an IRA. The amount of the distribution is based on your age and the account's balance. For example, couples who file taxes jointly can make up to $100,000 in QCDs each year, for a total of $200,000.Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@fordfinancialgroupSubscribe on Apple Podcasts (or wherever you listen to podcasts): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...Questions? Email us at info@FordFG.comWeb: FordFG.comThe opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results.There is no assurance that the views or strategies discussed are suitable for all investors. To determine which investment(s) may be appropriate for you, consult your financial professional prior to investing. Investing involves risks including possible loss of principal. No investment strategy or risk management technique can guarantee return or eliminate risk. Indexes are unmanaged statistical composites and cannot be invested into directly. Index performance is not indicative of the performance of any investment and do not reflect fees, expenses, or sales charges. The economic forecasts set forth in this material may not develop as predicted.The advisors of Ford Financial Group are Registered Representatives with and securities are offered through LPL Financial member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advice offered through Perennial Investment Advisors, a registered investment advisor. Ford Financial Group and Perennial Investment Advisors are separate entities from LPL Financial. Ford Financial Group, Perennial Investment Advisors, and LPL Financial do not provide tax advice or services.

Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@fordfinancialgroupSubscribe on Apple Podcasts (or wherever you listen to podcasts): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...Questions? Email us at info@FordFG.comWeb: FordFG.comThe opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results.There is no assurance that the views or strategies discussed are suitable for all investors. To determine which investment(s) may be appropriate for you, consult your financial professional prior to investing. Investing involves risks including possible loss of principal. No investment strategy or risk management technique can guarantee return or eliminate risk. Indexes are unmanaged statistical composites and cannot be invested into directly. Index performance is not indicative of the performance of any investment and do not reflect fees, expenses, or sales charges. The economic forecasts set forth in this material may not develop as predicted.The report used in this episode was prepared by Clearnomics, Inc, Copyright (c) 2023 . All rights reserved. The information contained herein has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable, but is not necessarily complete and its accuracy cannot be guaranteed. No representation or warranty, express or implied, is made as to the fairness, accuracy, completeness, or correctness of the information and opinions contained herein. The views and the other information provided are subject to change without notice. All reports posted on or via www.clearnomics.com or any affiliated websites, applications, or services are issued without regard to the specific investment objectives, financial situation, or particular needs of any specific recipient and are not to be construed as a solicitation or an offer to buy or sell any securities or related financial instruments. Predictions, forecasts, and estimates for any and all markets should not be construed as recommendations to buy, sell, or hold any security--including mutual funds, futures contracts, and exchange traded funds, or any similar instruments. The text, images, and other materials contained or displayed in this report are proprietary to Clearnomics, Inc. and constitute valuable intellectual property. All unauthorized reproduction or other use of material from Clearnomics, Inc. shall be deemed willful infringement(s) of this copyright and other proprietary and intellectual property rights, including but not limited to, rights of privacy. Clearnomics, Inc. expressly reserves all rights in connection with its intellectual property, including without limitation the right to block the transfer of its products and services and/or to track usage thereof, through electronic tracking technology, and all other lawful means, now known or hereafter devised. Clearnomics, Inc. reserves the right, without further notice, to pursue to the fullest extent allowed by the law any and all criminal and civil remedies for the violation of its rights.Tracking 

Bonus episode time! This week Brian discusses how tax bracket thresholds and Social Security benefits are adjusted for inflation.Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@fordfinancialgroupSubscribe on Apple Podcasts (or wherever you listen to podcasts): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...Questions? Email us at info@FordFG.comWeb: FordFG.comThe opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results.There is no assurance that the views or strategies discussed are suitable for all investors. To determine which investment(s) may be appropriate for you, consult your financial professional prior to investing. Investing involves risks including possible loss of principal. No investment strategy or risk management technique can guarantee return or eliminate risk. Indexes are unmanaged statistical composites and cannot be invested into directly. Index performance is not indicative of the performance of any investment and do not reflect fees, expenses, or sales charges. The economic forecasts set forth in this material may not develop as predicted.The report used in this episode was prepared by Clearnomics, Inc, Copyright (c) 2023 . All rights reserved. The information contained herein has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable, but is not necessarily complete and its accuracy cannot be guaranteed. No representation or warranty, express or implied, is made as to the fairness, accuracy, completeness, or correctness of the information and opinions contained herein. The views and the other information provided are subject to change without notice. All reports posted on or via www.clearnomics.com or any affiliated websites, applications, or services are issued without regard to the specific investment objectives, financial situation, or particular needs of any specific recipient and are not to be construed as a solicitation or an offer to buy or sell any securities or related financial instruments. Predictions, forecasts, and estimates for any and all markets should not be construed as recommendations to buy, sell, or hold any security--including mutual funds, futures contracts, and exchange traded funds, or any similar instruments. The text, images, and other materials contained or displayed in this report are proprietary to Clearnomics, Inc. and constitute valuable intellectual property. All unauthorized reproduction or other use of material from Clearnomics, Inc. shall be deemed willful infringement(s) of this copyright and other proprietary and intellectual property rights, including but not limited to, rights of privacy. Clearnomics, Inc. expressly reserves all rights in connection with its intellectual property, including without limitation the right to block the transfer of its products and services and/or to track usage thereof, through electronic tracking technology, and all other lawful means, now known or hereafter devised. Clearnomics, Inc. reserves the right, without further notice, to pursue to the fullest extent allowed by the law any and all criminal and civil remedies for the violation of its rights.Tracking 

This week Ryan and Brian talk about how the positive year to date performance of the S&P 500 has been driven by just a few stocks, and how a bear & bull market chart might be able to tell us when the S&P 500 could return to all time highs is in store for the US economy.Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@fordfinancialgroupSubscribe on Apple Podcasts (or wherever you listen to podcasts): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...Click here for Ryan's chart: https://twitter.com/biancoresearch/st...Questions? Email us at info@FordFG.comWeb: FordFG.comThe opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. There is no assurance that the views or strategies discussed are suitable for all investors. To determine which investment(s) may be appropriate for you, consult your financial professional prior to investing. Investing involves risks including possible loss of principal. No investment strategy or risk management technique can guarantee return or eliminate risk. Indexes are unmanaged statistical composites and cannot be invested into directly. Index performance is not indicative of the performance of any investment and do not reflect fees, expenses, or sales charges. The economic forecasts set forth in this material may not develop as predicted. Bonds are subject to market and interest rate risk if sold prior to maturity. Bond values will decline as interest rates rise and bonds are subject to availability and change in price.The advisors of Ford Financial Group are Registered Representatives with and securities are offered through LPL Financial member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advice offered through Perennial Investment Advisors, a registered investment advisor. Ford Financial Group and Perennial Investment Advisors are separate entities from LPL Financial. Ford Financial Group, Perennial Investment Advisors, and LPL Financial do not provide tax advice or services.Tracking #503979-1

This week Ryan and Brian talk about how AI has the potential to radically change the profitability of certain industries, and how economists polled by the Wall Street Journal are now evenly mixed on whether a recession is in store for the US economy.Subscribe on Apple Podcasts (or wherever you listen to podcasts)Click here for Ryan's chartClick here for Brian's chartAnd the Wall Street Journal ArticleQuestions? Email us at info@FordFG.comWeb: FordFG.comThe opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. There is no assurance that the views or strategies discussed are suitable for all investors. To determine which investment(s) may be appropriate for you, consult your financial professional prior to investing. Investing involves risks including possible loss of principal. No investment strategy or risk management technique can guarantee return or eliminate risk. Indexes are unmanaged statistical composites and cannot be invested into directly. Index performance is not indicative of the performance of any investment and do not reflect fees, expenses, or sales charges. The economic forecasts set forth in this material may not develop as predicted. Bonds are subject to market and interest rate risk if sold prior to maturity. Bond values will decline as interest rates rise and bonds are subject to availability and change in price.The advisors of Ford Financial Group are Registered Representatives with and securities are offered through LPL Financial member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advice offered through Perennial Investment Advisors, a registered investment advisor. Ford Financial Group and Perennial Investment Advisors are separate entities from LPL Financial. Ford Financial Group, Perennial Investment Advisors, and LPL Financial do not provide tax advice or services.Tracking #493956-1

This week Ryan and Brian talk about how bond yields have shot higher recently, and how stock and bond markets have taken a beating as a result.Click here to register for FFG's October 17th WebinarSubscribe on Apple Podcasts (or wherever you listen to podcasts)Click here for Ryan's chartClick here for CNN's Fear and Greed IndexSeasonality chart referenced by Brian from All Star ChartsQuestions? Email us at info@FordFG.comWeb: FordFG.comThe opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. There is no assurance that the views or strategies discussed are suitable for all investors. To determine which investment(s) may be appropriate for you, consult your financial professional prior to investing. Investing involves risks including possible loss of principal. No investment strategy or risk management technique can guarantee return or eliminate risk. Indexes are unmanaged statistical composites and cannot be invested into directly. Index performance is not indicative of the performance of any investment and do not reflect fees, expenses, or sales charges. The economic forecasts set forth in this material may not develop as predicted. Bonds are subject to market and interest rate risk if sold prior to maturity. Bond values will decline as interest rates rise and bonds are subject to availability and change in price.The advisors of Ford Financial Group are Registered Representatives with and securities are offered through LPL Financial member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advice offered through Perennial Investment Advisors, a registered investment advisor. Ford Financial Group and Perennial Investment Advisors are separate entities from LPL Financial. Ford Financial Group, Perennial Investment Advisors, and LPL Financial do not provide tax advice or services.Tracking #488593-1

This week Ryan and Brian talk about the performance of US Tech firms versus tech internationally, and also review past market performance during US Government shutdowns.Subscribe on Amazon Prime Music (or wherever you listen to podcasts)Click here for Ryan's chartClick here for Brian's 1st chartClick here for Brian's 2nd chartQuestions? Email us at info@FordFG.comWeb: FordFG.comMusic: Cold Funk - Funkorama by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution license.The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. There is no assurance that the views or strategies discussed are suitable for all investors. To determine which investment(s) may be appropriate for you, consult your financial professional prior to investing. Investing involves risks including possible loss of principal. No investment strategy or risk management technique can guarantee return or eliminate risk. Indexes are unmanaged statistical composites and cannot be invested into directly. Index performance is not indicative of the performance of any investment and do not reflect fees, expenses, or sales charges. The economic forecasts set forth in this material may not develop as predicted. Bonds are subject to market and interest rate risk if sold prior to maturity. Bond values will decline as interest rates rise and bonds are subject to availability and change in price.The advisors of Ford Financial Group are Registered Representatives with and securities are offered through LPL Financial member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advice offered through Perennial Investment Advisors, a registered investment advisor. Ford Financial Group and Perennial Investment Advisors are separate entities from LPL Financial. Ford Financial Group, Perennial Investment Advisors, and LPL Financial do not provide tax advice or services.

This week Brian and Ryan talk about the seasonal performance of markets and how August and September can tend to be difficult months of the year. They also cover the recent news of the OPEC+ extended cuts and how the news has caused oil prices to shoot higher.Seasonality Charts:https://www.carsongroup.com/insights/blog/this-is-normal/https://www.bespokepremium.com/interactive/researchOil Charts:https://twitter.com/Barchart/status/1699158280768045147?s=20https://twitter.com/LizYoungStrat/status/1699161088372232629?s=20Tracking ID 476923-1Questions? Email us at info@FordFG.comWeb: FordFG.comMusic: Cold Funk - Funkorama by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution license.The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. There is no assurance that the views or strategies discussed are suitable for all investors. To determine which investment(s) may be appropriate for you, consult your financial professional prior to investing. Investing involves risks including possible loss of principal. No investment strategy or risk management technique can guarantee return or eliminate risk. Indexes are unmanaged statistical composites and cannot be invested into directly. Index performance is not indicative of the performance of any investment and do not reflect fees, expenses, or sales charges. The economic forecasts set forth in this material may not develop as predicted. Bonds are subject to market and interest rate risk if sold prior to maturity. Bond values will decline as interest rates rise and bonds are subject to availability and change in price.The advisors of Ford Financial Group are Registered Representatives with and securities are offered through LPL Financial member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advice offered through Perennial Investment Advisors, a registered investment advisor. Ford Financial Group and Perennial Investment Advisors are separate entities from LPL Financial. Ford Financial Group, Perennial Investment Advisors, and LPL Financial do not provide tax advice or services.

This week Brian and Ryan talk more about "back to school," and the impacts of inflation on school materials and spending by families. They also cover the Conference Board's Leading Economic Index, or "LEI," and how it is clearly declaring that a recession is on the way.They finish up with a discussion on streaming services and their increases in cost (is it actually cheaper than cable?), and on money lessons for Brian's kids.CNBC: Back to School Inflation https://www.cnbc.com/2023/08/04/back-to-school-shopping-prices-rise-for-backpacks-notepads-pens.htmlNational Retail Federation Back to School Spending: https://nrf.com/insights/holiday-and-seasonal-trends/back-to-schoolWSJ Streamflation: https://www.wsj.com/articles/disney-max-hulu-netflix-streaming-price-2c3bac2aConference Board LEI: https://www.conference-board.org/topics/us-leading-indicatorsBespoke Investment Group S&P 500 Returns over time: https://twitter.com/bespokeinvest/status/1693642124820914528?s=20Tracking ID 471318-1

This week Ryan and Brian discuss how July's non-farm payrolls grew by 187,000, slightly below consensus, with a slight increase from June's revised figure of 185,000. Unemployment rate decreased to 3.5% from the previous 3.6%, while labor force participation remained at 62.6% for the fifth consecutive month.They also covered how Fitch downgraded U.S. government debt from AAA to AA+ due to expected fiscal deterioration, high debt burden, and governance erosion. Yet, the rating downgrade is unlikely to impact U.S. debt or markets; U.S. remains a safe haven during market stress.Job Growth Chart 1Job Growth Chart 2Market Reaction to 2011 Credit DowngradeTracking # 467084-1Tracking # 1-05376752Tracking #1-05377068

This week Joe and Brian discuss how weird the housing market is right now, and reference data from Redfin.Click here: Redfin Downloadable Housing Market DataFind Joe Perry here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joe-perry-54428921/

This week Brian discusses how expanding market breadth and renewed hope for an economic soft landing have recently pushed the Dow Jones Industrial Average and Dow Jones Transportation Average to new 52-week highs, and how the breakout on both indices has produced a Dow Theory buy signal also adds to the evidence that the primary trend of the broader market is higher. Chart: Dow Returns After Win StreakTracking #1-05375971