Economic dissatisfaction is a pervasive theme in this year’s Presidential primary season. This week’s articles focus on jobs, particularly manufacturing jobs; the state of the middle class; and globalization. The real jobs issue that nobody is debating. This year’s narrative is about the tragic decline of American manufacturing, but Ed Marsh, editor of Manufacturing Strategy,
Presidential elections almost universally encompass economic issues—the electorate “votes with their pocketbooks.” This Presidential primary season has been no different than most, aside from the unusually distasteful rhetoric on the campaign trail and the pervasiveness of economic dissatisfaction. This week, we present thoughtful articles and viewpoints on policies to help spur a growth-oriented policy program.
Losses in financial markets since the year’s start have engendered fears of a replay of the 2008 financial crisis. Justin Lahart of The Wall Street Journal explains the crucial differences between then and now. Paul Krugman of The New York Times dissects China’s problems and discusses the potential for psychological contagion. Finally, Liz Ann Sonders
In 2016, take a page from the Redskins’ playbook and try to sock as much money away as you can. You never know what’s going to happen. Then alternatively, think seriously about spending for play. You may just find yourself having more fun and spending less money as a result. Finally, think about the market
The Federal Reserve has raised interest rates. More increases are expected in 2016. Barron’s reports. Liz Ann Sonders of Charles Schwab says to expect uncertainty at the start of the coming year. Despite a stated preference for good new, people often choose to read bad news headlines first. Jim Parker of DFA warns investors of
What effect will the tragic ISIS strikes on Paris have on the world economy? Nicholas Wells offers analysis and a forecast for the long term. In spite of fear provoked by the terrorist attacks, the popularity of the Islamic state is starting to wear out, even as it still poses a threat. In other news,
Intriguing subject matter relating to retirement was the topic of several sessions at the AICPA Advanced Personal Financial Planning Conference held January 19-21, 2015. This week we share some of the conference’s golden nuggets and more. Retiring in a Low-Return Environment. Investment returns and retirement spending have been based on information drawn from the past.