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CLA Outlook — Key Insights for Sound Financial Strategies

Take steps to prepare for changing scenarios.
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May 19 Weekly Insights
United States and China reach significant trade agreement
The agreement marks a significant step toward easing trade tensions and boosted global equity markets, but its temporary nature and the complexity of unresolved issues suggest further negotiations are critical.
Data shows inflation is trending back toward the Fed’s 2% target
Inflation is trending back toward the Federal Reserve’s target rate of 2%, thus opening the door for future interest rate cuts. However, there are lingering concerns tariffs may cause inflation to ramp back up even as the economy slows. There is a risk the Fed keeps interest rates too high for too long, slowing the economy more than necessary.  
U.S. dollar strength coincides with U.S. equities outperforming international equities
There is some correlation between U.S. stocks and the strength of the U.S. dollar, with U.S. stocks often outperforming international stocks when the U.S. dollar is strengthening and underperforming when it is weakening. The U.S. dollar has fallen roughly 9.5% since the beginning of the year, which is a primary reason why U.S. stocks have lagged their global counterparts on a year-to-date basis.  
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Tune in to the second-quarter session of the CLA Outlook as we discuss timely topics around policy, the economy, and year-to-date market performance.
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Strategic Steps
5 Actions Portfolio Owners Should Take Considering Market Volatility
During uncertain times, successful investors take strategic steps to prepare for varied scenarios. Explore key actions you can take to navigate these periods:
  • 1. Review your asset allocation
    Align your portfolio with your long-term goals and risk tolerance.
    Consider rebalancing your portfolio to maintain your desired asset allocation.
  • 2. Harvest tax losses
    Take advantage of market downturns to sell investments at a loss, which can offset gains and reduce your taxable income.
  • 3. Make Roth conversions
    Converting traditional IRA assets to a Roth IRA during market dips can be beneficial, as you may pay taxes on a lower account value.
  • 4. Put excess cash to work
    If you have cash reserves, consider investing in opportunities aligning with your financial strategy. Money market accounts may be an attractive option for investors seeking a higher return rate on their cash reserves while maintaining liquidity and low risk.
  • 5. Consider gifting strategies
    Use market volatility to make strategic gifts, potentially reducing your taxable estate while benefiting your beneficiaries.
  • We can help
    No matter your financial position, incorporating sound tax and wealth advisory could help you achieve more. We are here to guide you to a more comprehensive approach.
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