Discussion regarding the many facets of AI (Artificial Intelligence) is spreading around the world. Several fears are being expressed about AI in general, but one serious threat that has come to fruition is the Deepfake.
The first quarter ended with a new high for the S&P 500. Earnings growth expectations helped fuel the rally, which kept going despite higher interest rates. Higher rates pushed bond prices lower, resulting in a small loss for the Aggregate index, though our clients’ exposure to shorter-term corporate bonds and alternative funds typically resulted in a gain.
A scam called “check washing” is currently on the rise. This occurs when thieves steal checks, usually through the mail, and use household chemicals to “wash” the existing ink on the check.
Positive stock momentum continued as earnings increased, inflation moderated, jobs remained strong, and interest rates remained range bound.
When will the Fed start cutting rates? The S&P 500 crossed above 5,000 for the first time, despite higher interest rates this year.
Markets are at all-time highs, GDP topped expectations, semiconductor (chip) stocks are the talk of the town, and the Fed is on hold (for now).
Employers now can correct or withdraw erroneous claims for credits and refunds that involved the Employee Retention Credit (“ERC”). The ERC is a refundable tax credit available to employers that continued to pay their employees during the COVID-19 pandemic and had any of the following items. Click to read more.
Starting in 2024, newly formed corporations, limited liability companies (LLCs), limited partnerships, and other entities that file formation papers with a state’s Secretary of State’s office (or similar government agency) must file a report with the U.S. Treasury Department’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) providing specified information regarding the entity’s “beneficial owners.”
The fourth quarter saw year-to-date highs in stock prices, including the Dow Jones Industrial Average reaching 37,000 for the first time. The intertwined elements of lower inflation, expectations of Fed rate cuts, and lower interest rates were the primary drivers of higher stock prices and higher bond returns.
Markets on the move: stocks at or near all-time highs, the Fed pivot, lower bond yields, and gold Q&A.