The market does not care about our opinion regarding what it “should” do. Right now the market does not seem to care that COVID-19 cases and positive test rates are on the rise in the US. What the market cares about now is that economic data has been better than expected...

Be wary of these five common copywriting mistakes I see advisors make on their websites.

After years working with those age 65-plus in their transition to the Medicare system, I’ll share some ideas and tips that will lead to some great conversations between you and your clients – and, likely some added revenue for your practice.

As we reach the half-way point of what has been an extremely eventful year in asset markets, this week we take a step back and assess the current landscape from a momentum perspective. Where is the momentum and how likely is it to persist?

Rick Rieder, Russ Brownback and Trevor Slaven contend that in the tug-of-war between the considerable economic damage stemming from the coronavirus and subsequent lockdowns, and the fiscal and monetary policy responses put in place, the latter factor is being underestimated by markets. Further, the instruments used by investors in previous years won’t be what’s required for the time ahead.

The unprecedented amount of fiscal and monetary stimulus that has been showered on the US and global economies has the potential to lead to inflation...an environment of generally rising prices. Unfortunately, this could be playing out in an environment of little to no economic growth.

I’m sharing and analyzing five examples of great visual content from financial advisors.

If Chairman Powell’s comments are interpreted as signaling the likelihood of anemic economic growth over the next two years, we would expect the prevailing trends (growth over value; large over small) to reassert themselves shortly.

Russ discusses why consumption has held up, and how the pandemic has accelerated long-term trends.

In the spirit of full disclosure, this week’s note largely serves as a set-up piece. The main market ETFs are all currently overbought after making dramatic rallies from the March 23rd lows. The strength has been largely driven by a rotation into the more cyclical areas of the market...

In normal times, COBRA coverage presents challenges for those who are eligible for Medicare. Throw in COVID-19 and your clients face perilous decisions about their health care.

In the current market environment, both the bulls and the bears have data points on which they can stake their case. In this note we highlight both sides of the argument and then look at each asset class in an objective way to get a sense for what the market truly believes.

Seasons of adversity reveal our shortcomings. Advisory businesses with the following qualities have the best chance of not only surviving the pandemic but finding ways to thrive in spite of it.

The narrative moves on with investors focused on economic re-openings and the path to a COVID-19 vaccine. We have written at length about how while many think that the market is disconnected from the economy, we do not think that is the case.

Russ highlights the surprising resilience of technology stocks this year.

Rick Rieder, Russ Brownback and Trevor Slaven contend that even as markets were rocked by uncertainty as the coronavirus lockdowns began, the seeds of stability were sown in the massive fiscal and monetary policy response. The key is to know how to manage through this period for the long haul.

Russ explains why Chinese equities should still be a core holding.

To improve your website, I’m sharing the top five elements the highest converting advisor websites have in common.

You may not need to be active on every social media platform. It depends on the niche you target.

Your clients are typically blindsided before they come to me. They believe that Medicare is “free” or is largely subsidized because, “I paid into the system my whole life and now I have to pay what?”

Russ discusses the surprising strength in momentum stocks, and why it may continue.

As Russ explains, bonds may not be providing significant income, but still offer a hedge against equity risk.

This is the best time for you to double down on your marketing efforts and fully embrace a digital communications process.

There is a general perception that expensive equipment and expertise are required to create successful video content, but that is simply not true. Here are three simple steps to create professional-looking videos.

It was big news last fall when Joe Namath was on the airwaves promoting his “excellent, free” Medicare plan. Here’s what to tell your clients when they ask about it.

Russ discusses the importance of keeping perspective as we face an unprecedented crisis.

For many businesses, the sudden transition from a physical to a virtual company has been jarring. But other businesses have been operating remotely since their inception. One example is Advisor Perspectives, and another is the marketing platform, Twenty Over Ten. I am joined today by two of the principals of Twenty Over Ten, who will talk about their unique story, what they did to create an effective virtual company and how they are helping advisors with their communications strategy.

Russ discusses the reasons why gold can be an effective hedge going forward.

I’m going to answer two questions: How much do advisors typically spend to market their businesses? and How much should you be spending?

I outline what marketing personalization is and how advisors can use it in this digital age.

Technology shares are once again leaving everything else in the dust. Year-to-date, the MSCI Information Technology sector, led by U.S. tech, is beating the broader market by over 5% and is ahead of laggards, notably energy, by nearly 20%.

As Russ explains, bond yields may be low, but are still critical as an insurance policy against equity risk.

What if I told you that you could create one (just one!) blog post to drive your entire inbound marketing strategy?

Russ discusses the catalysts favoring Emerging Markets, beginning with the Federal Reserve.

Rick Rieder, Russ Brownback and Trevor Slaven contend that eight major market influences are likely to dominate the investment environment in the year ahead and that the proper portfolio mix will be instrumental in delivering a successful outcome.

The stories of Sheetz and Wawa and how they shifted the focus of their brands offer a fantastic marketing lesson to every financial advisor.

Let’s talk about a few large “surprise” Medicare-related expenses that your clients may not know about.

After an astounding 2019, what’s in store for 2020? Russ discusses.

Rick Rieder and Russ Brownback argue that contrary to the many year-end outlooks foreseeing either a recession or a rebound in 2020, the most likely path for the economy and markets is more moderate, which can be encapsulated in their theme of “1.8.”

As Russ explains, the evolution of the consumer, still a pillar of the markets, has major implications for investors.

Rick Rieder and Russ Brownback argue that – in contrast to the past decade of monetary policy lifting all economic boats at once – the years ahead are likely to be characterized by great dispersion between economies, industries and markets. Understanding that dynamic will be the name of the game for investment success.

Russ explains why monetary easing matters more than geopolitical risks for the markets right now.

Should you be comfortable referring your clients to CPAs or other professionals who also handle annuities, investments and insurance?

Rick Rieder, Russ Brownback and Trevor Slaven contend that much of the recent criticism brought to bear against Fed policy makers is misguided, and in fact the central bank has done an admirable job of pivoting toward a pragmatic equilibrium in recent months.

Recent data show a slowing economy, but no recession. Russ discusses how to position a portfolio in this environment.

Once again, U.S. consumers are keeping the global economy out of the abyss. Russ discusses why.

Interest rates rose last week, but the surge did not keep stocks from climbing. Russ explains why.

Russ describes the reasons why growth stocks can still outperform value.

Easier financial conditions have lessened the blow of greater political uncertainty. Can that continue?

Given the recent volatility, investors may be wary of tech. Not so fast, Russ explains.