It’s all about the economy and vaccinations! These are 2 parallel themes that have guided my advice to our investors for nearly a year and, fortunately, we were and continue to be positioned for it.
The first quarter of the year, the U.S. market continued its rise to new highs. But, it wasn’t the same old FAANG or so called “stay at home” stocks that worked this time. As I mentioned last year, the “dividend” achievers were mysteriously being overlooked, yet finally showed some growth in Q1.
More so, the gap between growth stocks and value/dividend stocks has narrowed and some analysts say that will continue throughout this year. Additionally, International stocks look attractive still, but reopening’s are being delayed with continued covid-19 issues in Europe and Asia.
Finally, for conservative bond investors this past quarter was quite a shock since rising interest rates put them in the red for the first time in years Rates still remain pretty low, but I wouldn’t be surprised to see another pop in rates by year end.
See this link for more info on Q1: Market Summary: January- March
News from the SWM team:
Jeff is fully vaccinated and feeling relief as an asthmatic. Also, he recently donated nearly 100 meals to frontline nurses and doctors at a local Atlanta hospital
Allison passed Janney’s Financial Planning series Level 1 in February
Kevin and his family welcomed their new dog, Dooley, a golden retriever.
Have a nice Spring! Jeff Schultz, CFP®
