A comprehensive sell-off on Friday following comments by Fed Chair Jerome Powell drove stocks to losses for the week.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average tumbled 4.22%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 dropped 4.04%. The Nasdaq Composite index fell 4.44% for the week. The MSCI EAFE index, which tracks developed overseas stock markets, lost 1.10%.^1,2,3

Under Pressure

Stocks dropped on Friday following Powell’s remarks reiterating the Fed’s inflation-fighting resolve. While his comments did not break new ground, markets reacted severely, perhaps on worries that interest rate hikes may continue into next year.

After starting the week sharply lower on renewed rising interest rates and economic slowdown fears, markets staged a modest turnaround beginning mid-week. Stocks rallied on Thursday, sparked by a revised Gross Domestic Product estimate showing the economy’s shrinking less than initially estimated. Thursday’s rally also got a boost from regional Federal Reserve Bank presidents, who suggested future rate hikes may be in line with market expectations.

Powell at Jackson Hole

In his much-anticipated speech at the Jackson Hole Economic Symposium, Powell unflinchingly reaffirmed the Fed’s commitment to raising rates to lower inflation, even if it results in causing pain to individuals and businesses.

Wall Street focused on Powell’s presentation in the hope it might provide greater clarity on future Fed direction, though his remarks ultimately went no further than restating past communications. Powell commented, “We are moving our policy stance purposefully to a level that will be sufficiently restrictive to return inflation to two percent.” This statement may have put to rest any thoughts that the Fed would soon pivot on rate hikes.⁴ 

This Week: Key Economic Data

Tuesday: Consumer Confidence. Job Openings and Turnover Survey (JOLTS).

Wednesday: Automated Data Processing (ADP) Employment Report.

Thursday: Jobless Claims. Institute for Supply Management (ISM) Manufacturing Index.

Friday: Employment Situation. Factory Orders.

^{Source: Econoday, August 26, 2022
The Econoday economic calendar lists upcoming U.S. economic data releases (including key economic indicators), Federal Reserve policy meetings, and speaking engagements of Federal Reserve officials. The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The forecasts or forward-looking statements are based on assumptions and may not materialize. The forecasts also are subject to revision.}

This Week: Companies Reporting Earnings

Tuesday: Best Buy Co., Inc. (BBY), HP, Inc. (HPQ).

Thursday: Broadcom, Inc. (AVGO), Hormel Foods Corporation (HRL).

^{Source: Zacks, August 26, 2022
Companies mentioned are for informational purposes only. It should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of the securities. Investing involves risks, and investment decisions should be based on your own goals, time horizon, and tolerance for risk. The return and principal value of investments will fluctuate as market conditions change. When sold, investments may be worth more or less than their original cost. Companies may reschedule when they report earnings without notice.}

“The road less traveled is sometimes fraught with barricades, bumps, and uncharted terrain. But it is on that road where your character is truly tested.”

– Katie Couric

How to Check the Status of Your Federal Tax Refund

Filing taxes has become more seamless in recent years due to e-filing. It’s also easy to check the status of your refund if you anticipate one. The IRS has a tool called Where’s My Refund? where taxpayers can check the status of their refund within 24 hours of the IRS acknowledging the taxpayer’s e-filed return. You can also see a personalized refund date after the return is processed.

You can access the tool online on the IRS website or via their app. You will see three phases: return received, refund approved, and refund sent. The IRS recommends setting up direct deposit to receive your refund even faster. They update the tool once a day.

* This information is not intended to be a substitute for specific, individualized tax advice. We suggest that you discuss your specific tax issues with a qualified tax professional.

Tip adapted from IRS.gov⁵

Channel Your Inner Cat and Cow

The cat-cow stretch is fantastic for your back, pelvis, neck, and more. Plus, it’s simple to learn and simple to do!

First, start on the floor on all fours. Your hands should be shoulder-width apart, and your knees should be hip-width apart. You can do the cat-cow stretch on a mat or carpeted floor.

Next, inhale a deep breath, arch your back, tilt your pelvis downward, and look to the ceiling. Don’t force your neck too far up.

Then, exhale a big breath and curve your back (like a scary Halloween cat). Tuck your chin into your chest and pull your pelvis up as you curve your back.

The goal is to move through these movements with your breath.

Tip adapted from Very Well Fit⁶

What can run but never walks, has a mouth but never eats, has a head but never thinks, and has a bed but never sleeps?

Last week’s riddle: I am in the center of gravity, and part of every victory. I am clearly seen in the midst of a river. I could name three who are in love with me and have three associates in vice. What am I? Riddle answer: The letter “V.”

The Fishing Village of Henningsvær, Norway

Footnotes and Sources

^{1. The Wall Street Journal, August 26, 2022}

^{2. The Wall Street Journal, August 26, 2022}

^{3. The Wall Street Journal, August 26, 2022}

^{4. The Wall Street Journal, August 26, 2022}

^{5. IRS.gov, April 19, 2022}

^{6. VeryWellFit.com, May 26, 2022}

^{Investing involves risks, and investment decisions should be based on your own goals, time horizon, and tolerance for risk. The return and principal value of investments will fluctuate as market conditions change. When sold, investments may be worth more or less than their original cost.}

^{The forecasts or forward-looking statements are based on assumptions, may not materialize, and are subject to revision without notice.}

^{The market indexes discussed are unmanaged, and generally, considered representative of their respective markets. Index performance is not indicative of the past performance of a particular investment. Indexes do not incur management fees, costs, and expenses. Individuals cannot directly invest in unmanaged indexes. Past performance does not guarantee future results.}

^{The Dow Jones Industrial Average is an unmanaged index that is generally considered representative of large-capitalization companies on the U.S. stock market. Nasdaq Composite is an index of the common stocks and similar securities listed on the NASDAQ stock market and is considered a broad indicator of the performance of technology and growth companies. The MSCI EAFE Index was created by Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) and serves as a benchmark of the performance of major international equity markets, as represented by 21 major MSCI indexes from Europe, Australia, and Southeast Asia. The S&P 500 Composite Index is an unmanaged group of securities that are considered to be representative of the stock market in general.}

^{U.S. Treasury Notes are guaranteed by the federal government as to the timely payment of principal and interest. However, if you sell a Treasury Note prior to maturity, it may be worth more or less than the original price paid. Fixed income investments are subject to various risks including changes in interest rates, credit quality, inflation risk, market valuations, prepayments, corporate events, tax ramifications and other factors.}

^{International investments carry additional risks, which include differences in financial reporting standards, currency exchange rates, political risks unique to a specific country, foreign taxes and regulations, and the potential for illiquid markets. These factors may result in greater share price volatility.}

^{Please consult your financial professional for additional information.}

^{This content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. This material was developed and produced by FMG Suite to provide information on a topic that may be of interest. FMG is not affiliated with the named representative, financial professional, Registered Investment Advisor, Broker-Dealer, nor state- or SEC-registered investment advisory firm. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and they should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security.}

^{Copyright 2022 FMG Suite.}

Stocks tumbled on Friday, sending stocks to a weekly loss after an otherwise quiet August week of trading.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average slipped -0.16%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 lost 1.21%. The Nasdaq Composite index declined 2.62% for the week. The MSCI EAFE index, which tracks developed overseas stock markets, fell 0.88%. ^1,2,3

Summer Rally Hits Pause Button

The market rally that began in mid-June paused last week. Despite the week’s losses, stocks exhibited resiliency in the face of a string of troubling economic news that included flat retail sales, weak housing numbers, an inversion in the yield curve, and tepid economic data out of China.

Nevertheless, stocks tumbled on Friday amid hawkish comments about future rate hikes, rising bond yields, and ahead of the annual meeting of global central bankers in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, in which Fed Chair Jerome Powell is scheduled to speak on August 26th.

Expect More Rate Hikes

Minutes from July’s Federal Open Market Committee meeting indicated that additional rate hikes would be needed to help manage inflation. Fed officials did acknowledge that further rate hikes risked unintended economic weakness because of the time it takes for higher rates to work through the economy. The committee indicated that they might slow rate hikes to determine the impact of previous rate increases. ⁴

The minutes also contained the Fed’s latest economic forecasts, which projected inflation to decline faster than its June estimate due to a bigger economic slowdown in the year’s second half. ⁵ 

This Week: Key Economic Data

Tuesday: Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) Composite Flash. New Home Sales.

Wednesday: Durable Goods Orders.

Thursday: Jobless Claims. Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

^{Source: Econoday, August 19, 2022
The Econoday economic calendar lists upcoming U.S. economic data releases (including key economic indicators), Federal Reserve policy meetings, and speaking engagements of Federal Reserve officials. The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The forecasts or forward-looking statements are based on assumptions and may not materialize. The forecasts also are subject to revision.}

This Week: Companies Reporting Earnings

Monday: Palo Alto Networks, Inc. (PANW), Zoom Video Communications, Inc. (ZM).

Tuesday: Intuit, Inc. (INTU).

Wednesday: Nvidia Corporation (NVDA), Salesforce, Inc. (CRM), Snowflake, Inc. (SNOW).

Thursday: Marvell Technology, Inc. (MRVL), Dollar General Corporation (DG), Dell Technologies, Inc. (DELL), VMware, Inc. (VMW).

^{Source: Zacks, August 19, 2022
Companies mentioned are for informational purposes only. It should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of the securities. Investing involves risks, and investment decisions should be based on your own goals, time horizon, and tolerance for risk. The return and principal value of investments will fluctuate as market conditions change. When sold, investments may be worth more or less than their original cost. Companies may reschedule when they report earnings without notice.}

“Experience is a dear teacher, but fools will learn at no other.”

– Benjamin Franklin

Received A Letter From the IRS? Here’s What to Do

The IRS mails letters or notices to taxpayers for a variety of reasons, including:

• You have a balance due
• You are due a larger or smaller refund
• The IRS has a question about their tax return
• You must verify your identity
• The IRS requires additional information
• The IRS changed their tax return

If you receive a letter or notice from the IRS, check to see if there are any action items. If something needs attention, the IRS may provide a deadline for a response. You should also keep a copy of the letter for your tax records. Remember, all official IRS correspondence is through the mail, so there is usually no need to call the IRS.

* This information is not intended to be a substitute for specific, individualized tax advice. We suggest that you discuss your specific tax issues with a qualified tax professional.

Tip adapted from IRS.gov⁶

Combat “Text Neck” With These Two Stretches

From texting to emailing to browsing the internet and social media, we spend hours and hours every day on our phones, which can cause pain in our back and neck.

Have a tight neck? These two stretches can help!

• The exaggerated nod – This stretch seems simple, but it’s very effective. Sit comfortably and with your teeth touching but not clenched, lean your head back like you are looking up to the ceiling. Then, gently open and close your mouth. You should feel a stretch both in the back of your neck and in the front.
• Touch your toes – This stretch addresses both your hamstrings and your neck. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and hinge at your hips while reaching down to touch your toes. Relax your neck. If you can’t touch your toes, that’s ok! Enjoy the stretch along your back.

Tip adapted from Healthline⁷

I am in the center of gravity, and part of every victory. I am clearly seen in the midst of a river. I could name three who are in love with me and have three associates in vice. What am I?

Last week’s riddle: Trains travel from one town to another town all day, always on the same track, always going nonstop and at the same speed. The noon train took 80 minutes to complete the trip, but the 4 PM train took an hour and 20 minutes. Why?  Riddle answer: 80 minutes is the same as an hour and 20 minutes.

Lummi Island, Washington, United States

Footnotes and Sources

^{1. The Wall Street Journal, August 19, 2022}

^{2. The Wall Street Journal, August 19, 2022}

^{3. The Wall Street Journal, August 19, 2022}

^{4. The Wall Street Journal, August 17, 2022}

^{5. The Wall Street Journal, August 17, 2022}

^{6. IRS.gov, April 21, 2022}

^{7.  Healthline.com, May 26, 2022}

^{Investing involves risks, and investment decisions should be based on your own goals, time horizon, and tolerance for risk. The return and principal value of investments will fluctuate as market conditions change. When sold, investments may be worth more or less than their original cost.}

^{The forecasts or forward-looking statements are based on assumptions, may not materialize, and are subject to revision without notice.}

^{The market indexes discussed are unmanaged, and generally, considered representative of their respective markets. Index performance is not indicative of the past performance of a particular investment. Indexes do not incur management fees, costs, and expenses. Individuals cannot directly invest in unmanaged indexes. Past performance does not guarantee future results.}

^{The Dow Jones Industrial Average is an unmanaged index that is generally considered representative of large-capitalization companies on the U.S. stock market. Nasdaq Composite is an index of the common stocks and similar securities listed on the NASDAQ stock market and is considered a broad indicator of the performance of technology and growth companies. The MSCI EAFE Index was created by Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) and serves as a benchmark of the performance of major international equity markets, as represented by 21 major MSCI indexes from Europe, Australia, and Southeast Asia. The S&P 500 Composite Index is an unmanaged group of securities that are considered to be representative of the stock market in general.}

^{U.S. Treasury Notes are guaranteed by the federal government as to the timely payment of principal and interest. However, if you sell a Treasury Note prior to maturity, it may be worth more or less than the original price paid. Fixed income investments are subject to various risks including changes in interest rates, credit quality, inflation risk, market valuations, prepayments, corporate events, tax ramifications and other factors.}

^{International investments carry additional risks, which include differences in financial reporting standards, currency exchange rates, political risks unique to a specific country, foreign taxes and regulations, and the potential for illiquid markets. These factors may result in greater share price volatility.}

^{Please consult your financial professional for additional information.}

^{This content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. This material was developed and produced by FMG Suite to provide information on a topic that may be of interest. FMG is not affiliated with the named representative, financial professional, Registered Investment Advisor, Broker-Dealer, nor state- or SEC-registered investment advisory firm. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and they should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security.}

^{Copyright 2022 FMG Suite.}

An improving inflation outlook buoyed investors’ spirits last week, helping lift stocks to solid gains.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average advanced 2.92%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 rose 3.26%. The Nasdaq Composite index added 3.08% for the week. The MSCI EAFE index, which tracks developed overseas stock markets, gained 2.39%.^1,2,3

Lower Inflation Spurs Buying

Stock prices surged mid-week when the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics released a better-than-expected Consumer Price Index (CPI) number, with buying momentum building throughout the trading session.

Gains were significant across the board, with technology and small-cap companies leading the market higher. The mid-week rally sent the S&P 500 to its highest level since May and the Nasdaq to its highest level since April. Bond yields fell on expectations that the Fed’s pressure to hike rates further might ease. After pausing on Thursday, stocks again ripped higher on Friday, aided, in part, by a report indicating improving consumer sentiment.⁴

Inflation Cools

The Consumer Price Index in July was softer than expected, with prices unchanged from the previous month thanks to a 4.6% decline in energy prices and a 7.7% drop in gasoline.⁴

Despite the encouraging results, the CPI report still evidenced upward price pressure. The year-over-year inflation rate remained at 8.5%, while the core CPI (excluding food and energy) came in at 5.9%. Among the index components seeing substantial price increases were food (+10.9% from 12 months ago) and shelter (+5.7%). Producer prices fell 0.5% in July, suggesting that future consumer price increases may continue to moderate.^5,6

This Week: Key Economic Data

Tuesday: Industrial Production. Housing Starts.

Wednesday: Retail Sales. Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) Minutes.

Thursday: Jobless Claims. Existing Home Sales. Index of Leading Economic Indicators.

^{Source: Econoday, August 12, 2022
The Econoday economic calendar lists upcoming U.S. economic data releases (including key economic indicators), Federal Reserve policy meetings, and speaking engagements of Federal Reserve officials. The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The forecasts or forward-looking statements are based on assumptions and may not materialize. The forecasts also are subject to revision.}

This Week: Companies Reporting Earnings

Tuesday: Walmart, Inc. (WMT), The Home Depot, Inc. (HD).

Wednesday: Cisco Systems, Inc. (CSCO), Target Corporation (TGT), Lowe’s Companies, Inc. (LOW), The TJX Companies, Inc. (TJX).

Thursday: Applied Materials, Inc. (AMAT), NetEase, Inc. (NTES).

Friday: Deere & Company (DE).

^{Source: Zacks, August 12, 2022
Companies mentioned are for informational purposes only. It should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of the securities. Investing involves risks, and investment decisions should be based on your own goals, time horizon, and tolerance for risk. The return and principal value of investments will fluctuate as market conditions change. When sold, investments may be worth more or less than their original cost. Companies may reschedule when they report earnings without notice.}

“You can’t destroy knowledge. You can stamp it under and burn it up and forbid it to be, but somewhere it will survive.”

– Leigh Brackett

Help Get Your Federal Withholding Correct With This Tool From the IRS

The IRS has a handy tool called the IRS Tax Withholding Estimator that can help taxpayers better understand their withholding. It’s essential to examine your federal withholding periodically to ensure you are comfortable with the amount of tax withheld.

Checking your withholding status may be a good idea to consider if you have experienced a change that may affect your tax status, such as:

• Going through a marriage or divorce
• Having or adopting a child
• Purchasing a new home
• Working two or more jobs at the same time
• Only working part of the year
• Claiming credits such as the child tax credit

* This information is not intended to be a substitute for specific, individualized tax advice. We suggest that you discuss your specific tax issues with a qualified tax professional.

Tip adapted from IRS.gov⁷

What is Sleep Hygiene?

We all want a better night’s sleep, and your sleep hygiene routine might impact the amount and quality of shut-eye you get. Sleep hygiene refers to your habits to get a good night’s sleep. The better your habits, the better your chances are of improving your sleep.

Here are some good sleep hygiene tips:

• Be consistent with your sleeping and waking times, even on weekends!
• Make sure your bedroom is dark, quiet, and of a comfortable temperature.
• Invest in blackout curtains or a white noise machine to drown out light and sound.
• Avoid electronic devices, including phones and TV, at least an hour before bed.
• If your appliances have a “night” mode, switch this on a few hours before bed to reduce blue light.
• Make sure to get enough exercise during the day, which may help you fall asleep faster.

Tip adapted from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention⁸

Trains travel from one town to another town all day, always on the same track, always going nonstop and at the same speed. The noon train took 80 minutes to complete the trip, but the 4 PM train took an hour and 20 minutes. Why?

Last week’s riddle: Just two U.S. states have capital cities whose names include the full name of the state. What states are they?  Riddle answer: Riddle answer: Indiana (Indianapolis) and Oklahoma (Oklahoma City).

Footnotes and Sources

^{1. The Wall Street Journal, August 12, 2022}

^{2. The Wall Street Journal, August 12, 2022}

^{3. The Wall Street Journal, August 12, 2022}

^{4. CNBC, August 10, 2022}

^{5. CNBC, August 10, 2022}

^{6. CNBC, August 11, 2022}

^{7.  IRS.gov, April 28, 2022}

^{8. CDC.gov, May 26, 2022}

^{Investing involves risks, and investment decisions should be based on your own goals, time horizon, and tolerance for risk. The return and principal value of investments will fluctuate as market conditions change. When sold, investments may be worth more or less than their original cost.}

^{The forecasts or forward-looking statements are based on assumptions, may not materialize, and are subject to revision without notice.}

^{The market indexes discussed are unmanaged, and generally, considered representative of their respective markets. Index performance is not indicative of the past performance of a particular investment. Indexes do not incur management fees, costs, and expenses. Individuals cannot directly invest in unmanaged indexes. Past performance does not guarantee future results.}

^{The Dow Jones Industrial Average is an unmanaged index that is generally considered representative of large-capitalization companies on the U.S. stock market. Nasdaq Composite is an index of the common stocks and similar securities listed on the NASDAQ stock market and is considered a broad indicator of the performance of technology and growth companies. The MSCI EAFE Index was created by Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) and serves as a benchmark of the performance of major international equity markets, as represented by 21 major MSCI indexes from Europe, Australia, and Southeast Asia. The S&P 500 Composite Index is an unmanaged group of securities that are considered to be representative of the stock market in general.}

^{U.S. Treasury Notes are guaranteed by the federal government as to the timely payment of principal and interest. However, if you sell a Treasury Note prior to maturity, it may be worth more or less than the original price paid. Fixed income investments are subject to various risks including changes in interest rates, credit quality, inflation risk, market valuations, prepayments, corporate events, tax ramifications and other factors.}

^{International investments carry additional risks, which include differences in financial reporting standards, currency exchange rates, political risks unique to a specific country, foreign taxes and regulations, and the potential for illiquid markets. These factors may result in greater share price volatility.}

^{Please consult your financial professional for additional information.}

^{This content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. This material was developed and produced by FMG Suite to provide information on a topic that may be of interest. FMG is not affiliated with the named representative, financial professional, Registered Investment Advisor, Broker-Dealer, nor state- or SEC-registered investment advisory firm. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and they should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security.}

^{Copyright 2022 FMG Suite.}