September 1, 2025

August 2025 Returns and Asset Performance

Major Asset Classes August 2025 Performance Comparison Introduction August returns mark the fourth straight month of consecutive gains, resulting in high valuations and leaving prices vulnerable to drawdowns, as seen on the last day of the month.  The S&P 500 index (+1.9%) saw solid corporate earnings and increased optimism surrounding […]
August 2, 2025

July 2025 Returns and Asset Performance

Major Asset Classes July 2025 Performance Comparison Introduction July returns for the S&P 500 index (+2.2%) maintained upward momentum for the third month in a row despite ongoing tariff tensions and economic uncertainty. A key driver was second quarter earnings which grew 10.3% on an annual basis versus pre-report estimates […]
July 4, 2025

June 2025 Returns and Asset Performance

Major Asset Classes June 2025 Performance Comparison Introduction June returns for the S&P 500 (+5.0%) were solid despite volatility from trade tensions, inflation concerns, and geopolitical risks.  The last day of the quarter also saw a new all-time high, fueled by strong earnings from big tech and optimism from potential […]
May 3, 2025

April 2025 Returns and Asset Performance

Major Asset Classes April 2025 Performance Comparison Introduction April returns tell a tale of two markets. Early in the month, a severe market drawdown was triggered by tariff turmoil. Notably, the second half of the month had a relief rally given reduced geopolitical tension and improving corporate earnings. The S&P500 […]
March 2, 2025

February 2025 Returns and Asset Performance

Major Asset Classes February 2025 Performance Comparison Introduction February returns for the S&P 500 index (-1.4%) saw two all-time highs followed by sell-off at month-end tied. The market turned on new fiscal tightening, pending tariffs, consumer confidence declines, and forward projections of lower GDP and earnings growth. A shift in […]
February 2, 2025

January 2025 Returns and Asset Performance

Major Asset Classes January 2025 Performance Comparison Introduction January returns for the S&P 500 index (+2.7%) exactly offset the losses seen in December. It was a rollercoaster month with another all-time high for the S&P 500 index, followed by sharp drops triggered by a new IA model from China and […]
February 1, 2024

Download – Decrypting Crypto

‘Decrypting Crypto’ was a course sponsored by the U0fM OLLI center. I was one of three teachers invited to present.  The course was taught February 1 and 8, 2024. My role was to compare digital currencies to other mediums of exchange and stores of value.  I presented the basic steps […]