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The bull market continues to defy the skeptics and is now nearing a major milestone. On August 22, 2018, this bull market can overtake the bull market of the 1990s as the longest ever. From tariffs to trade wars to inflation to a flattening yield curve to a global economic slowdown, the headlines continue to cast doubt on the sustainability of this economic cycle and bull market. Although we see several potential stumbling blocks, we continue to believe this economy and stock market rally have plenty of fuel left in the tank.

When people reach their 50s, it's not uncommon for them to realize that retirement — or whatever they choose to call the phase of life that comes after full-time work — is no longer such a distant concept. . .

You’re probably wondering what in the world I’m talking about. The items above are just four of the five thousand products potentially affected by the trade war between the U.S. and China.1 Meat, vegetables, auto parts, construction materials, chemicals. . .

The U.S. economy grew 4.1% in the second quarter to post its strongest quarter since the third quarter of 2014 and fifth strongest quarter of the expansion. . .

The second quarter of 2018 is now officially closed, and with July 4th just past, it’s safe to say the summer season is in full swing. While for many of us the main features of July are cookouts and trips to the beach, this month also holds a special place in the hearts of cycling fans worldwide, as it brings the sport’s most famous race, the Tour de France. For those that are unfamiliar with the event, the Tour de France is one of cycling’s three Grand Tours. Each July, 22 teams comprised of nearly 200 of the best cyclists in the world, compete in the race, which spans 23 days and covers more than 2,000 miles. With 23 days of televised coverage, you’re likely to catch at least one of the various stages of the race, and if you do, you’ll notice that riders tend to pack together in groups the announcers call the “peloton.” Winners will pull ahead of the peloton, while riders who struggle with the grueling pace or experience equipment issues will lag behind.

The current environment looks favorable for strong earnings and stock gains. We do expect volatility, but steady economic growth provides a strong backdrop and the potential for opportunity.