The Economy: Market participants are dealing with the uncertainty of a trade war between the US and China. According to the White House, last week they were very close to a deal when China backed out on agreed upon terms. The US hit back with an extra 25% tariff on $200 billion of Chinese goods on Friday. The US stock markets tanked. Monday saw China announce higher tariffs on $60 billion of American Goods, targeting the biggest US exporters. Let the trade games begin.
Food For Thought: Many folks realize that they can no longer rely on their 401ks and social security for their retirement income alone. Add to that many can expect to live 20-30 years after retirement. You need to consider options to maintain a lifetime of income. We are in a very low interest rate environment that looks to be around for quite some time. Keep in mind a fixed income annuity may be a way to diversity a traditional fixed income corporate bond portfolio or municipal bond portfolio. Give me a call to discuss the pros and cons.
Mixing Business with Pleasure: If like me, you want your flatware free of rust blemishes and water spots, here's a quick solution*:
1) fill a mixing bowl with a teaspoon of baking soda
2) drop in your flatware
3) cover the bowl with aluminum foil for ~2 minutes
4) remove and dry
*I read about this kitchen hack in the April 2019 Real Simple magazine, courtesy of Rael Petit, Beverage Director at the Williamsburg Hotel in Brooklyn NY.
- Deb