Unsettling News
After the Dow Industrials and S&P 500 index climbed to new record highs to begin the week, stocks pulled back amid weaker-than-expected retail sales, festering concerns about the Delta variant, and slowing growth in China.
The stock market retreat accelerated mid-week with the release of the FOMC (Federal Open Market Committee) meeting minutes, which signaled that Fed officials may be ready to begin reducing its monthly bond purchases before the end of the year. Stocks managed to stabilize on Friday, paring some of the week’s losses. Consumer staples, health care, real estate, and utilities were the top-performing groups.4
Taper by Year End?
Two weeks ago, multiple regional Federal Reserve Bank presidents suggested that the economy was strong enough to justify tapering the Fed’s monthly bond purchases.
Last week, that chorus grew a bit louder with the release of minutes from July’s FOMC (Federal Open Market Committee) meeting. The precise timing was left undecided, with some officials believing it should begin before year-end, while others thought waiting until the start of the new year was the better choice.5
This Week: Key Economic Data
Monday: Existing Home Sales. PMI (Purchasing Managers’ Index) Composite Flash.
Tuesday: New Home Sales.
Wednesday: Durable Goods Orders.
Thursday: Jobless Claims. Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
Friday: Consumer Sentiment.
Source: Econoday, August 20, 2021 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: JD.com, Inc. (JD), Palo Alto Networks, Inc. (PANW).
Tuesday: Best Buy Co. (BBY), Intuit, Inc. (INTU).
Wednesday: Salesforce.com (CRM), Ulta Beauty, Inc. (ULTA), Autodesk, Inc. (ADSK).
Thursday: Marvell Technology, Inc. (MRVL), Workday, Inc. (WDAY), Dollar Tree (DLTR), Dell Technologies (DELL), VMware, Inc. (VMW), Peloton Interactive, Inc. (PTON).
Source: Zacks, August 20, 2021 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.
Food For Thought
“Every man is working out his destiny in his own way
and nobody can be of any help
except by being kind, generous, and patient.”
– Henry Miller
Tax Tip
Start a New Business Off on the Right Foot
Starting a new business? There are some important tax tips to know to set yourself up for success. Here are some tips that the IRS shares for new business owners:
Choose the right business structure: The form of business determines which income tax return a business taxpayer needs to file. The most common business structures are a sole proprietorship, a partnership, a corporation, an S corporation, and an LLC.
Apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN): An EIN is used to identify a business. Most businesses need an EIN.
* 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
Healthy Living Tip
Summer Skincare Tips
The first, and most important, tip is to always wear sunscreen, even if you're not spending a lot of time out in the sun. Some skincare products, including makeup, have sunscreen built-in, but you should consider using a moisturizer with at least SPF 30 for an extra level of protection.
Another good summer skincare tip is to lighten up your skincare routine. In the summer, you're likely going to be sweating, swimming, and spending time outside so you might not need as much makeup or products as you do in the winter.
Tip adapted from Allure7
Weekly Riddle
Aaron is the brother of Bob.
Bob is the brother of Cody.
Cody is the father of Dan.
So how is Dan related to Aaron?
Last week’s riddle: What three positive numbers
give the same answer when
multiplied or added together?
Answer: 1,2, and 3.
Photo of the Week
Two Atlantic Puffins interacting in Newfoundland, Canada.
