Harry Panosian, CFP RICP Chfc AIF

08/12/2026

The Federal Reserve held interest rates steady at its July meeting, but the decision was not unanimous.

The Federal Open Market Committee voted 9-3 to keep the federal funds rate in a range of 3.5% to 3.75%.

Three regional Fed presidents voted against the decision, preferring to raise rates by 0.25 percentage points instead.

The split reflects ongoing concern about inflation, which has remained above the Fed’s 2% target for more than five years.

Recent price pressures have been tied to several factors, including tariffs and higher energy costs connected to conflict in the Middle East.

The Fed’s statement noted that economic activity continues to expand at a solid pace, while job growth has kept pace with workforce growth, and unemployment has changed little.

For households and businesses, the decision is a reminder that interest rates remain closely tied to inflation, borrowing costs, employment, energy prices, and the broader economic outlook.


Source: https://www.cnbc.com/2026/07/29/fed-rate-decision-july-2026.html

08/07/2026

Markets navigated mixed signals in July. Inflation eased, tech faced pressure, and energy surged. Meanwhile, Americans are planning record travel spending in 2026: \$1.37 trillion. What's shaping your household budget this summer?

Stocks were mixed in July as investors navigated a cross-current of news on the outlook for AI spending and Q2 corporate reports.

08/03/2026

Federal Reserve officials were divided on where interest rates could go next, according to minutes from the June meeting.

At that meeting, the Fed voted unanimously to keep its benchmark interest rate in the 3.5% to 3.75% range.

The minutes show that some officials saw a case for lower rates if inflation eases, while others saw a case for higher rates if price pressures remain elevated.

Inflation was a major part of the discussion. Officials noted that tariffs, energy prices, and supply disruptions tied to the Strait of Hormuz could keep inflation elevated in the near term.

They also discussed how demand for artificial intelligence infrastructure could put upward pressure on prices for technology products and electricity.

For households and businesses, the broader takeaway is that interest rate decisions remain closely tied to incoming economic data. Inflation, energy costs, employment, and market conditions can all influence how policymakers approach future rate moves.


Source: https://www.cnbc.com/2026/07/08/fed-minutes-june-2026-.html

08/03/2026

Corebridge Financial today announced the addition of Protected Growth Benefit and preset allocation options to select versions of The Power Series of Index A...

07/21/2026

07/08/2026

Markets posted solid second-quarter gains as investors responded to upbeat economic reports, continued diplomatic efforts in the Middle East, and strong first-quarter corporate numbers. The S&P 500 rose 14.87%, the Nasdaq gained 21.41%, and the Dow picked up 12.90%, while Canada’s S&P/TSX Composite added 6.37%. Looking ahead, markets may continue to react to Middle East updates, oil prices, inflation trends, and the pace of global commerce through the Strait of Hormuz. From U.S. home price growth to Canadian housing forecasts, this quarter’s by-the-numbers highlights the data behind one of North America’s most closely watched markets.

Stocks saw solid gains in the second quarter, riding a wave of enthusiasm over upbeat economic reports, ongoing diplomatic efforts in the Middle East, and strong first-quarter corporate numbers.

07/08/2026

Thinking about retirement? You're not alone—and the numbers might give you something to think about.

From how much people rely on Social Security to what retirees actually spend, these stats highlight why it’s important to look at the full picture. It’s not about having every answer—it’s about starting a conversation that helps you feel more confident about what’s ahead.

📌 Save this post for later
📩 Share it with someone who’s thinking about their future
💬 Questions? I’m always here to talk things through

07/04/2026

As an immigrant to the United States, I have always viewed America not simply as a place, but as an opportunity.

This country gave me the ability to work hard, build a career, serve clients, support my family, and pursue goals that may not have been possible elsewhere. America is not perfect, but its founding ideals—freedom, opportunity, individual responsibility, and the ability to build a better future—remain extraordinary.

Today, as we celebrate America’s 250th birthday, I am grateful for the people who built this nation, defended its freedoms, and continue working to make it stronger for the next generation.

To me, the American Dream is still real. It requires effort, resilience, faith, and a willingness to contribute—but it remains available to those willing to pursue it.

Happy 250th Birthday, America.

Thank you for the opportunity, the freedom, and the privilege of calling this country home.