Welcome to 2019

Happy New Year everyone! Let’s take a look back on 2018 and then consider what 2019 holds for investors. 2018 kept investors on the edge of their seats. Trade wars, natural disasters, geopolitical unrest and U.S political division all kept us wondering how each one would affect the economy. In 2018, volatility returned to the U.S. equity markets. During the year, many indexes set new highs. However, after a very tough fourth quarter, equity markets finished on a sour note for investors.

As we enter 2019, we cannot predict what exactly may occur but the mantra of “proceed with caution” is the battle cry among many experts. One thing we do know for sure – investors are filing a new tax form. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act made significant changes to the tax code and this year you will want to pay special attention to strategies that can help minimize your tax situation. As we like to say, “It’s not what you make, but what you keep that counts!” In addition to the tax reform changes, rising interest rates, stock market volatility and potential trade wars could continue to provide disruption for investors.

Having a solid foundation, design and strategy is critical to the outcome of your financial plans. Keeping your plan up-to-date is always wise and will be especially integral for 2019. This is a good time to review and discuss your plans with a qualified financial advisor. A financial advisor can help determine if you’re still on track to meet your long-term objectives, confirm your time horizons and your risk tolerance.

Have a financial question? Please submit them to julia.carlson@lpl.com and I am happy to answer them.

_{Information in this material is for general information only and not intended as investment, tax or legal advice. Please consult the appropriate professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation prior to making any financial decision.}

_{Email me your questions at financial.feedom@lpl.com or call 541-574-6464. You can also post your questions on our Facebook page.}