Group 1 - There are growing fears of a potential recession due to various economic indicators [1] - The job market is cooling at a rapid pace, indicating a slowdown in employment opportunities [1] - Consumer spending is softening, suggesting a decrease in economic activity and consumer confidence [1] - The ongoing trade war is contributing to higher economic uncertainty [1]

Core Insights - There are increasing concerns about a potential recession [1] - The job market is experiencing a rapid cooling [1] - Consumer spending is showing signs of softening [1] - The ongoing trade war is contributing to economic challenges [1]

Core Viewpoint - The article emphasizes the importance of investing in a broad market ETF, specifically the Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF, as a strategy to protect portfolios amid market uncertainty and potential recession concerns [1][2]. Group 1: Market Sentiment - Approximately 80% of U.S. adults express some concern about a recession, while over 44% of investors remain optimistic about the stock market's performance in the next six months [1]. - The Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF is highlighted as a safe investment option during uncertain times [2]. Group 2: Investment Strategy - Investors are encouraged to invest in solid stocks rather than waiting out market volatility, as this can help build wealth [2]. - A broad market ETF like the Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF offers extensive diversification, which can mitigate risk during market downturns [5]. Group 3: ETF Characteristics - The Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF includes 3,531 stocks across various industries, providing a comprehensive representation of the market [4]. - The ETF has a strong historical performance, averaging a return of 9.25% per year since its inception in 2001, with a hypothetical $5,000 investment growing to nearly $30,000 today [7]. Group 4: Advantages and Disadvantages - Advantages of the Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF include ultimate diversification, a flawless track record of recovering from market downturns, and reduced short-term volatility compared to more focused funds [5][6]. - A notable downside is that it may yield lower returns compared to growth-focused ETFs, which could be a trade-off for investors prioritizing safety [8][9]. Group 5: Long-term Considerations - The article suggests that while no investment is guaranteed, broad-market funds like the Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF are likely to rebound after downturns and experience long-term growth [6]. - Investors must weigh their risk tolerance and investment goals when choosing between stability and higher growth potential [12].

Our next guest says today's cut is an insurance cut against a weakening labor market. Let's bring in Claudia Som, chief economist at New Century Adviserss, creator of the SOM rule. Claudia, it's great to see you.Let me just set this up a little bit because we had Jason Ferman earlier saying we shouldn't cut because of inflation and because of the deficit. Those pressures are still too high. Um, obviously others are are more doubbish.They think that we can and should. Explain where you come down on this. >> ...

Market Outlook - Some analysts express skepticism about the S&P 500's ability to achieve a third consecutive year of 20% returns, with Wells Fargo's Scott Wren projecting a target of 6,800 for 2025, indicating a return closer to 14% [1] - Wells Fargo has set a target of 6,600 for the S&P 500 in 2025, suggesting an approximate 8% upside from current levels [5] - The S&P 500 has experienced a 28.3% gain since its late 2021 peak, factoring in the 2022 bear market [5] Investor Sentiment - As 2026 approaches, there is a growing sense of unease among investors, with some fearing an impending recession, leading to extreme measures such as converting a significant portion of retirement funds into cash [2] - Emotional decision-making in late-cycle environments can lead to significant consequences, emphasizing the importance of discipline in investment strategies [4] Historical Context - The recent market performance has been likened to the late 1990s, with a notable 44% increase since January 1, 2022, raising concerns about sustainability and potential corrections [6][7] - Legendary investors, including Warren Buffett, have shown caution, with Berkshire Hathaway recently selling tech shares and holding $360 billion in government T-bills [7]

RT blockgraze (@blockgraze)@blknoiz06 @plur_daddy rolling recession limits inflationK shape market good for risk ...

The Q4 CFO survey, it's back and we're asking the biggest corporate financial decision makers about their business, the economy, and how they're using artificial intelligence. Every quarter, we ask about risk. CFOs say currently the biggest risk to their business, it's consumer demand.41% with that answer tied for second would be Fed policy and overregulation, both at right around 14%. Still, CFOs seem confident on the strength of the economy with more than half saying the US will not experience a recession ...

Tom Lee has had a front row seat to more than a fair share of stock market pops and drops. Lee, a veteran Wall Street analyst who has tracked the stock market since the 1990s, is the founder of Fundstrat, a respected equity research firm that advises money managers and high-net worth investors. His extensive stock market experience means he has navigated the internet boom and bust, the Great Recession, the Covid pandemic, and 2022's bear market. Those experiences taught him valuable investing insights abo ...

Financial Planning - Offers a 5-step plan to protect finances from a recession [1] - Suggests budgeting smarter [1] - Recommends building savings [1] - Advocates diversifying investments [1] Income & Banking - Encourages growing income [1] - Advises choosing the right bank [1]

Key Points More Americans are growing concerned about a potential recession in 2026. While it's impossible to know what's coming, now is a smart time to start preparing your portfolio. Sometimes, less is more when it comes to protecting your investments. 10 stocks we like better than Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF › This has been an unusual year for the stock market in many ways. After tumbling into correction territory earlier this year, the S&P 500 (SNPINDEX: ^GSPC) is now closing in on a new ...