The index of leading economic indicators was released this morning, showing economic growth for four months in a row. What does this mean for the 2014 forecast? Bloomberg covers the story. Also in today’s news, the New York Stock Exchange has released new data for margin debt, which is often used as an indicator of investor sentiment. You can see which way the market is trending with the help of Doug Short’s latest charts on investor credit. If you have aging parents, this may be a good time to start a conversation with them about their future needs and wishes. Our final article explains why it’s best to ask certain questions while your parents are still relatively healthy and active.
Leading Economic Indicator For U.S. Increased .02% In October– The Conference Board’s gauge of the economic outlook for the next three to six months increased 0.2 percent last month. This is positive news for the markets and economy. http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2013-11-27/leading-economic-indicators-index-in-u-s-rose-0-2-in-november.html
NYSE Margin Debt Hits Another Interim High– These charts by Doug Short show the correlation between margin interest and the S&P 500. Market analysts are keeping a close eye on margin interest as it continues to grow. In the past, the growth in margin interest has peaked a few months before the market peaked.
http://advisorperspectives.com/dshort/updates/NYSE-Margin-Debt-and-the-SPX.php
Important Questions To Ask Aging Parents– If you’re the adult child of aging parents, it’s important to open up a conversation about their future needs and wishes. The best time to do so is when your parents are relatively healthy and active. Otherwise, you may find yourself making critical decisions on their behalf in the midst of a crisis–without a road map. http://www.360financialliteracy.org/Topics/Family-Financial-Planning/Caring-for-Aging-Parents/Important-Questions-to-Ask-Aging-Parents
We hope you have a happy Thanksgiving.
John R. Day, Bill Ennis, Stephanie Davidson and Matt Heller