Posts by Sound Planning Group Team
Market Update | July 6th, 2026
Markets started the second half of the year on a strong note as investors welcomed soft June employment data, easing concerns over additional Federal Reserve rate hikes. Economic data remained broadly constructive, with both the manufacturing and services sectors continuing to expand and consumer confidence showing modest improvement.
Read MoreMarket Update | June 22, 2026
Last week was defined by a combination of central bank developments, solid economic data, and easing geopolitical tensions. The Federal Reserve adopted a more inflation-focused tone under new Chair Kevin Warsh, while retail sales and leading economic indicators pointed to a stable economy. Combined with the announcement of an interim U.S.-Iran peace agreement, the week’s developments helped support investor sentiment and push major equity indexes higher.
Read MoreHow to Choose the Right Financial Advisor
Choosing a financial advisor is one of the most important decisions you can make—especially if you’re approaching retirement, navigating a career transition, or simply trying to feel more confident about your long-term financial future.
Read MoreHow To Prepare for a Secure Retirement
Individuals and couples who want a thoughtful, well organized approach to retirement should be preparing for retirement before they actually retire.
Read MoreTop Financial Planning Mistakes Families Should Avoid
Over time, we have seen a few common financial planning mistakes that can create unnecessary stress or delay retirement. Below are the top financial planning mistakes Kirkland families should avoid.
Read MoreHow to Transition from Work to Retirement
For many people, retirement planning focuses heavily on reaching a savings goal, but the most successful transitions happen when retirees prepare for both the financial and lifestyle realities of leaving the workforce.
Read MoreMarket Update – February 23rd, 2026
Stocks advanced last week despite softer fourth quarter GDP, firm inflation data, and a Supreme Court ruling striking down several executive branch-imposed tariffs, with major indexes finishing the week higher.
Read MoreMarket Update – February 17th, 2026
Stocks declined last week as investors rotated out of risk-on sectors and into defensives, with utilities and real estate leading while financials and technology lagged.
Read MoreMarket Update – February 9, 2026
Financial Markets Markets had a risk-off week as investors rotated out of technology and into more defensive sectors, with a partial recovery on Friday. Value stocks outperformed, led by a…
Read MoreMarket Update – January 26th, 2026
Last week’s economic releases showed stable PCE inflation, continued growth in household spending, and a gradual decline in saving rates, while the Leading Economic Index and broader recession indicators shifted toward a more neutral stance.
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