Roger L. Merrill

Monthly Market Update

Market Update for the Month Ending February 28, 2021 Presented by Roger Merrill   Markets Rebound in February After a weak January, equity markets rebounded in February, despite some late-month volatility driven by a spike in U.S. interest rates. The S&P 500...

Investment Perspective: Fear of Missing Out (FOMO)

Fear of Missing Out (FOMO) With news and alerts constantly buzzing on our handheld devices, it is difficult to maintain a steady disposition in our investing. This outside noise can create a fear of missing out (FOMO). It is hard to ignore when others brag about their...

Investment Perspective: Items to Consider

Items to Consider   When uncertainty abounds, our natural instinct is to do something.  We want to make a change that will improve our situation.  In investing, this inclination to act can be problematic if done based on fear rather than reason.  Below, we've listed...

Investment Perspective: RMDs & QCDs

RMDs & QCDs (Donating Directly to Charity) The IRS requires taxpayers over age 70½ to take a Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) from their IRAs each year.  This forced IRA distribution adds ‘taxable income’ –thus increasing the amount of taxes you pay to Uncle...