Mark Bates

Tax Planning Guide

by

Whether you do your own taxes the old fashioned way (paper), use TurboTax, or rely on a competent CPA like Bill Lupone, the attached link to the tax guide from the American Association of Independent Investors is a must read.  This is a guide for the 2014-2015 tax season.  Not terribly long but it covers the significant bases. read more

OTM Market Update – December 6 – still buying

by
  • The S&P large cap index gained 0.4% last week, rising to 2075.37.
  • The Russell 2000 small cap index rose 0.8% last week to 1182.43.
  • Long Bonds (TLT) lost 1.1% last week to 121.09.
  • Asset Allocation Model: unchanged. 52% Stocks, 27% Bonds, 20% Optional.

As has been true the past four weeks, the S&P technical model says BUY in all periods.  The month of December is also traditionally a good month for the market.

The broad market indexes, as well as long term bonds, are BUY in the technical model.  A 4% correction in the S&P would not presently violate any trend lines, so don’t be surprised (and don’t panic) if you see a bit of volatility and some profit taking before the end of December. read more

OTM Market Update – November 30 – BUY all around week #3

by
  • The S&P gained 0.2% last week, rising to 2067.56.
  • The Russell 2000 rose 0.1% last week to 1173.23.
  • Long Bonds (TLT) rose 2.0% last week to 122.49.
  • Asset Allocation Model: unchanged. 52% Stocks, 27% Bonds, 20% Optional.

As has been true the past three weeks, the S&P technical model says BUY in all periods.  The small cap Russell 2000 has now flashed BUY.  Overall market performance across the board is “in gear” with a rising market.  The Asset Allocation model remains bullish, with stock allocation at 52%.  As the charts below indicate, now is generally a good time to enter the market with wise buys. read more

OTM Market Update November 22 – BUY all around

by
  • The S&P gained 1.2% last week, rising to 2063.50.
  • The Russell 2000 lost 0.1% last week, falling to 1172.42.
  • Long Bonds (TLT) rose 0.5% last week, rising to 120.10.
  • Asset Allocation Model:  52% Stocks, 27% Bonds, 20% Optional.

As has been true the past two weeks, the S&P technical model says BUY in all periods.  The small cap Russell 2000 has now flashed BUY.  Overall market performance across the board is “in gear” with a rising market.  The Asset Allocation model is slightly even more bullish, with stock allocation rising to 52%.  As the charts below indicate, now is generally a good time to enter the market with wise buys. read more