In recent years, U.S. stocks have outperformed non-U.S. stocks, leaving some investors to prefer to stick close to home with their investments. However, as 2019 approaches, some investors have again turned their attention toward the role that global diversification plays in their portfolios.

With year-end quickly approaching, a few weeks remain to implement strategies that could provide meaningful tax savings. Here are six planning opportunities to consider before Dec. 31.

The uncertainty over trade disputes between the U.S. and China has been reflected in recent market activity. The markets have been up and down as investor optimism faded over the recently struck 90-day tariff truce between the countries. Investors worried about their portfolios should put the recent market declines in historical context.

Investors looking to invest in an opportunity zone in Indiana have a new online portal to connect them to communities around the state. However, it is imperative investors do not let the tax benefit of investing in an opportunity zone lead to a poor investment decision.

Since the Great Recession, global markets have experienced an unprecedented positive run, with an end to the good times and a recession almost inevitable. However, it’s not necessarily around the corner. How can you tell if a recession is near?

Historically, emerging markets have shown more volatility than developed markets, something we expect to continue. We believe, however, investors who remain in emerging markets should be compensated for this risk over time as current valuations are more attractive as compared to developed markets.

The IRS recently released the cost-of-living adjustments for qualified retirement plans for the 2019 tax year. We’ve created a chart that provides a brief overview of the changes as compared to the current tax year and is helpful as you plan your retirement contributions for next year.

On Wednesday, October 24th, equities pulled back sharply, as mounting concerns over global growth, corporate earnings, and rising rates left global equities down nearly 3%. The S&P 500 Index has now fallen in 13 of the past 15 trading sessions. October’s market volatility has brought equity indices down nearly 10% — or more — from recent highs. Because of last year’s low volatility, the market fluctuations in 2018 have seemed extreme.  

October marks the fifth anniversary of Fi3 Financial Advisors, and we want to thank our valued clients, colleagues and friends for their support on our journey. We are proud of the work our firm has provided to clients over the past five years and the relationships we have developed.

As of the close of the third quarter 2018, the S&P 500 index (U.S. Large Cap equities) continued to show dominance over international equity peers. In fact, over the past 10 years, the S&P 500 index has outperformed the MSCI ACWI ex USA index (international equities) in 70% of the calendar years and by 6.2% annualized, the widest margin in the last 20 years.

This performance has caused investors to rightly ask, will the U.S. equity freight train ever stop? History may provide investors some answers.