Client Letters - Barron Financial Group - Torrington, CT 860-489-0432

Client Letter 2018 Q4

Posted on October 1, 2018December 3, 2019 by Jim Thibault

Q3-2018 Market Results

In the third quarter of 2018 the U.S., as represented by the S&P 500 index, had another impressive showing of +7.71%. This builds on generally decent Q1 and Q2 returns for a YTD return of 10.56%. Global ex-U.S. investments didn’t fare as well at +0.70% for the quarter and -3.09% for the year. Breaking down further, developed international markets were up +1.35% for the quarter and -1.43% YTD. Emerging markets were disappointing at -1.10% for the quarter and -7.68% YTD. The U.S. bond market was up very slightly at +0.02% but down -1.60% YTD. Short-term treasuries were once again up at +0.49% for the quarter and +1.28% YTD.

Portfolio Thoughts

All portfolios had gains in the third quarter, due to strong gains from the U.S. and mild gains in International. Tactical portfolios maintained an underweight to International given the challenges that region has been experiencing. Emerging markets

Client Letter 2018 Q3

Posted on July 1, 2018December 3, 2019 by Jim Thibault

2018 Vacation

As we do each year, we want to advise all Portfolio Management clients about our upcoming vacation plans. This is a special year for Sandra and me as we celebrate our 20th wedding anniversary and have planned our vacation for two weeks instead of our normal one week. We will be out of the office from Friday, August 17 to Monday, September 3, 2018. We will be back in the office on Tuesday, September 4. During this time, we will have limited access to phone and email, but if you need us please call the office number and leave a message with John or on voicemail. We will do our best to respond in a timely manner. You can also call Fidelity with account related questions at 800-544-6666.

Q2-2018 Market Results

The markets were a mixed bag in the second quarter of 2018. Once again, the U.S., as represented by the S&P 500 index, took the lead with

Client Letter 2018 Q2

Posted on April 1, 2018December 3, 2019 by Jim Thibault

Q1-2018 Market Results

For the first time in nine consecutive quarters, the equity markets were down almost across the board in the first quarter of 2018. The S&P 500 was down -0.76% and global ex-U.S. stocks were down -1.33%. Only the emerging markets were positive for stocks last quarter, up +1.28%. Bonds were also down, with the Barclays index down -1.46%. Short-term treasuries were up slightly at +0.34%, probably a result of being viewed as a safe-haven destination. Not a terrible quarter by any means, but a significant reversal of the positive trend seen for over the last two years.

Portfolio Thoughts

The U.S. stock market took a breather in the first quarter from its strong, positive trend of the last two years. After all of the three U.S. markets (S&P 500, Dow Jones & NASDAQ) hit all-time highs on January 26, 2018,

Client Letter 2018 Q1

Posted on January 1, 2018December 3, 2019 by Jim Thibault

Annual Charitable Contribution

As in years past, in lieu of sending Holiday gifts to clients, Barron Financial Group has made a contribution to the Northwest Connecticut Community Foundation. Similar to previous years, we pledged $25 per client household for a total contribution of $2,150. For privacy purposes, client names will not be disclosed. From Sandra, John & and me, we hope you and your families had a terrific holiday season and that this new year brings happiness, health and prosperity.

Q4-2017 Market Results

The S&P 500 followed a consistent upward trend during the fourth quarter of 2017 finishing up