Daniel B. Spickard, CLTC, Financial Senior Sales Consultant

Stocks surged in April, delivering their strongest monthly gains in five years as solid economic data, easing geopolitical tensions, and upbeat first-quarter earnings lifted investor sentiment. The Nasdaq climbed 15.29%, the S&P 500 rose 10.42%, and the Dow gained 7.14%, while Canada’s S&P/TSX Composite added 3.65%. With no Fed meeting in May, attention turns to remarks from Fed officials and how evolving economic data may shape expectations moving forward. From \$34.1 billion in U.S. spending to the popularity of Mother’s Day dining and gifts, this month’s By the Numbers highlights how families celebrate the occasion.

Quarterly Market Insights | April 2026 Quarterly Market Insights | April 2026 U.S. and Canadian Markets Stocks fell in the first quarter amid concerns that artificial intelligence (AI) could disrupt certain industries and geopolitical issues that unsettled investors. The Dow Jones Industrial Average lost 3.58 percent while the Standard &...

How much does it really cost to own a home? It may be more than you think. Read about the hidden costs of home ownership.

The hidden costs of homeownership How to factor a home purchase into your long-term financial strategy.

Many Americans are unprepared for an emergency. It's important to make sure you’re covered for things that could pop up unexpectedly

Why you should have an emergency fund An emergency fund can help you pay for unexpected financial emergencies. And having one in place can help ease stress

Hitting six figures used to feel like “making it.” But with rising costs and shifting priorities, many earners are finding that their money doesn’t go nearly as far as they expected. The six figure success story is changing — fast.

Why six figures might not mean what it used to Rising costs are making six figures less of a success benchmark. Learn why income alone might not tell the full story.

Do you know how long it may take for your investments to double in value?

The Rule of 72 Do you know how long it may take for your investments to double in value? The Rule of 72 is a quick way to figure it out.

This piece presents an overview of fundamental steps to consider when a loved one passes.

A Checklist for When a Spouse or Parent Passes An overview of some fundamental steps when a loved one passes.

How long will your retirement money last with regular withdrawals? Have you run the numbers?

A Look at Systematic Withdrawals This calculator may help you estimate how long funds may last given regular withdrawals.

A family-centered financial plan can help you:

✅ Prepare for college costs

✅ Plan for retirement (yours and your parents’)

✅ Protect loved ones with insurance

✅ Navigate estate planning and wealth transfer

Why financial planning should be a family affair Financial planning with your whole family can allow you to create, manage, and transfer wealth to benefit everyone

Contact me today to learn more

Key Considerations When Designing a Retirement Plan For many business owners today, retirement planning is important for both their own and their employees’ financial future