LIFESTYLE DRIVEN ADVICE
JUNE 2024

Summertime is in full swing across the country, with families embarking on beach vacations and summer festivals and events kicking off. At XML, we are delighted to update you on the latest company news, market updates, and new webinar offerings that could benefit you this season.

First, in market news, the S&P 500 and the NASDAQ seem to be following the current weather pattern as they continue to heat up, reaching new record highs. This marks their eighth positive week last week out of the past nine. As we approach the midpoint of 2024, information technology remains the top-performing sector with a year-to-date average return of nearly 29%, followed closely by communication services at 25%. Meanwhile, U.S. crude oil prices have seen a recent uptick, surpassing $80 per barrel; how this uptick will affect those aforementioned summer vacations is yet to be seen. The bond market also is yielding above inflation and has a healthy outlook for the next six months, especially if rates decline. Keep in mind while some markets are hot, others have cooled, and our goal at XML is to offer a diversified portfolio that considers your risk exposure. This becomes even more important as we look ahead at the potential for market uncertainty during the upcoming election season. (Source)

In company news, we are thrilled to introduce Ben Kollender, who joins our Fort Washington, PA office as a new associate. Learn more about Ben's role and background in the article below. In other news, construction is progressing smoothly at our new Virginia office, and we are excited to share photos of our latest developments below. Stay tuned for more updates as we expand our presence to better serve our clients in the Virginia region.

Last week, we had the pleasure of hosting Kitchie McBride, a Registered Social Security Analyst, on a webinar discussing "Understanding and Optimizing Social Security" alongside XML Senior Wealth Advisor Lauren O'Brien. Our next webinar is scheduled for July 9, featuring Jordan Jackson from JP Morgan in conversation with XML President Curtis Congdon. This mid-year market review promises to provide valuable insights into the market trends and developments of the past six months. 

While summer is a time for relaxation and travel, remember that the team at XML is always here for you. Whether you have questions about investment strategies, retirement planning, or navigating market fluctuations, we are ready to assist you every step of the way. Please do not hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or need further assistance. 

Have a safe and happy summer,

XML Financial Group
www.xmlfg.com

In The News

Divorce and Finance 101

Divorce is a common situation that many people will face in their lifetimes. Knowing what to do before, during, and after a divorce can set you up for success in the future and help you protect your assets. A recent article from US News lays out the steps to take. It's crucial to advocate for yourself throughout the process and take an active role in managing your finances post-divorce.

If you or someone you love is facing this situation, an XML financial advisor can assist. Reach out to your XML advisor or contact us here. 

XML Wealth Wisdom

Webinar Recording: Understanding and

Optimizing Social Security 

On June 20,  Lauren O'Brien (Senior Wealth Advisor) was joined by Kitchie McBride (Registered Social Security Analyst) for a detailed discussion about how understanding and maximizing these complex benefits can help ensure financial stability across different stages of your life. The recording of this event is now available on our website to watch at your leisure and you can also request assistance with your social security planning by clicking the link below. 

Upcoming Webinar: Mid-Year Market Review 

Join Jordan Jackson, Executive Director, and Global Market Strategist on the J.P. Morgan Asset Management Global Market Insights Strategy Team, and Curtis Congdon CFP®, CRPC® President at XML Financial Group on Tuesday, July 9 at 11:00 AM to discuss analysis of the market trends, challenges that have shaped the first half of the year, and what we can expect in the coming months.   

XML Team News

Introducing Ben Kollender

Ben joined XML Financial Group after gaining experience as a Financial Services Professional at MassMutual Greater Philadelphia. Before this role, he interned at both MassMutual Greater Philadelphia and Samson Wealth Management Group, a division of XML Financial Group. Ben graduated from Muhlenberg College with dual majors in Finance and Business Administration, focusing on management. Read more about Ben here.

New Virginia Office

We love to see our new home in Virginia taking shape! Construction at WillowWood Plaza II, 10306 Eaton Place, Suite 230 in Fairfax, Virginia is well under way. We are optimistic that we can begin welcoming clients into this new space in September and look forward to an open house client event this fall. Stay tuned for more information in the coming months! 

This communication is for information and educational purposes only. This is not a recommendation for the sale or investment in any product or strategy nor should it be perceived as individual advice. Information presented has been prepared from sources believed to be reliable but is not guaranteed and does not represent all available data necessary for making investment decisions. Economic and market forecasts presented herein reflect a series of assumptions and judgments as of the date of this presentation and are subject to change without notice. Forecasts do not consider the specific investment objectives, restrictions, tax and financial situation or other needs of an individual. Actual data will vary and may not be reflected here. Accordingly, these forecasts should be viewed as merely representative of a broad range of possible outcomes. The opinion expressed by this individual is based on facts and circumstances known at this time, is subject to change and does not reflect the opinions of all financial professionals of XML.