Doug English Provides December 2024 Market Insights: Portfolio Gains and Election Insight
As we near year-end, Doug English from ACT Advisors shares an optimistic update on November’s strong portfolio performance and insights on what’s ahead. ACT Advisors, a fee-only fiduciary firm, is dedicated to guiding clients through an evolving market landscape with proactive strategies and stability.
November 2024: A Month to Remember
The market’s performance in November was undeniably remarkable. The S&P 500 surged by approximately 5.75%, with other indexes achieving even higher gains. In the bond market, returns rose by about 1% for the month. Doug noted, “Our strategies really outperformed, with our bond positions moving up about 2% and our stock positions moving up 6% or more.”
This strategic outperformance resulted in strong portfolio returns across the risk spectrum:
- Conservative Portfolios: With a heavier allocation to bonds, these portfolios saw returns of approximately 3.5%.
- Aggressive Portfolios: Heavily weighted in stocks, these accounts realized gains as high as 6.5%, driven by robust direct indexing strategies.
Strategic Adjustments: December Rotations
Looking forward into December, ACT Advisors is making careful adjustments to its stock rotation strategies. The QQQ technology index is transitioning into the mid-cap stock index, reflecting a thoughtful approach to capturing emerging opportunities while maintaining a balanced risk profile. Bond investments will remain consistent, providing stability amid evolving market conditions.
Year-End Financial Planning Checklist
As the year comes to a close, December presents a critical opportunity for clients to address key financial tasks and set the stage for success in 2025. Doug highlighted several important priorities for clients:
- Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs): If you have not yet completed your RMDs, particularly those earmarked for charitable donations or advanced strategies, now is the time to act.
- Retirement Plan Contributions: Ensure all contributions for 2024 are finalized before the deadline.
- Qualified Plan Deferrals for 2025: If applicable, sign up for deferrals into qualified plans to maximize tax advantages and retirement savings.
- Long-Term Financial Planning: December is a perfect time to align your financial strategies with your personal goals. Whether you’re revisiting your investment portfolio, tax planning, or thinking about long-term legacy strategies, proactive planning can set a strong foundation for the new year.
At ACT Advisors, we encourage clients to embrace this season as an opportunity to reflect and prepare. We’re here to guide you through these essential year-end tasks and help ensure your financial plan remains aligned with your vision for the future.
Setting the Stage for a Successful 2025
Reflecting on 2024’s success and looking ahead to the new year, Doug English expressed his gratitude: “We want you to have a tremendously successful 2025, just like you did in 2024.”
With a proven track record of helping clients navigate market opportunities and financial complexities, ACT Advisors remains committed to empowering clients to work towards their personal and financial aspirations.
If you have any questions or need assistance with year-end planning, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team. Visit ACT Advisors or contact the team for guidance on your financial journey.
Doug English is the founder of ACT Advisors, a fee-only fiduciary firm with offices in Asheville, NC, and Charleston, SC, serving clients nationwide. Guided by Doug’s deep expertise and proactive approach, ACT Advisors helps clients make informed financial decisions, prioritize wealth protection, and confidently navigate market complexities. As dedicated advisors and advocates, the ACT Advisors team brings an unwavering commitment to transparency, personalized planning, and empowering clients at every stage of their financial journey.