Clayton Wealth Partners

Our July market perspective dives into the latest trends in inflation and the potential for a Fed rate cut. With annual inflation down to 3% and core CPI showing continued improvement, we explore what this means for future economic policy. Learn how seasonal market volatility, reflected in the rising VIX, could shape the financial landscape this summer. Stay informed about the historically volatile months ahead and how they might impact market behavior.

In the latest episode of the "Investing in Good™" podcast, Elina Alterman from the Lawrence Humane Society discusses the Crisis Pet Retention program. Initiated in October 2020 with $60,000 in COVID relief funds, this program aims to keep pets and their owners together during crises by providing essential support such as pet food and supplies. Born out of the pandemic, the program helps prevent the trauma of pet surrender due to financial hardships. It continues to support people on fixed incomes, including seniors and those on social security or disability, as well as individuals employed but not earning a living wage. In 2023 alone, the pet pantry distributed nearly 103,000 pounds of pet food. Listen now to the "Investing in Good™" podcast, and don't forget to subscribe! https://bit.ly/3Y1igO1

After several attempts, the Kansas Legislature passed (and the governor signed) a bill to reduce state taxes by $1.2 billion over three years. Pieces of this bill address taxes other than income taxes, but the income tax portion is significant. As is the case with tax bills, a lot of pieces are involved, but we want to highlight some of the major changes, such as tax bracket changes, exemption/deduction amount changes, exemption of Social Security benefits, and dependent care credits.

A new episode of the "Investing in Good™" podcast is out! In this episode, we feature Elina Alterman, Director of Development and Communications at the Lawrence Humane Society. She discusses her journey and the intersection of human and animal welfare through the impactful programs they offer. Listen now to the "Investing in Good™" podcast and don't forget to subscribe!

Why did the Federal Reserve shift to expecting only one rate cut in 2024 instead of three? We explore the cautious stance on inflation and the fluid economic conditions driving this decision.

If you’re nearing 65, choosing between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage can be tough. Medicare Advantage offers low premiums and extras like dental and vision coverage but limits your provider network and may have higher costs for serious conditions. Original Medicare provides broader provider access and more predictable costs. In this article, we take a look at both.

Last week, Clayton Wealth Partners proudly celebrated 40 years of serving fellow Kansans with a successful open house event at our Topeka office. The event featured a ceremonial ribbon cutting with the Greater Topeka Partnership and brought together clients, community members, and business partners. #Topeka

In the latest episode of the "Investing in Good™" podcast, Jane Blocher, Executive Director of the American Red Cross of Greater Kansas, shares how the organization mobilizes thousands of volunteers when disaster strikes. Listen now to the "Investing in Good™" podcast, and don't forget to subscribe! https://bit.ly/4bRWiki

A new episode of the "Investing in Good™" podcast is out! In this episode, Jane Blocher, the Executive Director of the American Red Cross of Greater Kansas, shares her unexpected path to joining the Red Cross. Jane explains the Red Cross's mission and operations, emphasizing their ability to mobilize volunteers and provide rapid disaster response. She highlights the organization's four core services: disaster preparedness, blood collection, training, and support for the armed forces. Jane also discusses the crucial role of volunteers and donors, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on volunteer numbers, and ongoing initiatives such as the diversification of the blood supply and free smoke alarm installations. Listen now to the "Investing in Good™" podcast and don't forget to subscribe!

Initial jobless claims, typically a key economic indicator, aren't aligning with other worrisome employment trends. Here are some possible reasons for this discrepancy and what a rise in claims could mean for the economy.