TCM BLOG

Stocks swung from a midterm-election rally to the worst day for U.S. stocks since April 2025, and the Standard & Poor’s 500 Index fell 2.68% for the week as the Nasdaq Composite entered a correction. The Nasdaq has now declined four weeks in a row, as investors worried that a Democratic Congress could restrict AI data-center construction. AI-related stocks fell more than the broader market since early September, according to Macro Roundup’s analysis of Michael Cembalest’s AI universe. October payrolls rose by 165,000 and the unemployment rate edged down to 4.1%, while the Federal Reserve held rates at 3.75% to 4.00% with two dissents favoring a hike. This week brings October inflation data on Tuesday and Cisco earnings on Thursday, and U.S. stock markets are open on Veterans Day.

October was a mixed month for U.S. markets. The S&P 500 slipped 0.93 percent and the Nasdaq Composite fell 5.30 percent as technology stocks came under pressure, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 1.70 percent. As November begins, inflation and developments in artificial intelligence remain important stories to watch. This month's By the Numbers looks at charitable generosity and GivingTuesday as the giving season approaches. From market performance to seasonal giving, there's plenty to explore in this month's Monthly Market Insights.

Choosing a financial advisor starts with understanding how that advisor is paid, because compensation can shape the recommendations you receive. This post explains the differences between fee-only, commission-based and fee-based advisors. It also covers what “fiduciary” means and the questions to ask before you hire anyone. Along the way, you’ll see how TCM Wealth Advisors in Fairlawn, Ohio, is compensated only by its clients.

Stocks fell last week as a late-week tech selloff erased early gains, with the S&P 500 down 0.58%, the Nasdaq down 2.0%, and the Dow down 0.85%. Alphabet's worst day on record and fresh doubts about AI spending, driven by Amazon and Intel, pushed the Nasdaq to its worst day since June and its steepest monthly drop since March 2025. The Fed held rates steady, while strong GDP growth and stubborn inflation kept a December rate hike in play. This week, investors turn to midterm elections, Apple and AMD earnings, and Friday's October jobs report.