I know many of you are dedicated Costco and Sam’s Club shoppers. You are all about getting deals and saving money.
There’s a wonderful fight going on that will make winners of investors who are paying attention.
If you have been invested in U.S. stocks the past few years you have no doubt made some serious money. The U.S. markets are up more than 300% since this bull market began in 2009. But I want you to understand that great returns are in no way a guarantee going forward. Yes, stocks are always the smart investment if you are a long-term investor, but I hope you realize that over the next 10 years we might not see such robust U.S. stocks returns, simply because they have had such an incredible run.
It’s been a great stretch for investors. Stocks have gained more than 250% in the bull market that stretches all the way back to 2009. I am always a big believer that dollar cost averaging-investing on a regular basis-is a great strategy for long-term investors. So don’t take what I am about to say as a reason to give up on stocks: Returns over the next seven to 10 years probably won’t be as good as what we’ve had the past seven years.
I am on the record that only couples in great financial shape should spend money on an expensive/large wedding. But for those of you who are just going to plow ahead despite shaky finances, please at least make the most of my money-saving wedding tips.
We’re heading into the dangerous money season. With the holidays quickly approaching it’s that annual time of year when the goodness of your heart can lead to very bad results: You overspend on gifts, dining out, or nights out on the town.