Each year, Dimensional Funds analyzes returns from a large sample of US-based mutual funds. The objective is to assess the performance of mutual fund managers relative to benchmarks. This year’s study updates results through 2018. The evidence shows that a majority of fund managers in the sample failed to deliver benchmark-beating returns after costs. The results of this research provide a strong case for relying on market prices when making investment decisions.
We’ve had some great trips so far this year. We went on Whale Magic Tours to see the grey whales spawning, fished in San Quintin Bay, caught Lobster off Catalina, and just got back from fishing in Gonzaga Bay.
Upcoming Fishing Trips
With a few trips under our belt, we are heading out of the fishing show season with some spots still available. We have more spots available on 4 of our remaining 6 trips for the year. If you want to go on a trip that is full, let us know. If anyone has something come up and a spot opens, you can come along.
Here are some important dates you'll want to note in 2019. We have compiled important dates sportfishing trade shows, group fishing events, and of course, important deadlines for taxes.
IRS Deadlines and Group Event Dates
January 15, 2019
Deadline to pay the fourth quarter estimated tax payment for tax year 2018
January 31, 2019
Deadline for employers to mail out W-2 Forms to their employees and for businesses to furnish 1099 Forms
February 15, 2019
Pacific Coast Sportfishing Festival Friday 15th - Sunday 17th.
February 28, 2019
Deadline for businesses to mail Forms 1099 and 1096 to the IRS
After logging strong returns in 2017, global equity markets delivered negative returns in US dollar terms in 2018. Common news stories in 2018 included reports on global economic growth, corporate earnings, record low unemployment in the US, the implementation of Brexit, US trade wars with China and other countries, and a flattening US Treasury yield curve. Global equity markets delivered positive returns through September, followed by a decline in the fourth quarter, resulting in a –4.4% return for the S&P 500 and –9.4% for the MSCI All Country World Index for the year.
The fourth quarter equity market decline has many investors wondering how equities may perform in the near term. Equity market declines of 10% have occurred numerous times in the past. The S&P 500 returned –13.5% in the fourth quarter while the MSCI All Country World Index returned –12.8%. After declines of 10% or more, equity returns over the subsequent 12 months have been positive 71% of the time in US markets and 72% of the time in other developed markets.
The financial world seems to have its own language. From “amortization” to “insolvency,” reading a financial news article or blog post can make your head spin. One term that is thrown around alot these days is “fiduciary.” Do you know what it means? More importantly, do you know what it means for your money?
What is a Fiduciary?
A fiduciary is similar to a trustee. An advisor who serves as a fiduciary accepts a responsibility to put their client’s interests first and foremost in all decisions. A fiduciary is supposed to avoid conflicts of interest and remain unbiased in their recommendations and advice. Additionally, all fees should be clear and discussed upfront. This gives you confidence that your hard-earned money is in good hands.