Stock prices sagged over November, with investors worried about the effect of omicron, the latest COVID variant, as well as strong inflation. The average drop for large company stock indices was -2.1%. Utilities and REIT stocks were among the sectors that rose last month. Diversified portfolios, with bonds and stocks, outperform in down stock markets.
Despite the virus threats and inflation, the economy is strong. Americans are consuming again. It makes sense to do what we can personally and step back to watch how the threats play out. So far inflation seems temporary and omicron more controllable in that we have better resources.
Christmas transports young children to a magical place where dreams come true and good things happen because people are kind. The lights, scents of holiday baking and festive decorations build anticipation. The air is full of secrets of planned surprise gifts. Favorite stories are retold. People smile more. The world could use so much more of this. Some part of this childhood should live like a fire in each of us.
