Clark Biweekly 4 4 24

Author

Anthony Hazzard
April 04, 2024

The stock market performed well on the last day of March. How well? Find out later in this email.

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📈 U.S. Stock Market Performs Well in Q1

Easter Sunday was the last day of March. So the S&P 500 closed for the final time in Q1 on March 29.

The S&P 500 is up 10.8% year to date. That’s close to the historical average annual gain, and it’s only been three months.

With the Fed potentially cutting interest rates at some point in 2024, there’s optimism that the market will continue to perform.

Let’s take a look at some quick figures from Q1:

  • 72.5% of the S&P 500 stocks went up in Q1.

  • NVIDIA led all S&P 500 stocks by gaining 82% -- 24% better than the next-closest company (Constellation Energy).

  • Other notable gains included Meta (+40%) and Disney (+34%).

  • At -28%, Tesla performed worst of any stock in the S&P 500.

  • Other losers included Boeing (-26%) and Apple (-10%).

Clark typically advocates for long-term investing. That means valuing time in the market over timing the market. It’s easier for some people, though, to stay invested when the market is performing well.

Clark wants you to view investing for retirement as a slow, steady process that includes a diversified portfolio with low fees. He’d love for you to use tax-advantaged retirement accounts such as a 401(k) or IRA as well.

📊 Stat of the Day

💸 940,000: People in the United States that haven’t claimed their 2020 tax refunds. There’s more than $1 billion in unclaimed refunds. And the deadline to submit for those refunds is May 17.

💰️ Deal Alert: Today’s Top Deals
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🎙️ Podcast

The latest data shows that the average American is saving $0.03 for every $1 they make. If you’re struggling to save money, Clark has several tips that can help. Also, how much exercise do you really need to make a difference in your health, and ultimately your wallet? The answer may surprise you.

☎️ Need Money Help?

The Team Clark Consumer Action Center is a free helpline that can help you navigate your money questions. Call 636-492-5275. Visit clark.com/cac for more information.

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