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

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šŸ“ˆ 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. Thatā€™s close to the historical average annual gain, and itā€™s only been three months.

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

Letā€™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. Itā€™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. Heā€™d love for you to use tax-advantaged retirement accounts such as a 401(k) or IRA as well.

šŸ“Š Stat of the Day

šŸ’ø 940,000: People in the United States that havenā€™t claimed their 2020 tax refunds. Thereā€™s more than $1 billion in unclaimed refunds. And the deadline to submit for those refunds is May 17.

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The latest data shows that the average American is saving $0.03 for every $1 they make. If youā€™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.

ā˜Žļø 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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