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ESG with WOA on Zoom

We welcome you and a guest to join the Women of Albion THIS THURSDAY, February 25th, for a virtual event on ESG investing. ESG stands for Environmental, Social, Governance, and the term ESG investing includes these three central factors along with the usual financial factors in determining the investment merit of a company.
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Albion has provided ESG investing opportunities to our clients since 2017 and as this type of investing gains more popularity and recognition, we are getting many questions about what ESG investing is and how it works. Thus came the inspiration for our spring #WOA event!
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Albion’s Chief Investment Officer, Jason Ware, will join the Women of Albion to talk about ESG investing. This will be an opportunity to learn more about the type of companies that make the cut, why ESG investing is important to Albion, and how it can be a way to align your investments with your values.
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Looking forward to seeing you on Zoom! Contact us to RSVP.
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#esg #esginvesting #womenofalbion #albionfinancialgroup #womeninfinance #femalefinancialliteracy #environmentalinvesting

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Weekly Market Recap

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US equities were mixed last week. Large cap cyclicals rose, including energy, financials, materials, and industrials, pushing the Dow to a record high during Wednesday’s session. However, sectors like technology, communications, and healthcare finished lower, resulting in small losses for the S&P 500 and Nasdaq Composite. Small and midcap US stocks were also down slightly, while international stock indices managed to eke out small gains.

Last week’s most prominent market action was in rates, as Treasury yields moved higher on the back of PPI inflation and retail sales figures that blew past consensus estimates. The 10-year finished the week at 1.34% (+13bp w/w), while the 30-year closed at 2.13% (+12bp w/w). Credit spreads compressed slightly, particularly in high yield, but not enough to prevent price declines across most spread-oriented sectors of the bond market.

Oil finally took a pause, finishing slightly lower on Friday after trading above $60/barrel (WTI) for most of the week. Market participants are anticipating a rise in OPEC+ production, and a short-term drop in demand as refineries take time to recover from freezing weather across much of the southern US.

In other economic news, weekly jobless claims remained range-bound, while residential building permits rose to a fresh 15-year high of 1.88 million (SAAR), a positive sign for housing and the broader economy in 2021. See the Chart of the Week for a time series.

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Weekly Market Recap

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Equity markets around the world rallied once again last week, driven by continued strength in earnings, notable progress on vaccine distribution, dovish commentary by Fed Chairman Jerome Powell, and some progress towards another round of economic stimulus in the US.

On the vaccine front, Sinovac Biotech announced that its vaccine was approved for use in China, Pfizer’s vaccine was approved for use in Japan, and the Biden administration announced that the US had reached deals with both Pfizer and Moderna for another 100 million vaccine doses from each company. Dr. Anthony Fauci now expects that any American who wants a vaccine will be able to get one in the spring (possibly as early as April).

Treasury markets responded to all of this good news by sending yields higher, with the 30-year breaching 2% for the first time since Feb 19th of last year (the same day equity markets reached their pre-pandemic peak). Meanwhile the 2s10s curve reached 110 basis points, the highest level since the pandemic began. Investment grade corporate credit spreads tightened by 2bp, not enough to offset the move in rates. Muni and high yield bond spreads tightened more vigorously, pushing prices higher in those markets.

Oil extended its 2021 rally, with WTI finishing the week up another 4.6%. As a result, the energy sector extended its lead as the best-performing sector so far in 2021, while utilities were the worst performer last week.

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#4 in the Book of Lists and #1 in our Clients’ Hearts

We are honored, once again, to be listed among Utah’s top Registered Investment Advisors in Utah Business Magazine’s 2020 Book of Lists publication.

Albion Financial Group has been ranked on these lists on numerous occasions and we are grateful for the recognition of our dedication to our clients. Additionally, several individuals from our team have been recognized for their excellence on the magazine’s popular 40 UNDER 40 and Premier Advisors lists.

As Albion now approaches our fortieth year in business, we are proud of our pioneering fiduciary legacy and the life-long guidance we provide to the individuals and families within our client community.

Read our story to learn more about Albion Financial Group.

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Weekly Market Recap

Every Monday morning, download our Weekly Market Recap for Commentary and Data, with Economy and Earnings, Equity Valuation, Interest Rates, and Inflation, including infographic charts.

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FAQ: Bitcoin 101

Bitcoin, and more broadly cryptocurrencies, are seeing increasing news coverage. This has left many wondering: “What is bitcoin and how does it work?” For those trying to better understand bitcoin and cryptocurrencies, here’s our understanding on a handful of frequently asked questions:

What is bitcoin?

Bitcoin is a digital “currency” that can be used to purchase goods and services (only at select locations, for now), or held as a store of speculative value. There are many differences between bitcoin and traditional currency, but the principal difference is that bitcoin is not issued by a government or regulated by a government entity.

Where did bitcoin come from?

This is where it gets a bit mysterious. Bitcoin was created by “Satoshi Nakamoto”, an unknown individual or group of individuals. Under this pseudonym a white paper was circulated in 2008 that first described the concept for a transparent, visible peer-to-peer payment system authenticated by a vast network that does not require the presence of a third party middleman – such as banks or other financial institutions. By combining cryptography and unique software protocols, Satoshi Nakamoto originated a payment system that allowed participants to transact directly with one another.

How is it possible to make currency transactions without banks?

Bitcoin transactions have been made possible with the encryption technology underpinning cryptocurrencies known as “blockchain.” Blockchain is a global Internet-wide distributed network that is at its core a decentralized accounting ledger recording every bitcoin transaction. The blockchain ledger is shared by way of an extensive network and the information therein is validated by network “miners” every ten minutes by solving mathematical puzzles using very fast computers and high amounts of electricity. This network validated ledger is crucial as it ascribes proof of ownership to digital assets like bitcoin. If the ledger proves ownership, participants can have trust when making transactions.

Tying together the concept of bitcoin and blockchain, think of it this way – the bitcoin “coins” themselves are simply seats within the aforementioned blockchain ledger. Anyone can buy into or sell out of this ledger at any time – with no prior consent, and with little-to-no fees. Therefore, when buying a bitcoin you are essentially acquiring one of a number of fixed slots within this ledger. You leave the ledger by selling your bitcoin to someone else who wishes to buy in.

If I want to buy bitcoin, how would I make a purchase? Do I need to buy a whole coin?

There are many exchanges out there that allow participants to deposit US dollars (or other widely accepted global currencies) directly from traditional bank accounts in exchange for bitcoin. Some cryptocurrency exchanges also have mobile apps allowing participants to buy bitcoin anytime, anywhere.

Additionally, participants need not buy a whole bitcoin to participate. The smallest unit of bitcoin, a “satoshi”, is the size of one hundred millionth of a single bitcoin (0.00000001 BTC).

What are the risks to purchasing and holding bitcoin? The current price seems high!

It depends on the type of risk one is referring to. Let’s start with general cybersecurity threats. Cryptocurrency exchanges, including those which trade bitcoin, have been hacked before, and will likely be hacked again. Perhaps the most notable example was in 2014 when “Mt. Gox”, the largest bitcoin exchange at the time, failed as a direct result of hackers and vast bitcoin theft. Security surrounding cryptocurrency exchanges have notably improved since Mt. Gox’s failure. Individuals can use bitcoin digital wallets and vaults that are encrypted with a secure network key which dramatically reduces the possibility of being hacked.

Another key risk worth touching on is the possibility of loss of capital for those speculating on its price. Bitcoin has experienced a monumental run as of late. There are a variety of opinions and market variables as to why this has occurred. Will this price rally continue, or crash? Nobody knows for sure. However one way to think about it is, by design, bitcoin was given a finite supply – determined at inception to be 21,000,000 bitcoins – and we are now seeing growing awareness leading to rising demand. This basic supply / demand dynamic may help describe, at least at some level, recent price moves in bitcoin. That being said, just because more cryptocurrency enthusiasts are now entering the market seemingly pushing up prices does not mean everyone should take a position. With a greater understanding of bitcoin – both its potential opportunities and risks – paired with careful holistic wealth advice, more educated decision making can be made on potential bitcoin / cryptocurrency participation.

We hope that this FAQ provides a helpful introduction to bitcoin / cryptocurrencies, and perhaps even sparks your desire to want to learn more. The investment team at Albion Financial Group is well versed in bitcoin / cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology. Please reach out to us at 801-487-3700 or info@albionfinancial.com if we can answer your bitcoin, investment, or financial planning questions.

Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. This is not a recommendation to buy or sell any security or cryptocurrency. There are significant risks associated with cryptocurrency that are unique and must not be taken lightly. It is critical that you perform your own due diligence prior to engaging in any buy or sell transaction. The value of bitcoin, or any cryptocurrency can, and may, ultimately go to zero.

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2021 Planning Guide: What You Need to Know

A quick reference for tax rates, savings and retirement contributions, college savings strategies, as well as Social Security and Medicare information.

Everyone’s financial situation is unique – the information found in the 2021 Planning Guide should only be used as a foundation for discussing your individual circumstances with a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ practitioner, legal or tax professional.

The wealth advising team at Albion Financial Group understands the complexities of the current wealth management environment and would be honored to discuss your financial situation and strategies that may help you reach your personal financial goals.

Please give us a call at (801) 487-3700 or email dpope@albionfinancial.com.

We wish you a prosperous 2021.

Devin Pope, CFP®, MBA
Senior Wealth Advisor
Albion Financial Group

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Conference Call Recording – November 5, 2020

Listen back to Albion’s November conference call.

  • 00:00  John Bird, President & CEO – Introduction
  • 03:27 Jason Ware, CIO – Markets & Economy
  • 11:54 Doug Wells, Partner – Planning Strategies
  • 26:09 Q & A
  • 27:28 How is potential regulation of “Big Tech” affecting our investments?
  • 33:23 What should I be doing to protect my portfolio in the context of so much ambiguity?
  • 41:21 Who can I talk to if I am anxious about my portfolio for any reason?
  • 43:18 With the ongoing pandemic and a potential change of president, are there investment changes I should make?
  • 48:48 Conclusion
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Conference Call Recording – October 6, 2020

Listen back to Albion’s October conference call.
00:00 – John Bird, President & CEO: Introduction
14:01 – Jason Ware, CIO: Markets and Economy
28:17 – Liz Bernhard, Senior Wealth Advisor: Planning and Tactics
41:44 – Q&A

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Planners’ Corner – August 20, 2020

Should I refinance?

Mortgage rates are at historic lows. According to Bankrate, the national benchmark rate for a 30-year fixed refinance mortgage is 3.16% and a 15-year fixed refinance mortgage is 2.62% (8/27/2020). It is worth noting that rates for refinancing tend be a bit higher than for purchases. Many clients are wondering if they should refinance and it seems like the answer would be, “yes,” however, not unlike many financial planning questions we address, the real answer is, “it depends.”

Yes, refinancing at a lower rate will reduce your monthly payment. But, it may not reduce the total payment you make over the life of your loan. One of the most determinate variables in the refinancing equation is how long you’ve had your current mortgage.

For example, we have a client who was looking to refinance a few months ago. They were 10 years into a 30-year fixed mortgage at 4.375% and were looking to refinance into a new 30-year fixed loan at 3.5%. Sounds like a good move, right? Their monthly payment would drop by $400 which is a savings they would feel right away. But, over the life of the loan, they would actually end up paying an additional $15,000 of interest. Why? Because more of the monthly payment goes towards interest in the early years of a mortgage. When you refinance, you restart the interest clock. In our client’s example, they already paid 10 years of interest. If they continued paying on their current loan at 4.375%, they would pay a total of $128,000 in interest over the life of the loan. If they refinanced at 3.5%, they would end up paying a total of $143,000 in interest.

If the client chose to invest their monthly savings ($400) they could potentially earn more than the additional interest of $15,000 thus making the refinance a more attractive option.

For simplicity sake we are not accounting for closing costs, but they do have an impact on the refinancing decision. Additionally, a new refinance fee – called the “adverse market” fee – is set to go into effect on December 1st of this year. It will add a 0.50% charge to the vast majority of refinances. The fee is applied to the total loan amount. For example, if you take out a $300,000 mortgage, you will pay an additional $1,500 in closing costs.

So, should you refinance? Again, the answer is, “it depends.” How long have you been paying on your current mortgage? If you haven’t had your current mortgage for very long, a refinance is likely more compelling, especially if you can do it before the new fee goes into effect later this year.

Other important questions. How much lower will the rate be with a refinance? What will you do with the monthly savings? Are you trying to shorten the term of your loan?

We have helped many clients work through refinancing decisions. Please reach out if you have questions about your current mortgage or other loans. We are happy to help you determine the best decision for your individual circumstance.

by Liz Bernhard & Danielle Gregory, August 2020
Senior Wealth Advisors at Albion Financial Group
www.albionfinancial.com | 801-487-3700