Optimism...

As 2014 comes to a close, it is good to take a moment to see how far we’ve come. The best way of understanding last year’s financial blessings is to look at our December investment statements. From the market appreciation on stock gains, to income from dividends and bond interests... it was a VERY GOOD year!

These blessings are a direct result of the strengthening US economy driven by optimism felt by Americans nationwide as we benefit from:

- increasing employment - falling gas prices - low interest rate loans - rising home values

- minimal inflation - reduced global conflict

Going forward, we expect this underlying optimism to continue with only a few minor changes. By mid 2015, our Federal government has indicated that it will slowly start to raise interest rates. European leaders are planning a stimulus package for their economy, similar to what worked for us in the United States. And, if the ultra low petroleum prices continue, it could destabilize the Russian and Venezuelan economies, thus possibly creating geopolitic issues.

We expect 2015 will be another VERY GOOD year!

Best Wishes... Mark Herhold