Stock prices pushed higher last week, notching multiple records along the way as employment and inflation data took center stage in anticipation of the Fed’s upcoming meeting.

The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index rose 0.31 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index picked up 0.91 percent. The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 0.50 percent. The MSCI EAFE Index, which tracks developed overseas stock markets, added 0.72 percent.^1,2

Fed in Spotlight

Stocks fell to start the week as all three averages snapped a five-day win streak.³

Megacap tech stocks then led a recovery rally, which continued its momentum midweek as ADP's November report showed a decline in private-sector payrolls. Investors welcomed the report, believing it might prompt an interest rate adjustment at the Fed’s upcoming meeting. All three major averages posted modest gains over both Tuesday and Wednesday.^4,5

Stocks then largely went sideways, with small gains for the S&P and Nasdaq while the Dow fell slightly. Meanwhile, the Russell 2000, which measures the performance of small-cap stocks, has cracked a fresh record high.⁶

Markets rallied on Friday after a delayed inflation report showed that prices rose at a slightly slower annualized rate in September. The S&P closed out a four-day winning streak.⁷

Economy Watch

The Fed’s preferred measure of inflation stayed cool. The Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) Price Index rose 2.8 percent in September from a year prior, cooler than the 2.9 percent expected. The annualized core inflation rate of 2.8 percent also came in just under expectations.⁸

The ADP private-sector jobs showed employers cut 32,000 jobs in November. Two things to remember: (1) this report is only based on the first two weeks of November, and (2) small business payrolls declined by 120,000, while employers with 50 or more workers added 90,000 jobs.^9,10

An optimistic inflation report but a sluggish jobs update added to growing speculation that the Fed will adjust rates at its next (and last) meeting of the year.¹¹

This Week: Key Economic Data
Tuesday: NFIB Small Business Optimism Index. Job Openings (Oct.)* Federal Open Market Committee meeting, Day 1.

Wednesday: Employment Cost Index (Q3).* Federal Budget. Federal Open Market Committee meeting, Day 2. Fed Interest Rate Decision. Fed Chair Press Conference. Federal Open Market Committee meeting, Day 2. Fed Interest Rate Decision. Fed Chair Press Conference. 

Thursday: Weekly Jobless Claims.

^{* indicates publication of a report that had been delayed by the government shutdown}

^{Source: Investors Business Daily - Econoday economic calendar; December 5, 2025. The Econoday economic calendar lists upcoming U.S. economic data releases (including key economic indicators), Federal Reserve policy meetings, and speaking engagements of Federal Reserve officials. The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The forecasts or forward-looking statements are based on assumptions and may not materialize. The forecasts also are subject to revision.}

This Week: Companies Reporting Earnings

Tuesday: AutoZone, Inc. (AZO)

Wednesday: Oracle Corporation (ORCL), Adobe Inc. (ADBE), Synopsis, Inc. (SNPS)

Thursday: Broadcom Inc. (AVGO), Costco Wholesale Corporation (COST)

^{Source: Zacks, December 5, 2025. Companies mentioned are for informational purposes only. It should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of the securities. Investing involves risks, and investment decisions should be based on your own goals, time horizon, and tolerance for risk. The return and principal value of investments will fluctuate as market conditions change. When sold, investments may be worth more or less than their original cost. Companies may reschedule when they report earnings without notice.}

“There's great value in being able to step back and laugh at yourself, at life and at attitudes. Laughter helps you put everything into perspective." 

– Jim Henson

5 Things You Can Find on IRS.gov

The IRS website offers a wealth of information beyond just tax filing information. Here are some things you can find on the site that might help you as a taxpayer:

1. The Taxpayer Bill of Rights - This set of fundamental rights tells you what to expect when dealing with the IRS.
2. Resources on how to apply for 501(c)(3) status - There are webinars and resources to help organizations apply for and maintain their tax-exempt status.
3. Information on IRS tax volunteer opportunities - Learn how to give back and help people file their taxes
4. Information on the latest tax scams - Know what to look out for and how to stay safe
5. The Interactive Tax Assistant - Get personalized answers to your tax questions

This information is not a substitute for individualized tax advice. Please discuss your specific tax issues with a qualified tax professional. 

Tip adapted from IRS.gov¹²

Rainwater Collecting

Collecting rainwater is a great way to conserve water, decrease water bills, lower demand for freshwater resources, slow erosion in dry environments, and reduce flooding. 

One way is to collect the runoff from your gutter in a bucket or container. You can then use that water for gardening, watering indoor plants, filling the toilet tanks, washing your car, or storing it as emergency water in the case of a fire. While rainwater collection is legal in all 50 states, be aware that some states have restrictions on collecting and using it, so check them before you begin!

Tip adapted from Treehugger.com¹³

What 2 common English-language words both contain 2 Cs in a row, 2 Ss in a row and two Ls in a row?

Last Week's Riddle: What word measures weight and turns negative if spelled backwards?

Answer: Ton.

Kangaamiut, (formerly Gammel Sukkertoppen), Greenland

Central-western Greenland

Stocks pushed higher over the holiday week as investors' hopes for a Fed rate adjustment drove bullish sentiment.

The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index rose 3.73 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index rallied 4.91 percent. The Dow Jones Industrial Average advanced 3.18 percent. The MSCI EAFE Index, which tracks developed overseas stock markets, increased 3.15 percent.^1,2

AI Powered

A rebound rally began on Monday as the artificial intelligence (AI) business strategy of one of the largest megacap tech stocks reignited positive sentiment in the AI trade. The enthusiasm broadened out to a number of AI-related names, lifting the S&P 500 by 1.5 percent and the Nasdaq by 2.7 percent—its biggest one-day gain in more than six months.³

Stocks rose again on Tuesday and Wednesday—the third and fourth consecutive trading days of gains, respectively, for all three major averages.

Overall bullish holiday sentiment, positive news on a handful of AI-related megacap tech names, and continued investor optimism for the Fed to adjust rates at its next meeting powered the advances.

Markets continued their rise after the Thanksgiving holiday, with stocks rounding out the shortened trading session with a fifth consecutive day of gains.^4,5

Keeping Score on the Consumer

As we move full steam ahead into the holiday shopping season, investors are closely watching consumer data.

The fresh consumer spending data released last week was the first update. The delayed report showed the pace of retail sales in September cooled slightly over the prior month, just shy of expectations.

Next up was the Conference Board’s November survey, which showed that consumer confidence dropped to 88.7 from 99.5 in October.⁶

Investors may be anxiously awaiting the October retail sales report and closely monitoring other consumer data points for clues about the future direction of the economy.

This Week: Key Economic Data
Monday: PMI Manufacturing Index. ISM Manufacturing.

Tuesday: Auto Sales.

Wednesday: ADP Employment Report. Import Prices (Sept.)* PMI Services Index. ISM Services.

Thursday: Weekly Jobless Claims. Trade Deficit (Oct.)

Friday: Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) Price Index (Sept.)*

^{* indicates publication of a report that had been delayed by the government shutdown}

^{Source: Investors Business Daily - Econoday economic calendar; November 28, 2025. The Econoday economic calendar lists upcoming U.S. economic data releases (including key economic indicators), Federal Reserve policy meetings, and speaking engagements of Federal Reserve officials. The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The forecasts or forward-looking statements are based on assumptions and may not materialize. The forecasts also are subject to revision.}

This Week: Companies Reporting Earnings

Tuesday: CrowdStrike (CRWD), Marvell Technology, Inc. (MRVL)

Wednesday: Salesforce Inc. (CRM), Snowflake Inc. (SNOW)

Thursday: The Kroger Co. (KR)

^{Source: Zacks, November 28, 2025. Companies mentioned are for informational purposes only. It should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of the securities. Investing involves risks, and investment decisions should be based on your own goals, time horizon, and tolerance for risk. The return and principal value of investments will fluctuate as market conditions change. When sold, investments may be worth more or less than their original cost. Companies may reschedule when they report earnings without notice.}

“He who is not courageous enough to take risks will accomplish nothing in life." 

– Muhammad Ali

Be Vigilant & Protect Yourself From Texting Scams

Unfortunately, instances of IRS-themed text scams are on the rise, and these scam attempts could put your sensitive tax data at risk. Most of these scam messages look like they’re coming from the IRS and have fake messages to lure you into providing personal information. They may also ask for your information to help you set up an IRS account online. 

Be aware of these scams to protect yourself and your data. Remember, the IRS does not send emails or texts asking for personal or financial information. If you receive a text like this, report it to the IRS by emailing [email protected].

This information is not a substitute for individualized tax advice. Please discuss your specific tax issues with a qualified tax professional. 

Tip adapted from IRS.gov⁷

This Virtual Experience Lets You Take a Vacation Without Leaving Home

Google Arts & Culture allows you to do many things, including exploring lands near and far without leaving your house. 

The platform is constantly growing, but some of the most popular activities include hiking Machu Picchu, taking a virtual tour of the Louvre, traveling through time, or viewing hundreds of photos from almost any location worldwide. Learn more about famous works of art and experience them with augmented reality. Art Projector even lets you see how artworks look in actual size right before you. See what the Mona Lisa looks like in your living room!

The experience works on your computer, but you can also download the app to experience Google Arts & Culture on the move.

Tip adapted from Google Arts & Culture⁸

What word measures weight and turns negative if spelled backwards?

Last Week's Riddle: Christine likes grapes but not potatoes. She likes squash but not lettuce, and peas but not onions. Following the same rule, will she like pumpkins or apples?

Answer: Pumpkins. Christine only likes fruits and vegetables that grow on vines.

Iguazu falls

Iguazú, Argentina

Heightened volatility was on Wall Street’s mind last week, as investors continued to focus on valuations of artificial intelligence (AI) stocks.

The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index fell 1.95 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index declined 2.74 percent. The Dow Jones Industrial Average slid 1.91 percent. The MSCI EAFE Index, which tracks developed overseas stock markets, slumped 3.25 percent.^1,2

AI Valuation Worries 

Stocks slid over the first half of the week as anticipation continued to build for Q3 results from one of the largest AI megacap tech stocks, due out midweek.

While the decline was led by megacap tech stocks, which typically drag down both the Nasdaq and S&P 500, the Dow Industrials also fell. With the government still playing catch-up on a backlog of economic reports following the shutdown, investors kept a close eye on big consumer-related stocks for insights into the economy.³

Then midweek, all three major averages rebounded, with the S&P snapping a four-day losing streak. Sentiment improved as investors turned more positive about another AI firm’s quarterly report due out after Wednesday’s closing bell.⁴

That firm’s results helped boost stocks after the opening bell on Thursday, but prices retreated quickly as investor anxiety built over whether the Fed would adjust rates next month. The Fed’s October meeting minutes revealed divisions among the Committee's voting members. Additionally, the Labor Department's September jobs report painted a mixed employment picture, which might complicate the Fed's decision.⁵

Stocks rebounded on Friday after New York Fed President John Williams seemed to reassure investors that a rate adjustment at the Fed's December meeting was still a possibility. The bounce was jagged, as the rebound had to battle through disappointing economic data on consumer sentiment and manufacturing activity.⁶

More Jobs, but Higher Jobless Rate

The delayed September jobs report came out last week, and showed employers added 119,000 jobs—the strongest monthly gain since April and a rebound from August’s loss of 4,000 jobs (which was later revised to a 22,000 gain). The jobs report was among the first post-shutdown reports to be published by the Labor Department.

The unemployment rate in September rose to 4.4 percent, higher than the 4.3 percent economists expected. It was the highest number in four years.

This was the Labor Department’s last monthly employment report before the Federal Reserve’s next meeting on December 9-10.⁷

This Week: Key Economic Data
Tuesday: Retail Sales (Sept). Case-Shiller Home Price Index (Sept). Business Inventories (Sept). Consumer Confidence. Pending Home Sales.

Wednesday: Weekly Jobless Claims. Durable Goods Orders (Sept).

Thursday: THANKSGIVING HOLIDAY—MARKETS CLOSED

Friday: Chicago Business Barometer.

^{Source: Investors Business Daily - Econoday economic calendar; November 21, 2025. The Econoday economic calendar lists upcoming U.S. economic data releases (including key economic indicators), Federal Reserve policy meetings, and speaking engagements of Federal Reserve officials. The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The forecasts or forward-looking statements are based on assumptions and may not materialize. The forecasts also are subject to revision.}

This Week: Companies Reporting Earnings

Monday: Agilent Technologies (A)

Tuesday: Analog Devices, Inc. (ADI), Dell Technologies Inc. (DELL), Autodesk, Inc. (ADSK), Workday, Inc. (WDAY)

Wednesday: Deere & Company (DE)

^{Source: Zacks, November 21, 2025. Companies mentioned are for informational purposes only. It should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of the securities. Investing involves risks, and investment decisions should be based on your own goals, time horizon, and tolerance for risk. The return and principal value of investments will fluctuate as market conditions change. When sold, investments may be worth more or less than their original cost. Companies may reschedule when they report earnings without notice.}

“Your time is limited, so don't waste it living someone else's life." 

– Steve Jobs

Outstanding Tax Bill? Consider an Offer in Compromise

An Offer in Compromise is a federal tax program that allows taxpayers to enter into an agreement with the IRS to settle their tax debt for less than the amount they owe. This agreement is an option when taxpayers can't pay their full tax liabilities or when paying the entire balance owed would cause financial hardship. The goal is a compromise that suits the best interests of both parties. 

The IRS considers various circumstances when reviewing OIC applications, including the applicant’s:

• Income
• Expenses
• Asset equity

There is also an application to apply for an OIC. Taxpayers who meet the definition of a low-income taxpayer don't have to pay this fee.

This information is not a substitute for individualized tax advice. Please discuss your specific tax issues with a qualified tax professional. 

Tip adapted from IRS.gov⁸

It's All in a Walk: 3 Tips for Integrating Walking Into Your Day

Getting more movement is always a good idea, but finding the time to fit a walk into your day can be hard. These tips will make it easier to get up and get moving:

• Keep a pair of sneakers in your car to walk whenever you have a few extra minutes! This could be during your lunch break at work, if you’re early for a doctor’s appointment, or while you’re waiting to pick up the kids from school.
• Walk when you might otherwise sit. We’re always waiting for something, so walk around instead of sitting while you wait! It’s okay if you can’t go far; at least you’re getting your steps in.
• Have multiple routes, so you don’t get bored walking the same route daily.
• Invite friends for a walk instead of getting coffee or lunch.

Tip adapted from Help Guide⁹

Christine likes grapes but not potatoes. She likes squash but not lettuce, and peas but not onions. Following the same rule, will she like pumpkins or apples?

Last Week's Riddle: Glittering points that downward thrust. Sparkling spears that cannot rust. What are they?

Answer: Icicles.

Eurasian Lynx

Bavaria, Germany

Stocks ended mixed after a nail-biting week for investors, who grew anxious over megacap tech valuations and interest rates as the government shutdown came to an end.

The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index edged up 0.08 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index slipped 0.45 percent. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 0.34 percent. The MSCI EAFE Index, which tracks developed overseas stock markets, advanced 1.63 percent.^1,2

Rotating into Value

The week began with stocks rising, fueled by hopes that the longest-ever government shutdown could soon end as a federal funding bill moved closer to Congressional approval. Building on these early gains, the Nasdaq advanced more than 2 percent and the S&P 500 added 1½ percent.³

Stocks rose at the opening bell on Tuesday following news that the Senate had passed a bill to end the shutdown, but sentiment quickly turned as tech stocks pulled down the Nasdaq and S&P. Meanwhile, the Dow rose modestly. However, by midday, sentiment shifted positively, and the Dow and S&P 500 closed in the green.⁴

Midweek, growing conviction that the government would reopen continued to push the Dow Industrials higher. As a result, the Dow achieved its first record close above 48,000, with the S&P remaining flat and the Nasdaq slipping. Once the government reopened Thursday morning, attention quickly turned to tech valuations and an earnings miss from a large entertainment conglomerate. This shift also prompted investors to worry whether the Fed would adjust interest rates next month. Despite a brief dip as the week concluded, markets stabilized, with the Nasdaq and S&P recovering near the flatline, while the Dow lagged slightly.^5,6,7

Restarting the Data Engine

It takes time to get a tanker ship up and running again after a full stop. That’s what the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) is doing now, as the government stats engine resumes.

Using the last government shutdown (in 2013) as a baseline, about half of the BLS reports that have not yet been published could be ready by the Federal Reserve’s next meeting on December 9-10. The remainder of the backlogged reports (including October reports) are estimated to be published on a rolling basis through mid-January.⁸

This Week: Key Economic Data
Monday: Fed officials Philip Jefferson, Neel Kashkari, and Christopher Waller speak.

Tuesday: Import Prices (October). Industrial Production (October). Capacity Utilization (October). Home Builder Confidence Index. Fed governor Michael Barr speaks.

Wednesday: Housing Starts (October). Building Permits (October). Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) Minutes, October meeting.

Thursday: Weekly Jobless Claims. Existing Home Sales (October). Leading Economic Indicators (October). Fed governor Lisa Cook and Fed Presidents Austan Goolsbee (Chicago) and Anna Paulson (Philadelphia) speak.

Friday: Fed governor Michael Barr, Fed Vice Chair Philip Jefferson, and Dallas Fed President Lorie Logan speak. Purchasing Managers Index (PMI) Survey—Services. Purchasing Managers Index (PMI) Survey—Manufacturing. Consumer Sentiment.

^{Source: Investors Business Daily - Econoday economic calendar; November 14, 2025. The Econoday economic calendar lists upcoming U.S. economic data releases (including key economic indicators), Federal Reserve policy meetings, and speaking engagements of Federal Reserve officials. The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The forecasts or forward-looking statements are based on assumptions and may not materialize. The forecasts also are subject to revision.}

This Week: Companies Reporting Earnings

Tuesday: The Home Depot, Inc. (HD)

Wednesday: NVIDIA Corporation (NVDA), The TJX Companies, Inc. (TJX), Palo Alto Networks, Inc. (PANW), Lowe’s Companies, Inc. (LOW)

Thursday: Walmart Inc. (WMT), Intuit Inc. (INTU), NetEase, Inc. (NTES)

^{Source: Zacks, November 14, 2025. Companies mentioned are for informational purposes only. It should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of the securities. Investing involves risks, and investment decisions should be based on your own goals, time horizon, and tolerance for risk. The return and principal value of investments will fluctuate as market conditions change. When sold, investments may be worth more or less than their original cost. Companies may reschedule when they report earnings without notice.}

“Collecting more data often helps, but if you try to collect more data for everything, that can be a very expensive activity." 

– Andrew Ng

You Have the Right to Retain Representation When Working with the IRS

As part of the Taxpayer Bill of Rights, you have the right to retain an authorized representative to represent you when dealing with the IRS. If you can’t afford representation, seek help from a Low Income Taxpayer Clinic (LITC).

An authorized representative can represent you in interviews, audits, appeals, and tax collection disputes with the IRS and in court. Authorized representatives include attorneys, CPAs, enrolled agents, enrolled actuaries, or any other person who has submitted a written power of attorney to represent you. 

This information is not a substitute for individualized tax advice. Please discuss your specific tax issues with a qualified tax professional. 

Tip adapted from IRS.gov⁹

Strength Training for Any Age

Strength training benefits people of all ages, from children to older adults. According to the CDC, strength training at least twice per week can help you with the following:

• Build strength
• Maintain bone density
• Improve your balance, coordination, and mobility
• Reduce your risk of falling
• Maintain independence in performing daily activities

The best part is that starting is easy, and you don’t need a complex routine to enjoy these benefits. Some people begin with bodyweight exercises, such as pushups, sit-ups, and squats, to get a feel for these movements. 

You can incorporate weights into your routine once you feel comfortable with bodyweight exercises. Focus on functional movements, which are the everyday movements you perform. Practical strength training will make things like taking the stairs, carrying groceries, or doing chores easier. 

Always talk to your doctor before starting a new strength training routine.

Tip adapted from CDC.gov¹⁰

Glittering points that downward thrust. Sparkling spears that cannot rust. What are they?

Last Week's Riddle: What is located in the middle of nowhere?

Answer: The letter "H."

Amalfi Coast, Salerno, Italy

Stocks hit a rough patch last week as fresh labor market data, low consumer sentiment, and the ongoing government shutdown unnerved investors.

The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index declined 1.63 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index dropped 3.04 percent. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 1.21 percent. The MSCI EAFE Index, which tracks developed overseas stock markets, edged down 0.83 percent.^1,2

Nasdaq’s Toughest Week Since April

Stocks started the week mixed. The S&P 500 and Nasdaq each rose modestly, while the Dow Industrials fell.^3,4

Markets stabilized midweek after an ADP jobs report showed stronger-than-expected hiring by private employers in October. The report buoyed investor sentiment, pushing all three major averages higher.⁵

However, stocks fell as investor concerns over stock valuations persisted, particularly among companies related to AI. Following a well-known outplacement firm's report of a steep increase in corporate layoffs, selling pressure intensified as investors continued to react to data updates from alternative sources in the absence of official government data.

Stocks slid again on Friday after news that consumer sentiment hit its lowest level in three years. The survey data appeared to exacerbate investor nerves about the reading's connection to a fragile labor market and the impacts of the government shutdown.

But all three major averages then began a recovery rally midday Friday, with the S&P and Dow Industrials climbing back into the green and the Nasdaq regaining nearly all of its losses by the closing bell.⁶

Labor Market Paradox

Payroll processing company ADP’s monthly employment report has become a prominent alternative source for jobs data in the wake of the government shutdown. However, it doesn’t always tell the whole story.

ADP’s latest jobs report showed private employers hired at a much stronger pace than expected in October. U.S. companies added 42,000 jobs in October, nearly double the 22,000 new jobs economists expected. Given that 29,000 jobs went away in September, the October figure was welcome news for investors; it was also the first increase in three months. The bulk of the job gains came from the trade, transportation, utilities, education, and health sectors.⁷

Other data out last week told a different story. Another report showed layoff announcements in October hit a 22-year high for the month, making this year the worst for layoffs since 2009.^8,9

This Week: Key Economic Data

Tuesday: NFIB Small Business Optimism Index.

Wednesday:  Federal Reserve Presidents Anna Paulson (Philadelphia) and Raphael Bostic (Atlanta) speak.

Thursday: Weekly Jobless Claims.* Consumer Price Index (CPI).* Fed Presidents John Williams (New York), Alberto Musalem (St. Louis), Beth Hammack (Cleveland), and Raphael Bostic (Atlanta) speak. Federal Budget.

Friday: Retail Sales.* Producer Price Index (PPI).* Business Inventories.* Fed Presidents Jeff Schmid (Kansas City) and Lorie Logan (Dallas) speak.

^{* Data for these indicators may be delayed or altogether unavailable due to the government shutdown.}

^{Source: Investors Business Daily - Econoday economic calendar; November 7, 2025. The Econoday economic calendar lists upcoming U.S. economic data releases (including key economic indicators), Federal Reserve policy meetings, and speaking engagements of Federal Reserve officials. The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The forecasts or forward-looking statements are based on assumptions and may not materialize. The forecasts also are subject to revision.}

This Week: Companies Reporting Earnings

Monday: CoreWeave Inc. (CRWV), Barrick Mining Corporation (B)

Wednesday: Cisco Systems, Inc. (CSCO), Transdigm Group Incorporated (TDG), Manulife Financial Corp (MFC)

Thursday: The Walt Disney Company (DIS), Applied Materials, Inc. (AMAT), Brookfield Corporation (BN), NetEase, Inc. (NTES)

^{Source: Zacks, November 7, 2025. Companies mentioned are for informational purposes only. It should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of the securities. Investing involves risks, and investment decisions should be based on your own goals, time horizon, and tolerance for risk. The return and principal value of investments will fluctuate as market conditions change. When sold, investments may be worth more or less than their original cost. Companies may reschedule when they report earnings without notice.}

“Writing is thinking on paper.” 

– William Zinsser

How Qualified Charitable Distributions Can Help Manage Your Tax Burden

Generally, distributions from a traditional Individual Retirement Account are taxable in the year the account owner receives them. However, a qualified charitable distribution (QCD) is one exception to this rule. 

A QCD is a nontaxable distribution made directly by the trustee of an IRA to organizations that are eligible to receive tax-deductible contributions. Of course, the main benefit of giving to a charitable organization is making a difference. Yet, some tax benefits reward philanthropy. Making a QCD can help manage your taxable income while supporting qualifying charitable organizations. 

This information is not a substitute for individualized tax advice. Please discuss your specific tax issues with a qualified tax professional. 

Tip adapted from IRS¹⁰

What are Polyphenols?

If you’ve researched whole foods, you’ve likely come across the term “polyphenols.” But what are polyphenols, and why are they important? 

Polyphenols are a category of plant compounds that act as antioxidants, neutralizing harmful free radicals. Due to this, polyphenols may offer various health benefits, including boosting brain health and digestion, as well as protecting against heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers.

There are many sources of polyphenols, such as:

• Dark chocolate
• Tea
• Dark berries
• Apples
• Onions
• Red cabbage
• Whole grains
• Chili peppers
• Oats.
• Turmeric
• Flax seeds
• Sesame seeds

Several categories of polyphenols include flavonoids, phenolic acids, and polyphenolic amides. 

Tip adapted from WebMD¹¹

What is located in the middle of nowhere?

Last Week's Riddle: Stick your fingers in my eyes, then move them and watch my jaws open wide. What am I?

Answer: A pair of scissors.

Llaima Volcano, Conguillio National Park, Chile

Temuco, Araucania, Chile

Stocks rose last week as trade developments, positive Q3 corporate results, and momentum in megacap tech drove another rally, despite some cautious comments from the Fed.

The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index gained 0.71 percent, while the tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index picked up 2.24 percent. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 0.75 percent. By contrast, the MSCI EAFE Index, which tracks developed overseas stock markets, fell 0.55 percent.^1,2

Stocks Up for Third Straight Week

Stocks rose over the first half of the week on news that Chinese and U.S. officials were working on a trade deal. Meanwhile, a rise in AI-related tech names lifted the broader market ahead of the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) meeting. All three major averages notched record closing highs for the first two days of the week, including the S&P 500 closing above 6800 for the first time.^3,4

Stocks continued their rise Wednesday morning as the AI trade continued to fuel momentum. But markets wobbled following the FOMC’s decision to cut interest rates by a quarter percentage point. Chair Powell’s comments that the Fed may not adjust rates in December cut short the market's rally.^5,6

Stocks bounced out of the gate on Friday, with the Nasdaq leading gains for all three major averages as several megacap tech companies rallied on upbeat Q3 results and other corporate news.⁷

‘Not a Foregone Conclusion’

As widely expected, the Federal Reserve cut short-term interest rates by 0.25 percent. But as often happens for those trying to read the Fed tea leaves, it was the finer messaging points that moved the markets.

Fed Chair Jerome Powell said in his post-meeting press conference that another rate adjustment in December was “not a foregone conclusion.” He added that Fed policy is “not on a pre-set course.” Part of that, he said, was due to the ongoing government shutdown and the resulting dearth of economic data—and the challenge in setting monetary policy without ongoing reports.⁸

This Week: Key Economic Data

Monday: PMI Composite–Manufacturing. ISM Manufacturing. Construction Spending.* Auto Sales. Fed governor Lisa Cook speaks.

Tuesday:  Trade Deficit.* Factory Orders. Job Openings.

Wednesday:  ADP Employment Report. PMI Composite–Services. ISM Services.

Thursday:  Weekly Jobless Claims.* Productivity.* Wholesale Inventories.* Federal Reserve Officials speak: New York Fed President Williams, Philadelphia Fed President Paulson, St. Louis Fed President Musalem.

Friday:  Jobs Report.* Consumer Sentiment. Consumer Credit. Dallas Fed President Logan speaks.

^{* Data for these indicators may be delayed or altogether unavailable due to the government shutdown.}

^{Source: Investors Business Daily - Econoday economic calendar; October 31, 2025. The Econoday economic calendar lists upcoming U.S. economic data releases (including key economic indicators), Federal Reserve policy meetings, and speaking engagements of Federal Reserve officials. The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The forecasts or forward-looking statements are based on assumptions and may not materialize. The forecasts also are subject to revision.}

This Week: Companies Reporting Earnings

Monday: Palantir Technologies Inc. (PLTR), Vertex Pharmaceuticals Incorporated (VRTX)

Tuesday: Advanced Micro Devices, Inc. (AMD), Shopify Inc. (SHOP), Uber Technologies, Inc. (UBER), Arista Networks, Inc. (ANET), Amgen Inc. (AMGN), Pfizer Inc. (PFE), Spotify Technology (SPOT)

Wednesday: McDonald’s Corporation (MCD), AppLovin Corporation (APP), QUALCOMM Incorporated (QCOM), Robinhood Markets, Inc. (HOOD), DoorDash, Inc. (DASH), McKesson Corporation (MCK)

Thursday: ConocoPhillips (COP), Parker-Hannifin Corporation (PH)

Friday: Berkshire Hathaway Inc. (BRK.A / BRK.B), Constellation Energy Corporation (CEG), KKR & Co. Inc. (KKR), Duke Energy Corporation (DUK)

^{Source: Zacks, October 31, 2025. Companies mentioned are for informational purposes only. It should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of the securities. Investing involves risks, and investment decisions should be based on your own goals, time horizon, and tolerance for risk. The return and principal value of investments will fluctuate as market conditions change. When sold, investments may be worth more or less than their original cost. Companies may reschedule when they report earnings without notice.}

“Thinking about what you can't control only wastes energy and creates its own enemy.”

– Sandy Fries

The Two Types of IRS Volunteer Programs

Every year, IRS-certified volunteers help people file their tax returns. This volunteer opportunity is ideal for individuals seeking to expand their knowledge of tax preparation, earn continuing education credits, or contribute to their community. 

The IRS offers the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program and the Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) program. VITA offers free help to people earning $67,000 or less, people with disabilities, and limited English-speaking taxpayers. TCE is primarily for people aged 60 or older. Although the program focuses on tax issues unique to seniors, most taxpayers can get free assistance.

This information is not a substitute for individualized tax advice. Please discuss your specific tax issues with a qualified tax professional. 

Tip adapted from IRS⁹

4 Potential Benefits of Aloe Vera

Aloe vera is a remarkably robust plant. Not only is it safe to eat and used in many cosmetic products, but it also has many benefits that stem (pun intended) outside its typical uses. 

Here are four potential benefits of Aloe vera:

• One study found that Aloe vera is as effective as mouthwash at reducing plaque.
• Aloe vera flower and leaf extracts may have antioxidant properties.
• Aloe vera may help lower blood sugar levels for people with type 2 diabetes.
• Aloe may help with burn wounds. Patients with burn wounds treated with Aloe vera healed significantly quicker than those not treated with Aloe vera.

In addition to the above benefits, many people use Aloe vera to soothe sunburns, dry skin, and cuts. 

Tip adapted from Every Day Health¹⁰

Stick your fingers in my eyes, then move them and watch my jaws open wide. What am I?

Last Week's Riddle: If used in an emergency, I can help the hero – yet when you multiply all the numbers on my face, all you get is zero. What am I?

Answer: A phone.

Hermit Crab, Almería, Spain