The last 10 years have brought American investors the longest bull run in history. When volatility  descends upon us once again,  here are some brief pointers on how to "remain calm and carry on."

Researching a client's history the other day, I came across an email response I sent her in October 2002. This was at the low point of the dot com crash, and she was among many nervous clients seeking guidance. After reviewing her age, situation, and portfolio allocations, this is what I wrote her:  "Unless you have an immediate need for money, I would recommend that you sit it out. History confirms that selling after a gigantic dip in the markets is a bad idea. Tech will rise again. However, as to the exact timing of the rebound, I am unable to give you any specifics."  The Dow was at 7286 then and is over 26,500 as of this writing. This advice, with a bit of added nuance, is as on point now as it was then.

LPL Research writes, “Our favorite leading indicators are signaling that further economic growth and stock market gain may lie ahead..”

Key takeaways include:

LPL Research writes, “Earnings season delivered as expected. With 92% of results for S&P 500 Index companies in the books, first quarter 2019 earnings are tracking to roughly flat with the prior year [Figure 1].

LPL Research writes that “Stocks reached new highs last week. The S&P 500 Index completed a V-shaped recovery last week to register its first record high since September 20, 2018, to close at 2933.68 on April 23.  Here we share our thoughts on what this record could mean for stocks going forward.”

Key takeaways include:

Miami, FL — April 16, 2019 — Austin A. Frye, an independent LPL Financial advisor at Frye Financial Center in Aventura, today announced inclusion in LPL’s Chairman’s Council. This premier award is presented to fewer than 2% of the firm’s more than 16,000 financial advisors nationwide*.

LPL Research tells us that “First quarter earnings season kicks off this week and the bar seems low. Consensus estimates for first quarter earnings season are calling for a slight yearover-year decline in S&P 500 Index earnings amid the economic soft patch at the start of the year.

LPL Research says, “The NCAA Final Four is set. On the men’s side, Auburn, Michigan State, Texas Tech, and Virginia are headed to Minneapolis to determine this year’s college basketball national champion.

It’s only fitting, on National Pi Day!

LPL Research writes:  “The bull market will celebrate its tenth birthday on March 9, 2019. During that period, the S&P 500 Index has increased more than fourfold in value, producing a total return of 410% (17.7% annualized) while rising 314% in price.

A generous bird helped out with our company messaging this week… nest egg planning here!