Latest News From Keir

Inflation Check
Fed Chairman, Ben Bernanke is finding himself between a rock and hard place with the recent release of the July producer prices. The Producer Price Index (PPI) shot up 1.2% for the month, the highest in 27 years. The PPI is an index that tracks the wholesale prices of goods. It is watched by economists and is usually considered to be a harbinger of things to come for the CPI (Consumer Price Index).

Why Obtain the CFP® Certification, CLU® or ChFC® Designations?
You enhance your ability to serve clients, you broaden your career potential, and you gain recognition. When you add the CFP Certification, CLU or ChFC designations to your business card, you distinguish yourself from other members of the financial services profession.

FPA SURVEY OF MEMBERS
On March 31, 2008 the Financial Planning Association distributed a survey to 26,530 of its members to learn their opinions on various advocacy issues. The closing date for replies was April 11, 2008. Thanks to the ease of email, the FPA received 1,893 responses. In typical direct mail programs, a response rate of 1 to 2% is respectable. This survey can be proud of its 7% response rate.

Updates for the November 2008 CFP® Exam
The CFP® Certification Examination typically tests any laws that have been in place for six months or longer as of the exam date. As a result, candidates taking the November 2008 CFP® Exam will need to know that taxpayers can now claim up to $250,000 of Section 179 expense in 2008 (up from $128,000 for 2008 prior to the Economic Stimulus Act of 2008 signed into law on February 13, 2008).

Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac: Trouble in River City
In the Music Man, the sly traveling salesman Harold Hill told the citizens of River City that they had trouble and trouble began with “T” which rhymed with “P” and that stood for “pool.” Pools are in trouble again in River City.