OUR BLOG
October 2026
What the Midterm Election, Budget Deficit, and National Debt Mean for Investors
As the midterm election season unfolds, investors are keeping a close eye on the outcome due to the implications for Congressional control. Current forecasts suggest that a divided government is the most likely scenario, since Republicans hold slim majorities in both the House [...]
7 Ways to Tell If Your Financial Plan is Solid
In the ever-evolving financial world, having a solid financial plan is paramount. A plan is a financial blueprint that sets one on the path toward their financial goals. It also provides a plan that aims to help prepare for unexpected financial events. [...]
Inflation and Social Security COLA: Managing Purchasing Power
The annual Social Security cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) is one of the most important developments for retirees and consumers. Not only does it affect Social Security recipients directly since it determines the increase in benefits next year, but it also reflects the broader inflationary [...]
What Is a Pension and Why Don’t I Have One?
A pension is a type of retirement savings plan in which an employer sets aside funds for employees’ future income in retirement. This income is provided regularly, typically monthly. It’s a form of deferred compensation, meaning the benefits accrue over time, typically based [...]
The Bull Market Enters Its Fifth Year: Long-Term Perspectives
Four years ago, the S&P 500 reached its lowest level of the 2022 bear market in October. At the time, inflation was climbing at its fastest pace since the 1970s, the Federal Reserve was raising interest rates rapidly, and recession fears were widespread. [...]
What to Know About Medicare Open Enrollment
Every year, the Medicare Open Enrollment period, also known as the Annual Election Period (AEP), takes place from October 15th to December 7th. This period allows current Medicare beneficiaries to assess their healthcare needs and revise their coverage accordingly. These dates remain consistent [...]
U.S. Dollar Rebound: The Impact of Rising Rates and Government Debt
As interest rates have risen to multi-decade highs, one of the implications that has received less attention is the strengthening U.S. dollar. The dollar affects all aspects of financial markets, the economy, and everyday life. Its value impacts the cost of imported goods, [...]
Financial Planning Month: An Overview
Financial Planning Month is celebrated every year in October. It is designed to raise awareness about the importance of creating a comprehensive financial plan. Launched by financial professionals globally, this initiative aims to encourage individuals to pay closer attention to their financial health, [...]
Disclosure: This commentary reflects the personal opinions, viewpoints and analyses of the O’Donnell Financial Services, LLC employees providing such comments, and should not be regarded as a description of advisory services provided by O’Donnell Financial Services, LLC or performance returns of any O’Donnell Financial Services, LLC client. The views reflected in the commentary are subject to change at any time without notice. Nothing in this commentary constitutes investment advice, performance data or any recommendation that any particular security, portfolio of securities, transaction or investment strategy is suitable for any specific person. Any mention of a particular security and related performance data is not a recommendation to buy or sell that security. O’Donnell Financial Services, LLC manages its clients’ accounts using a variety of investment techniques and strategies, which are not necessarily discussed in the commentary. Investments in securities involve the risk of loss. Past performance is no guarantee of future results.
