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ECONOMIC UPDATE: COVID Resurgence Could Threaten Recovery

The United States set a somber record determine which risk-management strategy is on Thursday, July 16, 2020, with more right for you. than 75,000 new COVID-19 cases. In fact, the U.S. set new single-day COVID-19 Unemployment records 11 times between June 17 and July While new unemployment claims have de16. Dr. Anthony Fauci predicts the country clined since March, there are still more than will soon top over 100,000 new cases each double their level during the height of the day. Great Recession in 2009.

COVID-related deaths are also increasing in some states. Florida set its single day record for COVID deaths on July 16, with 156. Nine other states also set single-day death records the same week.

The resurgence in coronavirus cases has led some states to enact new measures. More than half of all states now have some kind of mask mandate. California has even rolled back its reopening, closing bars, indoor dining, gyms, and more.

What does this mean for the economic recovery? And what does it mean for your financial future? It’s impossible to predict what will happen in the short-term but knowing where things stand today may help you make important decisions with your strategy.

Stock Market

The stock market continues to rally in spite of the increasing COVID numbers and the return of restrictions. As of July 16, the S&P 500 is nearly back to even for the year. In fact, it’s up 43.71% since hitting a low 2237 on March 23. NASDAQ set a record-high on July 9 when it reached 10,617.

The continued gains are good news for investors, especially after the sharp decline in March. However, that decline also shows us just how quickly the market can turn, especially if state governments introduce new orders that close businesses.

If you’re concerned about another potential downturn or future risk, this could be the right time to explore risk-protection strategies. For example, products like annuities allow you to participate in a portion of the market upside but also protect you against losses. A financial professional can help you

Stimulus

In March, the government passed the CARES Act, which, among other things, provided direct stimulus payments to many Americans. A recent study found that 74% of recipients had used all of their stimulus payments within four weeks.

As the coronavirus pandemic continues to impact Americans, Congress is considering a second round of stimulus payments. In May, the House of Representatives passed the $3 trillion HEROES Act to provide a second round of direct stimulus payments.

In an interview in mid-July, Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin indicated that a second round of stimulus payments was a possibility, even if it doesn’t align exactly with the HEROES Act. Senate Leader Mitch McConnell and President Trump have also recently expressed their willingness to negotiate a second stimulus package.

While stimulus payments may provide a nice boost, they’re not a replacement for longterm strategy. At Diamond Retirement Strategies, we can help you analyze your needs and goals and implement strategies to limit your risk exposure. Let’s connect soon and start the conversation.

Michele Diamond Diamond Retirement Strategies www.DRStrategies.org 480-750-2999

Licensed Insurance Professional. Respond and learn how financial products, including life insurance and annuities can be used in various planning strategies for retirement. ARE-7172 - 119902-2020/3/11

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