Southwest Financial Advisory Group - Ed Thiessen CFP, CAP

06/01/2026

The White House announced that the Washington Monument will be illuminated as part of a multi-day display marking the start of America’s 250th anniversary celebration. The lighting will feature large-scale projection imagery highlighting moments from the nation’s history, including themes of discovery, independence, and innovation.

The monument illumination is described as the opening moment of a year-long series of national events leading up to the July 4, 2026 milestone. Officials said the displays are designed to serve as a shared visual marker of the country’s semiquincentennial, with additional public programming expected throughout the year.

The announcement signals the beginning of broader commemorations tied to one of the most significant anniversaries in U.S. history.



Source:
https://abcnews.go.com/Politics/white-house-announces-washington-monument-illumination-kick-off/story?id=128811820

The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. Some of this material was developed an...

05/08/2026

Stocks surged in April, delivering their strongest monthly gains in five years as solid economic data, easing geopolitical tensions, and upbeat first-quarter earnings lifted investor sentiment. The Nasdaq climbed 15.29%, the S&P 500 rose 10.42%, and the Dow gained 7.14%, while Canada’s S&P/TSX Composite added 3.65%. With no Fed meeting in May, attention turns to remarks from Fed officials and how evolving economic data may shape expectations moving forward. From \$34.1 billion in U.S. spending to the popularity of Mother’s Day dining and gifts, this month’s By the Numbers highlights how families celebrate the occasion.

Monthly Market Insights | May 2026 U.S. and Canadian Markets Stocks surged in April, notching their best month in five years as investors cheered upbeat economic news, efforts to lower tensions in the Middle East, and first-quarter results. The Nasdaq Composite rose an eye-catching 15.29 percent, wh...

04/07/2026

U.S. stocks slipped in Q1 as AI disruption fears and Middle East tensions rattled investors. The S&P 500 fell 4.63%, the Nasdaq dropped 7.11%, and the Dow lost 3.58% — though six of eleven S&P 500 sectors still finished in the green, led by Energy's standout 37.91% gain. As the weather warms up and spring gets us outside, it turns out Americans are right there with you — over 181 million U.S. residents participated in outdoor recreation in 2024. Check out this month's by-the-numbers for more on the outdoor recreation economy.

Quarterly Market Insights | April 2026 U.S. and Canadian Markets Stocks fell in the first quarter amid concerns that artificial intelligence (AI) could disrupt certain industries and geopolitical issues that unsettled investors. The Dow Jones Industrial Average lost 3.58 percent while the Standard &...

04/05/2026

It’s 10 days until Tax Day. A busy person like you might find themselves filing your taxes in the final stretch for many reasons. Don’t sweat it! Get your paperwork together, talk to your trusted tax professionals, and remember that filing for an extension is possible before April 15th!


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04/01/2026

A newly introduced tax deduction aimed at older Americans could reduce taxable income for millions of households.

Under the proposal, individuals age 65 and older could claim an additional $6,000 deduction on their federal taxes. Lawmakers say the measure is designed to provide relief for retirees facing rising living costs.

If enacted, the deduction could apply to both single filers and married couples who meet income requirements. Supporters argue that the change may help offset later-in-life expenses for housing, healthcare, and everyday costs.

Because the proposal is still moving through the legislative process, details, which include eligibility thresholds and how the deduction would be phased in, could still change.

Tax rules can be complex, so it may be helpful to review any updates with a qualified tax professional. I’m always happy to connect if that would be helpful.


Source:

A new tax deduction for senior citizens is kicking in this tax season, potentially providing bigger refunds to millions, the AARP says.

03/30/2026

It's easy to rush through the present while already thinking about what's next. Some of the most grounding moments come from simply pausing. Savoring a quiet evening, stepping back from a busy routine, or noticing how much you've grown.

Let's catch up and talk through how far you've come. 🌅

03/27/2026

You might be paying more in taxes than you need to—and not even realize it.

From investment timing to account selection, small decisions can have a big impact on your total tax bill. Here are five areas to keep in mind this tax season.

03/26/2026

A new claim about previously unknown works by Michelangelo is drawing attention among Renaissance scholars.

An independent researcher recently suggested that the famed Renaissance artist may have created a marble bust of Christ in a Roman church. The theory is based on archival documents tracing the ownership of artworks after Michelangelo’s death.

The claim has sparked debate among art historians. While some researchers say the documentation raises interesting questions, others note that new attributions require extensive academic review before they can be widely accepted.

Discussions like these are fairly common in art history, particularly when it comes to famous artists whose works have been widely copied, studied, and sometimes misattributed over the centuries.


Source:
https://talkwithed.com

An independent researcher has asserted that a marble bust of Christ in a Roman church is by Michelangelo.

03/05/2026

Stocks were mixed in February as AI disruption concerns and escalating geopolitical tensions weighed on investor sentiment. The S&P 500 slipped 0.87% and the Nasdaq fell 3.38%, while the Dow edged up 0.17%. Canada’s S&P/TSX advanced 7.57%. As attention turns to the Fed’s March meeting and its updated Summary of Economic Projections, markets will be watching closely for signals on the path ahead. From 73% of the world’s maple syrup produced in Canada to a \$1.64 billion global market, this month’s by-the-numbers highlights the industry behind one of North America’s most iconic products.

Monthly Market Insights | March 2026 U.S. and Canadian Markets U.S. stocks struggled in February amid fears that artificial intelligence would disrupt a wide swath of industries, unsettling investors. Late in the month, geopolitical concerns weighed on the market amid tensions in the Middle East. Th...

02/16/2026

Presidents’ Day! Originally a holiday celebrating the birth of George Washington, the first President of the United States, it has since become a holiday to mark all those who have served in the nation’s highest office. How will you spend the holiday weekend? A quick excursion with family or loved ones? A quiet break at home? However you are marking the holiday, here’s hoping you enjoy your Presidents’ Day!



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