By Ryan Casey Stephens, FPQP®
Special Contributor
With barely two months remaining in 2022, it’s nearly time to slow down to consider the people, places, and things we’re thankful for. I have a special affection for this season of changing leaves, great food with family, and shopping for the holidays.
The year isn’t finished, though, and with an uncertain midterm election this week and plenty of data and reports to go before Christmas, surprises might still be in store.
Let’s all consider a few notable thoughts as we kick off November with Three Things to Know.
Americans Head to The Ballot Box
It’s election week, and there are many campaigns across the nation that are too close to call. Elections can cause tremendous anxiety — a client of mine once terminated a purchase because he disliked the outcome of a presidential race, for example.
However, in nearly 90 percent of midterms since 1946, stocks were higher six months after the election than before. I like those odds, but that’s certainly no guarantee of hope when the two biggest factors affecting mortgage rates right now are independent of anyone running for office: inflation and the Fed’s outsized influence on monetary policy.
Powerball And Lotto Frenzy
Back in July, I penned a piece examining why lottery participation skyrockets during economic downturns. Right in line with the evidence in that Op-Ed, the Powerball has grown to a record $1.9 billion jackpot prize.
Winning that prize certainly won’t get you close to Texas’ richest person and recent Twitter owner Elon Musk. It could certainly make your life more exciting. The list of things $1 billion can buy includes a trip to space, King Tut’s golden death mask, and the Mona Lisa.
What’s the first purchase you’d make with your windfall?
Save the Bros!
It’s finally Movember – the annual occasion men use to grow out facial hair to hilarious lengths while claiming that it’s for a good cause. Life for men in this world can be challenging. We are more likely to go to war, die by suicide, work dangerous jobs, and catch a litany of diseases. My father passed away one year ago from ALS, a disease that affects more men than women by about 20 percent.
While 65 percent of real estate agents are women, 55 percent of loan officers are male. As you consider what you’re thankful for this month, spend some time reflecting on the men who’ve meant the most to you. And when you see someone with a rockin’ mustache, give that guy a high five. For all you fine gents working in real estate and finance, here’s to you.
Ryan Casey Stephens FPQP® is a mortgage banker with Watermark Capital. You can reach him at [email protected].
